Previously I made a smaller version to this lamp (You can check it out here.) I got a ton of requests on it to make a more simple version. I took many of the feedback and I came up with this beauty. Most of the work is in the prepping, but I felt this was much easier to make. I used a piece of oak tree branch spray painted it black and wrapped it with LED string lights. The base is made of high strength concrete but could be made of wood as well. The LED light is radio frequency aka (RF). This allows the controller to be housed inside the concrete base and keep a clean look. The lamp is quite large and can easily be placed in a corner. It could also be a great feature to your outdoor space.
Want to make your own?
1. Led String Light – http://amzn.to/2koQPfq
2. Felts Sheet – http://amzn.to/2lJowbY
3. Cement Click Here
4. Large vase ( I used a 24in tall x 7in)
5. Drill bits – http://amzn.to/2kwnv1P
6. Random tree branch
7. Spray paint https://amzn.to/2pLPbVA
9. Metal flashing http://amzn.to/2hvS7TZ
- Mixing bucket
- Shovel
- Tin snips https://amzn.to/2A4NPLs
- Masonry drill bits https://amzn.to/2CarGwX
- Drill https://amzn.to/2A6gqQG
- Hot glue cun https://amzn.to/2yxkUxX
- Sandpaper (120, 220 grit) https://amzn.to/2IQuFMj
N/A
DIFFICULTY
Intermediate
PROJECT COST
$60
ESTIMATED TIME
2 days
See the Video
STEP 1
Making the Storage for Led Controller
I took a piece of foam from a shipping package and cut it to create a cylinder. I then used tape to secure it together. Next, I cut out a circle from the same foam to form the cylinder. Then used the hot glue gun to attach it. You could use a disposable cup to achieve the same thing.
STEP 2
Creating the Concrete Form
I used a piece of metal flashing to create the concrete form.
First, I marked a line on the metal flashing, 5in from the bottom. This will be the exterior of the concrete base. Next, I marked a second line 2 inches above the first line. The 2nd line will be inside of the glass vase. Both lines should be parallel.
Now wrap the metal flashing around the vase. Close the flashing by taping the loose end. By the way, I’m using a large vase that’s 24 inches tall by 7 inches. You can find that at your local craft store.
Next, I took two 1 inch rubber seals and followed the line going around the interior, following the line, that was marked. I did this twice which gave me a two-inch path around the interior of the flashing. This part will shrink the interior, which will allow the vase to fit over the concrete.
STEP 3
Mixing the Concrete
Take a piece of aluminum foil, place it down on a flat surface. Then trace the vase followed by the foam cylinder or a paper cup as shown. Use hot glue to secure the cup, then add the flashing. Add hot glue around the flashing, this should be enough to hold the form.
Next, mix concrete and pour it in the form. The concrete should reach the top part of the rubber stripping.
After 3 days remove the flashing and rubber seal. Since the lower half of the concrete was nice and smooth, all I had to do was clean up the top half. Lightly sand it down to clean it up.
STEP 4
Using a Tree Branch
I took a tree branch and sprayed painted it black. The branch not only added an interesting look but it also helps hold up the string light. Depending on the size of tree branch you chose, use the appropriate size masonry bit. I ended up using a 1/2 inch bit to drill down to the bottom into the foam cup. Then, make sure everything fits nicely.
STEP 5
Install the Light
The LED string light has a controller and the controller has a power cord. I wanted the power jack to be easily accessible so I could quickly connect and disconnect. I drilled a hole slightly bigger than the jack on the lower part of the base. This should give it a clean look. Since the concrete form has a seam in it from the flashing I drilled the hole there. I then used hot glue to hold the power jack in the hole, and that should be strong enough.
Now, take the string light and pass it up through the hole in the concrete, the same hole for the tree branch.
STEP 6
Adding the Lights
Feed a few feet of the LED into the vase. Then place the branch in the vase and feed more LED as you proceed.
Now sit the vase on top of the concrete. I placed a felt pads on the bottom to protect any surface.
STEP 7
The Finish
I love the way this lamp came out. The LED String Lights work extremely well. I was able to get this lamp to work approximately 50 feet away. Hope you have a blast when you make yours. I would love to hear what you think about this.
