If you're looking for a way to recycle old or unused objects into something new, learning how to make a lamp is a fun and relatively simple project. Recycle a glass bottle, vase, terracotta plant pot, or empty paint can into a unique table lamp. You can feel proud knowing that you've made the lamp yourself, and can enjoy having this one-of-a-kind fixture in your home. This article will give you the basic instructions and supply list needed to make a lamp from almost any object.
A homemade lamp is not only a nice addition to your home décor, but it makes a nice gift idea, too. Once you get the process down pat, you can even sell your creations for a little extra cash. The only real cost involved is the price of the lamp kit, which will cost under $ 11.00. The rest of the materials you probably already have at home. Get creative and look for objects to make a lamp with in the attic, basement, or garage. Yard sales and flea markets also are a good source for lamp-making materials. Mason jars, metal pots, wine and liquor bottles, vintage bubble gum machines, and other easy to find objects will lend themselves well for making homemade lamps.
Materials needed to make a lamp:
Object that will be made into a lamp
Drill and drill bits
Lamp kit
Screwdriver
Wire cutter
Threaded metal rod (roughly 1" longer than the lamp itself)
How to make a lamp:
Step 1 - Give the object that will be turned into a lamp a good cleaning. There should be no trace of dirt, grease, or built-in on grime on the exterior surface.
Step 2 - Drill a hole from the top to the bottom of the object. The diameter of the drill bit should be as large as that of the metal rod. Remember, fragile objects will require special drill bits to prevent chipping or cracking.
Step 3 - Find where you want the cord to exit the lamp base and drill a hole accordingly.
NOTE - You will need to purchase a lamp kit, which will have all the components necessary to make a lamp operate. We suggest the Westinghouse Make-A-Lamp Kit, available at Home Depot. It sells for around $ 11.00 and has everything you'll need.
Step 4 - Lay out all the pieces of your lamp kit.
Step 5 - Insert the metal rod through the base of the lamp. If the rod is more than 1" longer than the base, have it cut to fit. Most home improvement retailers will do this for you at no cost. The excess rod will need to stick out of the top of the lamp.
Step 6 - Begin stacking the components of the lamp to form the 'guts' of the lamp. Attach the socket, attach the harp holder and finial (if using) and secure the rod at the bottom of the base with a washer and nut. The lamp kit should give you detailed instructions on how to stack your lamp properly.
Step 7 - Your electrical cord should now be strung through and outside the lamp. Carefully pull apart a few inches of the cord so that you separate the two wires. Tie the two cords into an underwriters knot (see illustration here).
Step 8 - Strip off ¾" of the outer plastic covering with wire cutters and attach the bare wires beneath the socket. Attach the plug to the end of the wire.
You now have a fully functional homemade lamp! Be sure to top it with a unique lampshade for a special touch.
More from Jennifer Wagner:
Unique DIY Lighting Design Ideas
Source: Personal knowledge
