How To Make A Lamp Out Of Wood - 9 Steps Turning Wood to An Unique Lamp

  • Home Decor 101
  • Posted by: carson-rutz
  • Oct 26, 2024

Wooden lamps are famous for their natural and rustic look, suitable for many living styles. Do you want to add a touch of personality to your lamp from wood, make it extra special and more affordable by creating one by yourself.

This comprehensive “how to make a lamp out of wood” guide will show you simple and easy steps to make a lamp from wood that you can try to make at home to get your unique handmade decor.

9 Steps Turning Wood to a Unique Lamp

Supplies Need

1- Materials 

  • Wood pieces/ wood board: Used as main materials for making lamp base, body and shade
  • Spray paint: Add wood color
  • Vanish: Protect the wood and give it a polished look
  • Wood glue/ Screw: Join the pieces
  • Lamp kit: Perform the lamp's lighting function, which includes a lamp socket, a lamp cord, a plug, and a bulb (LEDs are highly recommended) 
  • Sandpaper:  Smooth the wood edges and surface
Materials needed for making wooden lamp
Materials needed for making wooden lamp

2- Tools

  • Hand saw/ Table saw/ Jigsaw: Cut and shape wood for making lamp frame
  • Ruler: Measure the wood according to the lamp structure
  • Square ruler: Make a perfect right angle for sanding
  • Clamps: Hold piece together
  • Drill/ Cordless drill: Make holes for lamp cords and screws
  • Orbital sander: Smooth wood surface, stable wood base
  • Screwdriver: Screw connections 
  • Wire stripper/cutter: Cut lamp cord while installing electrical components
Tools needed for making wooden lamp
Tools needed for making wooden lamp

Step 1: Preparing Wood

1- Choosing wood type

There is a wide range of wood types that come in various expressions, shades, shapes, and prices. Choose an appropriate one that meets your needs:

  • Beech, birch, and ash: Light in color and create a bright, airy look
  • Walnut: Feature darker hues, bring a vibe of calm
  • Cherry: Light in reddish color, contributes to an elegant appearance of the lamp and spaces
  • Oak: Light in medium brown tones, exudes timeless warmth and elegance aesthetic
  • Driftwood or reclaimed wood: Feature classic gray and silver hues, blending with little splashes of brown, bringing a breath of the wood life journey.
Different wood types vary their color shades
Different wood types vary their color shades

2- Cleaning

If you use untreated driftwood or reclaimed wood, you must clean them before doing further action. If you buy wood boards that are completely treated, you can pass this step.

First, to remove loose dirt and debris, leave the wood under running water and use a stiff brush to scrub. If the dirt sticks tightly on the wood, use wire brushing to ensure thorough cleaning. Then, rinse wood in freshwater. 

Next, prepare a diluted bleach solution in the proportion of one part bleach to ten parts water. After that, soak the wood pieces in for 24 hours to kill algae or bacteria. Then, use a stiff brush to scrub wood under running water. Finally, dry the wood under the sun until it feels dry to the touch (It may take a couple of days).

Make sure that the wood is thoroughly cleaned
Make sure that the wood is thoroughly cleaned

3- Treating

This is a necessary step to protect the wood from cracking, decay, and insects. Use a brush to apply a coat of wax paste or wood preservative to get a really nice finish for the wood surface. If you are afraid about changing the natural color of wood, use a clear wood sealant.

Apply a coat of wax paste or wood preservative
Apply a coat of wax paste or wood preservative

4- Selecting the right pieces

Carefully check the wood to avoid any cracks or weak spots, and achieve color harmony as well as stability. If you use many wood sticks or wood pieces to form the lamp, the size and shape of each piece could play an important role in the overall design, consider carefully to achieve the visual appeal desired.

