What parts do I need to make this lamp?

ChrisM6484

Hello everyone. Thanks for reading this and offering suggestions.

I found this lamp awhile ago online. It sells for an outrageous $150. I want to try to make it myself.



But I don't know what parts I would need to do so. I've never tried much electrical work, but I think I'm handy enough that if I had the parts I need then I could figure out how to make it.

So I'm soliciting help from y'all. What type of toggle switch is that? Where can I get one? Is that most likely a normal light bulb socket? What kind of wiring is going on inside of this (most likely)?

Any help is much appreciated. Thanks again for reading.

TarheelTerp

A porcelain base for the light bulb, toggle switch and a cord set
Everything is available at any decent hardware store.

ChrisM6484

Thanks for your answer.

Would I need a DPST or SPST toggle switch for something like this?

LooseSCruz

Spst.

joecaption

Why even bother with that ugly switch sticking out?
Just install a switch on the lamp cord.

andrew79

Does anyone else think there may be an issue with creating a fixture out of paper?

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joecaption

Sure not going to meet any UL rating on this planet.
Bare bulb, using a lamp holder that has exposed wiring on the back side close to a flamable material. And just plan ugly to look at.

M Engineer

This one is only $3200.

garethcooper9

This is a great idea. I would to have one. Could you share you thoughts and maybe a piece of advice when you've done yours. Thanks

jbfan

It must be the lamps that have the appeal.

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ionized

I would worry about the flammable material as well. A UL listing, however, is only necessary if the OP wants to sell it.

ChrisM6484

Thanks to everyone who's replied so far. This has been a good learning experience for me.

I went to a hardware store today and found all the pieces I need to make this work:
- E26 porcelain socket
- SPST toggle switch (15 amp)
- lamp wiring cord w/ plug

I'll probably go get a book and start carving that up tomorrow.

Would it not be safe enough if I just made sure all exposed wires are wrapped well in electrical tape?

ionized

No, I would not want that in my home or workplace. Sparks from the connections on the back side of the socket could easily ignite the paper. Connections are the weak and most dangerous place for line power.

I think what you need to do is enclose the back side of the socket in a small box like a junction box. Enclose most of the socket. Gut enough of the paper from the book to make room for the box. Install the cord through the side of the box with a strain relief so there is nothing left open.

Better yet, install a lamp socket like on the suspended bulbs in the pic posted by M engineer. That way, all the connections are in the open, but under the metal. You will have only cord running through the book and you won't have to gut so much of the book.

andrew79

can i use that as my new quote in my sig?

__________________
Sarcasm is my friend
I'm here to learn too, i do mostly commercial/industrial/new construction and this place is a great way to pick up tips on residential from some good electrical minds. Excuse the spelling, my phone has a mind of it's own.

ChrisM6484

@andrew79
Absolutely. My only request is attribution and a small fee of $1 each time you use that sig.