This IKEA DIY Will Give Your Outdoor Space Such a Cozy Atmosphere

Written by

Olivia Harvey
Olivia Harvey
Olivia Harvey is a freelance writer and award-winning scriptwriter from outside Boston, Massachusetts. She’s a big fan of scented candles, getting dressed up, and the 2005 film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice starring Keira Knightley. You can make sure she’s doing okay via…read more
published Jun 20, 2024
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It’s true that candles and string lights can add warmth and ambiance to your porch or patio setup after the sunsets. But if you’re looking for something with a bit more pizzazz, I found just the thing. Instagram user E. Stübing made a DIY fire bowl using a stainless steel bowl from IKEA and, like me, you’ll want to save this post for later because it’s such an easy project that can make a huge impact.

Shared by the IKEA Hack Instagram account, Stübing’s fire bowl DIY requires just four items to bring together — a stainless steel bowl from IKEA, rocks, and an ethanol container (along with liquid ethanol).

“It’s super easy to make, looks great on the table, and creates a cozy atmosphere in the evening,” the IKEA Hack caption reads. “This is a must-have for the outdoor season!

Stübing picked up the BLANDA BLANK stainless steel serving bowl from her local IKEA. The 11-inch size retails for just under $7, but you can choose from one of four sizes to get the right look for your table. Stübing spray painted her bowl white to better match her aesthetic, but you can keep the bowl as it is.

As the IKEA Hack caption noted, never use a plastic bowl for this project because it will melt. Stainless steel or ceramic is the way to go.

Next, Stübing filled the bowl with heat-resistant rocks. You can find lava rocks and other fire pit-friendly rocks on Amazon, or you can even opt for glass stones, instead. 

Finally, Stübing added the ethanol container, which is the same kind of container used to heat chafing dishes on buffets. You can then fill the chamber with liquid ethanol, and you’re ready to go. 

“For safety, fill the combustion chamber only three-quarters full, never let the fire burn unattended, and never refill while the fire is burning,” the IKEA Hack caption reads. “Avoid using empty cans as combustion chambers due to safety concerns.”

You can find fire bowls for sale in various stores for well over $100. But with an IKEA bowl and some rocks, you can make one yourself for just a few bucks. This DIY is definitely on my summer to-do list, and I can hear the oohs and aahs already!