This DIY indoor water fountain project is easy to make and adds a nice water feature element as a small tabletop fountain. All you need are a few elements to make this quick and easy DIY project.

Indoor fountains are so relaxing and pretty. I know Feng Shui talks about having a water element in the house but I just think it makes a beautiful decor piece.
Today I'm showing you how to make this super easy, very inexpensive indoor water fountain. The only thing that would make it better would be a switch on the electrical cord so that you could easily turn it on and off. I did find these remote control outlet switches online that would probably work great. However, that would no longer make this pretty little fountain super cheap. Still, it's an option.
This post contains some affiliate links (that means if you make a purchase after clicking a link, there's no additional cost to you, but I will earn a very small commission. ) i.e. as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Click here to read my full disclosure policy.
Sections At A Glance
Water Fountain Supplies
- Watertight bowl
- Small fountain pump
- This one is super cheap but it works.
- Decorative Rocks - crafts stores and the dollar store
- Remote control outlet switch (optional)
How to Make an Indoor Water Fountain
Step 1 - Arranging the water pump
Place the pump, especially the nozzle where you want the water to flow. I have mine off to the side but I think it would also look good in the middle.
Step 2 - Hide the pump and cord with decorative rocks
Arrange the decorative rocks all around the bowl. Stack them up around the pump and cord to hide them from view.
Step 3 - Add water to fill.
Add water to just cover the rocks. You need enough water to fill the pump; if it is a submersible pump it can even cover the pump.
Then plug in the water fountain and enjoy.
Step by Step Video
Here's a quick video showing you how to put it all together.
So simple, yet so beautiful. I think this would make a great gift.
More Easy Home Decor Projects:
Indoor Water Garden
Tabletop Oil Lantern
Succulent Birdcage Planter
How to Make an Indoor Water Fountain
Equipment
Materials
- Watertight bowl
- Small fountain pump - This one is super cheap but it works.
- Decorative Stones - crafts stores and the dollar store
- Remote control outlet switch optional
Instructions
- Place the pump, especially the nozzle where you want the water to flow. I have mine off to the side but I think it would also look good in the middle.
- Arrange the decorative rocks all around the bowl. Stack them up around the pump and cord to hide them from view.
- Add water to just cover the rocks. You need enough water to fill the pump; if it is a submersible pump it can even cover the pump.
- Then plug in the water fountain and enjoy it.
Mel
Can most pumps be left on constantly? Obviously,
Will monitor water level.
Patti Estep
Mel, yes in theory. I don't know how long they actually will last. Monitoring the water level as you said is key.
Ladin
Thanks for the tutorial. Is it safe and suitable enough to be used as a water fountain for cats to drink of?
Patti Estep
It would seem so but I'd check with your vet to be on the safe side.
Phil
Is there a lot of splash outside the bowl?
Patti Estep
Phil, I haven't noticed any splash. However, the manufacturer of the pump I used says that the flow rate is adjustable so I assume it would depend on how you set it.
Georgia Luz
Where did you get the white bowl for the waterfall fountain? Thank you.
Patti Estep
Georgia, I bought that bowl at an odd lots store but on the back it says Cravings by Chrissy Teigen stoneware. The bowl is 8 inches. I hope that helps.
Elinor
Hello!
I keep a pot of water at a low simmer on the stove but my apartment is still a bit dry & I do not want to buy a humidifier. (too unlikely I'd keep up with the filter changes! Plus, that's a lot of plastic after awhile!) Do you feel that the air is any less dry since you started running your water filter?
Thank you!
Patti Estep
Elinor, I never thought about the fountain offering humidity. The water does evaporate over time and needs to be refilled but it's pretty slow. Certainly not as much as a humidifier. I guess it does offer a little humidity into the room but I really haven't noticed.
Cassandra
Thank you for sharing, such a brilliant idea. I tried to make it too. so easy and simple. i wish i could share the picture with you.
Patti Estep
So glad you liked it Cassandra. I'm sure it's beautiful!
Ana
This is a lovely fountain! How deep is the bowl you used for this project?
Patti Estep
Ana, my bowl is about 3 inches deep.
Valda Meiers
What a Great idea - thanks for the share!
Patti Estep
Glad you like it Valda!
Linda Krenz
So beautiful! I've been wanting to incorporate some Feng Shui into my decor and this is a fantastic way to do it!
Susan M
LOVE this fountain. I'm definitely going to make something like this in my backyard! So less expensive than what you can buy!
Loren
I love water fountains, the sound of the water is so soothing. I didn't know that they are so easy to make, I may try it.
Patti Estep
Thanks Loren, I hope you get a chance to make one.
Carole West
Seriously it's that easy? well something to think about after my seed starters head outdoors. I have this one area where I can do something fun so I've been changing it out and when I transplant seedlings this may be a fun option. I've had a huge break from diy projects and think I'm ready to dive back in.
Patti Estep
Yes, it's that easy. I hope you try it soon and let me know what you come up with.
Deana Landers
I love the thought of having a water garden in my home. What a great idea! Thank you for this .
Patti Estep
Thanks Deana, I'm so glad that you like it.
Hope
Have you figured out how often you need to clean everything out so it stays hygienic? Just wondering before I make one!
Patti Estep
Hope, I have not noticed too much of a problem. After a while, you will notice that the water level is low due to normal evaporation. That's a good time to change the water. You can use distilled water if you are concerned as it won't cause any potential calcium or lime buildup. Also, vinegar is a good cleaning agent. You can put some in the fountain and let it run for an hour or so. All in all, it's pretty easy to remove the pump and rocks to clean since it's so small and basic.
Michelle Leslie
I love water features in all shapes and sizes, but I never even thought about making one for our indoor space. So clever Patti. Thanks so much for the inspiration.
Patti Estep
Thanks Michelle. Simple but sometimes those are the best, right?