Transforming old lamps and lamp shades into unique pieces of décor is a creative endeavour that combines the joy of upcycling with the satisfaction of crafting. While shopping for supplies at a hobby store can be a thrilling experience, there’s also something to be said about getting creative with items you already own or stumble upon at thrift shops. The process requires a distinct kind of imagination and resourcefulness, making it just as enjoyable as any other DIY project.
20 Amazing DIY Upcycling Ideas for Lamps and Lamp Shades Any Crafter Will Love
Upcycling offers a multitude of benefits, including the ability to declutter your home and reduce waste. This eco-friendly approach can be especially helpful during Spring Cleaning. Not only does it allow you to repurpose ‘junk’ items, but it also enables you to upgrade them, giving them a new and improved purpose in your life. The possibilities are endless when it comes to transforming ordinary objects into extraordinary ones.
For instance, lamps and lamp shades provide an ideal canvas for creative expression. By breathing new life into these fixtures, you can not only create something visually striking but also learn new skills such as wiring and construction. With upcycling, the options are limitless, and we’ve scoured the internet to bring you 20 innovative lamp upcycling ideas that cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
From repurposing old lamps into plant holders or unique décor stands, the possibilities are truly boundless.
Unique Chicken Wire Lamp Shade Basket
Combine the rustic charm of chicken wire with the elegance of a lamp shade and you’ll create a unique piece that’s perfect for any occasion. The flared-out style of the lamp shade provides an ideal base to turn into a basket, making it versatile enough to hold Easter eggs, Halloween decorations, or even plants year-round. To give your creation a personalized touch, simply add some spray painting to match your desired aesthetic.
Perfect DIY Lamp Shade Sunburst Mirror
Elevate your home decor with a stunning DIY sunburst mirror project that showcases the power of upcycling. With just an aged lamp shade and some creative flair, you can transform ordinary materials into a breathtaking piece that will leave your guests in awe. Simply gather twine, any additional embellishments you desire, and attach them to the mirror for a unique, eye-catching design that’s sure to spark conversation.
As you proudly display your creation, you’ll be highlighting not only your creative prowess but also the potential for transforming discarded items into remarkable works of art.
Upcycled Light Fixture Succulent Plant Holders
Transform an old light fixture into a one-of-a-kind succulent planter that will provide years of enjoyment. This DIY project is perfect for small fixtures like those found in bathrooms, offering ample space for each succulent to thrive while also creating a truly unique home decor piece. While some extra effort is required, such as cutting wood, the end result is well worth the time investment.
With this upcycling idea, you’ll not only be reducing waste but also adding a touch of personality to your space.
Great DIY Brass Lamp Makeover
Vintage lamps, despite their dated appearance, don’t necessarily have to be relegated to the scrap heap. Take those retro brass lamps as an example. You might stumble upon one while digging through storage bins, rummaging through your basement, or browsing at a consignment shop. While they may still hold charm on their own, why not take it up a notch by giving them a subtle aged makeover?
The coveted green patina of historic copper statues is achievable with the right tools and techniques, transforming what was once an eyesore into a unique focal point in your child’s room or even nursery.
Upcycled Lamp Base Pedestal Planter
Upcycle vintage metal lamp parts to add a touch of retro flair to your plant collection. The abundance of parts and classic designs make them an ideal candidate for creative repurposing. Consider using a larger lamp piece as a base for this pedestal planter project, paired with a candle holder that serves as the inspiration for painting the lamp part. Since many metal lamps feature intricate designs, any color palette can work beautifully.
The result is a charming, small planter that can be placed almost anywhere to inject some personality into your indoor and outdoor spaces.
DIY Broken Upcycling Lamps Cake Plate Idea
While it’s natural to feel inclined to discard a broken lamp, consider repurposing it instead. With minimal supplies, you can breathe new life into your old lamp by transforming it into a unique cake plate. Heavy-duty glue is the key to this project’s success, allowing you to secure the lamp base to the decorative plate of your choice. Add some personality with paint and watch as your once-fragile lamp becomes a charming, sturdy cake plate that will be the envy of all who see it.
Cute Retro Upcycled Glass Globe Lamps
Imagine strolling through a vintage market or scouring thrift stores for hidden gems that can be transformed into something extraordinary. The humble glass lamp from the 1960s is one such treasure. With a little creativity and resourcefulness, these retro lamps can be upcycled into an impressive globe tower. Begin by collecting lamps in various colors to create a unique mosaic effect. Once you have your desired height and color palette, start constructing your masterpiece.
