{"id":12711,"date":"2026-01-15T13:57:34","date_gmt":"2026-01-15T13:57:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/?p=12711"},"modified":"2026-01-15T13:57:50","modified_gmt":"2026-01-15T13:57:50","slug":"how-to-create-neon-lights-a-guide-to-real-glass-led-alternatives","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/how-to-create-neon-lights-a-guide-to-real-glass-led-alternatives\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Create Neon Lights: A Guide to Real Glass &#038; LED Alternatives"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"sws_supernormalaction\"><button on=\"tap:superwebshare-lightbox\" class=\"superwebshare_normal_button1 superwebshare-button-large superwebshare-button-default superwebshare_prompt superwebshare_button_svg\" style=\"color:#ffffff;background-color: #1e73be;\" ><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"superwebshare-svg\"  fill=\"currentColor\" viewBox=\"0 0 1000 1000\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"0\"><path stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" d=\"M789.86,323.67c91.79,0,164.25-72.46,164.25-164.25S881.64,0,789.86,0S625.6,72.46,625.6,164.25c0,4.83,0,14.49,0,24.15L306.76,371.98c-24.15-24.15-57.97-33.82-96.62-33.82c-91.79,0-164.25,72.46-164.25,164.25s72.46,164.25,164.25,164.25c38.65,0,72.46-14.49,96.62-33.82L625.6,821.26c0,9.66,0,14.49,0,19.32c0,86.96,72.46,159.42,159.42,159.42s159.42-72.46,159.42-159.42s-67.63-159.42-154.59-159.42c-33.82,0-67.63,9.66-96.62,33.82L374.4,526.57c0-9.66,0-19.32,0-24.15s0-14.49,0-24.15l318.84-188.41C717.39,314.01,751.21,323.67,789.86,323.67z\" \/><\/svg><span>Share<\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"dad65929\">\n<div class=\"_4f9bf79 d7dc56a8 _43c05b5\">\n<div class=\"ds-message _63c77b1\">\n<div class=\"ds-markdown\">\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Creating that iconic neon glow involves two distinct paths: the\u00a0<strong>traditional, artisanal craft of bent glass tubes<\/strong>\u00a0and the\u00a0<strong>modern, accessible world of LED neon flex<\/strong>. Here\u2019s your guide to both.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-12714\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/bd7aa5a2-156a-4860-bd02-c53555c34ee5.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1536\" height=\"1024\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/bd7aa5a2-156a-4860-bd02-c53555c34ee5.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/bd7aa5a2-156a-4860-bd02-c53555c34ee5-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/bd7aa5a2-156a-4860-bd02-c53555c34ee5-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/bd7aa5a2-156a-4860-bd02-c53555c34ee5-768x512.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1536px) 100vw, 1536px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Method 1: Traditional Glass Neon (The Artisan&#8217;s Way)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">This is the true, original craft. It&#8217;s complex, requires specialized equipment and safety training, and is not a typical DIY project. Here\u2019s how it\u2019s done professionally.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Materials &amp; Equipment Needed:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Glass Tubing:<\/strong>\u00a0Lead or soda-lime glass tubes in various diameters.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Gas &amp; Phosphors:<\/strong>\u00a0Noble gases (Neon for red\/orange, Argon for blue; others are mixes\/coatings). Phosphor powders coat tubes for other colors.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Electrodes:<\/strong>\u00a0Metal electrodes sealed at each tube end.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Transformer\/Power Supply:<\/strong>\u00a0High-voltage (2,000-15,000V) to ionize the gas.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Bending Bench:<\/strong>\u00a0With ribbon burners (multiple fire jets) to heat glass evenly.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Crossfires &amp; Torches:<\/strong>\u00a0For detailed, localized bending.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Bombarding System:<\/strong>\u00a0A vacuum pump to evacuate air and purify the tube.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Safety Gear:<\/strong>\u00a0Didymium glasses (to see the glass&#8217;s true heat state), heat-resistant gloves, apron.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12578 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/smithers-neon.jpg\" alt=\"alt=&quot; make a neon light diy&quot;\" width=\"2016\" height=\"1512\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/smithers-neon.jpg 2016w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/smithers-neon-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/smithers-neon-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/smithers-neon-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/smithers-neon-1536x1152.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2016px) 100vw, 2016px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><strong>The Professional Process (Simplified):<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ol start=\"1\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Design &amp; Pattern:<\/strong>\u00a0The design is laid out as a full-size &#8220;pattern&#8221; on heat-resistant sheet.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Heating &amp; Bending:<\/strong>\u00a0The glass tube is heated over the ribbon burner until pliable (like taffy). Using the pattern as a guide, the artisan bends it by hand and with tools. This skill takes\u00a0<strong>years to master<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Electrode Attachment:<\/strong>\u00a0Electrodes are welded to each tube end.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Bombarding:<\/strong>\u00a0One electrode is connected to a high-voltage vacuum system. The tube is heated while evacuated, removing impurities and preparing the glass.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Filling &amp; Sealing:<\/strong>\u00a0The tube is filled with a precise amount of the chosen gas at low pressure. It is then sealed off under vacuum.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Aging &amp; Testing:<\/strong>\u00a0The tube is connected to a high-voltage transformer. The initial current &#8220;ages&#8221; the tube, stabilizing its electrical characteristics.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<h3><strong>\u26a0\ufe0f Critical Warning:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>This is not a safe beginner hobby.