17 DIY Water Fountain Ideas That Will Save You Major Time and Money
Add a soothing water structure to your backyard without breaking the bank.
Want to add a unique element to your backyard? Try a one-of-a-kind DIY water fountain! Water fountains have been a common feature in gardens of varying sizes since ancient times. The earliest account on record was a carved stone basin that dates back to around 2000 B.C. Most of the early versions of fountains were gravity based and relied on the natural flow of water from sources like rivers, lakes, and sometimes manmade aqueducts with basins to collect the water. At the time, modern plumbing and running water from faucets were not in existence.
Water was simply collected with buckets for a variety of essential purposes. People used these vessels out of necessity for drinking water, bathing, washing garments, and even faith-based ceremonies. However, ancients Romans started the trend of using fountains for decorative purposes in well-known places like Rome—the city of fountains. These days ornamental water fountains are commonly found in many locations like small home gardens and large public spaces.
You probably won't have room in your budget or backyard for fountain like the famous Italian Fontana di Trevi Fountain but we have plenty of pretty and budget-friendly DIY options for you to explore! From a charming fountain made from flower pots to a water wall that rivals store-bought renditions, these easy and unique projects will reinvigorate your garden like nothing else. Plus, check out more of our best backyard decorating ideas that will be sure to wow your guests during summer soirées.
Mixed Metal Water Fountain
Turn your fountain into a major outdoor focal point with the help of a few galvanized materials and greenery. Don't forget the matching watering can for the finishing touch.
Get the tutorial at Rustic and Refined.
Plant Pot Water Fountain
Clocking in only 15 minutes of prep time, this DIY flower pot fountain project is too good to pass up for your own backyard.
Get the tutorial at The Interior Frugalista.
Galvanized Bucket Solar Fountain
This DIY is one of our favorite uses for a leftover galvanized tub, especially given its easy transportation factor.
Get the tutorial at A Piece of Rainbow.
Bubbling Water Fountain
Have an old globe lying around? You're all set with the perfect base for this tasteful round water feature that incorporates a solar water pump kit and concrete/mortar Quikrete mix.
Get the tutorial at At Charlotte's House.
Tiered Flower Pot Fountain
Using some pots from Lowe's, a budget water pump, and some rocks from around her yard, blogger Katie created this simple, relaxing water fountain for her garden that birds can't get enough of.
Get the tutorial at Addicted 2 DIY.
Tiny Egg Fountain
This miniature fountain makes a perfect addition to a small deck and takes just 15 minutes to make with a small water pump.
Get the tutorial at Today's Creative Life.
Patio Water Wall
This massive fountain won't come together quickly, but it's well worth the time and effort. Blogger Marie moved her water wall onto her deck so company could enjoy the relaxing sound of water while they chatted.
Get the tutorial at Interior Frugalista.
Blue Planters Waterfall
Let your fountain add a pop of color to your garden! This royal blue waterfall was crafted with three giant planter pots and a mini pond pump.
Get the tutorial at J. Paris Designs.
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Disappearing Water Fountain
If you love the gushing sound of a fountain but are less crazy about having an open pool of water in your yard (especially if you have children), this decorative rock fountain may be for you. Requiring easy-to-find materials, this fountain will cost you less than $200.
Get the tutorial at Instructables.
Three-Tier Fountain
This fountain looks fancy, but you can make it yourself using cheap items from a thrift shop. Depending on what found items you use, your fountain will have its own unique look.
Get the tutorial at Instructables.
Charming Water Feature
As seen on Hometalk, this spring-inspired water feature will add tons of curb appeal to your home.
Get the tutorial at Birdz of a Feather.
Tea Pot Fountain
Add a piece of DIY decor to your garden or backyard with this fountain made from an iron tea pot and an old whiskey barrel.
Get the tutorial at Hometalk.
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Recirculating Ceramic Pot Fountain
The sound of babbling water from this recirculating fountain fashioned from a submersible pump will instantly create a more relaxing atmosphere in your outdoor space.
Get the tutorial at Tatertots & Jello.
Circular Water Wall
Turn a recycled table top into a beautiful water wall for your garden.
Get the tutorial at Central Texas Gardener.
Rock Fountain
This DIY with a submersible pump might take you a couple of days to finish, but the finished product—look at those stacked stones!—will be worth the effort.
Get the tutorial at Instructables.
Watering Can Fountain
This cool-looking fountain made from recycled watering cans and a wash bin is the perfect addition to a country garden.
Get the tutorial at Sophisticated Junkie.
Bamboo Fountain
This bamboo fountain can add little bit of zen to your backyard or porch.
Get the tutorial at Saf Affect.
Madison Alcedo was the Assistant Editor at WomansDay.com and Redbookmag.com.
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