27th May 2025 Nick Smith

DIY LED Neon: Step-by-Step – How to Make Your Own Neon-Style Signs in the Classroom

Creating your own LED neon-style sign is more than a fun project — it’s an accessible way to blend creativity, hands-on learning, and real-world application. Whether you’re working from home, in a workshop, or leading a classroom activity, this guide walks you through how to make a custom neon sign that glows just like the real thing — but safer, cheaper, and with your own twist.

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🔧 Materials You’ll Need:

  • Flexible LED Neon Light Strip
    These mimic the glow of real gas neon using silicone or PVC tubing and come in multiple colours.

  • Transparent Acrylic Sheet or Plywood
    Acrylic offers a sleek, modern look; plywood gives a rustic finish.

  • Adhesive Backing or Mounting Clips
    Use what comes with your LED strip or apply strong glue if needed.

  • Power Supply and Adapter
    Make sure it’s compatible with your LED strip.

  • Marker or Chalk
    For tracing your design onto the base.

  • Scissors or Wire Cutters
    To trim your LED strip to size.

  • Heat Shrink Tubing (optional)
    Helps protect exposed wiring.

  • Screws and Drill (optional)
    For wall mounting if desired.

🛠️ Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Design Your Sign

  • Sketch your idea on paper — think bold shapes, short words, or symbols.

  • Transfer the design to your acrylic or wood base with a marker or chalk.

2. Cut and Prep Your LED Strip

  • Measure how much strip you need.

  • Cut only at marked points to avoid damaging internal wiring.

3. Shape the Strip to Match Your Design

  • Carefully bend the LED strip along your traced lines.

  • Work slowly around tight corners to avoid damaging the tube.

4. Mount the Strip

  • Peel the adhesive and press firmly into place.

  • Use mounting clips or glue if needed.

5. Wire It Up

  • Follow the LED strip’s instructions to connect it to your power source.

  • Cover exposed wires with heat shrink tubing if needed.

6. Test and Adjust

  • Plug it in. If anything doesn’t light up, double-check connections.

  • Reposition the strip if necessary before final mounting.

7. Mount or Display Your Sign

  • Drill holes and hang it, or simply rest it on a shelf or desk.

8. Finishing Touches

  • Wipe off any chalk or dust.

  • Decorate or paint the backing for extra flair.

🎨 Tips for Neon Sign Success:

  • Start Simple: A star, heart, or short word like “LOVE” or “GLOW” is perfect for beginners.

  • Use Templates: Print your design and place it under the base as a guide.

  • Prioritize Safety: Use the correct voltage and don’t overload your power source.

🧠 Educational Benefits for Students

This project is ideal for classrooms because it combines:

  • Design thinking

  • Basic electronics

  • Hands-on craftsmanship

  • Creative expression

It’s STEAM education in action — blending art, engineering, and technology.

🔥 Real DIY Neon Success Stories

🎮 The Games Room Glow-Up

One student used Canva to design a custom sign for their games room. After transferring the design to acrylic, they cut LED strips, used glue and soldering, and created a sign that looked pro-level. It wasn’t just a lighting upgrade — it was a full-on confidence boost in soldering and design.

✂️ The Beginner’s Zip Tie Trick

Another maker skipped the soldering altogether. Using shaping wire and zip ties, they attached LED neon flex to a plywood base — no tools, no fuss. This approach made the project accessible to younger students and complete beginners.

🎉 Ideas & Inspiration

  • Home Decor: Bedroom neon name signs, bathroom quotes, kitchen “Cocktail Hour” signs

  • Weddings: “Mr & Mrs,” initials, or hashtags in warm white or soft pink

  • School Projects: Logos, mascots, or inspirational quotes

  • Gifts: Birthdays, anniversaries, or just because

  • Events & Parties: Themed wedding neon signs for holidays, proms, or pop-up displays

🔗 Want More?

All our favourite pieces, past and present, live in the Inspiration Hub.

🏁 Final Thoughts

Creating your own LED neon sign is more than a weekend craft — it’s a creative, confidence-building project that blends design and function. It’s perfect for classrooms, hobbyists, or anyone who wants to add personal glow to their space.

Whether you’re making a neon sign to hang in your bedroom, retro gift to a friend, or display at an event, this guide gives you everything you need to make it happen.

From custom names to glowing event décor, the possibilities are endless. If you’d rather skip the tools and get straight to the glow, check out our full range of neon signs for sale — ready-made and fully customisable designs for every space and style.

So grab your materials, sketch your idea, and start bending that light — your custom neon masterpiece is just a few steps away.

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