Materials: HEMMA table lamp base, OLLSTA lampshade, 4 old books, white glue
Description: The HEMMA table lamp is a bit plain so we decided to use some old books we picked up to make it more interesting (we used discarded and boring hardcover books â€" we would never destroy a book worth reading). HEMMA is particularly good for this hack since the cord runs through the rod and base, so there'€™s no need to cut a separate route for it through the books, and the base provides a sturdy foundation for the books to rest on.
1. Disassemble the socket and cord from the lamp rod.
2. Cut a hole through the centers of the books. You could use a drill for this; we didn't have one handy so we used a screwdriver to make the initial hole and a two-sided apple corer to expand it the right size. Don't make the hole too big! This is less important for the bottom books but it’s crucial for the top book.
3. Mix a solution of white glue and water (about 80% glue 20% water) and use a brush to generously apply the glue to the book'€™s pages - first glue the inside of the covers, and then hold the pages together tightly and glue the sides of the book and the inside of the hole.
4. Allow books to dry for several hours, preferably with some weight on top of them. There'€™s no need to glue the books to each other - their weight is enough, and it also allows you to play around with their positioning.
5. Place the rod through the books and attach it to the base. Reattach the cord and socket, add the lampshade.
~ Shay and Yaara, Israel
