Transform old, bald car tires into a breathtaking shimmering mosaic water fountain for your backyard. This DIY project not only upcycles unused materials but adds a unique and artistic element to your outdoor space. The reflective mirror pieces catch sunlight beautifully, creating a mesmerizing display that can enhance any garden or patio area.
Place your DIY shimmering mosaic fountain in a central spot in your backyard, such as near a garden path or patio area, where it can be admired from different angles. Pair it with lush greenery or colorful flowers to enhance its reflective sparkle. Consider adding solar-powered lights around the base for a magical ambience at night.
Shimmering Mosaic Tire Fountain
Materials
3 bald car tires
Shattered reflective mirror pieces (approximately 3 square feet)
Strong adhesive suitable for outdoor use
Water pump for fountains (submersible, with at least 100 GPH)
Plastic liner or waterproof sealant
Outdoor-safe paint (optional, for tire base color)
Fountain basin or large waterproof container (to hold water)
Directions
Clean the car tires thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
Paint the tires with outdoor-safe paint if you wish to change their color. Allow the paint to dry completely.
Apply the strong adhesive to the outer surfaces of the tires and carefully press the shattered mirror pieces onto the adhesive, covering the tires entirely. Allow the adhesive to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Stack the three tires on top of each other securely. Use additional adhesive if needed to ensure they are stable.
Place the water pump inside the bottom tire, ensuring the power cord can reach your power source.
Line the inside of the tires with a plastic liner or apply waterproof sealant to prevent any water leakage.
Fill the tires with water and connect the water pump to your power source. Adjust the pump settings for desired water flow.
Place the tire fountain in your desired outdoor location, making sure it is level and stable.
Variations & Tips
For a different aesthetic, consider using colored glass or ceramic tile pieces instead of mirror shards to achieve a more vibrant or thematic look. You could also experiment with the height of the fountain by using fewer or more tires, depending on your space and design preference. Adding LED strip lights inside the tires can enhance the fountain’s visual impact during the evening.
