how do you make your own switchplates? do you use fabric?

Question

im decorating for my baby's room and i wanted it to be hello kitty design and i know you can make it outta fabric. can you give me a website that would show me how to make my own.?

Answer 1

I have done this with wallpaper and decorative paper -- like the stuff they sell for scrap booking. Any flat switch plate will work. I usually buy the cheap metal ones from the home improvement box store. They're under $1 each and it's a really easy project.

Position the paper over the switch plate and fold over the edges, so you get an idea of the size. Add 1/2 to 1 inch extra around the folded edges & cut out the paper. Then lightly sand the face of the switchplate to dull the surface (you don't need to do this if you're using plastic switchplates.) Apply spray adhesive or mod podge to the switchplate. Postition the paper and fold the edge. Secure edges with glue or Mod Podge. You will want to make mitre cuts at each corner so that the corners lay flat -- just cut the corner on a diagonal. Then poke a small hole & cut out the toggle. I usually cut these corners on a diagonal & fold them to the back--it looks nicer. Next, cover the front of the switchplate with several coats of Mod Podge. This gives the paper a bit of shine and also allows for easy cleaning.

The beauty of this project is that you can use any paper. Check craft stores for decorative papers. You can even use wrapping paper. You can also make matching outlet covers.

Good luck and have fun with it!

Answer 2

Fabric switchplates would be too flammable and not water-resistant enough to be acceptable. It would be better to take a plastic or metal switchplate and decorate it on the outside if you want to do your own. There's probably thousands of different designs you could buy, though.

How about printing a design of your own making and placing that over a switchplate?
http://www.sharewareplaza.com/Switch-Plate-Factory-download_26710.html

Another DIY switchplate decoration idea
http://www.diynetwork.com/diy/home/article/0,2019,DIY_13952_2276058,00.html

Answer 3

you just cover the existing switch plates with fabric. Remove the cover and cut the cloth to fit over and behind it. spray the face with adhesive apply the fabric, let it dry and trim.

Answer 4

buy a wooden switchplate, sand it down and then you can paint any design or color you want. Wood holds paint much more effectively than plastic. I agree with above answer--never put fabric near live wiring.

Answer 5

I have seen only clear plastic face plates that are made to put pictures or patterned paper into. They are available at hardware stores and home centers.