The Versatility and Beauty of Fiberglass Spheres for Decor

The Versatility and Beauty of Fiberglass Spheres

Fiberglass spheres are unique decorative objects that can be used in a variety of applications to add visual interest to any space. Made from fiberglass and resin, these spheres are lightweight yet highly durable, making them a practical choice for both indoor and outdoor use.

What Are Fiberglass Spheres?

Fiberglass spheres are molded shapes composed of fiberglass fibers bonded with plastic resin. The fibers make the spheres strong and rigid, while the resin gives them a perfectly smooth exterior that can be painted or sanded. Spheres are hollow on the inside, so they are lightweight and easy to handle.

Fiberglass is valued for its high strength, low weight, weather and corrosion resistance, and versatility. This makes spheres suitable for many different purposes. They can be manufactured in almost any size, from just a couple inches across to massive shapes over six feet in diameter.

Decorative Uses for Fiberglass Spheres

One of the most popular decorative uses for fiberglass spheres is in water features. When partially submerged in a pond or fountain, spheres create striking focal points. The smooth rounded shapes contrast beautifully with the movement of water. Spheres come in many color options, including neutral earth tones, bold primaries, metallics, and more.

Spheres can be clustered in groups or combined with other decorative objects like river rocks and driftwood. Their sculptural forms make them ideal for modern and contemporary landscape designs. In home decor, smaller spheres can be used as display pieces on shelves, end tables, or windowsills.

Landscape Design with Spheres

Outdoors, fiberglass spheres add whimsical personality to gardens. They can be tucked into flowerbeds or clustered beneath trees. Larger sphere sculptures make dramatic standalone landscape features. Set on pedestals, columns, or stacked in towers, they become eye-catching focal points.

Spheres work well in rock gardens, succulent gardens, and Asian-inspired zen garden designs. Their rounded shapes and smooth textures contrast nicely with the jagged edges of stones and the soft spiky leaves of succulents. Paint spheres in bright colors to make them pop against green foliage.

Large Scale Architectural Spheres

On a grand architectural scale, giant fiberglass spheres are often used as eye-catching design elements. Their enormous size makes them function like sculptures. Spheres can be installed as stand-alone pieces or incorporated into the architecture itself.

Giant spheres are frequently used in public spaces to create landmarks and focal points. They may be placed in parks, near civic buildings, on college campuses, and in commercial developments. Illuminated from within, large spheres glow like jewels at night.

Small Decorative Spheres

On the smaller side, fiberglass spheres a few inches in diameter make charming decorative accents. Use a group of spheres in clear, frosted, or colored glass to decorate a vase of flowers or houseplant. The curved shapes complement the organic forms of plants and flowers.

Small spheres can be hung on fishing line for window or ceiling displays. Cluster various sizes and colors together for visual interest. Paint stripes or patterns on them to enhance their sculptural qualities.

Benefits of Fiberglass Spheres

There are many reasons fiberglass is a great material choice for spheres:

• Extremely durable - Fiberglass holds up well outdoors and resists cracking, chipping, and fading.
• Visually appealing - The smooth exterior looks like blown glass and can be painted or sanded.
• Customizable - Spheres can be made in limitless colors, sizes, and finishes.
• Low maintenance - Require little upkeep other than occasional cleaning.
• Lightweight - Weigh much less than concrete, metal, or stone sculptures.
• Easy to install - Lightweight yet strong, spheres are simple to place.

Where to Find Fiberglass Spheres

Fiberglass spheres can be purchased from specialty retailers that sell fountains, garden decor, and architectural accents. Many manufacturers also sell direct online and offer custom ordering services.

Look for reputable brands and read item descriptions carefully to understand a sphere's exact dimensions, weight, materials, and durability. Measure the intended display space and research safe installation techniques before purchasing.

With proper selection and placement, fiberglass spheres can make a lasting decorative impact both indoors and out. Their pleasing rounded shapes inject visual excitement into any environment.

FAQs

How are fiberglass spheres made?

Fiberglass spheres are made by spraying fiberglass fibers and resin into a mold. The fibers are arranged in different directions to provide strength while the resin binds them together.

What sizes are available?

Fiberglass spheres can be produced in almost any size, ranging from a couple inches in diameter up to massive architectural spheres over six feet across. Common sizes are 12", 18", 24", 36", 48", and 60".

How much do fiberglass spheres weigh?

Due to their fiberglass construction, spheres are lightweight for their size compared to glass, concrete, or stone. For example, a 18" diameter sphere weighs around 7 pounds. Larger six foot spheres may weigh over 100 pounds.

Can fiberglass spheres be used outdoors?

Yes, fiberglass spheres are highly durable and weather resistant. They can withstand sun, rain, snow, and temperature extremes. Their colors may fade over time from UV exposure.

How are spheres installed?

Fiberglass spheres are easy to install. Small spheres may simply sit on display surfaces. Larger spheres can be placed on stands or pedestals. For water features, partially submerge spheres by bolting to pond liners or placing in soft sand or stone beds.