Ariannaquilts

I bought my light box at AC Moore's about 10 yrs ago for about $20, if you don't have access to that store do you have Michaels they have them and usually accept JoAnn's coupons. They are definitely less expensive than JoAnn's.

kathydacey

Go to Home Depot, purchase a piece of Plexiglass ($3.99) get a tap light, and put it in some type of pan. Turn on the light, cover with the plexiglass and there you go. Compliments of Sew Many Ways.

madamekelly

I once sat in the car, and used the window. We are nothing if not creative.

FroggyinTexas

If you can find an old computer scanner--the little flat ones that didn't do anything but scan--somewhere, take it apart and get its insides out. Then Velcro a flourescent light bulb into it and voila! you've got a great scanner for less than $10. It will proably take less than an hour to create it. I made one from a scanner that a friend gave me and I like it better than the commercially made one I also have. froggyintexas

dharinger

I don't have a light box and needed to do some tracing once. It was winter and kind of dark outside, so holding it up to the window wasn't working, but I really wanted to get started on my new project. So I just put a lamp outside my window, came inside, and did my tracing. It worked great!

Teach

Lots of good ideas here, and multiple ways to make a light box. When I need one, I know what I can do. This board is wonderful!

writerwomen

There are other options- can use a window- a blue tv screen. a glass dish over a flash light, a storm window over a lamp on chairs- I've tried all of them whether transfering a patten or a rough draft of an illustration- depending on you size need and how much you want to set up is how I decide what I am willing to get out. I have a very nice light box hand made by my father years ago but for the life of me I can't locate it. Other options are a glass coffee table or check the toy department they may have something at a much lesser price

Miss Ruthie

I'm right there with ya' NYCQUILTER. Especially now that fabric is $11.50/yard. Yikes!!!

mcar

I have a professional light box....my cutting board is used on it, blocking out the light. Rarely do I need the light box as I did when working in calligraphy and graphic arts. But then I am not paper piecing at this time.

mcdaniel023

I still haven't decided. So many good ideas. I forgot about Michaels and I have a nice gift card. Hummmm. I knew I would get some great answers. Just didn't know I would get so many. THANKS!