How to Make a Lamp Taller? 14 Easy Ways

Proper lighting is key to setting the perfect vibe and making activities like reading, working, and socializing way more comfortable. But what if your lamp’s a little… short? We've got the easy fix, just learn how to make a lamp taller.

These lamp height hacks will brighten a wider area and ensure every corner is well-lit, and aesthetically pleasing without buying a new one. Moreover, it helps avoid awkward shadows and keeps glare from straining your eyes.

So, why not give your favorite lamp a little boost? Stick around for these 14 lamp extension methods. Get ready for some DIY lamp height fun.

1. Apply Risers

A lamp riser is a decorative small platform or disc that raises the base of a lamp to add height. They come in lamp riser ideas with various materials like wood, ceramic, metal, or glass and are easy to find. Some risers are even attached to lamps with chains or cords for easy movement.

Simply place the riser underneath the lamp base, and voilà, your lamp is taller!

Buying a riser is a super quick solution for small lamp height adjustment without changing the lamp’s aesthetic. And the best part? These do the trick for cheap money.

Read more: How to Make A Light Dimmable? 5 Easy Ways to Do At Home

2. Use a Lamp Post Extender

Want some lamp height boosters at cheap prices? A lamp post extender is a tube-like attachment that screws right into the base and socket to give your lamp a boost without altering its style. These can be found in different finishes to match your lamp’s design.

Installation is simple: just unscrew the socket, insert the lengthener, and screw it back on. This way is ideal if you prioritize a more long-term lamp height modification. However, make sure to pick one that matches the diameter of your existing post and is made from durable materials like sturdy steel or aluminum.

Lamp post extenders work best with straight, sturdy lamps like floor, table, or outdoor post lamps (garden or pathway lights). But if your lamp's got curves or a delicate base, it’s better to try another method to avoid stability issues.

3. Add Wooden Blocks

Adding wooden blocks under your lamp base is a fun DIY project! They are like a “unique lamp riser”, but it takes some time to craft if you don’t have a pre-made block.

Here are quick steps on how to make a lamp taller with some wooden pieces.

• Choose a base from an existing lamp that fits your style and needs
• Determine how much height you want
• Cut plywood or MDF to the correct size for the base
• Sand the edges for a smoother, more polished look (optional, or leave it a bit rough for something quirk)
• Customize the wood by painting or staining it to match your décor (optional, or keep them natural for that rustic vibe)
• Secure the wood to the base with screws to raise the lamp

Tip: Make sure the blocks are stable to safely support the lamp.

If your lamp has intricate designs or ornate details, skip this method (unless you're a skilled artist). A too-simple wood block might clash with an elaborate lamp and ruin your décor. Stick to clean, minimalist lamps for best results!

4. Utilize a Taller Base

If you want to increase lamp height without a complete makeover, just pop it on a higher surface, like a countertop, side table, bookshelf, windowsill, or even a stylish stool. This is a super quick solution that brings instant joy! You could even check out any furniture with built-in shelves at home for an extra boost.

Finding a higher surface to elevate your lamp

Remember that the surface you decide is secure and stable to prevent possible accidents. Also, keep an eye on the lamp’s height compared to the rest of your décor and light fixtures. Raising your lamp too high might lead to awkward lighting or an off-balance look in the room.

Think about putting your lamp on a console or accent table. Which one is taller? To help you decide, this comparison between Accent Table vs Console Table will truly help you.

5. Place on a Table

This trick is perfect for those table lamps or shorter floor lamps that just need a little extra lift to shine at the right angle. All you have to do is place it on any table in your home you think it best fits, and just like that, your lamp is taller.

Be sure to select a sturdy table that will not wobble or tip over easily to ensure the safety of your lamp. And don’t forget, your lamp should be the perfect size to fit your table.

Tall indoor tables like entry console tables (around 33 inches) can make lamps prone to falling if placed too high. Even worse, it may also cause harsh shadows or glare, straining your eyes. To avoid these, read our lamp size guide for an entryway table to get the ideal lighting setup.

Moreover, when setting up your lamp, keep it away from walls or furniture to avoid any fire hazards. Especially, if you’re using a tablecloth, be careful that it doesn’t hang down too low and touch the lamp, better to be safe than sorry!

6. Use Longer Bulb Socket

If you want to add some extra lamp height for broader light, consider swapping out the existing bulb socket for a longer one. It might not create a dramatic height difference, but it’s a sneaky way to elevate your light source.