Check the wood piece carefully to avoid any cracks or weak spots
Check the wood piece carefully to avoid any cracks or weak spots

Step 2: Designing the Lamp Structure

Do you have in mind what type of lamp you want to create when you’re searching for “how to make a lamp out of wood”. Well, this is important hence the lamp structure of each type is different, leading to differences in materials needed. For example:

  • Wooden Adjustable Lamp: Instead of a fixed stem, adjustable lamps require more wood parts such as the base arm, middle arm, and top arm.
  • Wooden Floor Lamp: This lamp type features four identical tall wooden floor lamp legs, some lamps have straight or gracefully curvy leg shapes.
  • Wooden Desk Lamp: Desk lamps may have a lot in common with adjustable lamps but it has a fixed stem.
  • Wooden Tripod Floor Lamp: As the name refers, tripod lamps are famous for their tapered, and adjustable-height legs that terminate in a small platform, which is such a simplified design.
  • Wooden Log Lamp: Log lamps use a unique chunk of wood as a lamp body and stem. More information for making a log lamp: How to Make a Log Lamp with 5+ Beginner-Friendly Ideas to Get Started?
Each lamp type has a difference in lamp structure
Each lamp type has a difference in lamp structure

Determine what lamp type you want to make and design its structure, consider the size of the lampshade about the lamp base to maintain balance.

These next steps show instructions on how to make lamps from wood and can be applied to many lamp types but you may need a little adjustment based on the lamp's structure such as the size, shape, and details.

Step 3: Marking and Cutting the Wood

Mark all the dimensions needed according to the lamp design for the lamp base, lamp body (stem), lampshade, and space for the lamp cord. You can also make all the ends round with a big washer to mark holes for the bolt or make the edges safe.

Then use a jigsaw, a table saw or a hand saw to cut wood into pieces as you desire. Use a drill to make holes for screw connection (if you join pieces by screw) and space for lamp cords. To avoid the wood slipping during the cutting or drilling process, make more effort to clamp down wood pieces. 

You should put on safety glasses to prevent sawdust and debris from flying into your eyes. Additionally, to avoid splinters and sharp edges from hurting your hand, better to wear work gloves.

After all, sand the edges of wood pieces, the clipped corners. 

Mark and cut wood based on lamp structure
Mark and cut wood based on lamp structure

Step 4: Building the Lamp Stem and the Lampshade Frame

Arrange pieces of wood that you’ve cut in their place according to the desired shapes of the lamp stem and shade. To get a precise right angle, it’s necessary to use a square ruler along with the clamps. Then securely join lamp parts together by  drilling and screwing or using adhesives or using both these two methods:

  • Screwing: Use appropriate length screws to joint connections between pieces at the holes as you’ve already drilled.
  • Using Adhesives: Join pieces of lamp parts together with wood glue. To prevent pieces of wood from moving before the glue dries, better hold them together with clamps. For more reinforcement, epoxy resin is a perfect choice to fill the gaps and form a strong bond. Don’t glue all at once. Be patient with joining piece by piece, it is not worth wasting time fixing it.

Check that there is a hole for the cord or not, if not, remember to drill one hole for the cord before attaching the last piece of wood. After that, use sandpaper to quickly smooth all the unevenness.

Join the pieces of wood by screwing or using adhesives
Join the pieces of wood by screwing or using adhesives

Step 5: Painting or Varnishing the Base and the Frame (If Needed)

Varnishing can protect and maintain the natural beauty of the wood, and create a polished look to the wood surface while painting can alter the color appearance, grain, and texture of wood. You can paint or varnish:

  • Varnish: Use a brush or rag to apply a coat of clear varnish to the wood surface. Consider using a matte finish to preserve the natural aesthetic. Use a dry cloth to clean up the excess and let it dry.
  • Paint: Apply a light wash of white or pastel paint to enhance the rustic feel of the wood or create your preferred color. Then, use a brush, a roller, or a spray gun to apply one or two coats of paint as you desire and leave it to dry out.

Moreover, you can also combine painting and vanishing. Apply paint then leave it to dry. After that cover the stained wood surface with a layer of transparent varnish as a protective topcoat.

Note: Working in a well-lit and ventilation area to see what you’re doing clearly and ensure good airflow, especially when using varnishes.

