It's true that candles and string lights can add warmth and ambiance to your porch or patio after the sun goes down, but if you're looking for something a little more fancier, we've got just what you need: Instagram user E. Stübing created a DIY fire bowl using a stainless steel bowl from IKEA. Like me, you'll want to save this post for later because it's such an easy project with a big impact.
Shared on the IKEA Hack Instagram account, Stübing's DIY fire bowl requires just four items: a stainless steel bowl from IKEA, stones, and a container of ethanol (and some liquid ethanol).
“Super easy to make, looks great on a table, and creates a cozy atmosphere in the evenings,” the IKEA Hack caption reads. “A must-have for the outdoor season!”
Stübing purchased the BLANDA BLANK stainless steel serving bowls at her local IKEA. The 11-inch size retails for just under $7, but you can choose from four different sizes to perfectly fit your table. Stübing spray painted the bowls white to match her aesthetic, but you can leave them as is.
As the IKEA Hack caption states, never use a plastic bowl for this project, as it will melt. Stainless steel or ceramic are best.
Next, Stübing filled the bowl with heat-resistant stones. You can find lava stones and other stones suitable for fire pits on Amazon, but you can also opt for glass stones.
Finally, Stubing added an ethanol container — the same kind of container used to heat chafing dishes at buffets — and then he fills the container with liquid ethanol and is ready to go.
“For safety, only fill the combustion chamber three-quarters full with fuel. Do not leave the fire unattended and do not refill the fuel while the fire is burning,” the IKEA Hack caption reads. “Due to safety concerns, please avoid using empty cans as combustion chambers.”
Fire bowls sell for over $100 in many stores, but with a bowl and some rocks from IKEA, you can make your own for just a few dollars. This DIY is definitely on my summer to-do list. ah and ah already!