Materials: Metal can
Metal file
Light bulb
Drill and bits
Hammer
Brushes
Safety glasses
Lamp kit
Phillips and flat-head screwdriver
Lampshade (butterfly mount works best)
Nail
Acrylic paint
Spray shellac
- Clean up a one-gallon metal can, the kind you get coffee or vegetables in. Only one end should be cut open.
- Use a nail to tap an indentation in the middle of the top of the can (figure A) and in the side about 1/2" from the bottom edge.
- Drill a 3/8" by 1/2" hole at each of the tap marks. Someone may need to help you hold the can while you drill (figure B) because the can tends to move as you are drilling. Use a metal file to sand off any burrs.
- Paint the can and the lampshade to match (figure C). For best results, do not paint the shade with a solid or dark color -- just a few simple designs in light colors will do. Let them dry, then spray both with finishing shellac to seal.
- Next, have an adult help you mount the light socket in the can and wire the lamp kit. Follow the instructions included with the kit. It is a simple process but requires adult supervision! Never attempt to do this without an adult present (figure D).
- Install a light bulb rated for your light kit -- usually a 25- or 40-watt bulb. Check the side of the socket or the kit instructions for the appropriate rating.
Tips: - Always have an adult help you with the wiring of this lamp. Never play with electricity! It can be dangerous.
- Have adult supervision anytime you use tools.
Products are available at craft and hardware stores nationwide.
RESOURCES :
Liquitex Concentrated (Acrylic Paint)
ColArt Americas
Piscataway, NJ 08855-1396
Fax: 732-562-0941
Lamp Kit
Angelo Brothers Company
Philadelphia, PA 19154
Ideas for Great Kids' Rooms
Model: 0376017546
Author: Susan Lang
Sunset Publishing Company (Division of Time Warner)
Website: www.sunset.com
Kids' Rooms: Ideas & Projects for Children's Spaces
Model: 0811828417
Author: Jennifer Ley
Chronicle Publishing Company
Website: www.chroniclebooks.com
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