DIY Your Own Swag Light: A Creative Lighting Solution

What is a Swag Light?

A swag light is a type of pendant light that is suspended from the ceiling by a chain or cord. The cord is plugged into an electrical outlet, making it a convenient lighting solution for spaces where hardwiring is not possible or desired. Swag lights come in a variety of styles and sizes, from minimalist and modern to vintage and ornate.

Why Make Your Own?

While you can easily purchase a swag light from a home decor store or online retailer, making your own allows you to customize the design to your personal style and save money in the process. Additionally, DIY swag lights can serve as a creative and fun project that allows you to flex your crafting skills.

Materials Needed

• Lampshade
• Plug-in pendant light kit
• Chain or cord
• Wire cutters
• Pliers
• Drill with steel bit
• Ceiling hook

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Choose Your Lampshade

Select a lampshade for your DIY swag light that fits your desired aesthetic and size. Keep in mind that your lampshade will need a top mounting surface or finial to attach the pendant light kit to.

Step 2: Drill a Hole in the Lampshade

Using a drill with a steel or diamond drill bit, make a hole in the top of the lampshade that is large enough for the cord or chain to pass through. Be careful not to crack or damage the lampshade while drilling.

Step 3: Install the Pendant Light Kit

Follow the instructions included with your pendant light kit to assemble and install it. This will typically involve wiring the components together and affixing the plug to the end of the cord.

Step 4: Attach the Chain or Cord

Using wire cutters and pliers, remove any excess cord or chain from the pendant light kit and attach the remainder to the top of the lampshade through the drilled hole. Make sure the pendant light kit is securely attached to the lampshade, using additional hardware if necessary.

Step 5: Hang Your Swag Light

Screw a ceiling hook into the desired location for your swag light and hang the pendant light kit from it. Adjust the length of the cord or chain to your preferred height.