Ways to Decorate Light Switch Plates that Have Diagonal Screw Holes

Not all light switches are alike. I found out the hard way after moving into a mobile home that I am currently updating. It was manufactured in 1979, and many things set it apart from stick built houses of the same era. Some of the cheapest details were made even cheaper than necessary. Take for instance the plastic switch plates. They are typically less than a dollar, but these must have been less than fifty cents. They have two diagonal screw holes, and standard replacements do not fit. Instead of searching high and low for something that might not even exist, I have chosen to decorate the existing covers. Consider these options for decorating plastic mobile home switch plates, and transform them with unique and tasteful embellishments that will set them apart from the rest.

Cover Them with Wallpaper or another Type of Decorative Wrap

One of the easiest ways to decorate odd plastic light switch plates is with wallpaper or border. In any case, do not buy an entire roll. Search eBay or shop the bargain bin at a local wallpaper outlet. Otherwise, consider using wrapping paper. After removing the switch plates from the wall, apply decoupage medium and paper of the appropriate size. Decoupage the finished covers, and do not reinstall them until they are fully dry. The design options are as endless as the number of available of patterns.

Use Glue Dots to Attach a Standard Decorative Cover

Standard cast resin, plastic or painted plaster light switch plates can be used to cover old ones with diagonal screw holes. Screws are not required to attach them to decorative covers. Permanent adhesive is not recommended since they might eventually need to be removed. Use glue dots to attach a decorative cover. Add as many as necessary to keep it in place. If the empty screw holes ruin the design of the cover, fill them with polymer clay in a matching color.

Attach Tiny Glass Pebbles

Consider doing something really unique when looking for ways to decorate plastic light switch plates that have diagonal holes. Their position will not matter. Use E6000 adhesive to attach tiny glass pebbles. They can be found in the candle supply section of discount stores and craft stores, and they come in a gorgeous blend of colors. If you want to do it the fast and easy way, cover the light switch plates with a thin layer of adhesive, and sprinkle on the pebbles. Lightly press them into place, and let the adhesive dry for several hours before reinstalling the covers.

Source: Professional Home Decorating Experience and Advanced Art Education