Swag lights are an easy and stylish way to brighten any space –no hardwiring necessary. These plug-in pendant lights hang from the ceiling and gracefully drape along a chain or cord, allowing you to position yours exactly where you need it. Whether adding ambience to your reading nook or dining area, installing a swag light takes just a few simple steps.

Tip!

For more information on What a Swag Light Is, browse our comprehensive guide.

How to Hang a Swag Light

(Shop this image: Swag lights, round dining tables, upholstered dining chairs, and plant & floral wall art)

Time: 30 minutes
Skill Level: Beginner
Number of People: 1

What You'll Need

• Pencil
• Tape measure
• Stud finder
• Power drill
• Ceiling hooks or toggle bolts
• Ladder or step stool
• Swag light kit or plug-in pendant light

1. Choose Your Hanging Location

Start by deciding where you want your swag light to hang. To plug yours in without an extension cord, choose a spot near an outlet. These lights look great suspended above a cozy reading chair, over a nightstand, or centered above a dining table.

If you plan to hang more than one, measure equal spacing between each swag light to create a balanced look. Take a step back to visualize your arrangement before drilling.

2. Mark Your Hook Placement

Once you’ve chosen a swag light location, use a pencil to mark two key spots:

• The first hook should go directly above where you want your light to hang.
• The second hook should sit between the light and the wall, guiding the cord toward the outlet for a neat, draped look.

Use a tape measure to make sure the spacing is even and that the light will hang at an appropriate height. Lights above any tables or surfaces should hang roughly 30 to 36 inches above them, low enough for a warm glow but high enough to avoid a glare.

3. Install the Ceiling Hooks

Use a stud finder to check if there’s a joist (strong wooden beam behind your ceiling) where you plan to install the hooks. If you’re drilling into solid wood, standard screw-in ceiling hooks are an ideal fit. If you’re drilling into drywall only, use toggle bolts or anchors to make sure the hooks can safely support your light’s weight.

With a power drill, create small pilot holes where you made your pencil marks – these shallow starter holes make it easier to screw in your hooks, prevent your ceiling material from cracking and help ensure a more secure hold. Then, twist your hooks in by hand until they feel snug and secure. Give each hook a light tug to ensure it’s firmly anchored before hanging your light.

4. Hang and Adjust Your Light

Using a ladder or step stool, loop the chain or cord of the swag light over the hooks. Adjust the drape of the cord until the light hangs evenly at your preferred height. When everything looks right, simply turn on your swag light and admire the warmth and style it instantly adds to your space.

You May Also Like