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A surprisingly simple DIY décor idea is taking over social media, as creators show how ordinary tin trays and basic string lights can be transformed into glowing wall art that looks far more expensive than it actually is.
The viral trend started when home décor enthusiasts began experimenting with everyday kitchen items and turning them into aesthetic lighting pieces. One of the most shared versions involves piercing small holes into metal trays and weaving warm LED string lights through them to create a soft glowing pattern.
The result? A budget-friendly wall decoration that looks like boutique home décor — but costs only a fraction of store-bought alternatives.
Why this DIY trick is going viral
The trend is gaining attention for three main reasons:
- It uses cheap, easy-to-find materials
- It requires no advanced crafting skills
- It creates a warm, aesthetic glow perfect for bedrooms or living spaces
Home décor creators say the appeal lies in how accessible the project is. Unlike complex DIY furniture builds or expensive lighting installations, this idea can be completed in under an hour with minimal tools.
Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and Pinterest have helped spread the trend rapidly, with thousands of users recreating the look in their own homes.
Materials needed
To try this viral décor trick, you typically need:
- 1–2 metal tin trays (round or rectangular)
- LED string lights (battery-powered preferred)
- A small nail, pin, or drill
- Tape or hooks for mounting
- Optional: paint, markers, or decorative stickers
Many creators recommend using lightweight aluminum trays because they are easier to pierce and shape.
Step-by-step guide: How the trick works
The process is simple but requires a bit of patience for clean results.
1. Plan your design
Before piercing anything, decide on a pattern. Some popular ideas include:
- star shapes
- hearts
- initials or letters
- abstract glowing patterns
Light pencil marks can help guide where holes should go.
2. Pierce small holes in the tray
Using a nail, pin, or small drill, carefully create evenly spaced holes in the tray. These holes will act as entry and exit points for the string lights.
Creators recommend placing the tray on a soft surface like wood or thick cardboard to avoid bending it too much during this step.
3. Thread the string lights
Once the holes are ready, slowly weave the LED string lights through the tray. You can:
- push lights through every hole for a dense glow
- skip holes for a dotted lighting effect
- wrap lights loosely for a softer aesthetic
Battery-powered lights are preferred so the decoration can be hung anywhere without needing a nearby outlet.