TicTac Fairy Lights
Did you know that there is a tiny version of the usual TicTac boxes? I was given one and it just looked too cute to to throw it away. Luckily my friends were only exited about the content, so I was able to gather a heap of empty boxes.
Let's upcycle them into these super easy TicTac fairy lights!
Materials & Tools
Tools:
- pen or similar sized object
Consumables:
- isopropyl alcohol (to get rig of the best before date)
- paper tissue/ napkin
Materials:
- 10x or 20x empty mini TicTac boxes
- 1x fairylight with 10 or 20 LEDs, I got the warm white version
- 2x CR2025/ CR2032 coin cell (they have a lifetime of 10-20 years, so don't be afraid to buy in bulk)
- filler material to spread the light (I'd recommend cotton wool, but hadn't any left so I used some paper tissue/ napkin instead)
Wipe Off the "Best Before" Print
I don't particularly like having a "best before" date on my lamp, so I decided to wipe off the print with some isopropyl alcohol.
Prepare Filling Material
If you, like me, happen to not have cotton wool you can replace it with a paper tissue/ napkin. As it is out of the box it blocks too much light, so you need to seperate its layers first. Afterwards stack all layers and cut them into squares of about 6-7cm.
Fill the Boxes
It looks ok to have just the light in the boxes. However it's a lot nicer if the box is evenly illuminated. If you use paper tissue/ napkin use a pen or similar sized object and stuff it into each box. The goal is to have a thin layer all around while keeping some space in the middle. It's ok if some paper is sticking out of the top.
Add the LEDs
Position a LED in the middle of a box, fold over the remaining paper and close the lid. The wires should come out at the back as shown. I my experience there is no additional support needed besides the boxes' closing mechanism.
You're Done!
Yup, that's it, all that's left to do is insert the batteries and flick the switch. Isn't it pretty?
If you bought the pack of 60 boxes you'll have plenty left. I know, it's hard to resit the urge to eat them all by yourself, but pass a few to family, friends, coworkers or just random strangeres and spread a bit of joy ?