Woodpunk LED Desk Lamp

Step 11 Additional Modifications

I left my lamp unpainted and unsealed.  If you'd like to stain all or part of your lamp, or give it a coat of protective sealant, feel free to do so!  Just be sure to use something that isn't sticky, or the lamp may not move so easily.  Also, it would probably be a good idea to paint the pieces before assembling them!

I used an LED light bulb for my lamp because it looks awesome.  Any LED "spotlight" you find should work fine here, because they are already focused and don't need a real reflector.  However, if you're using an LED or fluorescent bulb that sends light in all directions, you're going to have to rig up a proper reflector or you'll be effectively staring into a bare bulb!  One thing you could do is use the reflector from the scavenged desk lamp.  It should attach to the "wrist" with a minimum of effort with the right set of wood spacers - but it won't look as cool.

Also, I would not recommend using an incandescent bulb with this lamp.  They dump out a ton of heat, and I have no idea what effect that will have on the wood immediately next to the bulb.  I really don't want to hear "I burnt down my house!" from any of you, ok?

You may also be tempted to extend the length of the arms.  Feel free to do so, but be aware that the base will then need to be made heavier, or will need to be clamped to the desk to prevent the whole thing from tipping over.

Lastly, you may want to design an entirely different light for this lamp.  You could use strips of LEDs, or LED ring lights, or anything else your imagination can conjure.  Have fun with it and make it your own!

EDIT:  Instructables user welderdoc sent me these epic photos of his version of the Woodpunk Lamp.  It is made of 1/4" and 1/2" black acrylic.  Fantastic work!