How to Convert an Antique Lamp

Convert an antique lamp into a functional piece to use in your home on a daily basis. Converting an antique oil lamp can give new life to a family heirloom or a great antique-shop find. This project is suitable for a beginner and requires only minimal supplies and knowledge. Use the same plan to convert wine bottles or other household items into lamps for your desk, night stand or living room.

Things You'll Need

• Oil lamp conversion kit
• Socket
• Cord and lamp plug
• Needle nose pliers

Instructions

1. Remove the globe or glass shade from your oil lamp. Unscrew the metal burner and clean thoroughly to remove all soot and oil residue.

2. Screw the oil lamp converter onto the oil reservoir of your antique lamp.

3. Pull the lamp cord through the hole in the antique lamp conversion kit. Thread the lamp socket onto the cord, pulling a substantial amount of slack through to allow easy handling of the cord.

4. Strip the cord to bare wire. Remove the socket housing and loosen the contact screws on the socket. Wrap the wire with smooth insulation around the brass screw in a clockwise direction. Wind the wire with ribbed insulation in a counterclockwise direction around the silver screw. Tighten both screws. Replace the housing. Pull snug against the antique lamp conversion kit.

5. Place a low wattage bulb in your oil lamp and replace the original shade or add a new shade to your revamped antique lamp.

References

• Electrify an Oil Lamp
• Lamp Repair
• Kerosene Lamp Conversion