This Hardware-Store Lighting Hack Looks Seriously Expensive (but Will Only Cost You $25!)
I do not say this lightly (pun intended), but out of all the social media DIYs I’ve tried, this one is the literal best. Alexander Johnson created this amazing light using just two store-bought items, and the minute it came across my feed I knew I had to try it.
Mood lighting can make such a huge difference in your home (where are my fellow “no overhead light” peeps at?), and this inexpensive hack can be made using just a few simple items from your local hardware store. It’s a great way to score a standout piece without spending too much. Although the finished product has a mid-century vibe reminiscent of a Noguchi piece, I think it can fit in with many different design styles. It looks great on a table, on the floor, or even as a pendant. Here’s what you need to make your own.
Supplies
- 8’ white vinyl duct (be sure that it is not lined)
- Warm white LED cord light
- Hot glue gun or binder clips
Surprisingly, the most difficult part of this entire process was tracking down the correct duct. The big-box stores near me (surprisingly) didn’t carry it, and my second attempt was foiled when I accidentally ordered an aluminum-lined duct on Amazon. Finally, I found exactly what I was looking for at the hardware store down the street — ACE was the place!
Once you have everything you need, expand the duct, feed the LED strip through to the other end, and experiment with your desired shape. I found a simple rounded donut to be easy, but I loved the visual interest of a “knot” even more. To finish the piece and secure the shape, bring the two open ends together using a binder clip. If you want the shape to be permanent, you can close it using hot glue.
Because it’s illuminated with an LED strip, the light won’t get hot, so you don’t have to worry about the vinyl melting from heat. The total cost for this piece came in right at $25, which I think is a steal when you consider how elevated it looks. I highly recommend trying this easy DIY — two (or even three) around your house will make a big statement!