Lighting is one of the most important aspects of makeup artistry, and although the best source of light is the sun, weather changes can disrupt that light. Or, we simply may not have enough windows at home to let light in. Luckily for you, I have found this easy DIY ring light tutorial online by just Mels which deserves our attention. Meticulously put together, here’s how you can make your very own DIY ring light.
Easy Makeup DIY Ring Light For Beginners
What you’ll need for your DIY ring light:
- Wreath Frame
This is one of the most important parts of your ring light as it keeps the rope lights in place. You can easily get your own wreath frame from Amazon like this 14″ Metal Floral Wreath for nearly $7 or cheaper for the smaller version.Another way to achieve a frame is to make one from cardboard. Watch this video to see how to do it.
Remember that you need a firm frame, not a very expensive one, so make sure you buy or make one that is able to stand properly.
- Rope Lights
Rope lights are an integral part of your DIY ring light. You can easily get them from a local store or online for a cheap price. Some rope light boxes have their own cords, but if you want to make them longer, you can buy extra extension cords.Choose the length of the rope light that fits your wreath frame without cutting the extension. Try not to have the rope too long. If you do, when you start to wind the rope lights around your frame it will become too thick.
Also consider the brightness and tone of your rope lights as there are different lighting levels and effects.
- Zip Ties
You can use different types of string to hold the frame and rope lights together, but zip ties are easier to use and cheaper. You can get a lot of zip ties in 1 bag for less than $5, and they come in different colors and sizes.
- Foil
Adding foil to your DIY ring light will help you achieve more reflection.
- Folder Paper Or Cardboard
- Scissors and Pen
- Nail File (Optional)
Step 1: Make A Paper Frame
Place your wreath frame on the folder paper or cardboard to measure it. Use a pen to draw the exact shape of the ring light on that folder paper or cardboard. Then carefully cut it out.
Now you have your flexible paper frame the exact size of the wreath frame.
Step 2: Put On Some Reflection
Wrap the folder paper frame with foil. You can use some tape to make it more secure.
Step 3: Tie Securely
The next step is to pull one end of the rope light against the perimeter of the wreath frame and secure it in place with the zip tie. Make sure to fasten it on the outer edge, because it will be the most efficient placement when you start to put the electrical cord back in.
Step 4: Secure the Rest of the Rope Light
After you’ve secured one end of the rope light, start securing the rest of the rope light around the wreath frame all the way to the other end of the rope light. You may use more or fewer zip ties according to your preference.
Step 5: Cut Ends
Cut the ends of the zip tie so that no ends poke out. You can use an old nail file to file away the sharp edges of the zip ties which I think is good advice. However, this is just an optional step.
Step 6: Add Foil Rim
Meticulously attach the foil rim that you made earlier to the ring light with zip ties and cut off the extensions. The foil rim will make your ring light look nice and clean.
Step 7: Use A Light Stand
Now that you have a working DIY ring light, you can mount the finished product on an old light stand using zip ties as well. Make sure to position the end of the rope light downwards where the electrical cord connects so that the cord will not be bothersome to you afterward.
Nothing fancy but it works like a charm, here is the finished product!
Take a closer look at how it’s done with this full video tutorial of a DIY ring light.
If you’re planning to film a YouTube video, take quality photos, or just have an excellent source of light while doing your makeup, this DIY ring light is what you need! This DIY project is affordable and guaranteed to change the game when it comes to applying your makeup, filming, or taking selfies. What are you waiting for? Gather your materials and recreate this easy and effective DIY ring light today!
What do you think of this easy DIY ring light tutorial? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on July 27, 2016, and has been updated for quality and relevancy!
