by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: March 19, 2009   Last Updated: March 09, 2012

Looking to bring a little of outdoors right into the house? A twig lamp is an easy and affordable way to create some interesting and reflective of nature. If a contemporary twist is what you are looking for, spray painting the twigs a crisp white will do the trick. It is amazing how just changing out a lamp can make a difference in the feel of a room.

This can be done with tree or willow twigs. Bright red willow twigs will keep color, so if you live near a river and see vibrant color that can be used for this project. Use whatever nature gives you.

You will need:

*15 to 20 dried twigs (Twigs should be collected about a month prior to making the project. Bundle them tightly with twine to help them stay straight)

*Three large rubber bands

*Craft glue

*Scissors

*Utility knife or pruner

*Threaded metal rod

*Electrical lamp kit

*Wooden base with a pre-cut hole in the center for base

*Felt Pads

*Twine

*Thread

*Sewing needle

*White paint for contemporary option

*Lamp shade

Directions:

1. Paint twigs and allow them to dry for the contemporary option

2. Hold the twigs around the rod with rubber bands.

3. Wrap and glue the twine around the twigs. Allow to dry. Twine can be tied in small bows or for a more rustic look square knots are a good option.

4. Take the utility knife or pruner and cut the twigs to the proper height. The lamp has more character if some of the twigs branch out.

5. Glue the twigs to the wood base with the craft glue.

6. Cut the left overs of the twigs into small one and two inch pieces. Reserve some to embellish the lampshade. Glue the others at the base of the of the twigs.

7. Install the lamp kit. Run the cord through the rod. Put the felt pads on the bottom of the round so there is room for the cord to slip out underneath the rod.

8. Have a little fun with the lamp shade. Tack pieces of wood to the edge of the lamp shade with a dab of glue. Use thread and needle to hold the twigs in place as the glue may eventually melt. Get some leaves and stencil some leaf pattens on the shade and all of the sudden it's not just a lamp, the tree is right in the family room.

You will be surprised how much such a simple project can help change the overall feel of a room. It is always a good idea to make an extra lampshade. A quick change of shades can give you time to clean and spruce up one, while a new look dawns the lamp. Don't be afraid to step out of the box and get a little creative. Worst case scenario, it becomes the lamp shade in the garage.

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