PVC Pipe Lighting

Pretty simple process to make these lights I am using in my classroom. I have seen a number of versions of these lights, including people using hula hoops. I couldn't find hoops big enough and those that I did find were very expensive. I was able to create three sets of two lights for just a few dollars (although I did buy a tool).

It wasn't difficult to complete.

Buy 1" PVC pipe in appropriate lengths. I used 20' versions. Sometimes Charlotte pipe is cheaper, make sure you compare. For me that was 4 20' sections plus one 10 foot length.

Buy enough 90 degree angles for your needs. I used 24.

Also pick up some T-joints for the middle section. I used 6.

Step 1: Preparing the PVC Pipe

I didn't glue mine, I just used white duct tape to hold the pieces together. If I went back and did this again, I would certainly use the PVC glue to hold them together. I used one roll of duct tape.

Cut the pipe to fit your needs. Mine are 4 feet long and 2 feet wide, so I cut enough pipe to make 6 lights, which means:

12 4' sections

12 2' sections (I ended up cutting 6 of these in half for the center connector, but I found it easier to do that once the squares were put together).

3 4' sections to connect the two squares together.

For simple math - that is 8 10' lengths of pipe plus 4' off another 10 foot length.

If you decide to use the PVC glue now is the time to get going on connection the pieces together to make your squares. Once they have dried, you can move on to the next step.

It was here that I cut the middle of one side of the squares. I inserted the T-joint and connected a single length 4 feet long. Again, if you are using glue, get it out. Once all the connections have been made, and you have allowed them to dry if you are using glue.

Step 2: Getting the Lights on and Preparing to Hang

It's time to wrap the lights around and across. I just did my best to pull the lights across as tightly as possible. I used duct tape to hold them in place.

So far it has been almost three months and while some of the tape is pulling off, it is pretty simple to get back up there and add another piece or two. After you have the lights wrapped and taped up (remember to leave enough at one end to dangle down far enough to be plugged in).

I measured out lengths of fishing wire, about 4 feet worked for me. I used 4, 4-foot segments for each square and hung them up using ceiling connectors. You can find these at places where teachers buy their supplies or online.

Step 3: Final Step - Get Them Up in Your Room!

Hang them up and you are done.

I have seen people use these at weddings, in classrooms, outside in covered porches, and kids rooms.