Step 3: Adding Internal Reinforcement

Inside the sphere, manufacturers add structural support.

This may include:

• Steel reinforcement
• Metal anchors
• Internal support systems

The reinforcement helps the bollard resist cracking or breaking when exposed to heavy force.

The finished sphere is extremely heavy—reports describe Target’s red balls as roughly two-ton concrete structures. (Allrecipes)

Step 4: Pouring the Concrete

Once the reinforcement is placed, concrete is poured into the mold.

The concrete mixture is carefully prepared to create a strong, dense structure.

The process usually involves:

1. Mixing cement, water, and aggregates
2. Filling the spherical mold
3. Removing air pockets
4. Allowing the concrete to cure and harden

The curing process is essential because concrete gains strength over time.

Step 5: Removing the Mold

After the concrete has fully hardened, workers remove the outer mold.

At this stage, the sphere is inspected for:

• Cracks
• Surface imperfections
• Structural problems

Any rough areas may be smoothed before finishing.

Step 6: Applying the Famous Red Finish

The final step is giving the sphere its signature Target-red appearance.

The surface is coated with a durable outdoor finish designed to withstand:

• Rain
• Sun exposure
• Temperature changes
• Everyday wear

The bright red color serves two purposes:

1. It matches Target’s branding.
2. It makes the barrier easy for drivers and pedestrians to see.

How Are the Red Balls Installed Outside the Store?

Installing these spheres requires careful planning.

Workers usually:

1. Prepare the sidewalk or concrete foundation.
2. Position the sphere in the correct location.
3. Secure it to the ground.
4. Ensure proper spacing between each bollard.

The placement is important because the barriers must protect the entrance while still allowing shoppers, carts, wheelchairs, and emergency access to move safely.

Why Didn’t Target Use Regular Metal Posts?

Traditional bollards are often simple metal cylinders or posts. Many businesses use them because they are functional and inexpensive.

Target chose a different approach by making them:

• Round
• Bright red
• Visually memorable

The design turned a safety feature into part of the shopping experience.

Over time, the spheres became a recognizable symbol of the brand. Some customers even began taking photos with them, and the trend became popular online through the hashtag #TargetBalling, where people created creative pictures with the red spheres. (Allrecipes)

Are People Allowed to Sit or Climb on Them?

Although many shoppers—especially children—treat the spheres like giant playground objects, they are not designed for playing.

The smooth curved surface can make climbing dangerous because someone can easily lose balance and fall. There have been reports of injuries and concerns related to people climbing or interacting with the bollards. (Allrecipes)

Their actual purpose is protection, not recreation.

The Clever Design Behind a Simple Object

The giant red spheres outside Target are a perfect example of how everyday objects can have hidden engineering behind them.

At first glance, they appear to be:

• A decoration
• A branding symbol
• A fun photo spot