If you’ve ever kept an old bike in the garage, here’s the perfect excuse to give it a second life.
You can see each scratch on the rim carries memories of rides through parks or city streets, now turned into a light that brightens your evenings.
The combination of metal spokes, a natural wooden base, and the headlamp creates an industrial-meets-earthy look.
It’s simple, stylish, and surprisingly easy to make with just a few tools. Best of all, it feels like building a piece of your own history into your home.
Materials Needed
- 1 old bicycle wheel (half or quarter cut works well)
- 1 vintage-style headlamp or spotlight
- Wood base (around 10-12” diameter, sturdy enough to hold weight)
- Electric lamp kit with cord and switch
- Drill and screws for mounting
- Optional: matte black paint
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Clean the bicycle wheel and, if you like, give it a coat of matte black paint for a sleek finish. Let it dry fully.
Step 2: Prepare the wooden base by sanding it smooth and applying stain or varnish if you want a polished look.
Step 3: Cut your wheel section (half or quarter circle) so it stands upright without wobbling.
Next, use screws to secure the wheel firmly onto the wooden base.
Step 4: Attach the lamp head to the top section of the wheel, aligning it so the light shines forward.
Then drill a small hole in the wheel rim if needed for secure fitting.
Step 5: Thread the cord neatly through the wheel spokes or along the rim, then connect it to your lamp head using the electric kit.
Step 6: Test your lamp, adjust the angle of the light, and place it in your favorite spot.
Tips:
For a cozy vibe, use a warm Edison bulb inside the lamp head.
If you’re aiming for a sportier style, leave the wheel in its raw, scratched form to show off its cycling history.