Hi Swanky DIY-ers!!
Today we have for you a super cute DIY for stunning lighted marquee letters. These look great on a mantle or used in a Valentine's Day themed photo shoot!
Step 1: Gather Supplies
-Cardboard letters (we got ours from Hobby Lobby and they were on sale!)
-Paint and paint brush
-Exacto knife
-Tape (we have scotch tape pictured here, but would recommend using clear packing tape instead)
-Globe lights
Step 2: Cut the letters
Next, you will need to cut with your exacto knife along the outer edges of your letters. Leave some attachment at the tops so you can close the backs later.
Step 3: Cut holes for lights
Now, use a ruler to give you a good idea of where you need to place the lights evenly and in a straight line. Pencil erases well from the letters so no need to be so light handed so you can't see the lines. After all of your holes are cut, paint your letters any way you like!
Step 4: Insert your lights
After the letters are painted (and dry!) put your lights into the holes you created. Tip- the lights we used did not have a detachable globe portion that sits over the lightbulb. Because our globe didn't detach, we had to push the whole light through each of our holes. This is why our punch outs are so large in the previous photo. We would recommend finding lights that have the detachable globe so that you don't run into the same issue!
Step 5: Cord management
Now, close the flap you left open at the top of your letter. It will be a little tricky to get all of the cords to lay flat enough to shut the letter, but if you work with it long enough, eventually everything will close. We used regular scotch tape to close our letter, but would recommend using something stronger, like clear packing tape, to ensure a tight seal. We also cut a small hole in the bottom of the letter for the cord to run through.
Step 6: Decorate!
And there you have it! Turn your lights on and place them anywhere you like! These are super cute, inexpensive, and easy to make.
