I love a project that looks boutique-store fancy but takes less time than making a weeknight pasta, and this bedroom luminary is exactly that. We’re turning simple copper-toned mesh pencil cups into glowing accent lights by dropping in battery puck lights and finishing them with rich velvet ribbon, so the mesh throws a soft patterned glow and the ribbon makes the whole thing feel intentional instead of office-supply-ish.
If you want a cozy bedroom upgrade without wiring, drilling, or a full afternoon of crafting, this is such a good one. I’m especially fond of projects like this during busy workweeks, because you can make a matching pair in under an hour and instantly make a nightstand, dresser, or reading nook feel warmer and more polished.
Materials
Instructions
1. Wipe each mesh pencil cup inside and out so the ribbon and felt pads stick well, then let them dry completely.
2. Measure and cut two ribbon lengths at 28 inches each, which gives enough to wrap the cups fully and create a generous bow instead of a tiny knot.
3. Add three adhesive felt pads to the bottom rim of each pencil cup, spacing them evenly so the metal sits flat and won’t scratch your nightstand.
4. Run a tiny dot of hot glue on the back side of one cup near the upper third, press the ribbon end into place, and start wrapping it around the cup, weaving slightly over the mesh texture so it stays level.
5. Overlap the ribbon ends neatly on the back, glue them down, then tie the remaining ribbon into a full bow or soft double-knot with tails; repeat on the second cup so the pair matches.
6. Test each puck light before inserting it, making sure the batteries are fresh and the light is set to warm white rather than a cool blue-toned setting.
7. Drop one puck light into each pencil cup with the light facing upward, and center it on the bottom so the glow spreads evenly through the mesh sides.
8. If the puck light shifts too much, add a pea-size dot of hot glue or a small loop of removable mounting tape under it to keep it centered, but leave the battery compartment accessible.
9. Turn the lights on in a dim room and adjust the ribbon bows so they face forward, then rotate the cups until the mesh pattern looks even and the brightest glow shows from the prettiest angle.
10. Style the finished luminaries as a pair on bedside tables, a dresser tray, or a bedroom shelf, leaving a little space around them so the mesh-cast glow really stands out.
Variations & Tips
For a taller glow: Use slightly taller mesh pencil cups and the same size puck lights to cast a longer lattice pattern across the bedroom wall.
For a softer look: Line the inside of each cup with a loose sleeve of vellum or tracing paper before adding the light, which diffuses the glow and makes it feel more like a tiny lamp.
For renter-friendly stability: Skip permanent glue under the puck light and use a small ring of removable mounting tape so you can change batteries easily later.
For a matched bedroom palette: Swap the burgundy velvet for blush, ivory, navy, or forest green ribbon while keeping the warm white puck lights; that warm tone is what makes these look restful instead of harsh.
Placement tip: I like these best where you naturally want low light at the end of the day, like a nightstand, vanity corner, or reading nook, because the glow is cozy and decorative rather than bright enough for task lighting.
Giftable version: Make a set of two, tie the bows extra full, and include spare batteries; it feels surprisingly thoughtful for something so simple, which is honestly my favorite kind of DIY.