Are you tired of looking at your plain and unattractive strip light? Do you want to add a touch of style and elegance to your room without spending a fortune? Then, covering your strip light is the perfect solution for you!
Sometimes, lighting a room can be tricky, and you may need extra help getting the perfect look. Strip lights are extremely versatile, allowing you to light up an entire area easily. But if you want to conceal your strip light instead of exposing it for everyone to see, covering it up might be needed.
In this blog post, we’ll show you how to cover a strip light and get the exact look needed for any space! Find out all the tips and tricks on how to do so here!
What Will You Need?
Before we start, let’s gather all the necessary materials that you’ll need to cover your strip light:
- Fabric or paper of your choice
- Double-sided tape or adhesive
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
Now that we have everything, let’s dive into covering a strip light.
8 Easy Steps on How to Cover a Strip Light
Step 1. Measure Your Strip Light:
The first step is to take your measuring tape and measure the length and width of the strip light you want to cover. Jot down these measurements as they will be crucial in the following steps. If your strip light has connecting wires, measure those as well.
Step 2. Choose Your Material:
Next, choose the fabric or paper with which you want to cover your strip light. It’s best to go for a material that is lightweight and not too thick so that it won’t affect the lighting. Some suggestions include sheer fabric, tissue paper, or even decorative paper.
Step 3. Cut Your Material:
Now, lay your chosen material on a flat surface, and with the help of a pencil and a ruler, mark the measurements you took in step 1. Once marked, cut your material carefully, ensuring the lines are as straight as possible. This piece will be used to cover your strip light. Remember, cutting slightly more than needed is always better, as you can always trim off the excess later.
Step 4. Attach the Material:
Now, take your double-sided tape or adhesive and apply it along the edges of the strip light. Once that is done, align your fabric or paper with the strip light, ensuring it covers the light completely. Press down gently but firmly to ensure that the material sticks. If there are any excess parts, use your scissors to trim them off. And there you have it – your strip light is now covered!
Step 5. Test Your Covered Strip Light:
Once you’ve attached your material to the strip light, it’s time to test it. Turn on your strip light to see how it looks with the new cover. If you’re satisfied with the look, congratulations – you have successfully covered your strip light! If not, don’t worry.
You can always adjust the material, try a different type of fabric or paper, or even add another layer if the light is too bright. Remember, the goal is to achieve a look that suits your style and the ambiance of your space, so feel free to get creative and experiment until you find the perfect solution.
Step 6. Maintenance and Safety:
Now that your strip light is covered and you’re pleased with the result, it’s important to remember a few safety and maintenance tips. Firstly, ensure that the material used to cover the strip light is securely attached and not loose. Loose materials could pose a risk of fire.
Secondly, make sure the material you chose is not flammable. Lastly, for maintenance, remember to dust off the cover regularly to avoid dust accumulation, which could impair the brightness of your strip light.
Step 7. Enjoy Your New Ambiance:
With the beautifully-covered strip light and safety measures in place, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. The new cover will cast a soft glow, enhancing the ambiance of your room, and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Adjust the positioning of the strip light if needed to illuminate your space best.
Remember, the beauty of this DIY project is in its flexibility, allowing you to change the cover whenever you wish for a fresh look. Enjoy the improved aesthetics, the soft light, and the compliments your new decor will surely receive!
Step 8. Switch Up Your Styles:
One of the best parts about covering your strip light is its versatility. If you’re ever feeling like a change, simply remove the existing cover and replace it with a new material. This could be a different color, pattern, or seasonal theme – the only limit is your imagination. So feel free to switch up your styles according to your mood or the occasion, and watch how your strip light transforms your space each time.
By following these easy steps, you know how to cover a strip light and add a touch of style to your room. Whether you want to create a cozy ambiance in your bedroom or elevate the sophistication in your living room, this simple DIY project is an effective and affordable solution that anyone can use.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Choose the Right Cover: Ensure that the cover you choose for your strip lights is compatible with its size and shape. The cover should not impede the light spread or distort its color.
- Heat Resistant Material: Strip lights can generate heat, so the cover should be made from a heat-resistant material to avoid melting or other heat-related damage.
- Easy to Clean: Select a light cover that is easy to clean. Dust and dirt can accumulate over time, reducing the brightness of the light.
- Check the Installation Procedure: Before buying a light cover, check its installation process. Some light covers are straightforward to install, while others may require additional tools or professional assistance.
- Safety Measures: Always turn off and unplug your strip lights before installing a cover. This will prevent any accidental electrical shocks during the installation process.
With these additional tips and tricks, you can ensure your strip lights are covered properly and efficiently. Remember to prioritize safety and functionality when choosing a cover for your strip lights.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Incompatible Materials: Not all materials are suitable for light covers. Avoid using materials that are not heat-resistant or may melt under intense light, such as certain plastic or fabrics.
- Avoid Blocking Ventilation: Do not cover ventilation holes or block the airflow around the strip lights. Overheating can cause damage to the lights and potentially pose a fire hazard.
- Avoid Touching the Light Bulbs: When installing the cover, avoid touching the light bulbs directly with your bare hands. Oils from your skin can reduce the life of the bulbs.
- Avoid Using Damaged Equipment: If your strip lights or light cover are damaged, avoid installing them. Broken or chipped parts can cause electrical hazards or impair the performance of the lights.
- Avoid Lack of Maintenance: Pay attention to the cleaning and maintenance of your strip lights and covers. Regular cleaning can significantly enhance the lifespan and efficiency of your lights.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure your strip lights are covered safely and efficiently. Always read the instructions carefully and follow safety precautions when handling any electrical equipment.
5 Different Ways to Cover Your Strip Lights
- Fabric Covers: One of the easiest and most versatile ways to cover your strip lights is using fabric covers. You can choose from various colors, patterns, and textures to match your style.
- Paper Lanterns: Consider using paper lanterns as light covers for a more unique and whimsical look. These come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, allowing you to customize the look of your strip lights.
- Wooden Slats: If you prefer a more rustic or natural look, wooden slats can be used as light covers for your strip lights. They add warmth and texture to any room while still allowing the light to shine through.
- Frosted Acrylic Sheets: For a sleek and modern look, frosted acrylic sheets can cover your strip lights. They provide a diffused glow and are easy to install.
- Bamboo Shades: Another option for a natural and eco-friendly light cover is bamboo shades. These can add depth and texture while still allowing the light to shine through.
With these different ways to cover your strip lights, you can mix and match materials and styles to create your unique look. Get creative and have fun with this DIY project!
Conclusion
After reading through this comprehensive guide, you should now clearly understand how to successfully and safely cover a strip light. Strips can be expensive to transfer or replace, so accuracy and precision are key.
Remember to have the right tools and adequately test the fit before installation. With these tips in mind, you should be able to install your strip with complete confidence safely! If you’re still unsure about any part of the process, don’t hesitate to ask for expert advice.
Hopefully, the article on how to cover a strip light has been informative and helpful to you. With a little creativity and some simple DIY techniques, you can completely transform the look of your space while adding functionality to your lighting system. So get started on that project, and enjoy the new ambiance in your room! Happy decorating!