Wiring Sconces

Room by Room : Episode RXR-2010 -- More Projects »
PHOTO

Create the look of hardwired sconces and enhance them with tree cross sections.
Materials:

tree cross section (available at craft stores)
drill
3/4" spade bit
router with 3/4" straight bit
1x2 boards
PHOTO

Figure A
Steps:

1. Put the sconce in the desired location on top of the cross section and trace around it lightly. Set the sconce aside and drill a hole in the cross section large enough for the cord to pass through using a spade bit. Tip: Drill until just the pointed tip has come through the other side, and then turn the cross section over to complete the hole to prevent splintering.
2. Rout a groove along the back of the cross section from the hole to the bottom edge using a jig made of four 1x2s nailed together as a guide (figure A).

PHOTO

Figure B
3. Run the plug through the hole in the back plate, and then tie an underwriter's knot so the cord can't be pulled back through (figure B). Attach the grounding wire and the two lamp wires using wire nuts, and then assemble the lamp.
Also in this Episode
Room by Room : Episode RXR-2010
•A Bedroom of Desert Hues
•Checking Lumber
•Platform Bed
•Wiring Sconces
•Wild West Topper