She Wanted a Cordless Table Lamp — A Simple Wine Glass Was the Perfect Base

As many of my close friends, colleagues at Apartment Therapy, or literally anyone who’s just met me for the first time will tell you (I can’t help it!), I’m hunting for all things crafty-chic and affordable for my cozy wedding in October. It’s why I’m hooked on feeds where gorgeous, yet budget-friendly, finds are being celebrated; like these faux china plates, for example. So when I came across a unique, fun take on the cordless table lamp trend for a stunning tabletop moment, I knew I had found something perfect for my reception tablescapes.

Cordless table lamps are having a major moment. You might’ve been one of the lucky folks who snagged a viral rattan rechargeable lamp earlier this year, or maybe you’ve snapped up cheaper finds like those from the Better Homes & Gardens line. However, if you have yet to buy one you already absolutely love, it seems you can actually just create your own with a few dining table essentials you definitely already own.

Content creator Carolyn Covington (@carolyncoving) recently posted a video tutorial on how to create DIY table lamps using just three items: a lampshade, a flameless candle, and a wine glass of your choice. It took her less than two minutes to make and required zero tools, which is a dream for any busy hostess.

The lamps are so unique thanks to the clear, thin base that helps boost the glimmer of any LED light inside. Plus, she can easily swap out chosen lampshades depending on the tablescape and the palette of her occasion. Unsurprisingly over 30,000 people liked this video, and many had lots to say about this easy DIY. “Women in STEM (literally),” one commenter joked. Another added, “This is so genius!!!” 

It’s almost unbelievable when looking at the final product, but Carolyn’s DIY only requires three items — one of which you likely already own. For starters, you’ll need to grab a wine glass that you love (if not, thrift-store bar essentials are unique). Next, shop for or upcycle a small lampshade. When planning my own take on this DIY for my upcoming nuptials, I found a set of two floral-patterned shades on Amazon. They’re under $34 and have such whimsical character, with a soft blue color palette and scalloped edges.

For the light source, snag a set of flameless flickering votive candles from Amazon. Use a few in the lamps, then set the rest around the place settings. Twelve votives for less than $7 is such a steal. Plus, the listing says these candles last longer than 200 hours. Make a statement at your next dinner party by copying Carolyn’s inexpensive, unique cordless lamp project — it’ll be a total hit!