Looking for a fun and profitable project to do at home? Consider making lamps--functional and decorative items that you can sell to friends and relatives, rent out to party planners for theme weddings or children's parties, consign to bazaars and boutiques, or even sell through e-commerce sites such as www.filgifts.com and www.divisoria.com.

Lamps are an attractive alternative to the usual centerpieces since the design becomes even more eye-catching once you turn the light on. Don't let all the electrical equipment scare you--this one is very easy to make.

MATERIALS NEEDED:

• lamp mechanism
• socket, P20
• flat wire, P10 per meter
• plug, P18
• 25-watt bulb, P35
• switch, P35 to P50 depending on the brand
• cooking pot trays as lamp frame, P15 each 
• lamp cover
• acetate, P5 per piece
• ribbon
• wire
• handmade paper, P25
• a pair of scissors, P50
• ruler
• pencil, P6
• pliers with wire cutter, P150
• cutter, P50
• one-hole punch
• double-sided tape, P45
• accent materials such as fake fur
  

These materials are available at your local bookstore, crafts store, electrical shop and hardware store. You may also use beads, sequins, fur trimmings, leather, fabric, abaca cloth and other materials as accent. In fact, you may also use recycled materials like old fabric or leather from a worn-out bag or chair. 

You'll need P3,000 to P5,000 to make 25 to 50 pieces of handmade lamps--and perhaps a little extra to cover your mistakes while perfecting your craft.