Dragonfly Nightlight Lamp (UPDATED)

[FrankEV]

I found this free Dragonfly Pattern on-line and realized it would make a good box type Nightlight Lamp.  I used solid 1/4” thick Red Oak for the body and connectors, and 1/2” thick (planed down from ¾” thick material) for the Top and Base.  The four body sides are 5 1/2” wide x 11 1/2” tall and were stack cut with Pegas #1 MGT R Blades.  All chamfering and mitering was done on the table saw.  The Top sits loose on the top of the body to allow access for bulb changing.

The natural Red Oak color was darkened with one quick wipe on wipe off coat of Minwax Red Oak stain.  All stained surfaces were finished with multiple coats of Clear Gloss Lacquer prior to installation of the Amber Cast 1/8” thick Translucent Acrylic panels.  The panels are held in place with small dabs of Gel Superglue.

I originally intended to use a 25W LED bulb but found that it was too bright. I replaced it with 10W clear nightlight lamp bulb.   However, I plan to add some translucent velum sheets, attached with spray adhesive, to the inside face of the Amber panels and see if the lamp has a nicer soft glow with the 25W bulb.

I was very unhappy with the much too transparent plexi with either the 10W or 25W bulb.  Applied Translucent Velum using spray adheasive to the inside on each side.  Now with the 25W LED Candlelabra bulb the glow is much softer amd you can't see inside.  Next time I make a lamp like this I have to remember to apply the velum to the plexi before inserting them . 

  

 

 

Comments and critiques always welcome.

Edited October 29, 2022 by FrankEV
Updated with new text and picture

[munzieb]

Frank, that project came out great. I have done several similar lamps and adding the velum or parchment paper makes a big difference in softening the look and accentuating the actual scroll work. Tacking the outside edges of the velum to the plex-glass with brush on contact cement has worked well for me in the past.

[Dak0ta52]

Very nice piece, Frank. Great job.

[Badgerboy]

most excellent 

[GusGustin]

Frank !!! That came out great !!! 

I have a question about the light. Is that a socketed light ??? And is there a small LED light that will fit in that socket. 

Why I'm asking - is - my wife just made one of those glass balls and wants me to make a lighted stand for it. I'm looking for a socketed light that I can use in this stand.

Thanks in advance for the help .. I'm completely stupid about lights and such .. 

Gus

[barb.j.enders]

That is a stunning piece of work.  

I have used hand made paper for a couple of lamps that I have made.  It provides a nice soft glow.

Can you provide the link for the pattern.  I am very partial to dragonflies and would love to cut that pattern.

Barb

[Scrappile]

That is a beautiful lamp, Frank!

[FrankEV]

54 minutes ago, GusGustin said:

...I have a question about the light. Is that a socketed light ??? And is there a small LED light that will fit in that socket...

 

 

Gus,

At Home depot I found; Candlelabra socket base (comes two in a pack), 8 ft lamp cord with inline switch (separate items),  three inch nipple (two pack), and a  package of nuts.  Any light bulb with the small candlelabra screw base will fit.  Ten watt night lite, clear xmas bulb  or any of the fancy Candlelabra bulbs (LED or incandescent) will work. The smallest 110 Volt LED I couold find in HD is 25W Candlelabra bulb that is abou 2 1/2" tall.    Small Xmas light type Socket and Bulb may be available on-line.

[FrankEV]

1 hour ago, barb.j.enders said:

...Can you provide the link for the pattern...

Posted in "New Pattern Announcements".

[meflick]

Beautiful lamp Frank. Thanks for sharing your pattern. I will download it and add to my “some day when I get to it pile.”

[FrankEV]

If you are jumping in here please go back to top and see the Updated original post.  I think you will like the lamp a lot better now.

[daveww1]

that is a beautiful night light

[GusGustin]

On 10/28/2022 at 5:25 PM, FrankEV said:

 

Gus,

At Home depot I found; Candlelabra socket base (comes two in a pack), 8 ft lamp cord with inline switch (separate items),  three inch nipple (two pack), and a  package of nuts.  Any light bulb with the small candlelabra screw base will fit.  Ten watt night lite, clear xmas bulb  or any of the fancy Candlelabra bulbs (LED or incandescent) will work. The smallest 110 Volt LED I couold find in HD is 25W Candlelabra bulb that is abou 2 1/2" tall.    Small Xmas light type Socket and Bulb may be available on-line.

FRANK .. THANK YOU SO MUCH !!!! This is the info I needed .. I am so grateful .. 

[Farmerdon]

Beautiful work.

[heppnerguy]

I am enjoying seeing so many lighted item this year. I will have to search out someone in the  family that might like one as  we have no room or need for another lamp. Yours looks great.  I think  I will grab a copy and go on my search among the family and see what comes up

Dick

heppnerguy

[Old Joe]

Sweet! Nice job, and your stick-to-it determination is impressive.