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How to make a Tropical Flower Lamp

Materials and tools:

tree branch
electric sander
saw
cutting tool
punch out
lamp
stain
polyurethane

Steps:

1. Start by sanding the bark off an eight-inch tree branch hard, leaving some on the bark for visual interest.

Tip:Use coarse, medium, and fine grit sandpaper for best results.

2. Using a table as a guide, cut out the parts of the tree to be cut with a saw and chainsaw. Sand rough edges hard.

3. Using shims and bracing the branch to a table, cut a channel through the back of the branch with a rotary cutter to create space for wiring. Sand rough edges.

4. Pick three spots from which the flowers will "bloom," and then drill a hole at a steep angle for the flower stems to fall through. Make sure the holes line up with the wiring channel on the back.

5. Stain the entire branch with a green stain.

6. Apply tung oil stain then buff and let dry overnight.

7. Apply polyurethane to the seal.

8. Remove the glass petals from their metal frames by bending the tabs.

9. Wash the glass.

10. Remove the flower frames, leaving about six inches of stem from the old floor lamp.

11. Burn the brass finish off metal frames with a torch.

12. Replace glass petals.

13. Arrange six flower stalks so they can rotate for optimal variety.

14. Turn on the flower lamp again.

15. Once the bulb location for the lamp has been found, use small nails to act as wedges to keep them from turning any further.

16. Mount to wall by countersinking holes and screwing to a stud or using anchors.

Project expenses:

Tree branch:Free
Flower Lamp:$20
Electricity:$5
Stain:$5

Total:$30