Upcycled Tiki Torch Craft

Alison AuthUpdated: Apr. 24, 2020

Pro Tip: If the torch turns out taller than you'd like, trim tube from bottom and re-hammer the end.

Revamp an old lampshade and set your garden aglow with a curvy torch.

Materials:

3/8-in. piece of soft copper tubing (length of your choosing)
Glass light shade
Glass jar with metal lid
Torch fuel
Wick
Metal awl, hole punch or big nail
Hammer
Hacksaw, manual pipe cutter, or bolt cutters
Spray sealer (optional)

Step-By-Step Instructions:

Step 1

Gently bend one end of copper tubing into a circle, so that the glass light shade rests in it securely. Continue to bend remaining length of copper tubing to form a curvy “stem.” Leave the bottom third of the tubing straight.

Step 2

Flatten the bottom end of tubing with a hammer. Push tubing into the ground. Make adjustments as needed to ensure light shade will remain upright and stable when placed.

Step 3

If desired, coat with a spray lacquer or clear acrylic enamel spray paint to keep copper shiny. Or leave it as is, and over time it will form a natural green patina.

Step 4

Punch a hole slightly smaller than diameter of wick into center of jar lid. Feed wick through lid, leaving no more than 1 1/4 in. at top. The wick should be no more than 2 in. longer than jar. Fill jar with torch fuel and screw lid on.

Step 5

Re-stake finished torch where desired. Nestle light shade in tubing circle, place jar in center of light shade and light the wick.