How to Make a Lamp Out of Almost Anything (No Wiring Required!)

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You all know I love a good DIY project, and this one might be the easiest (and most genius) yet. If you’ve ever wished you could turn a vase, candlestick, or even a plant pot into a lamp—this hack is for you. With just a rechargeable light bulb and a simple lamp shade, you can create a cordless DIY lamp out of almost anything in your home. No wiring, no drilling, no stress—just instant cozy lighting wherever you want it.

This is hands-down one of my favorite DIY lamp hacks because it’s affordable, fun, and completely customizable. Ready to see how it’s done? Grab your supplies...

What You’ll Need

• A sturdy decor piece (vase, candlestick, pot, or jar)
• A rechargeable cordless light bulb (USB chargeable)
• A lamp shade -I got mine from Hobby Lobby (similar linked) You'll want it to be on that attaches to the base of the light for this to work.
• Optional: felt pads or museum putty for stability

Step 1: Pick Your Base

Your home is full of potential lamp bases—you just don’t know it yet! Tall candlesticks make chic buffet lamps, vases are perfect for bedside tables, and even planters or jars can be transformed into statement lighting. Just make sure your base is heavy enough to support a shade without tipping over.

Here's a candlestick I used. It's heavy and has somewhat larger top part.

And here's another idea with this cute wicker bottle.

Step 2: Add the Light

Here’s the magic: simple add the lamp shade to the top of the vase or candlestick. Pop the bulb on top, and you officially have a lamp—without ever touching a wire! I like the rechargeable light bulbs that have a magnetic bottom. This helps keep it on a little bit better.

Here's the steps in pictures below:

Step 3: Style It Your Way

Place your new DIY cordless lamp on a nightstand, console table, or shelf and use the remote to turn it on! The best part is you’re not tied to an outlet, so you can finally add lighting to those dark corners or tricky spots in your home.

Instead of spending a ton of money searching for the “perfect” lamp, you can repurpose what you already own into something functional and beautiful. This DIY vase lamp trick is affordable, creative, and gives you the freedom to design lighting that actually works with your style! I love easy decor hacks like this!

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Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”