How Do You Build A Backlit Light Box?
For a photographer, illustrator or painter, a light box is an essential and expensive tool. While a homemade unit won’t give you the color accuracy necessary for magazine editing, building your own simple light box will save some cash that you can put to use on film, ink or paint. Find a light source that suits your needs. A battery-powered, domed safety light is perfect for smaller light boxes. For larger, brighter boxes, use a workman’s utility light and a high-wattage bulb. Choose a sturdy box. Shoe boxes are too flimsy, but heavy cardboard boxes will work fine for smaller units. For a larger, more permanent light box, use a structure made of wood or metal. Any box you choose should be open on at least one end. Buy an opaque white lighting cover—the acrylic kind that covers fluorescent lights in offices—available at most hardware stores. If possible, choose a cover with a non-textured, even surface. The cover should be big enough to occlude the open end of your box. Use your box
