In order not to waste time in winter, many home craftsmen and DIYers disappear into the workshops. For example, they assemble furniture or make decorative interior items. One of the successful options is an antique pendant chandelier made from a cart wheel.
Brutal wooden round chandelier with forging.
Do you want to get an analogue for an inexpensive price? Read the article, which describes in detail how to make a wheel chandelier with your own hands.
Advantages and disadvantages
The undeniable advantages of wooden lamps: • environmentally friendly raw materials, the product is absolutely hypoallergenic; • ease of processing and installation; • presentable colorful design; • high strength. Among the disadvantages: the flammability of the material, the need for certain temperature conditions and humidity parameters, and the possibility of damage by insects.
To avoid the effects of negative factors, the product is coated with a special composition. Impregnated with the necessary substances, the tree is not subject to delamination, ignition, deformation and damage by insects.
Tip: it is better to use LED or energy-saving lamps, as they heat up less during operation.
The best option for a wooden lamp in the interior is a living room or bedroom. In rooms with high humidity (kitchen or bathroom), it is still better to use appliances made of other materials. Wooden products in a damp room require more careful care, but still lose their former luster over time. When exposed to moisture, the material may shrink or swell.
Advantages and disadvantages of wall lights
Installing wooden sconces has a number of advantages that more than compensate for several existing design flaws.
Among the positive aspects are the following:
- Stylish design. Lighting fixtures have a good variety of shapes, which allows you to create original products.
- Ease of operation and processing. To create metal or plastic masterpieces, you need specialized industrial equipment. A wooden lamp can be easily made using available tools. Wood is easy to work with and decorate.
- Environmentally friendly products. The tree does not emit hazardous chemical compounds. It enriches the air with the aromas of resins, which has a positive effect on the functioning of the respiratory system.
- Durability and long service life. Sconces made from sapwood have a long service life. After impregnation with solutions, the period of use of the lamp increases.
- Positive impact on a person’s emotional state. There is a theory that trees have a pleasant energy for humans.
However, wooden floor lamps have a number of small drawbacks, which must be familiarized with before making them.
Among the disadvantages of the design are the following:
- Increased flammability. Since wood burns well, incandescent lamps should be used with caution. This may cause a fire.
- Weak resistance to moisture. The tree is highly hygroscopic. It perfectly absorbs and accumulates water particles. To prevent deformation of the structure, it is necessary to prevent changes in temperature and humidity levels. Due to excessive moisture absorption, it is not advisable to install wooden lamps in rooms with a sink or bathtub.
In addition, wooden sconces often become the object of attention from insects.
Wood has the ability to accumulate moisture
Original ideas for wooden crafts
Studying interesting ideas will help you figure out what kind of wooden chandelier to make for your home. When choosing, you need to rely not only on the beauty of the product, but also on the complexity of execution and the required materials.
A simple option made of timber
The simplest homemade lamp made of natural wood will be the one with a minimum of details. One beam or board is used as a body, on the surface of which holes are made for 3-4 light bulbs. You can secure it using chains or a pipe; the wires will be neatly hidden in it.
A classic version of a wooden lamp.
Antique chandelier
It can be made in the shape of a wheel, but this is a massive lamp, it will decorate a restaurant well, and it will look beautiful in a house except in a large hall. For rooms, options from a combination of several natural-shaped boards are suitable. Additionally, the structure is equipped with lampshades and decorated with ropes. Chains are used for fastening.
Retro style product.
From tree branches
A good option is to use pendant lamps that twist around a branch. This design has the advantage of being easy to replace; at any time you can throw away the old branch and hang a new one.
Hanging chandelier made from a branch.
Wheel chandelier
A more complex option that will require carpentry tools. The chandelier consists of a central circle, spokes and a wheel rim. Chains are used for fastening. The lamps are installed in the form of imitation candlesticks and can be located either on top of the wheel or below.
Chandelier in the shape of a cart wheel.
From wooden beads
A beautiful option, usually consists of bases and shaping elements. The beads themselves are strung on a thread or vein. You can use either simply polished light beads or additionally color them.
Elements that give shape are required in the design.
From slats
From wooden slats you can make not only a chandelier, but also sconces, nightlights and other lighting fixtures. The work will require many slats of a certain size, which are laid one by one, and the light will pass through the holes.
Rectangular lamp made of slats.
Loft
Branded pendant lamps are perfect for the loft style. They can be placed on a wooden base without any problems. Not only massive timber is suitable here, but also boards of small thickness.
Wooden chandelier with pendant lights.
From LED panel
This lamp has a body made of wood, inside of which LED panels are installed. You can make large suspended structures of this type, but they are only suitable for rooms with high ceilings.
LED lighting can be used for the dining area in the kitchen.
The video contains unusual ideas for wooden lighting equipment for the home.
Wood floor lamp
This design combines two useful qualities: aesthetics and practicality.
The floor lamp looks stylish and modern, and at the same time does not take up much space, as it is made in the form of a corner cabinet.
How to make a lamp from wood with your own hands
, you can read in this article.
As the main material you can use boards, plywood, MDF. The lighting source in this case is an LED strip.
