Hi friends,

We’re bringing you a fun, circus/carnival-themed prop, perfect for your parties, photo booths, and costumes. It’s lightweight, mostly made from Dollar Tree items, and not hard to make.

My family and I attended an anniversary party celebrating a 24-year milestone this weekend. The event was carnival themed, with carnival touches throughout, and a photo booth. I got to make the barbell for the event and then enjoyed watching the other guests lift it with huge smiles. With all that fun, we had to share it with you! Check out our strongman barbell below.

*Click on photos for a closer look

What You'll Need

Broom Handle
Serrated Knife
(2) Beach Balls
(2) Dowels or Twigs
Electrical Tape & Duct Tape
String
Scissors
Black Matte Spray Paint
White Craft Paint & Brush

The Steps

BROOM HANDLE

Remove the cap from the top and carefully slice off the swivel end with the knife.
Use a bit of electrical tape to cover the raw edges.

3. Blow up both balls, plug each one, and then tie a long string to each one. Make sure the string is longer than the length of the broom handle.

4. Tie a dowel/twig at the end of each string and slide through the hollow broom handle to the other end. Repeat with the other ball, sliding the dowel down the handle in the opposite direction. Carefully remove the dowel from one string and tie the string to the ball as close to the handle as possible, repeat with the other dowel/string. Each string end will be tied to the opposite ball.

TAPE

Use electrical tape to connect the base of each ball to the handle (I might have overdone it =) ).
Stabilize the ball with a few wraps around the ball with electrical tape first(optional), and then use the duct tape. Make sure to wrap some duct tape around the base of the handle too.

PAINT

Use the black spray paint in a well-ventilated area and cover everything well.
Let the barbell dry for 15 minutes and then use the white paint and brush to add your weight of choice and lbs on both balls. Let it dry another 10 minutes.
That’s it!