Directions for a Campsite Lamp Post

Solar yard lights are a child safe and cost effective alternative to kerosene or gas lamps.

Campsite lampposts are a simple and affordable way to personalize your outdoor living space. Solar yard lights are a child safe and cost effective alternative to kerosene or gas lanterns. With the addition of a crossbar, this afternoon project lends itself to hanging flower baskets or decorative flags for further customization. One quick trip to the local hardware store and you are ready to begin. Best of all, PVC lampposts are lightweight, durable and portable, important requirements for any camping gear.

Things You'll Need

• 1 Solar yard light
• 1 PVC Closet Flange, 4 inch
• 1 PVC Bushing, 4X2 inch
• 1 PVC Bushing, 2X1¼ inch
• 1 PVC pipe, 1¼ inch X 5 feet
• 1 PVC pipe, ½ inch X 2 feet
• 1 1¼ inch pipe cap
• 2 ½ inch pipe caps
• PVC Glue
• Drill
• ½ drill bit
• 4 tent stakes
• Paint (optional)

Instructions

1. Create the base of the lamp post by using the PVC glue to attach the 2X1¼ inch bushing inside of the 4X2 inch bushing, and then glue the bushings into the closet flange. Let the glue dry completely, according to manufacturer's directions.

2. Measure and drill a hole at a 90 degree angle, 16 inches from the top of the 1¼ inch X 5 feet section of PVC pipe. Drill the hole through both sides of the pipe.

3. Drill a hole through the top center of the 1¼ inch pipe cap. Drill slowly to avoid cracking.

4. Insert the threaded end of the solar light through the drilled hole in 1¼ inch pipe cap. Thread the stake of the solar light onto the light base. This assembly will keep your lamp snugly in place on the post.

5. Assemble the lamppost by inserting the 1¼ inch X 5 feet PVC pipe into the base. Insert the ½ inch X 2 feet PVC pipe through the drilled hole in the larger pipe and fit the ½ inch pipe caps to the ends. This creates the crossbar.

6. Insert the solar light stake assembly into the top of the lamppost.

7. Stake the lamppost into the ground by placing the tent stakes through the pre-drilled holes of the closet flange. This will make your lamp post more stable and wind resistant.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have never worked with PVC before you may want to dry fit the pieces before gluing the bushings permanently in place.

• A coat of primer and paint can make your lamppost really stand out, but be sure to use products made specifically for PVC plastics.

• Only use adhesives or paint products in well ventilated areas and read manufacturers information for further safety practices.

References

• Rustoleum: PVC Paint
• Gorilla PVC: PVC Glue

Resources

• PVC Plans: Campsite Lampposts