Create a unique wooden wall lamp.

Step 1: Design Lamp

starting from sketches I drew the basic shape i wanted to achieve.

Step 2: 3D Design

I used Maya to 3D model the basic lamp shape.

Then I output that model and ran it through Pepakura Designer. This software is usually used for paper craft. But I used it for the cut template for my boards.

After printing out my paper template at a much smaller scale I found this useful when comparing angles, and making sure things were coming together accurately.

Step 3: Measure Twice - Cut Once

At this point I had a really clear idea of what pieces I needed to assemble the lamp. I cut down a sheet of nice underlayment panel to width on the table saw.
Those pieces were then cut into triangles on a compound miter saw.

I set the angle of the cut to match the sides from pepakura.

Step 4: Assemble the Panels

After dry fitting the boards to verify the miters were tight, I needed something to help support the weight of the boards as the glue dry. Play dough was a good mold-able support.
I built the lamp in two halves then assembled the 2 sides. It was very exciting to see it come together at this point.

Step 5: Light It Up

After the glue had dried I unrolled a 6 meter strip of white LEDs. I purchased this set from amazon for $6. I unrolled the whole package and roughly laid it around the inside of the lamp frame. It went all the way around 5 times exactly.

So I peeled back the LED 3M adhesive and started to run them around the inside of the wood. making sure the plug was easily accessible to the wall.

Step 6: Diffuse Panel

I looked a few different materials for the front of this light, but I really liked the look and feel of this semi-transparent corrugated plastic sheet I picked up at our Home Depot. It was only $8 and I have a lot left over for another project. It feels sort of like the material some mail containers are made of.

Laying the lamp shape on top of the panel I traced the exact shape onto the plastic, and cut it with an exacto blade.

It fit in perfectly, a little snug with no "leaks"

I added a bead of high temp hot glue around the edge to keep it in place.

Step 7: Hang It Up - Plug It In

The frame is surprisingly strong, and holds it shape well.

Adding a small screw to the wall I hung the lamp shape from the wall and plugged it in.

It really lit up our homeschool room nicely which was the goal. It also offers a unique shape on the wall which is nice as well. Hope you enjoyed.

I think it would be fun to eventually add an arduino to activate a different color LED strip to alert us of a timer, or a reminder. If you have any comments or suggestions please let me know.