What you need for work
Depending on the design option, you need to prepare materials and tools in advance.
Tools and accessories
Materials you will need:
- Wood. This can be timber, boards, branches or small planks.
- Fastening elements. The base is usually made of the same wood; chains and hooks can also be used.
- Cartridges and lamps.
- Additional materials. Some designs may require metal, glass, ropes, or other materials.
What wood is used in lighting design
Premium brands choose wood due to its two qualities - aesthetics and environmental friendliness. There are no two completely identical patterns formed by veins. Modern processing technologies make it possible to preserve and highlight the uniqueness of each piece of wood.
Rosewood wood after processing
Valuable hardwoods are used in lighting design: oak, rosewood, boxwood, mutania, and Canadian maple. The point is to preserve the recognition of the material and, as a result, to emphasize the qualities associated with it: naturalness, luxury, comfort. Furniture and decor made from natural wood have always been a sign of prosperity, and this also works with lamps.
High-tech lighting
The high-tech style is characterized by simple objects that combine elements made from different materials. It can be wood and chrome. If glass shades are used, they are made of frosted glass. The shapes should be simple, without ornate patterns or designs.
The lamp emphasizes the working mood in the home office
Lamps of fancy shapes
At the same time, very simple and very unusual designer lamps with a wooden frame will bring a certain mood to the room where they will be placed. The choice of the shape and color of the light bulb is important - pay special attention to this.
Photo: cgtrader.com
Application in various interiors
The versatility of the material, painting in any color and combination with other materials opens up many design possibilities. Wooden chandeliers are relevant in the following styles:
- Retro. You can make an antique lamp from wood. The original option is the shape of a cart wheel with candle-shaped lamps located around the perimeter. This design is relevant for country houses, hotels, restaurants.
- Country. An interior style in which it is difficult to do without wood. Chandeliers of simple shapes without additional framing are suitable for it.
- Provence. The interior style has simple shapes, but here the structure will additionally need to be painted in light colors. For decoration, you can use small drawings of flowers and leaves.
- Loft. Rough wood and its combinations with metal and glass are popular in this style. Dark colors are mainly used. Chandelier in loft style.
- Eastern. For such a lamp you need solid wood. The main characteristics of the design are strict shapes and lines, decor with oriental motifs.
- High tech. For this style, wood will be only part of the structure; it will have to be combined with metal, frosted glass, and plastic.
General rules
There are a huge number of ideas for all kinds of lampshades, chandeliers made from branches, driftwood, and boards. In general, the process of making a chandelier comes down to making a frame, providing wire connections for sockets and elements for fixing the product to the ceiling.
To make the wires invisible, you can make grooves in the wood. Secure the wiring with special plastic ties or staples. If it is invisible from the outside, then there is no need to make grooves. Sometimes the wires are left completely visible - this is a design decision.
Wood must be used without rot or wormholes. If you find some branch or snag in the forest, then inspect it; perhaps it has begun to rot and collapse. This type of wood is completely unsuitable for a chandelier, unless it can be trimmed.
Some people are interested in how to make a beautiful chandelier from driftwood. One idea is this. The driftwood must first be cleaned, peel off the bark if there is any, cut off all excess, and sand the surface. It is best to use such a figured tree for a lamp stand. If you want to make a chandelier, you can hang a piece of driftwood on chains from the ceiling and run a wire to it, threading it through the links. In this design, hollow cylinders can be cut out of wood for cartridges.
You should not pile up a lot of branches, as this will make the chandelier heavier. In addition, such a product does not always look harmonious. A large volume chandelier is better suited for spacious rooms, while in a regular kitchen small lampshades will look more impressive.
Tips for making your own chandelier
Making a lighting device yourself is quite possible. The work takes place in several stages:
- Preparatory. Preparation of all elements and their treatment with impregnation.
- The main stage includes work related to the assembly of the lighting fixture.
- Final. Fastening the finished product.
To work with wood you will need special tools, natural wood processing products and the material itself. All components are available in a wide range at repair stores.
Important! Treating wood with protective agents is mandatory! Otherwise, the lamp will not last long.
Wooden lamps in a classic style
Classic design includes smooth lines, openwork and voluminous patterns and elements. For such an interior you need a chandelier made entirely of wood. Parts can be carved, and shades can be made of frosted glass. The color scheme of the product should be combined with the furniture, in which case the interior will have a complete and harmonious look.
A wooden chandelier perfectly emphasizes the classic style
Small corner lamp
A simple lamp made of two planks and a lampshade will add variety to the interior of your hallway or bathroom. The lampshade is stylized as a simple jar with a metal lid. This design meets the requirements of loft and minimalism styles and looks great in them.
Photo: homebnc.com
Tips for choosing
Having decided on a wooden chandelier, you need to pay attention to the following nuances of choice:
- A lighting fixture made of wood must fit into the interior. In addition to the wooden lamp, the interior should also contain other wooden elements. The lamp is ideal for retro, country, and African styles. It will be an appropriate decoration in a country house, country house, or chalet.
- The heating elements of the lighting device (sockets, shades, lamps) must be removed from the flammable base and well insulated.
- For fire safety purposes, install the lighting fixture away from wooden ceilings and open flames.