The beauty of this project lies in its versatility – the classic lamps come in a range of hues, allowing you to experiment with different combinations. Place your finished tower outside in a sturdy planter, adding a pop of personality to your lawn while also celebrating sustainability through repurposing.
Cool Upcycled Utensil Table Lamp
Upcycling an old lamp is not only a creative way to breathe new life into a worn-out item, but it’s also a great opportunity to repurpose other household items that might otherwise end up in the trash. Utensils, for instance, are notorious for their short lifespan – they bend, discolor, or wear down quickly. By saving them and incorporating them into your lamp design, you can create a unique and eclectic piece of home decor.
If you don’t have an old lamp lying around, consider visiting a thrift store to find a vintage brass one that’s just begging to be transformed. Start by stripping the lamp shade body back to its bare bones, then get creative with your utensil collection – hang them from the shade or use them to create a colorful and textured cover. And why stop there? You can also give the lamp itself a fresh coat of paint or stain to match your new design.
Upcycling Lamps Turned Plant Holders
Transforming an old lamp part into a unique plant holder is a straightforward DIY project that requires minimal effort and time. By simply cleaning and painting the lamp, you can create a stunning piece that serves as a centerpiece for your dining room, patio, or any other area of your home. This upcycling project is perfect for beginners looking to dip their toes into the world of creative reuse.
With just a few simple steps, you’ll be able to breathe new life into an old item and enjoy the satisfaction of having created something beautiful with your own hands.
Affordable Upcycled Lamp Embellishment Stand
Upcycling isn’t just about giving old things a new life; it’s also about making decorating more budget-friendly. Take the example of a tall, slender lamp with an oversized shade – with some creativity and elbow grease, you can transform it into something truly unique. A fresh coat of paint can work wonders in revamping the lamp’s appearance, effectively turning it from something functional to something truly decorative.
But that’s not all – once you’ve removed the shade cover, you can repurpose the metal base as a makeshift display stand for showcasing your favorite knick-knacks and treasures. And if you’re feeling extra resourceful, you can even use paper clips to create a makeshift hanging system, perfect for displaying items for sale or simply showcasing your personal style within the comfort of your own home.
Side Table Upcycled Lamp Base
Turn a vintage lamp into a unique side table for your family room without spending a dime! Thrift stores and your own home are great sources to find an old lamp that’s no longer needed. With just a few simple materials like glue, paint, and a metal platter, you can upcycle this lamp into a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture in under an hour.
Not only will you be giving new life to something that would have otherwise ended up in the trash, but you’ll also be able to match your existing home décor and add some personal flair to the space. Plus, it’s a great way to get creative and show off your DIY skills!
Birdcage Lamp Potted Plant Holder
One of the most impressive aspects of this plant holder is its ability to repurpose multiple items. Abandoning the traditional route, you can transform a tall lamp’s base into a unique stand by removing the light fixture. This approach becomes especially advantageous when sourcing decorative lamps like vintage-inspired crystal ones. By incorporating these distinctive bases, you can elevate your planter’s visual appeal, departing from the standard store-bought options.
Taking it to the next level, adding a birdcage can further enhance this plant holder, allowing you to create a one-of-a-kind garden feature that showcases your potted plants in style.
DIY Lamp Shade Toy Basket
When it comes to decorating a playroom or bedroom for your child, the cost can quickly add up. With toys taking up valuable space, creating DIY storage solutions can be a clever way to save some cash. Next time you’re about to discard a broken lamp, don’t rush to throw away the shade – it could be the perfect foundation for a unique toy storage container. Even if you don’t have kids, this versatile piece can be repurposed in your office or kitchen as a quirky holder for larger items.
Not only will you be giving new life to an old item, but you’ll also be adding a pop of color and a personalized touch to your home’s décor.
Sweet Decorative Hanging Lamp Shade
Transform any space in your home into an inviting oasis by introducing a unique lighting fixture that surpasses the ordinary lamp. Upcycling lamps doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing their functional purpose; instead, you can repurpose the shade to cover a hanging light while embellishing it with eclectic fabric scraps. The visual appeal alone is sure to captivate anyone’s attention.
Once the lights are switched on, the fabric design will create an array of intriguing shadows that dance across the ceiling and room, filling the space with a sense of whimsy. This project may prove particularly effective in a child’s room, where kids can lie back and delight in pointing out the playful silhouettes.
