Got an Ikea lamp and you want to have a non-Ikea shade? Fix that problem for less than $3!

I searched everywhere for a fast, easy solution, a little gizmo or adapter or something, all to no avail. After giving it some thought I realized the way to fix the problem.

Step 1: Ikea Socket, Too Large for Regular Lampshades

Yes, it's the socket that's the problem. It's too large to hold regular lampshades. You guessed it: change the socket.

Step 2: Broken Socket.

It was not budging, it was not unscrewing, it did not want to move. I accidentally broke the socket trying to get it off. That's when I realized that was the only way this one was coming off. Hopefully your experience will be different!

Step 3: Attach New Base.

Attach the new base, pulling the wires through beforehand. Next up, wire the socket. Super easy.

Step 4: Voila!

You now have a new socket that will hold any lampshade! Well, sans an Ikea one. The lampshade world is your oyster now.

Step 5: Add Shade and Bulb And...

you are good to go!

Step 6: Your New Lamp!

Your old lamp is brought to life with a brand new shade! Come read the whole story over on my blog: http://humboldtartdept.blogspot.com/2014/11/ikea-lamp-non-ikea-shade-problem-solved.html