DIY light-switch & outlet plates.

Mamie will be creating DIY projects for the rest of the summer, as well as a few other blog posts. So, be on the lookout for new projects and recipes! Here is a really easy and fun project that she created using my new wrapping paper designs that I will be able to show you soon!

Supplies:

light-switch or outlet covers
cutting mat
knife
decoupage glue or double stick tape
small brush
pencil
ruler
patterned paper

This project was derived from the Retro Depot Pattern Book. I adjusted the instructions to make the project easier and also adapted it to work for outlet covers as well.

Step 1: Lay the plate on the back side of the paper with the pattern facing the table. Trace around the outside of the plate. Remove the plate and, with the ruler and pencil, draw a 1 inch border. (For the outlet a 3/4 inch border works better. For all other plates, use an 1 in. border as it is easier to glue to the back).

Step 2: Cut the excess paper around the border with the knife, ruler and cutting mat. Also using the knife and ruler, cut a diagonal line from the corner of the border to the corresponding corner of the outline of the plate. Then, create a triangle flap by folding each corner flap into the border. A triangle shape of the pattern should show.

Step 3: Using the brush, cover the plate with the glue. Place the plate onto the paper using the pencil outline as a guide. Put glue on the top flap, then, press the flap down firmly. Repeat for the bottom flap. Then, glue the two sides.



Step 4: The glue will dry quickly. Lay the covered plate with the backside facing you on the cutting mat. Using the knife, carefully cut out the shape of the light-switch or outlet. It helps to rotate the plate to get the best cut.

Step 5: Install the plate. Don't worry about cutting out the the screw holes. When you install the plate on the wall you can easily poke the holes then.

The fun part about this project, is you can cover any shape or size plate. And if you want to switch out the paper, you can easily do so. It is an inexpensive way to add a touch of detail and color to a room.

Note: You can use double stick tape as an alternative to the glue. However, I found I preferred the look of the glue to the tape. Also, feel free to seal the final project with glue to protect it for long term use.