This 5-Minute Decor Upgrade Turns Your Light Switches into Statement Pieces

When it comes to home decor, it’s often the little details that make the biggest impact. While it’s common to focus on statement furniture pieces, rugs, or art, there’s one small surface in your home that usually goes unnoticed: your light switch covers. But what if you could turn these everyday fixtures into charming accents that enhance your room’s style? Thanks to a clever TikTok trick, elevating the look of your light switches is easier and more affordable than you think.

Framed Light Switch Cover Hack

The inspiration for this easy DIY comes from a TikTok video with over 2 million views by Jolene (@desert_rose_marke). The hack is to use 3.5×5-inch photo frames to frame your light switches. These frames slip right around standard switch plates, instantly turning them from plain plastic rectangles into polished, eye-catching features.

The project’s versatility is what sets it a step above other DIY home upgrades. You don’t need to splurge on custom switch plates or have extreme crafting skills—just find a photo frame with the perfect size opening, remove the glass and backing, and mount it directly onto the wall surrounding your switch. The frame creates a defined border that adds texture, color, and personality to an otherwise overlooked detail.

Why Photo Frames?

Photo frames are the ideal shape and size to fit neatly around most light switches, especially the 3.5-by-5-inch size. Plus, they offer a ready-made decorative border that can be tailored to your style. If you want a sleek, modern look, choose a simple black or white frame with clean lines. Or, if you’re craving a bit of vintage charm, hunt for ornate or distressed frames at thrift stores. Wooden frames with natural grain are perfect if you want a rustic farmhouse feel to add warmth and coziness to your space.

Thrift to Elevate

One of the best parts about this idea is the opportunity to thrift. Vintage photo frames add character with their unique shapes, hand-carved details, or charming imperfections. A secondhand frame can become a little statement of nostalgia and craftsmanship, elevating your light switch into a genuine decor element rather than just a functional necessity.

Plus, shopping secondhand is budget-friendly and sustainable. Many thrift shops, flea markets, or estate sales have a treasure trove of frames waiting to be repurposed. Look for pieces with interesting textures or finishes that echo your existing decor.

How to Install Your Frame Light Switch Cover

1. Choose Your Frame: Measure your light switch plate to make sure the frame’s opening will fit around it. The standard 3.5-by-5-inch frame fits most single switches, but double switches might require a larger one.
2. Prepare the Frame: Remove the glass and the backing from the frame.
3. Paint or Finish (Optional): If you want to update or customize the frame’s color, now is a good time to spray paint or distress it for your desired look. Let it dry completely.
4. Attach to Wall: Use double-sided mounting tape or small removable adhesive strips to secure the frame around the light switch. Be careful not to obstruct the switch itself.

Where to Use This Hack

Light switch covers are found all over the home, but they usually fade into the background. Adding a frame draws the eye and shows attention to detail that elevates your entire space. From your living room and kitchen to bedrooms and hallways, this idea works well in any room with standard single light switches. It’s especially effective in spaces where you want to add a touch of personality without overwhelming the decor.

Consider using matching or coordinating frames throughout a hallway or room to create a cohesive look. Or, choose to mix and match frames of different styles for a playful gallery wall effect around your switches.