Vanish, paint, or combine both these two methods
Vanish, paint, or combine both these two methods

Step 6: Choosing or Making the Lampshade Cover (If needed)

If you just want to pick and buy a lampshade instead of making, choose a lampshade that matches the color and texture of wood. Moreover, remember to take the shade size into account to achieve visual harmony.

Otherwise, if you want a handmade lampshade too and have already prepared a lampshade frame in previous steps, here are 3 ways to make the lampshade cover:

Lamp cover from yarn skeins: Choose yarn in colors you like, Tie a double-knot on the top of the frame and wrap the yarn up and down around the frame. Wrap in one direction from left to right or vice versa and make sure not to overlap each string. Tie and cut the excess string. You can mix as much color yarn as you want.

Cover the lampshade with yarn skeins
Cover the lampshade with yarn skeins

Lamp cover from linen fabric: Cut the linen fabric and paper roll according to the lampshade frame dimension. Then, use glue to attach linen fabric and paper and make sure they line up together. Next, align the fabric with the edges of the frame and glue them carefully. Fold the edges to get a nice and smooth look.

Cover the lampshade with linen fabric
Cover the lampshade with linen fabric

Lamp cover from paper/perforated paper: Do the same as making a lamp cover from fabric. However, paper or perforated paper can easily tear, burn, or yellow over time.

Cover the lampshade with paper/perforated paper (source: alibaba)
Cover the lampshade with paper/perforated paper (source: alibaba)

You can also add more decoration to your lampshade to make it extra unique and express personal preference. Learn more here: How to Decorate A Lampshade? 20+ Ideas for DIY Projects

Step 7: Installing the Electrical Components

1- Assembling the lamp kit:

Unpack and prepare your lamp kit including a socket, a cord, a plug, and other necessary fittings to be ready before wiring. Reading and following the kit instructions carefully for basic assembly.

Familiarize yourself with lamp kit instruction (source: amazon)
Familiarize yourself with lamp kit instruction (source: amazon)

2- Threading the wire through the lamp stem (optional depending on the lamp structure):

Commonly the cord will enter at the base up to the top where the socket will be. Use tape to pull the cord through tough areas (if necessary).

Thread the lamp cord (source: etsy)
Thread the lamp cord (source: etsy)

3- Wiring the socket:

Strip, twist then insert and screw the wire ends to the socket terminals. Next, use the mounting bracket or adhesive (such as epoxy) to secure and bond the socket to the lamp at its place based on the lamp design.

Wire the socket (source: runningwithsisters)
Wire the socket (source: runningwithsisters)

4- Wiring the Plug:

Strip and twist the wire ends then open the plug casing and insert them into the corresponding screw terminals. Screw gently to tighten connections.  Close and seal the plug casing tightly.

Wire the plug (source: reddit)
Wire the plug (source: reddit)

Step 8: Assembling the Lamp

Here we are, just a few more actions, and your wooden lamp is totally completed. Gently screw the bulb to the socket until it is secure. Avoid over-tightening, which can damage the socket. Next, place the lampshade onto the base and strengthen the bond between the shade and the base with wood glue. Hold with fingers or use a heavy object and place on the shade to pressure until the glue starts to harden.

Screw the bulb and place the shade on
Screw the bulb and place the shade on

Step 9: Checking Your Lamp

To ensure your handmade wooden lamp serves its functionality stably, you should:

1- Check for stability:

Once your lamp made from wood is successfully completed, gently push it to several angles. The base must be hard and heavy enough to ensure the lamp does not tip over, especially if you place it in a crowded area.

Push and adjust the lamp to several postures to check the stability
Push and adjust the lamp to several postures to check the stability

2- Check for safety and functionality:

To avoid any electrical hazards before connecting to the power source, inspect electrical connections, electrical cords, and plugs to see if there are any fraying or cracks or not. Plug into the power socket, turn it on, and test the lamp. Ensure this wood lamp properly and safely operates before using it regularly. Now, it’s time to admire and enjoy your hard-working masterpiece.

