Can You Cut LED Strip Lights Anywhere? [A Quick Guide]

LED strip lights have become a popular choice for adding ambient lighting to homes, businesses – basically anywhere you need lighting.

Their flexibility, energy efficiency, and versatility make them an excellent lighting solution, and one you should definitely be considering.

But one of the most common questions we get however is: where can LED strips be cut? Can I cut an LED strip anywhere?

Let’s take a look.

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Can you cut LED strip lights anywhere?

You can cut LED strip lights, but not just anywhere.

LED strip lights will always include designated cutting points along the strip’s length, signifying where (and only where) you can make a cut.

These cutting points are strategically placed at regular intervals and are clearly marked with indicators like scissor icons, dotted lines, or other symbols.

They serve as a guide, showing you precisely where you can safely trim the strip.

Each LED strip light will have copper pads along its body, which are called connection points. If you were to cut open an LED strip, you would see wiring connecting each set of these copper pads.

It’s this wiring that means you can’t just cut an LED strip anywhere – you’d be severing the electrical connection, and thus stopping the electricity from powering the LED light modules.

How to cut LED strip lights (step-by-step)

Disconnect from Power

Before starting, ensure the LED strip lights are disconnected from any power source. This is essential to prevent electrical accidents.

Identify Cutting Points

Locate the cutting points. As we’ve shown above, these will be marked with scissor icons and/or dotted lines.

Measure and Mark

Determine the desired length for your LED strip. Use a measuring tape to get the right length, then find and mark the nearest cutting point on the strip.

Cut the Strip

Using sharp scissors or wire cutters, carefully cut the LED strip along the marked cutting point. Apply even pressure to achieve a clean, straight cut.

Test the Connection

Once your cut has been made, test the LED strip to ensure it functions correctly. Reconnect it to the power source and verify that all the LEDs light up as expected.

Closing remarks

In summary, LED strip lights can be cut, but it’s essential to do so at designated cutting points, disconnect the power before cutting, and reconnect the strips properly afterward.

Failing to do this will sever the electrical connection and stop your LED strip light working altogether.

VIEW OUR CAVELIGHTS RECOMMENDED LED LIGHT STRIPS HERE.

Related Posts

• How (and where) to cut LED light strips
• Ripped LED strip lights: Easy fix without soldering
• Are LED light strips safe?

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