- An experienced joiner and carpenter will help turn your idea into reality. A custom-made lamp will cost more, but will fit perfectly into the interior.
- Wood is an expensive material. But you can purchase a budget option - a surface that imitates wood.
Chandelier with wooden base
A chandelier can be represented by hanging lampshades on wires, which are attached to the ceiling on a large wooden structure, and its role can be played by a solid block of wood. This interior element looks massive and brutal and is well suited to loft and chalet styles.
Photo: kitchendecorpad.com
Application in the interior
Chandeliers come in ceiling and pendant types. Ceiling chandeliers made of wood are inferior to pendant lamps. The trend is associated with the growing popularity of retro style. It is also worth remembering spotlights made of wood. A low ceiling can be hidden using spotlights.
- East style. Chandeliers are made of wood without the use of additional materials. The lamps are distinguished by their regular geometric shapes.
- Country style. American cowboys paid due tribute to the tree. Natural lamps will fit perfectly into the dining room, living room, and bedroom. Country style chandeliers look a little rough. The lamps do not have additional metal parts. Lighting fixtures in country style are voluminous and bulky.
- Retro style. Antique wooden chandeliers are created thanks to rough and sloppy-looking work by fastening raw wood together. Sometimes lamps look like wheels, logs, or driftwood.
- Modern. Thanks to the combination of wood and metal, the lamps fit perfectly into the style.
- Chalet. Natural elements are typical for a dacha, country house, chalet. A wooden chandelier will look appropriate close to nature.
- Classic style. Classics are characterized by smooth lines and volumetric elements. The lighting fixture in a classic style is not made entirely of wood, but using stained glass.
- High tech. Modern high-tech style begins to use wooden elements. Lamps in combination with metal and frosted glass will ideally fit into the picture of a high-tech interior. The severity of the details is emphasized by wooden ceiling chandeliers.
- African style. Lighting fixtures, decorated roughly, using ethnic motifs, will suit the primitive style.
Timeless classic
Massive wooden ceiling chandeliers appeared at the dawn of the 16th century.
Most often, the main ones were tree branches, the edges of which were crowned with candles. Castles of wealthy gentlemen and churches were the main areas of application for unique lighting devices at that time. But if previously wooden chandeliers performed a purely practical lighting function, now more attention is paid to the appearance from the point of view of decorating the room.
The emergence of new practical materials and the development of technology have not weakened interest in natural sources. The tendency to care about the environmental friendliness of surrounding objects and one’s own health is one of the reasons for the growing popularity of wooden chandeliers.
Attention! The variety of forms of wooden lamps allows them to be used not only in traditional rustic styles, but harmoniously introduced into more modern interior trends.
For country and chalets, antique wooden chandeliers are still relevant. Adherents of a brutalist interior can easily assemble a simple chandelier with their own hands, where the frame is a powerful wooden beam.
For lovers of original configurations, the designers have prepared a lot of interesting ideas, many of which can be implemented independently.
Concern about the high cost of a chandelier is justified only when choosing complex configurations that require jewelry processing of the array or where additional expensive materials are present. In most cases, the price is in the budget category.
A variety of wooden chandeliers are shown in the photo:
Peculiarities
The main advantages of wooden lamps are natural material, ease of installation and operation, as well as aesthetic effect. In addition, during the production process such products are coated with special solutions that can prevent deformation of the wood structure and the appearance of harmful insects.
Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of using wood as the main raw material for making lamps.
Pros:
- Environmental Safety. The tree does not contain synthetic impurities that can be hazardous to human health. Minimal modifications occur to the wood during processing;
- When heated, wood releases a number of substances beneficial to the human body. It has a particularly positive effect on patients suffering from chronic respiratory diseases. Therefore, we can safely say that wood has a healing effect, especially when it comes to coniferous species;
- You can create a product of any shape from wood. Any design idea will be realized in the skillful hands of a master;
- Wide range of applications. Wood lamps are suitable for use in almost all types of interiors. They can have a wide variety of shapes (round, square, timber-shaped, etc.) and fit into all styles;
- Aesthetic effect. A lighting fixture made of wood always looks good and elegant. Wood looks harmonious next to objects made from other materials, such as plastic, glass or metal. Built-in design elements will not create a feeling of clutter, but, on the contrary, will advantageously hold together the entire design structure.
Minuses:
- Low level of fire safety. Wood ignites easily and the fire begins to spread quickly. That is why wooden lamps cannot be placed in rooms where open flame sources are located (fireplaces, gas stoves, etc.);
- Favorable environment for insects. Indeed, wood is a very attractive material for termites and other small pests;
- High sensitivity of the material to sudden temperature changes and changes in environmental humidity levels. Therefore, it is highly undesirable to install wooden lamps in the kitchen or bathroom.
The disadvantages of using wooden lamps can be minimized by using special solutions that protect the wood structure from deformation.
To avoid various dangerous situations when using wooden lighting fixtures, you must follow a number of simple rules:
- install the electrical appliance at a safe distance from open flame sources;
- the ideal place in the house to place a wooden lamp is in rooms with optimal levels of humidity and temperature;
- Do not install incandescent lamps in wooden lighting fixtures - they can heat up to a critical temperature for such lamps, which can cause a fire. Fluorescent, halogen, and LED lamps are ideal for such products.
