Easy lighting DIY you can do without an electrician

If you’re a DIY enthusiast, you understand how rewarding it can be to complete a home project without professional help. Here at Light Supplier, we want to help you make that happen. 

That is why we have compiled a list of easy DIY lighting projects for your home. Lighting can transform any interior space. Nothing is better than upgrading your home to suit your style and taking pride in your work. 

If you’re ready to throw out your old lamps from 30 years ago and get creative, stick with us for the best easy home upgrades. 

Safety First

Before you begin any project, it is necessary to read an instruction manual and purchase PPE such as safety glasses, gloves, and footwear. You want to be protected from any debris or sharp objects that could cause an injury and cut your project short.

When you’re ready to start any electrical work, ensure all the wires and cables are in good condition and always turn off the electricity supply to the voltage you’re working on. This will prevent any electrical shocks or trips to the hospital!

Ensure all wire connections are properly insulated with wire nuts and electrical tape. Work under an overhead light for efficient task visibility and keep electrical circuits away from water-prone areas.

Types of DIY lighting projects

There are various lighting projects to choose from that require little skill or laborious work. All of the materials can be found at an arts and crafts store. Take a look at our strip lights to use for your project and browse the options below to choose the best fit for your home.

Fairy Lights

1. Plan Your Design

• You can get as creative or simple with this as you want. You could draw out a mushroom design, a bead design, etc. 
• Plan according to the space you are adding them to.

2. Gather Materials

• LED string lights (battery-operated or plug-in)
• Mason jars, wine bottles, or any transparent container
• Decorative items (ribbons, lace, beads, etc.)
• Scissors
• Glue gun or strong adhesive
• Measuring tape

3. Cut and insert the lights

• Measure and cut the length of the string to fit inside your container.
• Place the lights inside the container and position them.
• If not, place the lights around a wall or a feature such as a mirror or photo frame. You can use adhesive tape to keep them in place.
• This is where you can add any decorative pieces. 

LED strip lights

1. Gather materials

• LED strip lights (with adhesive backing)
• Power supply and connectors (usually included in LED strip kits)
• Extension cables 
• Mounting brackets (optional)
• Scissors, measuring tape and a screwdriver

2. Plan Your Layout and measure the area

• Consider corners, under cabinets, or around frames to place your lights. 
• Use a measuring tape to measure the length of the area where you want to install the lights.

3. Unroll and cut the LED Strip

• Lay it out along the area where you plan to install it, and cut it to fit. 

4. Add the strip to the area

• Peel off the adhesive backing and stick it to the surface. 
• Use mounting brackets if the surface is uneven. Screw these in evenly along the strip and connect the LED strip to a power source.

Mason Jar Lamps

1. Gather materials

• Mason jars with lids
• Battery-operated LED string lights or fairy lights
• Batteries for the lights (usually AA or AAA)
• Decorative items (ribbons, lace, or small ornaments)
• Hole punch or drill
• Glue gun or adhesive
• Scissors
• Measuring tape

2. Plan your design and prepare the jars

• Decide how many jars you'll need and where to place them.
• Clean the mason jars, removing any stickers and dust.

3. Make a hole in the lid

• Using a hole punch or drill, place a hole in the middle of the jar if you wish to run the LED string through it.
• Place the string lights inside, securing them into place with adhesive. 

4. Secure the battery pack

• Use a glue gun or adhesive to secure the battery pack somewhere accessible inside the jar for future use.
• This is when you can add decorations to the jars for some character. 

Pendant lights

1. Gather materials

• Light bulb socket with cord
• Light bulb 
• Pendant light shade or fixture
• Ceiling hook or mounting bracket
• Electrical wire connectors 
• Decorative elements like (beads, fabric, or paint)
• Screwdriver and wire strippers
• Measuring tape
• Drill

2. Plan the installation

• Decide where to hang your pendant light and use a measuring tape and pencil to mark the spot.
• Use a drill to create a hole and screw in the ceiling hook in this spot or attach the mounting bracket.
• Assemble your light socket and cord if necessary. 

3. Attach the pendant shade and wire the socket

• Securely attach the fixture to the light socket.
• Strip 1/2 inch of insulation from the end of each wire on the light socket cord.
• Use the wire connectors to connect the socket's wires to your home's electrical wires. 

The black dots connect to black (hot), white connects to white (neutral), and green connects to the ground.

• Tuck any connected wires into the ceiling so they’re out of view.

4. Hang the light

• Hang the light socket cord onto the hook and adjust it if needed.
• Add any decorative elements and screw in the light bulb.

Browse Light Supplier's light bulbs and strips!

Take a look at our selection of light bulbs and strips to assist you with your DIY lighting projects. All of our products are durable and cost-efficient, perfect for every home.

Transform your home today, and let your creative side shine with these home projects. Visit our website and contact us today to learn more about our products! We’re here for you.