Illuminating Creativity:
How to Make Unique Lamps from Ordinary Objects
Lamps are more than just light sources—they are expressions of style and creativity. While store-bought lamps can be beautiful, nothing compares to the charm and uniqueness of a lamp you have designed. By transforming everyday objects into functional art, you not only give new life to items that might otherwise be discarded, but also create a piece that reflects your personal taste and creativity.
This is a lamp that I had made after finding several solid wood antique cheese presses. The presses were used to keep the curds whole and to expel whey from between them—fun conversation and interesting history fact!
Here’s how you can turn ordinary objects into extraordinary lamps.
1. Choose the Right Object(s)
The first step in creating a unique lamp is selecting the object that will serve as the base. Almost anything can be transformed into a lamp—vintage teapots, architectural pieces, old books, or even musical instruments. The key is to find something that resonates with you and has a sturdy structure to support a light fixture.
Tips for Selection:
Consider the size and weight: The object should be stable so that it will not topple over easily.
Think about the material: Objects made of wood, metal, or ceramics are often ideal because they can be easily drilled or modified.
Reflect your style: Choose an object that complements your home decor or represents something meaningful to you.
2. Have the lamp assembled
While there are many people who enjoy a DIY approach to transforming your object(s) into a lamp, I prefer to let the pros do that—many lighting, electrical or hardware stores can easily do this.
3. Add the lampshade
I recommend taking the lamp to a lamp shop that also sells lampshades. By doing this, you can be assured that you get the correctly sized harp and shade. Again, if you are into DIY projects, you can use a standard shade or get creative by making your own from fabric, paper, etc. Etsy is a terrific resource for pretty print paper or fabric shades!
4. Find the perfect home for your new lamp
Your unique lamp is now ready to light up your home. Place it in a spot where it can be admired by all who see it. Not only will it serve as a functional light source, but it will also be a conversation starter and a testament to your creativity.
Creating a lamp from an ordinary object is a rewarding project that combines creativity, craftsmanship, and sustainability. Whether you’re recycling an old item or giving new life to a found treasure, the possibilities are endless. So, the next time something catches your eye, and you may not be sure how to incorporate it into your design vibe, imagine how it could be transformed into a stunning lamp. With a little imagination and effort, you can create a piece that is truly unique.