A DIY Christmas Lamp Post Is The Old-School Decoration You Need For Your Entryway

Christmas lamp posts are one of those classic decor pieces that have stood the test of time. Their warm glow reminds us of classic, cozy Christmases full of snow, evergreens, and caroling. Once used to light streets in centuries past, you can now use that old-world charm to decorate your home's entryway with this simple DIY. This project is fully adaptable to the size needs of your entryway, and battery or solar-powered lights eliminate the need for electrical wiring. While red ribbons and evergreens are the best way to achieve an old-school vibe, the decor options are limitless.

This project is beginner-friendly and only requires a few supplies that you can get at your local hardware store. You'll need a sturdy PVC pipe or wooden post, a pot or crate, and a solar-powered or battery-operated lantern, like a BOMIER Hanging Solar Outdoor Waterproof Lantern. Alternatively, you can construct your own lantern shape with cardboard and paper or plastic windows, but this may be less durable. You'll also need cement or sand, hot glue, spray paint, and decorations of your choice, such as tinsel or ribbon. A saw may also be necessary to cut your PVC pipe or wood post to the desired lantern height.

Once you've collected your materials, it's time to assemble the base. First, glue down your wooden post or PVC pipe upright into your pot or crate. This will be the base of your lamp post. Then, fill the pot with cement, keeping the post straight while it dries. You can also use sand to secure the post, but it might not be as sturdy. Once your post is secured to the base, attach the lantern to the top of the post with hot glue or screws, being mindful of any wiring. When everything is dry and secure, tape over the lantern windows and spray paint the entire structure. Go with black paint for an old-school style lamp post, simulate a peppermint stick with red and white, or experiment with modern colors like blue and silver. Putting your can of spray paint in hot water before painting will help emulsify the paint for a professional-looking finish.

Now for the fun part: decorating. For an old-school look, you can't go wrong with a spiral garland and a wreath with a classic red bow. However, this step is also an opportunity to get creative and decorate for the holiday aesthetic you love. You can add small ornaments and decor like berries, pinecones, bells, and even fake snow. Ribbon is also a versatile decor piece that can be dramatic or minimalist. Use greenery or tinsel to hide the cement in your lamp base. Finally, you can let one lamp shine alone or repeat this process to line your entryway with multiple festive lamps.