Crafts With Light Switch Plates
A plain light switch cover can look boring, but you can spice up your walls with decorated switch plates. Crafters of all ages and skill levels can decorate light switch plates using everything from polymer clay to tissue paper. With light switch plate crafts, you can match your switch plates to decor in a child's room or incorporate other design elements such as colors or patterns.
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Painting
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Adults can paint the plate to match colors or patterns, and kids will enjoy painting little scenes or their favorite animals on the plates. To paint a plastic light switch plate, first rough up the surface with fine sandpaper. Then paint with acrylic or craft paints using a fine brush for detail. Wooden light switch plates can also be stained in patterns or to match wood furniture. To preserve your artwork, spray with a clear sealant.
Paper
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Cover wooden or plastic light switch plates with paper using craft glue or decoupage glue. Use scrapbook papers, wrapping paper or tissue paper. To cover a light switch plate with paper, first cut out a rectangle of paper slightly larger than the plate. Then rough up the surface, wipe clean of dust, and apply a thin coat of glue to the plate. Place paper and press down, making sure to fold the paper over the curved edge of the plate. Allow to dry. Once dry, trim off excess paper and cut out the hole for the switch and screws using a craft knife. Cover with a coat of clear decoupage glue.
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Fabric
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Fabric can be a surprising choice for covering light switch plates to match interior decor items such as curtains or bedspreads. Covering a light switch plate with fabric uses the same technique as covering in paper. Decoupage glue is perfect for this craft because it dries clear and will soak into the fabric.
Polymer Clay
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To cover an entire plate in polymer clay, use a metal light switch plate. Roll out the clay and lay over the plate, and then cut out holes for the switch and screws. You can create patterns or designs with polymer clay. Sculptors can also create figures with flat backs to attach to wooden light switch plates.
Other Materials
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Wooden craft sticks, stickers or rhinestones can all be used to cover a switch plate. Kids will enjoy using craft sticks, and teenagers can embellish plates with rhinestones and stickers. Adults can create a mosaic effect using different materials. Create a smooth glossy surface by pouring polymer resin over the decorated plate.
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References
Resources
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