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How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Step 1

How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Add hole to the bottom of the basket

Use a drill bit and trowels to make a 1-1/2" hole in the bottom of the basket. If you opt for a plug-in application instead of a hardwired application, this will allow for the proper width for a plug fits through the hole, then plug it into an outlet.

Step 2

How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Strip part of wire lining

About two inches from the socket of the pendant kit, cut the white cable jacket with all-purpose wire strippers.

Step 3

How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Strip wire ends

Use multi-purpose wire strippers to cut through the sheathing of the wire to expose the wires.

Stage 4

How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Insert the cable into the conduit

Slide exposed cable through galvanized metal conduit and roof deck.

Step 5

How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Slide the socket and cable through the basket

Insert the cut socket and cable into the basket.

Step 6

How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Reconnect the wires

Use butt splices and multifunctional wire strippers to join the socket portion and the long shrouded wire portion of the pendant kit.

Step 7

How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Wrap the wires with electrical tape

Use electrical tape to firmly hold the two parts of the wiring harness together.

Step 8

How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Bind End of Rope

Unwind the string from the spool, then use a hot glue gun to tie off the end.

Step 9

How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Wrap the duct with rope

Cover the galvanized metal duct and canopy with rope using a hot glue gun and glue sticks. Because there is a pre-drilled screw hole on the roof deck, it is better to wrap the deck with rope after it has been installed on the roof.

Step 10

How to make a repurposed basket light fixture

Add bulb

Screw the bulb into the socket.

Pro Tip

For a diffused look, consider adding a ready-made diffuser to the basket opening using finishing screws and a drill. A DIY version can be made from a 24" x 24" sheet of acrylic using a jigsaw, then lightly sanded with fine grit sandpaper.