I love antiques, and I'm always on the lookout for something vintage that will work in my home. But I have a problem with ancient electrical appliances, the kind with well-worn fabric-covered cords that whisper "fire hazard" in my ear. That's why I'm looking for a real pedal-powered sewing machine, but that's an entirely different story. Antique lamps are lovely, but useless if you are afraid to plug them in. It's the same for a great-looking lamp you find at a bargain because it doesn't work. But now you can make it work, and have a wireless vintage lamp!
All you need are battery-operated light bulbs. No, not a flashlight, but real bulbs that screw into a socket, but don't need any electrical connection. There are many of them available. They have screw ends to fit into the lamp sockets, and come apart so that you can charge the LED light with a USB connection. Stick one of these into your vintage lamp and you don't even need a cord anymore, which is great if you have an old house with an insufficient number of electrical plugs. Plus, you'll have a brighter light than the original owner ever saw. Just be sure that the bulb you buy isn't too big for the lamp and shade you found at the thrift store. Read more about this wonderful workaround at Apartment Therapy. And now I can think of at least two lamps I regret getting rid of.
(Image credit: Thomas Quine)
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