What could I do with old metal shop lights?

Danielle
by Danielle
I have 2 old 4’ flourescent shop lights that no longer work. I was looking at them and thought they were kind of a neat shape and that I should be able to do something creative with the metal housing, but other than maybe succulent planters I can‘t really think what that “something” might be. I know you hometalkers have miles of creativity to spare so all ideas are welcome!
  8 answers
  • AmAtHome AmAtHome on Mar 22, 2018

    I was also going to suggest planters! You could maybe hang them by chains and use as storage shelves - what does the inside look like? If it's pretty flat, they might be cool as shelf storage for small jars, cans, bottles, etc.

  • Geew Geew on Mar 22, 2018

    This is a stab in the dark (no pun intended).

    Gut the inside, paint the fixture to your preference, drill holes for hanging upside down and use as a shelf? for potted plants perhaps?

  • Jeanette S Jeanette S on Mar 22, 2018

    These would make excellent trays for planting herbs and shallow rooted plants...maybe things like spinach.

  • Pamela Allen Pamela Allen on Mar 22, 2018

    Take out the insides so your only left with the metal light cover.Turn upside down, drill holes in the edge sides and attach a rope or chain. Fill with potting soil and plants, hang up and enjoy.

  • Jcraw Jcraw on Mar 22, 2018

    I would paint it black after drilling appropriate holes and get some fun string lights (Edison type, or whatever) and hang it wherever I wanted, indoor or out.

    Obviously, if you want more reflective light, the insides should be silver. Use appropriate paint to consider heat of the bulbs . Good old Rustoleam makes a high-heat spray for about $5.

  • Jewellmartin Jewellmartin on Mar 22, 2018

    Hang it from a tree branch as a bird and squirrel feeder. Might be good as a dog bowl, too!

  • Rhonda S Rhonda S on Mar 25, 2018

    It would make a industrial Punk sofa table if you added legs and painted it black. If you could find appropriate brackets you could mount it on the wall in a children's room to hold toys in an aerospace. On that subject perhaps a bookshelf in a children's room as long as the books aren't too heavy. And of course I love all this suggestions of Planter's. You might fill it with concrete and use something to block out space down the center that could later be removed to create a candle holder or succulent planter for the center of an outdoor table.

  • Gom16505195 Gom16505195 on Mar 25, 2018

    Get rid of the ballast and all wiring in ballast compartment ,drill 3 or more 7/8 holes on cover attach 3 or more individual bulb

    holders wire them in parallel . ( If you are not familiar with electrical circuits , please consult someone that is qualified or look it up in YOU Tube )