That muslin fabric idea sounds intriguing—I hadn't considered using fabric for diffusing basement lighting before. Did you find any issues with dust buildup or sagging over time? I've been thinking about something similar for my basement project, but I'm a bit concerned about maintenance and durability.
When I did my basement ceiling, I experimented with frosted acrylic panels placed about 4 inches below the LED strips. It gave a nice diffused glow, kind of like moonlight filtering through clouds. The acrylic was easy to clean and held up well, but it didn't have quite the same soft texture your muslin probably has. Fabric might give a warmer, cozier feel overall.
Also, did you have to treat the muslin fabric with anything special—like fire retardant spray or something—to make it safer around the lights? I know LEDs don't get very hot, but I'm always cautious about fire hazards, especially in enclosed spaces.
One other thing that crossed my mind: how did you secure the fabric in place? Did you staple it directly to wooden framing or use some kind of tension system? I'm curious because tension systems seem easier to adjust later on if the fabric stretches or loosens over time.
Your attic project sounds really creative though...makes me want to revisit my basement plans and maybe experiment a bit more before settling on a final design.
I used muslin in my basement too and didn't notice much dust buildup, but it did sag slightly after about a year. A tension system would've been smarter...wish I'd thought of that earlier. Did you find acrylic panels expensive?
I tried acrylic panels once for a client's basement project, and honestly, they weren't cheap. But the effect was pretty stunning—especially when we added some LED strip lighting behind them. Gave the whole space this magical glow, perfect for a fantasy vibe. If budget's tight though, you might consider mixing materials...maybe acrylic in key areas and fabric or wood accents elsewhere? Could give you that dreamy look without breaking the bank.
I used acrylic panels on a similar basement reno a couple years back, and yeah, the cost definitely adds up fast. We ended up strategically placing them just above the seating area and bar, then filled in other spots with textured fabric panels and reclaimed wood beams. The contrast actually enhanced the fantasy feel—more organic, less sterile. Plus, clients appreciated the savings. I'd say mixing materials is definitely the way to go if budget's a concern.
"I'd say mixing materials is definitely the way to go if budget's a concern."
Fair point, but did you find fabric panels held up well over time in a basement environment? I've had issues with humidity causing fabric to sag or discolor after a while. Personally, I'd lean toward painted drywall or even faux stone panels for durability—maybe pricier upfront, but less hassle down the road. Curious if anyone else ran into similar issues with fabric...
