Sponsored by American School of Doha
For Kids
Parents: This project is appropriate for ages nine and up but parental supervision for the glue gun and spray paint is recommended
The Lampborghini
by Alleine Nadal Khalifa, American School of Doha
There is a saying: One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. Whether it’s old toys or discarded housewares, I’ve found there’s always a way to take something old and make it new.
The lamp was another unwanted piece from a friend. She didn’t want to throw it away but didn’t think anyone would want to buy it. After a week of these items lying around in my art room, I found myself inspired to create something unique for my girls’ bedroom—the “Lampborghini”.
For this project, I found a collection of matchbox cars at a local flea market. The previous owner’s mother was sad to see these well-loved toys go but delighted when I told her I planned to upcycle them.
Materials
- Damp cloth
- Table lamp
- Matchbox cars
- Masking tape
- Hot glue gun
- Glue sticks
- Spray paint or metal paint in two colours, one for the base and one for the lamp shade
- Facemask for protection from the paint
- Newspaper or plastic bags to protect your work surface
Directions
- Dust off the lamp and matchbox cars using a damp cloth
- Remove the lampshade from the base
- Use the masking tape to cover the lamp cord so it won’t get covered in paint
- With adult supervision, hot glue the matchbox cars to the lamp shade. You can glue them vertically or horizontally
- Make sure your working space is fully protected with newspaper or plastic bags, and spray paint the lampshade and cars with your first colour
- Spray paint the lamp base with the second colour
- Let both parts dry overnight. You can spray on a second coat if needed, but make sure to let it dry again
- Reattach the lampshade to the base and remove the masking tape. Enjoy your fancy new light!
Get Creative: What other well-loved toys could you repurpose into a fun lamp?
