Post #150370 by Bargoyle on Thu, Mar 31, 2005 7:24 AM

You can always opt to make one rather than buy it too. Its a pretty easy project, and then the puffer will have that much more value to you.

All you need to do it get the fish (ebay, internet, local shell store) pick a size you like. The round body part should be big enough to hold a 7 watt night light. You could always go bigger or smaller if you wanted, but then you'll have to adjust the light accordingly.

The fish will be stuffed with a whole ton of compressed "cotton". You'll be amazed at how much of this stuff comes out, and yes, thats whats next, you need to get the cotton out.

Start by making a cutting a small (size of a quarter) hole in the top of the fish. This is where your light will eventually go in, so keep that in mind when choosing location (kind of in the middle if you can).

Now, get all that stuff out of him!! I used needle nosed pliers for most of this, but you'll need something longer when you get to the bottom (medical forceps work well).

Once he's cleaned out, he's ready for illumination. I got my light from one of those Dept 56 Christmas Houses (my mom had an extra one, but I bet you can one anyplace they sell dept 56 stuff). It has cord, bulb, on/off toggle, and metal "wings" that hold them in the houses. These wings are key.

You need to make the top hole big enough to fit the bulb, but not much bigger. Then the wings will lock onto the fish when you put the bulb in. It holds so well, I can hang it by the eletrical cord!

Thats it. It looks great, its cheap to make, and was a fun little project. Heres a pic of it at the bar (left side). I can take some close ups if you want.

In fact, I think Im going to make more at some point with different colored lights inside, and some differnt sizes. Good luck!!

http://bargoyle.yafro.com/