Thursday, April 14, 2011

Making Custom Quick Connect Plugs

Quick Connect plugs are the handiest tool for commercial decorators and anyone needing a quick and easy plug for 18 gauge wire! Steve (the guy who started this whole company) began modifying these to use in the middle of a line so you can easily get power to a light string or display without running a new wire! This blog is gonna show you how to do yourself! It's easy and takes about 30 seconds, so get out your tools and grab some plugs it's time to modify!








Getting Started

Get your tools and plug, we use pruning shears, a box cutter, and a multi tool (needle nose pliers would work fine)



Step 1




Using the shears cut 2 times on the inside of the plug. You cut on the side that doesnt have the opening for the wire.



Step 1 Example




Try to replicate the opposite sides spacing and length (these cuts are a little long but will work)



Step 2




Grab the area in between your cuts and lift up, you can then cut this out or just twist and break the plastic.







Step 2 Example

You can go ahead and us the plug like this if you want, we usually will take the knife and clean up the edges.





Step 3






CAREFULLY cut away the excess plastic to get a smooth edge. This step is optional if you have enough room for the wire.






Step 4

You can now place the plug were you need it on the wire.





Step 5

Slide on the back






Step 6

Enjoy your custom Quick Connect Plug!

I hope this guide helped you understand how to modify these plugs. You can make custom power strips and for the more patient you can make custom curtain or icicle lights that you wouldn't otherwise be able to buy! Below is a picture of some custom curtain lights we made for an event company, using modified plugs!




--
Zach
All American Christmas Co.