Custom Design a Lamp

From Kema's Used Books, Gray, GA

By Sonya Weiss - Interior Design

If you've been shopping for lamps recently, you might have noticed how boringly alike most of them are. You can find ones from small to large that come with standard lampshades and while they're all perfectly serviceable, there's not a single one that really demands attention.

You don't have to settle for the same lamps that everyone else is taking home. Instead, you can create a lamp that brings both light and meaning to your home.

Maybe you didn't realize that a lamp based can be made from almost any material and in any design. From a block of wood, to a vase, to a jar, lamps can be created in any style. Some lamps can even have a base constructed out of old books, which by the way would be perfect for a reading nook or home library.

You can also make a lamp base out of rocks, or one out of CDs that are no longer useable.

To complete the lamp, you'll need whatever object or objects you want for the base, plus you'll need a lamp kit-you can find these either online or in your local home improvement store-and you'll need a lampshade. Of course, if you decide to use any base material that needs to be painted, you'll need the paint color you desire.

Make a hole in the center of your base for the lamp kit. If you glue items together for a base, leave room for the cord. Place the cord through the hole working from bottom to the top. The kit will come with a step by step guide. Follow the kit directions to know where to place the nuts and screws and play close attention to the wiring instructions.

When done, top it off with a lampshade that you've purchased or better still, create a unique lampshade as well.

Happy Decorating!