How to Make a Kerosene Lamp

Kerosene lamps are a necessity if your electricity goes out, but they also provide a cozy and romantic atmosphere. Use an old, beautiful doorknob to make a kerosene lamp. Creating a kerosene lamp from a doorknob is a cute and clever way to use an old item in a new way. Doorknob kerosene lamps are quick and easy to make and are wonderful gifts for family and friends. Check flea markets and estate sales for attractive doorknobs with antique charm. They are usually overlooked, especially if they are missing hardware.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Old doorknob Rivet, size determined by doorknob Cotton wick, size determined by rivet Kerosene oil Eyedropper Scissors Measuring tape Needle nose pliers Tools to remove hardware, if needed WD-40 Rag

1. Choose a doorknob that will not tip over. A roundness to the bottom is alright, but you do not want one that will not stand up on the rounded bottom. A ball shape would not be safe.

2. Remove the hardware from the hole at the base of the doorknob. The hardware is usually screwed in and should easily come out. If you have trouble, try spraying a small bit of WD-40 on the connection. Let it set for a few minutes and try again.

3. Clean the doorknob. Measure the inside opening of the doorknob. The rivet will need to sit inside the edge. There is usually a ledge that it will sit on. If there isn't a ledge, the rivet will have to sit on the top of the opening.

4. Measure the inside of the opening of the rivet. Purchase your cotton wick to fit through the rivet hole and still fit tight enough that it will not slip out. Cut the wick 3 1/2 to 4 inches long.

5. Fill the inside of the doorknob kerosene lamp with kerosene using the eyedropper. Fill to just below the top. You do not want it to run over when you put the wick in.

6. Hold the edge of the rivet with the needle nose pliers. Thread the end of the cotton wick through the rivet. You want the burn end of the wick to be approximately a 1/2 inch long.

7. Place the long end of the wick in the doorknob kerosene lamp and set the rivet in the opening. If it has no ledge, set the rivet on the doorknob kerosene opening.

8. Allow a few minutes for the wick to soak up the kerosene and light the wick. Remove the wick and rivet to refill with kerosene when needed.

Tips & Warnings

• As with all burning candles and kerosene lamps, use caution and do not leave them in the room unattended.