Marquee Alphabet Light

Last week I did my usual blog rounds and saw over at YOUNGHOUSELOVE that they were having another Pinterest challenge, along with “house of earnest” and Bower Power. I didn’t participate in the first one, but did enjoy seeing all the neat projects that their readers completed. I seriously spent hours just browsing and linking to various blogs. So this time I wanted to get in on the action. BUT, we had plans for the weekend, so there was no time to scour the web for inspiration and then attempt to recreate it. So instead I’m sharing a project that I previously did. Hope you enjoy.

The finishing touches in a room can really make a difference. I always browse the web, and window shop for cool accessories that match our taste, style and almost as important……. our budget.

I saw these marquee lights and wanted to get a “L” for our last name. However the prices are always a bit too much for a mere accessory. This one is available at Urban Outfitters for $179

So of course I decided that the next best thing would be to make one myself. Initially, I thought I would make a light that ACTUALLY worked. But after planning out the project that seemed a bit more complicated than I wanted. Instead I settled on creating one that is purely just for looks.

my version

Here’s how I did it.

Supplies:

large paper mache letter  -$3.50 (with a 40% off coupon)

acrylic paint   -already had

paint brush  -already had

exacto knife  -already had

mini silver Christmas ornaments  -$1

glue gun  -already had

Total=  $4.50 !!!!

Carefully cut the face of the letter off using the exacto knife. Discard.

Paint all surfaces of the letter.

After it dries, measure where the light bulbs (ornaments) will go (evenly spaced),  and mark with a pencil.

Using the exacto knife, cut small holes at each mark.

Pull the hook portion off each ornament.

Put a ring of glue around the bottom end of ornament and insert into holes.

This was  a really simple project to do and I was surprised at how well it turned out. I love it.  And it  cost less than $5 to make. It’s a great addition to the room and  looks like the real versions.