Some bulb sockets even come with adjustable extenders that can tweak the height to your liking. Before buying, check the new socket is compatible with your lamp and the bulb you're using to ensure safe and effective lighting.

A longer bulb socket can be a quick solution for broader light in your living room. But you need to adjust it to the right height for optimal lighting in different living room areas. So, it’s time to consider this ideal living room lamp height.

7. Use Stack Books

If you're a bookworm with some well-worn favorites lying around, why not transform them into unique lamp height enhancers?

Stack a few books under your lamp base to give it some extra height. This is one of the quick and customizable lamp height solutions, perfect for temporary adjustments. You can add or remove books whenever you like.

However, if you're after a more permanent, stylish upgrade, follow these steps for a creative and lasting touch!

• Drill base book: Clamp and drill a hole in the center of the bottom book.
• Create cord channel: Cut a channel for the cord in the base book. Fasten the threaded rod to the bottom book using a washer and lock nut for a sturdy hold..
• Slide in wire: Thread the electrical wire through the rod and secure the base with screws.
• Stack books: Drill and stack each book on the rod, securing it with screws.
• Secure top book and attach lamp: Fasten the top book with screws. Attach the lamp kit and lampshade.

Need more detailed steps along with safety tips? Let’s gather your lamp, books, and tools and follow these steps on how to make a lamp out of books now.

In fact, It's not recommended to place books under a lamp as it can damage their spines. But hey, you can always use the old ones you no longer care about or have read countless times.

Safety First! Choose sturdy books, hardcover books are best for support. If you’ve got a heavy lamp, go for thick books which will ensure stability. Last but not least, avoid heat-sensitive books near warm lamps.

Often reading at your desk? If you’re stacking books to raise your lamp, you might wonder how high it should be to give your eyes the perfect light. Then, this desk lamp size guide is truly for you.

8. Mount on Wall Shelves

Mounting your lamp on a wall shelf is an exciting challenge! It lifts your lamp high, freeing up precious floor space while adding some unique decor to your room. Sure, it’s a bit of a project.

Before you get started, check out these safety tips:

• Ensure the shelf is firmly in place before you pop that lamp on
• Grab some sturdy hooks or a trusty mounting bracket for support
• Use a reliable cord and secure setup to keep things accident-free
• Make sure the lamp is lightweight for wall shelves, as heavier lamps may need reinforced shelves
• Opt for lamps with narrower bases to ensure a snug fit on the shelf without overhanging

Mounting your lamp on a wall shelf is a winner for small spaces and modern décor. However, this isn't for everyone! If you're not a DIY pro,  you might turn that wall into a disaster zone instead of a masterpiece.

9. Use a Small Planter or Vase

Using a little planter or vase is always a clever move! Plopping your lamp inside one of these can instantly give it a height boost while bringing an artistic vibe as planters and vases are stylish all on their own.

Simply set the table lamp inside the vase and see how it instantly gains height.

Just make sure your planter is sturdy enough to hold the lamp steady. This trick works especially well with picky, or boho vibes, where those natural textures and shapes amp up the overall look.

10. Apply Longer Lampshades

We've focused on raising the lamp base, so let’s now turn our attention to the lampshade.

Search for taller shades to add extra height to the overall lamp structure and give more light. You can even add some rings around the top for a fun twist! Finally, replace your current one with your fabulous new find.

Ensure the new shade is compatible with your existing lamp to avoid electrical issues. And it should vibe well with your decor. This works best if you desire a more elegant or dramatic look without altering your beloved base.

Wondering if longer lampshades are right for your cozy bedroom that doesn’t need much light? Find your answer in our handy nightstand lamp-size guide.

11. Use Stilts

Yes, you read that right - stilts! You can use these additions to elevate a lamp from tables or floors and give it a charming, playful lift. The big plus point is that using stilts makes it easy to move your lamp without worrying about scratching surfaces or leaving marks.

Stilts come in various styles and materials. You can DIY stilts from wood or buy pre-made ones designed specifically for lamps. You can also add a pop of color or design to your stilts by painting them to match the decor in your room.

Just remember to secure those stilts like a pro! Use screws or nails to secure them to sturdy surfaces like wood or concrete.

12. Add a Longer Neck or Harp

Another way how to make a lamp taller is by replacing the lamp’s neck or harp with a longer version. The neck connects the base to the light socket, while the harp supports the lampshade.

