I’ve always been fascinated by the Philips Hue Iris, but the price tag has always been a bit steep for me. So, I decided to take matters into my own hands and create a DIY version that not only fits my budget but also offers some unique features. Here’s my journey and what I’ve learned along the way!
The DIY Approach
I started by gathering three main components:
- A Pendant/Lamp Shade Cord: I opted for a 15.5” white hanging light cord with hooks and mounting clips. It’s simple, durable, and provides a clean look.
- 3D Printed Lamp Shades: I used a design from Thingiverse, which required a 3D printer with at least a 7x7x7 build volume. Printing was a bit challenging, especially getting the fit just right, but the results were worth it. I experimented with both PLA and PETG filaments, and while PLA was more translucent, PETG provided a smoother finish and better heat resistance.
- LIFX Bulbs: These bulbs were the perfect choice for their versatility and compatibility with smart home systems. I used a LIFX Original for testing, and it performed exceptionally well.
The Assembly Process
The assembly was straightforward but required some patience, especially with the 3D printing. I printed two lamp shades—one in PETG and one in PLA—to compare their performance. The PETG shade ended up being my favorite due to its durability and aesthetic appeal. I also added a small end cap to diffuse the light, mimicking the design of the Philips Hue Iris.
Testing and Results
Testing the setup was both exciting and enlightening. I compared the DIY lamp shades with the Philips Hue Iris and found that while the Hue Iris had a slight edge in light diffusion, my DIY version held its own, especially considering the cost difference. The LIFX bulb performed admirably, providing consistent light output and smooth color transitions.
Challenges and Solutions
One concern I had was heat management, especially with PLA filament. However, after testing, I found that the PLA shade held up well, though I would recommend adding some airflow channels for better heat dissipation in the future.
Final Thoughts
This DIY project was a fantastic way to customize my smart lighting setup without breaking the bank. It also gave me a deeper appreciation for the engineering behind products like the Philips Hue Iris. If you’re looking to save money while still enjoying the benefits of smart lighting, I highly recommend giving this DIY approach a try!
If you’ve attempted similar DIY projects or have tips to share, I’d love to hear about them in the comments below. Let’s continue to innovate and customize our smart homes together!