Want to make your own lightsaber? It’s easier than you think

By Erik Stein, Sunday Staff

Sunday, May 4, 2014 | 2 a.m.

Have you ever dreamed of being a Jedi? Do you imagine yourself wielding a lightsaber, the iconic weapon of the knights tasked with guarding the peace of the Galactic Republic? May 4 is Star Wars Day and here’s a fun project for the young Padawan or just the young-at-heart: Make your very own personalized lightsaber from items easily found at your local hardware store. It doesn’t take any tools or special skills in the Force — just a little time and creative spirit and you’ll be one step closer to protecting your neighborhood from the dark machinations of the Sith.

Shopping list

All items are easily found at your local hardware store. Most in the plumbing section.

A. Pop-up basin drain assembly. Qty. 1 ($7)

B. Brass slip joint extension tube. Qty. 1, size 1-1/2” ($7)

C. Disposal connector rubber flex coupling. Qty. 1, size 1-1/4” ($3)

D. Stainless steel sink hole cover. Qty. 1, size 1-1/2” ($3)

E. Slip nut and washer. Qty. 1, size 1-1/4” ($3)

F. Slip joint washers. Qty. 1, set of 3, size 1-1/4” ($3)

G. Industrial-strength Velcro. Qty. 1, set of two 4x2” ($3)

Optional

* Basket strainer. Qty. 1, size 1-1/32” ($2)

* Hardwood dowel. Qty. 1, size 1-1/32” ($4)

* Paint color of choice ($6)

* Popsicle stick

• 

  STEP 1. Remove the drain cap from A. and slide E. onto the bottom of the drain until it hits the ball valve.

• 

  STEP 2. Take the washer from B. and wrap around D., put on the end of B. and secure with the slip nut.

• 

  STEP 3. Slide C. onto B. until it rests against the slip nut.

• 

  STEP 4. Slide F. onto A. and work B. over them. It will fit tightly. I found it useful to use a popsicle stick to help push the washers into the gap and keep the handle aligned straight.

• 

  STEP 5. Cut the Velcro G. into thirds lengthwise. Use either side to suit personal taste.

• 

  FINISHED. Your lightsaber handle is now completed.

• OPTIONAL: Embellish to reflect personal taste. Some suggestions: secure a basket strainer into the drain assembly for the non-blade prop look. Alternatively, paint a wood dowel to make a full saber. Wrap the extra Velco around the end and insert into A., push snugly so “blade” stays in place. Use caution when swinging!