One of the joys of being a blogger is the wonderful opportunity I have to discover so many creative people! I recently came across a posting at the Teach Preschool website which offered a great idea on how to make your own light table.
I’ve always wanted to get a light table for my 3 1/2-year-old, but light tables cost anywhere from $50 for a small light box to $500 for a full size, wood framed, table.
I deviated from the plans highlighted on the Teach Preschool site; partially because I’m frugal and also because I don’t like using spray paint. I ended up making my light table for $12.96. It would have cost $18 if I didn’t already have the storage container.
Come learn how to make an inexpensive homemade light table for kids! #diy #lighttable Click To Tweet
Here’s what I did:
* I took a basic clear plastic bin and lined it with aluminum foil. Table the foil securely to the container.
* I added a small fluorescent light fixture ($12.96 from a local home goods store). The light points towards the base of the storage container. You could also use a long strand of white mini-lights. Have the cord coming out of the box (no need to cut a hole in the container, the lid will still go onto the container).
* I put the lid on and tipped the whole thing over (so the lid is at the bottom).
* I added some great light table objects (I’ve provided coloured glass beads, shells and tissue paper so far).
* If you don’t want the bulb to be as visible, tape a piece of parchment paper on the base of the container.
What fun! I enjoy observing my daughter explore and discover the mystery of light, colour and shadow. I look forward to adding many more elements to our light table.
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Excellent! Good Job!
Very cool :)
I have recently been thinking about making a light box for our kids and then saw this post. What a great resource! Thanks so much for sharing the inspiration!
Love it! Simple, easy, quick…
I have some damaged fairy lights at home that don’t look good for much else… It’s fantastic when you might just have EVERYTHING you need for a project right at home ready to go.
I also love that this is so easily dismountable if we don’t want it up anymore…
A great summer project :-)
It’s so easy to do Steph and it provides lots of opportunity for exploration and fun!
How clever, I love seeing mommy ingenuity! My littles would love this on a cold day :)
Children love light tables! Light, dark, shadows, reflections… so many cool things to explore.