Kinds
All currently existing models of wooden lamps, depending on the type of construction, can be divided into three groups: ceiling, pendant and spotlight. The most popular are hanging models.
This is due to the recent growing demand for retro. Wooden ceiling lights are good for large rooms or halls; they will add an element of pretentious elegance to the interior. On the contrary, spot models are ideal for small rooms with low ceilings.
By style, wooden lamps can be divided into several categories:
- East style. Wood or solid wood without any additional impurities is used as the raw material. When constructing the design for such products, correct geometric shapes and lines are used, as well as motifs characteristic of Eastern cultures (Persian, Japanese);
- "Country". Models of wooden lamps made in this style do not have excessive elegance and rich decor. In comparison with other similar products, they may look too simple and even a little rough. However, if they are correctly integrated into a suitable interior, they will look advantageous and additionally create a feeling of comfort and unity with nature;
May be interesting Tools for mounting a sink into a countertop
- Retro . These can be quite extravagant products, stylized to resemble deep antiquity, or classic models that duplicate the fashion of the past two centuries;
- Modern . Such lamps are created thanks to an advantageous combination of wood and forged elements (grids, volumetric elements or original patterns);
- Chalet . To create wooden lamps in this style, exclusively natural materials are used. Any element in a chalet-style interior is designed to emphasize the unity of man and nature;
- Classic style. Smooth lines and shapes are used here. Such products are mainly made of wood and stained glass. The design can also take the form of a lampshade;
- "High tech". Creative wooden lamps made in this style consist not only of wood, but also metal, frosted glass and other materials that can reproduce the designer’s fantasies;
- African style. Such models are only suitable for creating different ethnic interiors. They look rough inside other styles.
Antique chandeliers
Antique wooden lamps can be divided into groups according to the category of complexity. Some are presented in simple forms and can be made by hand even by novice craftsmen. Others are more complex and require specific woodworking skills and special processing tools.
Studying the wide range of models will give you an idea of the possible options for decorating a room with a wooden chandelier.
Simple geometric shapes connected by chains and decorated with spotlights are quite easy to assemble yourself. The deliberate roughness of a wooden chandelier will look trendy in a village hut or a simple country house.
Another original model of a wooden chandelier, demonstrating the simplicity of a rustic style. The highlight of the lamp is given by light ropes, contrasting in color with the dark wood. The configuration is ideal for DIY assembly. A suitable setting for such a lamp is a country-style interior.
Another example of a chandelier made of wood with a laconic shape, which does not require significant effort to make yourself. A couple of bars, a small piece of chain and 4 LED lamps - and the main part of the kit is already at hand.
Artificially created contrasting veins are part of the designer’s intention. You can assemble a similar model of a wooden chandelier in one weekend. The only thing you should take care of in advance is to find suitable lampshades; classic glass would be inappropriate here.
Working on numerous lampshade strips can take a lot of time and effort, so if you don’t have enough experience, it’s better to purchase a similar wooden lamp ready-made.
A chandelier that harmoniously combines wood, metal and glass invisibly immerses you in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages, where you can meet a knight in armor along dark corridors. This lamp will fit perfectly into the interior of a spacious living room in a country house or a cafe, where the theme of antiquity is interestingly played out.
Candle-shaped lamps most closely match the antique theme. A ceiling chandelier made of wood with numerous hanging elements can dispel the darkness even in a large room. If you have experience working with metal, you can assemble such a wooden model yourself.
Another example of the designer’s original concept, where everyday objects become an accent element of the interior. A hunting lodge or a village tavern is a suitable place for a non-trivial wooden chandelier.
Comment! Such wooden models on chains are best hung in rooms with high ceilings. The standard height of 2.5 m will not be enough.
Unique torches are another easy way to find yourself in a medieval setting. The finishing of the wooden lamp with metal and the lamp in the shape of candles fully corresponds to the idea of antiquity.
The wooden chandelier, where the frame resembles the steering wheel of a ship, looks more sophisticated than previous examples. A similar wooden model will harmoniously fit into an interior with a Mediterranean style. It will be difficult to translate the idea into reality with your own hands due to the presence of small parts and glass shades.
Experienced craftsmen will be able to make such a chandelier from wood. The lamp is ideal for interiors where eco style prevails.
Horns of wild animals as the frame of a wooden chandelier - what could be more interesting. It will be difficult to find such a base, so it is better to satisfy the idea you like with a ready-made lamp.
The section of antique wood chandeliers ends with a photo of a unique combined example of the two previously presented models.
DIY driftwood lamp
Any snag in the forest has its own unique curve, created by nature itself, which you must try not to disturb during processing. First you need to clean the driftwood from bark and damaged wood, then dry it. After this, sand the wooden surface with sandpaper. Then it was time to select components and select lamps. Since wood is a flammable material, you should decide in favor of LED and energy-saving ones, they will not heat up.
