Thread: Easy spotlights for yard props

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I mentioned this light in my post on the full-size reaper, but I wanted to point out more explicitly that wal-mart has spotlights available that are solar powered w/ a ground stake built in for <$10 each. The light output is sufficient for spotting one item in the yard and the fact that no wiring is required makes them a nice, easy choice. They seem to last 4+ hours after a normal day of sunlight. I'm going to try putting something on them to add a color cast, but I don't have any gels so I'll have to be creative.

I'll try to add some pics shortly.

I've got 8 that I've purchased during the year from Wal-mart. I've thought about checking at a craft store for the green or red lens. They should have them. There should not be any problem with heat from the light since they don't produce that much radiant heat but will need to check it out.

Go hit a music store or DJ supply shop, for gels.

Or on the cheap, go find transparent colored wrapping paper. I've even used plastic shopping bags from certain stores.

Agree on the fact that heat shouldn't be an issue. I've heard colored transparent notebook dividers are cheap...

Good idea as long as they are big enough to cover the entire lens and be held in place by whatever means you use.

Originally Posted by lucynt

Agree on the fact that heat shouldn't be an issue. I've heard colored transparent notebook dividers are cheap...

What a great idea!

I've always had a hard time finding transparent notebook dividers though. Most of the ones I've found are frosted translucent. I actually try to grab things that resemble colored clear sheets of plastic, since they're oddly hard to find.

Check the toy section of dollar stores to see if anything has clear colored sheets you can use. I'm trying to think of a specific thing I've seen in stores but can't come up with anything. Not many craft stores carry acetate films anymore but you may be able to find clear stencil films you would use to make custom stencils. I've seen pink and blue. Thin CD cases sometimes come in multicolor packs. You could probably cut it into an octagon shape with a box cutter or plastic cutter blade (score, then snap, wear gloves). If you happen to have some inkjet transparencies lying around, you could simply print a blob of color the size of your lens. Also, maybe call or go into a local sign shop and see if they have scraps of clear colored vinyl lying around.

I actually hit Wal-mart last night and found just what was needed: A 5-pack of colored translucent pocket folders in orange, green, purple, blue, and yellow. Price: just $1.50. I cut out circles and placed them in the solar spotlights (picked up a couple more for $7 each on sale. Can't say enough about these things as they replace having to provide wiring plus a timer) on my hanging reapers and the fresh new Wal-greens bucky welcoming guests on the front step. btw, my bucky had a broken connection at the knee, but a white zip tie fixed it right up. I couldn't see giving it up over that.