How to Diffuse LED Strip? 20+ Ideas for DIY Projects

The direct light from LED strips can sometimes be harsh or uneven, creating unwanted shadows and glare. To enhance the quality of light and create a more ambient atmosphere, diffusing LED strips is an effective solution. In this article, we will look into 20+ common methods on how to diffuse LED strip at home as well as create a more even and softer glow to reduce hotspots and make the light appear more uniform.

1. Apply LED Extrusion Channels with Diffuser Covers

Using LED extrusion channels by placing the LED strip inside an aluminum channel with a frosted or milky plastic cover is the most effective way to diffuse LED strips, as it spreads the light evenly, reduces hotspots, and creates clean, professionally finished LED lighting.

• Space: This kind of cover is suitable for a softer light or a clear one for more direct illumination in spaces such as the kitchen, living room, staircase, ceiling, garden, and patio,…
• Materials: LED extrusion channels (aluminum or plastic profiles), diffuser covers, LED strips,…
• Skill level: Beginners with a little patience and preparation

Pros	Cons
Customizable designs Easy installation Aesthetic appeal Additional protection for the LED strips	Heat issues High cost

2. Increase Distance from Surface

Another method on how to diffuse LED strips is increasing the distance of LED strips from a surface by simply positioning the LED strip further away from the surface it's illuminating. This method can be beneficial for various reasons, such as achieving better light diffusion, reducing glare, or creating specific lighting effects since the further the distance, the more the light will spread out before hitting the surface, reducing the appearance of individual LEDs. 

• Space: This method can be applied in various spaces, such as cove lighting, under-cabinet lighting, or architectural features,…
• Materials: LED strips, spacer bars (aluminum, plastic, or steel), mounting brackets from metal (aluminum, steel) or durable plastic
• Skill level: Intermediate

Pros	Cons
Flexibility in design Various lighting effects Reduced heat impact	Uneven light distribution Complex installation Cost considerations

3. Add Frosted Acrylic or Plexiglass Panels

In this method, a frosted sheet would be placed in front of the LED strip to diffuse the light. This method is commonly used in lightboxes and backlit signs as an excellent way to enhance light diffusion, reduce glare, and achieve a smooth, even illumination.

• Space: Adding frosted acrylic or plexiglass panels to diffuse light from LED strips can be applied effectively across various spaces, including residential, commercial, public, architectural, and custom settings,…
• Materials: LED strips, frosted acrylic or plexiglass panels, mounting hardware and adhesive
• Skill: Intermediate

Pros	Cons
Aesthetic appeal Customizable sizes and shapes Durability and lightweight	Cost considerations Potential for scratching Installation complexity Heat considerations

4. Use Diffusing Film or Tape

This method focuses on applying a diffusing film or tape directly on the LED strip or on a clear cover placed over it to soften the light without adding much bulk and to achieve a softer, more even light from LED strips. This approach can help reduce hotspots, eliminate harsh shadows, and create a more pleasant and comfortable illumination.

• Space: Residential, commercial, public, architectural, or custom settings
• Materials: LED strips, diffusing film (sheets of frosted or matte film) and diffusing tape (adhesive-backed tape)
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Pros	Cons
Ease of application Cost-effectiveness Versatility Non-permanent solution	Durability issues Limited diffusion effectiveness Heat sensitivity

5. Install Multiple Layers of Diffusion

Using multiple layers of diffusion by combining different diffusing methods, such as using a diffuser cover along with frosted acrylic or a diffusing film, can enhance the quality of light from LED strips, offering improved softness and uniformity. This method is particularly useful for creating a more even and diffuse light source, minimizing hotspots and harsh shadows.

• Space: A range of spaces from residential, commercial, public, architectural to custom projects
• Materials: LED strips and diffusing materials such as film, tape acrylic or plexiglass panels
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Pros	Cons
Customizable light effects Flexible application of materials	Increased complexity Additional costs Heat buildup potentials

6. Opt for Higher Density LED Strips

Higher-density LED strips are LED strips that have a greater number of LEDs per meter. This reduces the gaps between LEDs, making it easier to diffuse the light evenly. Therefore, these strips can be a great solution, providing a more even, less harsh illumination and uniform light output compared to lower-density options. 

