Indoor Fountains

Rock Fountain

Materials:

battery-operated pump with 1/4" tubing
river rocks
shallow bowl (2 to 3" deep)
broken tile
small terra-cotta pot

Steps:

1. The most expensive element is the water pump (figure A), which is available for about $25 at craft stores. Look for the micro pump that is battery operated, so no cord will show. You will need 1/4-inch tubing (some kits come with 1/2-inch, so be sure to check). If none is available at the craft store, check aquarium-supply stores.

2. Layer rocks (try river rocks that are smooth and flat; available at craft and floral stores) on the bottom of the shallow bowl.

3. Position the pump on the rocks.

4. Set a piece of broken tile over the pump to hide it.

5. Set more rocks on top of the tile and add another piece of tile.

Materials:

decorative colored glass
shallow bowl, (2 to 3" deep)
battery-operated micro pump, with 1/4" tubing
large candlestick
iron candleholder
teapot
plastic ivy
cups and saucers
museum glue
flowers, optional

Steps:

1. Place decorative colored glass in a small area on the bottom of the dish. Set the pump on top of the glass.

2. Turn the candlestick upside down over the pump. This will hide the pump and act as a stand for the teapot.

3. Set the teapot on the stand and feed the tube, covered with plastic ivy for camouflage, if desired, into the pot.

4. Set cups and saucers in the bowl and add water to the dish. Arrange the pot and dishes so it looks like the pot is pouring water into the cups. Secure with museum glue.

5. Add flowers of your choice into the teacups, if desired.