Custom Wiring
Customize Your Christmas
How Are Christmas Lights Wired?
Many people want the freedom to customize their holiday lighting decorations. Creating the custom look you want is easier than ever by assembling our wire, sockets, adapters, and accessories.
Start off with plain wire (lamp cord), cut and trim to your specifications. Next, attach clip-on sockets and plugs that require no splicing. Finish off the custom wire with a variety of extension cords, timers, and high-quality light bulbs to have the best looking Christmas lights.
Not So Plain Wire
SPT-1 vs. SPT-2 Wiring
Plain wire is the commonly used wire for custom lighting. Your house is unique, and so is the vision of your light display. Starting with plain wire allows you to cut-to-fit and attach sockets at your preferred spacing.
Plain lamp wire is offered in two options—both use 18-gauge copper. SPT-1 is typically used on Christmas lights and has an insulation thickness of 0.03 mm rated for 7 amps. SPT-2 is usually reserved for year-round lighting, such as patio lights, and has an insulation thickness of 0.045 mm with a 10 amp rating.
Know Your Socket Sizes
Choose The Right Sockets For The Job
Christmas light sockets come in two standard sizes: the smaller E12 (aka candelabra base) and the larger E17 (aka intermediate base). The "E" portion of the code refers to the term "Edison bulb", while the numbers (12 and 17) refer to the measurement (12mm and 17mm).
Our sockets are designed to clip on easily, featuring "vampire tooth" metal prongs that pierce the plain wire and make the required connection. Be sure to buy the correct sockets to fit the base of your Christmas light bulbs.
Plug Adapters and End Caps
Custom Wire Needs Two Things: Power & Closing Off Exposed Ends
You can end your custom wire in two ways. The first is by using a male or female adapter—simply clip on the "vampire plug" adapter that uses metal prongs to make the required wire connection.
The second way is to cap off the end of the wire safely and securely. When you do not plan to continue power into a new line, our termination cap (end cap) is ideal. Split the two sides of the wire apart, insert them into the end cap, and slide on the seal to prevent water or dust from grounding your wire.
Essential Lighting Accessories
There's More To Your Lighting Than A Custom Wire
