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Read on to see how I turned this retro decor don’t . . . into this chic design essential!

For some time now, I’ve wanted a tripod lamp. Although this type of lamp comes in a range of styles and at a variety of price points, I had a particular look in mind. My inspiration? I particularly like the ‘Trico’ lamp (below left) with its solid walnut base and broad silk shade (available at CTO for £592) as well as this long and lean tripod lamp with a stained ash base and deep purple silk shade (below right, from Habitat UK for £105). Unfortunately, the models I coveted exceeded my reach.

I decided to challenge myself to see if I could create a version for less, using only materials I could source locally and affordably. I spent a few weeks searching Craigslist for a lamp. I didn’t see anything with tripod base, but I found something close. Before making the purchase, I looked closely at the lamp’s fittings to decide whether I could reassemble it. Thinking it could work, I brought it home and, gulp, took it apart.

Changing the colour of the legs was the easiest part, but took some elbow grease. I don’t have an electric sander so I hand sanded each leg (above left), first with a coarse sanding block, then with fine sand paper, wiping the dust away with a damp rag. After sanding, I used a foam brush to apply a water-based black stain for untreated wood (above right). It took 2-3 coats to get the level of opacity I desired. I joined the legs re-using some of the other lamp parts and a few odds and ends from my toolkit. It took a few tries but I was able to create a new base and rewire it. I purchased a white silk drum shade (Restoration Hardware, $20-70) and called it a day. Total cost for my dream lamp? Under $100.

Here’s another look at the finished product. It turned out great!