Stress doesn’t wait for an invitation—it shows up unannounced and overstays its welcome. A simple, tactile way to kick it out of your day is by using a stress ball. While store-bought ones do the trick, handmade stress balls offer a personal touch and often work even better. You get to pick the colors, the fillings, and the texture, customizing your squishy companion to fit your exact needs.
With just a few household items, you can turn an ordinary afternoon into a relaxing, creative session. Balloons, flour, rice, water beads, or even slime—each option offers a different feel and sensory experience. Kids enjoy them, adults rely on them, and they make fun little gifts that say, “Take a breather.”
No craft degree required—just a pinch of curiosity and a few minutes to spare. Some ideas add a touch of humor, others focus on soothing textures or bright visuals. The result? A satisfying squeeze that melts away tension.
Ready to ditch stress with a hands-on approach that actually feels fun? This guide serves up unique, easy-to-make stress ball ideas designed to calm your nerves and spark some joy. Let’s get squishing.
Stress balls help reduce tension and keep your hands busy. Making them at home is easy and fun. You can use simple items found around the house. Try these 10 creative stress ball ideas. Each one brings a unique feel, texture, or style.
1. Balloon and Flour Stress Ball
This is the most common type. It feels soft and smooth. It’s great for squeezing while watching TV or sitting at a desk.
What you need:
Balloon
Flour
Funnel or paper cone
Spoon
Steps:
Place the funnel in the balloon’s opening.
Spoon flour into the funnel until the balloon is full.
Tie the balloon tightly.
Trim the end if needed.
You can double wrap it with another balloon for extra strength.
2. Balloon and Rice Stress Ball
Rice gives a grainy texture. It’s firmer than flour but still soft enough to squeeze.
What you need:
Balloon
Dry rice
Funnel
Spoon
Steps:
Use the funnel to fill the balloon with rice.
Fill until it feels firm.
Tie it off.
Cover with a second balloon if you want more durability.
This type makes a soft rustling sound too.
3. Balloon and Cornstarch Stress Ball
Cornstarch gives a super soft, slow-squeeze feeling. It feels light but dense.
What you need:
Balloon
Cornstarch
Funnel
Steps:
Fill the balloon with cornstarch using the funnel.
Don’t overfill. It should be squishy.
Tie the balloon tightly.
Add a second balloon if needed. Avoid getting water in it.
4. Slime-Filled Stress Ball
Slime inside the balloon makes it very stretchy and squishy. It’s fun to play with.
What you need:
Balloon
Homemade or store-bought slime
Funnel or bottle with a narrow neck
Steps:
Put slime in the funnel or bottle.
Stretch the balloon over the top.
Squeeze the slime into the balloon.
Tie it off.
The balloon should feel jiggly and smooth.
5. Water Beads Stress Ball
Water beads give a cool, bumpy texture. It’s very relaxing to squeeze.
What you need:
Balloon
Water beads (pre-soaked)
Funnel
Steps:
Soak water beads in water overnight.
Use the funnel to add them into the balloon.
Tie the balloon tightly.
These stress balls look colorful and feel bouncy.
6. Orbeez and Gel Stress Ball
Orbeez with gel gives a soothing and firm grip. It feels like a mini massage in your hand.
What you need:
Balloon
Orbeez
Aloe vera gel or hair gel
Funnel
Steps:
Put Orbeez in the balloon.
Add gel slowly.
Push air out before tying.
This combo feels smooth and squishy with a cooling touch.
7. Baking Soda and Conditioner Ball
This mix forms a soft dough-like texture. Easy to make and smells nice too.
What you need:
Balloon
Baking soda
Hair conditioner
Spoon
Steps:
Mix baking soda and conditioner until dough forms.
Roll it into a ball.
Push it into a balloon.
Tie it off.
It feels like soft clay but stays inside the balloon.
8. Play Dough Stress Ball
This one is great for young kids. It’s soft, moldable, and fun to shape.
What you need:
Balloon
Play dough
Steps:
Roll the dough into a log.
Stretch the balloon over it.
Push the dough inside.
Tie the balloon.
You can use store-bought or homemade dough.
9. Sponge Stress Ball
Simple and reusable. Easy to clean too.
What you need:
Clean sponge
Balloon (optional)
Scissors
Steps:
Cut the sponge to fit your hand.
Wet it slightly if you want more softness.
You can cover it with a balloon or just use as is.
No mess and ready in seconds.
10. Rice Sock Stress Ball
No balloons needed. Good for quick stress relief at home.
What you need:
Clean sock
Dry rice
String or rubber band
Steps:
Pour rice into the sock.
Fill until it feels full but squeezable.
Tie with string or rubber band.
Use soft socks for a better feel. Great for desks or bags.
FAQs
Can I use other fillers like beans or sand? Yes, dry beans, sand, or lentils work too. Each gives a different texture.
How long do DIY stress balls last? They last a few weeks to months. Using double balloons helps.
Is it safe for kids? Yes, but adult supervision is best. Some materials are choking hazards.
Can I freeze stress balls? Yes. Freezing gives a cool feeling but may shorten their life.
What if the balloon pops? Clean up the filler and make another. Double wrapping prevents this.
Conclusion
DIY stress balls are easy and fun to make. You only need basic tools and simple fillers. Try different types to see which one feels best. These stress balls help with focus, tension, and restlessness. Whether for school, work, or home, they offer calm in your hand. Start with one idea and enjoy the process. It’s relaxing, just like the stress ball itself.
