SWING ON THE SWAG TREND - Drape Those Pendant Lights With Style.
Easy-lovers, rejoice. Call it what you will; swag lighting or draped pendants, a DIY hack that has caught our eye.
What is swag lighting? Put simply, it requires you to use the same location of an original electrical box, ceiling fixture, or wall mount and hang a new cord from that spot with a hook—enabling you to install your pendant lamp or chandelier in a new location. You’ll have the light where you need it with a serious dose of eye-catching style.
OUR FOUR SIMPLE STEPS WILL SHOW YOU HOW TO SWAG A CHANDELIER OR PENDANT LIGHT IN NO TIME.
The Benefits Of A Swag Chandelier or Pendant
If you're looking to elevate your interior design game, swagging a chandelier or pendant light can lend some seriously good looks and benefits.
ADD LIGHT WHERE YOU NEED IT - swagging a light allows you to place it in areas where there may not be a power source or electrical wiring. This can be especially useful in rental properties or when you want to add lighting to a temporary space. Swag from a hook or over a ceiling joist; it’s that ‘oh so’ casual draping effect we are after.
EASY INSTALLATION - since you don't need to wire the light into the electrical system, swagging a light can be a quick and easy installation process that doesn't require a professional electrician.
DECORATIVE ELEMENT - swagging a light can also add a decorative element to a room. You can choose from a variety of chain or cord colors and styles to match your decor, and the draped cord can add a touch of visual interest to a space.
ADJUSTABLE LENGTHS - if you’re looking to anchor a room or soften up an awkward floor plan then swag lighting might just be your answer. Adjust your cord to the desired length so you can hang your pendant in those tricky spots where traditional fixtures don't reach.
CREATES A FOCAL POINT - what is it about these relaxed and loose lovelies that appeal to our stylish sensibilities? This effortless and affordable lighting sculpture adds texture, visual interest, and dimension.
We find a low-slung pendant creates an unexpected hero moment, while one hung too high will look twee and less creatively impactful. Like all design decisions, we suggest you don’t overplay your hand. Use this lighting style selectively; one or two of these moments at most.
It's important to note, however, that swagging a light does have some safety considerations. Make sure to choose a cord and plug that is rated for the wattage of the light fixture and avoid using extension cords or daisy-chaining multiple cords together. If in doubt seek the help of a professional electrician.
How To Swag A Chandelier Or Pendant Light In 4 Easy Steps
Are you curious about how to effectively style swag lights? Our Interior Designer is here to let the cat out of the bag and share her four basic steps, you'll be able to quickly install them - it's as simple as determining their height, selecting your flex, and affixing a hook! So round up your materials and get ready for an easy installation process with helpful guidance from us. Let's do this!
Assemble Your Swag Kit
You’ll need a swag kit that contains a screw, a toggle bolt, and a ceiling hook.
TOGGLE BOLT - is a type of fastener that is used to attach objects to hollow walls, ceilings, or other structures where there is no solid framing behind the surface. A toggle bolt consists of a threaded bolt attached to a pair of spring-loaded wings. The bolt is inserted through a small hole in the surface, and the wings are folded back for insertion. Once the bolt is through the surface, the wings spring open behind it, providing a wide contact area to distribute the weight of the object being attached.
As the bolt is tightened, the wings pull tight against the back of the surface, creating a strong anchor point that can support a significant amount of weight. This makes toggle bolts an ideal solution for hanging heavy objects like shelves, mirrors, or cabinets on hollow walls or ceilings.
CEILING HOOK OR SWAG HOOK - A ceiling hook plays an important role in swagging a light fixture as it provides a secure anchor point for the chain or cord used to suspend the fixture from the ceiling. The hook is screwed into the ceiling and serves as a support for the swagging hardware that holds the light fixture in place. This allows the fixture to hang securely from the ceiling while also providing an attractive way to route the cord or chain from the fixture to the electrical outlet.
