There are so many decorative light bulbs available to buy now that look so awesome when switched on but once the lampshade is added the effects are lost. I made this block lamp so the effects could be seen when in use.
I made my wooden block out of scraps of wood glued together to make a chunky block. Once the glue was dry I cut the wood using a table saw to the size I wanted. When I was happy with the size I cut some grooves into the block using the table saw for a more decorative look. I use all recycled materials for my projects so if you want to know how to find them check out my post how to get your DIY materials for FREE .
I only wanted the light bulb to stick out of the block and all the fittings would be hidden inside the block. If I had the correct size spade bit it would have been so easy just to drill out the centre hole for the fittings.
But I only had the correct size in a hole saw. I cut down as far as I needed with the hole saw first. Then used the biggest spade bit I had to remove as much of the middle as I could, and used a hammer and chisel to remove the rest.
I drilled a hole big enough for the electrical cord to fit in and chiselled out a groove for the cord so it would sit flush on a table. I used a round file to clean up the groove.
The hole was routered out for a nicer look and the block was sanded smooth. I also remove all the corners with the router for a softer look.
I stained the wood using a cedar stain and added 2 coats of clear gloss varnish.
I stained the wood using a cedar stain and added 2 coats of clear gloss varnish.
They look great with all the new decorative light bulbs.
