Decoupage Lamp

How to Make an Elegant Lamp

Dear Artful Crafters,

I'm looking for a lamp kit (high quality, not mason jar kit) where I would decoupage a glass chimney cylinder (from the inside) and then attach it to a base, cap, etc. or do I need to buy individual parts?

Carson and Co. makes the most beautiful decoupage lamps on earth, but they are far beyond my budget!

Julie

Yes, the Carson and Company lamps are gorgeous. Since all their accessories are custom made, I have no idea what they cost.

I think you can come very close to the look and quality if you DIY, especially if you have some decoupage experience.

Find your glass cylinder or vase first so you know the type and height of lamp kit you'll need. A basket lamp kit would work well with some glass vases while a planter or bottle kit would work for others.

You'll need to make or find a base and stopper to fit the vase. Once you have all that figured out, you can select the appropriate lamp kit.

The best source for lamp supplies that I've found is National Artcraft.

For a more professional look and so the electrical cord doesn't run down the outside of the lamp, you'll need to drill (or have an expert drill) a hole in the glass vase.

Here are directions on How to Drill Glass.

If your base is a footed one of wood or other soft material, you can drill through the bottom center of the glass vase and the base.

If the base is not footed, you'll need to drill the hole toward the bottom of the glass and hide the cord at the back of the finished lamp.

Lampshades can be quite pricey too. You might consider DIY-ing that as well.

Buy an inexpensive shade and cover it with elegant fabric or paper. Treat fabric with water repellant; seal paper with a few coats of clear acrylic spray.

I should mention that National Artcraft has a $30 order minimum. If you can't meet the minimum with lamp kit(s), be sure to check out some of their other departments. I personally love the snow globe kits.

Or send yourself a gift certificate to use on your next order!

A decoupaged table lamp is a lovely idea. I wish I could see how yours turns out!

Here is a list of all decoupage related articles on The Artful Crafter.