You know what they say, sometimes when you want something done right, you have to do it yourself. In the DIY world, it’s more likely that if you want something to look a specific way, you need to make it yourself.
That’s precisely what Nick Colsey did when he was on the hunt for a modern solar lamp for his deck.
He wanted something he could leave outside that would light up automatically when the sun went down. But he couldn’t find anything within his price range that fit the bill.
“There are lots of solar lamps on Amazon, but none have the look I want,” he says.
So, naturally, Nick decided it was time for an IKEA hack, picking an old favorite lamp.
IKEA GRÖNÖ is a classic from the past that is back in production, looks great, but it’s not solar.”
With a bit of tinkering, the result is a sleek, modern solar lamp that adds a warm, cozy glow to his outdoor space.
What You’ll Need
- IKEA GRÖNÖ table lamp
- Solar sconce
- Iroko or teak wood (for lid)
- Wine cork or similar
- Table saw
- Router
- Pencil
- Sandpaper
- Teak oil (or stain, etc.)
Converting the GRÖNÖ Table Lamp Into a Solar Light Fixture
1. Take Apart the Solar Sconce
Nick purchased a pair of Edisonfire solar sconces from Amazon to use the solar components in his converted GRÖNÖ lamps. Remove the solar panels and LEDs from the sconces; put the fixtures aside for another project. (Likewise, do the same with the E13 fixture and cord that comes with the GRÖNÖ.)
2. Cut the Lid
Use the wood to make a lid for the sconce. Nick used ⅝”-thick Iroko wood since it is similar to teak but less expensive. Cut the wood to 5 inches square.
Trace the top edge of the glass onto the bottom of the wood and carve out a 3/16” channel with your router. The slot allows the lid to rest inside the glass.
Nick used a ¼” bit for this part and recommends being comfortable using a router before you attempt this part of the project. He also used a fence attachment for straight cuts. The lid should fit snugly, but if you prefer, you can caulk it to the glass after completing the assembly.
3. Sand and Seal the Lid
Sand the lid and seal it with teak oil. Alternatively, you can stain it or whatever works with your decor.
4. Fit the Solar Parts Into Place
Make a cutout in the center of the lid to hold the solar components. Nick says, “Make this a push fit in case you have to replace the solar module.”
Plug the hole in the base of the lamp with a wine cork. Fit the solar module into the lid, power it on, then place the lid onto the glass. Nick says the lamp lasts for about 8 hours after sunset.
How Much Did This DIY Solar Light Cost?
One GRÖNÖ lamp is $10, and the sconces were $25 for a pair. Not bad. But where it gets pricey is the wood; if you choose to go with Iroko or teak, they can get up there in price.
Since you don’t need a huge piece, check out scrap sections in your local home improvement store or lumber yard. If you can’t find something, opt for severe weather, pressure-treated wood that is good for outdoor use, stain it, and seal it with an outdoor wood protectant.
Check out these other GRÖNÖ lamp hacks and this alternative solar lamp project if you’re looking for a different style. What do you think? Is this hack going to make it onto your to-do list?
Drop us a line if you recreate this in your space or take it even further. We’d love to see how you hack your own IKEA solar light. Share it with us!
NEXT: You may also like these Outdoor Lighting Hacks.
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