Make a funky table lamp

Sometimes a 'bright' idea can happen when you look at the price tag of a designer lamp that costs over R1000, and you think to yourself   "Wow, I could easily make that!"

 

craftynest.com

YOU WILL NEED:

Plastic file folders in assorted colours (available at Makro or stationery stores)
Scrapbooking punches (buy online from scrapbooking material suppliers)
Lamp base (and be sure to use a CFL globe as it generates less heat)
Nylon (fishing) line
Sewing needle

 

 

HERE'S HOW:

1. You can recycle any old lamp that you have lying around at home. The most important part of the lamp is the top ring to hang the strands from.

2. Use a scrapbooking punch to cut out all the circles for the project. It's nice to have at least two different sizes.

3. Use the nylon thread to sew each strand and attach the plastic circles - leave approximately 20cm at the top for fastening to the lamp frame. I made 30 strands, which makes a total of an hour and a half to sew them all. Backstitch the first and last circles. Just a few stitches will lock the thread in place.

DIY Tip:
You could also use a sewing machine to attach the circles, but have the stitch setting on the longest stitch to prevent splitting the plastic circles.

4. Tie each strand securely onto the top ring, spacing the strands as you go along.

5. Use a CFL bulb: It’s eco-friendly, and it generates less heat than a standard incandescent bulb. I didn’t want to risk melted plastic.