How to Wire an Old Lantern Into a Table Lamp

A recycled old kerosene lantern adds a nostalgic air to home decor --- the older the lantern the better. You can wire these familiar fixtures from barn and stable into safe table lamps for your living room or den. Peeling paint and a little rust add to the lantern's authenticity and charm. With a few tools and basic skills you can have an old lantern casting a new light in a short time. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Work on a stable counter or table. Place an old towel or folded blanket on the surface to cushion the glass chimney while you work. Remove the glass chimney. Clean it with warm soapy water, dry and set it aside.

2

Empty and thoroughly clean the lantern to remove all flammable liquid and dirt. Remove the wick. Drill a hole through the center of the lantern top. If your lamp has a loop or knob on the top, bend it over or remove it to leave room for drilling. Drill a hole in the side of the base for the cord.

3

Insert the threaded pipe from the lamp kit through the hole drilled in the top of the lantern, and add washers and nuts to secure it. Thread the electrical cord from the kit through the side hole and up through the wick holder, chimney and pipe.

4

Strip the cover from the end of the electrical cord about 2 inches, and also strip the two inside wires about 2 inches. Thread the end of the cord through the socket base from the kit, and attach the base to the threaded pipe. Tighten the side screw on the socket base.

5

Pull down the socket cover and attach one bare wire end to each contact screw on the socket. Thread the wire over the screw from left to right so the wire is pulled into the screw as you tighten it. Tuck in stray wire strands. Push the socket cover over the socket and securely into the base.

6

Attach the lampshade harp from the kit. Insert the bulb and attach the shade. Replace the chimney in the lantern. Switch on and enjoy your new lamp.