While lamp necks offer plenty of design options but come in limited sizes, harps are the opposite, available in many sizes but with fewer design choices. Lamp harps heights range from 4" to 15" in 1/2" increments. This flexibility lets you position the lampshade at the perfect height.

If you’re about to buy a lamp harp to make your lamp higher, don’t forget to carefully check different types of lamp harps to pick the right one.

Swapping these for longer parts can give your lamp a sleeker, more elevated appearance. It’s a subtle yet effective change. Be careful not to choose a neck or harp that's so tall. Your current lampshade may not cover it fully, and the exposed light bulb can be quite unsightly.

Bonus: If you don’t want to replace your current harp, consider buying a lampshade riser which is attached to the top of the harp to raise your lampshade (and of course the whole lamp) and make your lamp more balanced and ultimately improve the brightness.

13. Use a Specialized Box

A decorative box can lift your lamp while keeping your tabletop tidy. Try wooden crates for rustic charm, woven baskets for a bohemian vibe, or simple storage boxes that elevate the lamp and provide extra storage for small items.

Place your lamp inside the box. For added height, use a thin layer at the bottom to create a platform, keeping the base hidden. This clever setup is simple yet effective and all without any cost!

Ensure the box fits the lamp properly and is sturdy enough to support its weight without bending or breaking. A box that is too small may make the lamp unstable, while one that is too large can create a cluttered look. Choose the right size for a stable and stylish setup.

14. Add Decorative Accents

The last way to make a lamp taller is by adding finials to the top of the lamp. These delightful little additions are available in various styles to perfectly fit any room theme. Alternatively, you can also create the illusion that your lamp is taller with decorative accents such as tassels, beads, or fringes around the bottom of the lampshade.

These are creative, low-effort ways to make your lamp feel taller and more unique. However, they won’t do much for the brightness but give a little boost to your decor. 

Keep it cohesive and harmonious, though! Too many embellishments can turn your lamp into a cluttered chaos. So, have fun, but don’t go overboard!

5 Considerations When Increasing Lamp Height

Now you know creative ways for lamp height improvement. Whether you aim for better lighting or simply want to refresh your decor, there are several key factors to consider.

Balance and Stability

When you’re figuring out how to make a lamp taller, balance and stability is key! A taller lamp can create a stunning focal point, but it also needs to stand stable and firm.

You should go for a base that is wide enough to support the added height. If the lamp feels wobbly, it can easily tip over, and a disaster waiting to happen, especially with curious kids or pets around. A solid platform or box can help, but always give it a stability check before calling it a day.

Planning to place a tall lamp on your end table at arm level with your sofa? First, check the ideal lamp height for end table to avoid wobbling and guarantee stability.

Aesthetic Style

Your taller lamp should vibe with the room's style, not hog all the attention. A tall, sleek lamp can bring a modern touch to your space, while a more ornate style can add a classic feel.

It’s like choosing the perfect accessories to complete your outfit. Materials and colors should complement your furniture and walls to create a seamless look. And if you're feeling creative, switch up the lampshade or add some fun decorative accents to match its new height.

Got a modern sofa table and think of buying a new lamp to put on? Discover the ideal sofa table lamp height that enhances your decor without overshadowing the furniture.

Electricity Safety

This factor is a top priority. Always unplug the lamp before making any changes. Make sure the cords aren’t stretched or pinched, and keep them neat to avoid fire risks. If you're adjusting the lamp's neck or harp, double-check that everything is connected properly. If you're unsure, don't hesitate to ask a professional for help.

Type of Base

The base of your taller lamp needs to be strong and steady. You can use a decorative box, wooden crate, or a stylish stand to elevate the lamp base while matching your room's look

Once again, always prioritize safety. A wide and strong base is better for lifting the lamp because it keeps it balanced and stable. Avoid using a narrow or weak base for elevation, as it could easily tip over.

Consult with Experts

If you’re unsure about how to make a lamp taller safely and effectively, don't be afraid to ask for help! Electricians can give you great tips on how to increase the lamp's height without risking safety. At the same time, interior design experts can suggest products or changes that fit your style and needs perfectly.

Wrapping Up

And there you have it! How to make a lamp taller is way simpler than you might imagine. Whether you stack books, add a chic riser, or get crafty with a new lamp base, you've just upped your DIY lighting job. 

Your lamp is now shining brighter and standing taller with more pizzazz. So, go ahead and give your favorite lamp a little lift. Who knew that adding a few extra inches could totally change your whole room's mood?