Things You'll Need:
- Lamp base
- Drill
- 3/8-inch drill bit
- Lamp rod
- Nut
- Washer
- Hacksaw
- File
- Feet
- Strong glue
- Lamp kit
- Utility knife
- Wire stripper
- Lampshade
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Step 1
Choose a lamp base that matches the decor in your room. Some things you could use are vases, candlesticks, books, bottles or branches. If you stack several objects to make the lamp base, attach them together securely. Choose a lamp base that will not tip over when you use it, or attach it to a base of wood to make it stable.
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Step 2
Drill a 3/8-inch hole through the lamp base from top to bottom if it does not already have one. Use a drill bit that is appropriate for the material you are drilling through and long enough to go all the way through the lamp base. Make sure the hole is straight up and down. If you are stacking several objects, you can drill a hole through each object separately before attaching them together.
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Step 3
Cut the lamp rod with the hacksaw so it is 1/2-inch taller than the height of the lamp base. File the ends of the lamp rod to remove any burs and slide it into the hole in the lamp base. Secure the rod to the bottom with the nut and washer.
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Step 4
Glue feet onto the bottom of the lamp so it will sit flat when the cord is in place. Make sure the feet are evenly spaced and securely attached. If necessary, stain or paint the feet to match the lamp base.
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Step 5
Insert the end of the lamp cord without the plug into the bottom of the lamp rod. Pull the cord up through the lamp rod until about 3 inches of cord extends from the top of the lamp base.
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Step 6
Screw the lock nut onto the lamp rod, followed by the neck with the wide end down and the harp holder. Add the socket cap and gently tighten it to hold everything in place.
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Step 7
Cut down the center of the cord with the utility knife, separating it into two wires about 2 inches in length. Make a loop in each side, with the end of one loop in front of the cord and the end of the other behind the cord. Pass each end through the loop formed by the other side and tighten. This underwriter's knot will keep the cord from being pulled out of the lamp rod.
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Step 8
Use the wire stripper to remove about 1/2 inch of insulation from the end of the wires. Twist the strands of wire to hold them together. Wrap the neutral wire around the silver screw on the socket and the hot wire around the brass screw; wrap the wires in the same direction the screw turns when you tighten it. Tighten the screws.
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Step 9
Push the socket into the socket cap and pull the excess cord down through the lamp rod. Put the socket shell over the socket, tucking the wires in, and press it down into the socket cap until it clicks. Add the harp and lampshade.
