Imagine a tiny figure swinging gently while glowing softly to light your evening. That’s the magic of this DIY swing lamp, it tells a story with every flick of the switch.
The figure’s head shines bright while its simple frame sits on a handmade swing, giving the impression that your lamp has come to life.
It’s more than just illumination, it’s whimsy captured in wood, wire, and light.
Materials Needed
- 2 sturdy wooden planks (about 12” tall for the sides)
- 1 wooden base (approx. 12”×6”)
- 1 wooden dowel or copper rod (to act as the swing bar)
- Small wood board (approx. 3”×2”)
- Rope or jute twine (about 2 feet)
- Electrical wiring kit with bulb socket
- Round bulb (LED recommended, warm white)
- Flexible wire or small metal rod (to form the figure’s body and legs)
- Screws, drill, and wood glue
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Build the frame. Attach the two vertical wooden planks to the base using screws or strong glue, leaving about 6” of space between them.
Step 2: Add the swing bar. Drill holes near the top of each vertical plank and insert your dowel or copper rod through to act as the crossbar.
Step 3: Create the swing seat. Cut a small piece of wood and drill holes at both ends.
Next, thread rope or jute through and tie securely around the swing bar.
Step 4: Shape the figure. Use flexible wire or a thin rod to create a stick-figure body, bending it to form arms and legs.
You now attach it firmly to the swing seat so it looks like it’s sitting naturally.
Step 5: Wire the lightbulb. Install the bulb socket at the top of the figure as the head.
You run the cord neatly through the back of the figure and down the frame to keep it tidy.
Step 6: Screw in the bulb, plug in, and enjoy the sight of your glowing little swing companion bringing fun energy to the room.
Tips:
Painting the wooden frame black or leaving it rustic with a clear finish completely changes the vibe.
You can keep it raw for a cozy farmhouse feel or paint it for a more modern, quirky look.