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There is nothing that makes this DIY’er happier than a few good finds from the thrift store. Seriously, chocolate comes really close, but coming home with treasures that cost about the price of a value meal rocks my world, for reals. Over the weekend I went to the local Goodwill and came home with these lovelies; 2 vintage style liquor bottles (very “Mad Men”)! At $3.99 a piece the bottles were a steal, I only wish I’d found more! I also found a cute little lampshade, so I thought I could make a lamp out of one of them! So I stopped off at Target and picked up a GE LED Energy Smart light bulb. 1 LED Bulb lasts as long as 15 traditional incandescent bulbs, can you imagine the savings?
Repurpose An Old Liquor Bottle Into A DIY Lamp
Materials:
Old cool looking liquor bottle (you can use any bottle or vase you like)
Lamp kit (available at any hardware store)
Lampshade
GE LED Energy Smart bulb (find these at the light bulb aisle at Target)
Strong adhesive
First, I cleaned the bottle and top with soap and water, and let it dry completely. Next, I put the lamp kit together according to the directions on the package. This was very simple to do! If you are making your own lamp be sure to use all safety precautions listed on the package.
After I tested the GE LED light bulb, I glued the base of the lamp socket to the liquor bottle.
I also glued the bottle top to the top of the lampshade and used it as a finial.
I thought this would serve as a little reminder of this lamp’s former life..as a liquor bottle.
The GE LED bulbs’ “soft white like” performance is perfect for the space. I was worried when I bought the bulb that the light would be too harsh, but just look at how soft and white it is! The lamp sits right next to our back door so it’s in the perfect spot to just switch on and not be shocked by strong light, it’s just soft enough for our eyes to adjust. I love it!
{See the DIY Wine Bottle Art here }
I did not drill into the bottle to run the cord through it for 2 reasons. First, I do not have the correct drill bit for it. Secondly, the cord was white (never ask your husband to make a hardware store run for you), so I thought it would be best if the cord hung exposed from the back of the lamp. There is a wall behind the lamp so you can’t even see it! If you would rather drill a hole in your bottle, then make sure to use a lamp kit that has a clear cord.
The clear bottle works really well with the other lamps in my dining space (also from the thrift store), as well as the acrylic knob on the drawer front.
Check them out in this pic below..and check out my desk turned into a buffet here!
This is definitely one of my favorite projects! It’s so versatile–you can easily make a lamp out of practically anything, for just a few bucks!
My DIY Lamp wasn’t only easy to make but if you choose the right base for it, it can add a ton of character to your space, especially with the right light bulb!
Now the question is..what to do with the other vintage liquor bottle? What do you think?
Heather {Brie Brie Blooms} says
This is a great idea and I love that the GE Energy Smart bulb gives a perfect glow to your new lamp! I have so many different old bottles to use for this project. #client
Barbara @ Chase the Star says
Thanks Heather!
Sara Blake says
Wow, I have never seen a kit like that! I have a few old bottles that could use this makeover! Thanks for sharing! #client
P.S. I love the decor in your house!
Barbara @ Chase the Star says
Thanks Sara! You’re the sweetest! They sell those kits at any hardware store, very easy to use and inexpensive! Definitely give it a try with those old bottles you’ve got :)