How to Make a Light Box for Drawing

A readymade light box can be quite expensive

A light box is a tool used in drawing to enhance the lines of an image so it can be retraced into a more polished copy. Sketches become finished drawings in this manner, and ideas become fleshed out into workable images. Light boxes are quite expensive, but there are alternative methods to make a simple one that will do the job for a fraction of the cost. Light boxes are useful for all ages of artists and the light inside is also helpful in understanding color.

Things You'll Need

• Shallow plastic bin with clear lid
• LED bright white lights with batteries
• Black construction paper
• Frosted paper (parchment, vellum or tissue)
• Clear packing tape

Instructions

1. Clean out the plastic container of any dust or other debris. Line the inside of the container with black construction paper on the sides and the bottom to block the light from coming out the sides. Secure the paper with packing tape so it sits properly in the container and there are no gaps.

2. Place at least three LED lights at the bottom of the container. Secure them with tape or the adhesive stickers that come with the lights. Place the lid on top of the container and test the diffused quality of the light. Evaluate whether the light is too bright out of the top by seeing whether the light appears as a spotlight or as soft white light.

3. Place frosted paper on the underside of the lid to soften the light. Add more to achieve the lighting you desire. Aim for a soft, bright light that fills the container but does not overpower. Tape the material in place.

4. Place the cover on top of the container with the lights on. Lay a drawing on the top of the lid. Trace the drawing to test how well the light flows out of the box. Adjust the amount of light or the paper to achieve the desired effect.

Tips & Warnings

• Reflective duct tape or another darkening material can be used instead of the black construction paper to block the light from escaping out the sides and bottom of the box.

• LED light tubes that plug in can be used instead of battery-powered adhesive lights if desired.

• Cut holes in the container to allow heat to escape if the lights give off any heat when lit for long periods to avoid overheating.

Resources

• Skull and Bones Skateboards: DIY Drawing Light Box
• Teach Preschool: DIY Light Box For Preschool