How can I update this table lamp?

Deborah Bauman
by Deborah Bauman

I have not been able to sell this lamp and it does not work in my more modern home. I believe it has possibilities if iI can paint it or something...and get a new lamp shape - but what kind? I appreciate any suggestions.

Thank you!

  7 answers
  • BOB.D. BOB.D. on Oct 24, 2018

    I would paint it a bright color .Mabey a modern shade .

  • Oliva Oliva on Oct 24, 2018

    Paint it white and put a teal drum shaped shade, or a shade that softly flares at the bottom. The height and width of shade can be calculated by typing this into a Google search. There are a number of lampshade companies that have specific instructions for measuring your lamp to determine shade size. There are sites that give pictures of lamp base shapes and the best style shade for it. Your lamp base is somewhat "urn" shaped.

    With a white base, you can put any color shade that compliments your decor.

  • Deborah Bauman Deborah Bauman on Oct 24, 2018

    Thank you Oliva. In regards to calculating numbers into a google search - what measurements would I type in? the measurements of the lamp itself - and then get the recommendations for that size lamp?


    • Oliva Oliva on Oct 25, 2018

      Hi, Deborah,

      Once you've calculated the size shade you want, type "lampshades" into a Google search. You'll most likely then be asked if you want fabric lined or plastic interior, and the shade style can be selected from the companies' offerings. Some have significantly more choices.

      I prefer fabric lined shades, for the look. Whatever shade you select, make sure your bulb is 2" away from the shade, at any point, to prevent overheating of the shade, which can leave a scortch mark, melt the plastic, or ignite the shade

      (Worst case scenario...).

      A gold interior will cause your lamp to diffuse less light.

  • Jeanette Jeanette on Oct 24, 2018

    Hope someone answers your question, Deborah.

  • Starr Durrant Starr Durrant on Oct 29, 2018

    Are you set on using it as a lamp? If you are open to other possibilities it would make a great base for a DIY bird bath - just remove the bulb hardware and glue a lovely platter on top.

  • Nicole Frances Nicole Frances on Oct 30, 2018

    So many possibilities! Have you chosen one yet? I think personally I would maybe paint it a white or off white, maybe some metallic paints and get a new and contemporary shade to compliment it. Try the reuse store...a lot of times they have lamps that you can use the parts for or an extra shade.

  • Agnes Chrzanowska Agnes Chrzanowska on Aug 31, 2021

    it all depends what is your decor like .. there are soo many ways