Grandma’s china doesn’t have to stay boxed up in storage, why not let it shine?
By turning a vintage teacup and saucer into a lamp, you capture the grace of afternoon tea and add a touch of nostalgia to your space.
The floral patterns glow softly when lit, creating a warm, welcoming ambiance.
It’s a project that blends old-world charm with practical creativity.
Materials Needed
- 1 vintage teacup with matching saucer
- Flexible copper or brass pipe (10-12” length)
- Lamp kit with small LED bulb
- Drill with ceramic/glass bit
- Epoxy adhesive (strong enough for ceramics)
- Optional: floral fabric cord to match the china’s design
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Drill a small hole in the saucer’s center and another at the back of the teacup, big enough for the cord to pass through.
You should go slowly and use water to cool the bit.
Step 2: Feed the lamp cord through the copper pipe, then through the saucer and into the teacup.
Step 3: Secure the pipe vertically into the saucer with epoxy, letting it cure fully.
Then attach the teacup to the top of the pipe so it appears as if it’s pouring light downward.
Step 4: Fix the socket and bulb inside the teacup. You should test the lamp before final assembly.
Step 5: Place the saucer base on a stable surface and enjoy your whimsical new lamp.
Tips:
Teacups with gold trim or bold floral prints glow especially beautifully.
You can also mix and match patterns if you don’t have a complete set, it adds quirky charm.