After this, you should drill holes for the wires with a long and thin drill. After laying the wires, the holes are filled with putty matched to the color of the wood. Or you can use a narrow-bladed chisel to make grooves for the wires in the wood from the ceiling side. All wooden parts are varnished several times. Cartridges with lamps and shades are attached to the ends of the driftwood.
PROBLESKI
A new and universal idea - wooden modules with LEDs, can be adjusted to any interior. A very architectural and interesting piece, a kind of puzzle made of light and wood. We like!
Brand history: “We have a Red Magic workshop, we produce custom-made wood products - it’s interesting and fun, but not always. I thought about my product for a long time. When choosing a niche, I was guided by my love for complex geometric shapes - I make them in a workshop using modern CNC equipment (note: numerical control).”
“At first we just wanted to make wall panels out of wood for decoration. And then we decided to add LEDs. We started to develop the theme and an idea emerged with modular solutions made from LEDs and wooden panels.”
There are quite a lot of such finds. We will introduce you to them gradually. If you've missed anyone (and most likely you have), correct them and share your findings in the comments! It will be very interesting to read and get to know each other!
Wooden lamps: photos in interiors of different stylistic directions
For any design, you can choose a wooden lighting fixture, but there are some subtleties that should not be missed.
Wooden chandelier in a classic interior
Smooth lines, openwork elements, three-dimensional patterns - all this is typical of the classics. A wooden chandelier with carved details, the shades of which can be made of frosted glass, will look harmonious in such an interior. The color of the product should match the furniture.
Wooden table lamp in high-tech style
High-tech is, above all, simplicity. The lamp shades are made of frosted glass, and the shapes are as simple as possible, without complex designs or ornate patterns.
For a country style interior
For a room in a country, modern or chalet style, the most ordinary wooden lamp is perfect. The basis of these directions is convenience, simplicity and the absence of unnecessary embellishment. A chandelier in such an interior is a kind of symbol of rustic cordiality, without pomp and arrogant chic. The product can be complemented by forged elements or a chain.
Wood Wall Lamps
To make homemade lighting fixtures, it is not at all necessary to use lumber. You can, for example, use a tree cut - a very unusual, but original solution.
We tell you how to make a sconce from wood with your own hands
:
- We select a suitable cut of wood.
- We cut it into two parts.
- In one of the parts we cut out the middle.
- We connect both parts together.
- Drill a hole for the light bulb socket.
- We attach the lamp to the wall and screw the light bulb into the socket.
You can find step-by-step instructions for making a DIY lamp from cut wood here.
Remember the table lamp in the shape of a dog? You can do something similar in the case of a wall lamp. For example, you can make an original decorative lamp in the shape of a man who supports himself.
Pros: fast and practically free. To make such a wall lamp, you can use different cuttings of bars.
You will also need a socket with a light bulb and a piece of electrical cord with a plug. Details in this article.
The author of the YouTube channel My DIY life offers another interesting idea for home decoration - how to make a sconce with your own hands
in the form of a star.
It’s not at all difficult to make such beauty. To do this, you can use scrap boards or buy furniture boards at a hardware store.
Main stages of work:
- We cut out blanks of the required size from a board or furniture panel (alternatively, you can use plywood).
- We glue together a five-pointed star from the blanks.
- We make markings and drill holes for the light bulbs.
- We paint or varnish the wooden star.
- We install the sockets for the light bulbs, and lay the wires compactly on the back side. We screw in the light bulbs.
You can find step-by-step instructions for making an original star-shaped wall lamp here.
How to choose a wooden lamp?
When choosing lighting, you need to take into account the features of the room: 1. Dimensions of the room. A small chandelier will be inappropriate in a large room, and vice versa, a compact room should not be cluttered by a voluminous floor lamp or a large chandelier. 2. Don’t forget about color harmony. The shade of the lamp should be combined with wallpaper, curtains and furniture. 3. Wooden ceiling lamps are suitable for the bedroom, living room, and dining room, while in the bathroom it is better to use waterproof wall fixtures. In large rooms it is possible and even reasonable to combine lighting.
In addition to products from manufacturers, handmade lamps are becoming increasingly popular. An experienced professional will be able to custom-make a lamp of an interesting shape to suit your taste. Products can be made not only from natural wood. Wood-like materials are also often used. It is very easy to care for such lamps - just wipe them periodically with a damp cloth. However, you should not use a soap solution - it forms a film on the surface, which makes it dull.
What you need to make a wooden chandelier with your own hands
First you need to fully think through the design of the future wooden chandelier. It is important that it fits harmoniously into the overall interior of the room. For apartments with high ceilings, massive and complex structures with additional decor are suitable. In small rooms, a large chandelier will visually hide the space and attract too much attention. For low ceilings and small rooms, more laconic models are needed.
The color scheme plays a big role. The wood should match the shade of the main furniture (cabinets, dining table) or one of the walls in the room. To do this, you need a special varnish-paint that will help correct the color of natural wood. In addition, wooden parts must be protected from temperature changes, dust and other unfavorable factors, so it is important to purchase high-quality varnish.
To assemble a wooden chandelier with your own hands, you need at least minimal skills in working with wood. You need to know how to properly cut wood, sand and connect parts together.
