How to Build a Hanging Lamp

Create an interesting lampshade for a hanging light from a tutu or a paper lantern.

Hanging lamps can be created simply at home from materials found at the local hardware store. Creating a lamp shade for this project is where someone can really begin to show her creativity. The Shameless Magazine website suggests using a paper lantern shade, like those used for Japanese and Chinese lanterns. Choosing a paper lantern shade is a good idea because they come in wide array of colors and patterns. For a shade that reflects romance and whimsy, the Martha Stewart website suggests creating a lampshade from a tutu.

Things You'll Need

• Box cutter
• Long, thin extension cord
• Pull-chain light socket
• Light bulb
• Wire strippers
• Screwdriver
• Super glue
• Lampshade ring
• Tutu or paper lantern
• Insulated staples
• Hammer

Instructions

1. Cut the outlet end off of the extension cord using a box cutter. Split about one inch of the cord down the middle. The cord should separate easily. Use wire strippers to strip the coating off the cord to expose the copper wire beneath. Twist all of the small wires on each side together. Keep the two sides separated.

2. Take the pull-light socket apart. It should separate into four pieces: the top cap, outer casing, cardboard shell and the socket. Thread the extension cord through the top cap, pushing the cap down the cord so that it remains out of the way.

3. Loosen the two screws on either side of the light socket. Take one side of the socket and wind one side of the wire tightly around the screw. Tighten the screw and cut off any extra wires. Repeat with the second side.

4. Reassemble the socket, clicking the cord back into place. Screw in a light bulb and plug in the lamp to ensure it lights properly. Unplug before constructing the lampshade.

5. Thread the cord through the center of the lampshade ring. Secure with a bit of super glue to prevent the cord from sliding out of the lampshade ring.

6. Glue the tutu or the paper lantern to the outside edge of the lampshade ring.

7. Secure the cord to the ceiling with insulated staples. Use a hammer to push the staples into the ceiling.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to keep the two exposed wires apart from each other. Do not cross them when attaching them to the light socket. This will cause the light to short.

References

• Shameless Magazine: DIY Hanging Lamp
• Martha Stewart: Tutu Lampshade How-To