Create a Garden Lamp Post from Scrap Wood and Old Lamp Parts

Introduction

Building a custom lamp post for your garden can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. Lamp posts add charm and atmosphere to any outdoor space. With just some scrap wood, an old lamp, basic tools and materials, and a bit of creativity, you can make a one-of-a-kind lamp post for your yard.

In this article, I will walk you through the complete process of creating a garden lamp post from start to finish. I will cover sourcing materials, designing the post, assembly, wiring, and lighting elements. Whether you want an elegant, classic style or something more rustic, this project can be customized to match your taste and garden style.

Planning Your Lamp Post Design

The first step is deciding on the style and size of the lamp post. Consider the overall look you want to achieve. Some aspects to think about:

• Height - Standard lamp post height is 5-6 feet tall. Adjust based on your needs.
• Width - 4-6 inches wide is typical. Wider if you want a sturdy, substantial post.
• Material - Recycled wood is ideal. Salvage old fence boards, barn wood, crates, etc.
• Shape - Square, rounded, octagonal, or turned/tapered posts are common.
• Light source - Will you use an old lamp or integrate new lighting?
• Hardware - What brackets, finials, and other decorative hardware will you attach?

It's helpful to browse examples online or in garden catalogs to choose your inspiration. I recommend sketching some initial designs to visualize the finished product.

Gather Your Materials

Here are the main items you will need to construct the post:

• Wood boards - For the main post structure. 1x4, 1x6, or 2x4 boards are typical.
• Scrap wood - For decoratively patching or inlaying into the post.
• Lamp - Vintage or new. Wiring harness if using a new fixture.
• Finial - Ornamental cap for the top of the post. Can be metal or wood.
• Hardware - Screws, brackets, staples, etc. Get galvanized or coated metal hardware for outdoor use.
• Tools - Saw, sander, drill, staple gun, level, tape measure, etc.
• Paint/Stain - Exterior grade finish.
• Caulk - For sealing joints. Use exterior caulk.

Shop your scrap piles, flea markets, salvage yards, or home improvement stores to acquire materials. Part of the charm is repurposing wood and lamp parts.

Constructing the Post

Once you have gathered materials, now the fun begins! Start construction with these steps:

1. Cut Pieces to Length

Cut your straight wood boards to your desired height and width. I recommend cutting two or three boards for the main post structure. The lamp wiring will run inside this post, so don't make it completely solid.

Miter cut the ends of boards at 45 degree angles if making an octagonal or round post. Cut small scrap pieces to use for decorative patching.

2. Assemble Main Post Structure

Attach boards together using exterior wood screws or galvanized nails. Drill pilot holes to prevent splitting. Construct panels that make up the sides of the post.

Use scrap pieces to patch decorative forms and shapes into the post sides. You can get creative with cutouts, inlaid initials, geometric or nature-inspired shapes, etc.

3. Shape and Taper the Post (Optional)

For a classical tapered post, mark guidelines on the post sides to show the taper. Carefully shape with a rasp or sander. Round over edges and distress as desired.

4. Finishing Touches

Once structure is complete, prep and finish the wood. Fill holes/gaps with caulk. Sand with increasing grit sandpaper. Paint or use exterior stain/sealer.

Attach decorative hardware like brackets, finial, lamp holder, and lighting. Consult lamp wiring guides as needed.

Lighting and Placement

For lighting,you can wire in a new fixture or lamp. Make sure to use outdoor-rated materials. Run wiring up through the inside of the post.

Place your finished lamp post in your garden and shine the light! Decorating the base around the post with plants or landscaping materials completes the look.

With some recycled materials, tools, and creativity you can build your own custom garden lamp post. Part of the reward is designing it yourself and seeing it come to life. Let your lamp post become a charming focal point in your outdoor space for years to come.