What tools may be needed when working on a wooden chandelier:
- drill;
- screwdriver;
- screwdrivers;
- long and short ruler;
- manual or electric jigsaw;
- hacksaw;
- markers and pencils for marking;
- sandpaper or sanding machine.
You also need to purchase wires, lamp sockets, the lamps themselves and special mounts. To decorate a homemade chandelier, you may need metal shades, chains, and glass. Wood does not combine with porcelain and thin plastic.
How to use it correctly?
- Wood is a natural, environmentally friendly material that requires increased attention in terms of safety and proper care. It has good flammability, so it is important that all parts of the device are made with high quality in compliance with all fire safety measures. To do this, the incandescent lamp is placed as far as possible from elements made of wood.
- Mounting to the ceiling must also comply with all standards. It is important that the lamps are as far away from the ceiling as possible, especially if it is made of flammable materials.
- A wooden structure must be treated with insect repellent compounds, as they can render the product unusable. Humidity is also an important indicator, since under its influence the material can swell or shrink.
Colorful oriental style
Retro style
A massive antique lamp can be made from pine timber. The design does not include small elements, so pine would be an excellent choice.
Instructions:
- The timber of the required dimensions is cut.
- The wood is sanded.
- The structure is folded, all dimensions are checked, and the entry points of the upper ones are marked on the lower beams.
- According to the previously made markings, cuts are made in the beams.
- Using sharp tools, the product is shaped.
- The elements are folded like a construction set so that the protrusions fit into the grooves. After this, the beams must be covered with paints and varnishes.
- Next you need to make holes for the light bulbs.
- All that remains is to insert the cartridges and connect the electricity. Additionally, metal frames of light bulbs and rope can be used to decorate the structure.
Oriental design
The slatted design will fit perfectly into oriental styles; it takes a little longer to make, because it consists of small parts, but the result will please you.
Instructions:
- On long wooden blocks, segments 22 cm long are marked.
- The next stage is cutting the material along previously marked sections.
- After this, sand each strip separately. Then on their surface the places for the holes are marked, in which the connecting elements in the form of toothpicks will be located.
- Toothpicks need to be moistened in PVA glue, inserted into the holes, and the next two strips installed, but on other sides.
- In this way, the entire body of the lamp is assembled; an additional strip is attached to the top layer, in which the place for the socket is marked.
- Coating wood with stain.
- After varnishing, you need to insert the cartridge and connect the electricity.
- The hanger can be made from a small piece of wood and a rope, which is attached to the top bar.
- As a result, the slats create an original and beautiful lamp.
How to make a chandelier from wood with your own hands
You can create various models of wooden chandeliers yourself. Suitable materials include branches, boards, thin slats and plywood. Some lighting fixtures will require metal parts to strengthen and decorate them. They can be purchased at construction stores. Below are detailed descriptions of popular chandeliers suitable for different interior styles.
Simple homemade wooden chandelier
This model is suitable for high ceilings and spacious rooms. It can be placed above the kitchen countertop in a studio apartment or above the bar counter in a cafe.
An easy-to-make option - a chandelier made from cutting boards
To work you will need:
- thick and wide pine boards;
- block with a cross section of 7×7 cm;
- 6 sockets and lamps;
- 2.5 m of fabric-braided wire;
- clear varnish for coating;
- hacksaw;
- screwdriver;
- Forstner drill;
- sandpaper;
- plane;
- grinder with a cleaning disc;
- gas-burner.
Detailed instructions:
- Trim the block with a plane so that its surface becomes smooth. Saw with a hacksaw into equal cubes, which need to be sanded with sandpaper, removing all irregularities and burrs. Find the middle on one side and put a mark.
- Using a Forstner drill, the diameter of which must correspond to the size of the cartridge, make holes, focusing on the marks.
- Carefully burn each cube with a gas burner so that the veins of the wood change color.
- Insert cartridges into the holes, having previously connected them to the wire. The length of the cords should vary so that the lamps end up hanging at different heights.
- Now you need to treat the surface of the board. If it is too uneven, then you should go over it with a plane. Using a grinder, process the edges, giving them a smooth, rounded shape.
- Sand small burrs and irregularities with sandpaper. Then take a torch and burn the surface of the board from the front side.
- Apply varnish to all parts and let it dry. Drill holes in the board for each wire.
- All wires with cubes and cartridges must be installed in their places.
Important! The chandelier is attached to the ceiling using a drill, screwdriver and self-tapping screws. All that remains is to connect the wiring and screw in the lamps.
DIY antique wood chandelier
To enhance the effect of old wood, the boards are coated with a darker varnish. The lampshades are painted black, and a decorative layer of gold paint is applied on top, which will imitate cracks and abrasions.
This chandelier model is suitable for small rooms and will complement the country style interior.
What you will need:
- pine board with a thickness of 3 cm;
- 3 lamps and 3 shades;
- wires;
- wood varnish;
- 5 m of chain with middle links;
- hooks for fastening;
- sandpaper;
- electric jigsaw;
- plane;
- roulette;
- hacksaw;
- long ruler;
- gas-burner.
Step-by-step manufacturing process:
- You need to make marks with a ruler and pencil. Along these lines, cut the board into 3 equal parts with a hacksaw.
