When we were brainstorming for ideas to include in the DIY chapter in our new Gardenista book, the flowerpot pendant light made the final cut because it was practical—and made us smile every time we looked at it.
Inspired by a design by Australian eco-gardener Joost Bakker (who is famous for using terra cotta in unusual ways), our flowerpot pendant lamp has its own personality, including a yellow cord (because: sunshine) and a globe incandescent lightbulb to cast a soft, flattering light.
See materials and step-by-step instructions below:
Photography by Matthew Williams for Gardenista.
Materials
- Painter’s canvas drop cloth
- 1 can Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2x Sun Yellow spray paint, high-gloss finish ($3.98 at Home Depot)
- 1 cord set (consider the weatherproof Fantado Single Socket Pendant Light Commercial Grade Outdoor Cord Kit, which is $11.18 at Amazon, if you plan to use the fixture in an exposed outdoor area)
- Wire cutters
- 4-inch Terra Cotta Pot ($.98 at Lowe’s)
- Wire stripper
- 15-Amp Quick Wire Plug (a two-pack is $6.98 at Home Depot)
- Clear globe 40-watt incandescent lightbulb
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Ceiling hook (optional)
Step 1: Snip
Step 2: Strip
Step 3: Paint
Step 4: Assemble
Follow the installation instructions included with your plug to attach the wires to the plug.
Step 5: Screw In
Suspend the pendant light from a hook in your porch ceiling or covered overhang.
N.B.: More of Alexa’s favorite DIYs to try:
- DIY: Bug Repellent Balm.
- Steal This Look: Floral Arrangement in Cocktail Glasses.
- DIY: Moroccan Preserved Lemons.
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