Architect Style Desk Lamp Base

In this instructable we show how to make a base for an arm style desk lamp.

One of the problems that I have always had with this type of lamp is that the clamp they come with is too flimsy and easily breaks, or the weighted base that comes with it is too light and easily tips over.

I have solved this problem in the past by using a steel drill press and making my own solid steel clamp to replace the plastic one (even the cheap cast metal clamps that some brands come with snap in two with very little effort and are thereby useless).

I need to install one of these lamps on my nightstand -- which doesn't have a `lip' for a clamp to clamp on to -- so I need to use the weighted base kind of stand. However, I want one that enables me to stretch out the arm without the whole thing tipping and falling on my head. So I decided to make my own base out of a heavy brick: 4.5" x 3.5" x 8" solid brick.

If you would like to make one, here is what you will need:

1. heavy brick, rock, or cinder block.
2. masonry drill bit, 1/2"
3. drill
4. arm style desk lamp
5. piece of rubber non-slip rug pad 4.5"x8"
6. glue gun

and about 1/2 hour of time.

Step 1: Drill the Hole

Drill a 1.5 to 2 inch deep hole in the center of the brick using the 1/2" masonry drill bit.

I poured water on the brick and in the hole at intervals to keep the temperature of the bit down as I drilled the hole. It took about 10 minutes.

Step 2: Glue the Rubber Pad

Now cut the rubber non-slip carpet pad (essentially rubber fabric) to the size of the bottom of the brick and use a hot glue gun to glue it on.

Step 3: Plug in the Lamp!

Now the lamp base should fit nicely in the hole on the brick, the rubber pad will prevent the brick from sliding or scratching the surface of your table, and it will be heavy enough that you can stretch the arm out and read in bed without the whole thing tipping over.

Now, off to read my book with my sugar snap peas and my new desk lamp!

G'night!