String light fitting

We moved into our apartment nearly a year ago but we never got around to choosing light fittings for every room. Now that our baby boy is on the way, I wanted to try and make something different for his room. This is what I came up with. The inspiration came from some light fittings I saw that were made of doilies. I thought I would use similar techniques to make my own unique light fitting.

My materials
Ball of wool
PVA / white glue
Balloon

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Step 1: Mixing the glue

First, I chose some cream wool from my craft box which had an organic look to it. I then mixed some white/PVA glue with water to make my adhesive mixture. The glue I used is quite thick, like yoghurt so I mixed 1:1 ratio of glue to water. I would mix less water if the glue was thinner.

Keeping the wool as a ball, I squeezed the glue mixture through it so that it was soaked fully. Keeping it in a ball means that I can unravel it easier later.

lindachrisk says: May 26, 2012. 9:35 AM

really nice! I like the open bottom too. I also rent and we have one of those typical "brass" 5 sconce hanging light. I have been looking for a simple way to cover it without paying an arm and a leg for a shade big enough. It needs to be at least 24" in circumference. Do they make balloons that large, or maybe some of you have other ideas? Also, I think I want to use either hemp or jute string, to continue with a natural beach look I am trying to go for. Though, your wool is really pretty. Any thoughts?

2econdhand (author) in reply to lindachriskMay 27, 2012. 4:51 AM

You can definitely find balloons 24" and bigger but you might have to go to a party supplies or toy shop. If you have a giant fit ball, I guess you could use that as well but you might have to cover it with cling film so that the glue doesn't ruin it.

If you can't find a balloon and you are open to different shapes, you could use a cardboard box. I have been thinking about making a more rectangular shape for another room using the same method. You would need to cover the box ofcourse with a rubbish bag or similar to get the final piece off.

Good luck! Would love to see your final piece once you are done.

lindachrisk in reply to 2econdhandMay 27, 2012. 6:58 PM

I am always open to new ideas. Thanks for the reply.... the box idea is great. in fact, while reading it, I thought, hmm... if you are covering it before puting the glue or string on it... why not reform the box, using it's size as the base and filling it out with some type of filler to round out the corners and then cover. Ok, you have definitely been a help. I was stuck on this, cause i think i just saw too much. Thankyou!