Let’s Get Swagging
Now that you know the benefits of swag lighting, let's make some magic. Ready to add a touch of drama and style? Here’s everything that you need to know about how to swag a chandelier or pendant light.
Step 1 - Decide Where The Fixture Should Hang
Look for a an existing junction box and decide on the right location for your new chandelier or swag light.
For a visually stunning display, suspend your chandelier or pendant light in the center of any room for an incredible 7' drop from the floor.
To create a more intimate setting and bring focus to any kitchen table, dining table, or island - hang your fixture 30-34" above each surface. Instantly transform any space with this eye-catching design!
Step 2 - Figure Out The Height
Once you have found the perfect swag hook location, you will need to figure out the best height. Hold up a tape measure and eyeball how far down from the ceiling you want the fixture to hang (it’s helpful if you have another person around for this part). Lynda Gardener, the designer behind the Estate Trentham, brought an oversized industrial lantern down to the sofa in a sitting room, giving herself enough slack on the rope cord to add a charming loop at the top….simply divine!
Consider the height or length of your swag if it's a directional light fixture. The lower you go will affect how much the fixture will light up your whole space.
Deciding the height will also help you calculate how much chain you will need to purchase.
STEP 3 - Choose A Flex (lamp cord or chain)
Options abound in this department from colorful cords, twisted fabric, woven linen, and burlap along with rustic ropes and chain. Decide on how much flex you need, and then give yourself some wiggle room and allow 2 feet extra. This will give you some room to twist and play with the flex to create the casual looped effect you adore.
Step 4 - Install The Hook
Swag hooks anchor the flex. Look for old rusty metal pegs, industrial ceiling fittings, conduit hooks, and antique pulleys. Consider have an electrician install a dimmer switch to dial in those flattering looks.
Don't Forget About The Weight
It's crucial to ensure that the light fixture isn't too heavy for the swagging hardware you're using. If the fixture is too heavy, it could strain the chain or cord, causing it to break or fall. So, before you begin swagging a light fixture, check the weight limit of your hardware and the fixture's weight to ensure a safe and secure installation.
With the basics under our belts, we have found some seriously stylish ideas for perfect placement here. The key, we think to successfully nailing these looks is selecting the right-sized pendant and keeping the form simple. We are drawn to those rounded, evenly illuminated fixtures that allow the casual draping or the cord to play a leading role in the design.
Interior Styling Idea #1 - Table Lamp Alternative
Rather than relying on the same old conventional table lamp, why not try something more chic and unfettered - a swag light suspended from the ceiling is a fresh take on a traditional table lamp, but you can manipulate its length to find that perfect ambient lighting.
Interior Styling Idea #2 - Workspace Illumination
Whether looking to frame the view or add a little personality to your workspace, consider a swag light over your desk is a great option. Plus, with the right swag light, you can adjust the lighting to fit your needs and preferences, whether you need bright light for a task or a soft glow for some ambiance. And let's be real, who doesn't love a little mood lighting while they work?
Interior Styling Idea #3 - En Masse
Swag chandeliers over your dining room table bringing a touch of effortless chic to the space like you just threw it together effortlessly. Plus, it can create a really cozy ambiance with its warm, inviting glow. But the best part is how it adds a focal point to the table, drawing the eye and making the whole room feel more put together.
Interior Styling Idea #4 - Same Fixture Different Sizes & Heights
Are you having difficulty finding a way to make your electrical wiring work with the furniture layout above your dining table? Why not try this trick; swag two light fixtures over two hooks, setting each one at a different height. The black wires will draw attention and create a unique and dramatic look.
Interior Styling Idea #5 - Easy Street, Pre-Swagged Options
When it comes to lighting up your dining room in style, going for a pre-swagged light option can be a total game-changer. Sure, DIY-ing your own swag lamp might seem fun and all, but with a pre-swagged light, you can achieve that same chic draped look without any of the hassles.
Try these ideas and tips to bring some serious swag into your home! With the right flex, hooks, fixtures, and preferences you can make a statement in no time. Happy Swagging!
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