Let’s Modernize an Oil Lamp!

If you loved my post on how quick and simple it was to convert a brass lamp into a brass candlestick, you are really going to love this project! If you missed the lamp to candlestick post, click on the pic below.

Just like the candlestick transformation, this oil lamp one will help you add more cozy vibes to your home.

Table Of Content

Step 1 – Find an oil lamp
Step 2 – Disassemble
Step 3 – Empty oil
Step 4 – Clean oil reservoir & finial
Step 5 – Attach converter kit
If your conversion kit does not fit
Supplies Used
Instructions
Enjoy your creation!
Finished Conversion
Thoughts on the project
Oil Lamp: Before, during, after
For your convenience
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Step 1 – Find an oil lamp

For this project, I used an oil lamp that I’ve had for many years. When we lived out in the country and lost power, I would use it to light one of our rooms. Now that we have so many battery- powered options, I haven’t used it as a light for years.

*If you don’t already have an oil lamp, head to the thrift store or antique store. You can also find them online; I’ll add a link below.

Step 2 – Disassemble

Remove finial and unscrew wick assembly. Set aside.

Step 3 – Empty oil

Empty any oil from the lamp into a glass container with a lid. Screw lid on tightly and label jar so others know this is lamp oil. Dispose of oil properly.

Step 4 – Clean oil reservoir & finial

My lamp was dusty! I used a soft cloth and glass cleaner to clean the finial.

After emptying the oil, I filled the oil reservoir with hot, soapy water and allowed it to sit. I then used a brush to scrub the inside. There was still an odor of oil, so I repeated this step several times until the smell was gone.

Once the smell was gone, I allowed the piece to air dry.

Step 5 – Attach converter kit

Now that the finial and oil reservoir were clean, it was time to complete this project by attaching the converter kit.

The converter kit looks like the wick assembly but instead of having a wick, it has a place for a light bulb. The kit comes with a cord and on/off switch.

After the kit is attached, all you need to do is insert a light bulb, install the finial, and plug it in!

If your conversion kit does not fit

There are three sizes of oil lamps collars. The two most common are #1 and #2. Number 1 has an opening of 7/8″ and Number 2 has an opening of 1 3/16″. My lamp was the larger and needed a #2 converter kit. Even though the lamps are ‘standard’ sizes, I suppose there are variances because the new collar wouldn’t screw onto the oil reservoir.

I didn’t know if it was how my lamp had been made or if the new collar wasn’t quite the right size. I considered returning the kit and ordering another one in case it was the way the new collar had been made. THEN, I had a flash of inspiration! Why couldn’t I use the old collar? So, I unscrewed the new one and replaced it with the old one. Problem solved!!!

Supplies Used

Oil lamp
Dish soap
Glass cleaner
Soft cloth
Converter kit
Silicone bulb

Instructions

Remove finial
Unscrew wick assembly
Empty oil into a glass container with a lid
- Label jar and dispose of oil properly
Wash oil reservoir with hot soapy water
Allow to air dry
- This may take several times to remove the oil smell
Clean glass using glass cleaner and soft cloth
Attach converter kit
- If new collar doesn’t fit, use old one
Insert bulb
Attach finial
Plug in and Enjoy!

Enjoy your creation!

I sat the new ‘oil’ lamp in the family room next to the red ‘leather’ chair. The light it gives off is soft and cozy; the perfect accent to this little reading corner! Along with the brass candlestick, it gives the family room a nice, cozy vibe!

Finished Conversion

Thoughts on the project

This project was SO easy! Converting the oil lamp to an electrical took an item that I had only been using as a decorator piece and changed it into one that I can actually use again! I hope you give this project a try! If you think you will, let me know in the Comment section below. 🙂

Oil Lamp: Before, during, after

For your convenience

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Want more project ideas?

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