The Glitter Lamp

I created this lamp for my clients daughters room, she just turned 14 and they have moved into a new townhouse in Hyde Park. So it was decided it was time to update her room and give her a more sophisticated look for high school.

This is just one of the original pieces that I created for her. 

         

When I found this lamp at Ikea I thought it was a great clean piece, but kind of boring for a 14 year old. So I put it into the back of my mind as an option just incase I found a cool lampshade or some way to make it a little more interesting.  While out shopping with some friends I saw a glass hour glass full of sand and immediately remembered the lamp. It would be so great to fill it with something to and add that special touch that I was looking for.  Glitter immediately was the obvious choice, A- I  love glitter, B- using silver glitter would add that sparkly metallic punch, but it was still a neutral making it a great color to add to any room.  C- 14 year old girls also love glitter !

Step 1 : Gather your supplies 

I purchased the lamp and shade at Ikea there are different sizes but I spent 18.00 on the lamp and 9.99 on the shade. I also purchased two 16oz jars of glitter from Hobby Lobby, with coupons I think i spent 12.00.  You will also need some scrap paper, a plastic straw and a hot glue gun. 

Step 2 : removed the plastic plug that held the cord in place. 

I then created a small funnel out of scrap paper and at the bottom taped a plastic straw.  I know this sounds kind of elaborate to funnel glitter into a lamp, but the hole is so small that using the plastic straw made it a clean easy project to siphon the glitter into the lamp.

Step 3: Add glitter ! 

(Easier said then done)

Just take your time, I found that the best method was to add small amounts at a time and lightly tap the straw to keep the glitter moving through the funnel 

Step 4 : 

(I apologize I don't have a picture of this, I did not have enough hands) 

Once you have decided that you have the amount of glitter desired replace the plastic plug, I also added hot glue to make sure that it was completely sealed. 

Sealing the lamp in very important, we all know how dangerous glitter can be !

Over all this project was a easy quick change that made a large impact. Anastasia loves her new room, but I received a text last week telling me how much she specifically loves the lamp.

- Joshua