<\/strong>\u00a0It involves high voltage, extreme heat, working with mercury (in some phosphor processes), and handling pressurized\/implosive glass tubes.\u00a0<strong>Proper training under a master neon bender is essential.<\/strong><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><strong>Method 2: LED Neon Flex (The Modern DIY &amp; Commercial Solution)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">This is how 90% of modern &#8220;neon&#8221; signs are made. It&#8217;s safer, more energy-efficient, and achievable for skilled DIYers.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Materials Needed:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>LED Neon Flex Rope:<\/strong>\u00a0Silicone or PVC tubing with LEDs mounted on a flexible strip inside. Sold by the meter\/roll.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Power Supply:<\/strong>\u00a0A low-voltage (12V or 24V) DC driver.\u00a0<strong>Must match the voltage and wattage of your flex.<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Connectors:<\/strong>\u00a0Waterproof pin connectors, end caps, and mounting clips.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Controller (Optional):<\/strong>\u00a0For dimming, color-changing (RGB), or animation effects.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Backing Board:<\/strong>\u00a0Acrylic, PVC, or wood to mount the flex.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Tools:<\/strong>\u00a0Sharp scissors\/wire cutters, soldering iron (optional, if not using connectors), silicone sealant, measuring tape.<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11867 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/neon-tube.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1000\" height=\"1000\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/neon-tube.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/neon-tube-300x300.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/neon-tube-175x175.jpg 175w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/neon-tube-768x768.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/neon-tube-200x200.jpg 200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong>Step-by-Step DIY Guide:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<ol start=\"1\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Design &amp; Plan:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Sketch your design on paper, then create a 1:1 template on your backing board.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Calculate Power:<\/strong>\u00a0Measure the total length of flex needed. Multiply by its wattage-per-meter to find total wattage. Choose a power supply with\u00a0<strong>20% more capacity<\/strong>\u00a0(e.g., for 40W, use a 50W+ supply).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Prepare the Flex:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Cutting:<\/strong>\u00a0Most LED neon flex can be cut at marked points (usually every few LEDs or at scissors symbols). Cut\u00a0<strong>only<\/strong>\u00a0at these points with sharp tools.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Sealing Ends:<\/strong>\u00a0If not connecting immediately, seal cut ends with silicone and an end cap to waterproof.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Shaping &amp; Mounting:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Bending:<\/strong>\u00a0LED neon flex is highly flexible. Hand-bend it to follow your template. For\u00a0<strong>sharp 90\u00b0 corners<\/strong>, you can cut and reconnect with a corner connector, or use a hot air gun (on low) to gently warm the silicone for a tighter, permanent bend (<em>practice on a scrap first!<\/em>).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Mounting:<\/strong>\u00a0Use clear or matching mounting clips every 15-20 cm. Adhesive-backed clips stick to your backing board; the flex snaps in.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Electrical Connections:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Using Connectors (Easiest):<\/strong>\u00a0Slide pin connectors onto the flex&#8217;s copper pads. Ensure + and &#8211; match. Crimp or snap closed. Connect cables to your power supply.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Soldering (More Permanent):<\/strong>\u00a0Solder insulated wires to the pads. Cover connections with heat-shrink tubing and silicone for protection.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\"><strong>Finishing &amp; Installation:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Attach the backing board to your wall (using stand-offs for a &#8220;floating&#8221; look).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Plug in your power supply, hide wires in a channel, and\u00a0<strong>test!<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<hr \/>\n<h2><strong>Quick-Reference Comparison Table<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div class=\"ds-scroll-area _1210dd7 c03cafe9\">\n<div class=\"ds-scroll-area__gutters\">\n<div class=\"ds-scroll-area__horizontal-gutter\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-scroll-area__vertical-gutter\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Feature<\/th>\n<th><strong>Traditional Glass Neon<\/strong><\/th>\n<th><strong>LED Neon Flex (Faux Neon)<\/strong><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Authenticity<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>The original, warm, uniform glow.<\/td>\n<td>Bright, can have a &#8220;dotty&#8221; look if low-density.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Cost<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>High ($500-$3000+).<\/td>\n<td>Low to Medium ($150-$800).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>DIY Feasibility<\/strong><\/td>\n<td><strong>Not feasible.<\/strong>\u00a0Requires apprenticeship.<\/td>\n<td><strong>Highly feasible<\/strong>\u00a0for those with basic electrical skills.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Safety<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>High voltage, extreme heat, glass.\u00a0<strong>Professional only.<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Low voltage (12V\/24V), cool to touch, flexible.\u00a0<strong>DIY-safe.<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Durability<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Fragile (glass). Sensitive to weather.<\/td>\n<td>Very durable, often waterproof (IP67).