Recycle Lamp

Recycle LampWe like to think you should never give up on a lamp. No matter how old it is, there has got to be some sort of use for it.

If you are unable to perform repairs to make your lamp fully functional, it can always be upcycled for another use. Here are some creative ideas that will help you make the most of your lamp parts.

Adjustable Lamp Planter

This is a great use for a floor lamp that no longer works. Simply turn the head of the lamp upside down and use it as a planter. A lamp with an adjustable base will come in handy as you can use it to move the plant in various positions so it gets the maximum amount of sunlight.

Alternately, just about any lamp shade can be inverted and used as a planter.

Lamp Shade Windchime

An old lamp shade can easily double as a wind chime. You can strip away the shade itself…or not. Either way, it will make a great base for hanging objects that chime in the wind. Add a hook on top so you can hang it from your doorways and canopies to give your exteriors that something extra.

Chandelier Bird Feeder

An old chandelier makes a great bird feeder. Prop it up outdoors and use the candleholders to hang bags of birdseed from or place the seeds directly in the candle bases.

Candle Holders

Speaking of the candle holders on chandeliers, these can be detached and used as bases for candles that you can burn around the house. They will make a lovely addition to your interior.

Lampshade Mobile

Have a baby at home? Instead of running out to get it a mobile, you can use a lampshade to make your own. Strip off the shade and decorate the base with colorful ribbons and paints. You can also hang items from the bottom making sure they are securely affixed. Hang it from a hook above your baby’s bed so it spins to provide aural stimulation.

Reuse it as a Table

If the base of your lamp is high enough, it can transform into the bottom of a table. Simply put a flat piece of wood on the top, apply uniform paint and you have a useful piece of furniture which can be put next to the sofa, bed or anywhere else in the home.

Glass Lampshade Terrarium

A terrarium is a glass container that contains soil and plants. Invert a round glass lampshade once used for a pendant light, fill it with rocks, soil and plants, and you have a lovely tropical piece that brings light into your home.

If your lamp breaks down on you, the first thing you will want to do is try and repair it. But if all else fails, it’s good to know there are plenty of ways you can turn it into a beautiful and useful home object. Which of these will be trying out when your lamps have their last hurrah?