How To Convert a Kerosene Lantern Into a Lamp

Transforming an old kerosene lantern into an electric lamp is a creative way to blend vintage charm with modern functionality. Though it requires a bit of electrical work, it’s a good project even for beginner do-it-yourselfers (DIYers). Above, master electrician Scott Caron demonstrates the step-by-step process of this illuminating transformation. You’ll find the steps recapped below.

Choosing a Kerosene Lantern

Kerosene lanterns have been a steadfast source of portable light for centuries. These traditional lighting devices consist of a fuel reservoir, a wick, and a glass chimney. While firelight provides a warm, nostalgic glow, having an open kerosene flame around the house is rarely a good idea, particularly if you have children or pets. If you replace the reservoir and wick with electrical components, you can preserve the ambiance while improving safety and convenience.

However, not all kerosene lanterns are suitable for conversion. Consider the following factors when selecting a lantern:

• Authenticity (antique versus modern replica)
• Lantern’s condition (rust-free and structurally sound)
• Size and structure (to accommodate electrical components)
• Style that complements your decor

Preparing for the Kerosene Lantern Conversion Project

Once you’ve picked your lantern, you can start assembling the other necessary tools and components.

Electrical Components

• Electrical cord (18 inches or longer)
• Lamp-switch housing
• Light bulb
• Light socket
• Plug cap

Pro tip: While you can certainly opt for a low-wattage incandescent bulb like Caron does in the video, there are also plenty of flame-effect LED bulbs that last longer and use less electricity.

Tools and Hardware

• Drill/driver with 3/8-inch drill bit
• Electrical tape
• Hole saw bits
• Lubricant spray
• Phillips screwdriver
• Rubber hose
• Wire cutters and stripper

Safety Considerations

Although this is a relatively easy project, working with electricity always carries some risk. You can reduce this risk by always using new, UL-listed electrical components rated for their intended use. As you work, ensure all electrical connections are secure and properly insulated. If you have doubts about the finished product’s safety, consult a professional electrician.

Step-by-Step Kerosene Lantern Conversion Process

Here’s how Caron inserted and connected the electrical components to light up his new kerosene lamp.

Step 1: Preparing the Lantern

1. Remove the glass globe from the lantern.
2. Unscrew and remove the old kerosene wick.
3. Clean the lantern thoroughly, removing any residual kerosene or dirt.

Technique Detail: After removing the glass globe and wick, you’ll need to drill a hole in the lantern body to route the electrical cord. As demonstrated in a This Old House project, draw a 3/8-inch hole to give the cord a place to exit the lantern before moving on to installing the socket.

Step 2: Creating Openings for Electrical Components

1. Drill a 3/8-inch hole in the lantern’s base for the electrical cord.
2. Secure a piece of scrap wood in a vise.
3. Use a hole saw to enlarge the center portion where the wick used to fit.

Step 3: Installing the Electrical Cord

1. Spray the interior of the rubber hose with lubricant.Technique Detail: After removing the glass globe and wick, you’ll need to drill a hole in the lantern body to route the electrical cord. As demonstrated in a This Old House project, draw a 3/8-inch hole to give the cord a place to exit the lantern before moving on to installing the socket.
2. Thread the electrical wire through the hose.
3. Feed the electrical wire through the 3/8-inch hole in the base and up into the center hole.
4. Position the rubber hose so it’s roughly centered through the 3/8-inch hole.

Pro tip: The rubber hose acts as strain relief for the electrical wire, protecting it against potential damage from the drilled hole’s metal edge.

Step 4: Wiring the Socket

1. Strip off an inch of insulation from the end of the electrical wire that will connect to the light bulb.
2. Attach the exposed copper ends to the screws on the bottom of the light socket.
3. Tighten the screws securely.
4. Insulate the connection with electrical tape for safety.

Polarity Matters: Rubber-insulated lamp cord comprises two wires joined at the center. Split them apart, and use a wire stripper to strip ½ inch of insulation from each, revealing bare copper. The neutral wire—identifiable by ridges on its insulation—wraps around the socket’s silver screw, while the hot wire connects to the brass screw. Getting this polarity right ensures the lamp operates safely.

Step 5: Assembling the Lamp

1. Place the socket into the lantern’s center hole.
2. Screw in the light bulb.
3. Carefully return the glass globe to its place in the lantern.

Securing the Socket: Before placing the socket, thread one end of a hollow brass screw (also known as a nipple) onto the metal cap that comes with your porcelain socket, and tighten the cap’s set screw. Slip the brass socket housing over the other end of the screw. Insert the protruding end of the screw into the hole at the top of the lantern, slip the ground wire’s ring over the screw, and twist on a hanging loop to secure everything in place.

Step 6: Adding the Switch

1. About 18 inches down the electrical wire from the lamp’s base, cut one of the two wires in half.
2. Place both pieces of the cut wire into the bottom portion of the lamp-switch housing.
3. Attach the top portion of the lamp-switch housing, ensuring the metal spikes pierce the wire insulation.
4. Secure the housing by screwing it together.

Step 7: Attaching the Plug

1. Thread the disconnected end of the electrical wire through the plug cap.
2. Bottom out the wire into the pronged end of the plug.
3. Clamp down the prongs and secure the cap.
4. Plug in and test your lantern.

This type of plug uses prongs that pierce the insulation, so there’s no need to strip the wire ends. Simply bottom out the cord into the pronged end, close the prongs on top of the wire, and push the cap down to secure it.

Troubleshooting Common Lantern Issues

If your lantern isn’t working, unplug it and check for the following problems:

• If the lamp doesn’t light up, check all connections and ensure the bulb is properly seated.
• For flickering lights, tighten all connections and verify the bulb is the correct wattage.
• If the switch feels loose, disassemble and reassemble it, ensuring all components are properly aligned.