How to Make a Lamp From a Football
Making a lamp yourself can be a fun and exciting thing to do. If you can't find the right kind of lamp in the market, try making one. Use almost anything to make a lamp: vase, flower pot, pile of books or a football. Give a football lamp as a gift to a football fan. If you make it yourself, then its value is naturally greater. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Football
- Drill with a 3/8-inch bit
- Block of wood to be used as base
- Wooden button caps for lamp base
- Wood glue
- Lamp rod (cut into length required for the lamp)
- Lamp cord and socket
- Lampshade
- Screwdriver
- Utility knife or wire-cutter
Instructions
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Getting Started
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1
Drill one hole on opposite sides of the football. This hole should be wide enough for the lamp rod to go through. Take care not to make it too wide, as it might sit loosely on the rod and lose its shape. Next, drill a hole through the block of wood to be used as a base and take the rod through the ball and block of wood. Ensure that it is sturdy and firm. Glue the ball to the base so it remains firm. Put the button caps under the base of wood so it has a strong grip.
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2
Insert the wire cord into the rod and pull it through it. Leave about 4 to 5 inches of cord at the top and pull the long length of it from the bottom end. Attach the socket parts onto the lamp cord and screw the socket cap onto the rod securely. On the plug end of the cord, use wire strippers to strip off 1/2 inch of insulation from each wire, being careful not to cut the wire. Attach the socket to this end of the cord.
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3
Once the wiring is complete and secure, put the lampshade on top of the rod and fit it into place. All you need now is a bulb and your football lamp is ready.
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Tips & Warnings
The wire and rod should be of good quality. This will ensure a long and safe life for your lamp.
Take all the necessary precautions while working with electric gadgets.
The football that you want to use should be in a reasonable shape. Or, if it has sentimental value, then even a misshapen one will look good.
Use care while working with electrical appliances.
The drill should be used with care, especially while drilling a hole through the leather of the football.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images
