Dreams are coming true today—well, sort of. I’m not handing out cars, but I am showing you how to customize your current ride with a fun, quirky DIY hood ornament. Whether you’ve secretly imagined a disco ball atop your hood or just want a playful statement piece, this project is an easy way to add personality to your car.
Autotrader asked me to create a hood ornament that makes readers feel drivetastic, and I jumped at the chance. What better way to celebrate car pride than with a little hood bling? (Bonus: there’s a chance to win one—details below.)
This project was also the perfect excuse to stuff a car with balloons and take silly photos. If you enjoy playful projects and unexpected decorations, read on.
If the word “drivetastic” makes you roll your eyes, you’re not alone. Car shopping can be stressful, and Autotrader aims to make it easier. They’re a car marketplace focused on convenience: search by specific features, set up phone alerts for listings you want, and narrow your search without hopping between dealerships. For anyone who wants a simpler car-buying experience, that’s a useful alternative to spending weekends running around looking for the right match.
Supplies:
- Super magnets or rare earth magnets*
- Strong adhesive such as E6000
- A lightweight object with a flat bottom** (pineapple cup, toy burger, small disco ball, gumball machine, etc.)
*To protect your paint, place a small piece of felt between the magnet and the car. A properly chosen magnet will still hold firmly through the felt. For a temporary prank, removable putty or clay is another option.
**Choose objects that are light, sturdy, and have a smooth, flat surface on the bottom so the magnet adheres securely.
How to make your hood ornament:
- Clean the bottom of the object so the glue will bond well.
- Apply a generous amount of strong adhesive to the magnet and press it onto the flat bottom of your chosen object. Hold it steady until the glue sets enough to keep the pieces in place.
- Allow the glued magnet and object to dry completely according to the adhesive manufacturer’s instructions.
- Place a small piece of felt on the hood where you’ll attach the ornament if you’re concerned about scratching. Press the ornament in place so the magnet secures it to the car.
This project is simple, quick, and flexible. The resulting ornament won’t be a permanent fixture or a safety device, but it’s perfect for special occasions: birthdays, graduations, tailgates, pranks, or any time you want your car to steal the show for a little while. Just be mindful of local laws and safety—remove the ornament before driving at high speeds or long distances and always ensure it’s secure before transporting.
Photos by Jeff Mindell | Styling + Creative Direction by Kelly Mindell
I want to know—what would you put on your car’s hood? If you’d like a chance to win a custom hood ornament, Autotrader ran a #DrivetasticSweepstakes on their social channels. Check Autotrader’s profiles for details if the sweepstakes is still active in your area. Entries have typically involved following their accounts and tagging your entry with the hashtag to participate.
This post was sponsored by Autotrader. All opinions are my own.