DIY Wire Lamp Shade Plant Stands
Transforming a wire lamp shade into a plant holder is an innovative approach that not only adds functionality but also enhances the visual appeal of your plants. This creative project requires some effort as there are various ways to achieve this. One method involves using the bare lamp shade as a base for a plant vase that can fit snugly inside it, ideal for taller and wider shades.
Alternatively, you can extend the wire structure by gluing a wooden component onto the shade, creating a unique table stand for your plants. Both approaches successfully elevate your plants off the floor, placing them on a beautifully customized upcycled stand that reflects your personal touch.
Repurposed DIY Lamp Vignette Stand
Transform your home decor skills with this DIY lamp stand project, where creativity meets functionality. With some basic cutting, gluing, and painting, you can create a stunning piece of home décor that showcases your unique style. The project requires a distinctive lamp with three sections on the base to ensure stability and visual appeal once it’s painted. This innovative approach even allows you to repurpose an existing lamp component, seamlessly integrating it into the new design.
By upgrading an unused lamp base, you’ll not only breathe new life into a forgotten item but also demonstrate your ability to think outside the box and create something truly special.
Fringe Chandelier Amazing Upcylced Lamp
Transform any room into a vibrant space without breaking the bank or compromising on style! Instead of purchasing a chandelier, get creative and craft your own unique piece using a larger wire lamp shade frame and a wire basket. This DIY project requires some cutting and gluing, but it’s an excellent opportunity to showcase your artistic flair and handiness. The end result is a lively fringe chandelier that adds a playful touch when you give it a gentle swish.
Not only will this upcycled lamp be a delight to behold, but you’ll also have endless fun experimenting with its movement.
Holiday DIY Upcycled Lamp Project
This holiday season, why not try something unique and creative? Take an old lamp fixture and give it new life by turning it into a winter wonderland display. You can use small decorative items, such as people, buildings, or vehicles, to create a whimsical scene that will add a touch of magic to your home. Rather than leaving them scattered around, consider placing them inside the lamp fixture to create a unique lighting effect.
This upcycled project not only adds a festive touch but also promotes sustainability and reduces waste. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit while also being environmentally friendly.
Upcycled Fabric Lamp Shade Décor
Transform any room with this adaptable fabric lamp shade, upcycled to perfection. The vintage-inspired fabric’s ruffles and lace details add charm, making it suitable for various settings. Use it as a decorative piece to draw attention to cherished items like photo displays or trinket collections. Alternatively, hang it in a nursery for a unique mobile that exudes bohemian chic. With its versatility, the possibilities are endless and limited only by your imagination.
Vintage Upcycled Tired Lamp Serving Storage
Incorporating functional storage solutions into your home decor doesn’t have to mean sacrificing style or uniqueness. A tiered lamp constructed from upcycled materials is an ingenious way to achieve both purposes, seamlessly blending form and function. The glass bowls that serve as shades not only provide ample storage space but also become stunning visual focal points, each boasting its own distinct pattern.
This clever design element adds a touch of vintage charm, elevating the overall aesthetic without compromising its practicality.
20 Cool Upcycling Ideas for Lamps and Lamp Shades to Tackle for Your Next Project
Transforming old lamps and lamp shades into stunning works of art is a creative outlet that not only breathes new life into discarded items but also challenges your imagination. The possibilities are endless – from crafting unique plant holders to elevating lamps into show-stopping chandeliers or statement pieces, the act of upcycling can be both therapeutic and inspiring.
By sharing some innovative lamp upcycling ideas, we aim to ignite your creative spark and empower you to bring fresh, modern flair to your home decor. Rather than letting old lamps languish in storage or discard them entirely, why not get creative and give them a bold new makeover? Cut, paint, or combine with other materials to create one-of-a-kind masterpieces that will delight and amaze.
Our Favorite Outdoor Decor Lighting to buy on Amazon
Solar-powered lighting options have gained immense popularity in recent years, and for good reason. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they also provide a unique ambiance to any outdoor space. In this era of sustainable living, it’s no surprise that solar lights have become a staple in many backyards and gardens. From the classic Solar Path Lights to the more modern Solar LED Candle Lantern, there’s a wide range of options to suit every taste and style.
For those seeking a touch of whimsy, the Solar Hummingbird Wind Chimes or Solar Butterfly String Lights may be just the thing. Meanwhile, for a more rustic look, the Solar Mason Jar Light is an excellent choice. And for those who want to add some drama to their outdoor space, the Color-Changing Solar Windbell Light is sure to impress. Last but not least, the Hanging Solar Lights provide a beautiful and functional way to illuminate patios, decks, or even entire gardens.