Plug into the power socket, turn it on, and test the lamp (source: bdtips)
Plug into the power socket, turn it on, and test the lamp (source: bdtips)

Challenge yourself with:

Tips for Making a Lamp out of Wood

Some recommend tips to solve potential problems and to maintain the lamp's visual appearance:

1- Troubleshooting Issues:

  • Unstable base: This may occur when you do not grind or test the base carefully. Use sandpaper or grinder to smooth the base surface until you find it stable.
  • Flickering bulb: A loose bulb or faulty wiring can lead to flickering. Check for any wire or bulb loose connections. Ensure the bulb is properly fitted in its place. Moreover, verify that the bulb type is compatible with the power wattage as well as the dimmer.
  • Wood splitting: Wood often splits due to failing drilling or improper screwing techniques. Pre-drill holes before inserting screws and avoid over-tightening.
  • Uneven stain: Applying stain unevenly or on unprepared surfaces can result in blotches. Sand the wood evenly before staining and apply stain with a consistent technique.
  • Loose lamp parts: Improper assembly or wear over time can lead to loosened lamp parts. Check all connections and tighten any loose screws. Use adhesive or sealant for a more secure fit if necessary.
Some problems may occur when making a lamp out of wood by yourself
Some problems may occur when making a lamp out of wood by yourself

2- Maintenance Tips

  • Protecting the wood: Do not position the lamp near damp or highly humid areas to avoid warping and mold moisture.
  • Reapply finish: Periodically recover the wood surface with a finish coat to protect the wood from scratches and maintain its luster.
  • Regular dusting: Use a duster broom or a dry cloth to remove dust, and maintain a clean appearance.
Tips to maintain the beauty of the wooden lamp
Tips to maintain the beauty of the wooden lamp

16 DIY Wooden Lamp Ideas

If you are planning to kick off the DIY wooden lamp project, one of these ideas may inspire you. Choose a design that suits your style, ability, and budget.

Wall Bracket Lamp

Wall bracket lamp

Tripod Rustic Bedside Table Lamp

Tripod rustic bedside table lamp

Aesthetic Pallet Lamp

Aesthetic pallet lamp

Driftwood Table Lamp

Driftwood table lamp

Geometric Hanging Wood Lamp

Geometric hanging wood lamp

Intertwined Fallen TreeLamp

Intertwined fallen treelamp

Branch Table Lamp

Branch table lamp

Geometric Table Lamp

Geometric table lamp

Modern Shelf and Lamp Kit in One

Modern shelf and lamp kit in one

Sunshade Slats Adjustable Table Lamp

Sunshade slats adjustable table lamp

Simple Solid Wood Lamp Base

Simple solid wood lamp base

Triangle Table Lamp

Triangle table lamp

Barn Wood Table Lamp

Barn wood table lamp

Easy Stir Stick Wood Lamp

Easy stir stick wood lamp

Wood Epoxy Lamp

Wood epoxy lamp

Cracked Table Lamp

Cracked table lamp

How to make a lamp out of wood - creative ideas and video tutorial

The Bottom Line

Wooden lamps are eco-friendly, especially when you use driftwood or reclaimed wood. Making a handmade wooden lamp is feasible, simple, and affordable. Once you finish this “How to make a lamp out of wood” strategy, hope your work of art can overwhelm your friends or even yourself.

FAQs

Is wood a good material for lamps?

Although wood is easily damaged by water and highly humid environments, it can last 10 - 15 years if properly treated. Wood is also eco-friendly, and customizable.

What types of wood are best for making a lamp?

Oak and cherry are the two most common types of wood. Oak is strong and durable due to its natural resistance to warping and cracking, making it an ideal choice for a lamp, while cherry has a beautiful reddish color that can add a touch of elegance to any room but is not as resistant to warping and cracking as oak.

Can I use any type of bulb for my wooden lamp?

Yes, but for wooden lamps, LEDs are highly recommended due to their low heat emission, minimizing risk of fire.

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