Update: Tweaking my DIY light table

Since my original post on creating my own light table, I have received all kinds of wonderful ideas on how to improve on my plan.

I thought I should share the ideas with you so you can decide what will work best for you…

The first suggestion was to paint the inside of my plastic container with a silver paint so to help contain and reflect the light inside the container. I used a plastic primer and then a metallic paint to paint the inside of my plastic container.

The next suggestion was to paint the bottom of the lid of the container with a frost paint. I found a frost paint at Lowes and tried it out.

I also decided to try different types of battery operated lights. These lights are florescent lights from Walmart. They do cost more money but I bought four of them and added batteries.

I actually bought two short and two long (the short ones were cheaper). Here they are inside the box without the lid.

The florescent lights are a little brighter so I laid them on their sides around the edges.

What I really like…

  • I love using battery operated lights so I can set the light box anywhere I want in the room. I can set it on a table or on the floor. I wont leave the lights on too long at a time so I am hoping the batteries will last for awhile.
  • I like that the basket is lite weight and durable.
  • I like that I can store my light table supplies inside the plastic box and put it all away easily.
  • I like the florescent lights better than the button lights for this but I still plan to use my button lights too.
  • I really like that metallic paint  I am thinking it would be fun to use for other ideas down the road. I could make my own play pizza pans:)

What I don’t like…

  • Having to buy so many AA batteries but the payoff of being able to move the light box anywhere I want is worth it to me.
  • The frost paint was a little blotchy in spots but it worked well enough.

I have a few more ideas to share with you on things you can make to explore on top of the light table but it will be a week or so before I can get them all ready to share.   I hope this is helpful to you all as you plan your own light tables. If you have any other suggestions or light table ideas – leave a link below to your light table ideas.  For now – I am happy with how this turned out and plan to introduce it in the classroom very soon.

To see the original light table post, click here!

To see how I made the colorful discs on top of the light table click here!

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Deborah J Stewart

Deborah J Stewart

Every time I think I know everything I need to know about teaching young children, God says, "Hold on a minute!" and gives me a new challenge.

Let me tell ya...

With each new challenge that you overcome, you will find yourself better equipped and more passionate about teaching young children.

God didn't call wimps to lead, teach, or care for His children. Nope, he has high expectations, so get ready. You will have to give your very best but after teaching for over 30 years, I can tell you that it is a wonderful and rewarding journey.

Whenever your calling feels hard, just remember, 'He who began a good work in you (and in the children you serve) will be faithful to complete it.'

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