This guide will provide a step-by-step process on how to create your own LED Light Stick Mood Light. I was motivated to create this light because IKEA was sold out of their SPÄNST LED light sticks and I really wanted one for my cyberpunk inspired living space :C
Author's Note: While the design of this light stick allows for the light to be infinitely long, I found that lengths 4ft and under give the best results. At longer lengths, there is a potential for the LED strip mounts to start sagging, leading to an uneven lighting display.That being said, I have included extension connectors in my Thingiverse link.
Supplies
Tools:
- 3D Printer
- Soldering Iron
- Handsaw
- Scissors
Materials:
1x Plastic Tube*
1x White Butcher Block Paper**
1-2x LED Light Strip(s)***
1x Solder roll
1x 22 AWG stranded wire roll
1x Super Glue
2x M3 square nuts (cross-section dimensions should be approx. 2.5mm x 2.5mm)
2x M3 hex-head bolt, 6mm length
* For best results please use a plastic tube with the following specifications: The tube should be clear/transparent or 'lighting white'. The Minimum ID is 5/16", the maximum OD 1"; this is based on the 3D printed parts used in this build. If you feel comfortable with editing the .stl files, you can disregard these dimensions. The length of the tube is based on the Maker's preference
** White Butcher Block Paper will only be needed if you choose to create your light stick using a clear/transparent plastic tube (like I did in this how-to guide). Ideally, a plastic tube in 'lighting white' will give you a more consistent lighting scheme.
*** When using LED strips, always note the maximum length that is specified by the manufacturer. There is a chance you might have to use two sets of LED light strips!
Author's Note: Going with the philosophy 'measure twice, cut once' be sure to have the length of the light stick established before starting this project!
Key Links
3D Printed Parts:
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5020183
Video of the Assembly Process:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm8QZJYSUzY
Step 1: Print Out the LED Strip Mounts, Mount Connects, and End Caps
- Download the .stl files for the LED Strip Mounts and End Caps using the following Thingiverse link:
https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:5020183
- 3D Print two sets of end caps as well as the LED strip mounts. The number of LED strip mounts needed for this build is based on the length of the light stick. Each LED strip mount corresponds to 120mm (4.725 in) in length. It is better to be slightly undersized than oversized in regards to the length of the 3D printed parts as an undersized setup will allow the end caps to seal off both ends of the acrylic tube.
- If the LED strip mounts don't fit within the desired length of the tube, you can cut one of the elements to length using a handsaw or edit the part in your 3D printer setup software (if possible).
- Make sure to insert the M3 square nut into the square insert found in the geometry of the end-cap parts (see photo for reference)
Step 2: Assembly Overview
To see a time lapse video of the assembly process of the Light Stick Mood Light, please refer to the YouTube video linked in this section:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mm8QZJYSUzY
Step 3: Assemble the LED Mounts
- Insert each of the LED mount components together as shown in the picture.
- For extra rigidity, you can add superglue to contact surfaces between two LED mounts.
Step 4: Attach the Mount Connect on Side One
- Insert the LED Mount Connect on one side of the LED mounts.
Step 5: Prepare and Attach LED Strips to the LED Mounts
- Solder jumper cables to the ends of the LED strip. Be sure to check the circuit "direction" of the LED strips; usually this is distinguished by arrows on the strip.
- Attach the LED strip to the LED mounts. Make sure to feed the jumper cables through the holes of the end cap (see photo for reference).
- Cut the LED strips to length near the ends of the LED Mounts, it is better to be undersized than oversized.
- Solder jumper cables to the newly cut ends of the LED strip. It is better to leave the jumper cables on the long side.
Author's Note: We will be splitting up the LED strip into four pieces; map out how the circuit is going to be completed as it goes from one end to another. Label your LED strips accordingly to ensure you won't lose track on the circuit during the soldering process.This preparation will save you from future headaches later on the build!
Step 6: Prepare the Plastic Tube for Assembly
- Cut the plastic tube to the desired length.
- If you are using a clear/transparent plastic tube and desire a "lighting white" appearance, cut a strip of white butcher block paper that is the same length of the plastic tube. Roll up the butcher block paper and insert it inside of the plastic tube. Some adjustments may be needed if the butcher block paper overlaps into multiple layers (1 consistent layer of paper around the tube is ideal).
Step 7: Attach the Plastic Tube to the Main Assembly
- Slowly feed the LED mount assembly into the Plastic Tube. Make sure that the LED strip is not snagging onto anything.
Step 8: Attach the Mount Connect on Side Two
- Insert the Mount Connect on the open end of your unfinished Light Stick assembly. Make sure to feed the jumper cables through the end cap holes.
Step 9: Solder the Jumper Cables to Their Corresponding Strips
- Solder the loose jumper cable ends together using the circuit you mapped out in Step 4. One good practice is to use color coded wires as shown in the photo in this step section.
- Power on the LED strip driver and test to see if the circuit is working correctly.
Step 10: Attach the End Caps to Both Ends of Your Light Stick
- Attach the end caps to both ends of your light stick using M3 hex-head bolts, 6mm length. Take care to not knock out the M3 Square Bolts that are inserted into the Mount Connects.
Step 11: Congratulations! You Have Your Very Own Light Stick!
- Find yourself a nice dimly lit corner to place your Light Stick and enjoy the moody vibes of your labor!
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