- Fold the resulting parts into a triangle, as shown in the photo. The sides of the inner hole must be the same.
- Plane the boards and sand them to remove large irregularities. Temporarily connect the parts together with self-tapping screws. Now you will need a round object, which you need to attach to each corner and trace with a pencil so as to get smooth edges.
- Use a jigsaw to saw off the excess along the markings.
- Unscrew the screws and burn each board with a gas torch.
- All parts are fastened together again and varnished in several layers. Leave until completely dry.
- Use a drill to make holes for the wires and install shades with lamps.
All that remains is to screw in 3 hooks from the back side and thread a chain folded in half through them. Now you can hang the product from the ceiling and connect it.
DIY chandelier made from tree branches
Such lamps look good in wooden houses, where the color of the wood is the main part of the interior. Making this chandelier model with your own hands is very simple.
One of the simplest and most original ways to decorate a ceiling is a chandelier made from dry branches.
What you will need:
- a thick branch of an unusual shape;
- sandpaper;
- hand jigsaw;
- wood varnish;
- 4 sockets and 4 lamps;
- wires;
- chain and hooks for fastening.
Use a hand jigsaw to cut off all the thin edges of the branches. Use sandpaper to remove the bark and coat the driftwood with varnish. Screw in the hooks and secure the chain. Wind the wires with the lamps so that the sockets are at approximately the same height. Hang the lamp in place.
Advice! To work, you need fresh driftwood so that the wood is damp; dry branches are not suitable. They may burst when screwing in the fastening hooks.
DIY wooden chandelier wheel
Wheel chandeliers were popular among the British in the 40s. Therefore, we can call this model “retro”.
The wheel-shaped lamp is more complex in design than previous models
What tools and materials are needed:
- 9 pine boards 20 cm wide, 5-7 cm thick;
- 8 slats 3-5 cm thick;
- plywood sheet;
- aluminum sheet;
- chain 2 m, 4 hooks;
- short screws;
- decorative nails;
- Sander;
- sandpaper;
- hammer;
- screwdriver;
- electric jigsaw;
- drill;
- 2 crowns for wood of different diameters;
- metal scissors;
- wood glue;
- wood varnish;
- wires;
- 4 sockets and lamps;
- hacksaw or electric saw.
Algorithm:
- The wheel is assembled from 8 boards. The edge of each of them must be cut at an angle, as shown in the photo.
- All ends are coated with glue and connected to each other to obtain an octagonal figure. When the glue dries, to strengthen the structure, you need to screw in short self-tapping screws at an angle, deeply deepening the caps.
- Now you need to cut the corners and make the wheel round.
- On a sheet of plywood, draw 2 circles slightly smaller than the diameter of the chandelier. You need to place them so that you get a ring, that is, 1 circle will be 2-3 cm larger than the other. The ring is cut out with a jigsaw.
- All parts are sanded by machine.
- The ring is coated with glue and placed on top of the wheel. For reliability, screw in short screws in 3-4 places.
- 2 circles are cut out of the last pine board using a special crown.
- The wheels are ground and 1 of them is placed in the center of the wheel.
- Now you need to measure the distance between the inner edges of the wheel and the circle and cut 8 slats according to the result. Sand each of them and secure it by lubricating the ends with glue and screwing long screws into the sides of the chandelier. Then use short screws to connect the slats to the circle.
- Use a second circle to close the junction of the slats with the middle. Using a smaller diameter bit, cut out 1 more circle and sand it with sandpaper. Turn the wheel with the plywood ring facing down. Make holes in the middle of the small and large circle and plan out the chop. Fix it with glue inside the small circle and insert it into the large one, having previously lubricated the tip with glue.
- Coat the product with varnish on all sides.
- Using scissors, cut a strip of metal equal in length to the diameter of the wheel. Using a hammer and decorative nails, secure the aluminum strip in a circle as shown in the photo.
- Install lamp sockets between the slats and connect the wires.
Screw the hooks to the plywood ring and stretch the chain.
All that remains is to insert the lamps and connect the chandelier to the wiring. To cut corners, you need to draw precise markings in a circle. The figure is placed on a wooden table or on the floor. Drive a nail in the center. A thread and a pencil are tied to it at the distance where the line should go. Having pulled the thread, draw an even circle with a pencil.
DIY chandelier made of wooden beads
A homemade chandelier made of wooden beads is a universal model. To make it harmonize with the interior, it is enough to choose the right color of the material.
The lamp and socket are mounted separately on the ceiling; you need to leave 25-30 cm of the cord so that the base hangs down
What you will need:
- wire basket or flower pot;
- wooden beads 700 pcs. large, 130 pcs. medium in size;
- strong cotton thread;
- decorative cord;
- scissors.
How to assemble such a chandelier:
- Cut 40 cm of thread and string 1 smaller bead, placing it in the middle. Fold the thread in half and string 8 more beads, but larger ones.
- Tie the threads with beads to the frame, starting from the bottom.
- Using a decorative cord, secure the chandelier to the ceiling.
Advice! Before work, the flowerpot or basket should be painted with spray paint in the desired color, because the wire parts will be clearly visible. The decorative cord should be the same color as the frame.
