In my fruitless search for affordable table lamps, I came across a glass-topped candle holder at a local store. Closer inspection revealed that it wouldn't take much to turn it into the perfect table lamp – at a fraction of what it would cost to purchase!
This project got me thinking about how easy and affordable it is to transform affordable items into stylish décor accessories. Sometimes it pays to look around before forking out on overpriced décor accessories.
For example: A cheap picture frame can be given a faux-guilding technique, or moulding strips added to give it a unique look; ceramic ornaments can be made to look like brass and pewter, and so on. The options are endless. In today's age of quick-change decorating for a new look, it pays to shop around for affordable items that can easily be given a whole new look, and a completely different purpose.
Here's how:
1. For this project we used our ever-faithful Bosch PSR-12 Drill/Driver and a 10mm twist bit. You will also need electrical flex, a plug, on/off switch, a light fitting, Alcolin Mix 'n Fix Repairitquik, 120- grit sandpaper, and Rust-Oleum Stone Spray.
2. Position the base on a scrap piece of wood to protect your working surface and drill a 10mm hole through the centre of the base.
3. Roll up a piece of 120-grit sandpaper and sand out the hole at the top to allow insertion of the light fitting.
4. Remove the bottom section of the light fitting. Use Alcolin Mix 'n Fix to create a small 'sausage' to wrap around and push this into the top of the base. Leave to set for the required amount of time.
5. Place the lamp base on a piece of newspaper. Apply Rust-Oleum Stone Spray over the entire base. Be careful of over-spray. Leave to dry.
6. In the meantime, attach the wires to the top section of the light fitting, add the on/off switch and wire up the plug to the end of the flex.
7. Once the base is completely dry, insert the flex through the hole in the base, and screw on to the bottom section of the light fitting.
DIY Tip:
Remember to use an energy-saving light bulb in your new lamp.
Pop on the glass shade and your lamp is now ready for use!
Janice Anderssen is Women24's Décor & DIY expert. Click here to ask her a question.
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