• Space: Suitable for areas where clear and consistent illumination is needed, such as workspaces or decorative purposes in residential and commercial spaces
• Materials: LED strips and installation materials such as plastic clips, metal brackets, or 3M tape
• Skill level: Intermediate to advanced

Pros	Cons
Versatility Better heat dissipation Enhanced aesthetics	Higher cost Increased power consumption Installation complexity

7. Use Backlighting with Reflective Surfaces

Installing the LED strip on a reflective surface is by far the simplest technique to help spread the light before it passes through an available diffuser like a mirror. This can be particularly effective in creating even illumination.

• Space: For the flexibility and availability of the diffuser, backlighting can be applied in many spaces, from residential or commercial spaces to architectural design or event and display scenarios
• Materials: Reflective surfaces like mirrors or reflective panels, LED strips, mirror clips, brackets,…
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Pros	Cons
Versatility Reasonable cost	Heat management Maintenance

8. Do a Recessed Installation

Embed the LED strip in a groove or channel in the surface you’re lighting, and then cover it with a diffusing material. The recess helps in blending the light before it reaches the diffusing cover.

• Space: Recessed LED strip installations with diffusers can be effectively applied in various spaces and lighting, including ceiling cove, under-cabinet, shelf, or staircase lighting as well as architectural details and trim
• Materials: Recessed channels or profiles (aluminum, plastic channel, or custom profiles); LED strips, mounting materials like adhesives, clips, brackets, screws, and anchors,…
• Skill level: Intermediate to advanced

Pros	Cons
The modern look of the minimalist effect Versatility Improved safety and functionality	Installation complexity Cost considerations Heat management Maintenance challenges

9. Use a Lightbox

A lightbox, often referred to as a light panel or backlight box, helps diffuse the intense light from LED strips, resulting in a smooth and uniform illumination. Thus, installing the LED strip inside a lightbox with diffusing panels is a common method to promote better diffusion.

• Space: Various spaces from residential spaces like living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and hallways to commercial and public ones like retail stores, offices, restaurants, hotels, museums, and galleries,…
• Materials: LED strips, lightbox frame, and structure: aluminum, plastic, or custom frames; diffuser panels: frosted acrylic, polycarbonate, opal glass, or diffusion fabrics; mounting materials: adhesives, mounting clips, brackets, screws, and anchors
• Skill level: Intermediate to advanced

Pros	Cons
Enhanced functionality Durability Versatility	Installation complexity Cost considerations Maintenance challenges

10. Use a Translucent Material

Position a translucent material, like frosted glass or semi-transparent plastic, between the LED strip and the viewer. This will scatter the light and soften its appearance.

• Space: Spaces of residential rooms as well as in architectural and design applications such as feature walls, backlit panels, custom fixtures, or specialty and temporary installations like vent lighting or seasonal decorations
• Materials: LED strips, translucent materials such as acrylic panels, polycarbonate sheets, or polyester film
• Skill level: Intermediate

Pros	Cons
Flexibility Durability	Installation complexity Cost considerations Limited adjustability

11. Place Milk Glass or Opal Glass

Both milk glass and opal glass are excellent choices for diffusing LED strips, offering high-quality light diffusion and a sophisticated aesthetic. The method focuses on placing these two materials in front of the LED strip since they are excellent at diffusing light and are commonly used in lamp designs.

• Space: Different spaces and considering the specific requirements of each setting, especially for ceiling fixtures, pendant lights, or sconces where a soft, diffused light is desired
• Materials: Milk glass or opal glass, LED strips and mounting materials,…
• Skill: Intermediate

Pros	Cons
Even diffusion Durability Versatility Elegant look	Weight Fragility High cost

12. Install the LED Strip Indirectly

Positioning the LED strip so that it faces away from the viewer, such as against a wall or ceiling is the easiest way to diffuse the LED strip since the light reflects off the surface before reaching the eyes, naturally diffusing it. Indirect lighting hides the source of the light, providing a softer, more diffused illumination.

• Space: Spaces behind crown molding, in recessed areas, within light coving, or in wall niches
• Materials: Mounting materials like mounting clips and channels; LED strips and diffusers
• Skill: Beginner

Pros	Cons
Flexibility in design Concealment of light sources Reduced eye strain Energy efficiency	Installation complexity Heat build-up Cost considerations Limited brightness control

13. Apply 3D Printed Diffuser

Using a 3D printer to create custom diffusers tailored to your specific LED strip and application is another solution to diffuse LED strips. You can print diffusers with varying thicknesses and patterns for different effects, which provides a high degree of customization and control over the lighting effect, making it an excellent choice for unique or specialized lighting setups.

