How to Make Swag Lamps
Swag lamps are making a comeback. Swag lamps were popular during the 50s, 60s and 70s, and were large fabric or canvas lampshades hanging from the ceiling on a chain. Many will remember these lamps from their mother or grandmother's house because they were so popular. Now, it's possible to make a new, contemporary swag lamp that is very functional, yet pretty at the same time. Think outside the box for your own design of this style swag lamp.
Things You'll Need
- Terra cotta flower pot, glass bowl, or metal colander
- Hanging lamp kit with cord
- 15 to20 feet decorative chain
- Drill with 1/2-inch drill bit
- 2 ceiling hooks
- Step ladder
Instructions
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1
Drill a 1/2-inch hole in the bottom of the metal colander.
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2
Turn the bowl so that it is upside down. Attach the lighting kit to the hole you just made in the colander according to package directions. Make sure the bulb fixture is on the inside of the bowl.
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3
Thread or weave the electrical cord back and forth through the chain links. Don't worry if your chain ends up being too long. You can skip a couple of chain lengths to shorten the chain.
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4
Attach a ceiling hook in the desired position in the ceiling and another one closer to the wall or corner. Drill a 1/2-inch hole in the ceiling positions. Connect the hook according to the diagram and insert into the hole in the ceiling and tighten.
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5
Determine how low you want the ceiling light to go and place a chain link onto the first ceiling hook to hold in place. Then, droop the chain over to the hook near the wall or corner. Plug into the nearest outlet.
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Tips & Warnings
Paint the colander and add designs. Make a macrame swag lamp cover.
Use caution on step ladder and when using electrical equipment.
Resources
- Photo Credit Personal collection, wikimedia
