Right now big, globe pendant lights are really in style. In the stores these can cost upwards of $150 but you can make yourself a trio of these fab lights for less than $50.
courtesy of http://cstarevents.blogspot.com
Supplies and tools
* 3 bouncy balls, one small, one medium and one large
* Clear drying craft glue, I use Elmer’s which works just fine.
* String, yarn, hemp, raffia (or whatever appeals to you) in varying weights. you’ll want to use the thickest string on the biggest ball and the thinnest on the smallest. Figure that for every 10 inches of diameter, you’ll need about 100 yards of string. TIP: Don’t skimp on the string. You can always take the unopened packages back to the store but if you run out in the middle of your project, everything will probably be ruined.
* Vaseline
* Plastic gloves
* Drop cloth
* Sharpie or other permanent marker
* Ball inflating needle (available from sporting goods stores) If you don’t care to save the balls then just use a craft knife to puncture the balls and deflate them.
* Light fixture and hardware from amazon
1. Protect your work surface with the drop cloth and put your gloves on.
2. Draw a circle on the ball with a permanent marker. This is your “string free” zone. Make sure not to cover it with the string as you’ll need it clear in order to install the light kit and have access to the bulb.
3. Apply a thin layer of Vaseline all over the ball.
4. Apply the glue by squeezing a nut size glob into your hand then pull the string through the glue and wrap the gluey string around the ball. You should repeat this process until you achieve the desired effect. Some people like a denser amount of string, which also makes it stronger, while others prefer a light, airy look achieved using less string. TIP: Don’t methodically criss-cross the string, try and use wavy, random motions and make sure NOT to cross you circle.
5. Repeat the process on the other two balls.
6. When the glue has dried completely, use the inflating needle to deflate the balls. When the balls are void of air you can just gently pull them out through the hole you left (circle area).
7. Follow the instructions included with your hanging light kit. You’ll want to make sure that the bulb hangs in the middle of the sphere. You can use some extra string or wire to secure it in place.
You could also use some extra string to wrap the cord that came with your light kit. This would give it a great, custom look.
Well, I hope I’ve “lit” the fires of your imagination. Have fun and post your projects when they’re done!
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