Come see this amazing transformation! Amanda from The Hand Me Down House took a $15 Craigslisted light fixture and turned it from a dated lantern-style box into an updated light inspired by a Pottery Barn design. You will thrill to her cleverness, trust me! This is a true example of Dollar Store Crafting: finding something you like, and finding a way to make it for a fraction of the price. [how to make a PB-Inspired Lamp]
Before: Boxy Lamp
Project Estimate:
- Old light fixture, $15
- S-hooks, $1.09
- 3 one-foot sections of chain, $1.62
- 3/14″ 24 gauge steel hanger strap, $1.64
- Large vase, $10
- Ribbon, on hand or $1
- Paint, on hand
- Gorilla glue, on hand
Total: $29.34 (compare to PB’s $269)
Savings: $239
You could save even more money if you already have an old light fixture hanging around (I have one in my garage). Also, Amanda pointed out that the PB lamp glass looks like an inverted glass cake cloche–using one would be another awesome option!
Found this project via the CSI Project! Such a fun site!

4 Comments
Amanda
Wow that’s a heck of a savings! Looks awesome!
Lori Allred
Oh my goodness..,please come redo my ugly dining room light/fan. This turned out amazing. Thanks for the great inspiration!
Jenna Stout
I love your blog and the idea behind your blog! I think looking through magazines such as pottery barn can be very inspirational! I just did my own repurposing project using and old lightbulb as well! In case you would like to take a look-http://jennaelizabethstout.wordpress.com/2014/02/28/light-bulb-rebirthed-as-retro-vase/