Light tape stuck around the edge of the routed out shape Shown from the back (L) and front (R) with lights on This makes changing the diffuser an easy procedure down the line if necessary. Don’t use glue or metal angles for this final piece.Once the fit is sorted, slide the acrylic diffuser into the 1/8” channel and screw in the bottom side to secure and finish the light box frame.Check the fit of the frame box with 3 sides loosely attached.The remote receiver mounted outside the light box Assembling The Backlit Stained Glass This prevents the risk of the remote not receiving a signal.ĭon’t worry about visuals the LED receiver can’t be seen when the panel is hung because the panel frame has larger external dimensions than the light box.

To be 100% sure that the remote works, cut 2 small slots in the bottom of the frame so that the remote receiver can sit be outside of the frame box. You MUST make sure the polarity of the connector wires and tape light are consistent throughout. Joining LED tape together with connectorsĬonnecting LED tape with connectors is easy, with one important proviso:

The transformer can be mounted inside the box as it generates little to no heat and is far neater. Note the 1/8″ channel around each side of the frame box for the acrylic (L) The cut tape light lengths, connectors and transformer. It’s less messy than the liquid but gloves are advised Gorilla Glue gel is good for sticking the tape lighting to the back of the frame box. When you’re happy with the fit, glue the tape lights to the 1/4” plywood.They will appear uneven if you switch the polarity at the connector. IMPORTANT: Check the lights before you stick them down with glue.Use masking tape to tape them down to check the fit.Use the connectors to enable you to loop back around.Plan the cutting of the tape light, arranging it similar to the photo below.For most projects you will likely need to buy extra connectors. Tape light can be cut where desired and connected to other pieces using “connectors.” These also helps the LED tape stay flat. Any problems with the remote receiver, transformer or the tape, can be accessed by simply opening the frame. The framed stained glass is attached to the light box solely with 2 piano hinges. Use a router to cut an 1/8″ channel around each side to accommodate the sheet of white acrylic ( see image further down the page). The most important thing is to make sure light doesn’t leak out from the back of the box. The box won’t be seen so don’t worry too much about ‘perfect’ construction. The photo above shows the outer light box dimensions relative to the panel frame. The inner dimension of the light box needs to be the same or slightly larger than the inner dimensions of the panel frame. It has a 5/16″ channel for the panel frame.

This tutorial doesn’t cover frame making per se but has a few main pointers to guide you:

1″x 3″ pine and 1/4″ plywood for sides and back of the light boxĭimmable LED tape, extra connectors and remote Frame & Light Box Considerations.

1/8” white acrylic (#7328) sheet for diffusing.

Thanks so much Tim 🙂 How To Backlight Stained Glass What You Need Tim Smith, one of my online students, has very kindly shared photos of his backlighting project. It eliminates the frustrating problems of inadequate natural light and unsightly objects behind. How To Make An LED Backlight For A Stained Glass Panelīacklighting is a great way to display your stained glass as it creates an even and controlled environment both day and night.

Lighted artist table