Hey everyone, I wanted to share my recent DIY project with you all. I’ve been really impressed with the Philips Hue Iris, but the price always kept me from jumping in. So, I decided to try making my own version for a fraction of the cost! 
The Goal
I set out to create something that would cost around $55, and hopefully even less with a few tweaks. After some research, I found three main components that would make this project possible:
- A Pendant Lamp Cord Set - I went with a 15.5” white cord with hooks and mounting clips. It’s simple but effective.
- 3D Printed Lamp Shades - I found a great design on Thingiverse and got it printed. I tested both PLA and PETG filaments, and while PLA is more translucent, PETG looked nicer when lit up.
- A LIFX Bulb - I’m using a LIFX Original for testing, and it’s been working perfectly so far.
The Process
Printing the lamp shades was an adventure. It took a few tries to get them just right, but they’re close enough for testing. I also had to consider heat issues with PLA, but initial tests seem okay. I added an end cap to act as a diffuser, much like the Hue Iris does.
Results
Here’s a quick comparison between my DIY lamp and the Hue Iris. While the light output isn’t identical, it’s definitely close enough for my needs. The PETG filament shade on the left and the Hue Iris on the right:
One thing I’m still concerned about is heat management, especially with PLA. I might need to add some air holes to the end cap to help with that.
Why This Matters
For anyone looking to experiment with smart lighting but hesitating due to costs, this DIY approach could be a great way to get started. It’s also been a fantastic learning experience for me, from 3D printing to understanding light diffusion.
Looking for Feedback
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Have you tried any DIY smart lighting projects? What materials or methods would you recommend? I’m also curious if others have experience with different filaments or bulb combinations.
Thanks for reading, and happy tinkering! 