• Space: Spaces like ceilings and crown molding; wall niches and recesses; light coving or staircases and architectural features
• Materials: Printing filaments like PLA, ABS, PETG, translucent/transparent, flexible filaments, LED strips and materials for installation and mounting
• Skill level: Intermediate 

Pros	Cons
Customization Improved Light Diffusion Ease of Production	Material limitations Installation complexity Maintenance and cleaning

14. Place Fabric or Cloth Diffusion

Using fabric or cloth to diffuse LED strips is an effective and flexible way to achieve softer, more even lighting in various applications. This method involves placing fabric or cloth materials in front of or around the LED strips to diffuse and spread the light more evenly.

• Space: Ceilings and wall fixtures; backlighting and light panels; under cabinet and shelf lighting
• Materials: Woven fabric, knit fabric, or backlit laser-cut textile and LED strips
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Pros	Cons
Cost-effectiveness Flexibility and customization Easy installation	Maintenance requirements Durability issues Light absorption

15. Use a Frosted Tube or Pipe

Frosted tubes or pipes are typically made of materials like acrylic or polycarbonate, which are treated to diffuse light and reduce glare. Encasing the LED strip inside a frosted plastic or glass tube can help to distribute the light more evenly around the circumference, reducing direct light spots.

• Space: Ceilings, walls, under cabinets and shelves, backlighting and light panels, architectural features, commercial and retail spaces
• Materials: Acrylic, polycarbonate, glass tube, LED strips and mounting materials
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Pros	Cons
Versatility Ease of installation Durability	Cost considerations Maintenance requirements Potential for scratching Limited customization Heat management

16. Use Sanded Clear Plastic

Sanded plastic works by scattering the light as it passes through, which helps to reduce harshness and eliminate hotspots. The method aims at sanding a clear plastic sheet or surface to create a frosted effect, then placing it in front of the LED strip for diffusion.

• Space: Not only in residential and commercial space but also in architectural and landscape lighting
• Materials: LED strips, acrylic, polycarbonate, plexiglass, or any other flexible plastic and sandpaper
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Pros	Cons
Acceptable diffusion effect Cost-effectiveness Ease of installation Durability	Limited control over directionality Surface vulnerability Heat buildup Light transmission reduction

17. Cover by Honeycomb Grids

Honeycomb grids are commonly used in lighting to control the direction of light and reduce glare, and they can be particularly effective in diffusing the harshness of LED strips. These grids can help scatter the light emitted by the LEDs in multiple directions, reducing glare and creating a diffused effect.

• Space: Home lighting, workspaces, photography and filmmaking, and architectural and landscape lighting
• Materials: Honeycomb grid, LED strips, and mounting materials
• Skill level: Beginner

Pros	Cons
Versatility Energy efficiency	Limited flexibility Aesthetic impact

18. Install Frosted Glass Blocks

Installing frosted glass blocks to diffuse LED strips can create an attractive, soft lighting effect since placing the LED strip behind frosted glass blocks can scatter the light as it passes through and diffuse it effectively.

• Space: Wall installations, partitions, or decorative panels
• Materials: Frosted glass blocks, LED strips, mounting frame, or brackets
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Pros	Cons
Effective diffusion Durability Versatility Ease of cleaning and maintenance	Weight and handling High cost Light transmission reduction Limited flexibility

19. Create Plush Toys

Creating plush toys to diffuse LED strips involves designing a toy that incorporates both lighting and comfort. By using soft fabrics for the exterior, diffusing materials for even light distribution, and secure placement of LED strips and power supplies, you can create a functional and attractive plush toy that provides a gentle, soothing light. 

• Space: Children’s rooms, living rooms, nurseries, playrooms, dorm rooms, reading nooks, office spaces, and as personalized gifts
• Materials: Plush Fabric (faux fur, minky fabric, or any soft, fluffy material for the exterior of the toy), LED Strips, and sewing supplies
• Skill level: Intermediate

Pros	Cons
Versatility Safety Interactive features	Durability Limited light intensity Power supply constraints High cost

20. Utilize Ping Pong Balls

Utilizing ping pong balls to diffuse LED strips involves using the balls as a medium to soften and scatter the light emitted by the LED strips. This technique is employed to achieve a more even and aesthetically pleasing illumination effect.

