The Easy DIY That Gives Your Bathroom Lighting An Elegant Upgrade

Lighting can make a big difference in a bathroom– whether it's a bright light that helps you get ready for the day, or a dim one that soothes you while brushing your teeth at night. That's why you should have bathroom light fixtures that work for your needs and tastes. However, not everyone has the budget or the skillset to make home décor upgrades. Or so it seems! There are bathroom lighting fixture makeovers that prove it doesn't have to be difficult, or expensive, to get results. With just a few supplies, you can create a DIY valance for your light fixture that will give it a soft and elegant look.

Valances have been around since medieval times, and they certainly can add instant charm to a boring window. But instead of just hiding curtain hardware, a valance can also help conceal an unsightly bathroom light fixture — particularly a vanity light. It actually turns one into a very lovely piece. For this project, shared by Hometalk, you will need fabric, thick poster board, a craft knife, a ruler, hot glue, and Command Strips. Make sure to choose a fabric pattern that goes with your bathroom décor, unless you're craving a bold new look. Darker colors will naturally shade the illumination more than lighter hues. Pick one that speaks to your sophisticated side and fits your lighting preference.

Start this project by measuring your light fixture so you will know what size valance you need. Keep in mind that there should be a few inches of space separating the shade and light bulbs — after all, you don't want to start a fire! Once you have the correct measurements, lay the poster board down and cut a long rectangle that is larger than the vanity light. Then, cut two large squares to glue vertically onto the edges of the rectangle, essentially creating the look of a valance or shade. Once dry, glue a small piece of poster board onto each of the vertical squares. This will help when attaching the valance to the wall. Next, carefully wrap the whole thing in fabric, securing it with glue. When your creation is dry, attach the Command Strips to the back parts of the valance and secure it to the wall over the light fixture.

The new valance should beautifully shade your light, offering a more relaxed vibe in your bathroom, especially if you swap out your bulbs for warm ones. Not to mention, it will add a touch of style for a low cost and little effort. Disguise your old fixture for as long as you like. Or think of it as a temporary solution. You could even pair it with a floating wall light to help elevate the ambiance in the space.