Cheap DIY Lighting Projects

The following guest post is sponsored by CSN Lighting and written by John Flanagan.

Renovating the lighting of your home doesn’t always have to be an expensive endeavor. In fact, if anything, cheap is now chic, as consumers are constantly looking for inexpensive, smarter ways to renovate their homes in this economy. Here are a few do-it-yourself lighting projects that are effectively appealing and less financially draining.

Installing a Dimmer Switch


The installation of a dimmer switch is an easy project that is sure to add ambiance to any room in your home. However, you don’t have to be an electrician to install a dimmer switch on your own; just make sure that the breaker box is turned off before you start, this is the most important step. Next, unscrew the switch plate using a screw driver to get through to the wiring. Once you do that, uninstall the wiring from the old switch- there should be three wires in all, so make sure that you get them all off before you proceed. The great thing about your new dimmer switch is that most likely, it will come with an easy connection to the wiring of your outlet, so the wires will fit back in with ease. Two of the three wires will need to be fastened with small screws (note: The ground wire should fasten to a screw on the bottom of the switch). With all three wires connected, the switch is ready to be re-installed into the outlet. Fasten the switch into the wall box with the two remaining screws, and reinstall the switch plate for completion of this easy project. Turn the breaker box back on when all is clear, and enjoy the transformation of your room. Don’t be afraid to dim those lights at the dinner table or in the living room after those long days at work. For more detailed instructions check out this wonderful installation guide here.
Total estimated Cost: $5-10 for the Dimmer Switch

Installing Under Cabinet Lighting


Have you ever walked into your kitchen and asked yourself, “What is the one thing that is missing here?” You might think that you need new ceiling lights or perhaps some new appliances but that’s usually not the cause of the uncertainty. Most likely, your kitchen just needs a boost and under cabinet lighting might just be the very addition that you are in desperate need of.


Under cabinet lighting is inexpensive, eye-pleasing, and easy to install. From a functional standpoint, it adds a guiding light to your countertops and aesthetically, the lighting serves to highlight those beautiful counter tops and cabinets that you should be proud of. The easiest versions to install are the plug-in under cabinet lights, which are easily fastened and wonderfully practical. Truly, you can transform your kitchen in no time, using less money with plug-in under cabinet lighting.
Estimated cost: $10-40 Plug in Under Cabinet Lighting

Solar Walkway Lights


Lighting does not have to be confined to interior locations; rather, outdoor lighting can really add value to your home as well as highlight your home’s landscape. Knee-high, Solar walkway reflector lights are low-cost, eco-friendly and serve as beautiful accents to your home’s curbside appeal. Not only do they provide a guiding light for your walkway, but they also complement a nice plant or flower-lined pathway quite nicely. Just stick them in the ground; it doesn’t get any easier than that!
Estimated cost: $20-80 Solar Walkway Lights