• Space: Various spaces and applications, such as home decor, event lighting, art installations, or DIY and Craft projects
• Materials: Ping-pong balls, LED strips, mounting materials, and cutting tools
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Pros	Cons
Cost-effectiveness Customizability Simple installation Lightweight and easy handling	Durability Light intensity Design limitations Heat management

21. Apply Silicone

Silicone is also a common material for diffusing LED strips due to its various beneficial properties, which makes it a reliable choice for achieving high-quality, uniform illumination in lighting projects. Some applications of this material in LED strip diffusion are silicone diffuser sheets and silicone tubing.

• Space: Various applications, from architectural and retail lighting to DIY projects and outdoor lighting
• Materials: Silicone diffuser sheets or tubing, led strips, mounting materials
• Skill level: Beginner

Pros	Cons
Effective diffusion Durability Flexibility and customization Ease of installation	Brightness reduction High cost Cleaning and maintenance challenges Design constraints

22. Use Paper

Paper is by far the most budget-friendly material to diffuse LED strips. Whether you use plain bond paper, parchment paper, tissue paper, or frosted acetate, each type offers different levels of diffusion and durability. With a bit of creativity, you can easily wrap the paper around the LED strip and turn it into a customizable diffuser to create a soft and even illumination in a cost-effective manner.

• Space: A variety of spaces and settings, such as home interiors, office spaces, display areas, decorative lighting, or custom light fixtures
• Materials: Paper (Plain bond, parchment, tissue, or frosted acetate paper), LED strips, adhesive and mounting materials
• Skill level: Beginner

Pros	Cons
Low cost Simple installation Variety and availability Easy customization	Durability Brightness reduction Maintenance Heat sensitivity

23. Apply Thermoplastic

Thermoplastics are a versatile and effective material for diffusing LED strips, offering benefits such as uniform light diffusion, durability, and heat resistance. By cutting, shaping, and properly attaching thermoplastic sheets or tubes, you can achieve a high-quality diffusion effect. While they may be more costly and require precise handling, the performance and aesthetic benefits can make them a worthwhile choice for many lighting projects.

• Space: Wide range of spaces, particularly in those with considerations of heat management
• Materials: Flexible LED strips, adhesive or mounting supplies, and thermoplastic material like acrylic (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), or polyethylene terephthalate (PET)
• Skill level: Intermediate

Pros	Cons
Effective diffusion Durability Heat resistance Versatility	Cost Complex installation Scratching and cleaning challenges

24. Use Adhesives/Glues

Applying adhesives or glues to diffuse LED strips involves attaching diffusion materials, frosted acrylic, paper, or fabric to the LED strips with the help of various adhesives to or around the LED strips to create a more even light output. This method can be quite effective if done correctly. 

• Space: Wide range of spaces, from home interiors and office environments to retail settings and DIY projects
• Materials: Adhesives or glues, LED strips, diffusion materials like frosted acrylic sheets, paper, fabric or silicone sheets
• Skill level: Beginner to intermediate

Pros	Cons
Versatility Ease of application Customizable	Adhesive residue Durability

25. Implement Woodcraft

Implementing woodcraft to diffuse LED strips involves using wooden elements to create a decorative and functional diffusion system. Wood can be used in various ways to diffuse light, from custom enclosures and panels to artistic designs. When combined with epoxy resin, this approach is perfect for crafting LED table lamps with visually appealing and functional lighting solutions that enhance any space with both light and artistic flair.

• Space: Under-cabinet lighting, headboard lighting, shelf lighting, staircase lighting, integrated furniture lighting, wall sconces
• Materials: LED strips, wooden panels or sheets, diffusion material like frosted acrylic or glass
• Skill level: Intermediate

Pros	Cons
Aesthetic appeal Customization Durability	Complexity Heat management Maintenance and cleaning challenges

Overall, for those wondering how to diffuse LED strip lights effectively and looking to delve deeper into these diffusion projects, experimenting with different materials and methods will help to find the perfect solution. Each method with a different budget and skill level offers a unique way to soften the harshness of LED lights, transforming your space with beautifully softened, evenly distributed light that complements your décor and enhances your living environment.