How To Turn An IKEA Vase Into An Adorable Bee Hive Lamp

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Although we don't often see the shape in the wild, the rounded, bumpy-rimmed form of a classic beehive is instantly recognizable, and the design of IKEA's KÄLLERHALS vase appears to be a nod to these natural wonders. This yellow glass vase is just the right size to DIY an adorable lamp. Invert it over a table lamp base, and it adds instant sweetness to any room.

Inspired by Instagrammer @_artslee, this is one of the best IKEA hacks we've found for its easy assembly and decent price with crave-worthy results. They pair the KÄLLERHALS vase with an IKEA lamp base for a tool-less lighting project. Although the base used in our inspirational video isn't currently available, a good stand-in is the inexpensive YXTH Industrial Table Lamp Base. This product has a 4 ⅘-inch diameter base. The vase's mouth is 3 ¼ inches, so the electrical component provides a sturdy platform for the vase when it's placed over the bulb. Along with an LED bulb, you need nothing else besides a plug to get this lamp glowing.

Give the vase a quick wipe-down to eliminate any dust or smudges first. After fitting the lamp base with the lightbulb of your choice, simply flip the vase upside down and slide it over the bulb. Plug it in, and bask in the glow. Easy, right? Well, we can go one better, both in form and function.

Imagine how cute a bejeweled or enamel bee accessory would look attached to the vase's exterior. Order up a 20-pack of Pistha Enamel Bee Charms to spangle over the surface. Or opt for one outstanding bold bee like this Psyqtsuary Bee Brooch Pin. Stick these guys in place with a strong craft glue like E6000, a glue you should keep in your home for reliable bonds between two different materials.

You may have qualms about simply setting a vase atop a light base with nothing but gravity to hold it in place. Granted, this lamp being made from a glass vase automatically makes it fragile, so you can use a bit of poster putty or non-drying modeling clay for a temporary hold between the vase's rim and the lamp base. This light hold can prevent the glass from slipping off the base in case of an occasional nudge. Roll out a snake of putty or clay (a clay in a color that matches the base or the glass is ideal). Gently mold it around the mouth of the vase, and press the inverted vase on the lamp base.