How To Make Lighted Bar Shelves: A Personal Experience
As a home bar enthusiast, I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of having lighted bar shelves. They not only add a cool ambiance to the bar, but they also make it easier to find the right bottle in low light settings. After much research and experimentation, I’ve come up with a step by step guide on how to make lighted bar shelves that are both functional and stylish.
Step by Step Guide on How To Make Lighted Bar Shelves
Materials Needed:
- Wooden shelves
- LED strip lights
- Power supply
- Clear acrylic sheet
- Screws and screwdriver
Instructions:
- Measure the length and width of your bar shelves and cut wooden boards accordingly.
- Drill holes on the underside of the shelves for the LED strip lights to fit in.
- Attach the LED strip lights to the underside of the shelves using screws.
- Connect the LED strip lights to the power supply.
- Attach the shelves to the wall using screws.
- Cut the clear acrylic sheet to fit on top of the shelves and attach it using screws.
- Plug in the power supply and enjoy your new lighted bar shelves!
Top 10 Tips and Ideas on How To Make Lighted Bar Shelves
- Choose LED strip lights with a remote control for easy brightness adjustments.
- Use frosted or colored acrylic sheets for a unique look.
- Mount the shelves on a mirrored wall for a chic and modern look.
- Create a custom design with the LED strip lights, such as a rainbow effect.
- Use a dimmer switch for a more subtle lighting effect.
- Install shelves at different heights for a more dynamic look.
- Add a bar sign or logo to the acrylic sheet for personalization.
- Use battery-powered LED strip lights for a wireless option.
- Combine lighted bar shelves with a backlit bar for a cohesive look.
- Experiment with different wood stains and finishes for a personalized touch.
Pros and Cons of How To Make Lighted Bar Shelves
Pros:
- Adds a cool and modern ambiance to the bar.
- Makes it easier to find the right bottle in low light settings.
- Can be personalized to fit any style or theme.
- Easy to install with minimal tools required.
- LED strip lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting.
Cons:
- Requires some basic DIY skills and tools.
- Can be expensive depending on the materials used.
- May require electrical work if installing a dimmer switch.
- May require additional cleaning and maintenance to keep the acrylic sheet clear and free of scratches.
Personal Review and Suggestion on How To Make Lighted Bar Shelves
Overall, I am very happy with my lighted bar shelves and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking to add a unique and functional element to their home bar. The installation process was fairly simple and the end result looks amazing. My only suggestion would be to use a clear acrylic sheet with a scratch-resistant coating to avoid any visible scratches or marks.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Are lighted bar shelves safe to use?
A: Yes, as long as they are installed properly and the electrical components are up to code.
Q: How much do lighted bar shelves cost?
A: The cost will vary depending on the materials used and the size of the shelves, but expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 per shelf.
Q: Can I install lighted bar shelves myself?
A: Yes, the installation process is fairly simple and can be done with basic DIY skills and tools.