Inspired by an episode of Sarah's House from a few years ago, I decided it was time to create a source of light for our bedroom - actually, make that two sources of light. Store bought, lamps can be kind of expensive. They can be in the $100-$200 range, actually. Sure, you can find less expensive versions at box stores like Wal Mart, but what's the fun in that?! I was able to make my own lamps for $42.
How do you make your own lamps, you say? So glad you asked, friend.
It all started at Winners where I discovered this vase a couple of months ago. Remove the doo-dad from the top and you have found yourself a lamp base for $16.
I then found a lamp kit at The Home Depot. It took me a little while to find it online, but when I sent hubby the link, he had no trouble finding it in store. This is what it looks like. (Coincidentally it was also $16.)
Hubby's role came next. He drilled a hole at the back for the cord to go through. I then rinsed the vase with water to remove the dust that had accumulated from the drill bit. You must plug the top with something so the lamp kit doesn't rattle around in the base. Hubby got two wine corks (one for each lamp) and drilled a hole in each so the cord could pass through. Don't push the corks into the opening yet.
Push the cord through the hole in the back of the vase and up to the top. Measure how long the cord must be, and give yourself an extra two inches. Tie a knot so the cord won't pull through the base. Slip the cord through the cork and then push the cork into the opening at the top. Assemble the rest of the lamp kit now. This is incredibly easy to do and the kit comes with instructions.
I bought a lamp shade at Winners for $10, so as I mentioned previously, the lamp cost $42 in total. Not to mention, it's one of a kind!