DIY metal and wood chandelier
Another simple chandelier made of wood that is easy to make with your own hands.
Metal elements with cartridges can be purchased at hardware stores. Most often, such parts are used for wall lamps.
The photo below shows a very simple option: a wooden block was hewn and burned with a torch, then varnished. Ready-made lamp holders were screwed onto the sides. 2 hooks were secured on top and a chain was pulled through. For an antique effect, we purchased and screwed in flame-shaped lamps.
To make a chandelier, you just need to use your imagination
Advice! Depending on the shape and texture of the metal, wooden lamps with this decor will suit different styles, for example, “loft”, “high-tech” or “modern”.
DIY chandelier made of wooden slats
What you need for work:
- saw;
- drill;
- sandpaper;
- feather drill for glass 6 mm;
- wood glue;
- 8 pcs. slats 20*40 mm;
- 4 bolts with a diameter of 6 mm and a length of 10 cm;
- 4 cap nuts and 4 regular ones;
- window glass 48×48 cm;
- transparent self-adhesive wallpaper with a pattern;
- two cartridges with fastenings;
- wires;
- connection terminals;
- 4 corners 3x3 cm.
Step-by-step instruction:
- All slats need to be cut so that they are the same length. Use sandpaper to sand and round the edges.
- Using glue, assemble 2 identical frames, as shown in the photo. Each edge protrudes 10 cm.
- Place the frames on top of each other and drill holes for the bolts.
- Then varnish each frame.
- When the coating dries, assemble the structure. Secure the bolts with nuts on the reverse side.
- On both sides, retreat 5 cm from each edge and screw the corners. They are needed to attach the chandelier to the ceiling.
- Using a glass cutter, cut a square of window glass 48x48 cm.
- Place the glass on top of the wooden frame on the side where the bolts are. Mark the locations for the holes with a marker and drill them with a special feather drill. Then stick a decorative film on the front side of the glass, then place it on the protruding bolts and secure with cap nuts.
- To make sure, screw 2 lamps with sockets in the corners and connect the wires.
- To hang a chandelier from the ceiling, you need to remove the glass. When the screws are screwed in, return the glass.
Advice! In order for the film to stick evenly, it should be applied gradually. A plastic card can be used to expel air bubbles and smooth out small wrinkles.
DIY loft chandelier made of wood
It is not difficult to assemble such a model. You will need to cut a 15×15 wooden beam into 4 equal parts. Use a chisel to remove some of the wood from the bottom edges. Lightly sand the resulting potholes and burn them with a torch. Cover the bars with varnish.
The loft style is rough and masculine, so a wooden chandelier must meet these standards
Make 2 holes on the side at equal distances and connect the wooden blocks with scraps of metal pipe. On top, obliquely screw a piece of varnished plywood with a hole in the middle, through which a lamp socket and a thick fabric-braided wire will be threaded.
DIY wooden LED chandelier
First, the wooden boards are cut, sanded well and varnished. At the bottom, using a chisel and hammer or on a machine, make a 2-3 cm indentation. A through hole is drilled across the board from the edge and the soldered wires are brought up. Tape is glued into the recess and covered with frosted glass, which diffuses light well.
To assemble a similar chandelier from wood, you need soldering skills; long wires and a special block are soldered to the LED strips, which will regulate the electrical voltage
You can watch how to make another model of LED chandelier from wood with your own hands in this video:
For country interior
If the room is made in country, chalet or modern style, the simplest wooden chandelier will do, since simplicity is the basis of such styles. The main aspect is convenience and the absence of multiple decorations. The chandelier in this interior should be a symbol of rustic hospitality, without pomp and pomp. Chain or forged elements may be used. Often the lamp is made in the shape of a wheel.
Original lamp in the shape of a boot made of dark wood
Advice! For the interiors of pubs or cafes, a rough lamp made of rough boards or logs is suitable. Such interiors are often stylized as antique.
Antique plank chandeliers
An interesting chandelier with an antique effect can be made from edged boards 150 x 25 mm or slightly thicker. To do this you need:
- cut two 1 m boards, one 70 cm and two 40 cm (to connect the main ones);
- use a jigsaw to cut curly cuts of any shape at the edges of three long boards;
- burn the wood with a gas burner (only from the ends and the front side);
- peel off the carbon deposits with a metal sanding brush placed on an angle grinder to create a pattern of dark antique lines;
- twist the structure with self-tapping screws, placing two short planks parallel to each other;
- coat with varnish in 2-3 layers;
- make holes for the wire;
- screw the lampshades;
- screw the hooks for hanging the chandelier.
You can use plaster pots or plastic products as lampshades for a homemade device. Tin, cut-off bottles, and glass jars of non-standard shape are also used. The chandelier does not have to be mounted close to the ceiling; you can hang it on chains from a beam. Use rope and hemp as decorative decorations.
Note! If the board is thick, then its edges are cut with a hacksaw. The rougher the cut, the more impressive it looks.
There are a large number of options for the arrangement of boards, as well as the selection of their sizes. You can connect two planks with one bar or make a structure similar to a lattice.