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Flexibility<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Design is permanent once bent.<\/td>\n<td>Can be re-shaped somewhat; design is flexible.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Power Use<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>High.<\/td>\n<td>Very low (often 80%+ more efficient).<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Effects<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Single, static color (per tube).<\/td>\n<td>Often RGB with color-changing, dimming, animation.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<h3><strong>Recommendation for Beginners:<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Start with\u00a0<strong>LED Neon Flex<\/strong>. Companies like\u00a0<strong>Neonify, Neo Neon, or SoCal Neon<\/strong>\u00a0sell quality DIY kits with clear instructions. Begin with a simple, single-line word or shape to understand the process.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">For\u00a0<strong>true glass neon<\/strong>, appreciate it as an art form. If you wish to learn, seek out a\u00a0<strong>neon workshop or apprenticeship<\/strong>\u00a0at a local sign shop or art school. The craft is kept alive by passionate artisans, and hands-on training is the only real path.<\/p>\n<p class=\"ds-markdown-paragraph\">Whichever path you choose, you&#8217;re engaging with a legendary form of light that continues to captivate and illuminate our world.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-theme\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-flex _0a3d93b\">\n<div class=\"ds-flex _965abe9 _54866f7\">\n<div class=\"db183363 ds-icon-button ds-icon-button--m ds-icon-button--sizing-container\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n<div class=\"ds-icon-button__hover-bg\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-icon\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-focus-ring\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"db183363 ds-icon-button ds-icon-button--m ds-icon-button--sizing-container\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n<div class=\"ds-icon-button__hover-bg\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-icon\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-focus-ring\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"db183363 ds-icon-button ds-icon-button--m ds-icon-button--sizing-container\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n<div class=\"ds-icon-button__hover-bg\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-icon\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-focus-ring\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"db183363 ds-icon-button ds-icon-button--m ds-icon-button--sizing-container\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n<div class=\"ds-icon-button__hover-bg\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-icon\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-focus-ring\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"db183363 ds-icon-button ds-icon-button--m ds-icon-button--sizing-container\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\" aria-disabled=\"false\">\n<div class=\"ds-icon-button__hover-bg\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-icon\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-focus-ring\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"_189b4a0\">\n<div class=\"_4ce999d _42b9b3d\">\n<div class=\"ds-scroll-area _8dbd25b\">\n<div class=\"ds-scroll-area__gutters\">\n<div class=\"ds-scroll-area__horizontal-gutter\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"ds-scroll-area__vertical-gutter\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"_871cbca\">\n<div class=\"d72636e2\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"aaff8b8f\">\n<div class=\"_77cefa5 _3d616d3\">\n<div class=\"_020ab5b\">\n<div class=\"_24fad49\">\n<div class=\"ds-scroll-area__gutters\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"sws_supernormalaction\"><button on=\"tap:superwebshare-lightbox\" class=\"superwebshare_normal_button1 superwebshare-button-large superwebshare-button-default superwebshare_prompt superwebshare_button_svg\" style=\"color:#ffffff;background-color: #1e73be;\" ><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"superwebshare-svg\"  fill=\"currentColor\" viewBox=\"0 0 1000 1000\" stroke=\"currentColor\" stroke-width=\"0\"><path stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" d=\"M789.86,323.67c91.79,0,164.25-72.46,164.25-164.25S881.64,0,789.86,0S625.6,72.46,625.6,164.25c0,4.83,0,14.49,0,24.15L306.76,371.98c-24.15-24.15-57.97-33.82-96.62-33.82c-91.79,0-164.25,72.46-164.25,164.25s72.46,164.25,164.25,164.25c38.65,0,72.46-14.49,96.62-33.82L625.6,821.26c0,9.66,0,14.49,0,19.32c0,86.96,72.46,159.42,159.42,159.42s159.42-72.46,159.42-159.42s-67.63-159.42-154.59-159.42c-33.82,0-67.63,9.66-96.62,33.82L374.4,526.57c0-9.66,0-19.32,0-24.15s0-14.49,0-24.15l318.84-188.41C717.39,314.01,751.21,323.67,789.86,323.67z\" \/><\/svg><span>Share<\/span><\/button><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Share Creating that iconic neon glow involves two distinct paths: the\u00a0traditional, artisanal craft of bent glass tubes\u00a0and the\u00a0modern, accessible world of LED neon flex. Here\u2019s your guide to both. Method 1: Traditional Glass Neon (The Artisan&#8217;s Way) This is the&#133;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1406,"featured_media":12714,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1209],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-12711","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-neon-news"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v25.0 (Yoast SEO v26.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Create Neon Lights: A Guide to Real Glass &amp; LED Alternatives<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.smithersofstamford.com\/blog\/how-to-create-neon-lights-a-guide-to-real-glass-led-alternatives\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_GB\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Create Neon Lights: A Guide to Real Glass &amp; LED Alternatives\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Share Creating that iconic neon glow involves two distinct paths: the\u00a0traditional, artisanal craft of bent glass tubes\u00a0and the\u00a0modern, accessible world of LED neon flex. Here\u2019s your guide to both. 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