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We offer the finished block or you can purchase the vinyl alone and create the blocks as a DIY project. They make beautiful gifts, and are perfect for someone that 'has everything'. These blocks are beautiful with or without the lights, and can have the same effect if they're illuminated from behind with a small light or candle.
DIY Block Light Information:
I get a lot of questions about how to create these blocks on your own. Predrilled blocks usually available at your local craft store, and they are now available at Lowe's for around $10.00. If you're making several blocks for gifts, it's more cost effective to purchase the non-drilled blocks and drill the holes yourself, but if you're making one or two, I recommend skipping the drilling step and purchase the craft block.
Materials List:
v 8 x 8 glass block with hole* for light string
v 1 string of 35 or 50 Christmas lights (make sure your string does not have the plug in at the end of the string)
v 1 vinyl initial or design
v 1+ yard of wide ribbon or embellishment to wrap around the block edges (you’ll need at least 32” to go around the block, more if you want to add a bow)
*You can drill the hole yourself in a block purchased from any home center store by using a diamond drill bit. Be sure to drill the hole under water to keep the bit cool—a mop bucket or a deep sink works just fine.
Variations to consider:
v Blocks do not have to be drilled and have lights added. Consider adding an accent light or candle illumination behind the light for the same effect and skip the drilling.
v For intricate designs, a frosted look on the glass creates a soft glow from the lights and makes the design stand out beautifully. You can get a frosted look using a spray-on finish from Krylon (found in stores in the spray paint section), or using an etching cream found at any craft store.
v Use both sides of the light for even more effect. Try a monogram initial on one side, and a holiday greeting or a simple Welcome on the other to extend the light’s usefulness. You can also use the same design on both sides, but use a different color of vinyl on each side, such as a dark color for winter, and a light color for summer decorating. You can use a glass marker to add signatures, best wishes, or a personal note to create a keepsake of a special event or holiday gathering.
v These lights can be used indoors or out, and are great to add soft lighting to outdoor evening occasions. The light string can be changed out for a battery operated string, which means that you can have light without worrying about running wires. These block lights are safer and sturdier than traditional candleholders, and the light strings are designed for outdoor use and put up with a lot of weather. For use outdoors in freezing conditions, be sure to spray the vinyl design with a polyurethane sealer; a top coat in gloss or semi gloss found in the spray paint section works well.
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