Craig, I have made several DIY light strips from just a bit of 1 x 6 wood or something like that, and some 1/4 luan plywood. figure out how wide it needs to be to hold the two lamps and reflectors, then make it a bit wider. cut the vertical end plates from the 1 inch thick( its really only 3/4") board so that is is trapesoidal( wider at the base, than the top.) about 5 or 6 inches high. I like to use wood stock wide enough so that the grain runs vertically.
then cut strips of the 1/4 inch luan for two sides and the top. tack them to the end boards with wire brads. If you want to make it strong, seal the seams with some cheap epoxy or two part resin from the dollar store. add some wood blocks in the appropriate places inside to mount the ballast( if internal) and the endcaps and clips and reflectors. drill lots of 1/2 inch holes in the top to vent heat. make the side panels just a little short so there is a 1/4 inch air gap at the bottom from the glass plate it might sit on to let air flow up and thru the fixture. add a 4 dollar push button switch and 8 foot grounded power cord from HD and you are done. you could paint the outside with rustoleum enamel, or shelac. install the lamps, wireing and reflector. thats it.
Ive made light strips like that for PC's, T_5's and VHO lights.
