How to Make Ultraviolet Lightbulbs

eHow may earn compensation through affiliate links in this story. Learn more about our affiliate and product review process here.

Ultraviolet lightbulbs may be purchased at a hardware store but you may also chose to make some yourself. Ultraviolet or UV lightbulbs create fluorescent effects and have more than one use. Ultraviolet light may be used for parties because you can have colored lights and create a unique environment. UV lights are most commonly used for security purposes. Many sensitive documents such as credit cards and passports have symbols printed onto them that are only visible with ultraviolet light so that they are difficult to copy.

Advertisement

Make an ultraviolet lightbulb.

Video of the Day

Things You'll Need

  • Ultraviolet Paint

  • Paint Brush

  • Lightbulbs

Step 1

Take your lightbulb and suspend it upside down. You can do this by tying a string to an elastic band then wrapping the band around the base of the lightbulb then tying it to a hanger. Make sure that the lightbulb is secure enough that you are able to hang it up overnight without fear that it will fall.

Video of the Day

Step 2

Clean the lightbulb with Windex or another glass surface cleaner. Let dry completely. It is important to have a clean and dry surface to work on so that the paint adheres properly and that there are no dust or dirt particles creating bumps in the paint.

Step 3

Paint an even layer of ultraviolet paint onto the lightbulb and let dry overnight. When completely dry, cover the lightbulb with a second coat of paint. Ultraviolet paint is traditionally black but you can purchase colored paint as well, which is useful if the lightbulbs are for a party or decoration.

Tip

Make sure that the paint is put on in even layers. The bulb must be dry before you use it.

Advertisement

references