Creating a wooden floating TV stand with LED lights combines functionality with modern aesthetics. It not only enhances the look of your living space but also adds practical storage and lighting. Here’s a detailed guide to building your own floating TV stand with LED lights.
Materials and Tools Needed:
Materials:
- Wood planks (oak, pine, or plywood)
- Wood glue
- Screws
- Wood filler
- LED light strip (remote-controlled RGB is a good choice)
- Power supply for LED strip
- Brackets or floating TV stand mounting hardware
- Sandpaper (120, 220 grit)
- Stain or paint (optional)
- Polyurethane finish (optional)
- Wood screws
Tools:
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill with various bit sizes
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Clamps
- Jigsaw (if needed for cut-outs)
- Paintbrush (if finishing)
- Safety glasses and hearing protection
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Design and Measurements
Start by determining the dimensions of the floating TV stand. Consider the size of your TV and the space available in your room. Typically, the stand’s width should be slightly wider than the TV for balance, with enough space to accommodate entertainment devices like gaming consoles, DVD players, or streaming devices.
- Length: The stand should be at least the width of the TV or slightly longer.
- Depth: 12–18 inches is ideal for most TV stands.
- Height: Floating stands typically hover 6–10 inches off the floor for a sleek look.
Tip: Sketch out the design, including the sections for storage, cable management, and LED placement. Make sure to mark where the LED strip will be installed, usually along the bottom or back edge.
2. Cut the Wood Pieces
Using a circular saw or table saw, cut the wood into the following pieces:
- Top Piece: This is the surface where your TV will sit. The width and length depend on your TV size.
- Side Panels: These will give the stand depth and support. Cut two panels to the desired depth of your stand.
- Shelf or Interior Pieces: These are optional for internal storage. Cut them to size based on your design.
Tip: Sand the edges of the pieces to remove any roughness before assembling.
3. Assemble the Frame
Use wood glue to attach the side panels to the top piece, creating a box shape. You can secure them further using screws from the inside, ensuring they do not show. If you’re adding a bottom shelf or other compartments, now is the time to insert them.
Tip: Clamp the pieces together while the glue dries to ensure a tight bond.
4. Install the LED Lights
- Prepare the LED strip: Measure and cut the LED strip to the appropriate length. Most LED strips come with adhesive backs, making installation easier.
- Positioning: Attach the LED strip to the bottom or back edge of the stand. If the strip is on the back, make sure the light faces outward, creating a subtle ambient glow on the wall.
- Wiring: Ensure the wire for the LED light is neatly concealed. Drill a small hole in the back of the stand to run the wire through to the power supply. The power supply can be hidden in the compartment of the stand if there’s enough space.
5. Attach the Floating Mounting Brackets
Since this is a floating TV stand, it needs to be securely mounted to the wall. Use floating TV stand brackets or a sturdy mounting system. Mark the wall where the stand will be placed, ensuring the brackets are level.
- Drill holes into the wall and secure the brackets with anchors if necessary.
- Attach the floating mount to the wall and ensure it’s level.
- Hang the stand on the mounted brackets, ensuring it sits securely.
6. Finish the Wood
Once the structure is assembled and the LED lights are in place, you can choose to finish the wood. Staining or painting the wood will add a polished look.
- Apply wood stain or paint in your desired finish.
- Let the finish dry and cure completely before handling.
- For added durability and shine, apply a layer of polyurethane to seal the wood.
7. Cable Management
To keep the stand looking clean and organized, consider adding cable management options. You can drill holes in the back panel of the stand for cables to pass through. Alternatively, use adhesive cable clips or a cable tray under the stand to keep cords out of sight.
8. Final Adjustments and Testing
- Test the LED lights by plugging them into the power supply and using the remote control to adjust the color and brightness.
- Check the stability of the stand by gently pressing down on it.
- Place your TV and other items onto the stand and ensure everything is well-organized.
Conclusion:
Building a wooden floating TV stand with LED lights can be a rewarding DIY project that adds both style and functionality to your living room. Not only will it elevate the aesthetics of your space, but it also provides a modern solution for organizing your media equipment and adding subtle lighting effects.
If you’re looking to take your woodworking skills to the next level and learn more advanced techniques, consider checking out Teds Woodworking Course. With detailed plans and step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to create stunning projects like this and many others. Teds Woodworking Course here.