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Making a lamp out of books is a fun and creative way to repurpose old books while adding a unique decor piece to your home. In this DIY project, you’ll learn how to make a lamp out of books in less than an hour, creating a stylish and functional item that not only brightens your space but also gives new life to books that are no longer being used. Whether you’re aiming for a vintage, modern, or eclectic design, this guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.
And now, how to make a lamp out of old books? Follow 8 easy steps below to craft a unique book lamp DIY that perfectly complements your space:
If you want to make a lamp taller, you only need to stack more books. However, make sure the height is appropriate to maintain aesthetics and ensure convenience for installation and wiring.
Most importantly, you should select books that match the color scheme of your room or the overall design of the lamp. If the colors don’t align with your vision, you can paint the book covers to fit your desired palette. For example, start by applying a layer of Mod Podge to seal the pages and protect them from resin.
Once dry, apply a second coat of Mod Podge and let it fully dry. Then, mix the resin according to instructions and apply it to the Mod Podged sides of the books to permanently seal the pages.
After customizing the books, stack them together from largest to smallest to determine the desired height of your lamp. Adjust the number of books based on whether you’re making a table lamp or a taller floor lamp.
Using a pencil/marker and ruler, carefully mark the center of the top book where you want to place the lamp socket.
After that, drill a hole through the top three books for the light bulb and additional holes for screws to secure the stack. To drill the holes, clamp the books together using a C-clamp. This will help to prevent the books from moving while you are drilling.
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Attach the books together with the screws. The first set of screws should go under the cover of the top book. The second set of screws should start halfway through the second book. The third set of screws should start halfway through the third book.
Take apart the lamp kit and separate the wires from the gold hardware. Mark one wire with tape and untie the top wire from the gold tube. Then, cut a space in the black book for the wire to pass through and insert the wires through the hole.
Feed the wires through the center hole of each book and add screws to secure the books together.
Screw the gold tube or other lamp kit base through the top of the books. If you do not have a gold tube or you have a shorter gold tube, you may need to use some e6000 at this step and just glue the base of whatever your lamp kit looks like into the top of your books.
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For added stability, use a hot glue gun to attach the books together. This will help ensure the lamp remains sturdy and prevents any shifting or wobbling over time. However, if you prefer flexibility in rearranging or replacing the books in the future, you can choose to stack them without using glue. This method allows for easy adjustments while still creating a functional and stylish lamp.
Attach the lampshade to the light fixture by placing it on top of the harp. Secure the lampshade in place using the finial, which screws onto the top of the harp.
Although optional, this step provides the lamp with a finished, professional appearance and helps diffuse light evenly, creating a softer, more controlled illumination in the room. Choose a lampshade that complements the overall design of the lamp for a cohesive look. If you want lamp dimmable, in this step, you can install a dimmer switch, use dimmable socket base or use dimmer extension cord.
Once your book lamp is fully assembled, plug it in and test the switch to ensure the lamp functions properly. If the light doesn’t turn on, double-check the wiring and connections to ensure everything is secure and correctly installed. Make sure all wires are connected properly, and there are no exposed or loose parts.
Check this video for a visual guide on how to make a lamp out of books:
When creating a book lamp, safety is a top priority. Here are some essential tips to keep your project safe:
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Book lamp DIY can be styled to match various aesthetics, making them versatile decor pieces that complement a range of interior designs. Here are some creative ideas based on popular styles:
With this guide on how to make a lamp out of books, you can easily craft a unique lighting fixture that showcases your personal style, whether vintage, modern, or eclectic. From selecting the right materials to ensuring safety throughout the project, this DIY task is perfect for home decorators, book lovers, and anyone looking to repurpose items in a functional and stylish way. So gather your books, lamp kit, and tools, and get started on this one-of-a-kind DIY project!
Paperback books are generally too flimsy to support the lamp, so hardcover books are recommended.
Use properly insulated wires and follow instructions from the lamp kit to avoid electrical hazards.
Double-check your wiring connections and test the bulb in another lamp to rule out faulty components. Check on here for more details.
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