Make Me: Upcycled Wrapping Paper Covered Light Switch

Due to a lackluster showing this winter from the Snow Gods my Spring Fever has kicked in earlier than normal this year.  The fact that the sun is shining and there is no snow on the ground makes me want to sweep the porch, get out the plastic flamingos and fill every pot I own with flowers.  Problem is, even though the sun is technically shining, it's still only about 40 degrees outside.  Brrr.  That's a little cold for flowers.  So, while I wait for the weather to warm up outside, I decided to bring my Spring Fever inside this weekend and make this green leaf  upcycled wrapping paper covered light switch.

For this project you will need:

• a light switch cover
• matte mod podge
• a paintbrush
• some leftover wrapping paper and/or tissue paper
• the cutest miniature screwdriver I ever saw

To start, pick a light switch cover that needs a pick-me-up.  

Look at this guy, he's completely let himself go.  

Remove it from the wall with a tiny little screwdriver that is so cute!   

A-hem, or just use a regular screwdriver.  Wash the cover to get rid of oily fingerprints and dust.


Lay your cover on top of your chosen paper- I chose this wrapping paper that I've been hoarding saving for the perfect project since rescuing it from a present I received a couple years ago.  

Cut around the cover leaving about 1/4"extra on all sides. 

Wrapping paper works very well for this project because it is soft and bendable but remains sturdy even when wet with glue.  Card stock is too stiff for this project and tissue paper can be difficult as it tears easily.

Cover the entire surface of the light plate with Mod Podge and lay the paper over the top, paint a layer of Mod Podge on the surface of the paper as well, smoothing out any air bubbles as you go.  

Once dry, about 20 minutes, flip the cover face down on your surface, cut the corners with an X-acto knife and glue the paper around the corners like you're wrapping a present.  

Add Mod Podge to both sides of the paper to make it pliable and secure the paper to the light plate.  

Cut an 'X' into the backside of the paper where the light switch goes (this is much easier if the paper is completely dry if it is still wet, wait for it to dry or you may rip the paper), add Mod Podge to both sides of the 'X'd paper and glue down. 

Allow to dry, about 15-20 minutes, if desired add another coat of Mod Podge to the entire front of the light switch to ensure it's fully sealed and you're done.  


Grab your adorable little screw driver and put him back on the wall.  

                                                       
Muuuuch better.


Now there's nothing left to do but sit back and wait for Spring.  Only four days until Daylight Savings-  We're almost there!! Pin It