How to Make a Rustic DIY Wall Sconce Light

This rustic DIY wall sconce light is a simple, beginner-friendly project I made using a wood bracket as the base for the sconce. By starting with a pre-made bracket, you skip complicated cuts and measurements, which makes this project much easier than building a sconce structure from scratch.

In this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll show you exactly how to turn that wood bracket into a functional wall sconce light, including the tools and materials you’ll need, how to prep and assemble the pieces, how to wire the light safely using a plug-in kit, and how to install it on the wall.

Easy RUSTIC Craft: DIY wall sconce Light

This project sat on my to-do list longer than I expected because I kept thinking it would require more complicated woodworking. Once I realized I could use a simple wood bracket as the base, everything clicked. The build became much more approachable, and the rest of the project came together easily from there.

How to Make an Easy DIY Wall Light Fixture

I just didn’t like my standing lamp and wanted a lighting fixture that would save me space on the nightstand and look amazingly good.

Using a pre-made wood bracket as the base keeps this project simple and eliminates the need for advanced woodworking.

Here’s how I did it!!!

Supplies:

• Pendant light kit (You can find really inexpensive ones on amazon and Ikea)
• Switch and plug (if the light kit doesn’t include it)
• Metal Wire Cage Lamp Guard
• A vintage Lightbulb
• Wooden Shelf Brackets
• Walnut wood stain
• Wood sealer
• Cheap brushes
• Sandpaper (400 gritt)
• Protective wear (Plastic apron, latex gloves, and plastic cover)
• Cloth
• Masking tape

Tools:

• Drill
• Wood drill bit
• Concrete drill bit if it’s the case.
• Screwdriver
• Screws

Step-by-step Instructions:

I created a quick video tutorial to make it easy for you! However, if you are more of a photo step-by-step kind of person just scroll down and keep reading!

a little DIY hack I used

Although you can super easily make your own sconce with just 2 or 3 pieces of wood boards (or buy it already made), I decided to just use 2 wooden shelf brackets instead. You can find a pair for around $15 on amazon and I bet you can find them even cheaper, either on sale or in shops like Dollar tree.

I just wanted to make it as easy as possible and doable for anyone with or without tools or any crafty skill level. 

Step 1: Prep The Work Area

Cover your work surface with a plastic sheet or drop cloth to protect it from stain and sealer.
Wear latex or nitrile gloves when handling stain and wood sealer.

Before you begin, lay out all your materials and tools so everything is within reach. This helps avoid mistakes once staining starts.s handy.

Step 2: Drill the Wire Holes in the Brackets

Because shelf brackets are not designed for wiring, the top board may not have a hole or may have one that’s too small. If needed, mark where the wire should pass through. I used the light cage as a reference to center the hole correctly.

Place a scrap wood block or wood cube underneath the bracket to support it while drilling.

If the wood feels fragile or prone to splitting, start with a pilot hole using a small drill bit. I used a 2 mm wood drill bit first, then switched to the drill bit size needed for my cord.

The final drill bit size will depend on the thickness of your lamp cord. The hole should be just large enough for the wire to pass through smoothly without forcing it.

Step 3: Sand the Shelf Brackets

After drilling the holes, sand each shelf bracket to remove splinters and smooth the surface. Pay special attention to edges and corners, where rough spots are more likely.

Use sandpaper to reach tight areas as best as possible, especially near the drilled hole and along the edges.

Once sanding is complete, wipe each bracket thoroughly with a dry cloth to remove all dust before staining.

Step 4: Stain and Seal the Brackets.

Before you begin, protect your clothing and work area. Wear gloves and, if needed, a plastic apron to avoid staining accidents.

Apply wood stain evenly to each bracket. I used two coats of walnut wood stain. Instead of wiping off the excess, I let the wood absorb the stain fully to achieve a deeper, richer finish.

Allow the stain to dry until it no longer transfers when touched. Drying time will vary by brand and environment, so follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Once dry, apply a matte wood sealer. This extra step helps prevent fading and protects the wood from humidity, sunlight, and general wear over time.

Let the sealer dry completely according to the product instructions before moving on to assembly.

Step 5: Wire the Wall Sconce

Most plug-in lamp kits do not come with the plug or switch attached, which allows the cord to fit through the drilled hole. If your kit includes them, disconnect the plug and switch from the cord before continuing.

Insert the cord through the hole in the bracket from the bottom up.

Reattach the switch and plug following the instructions included with your lamp kit. Each kit may be slightly different, so always follow the manufacturer’s directions.

Once assembled, decide how far you want the socket and shade to hang below the bracket. Wrap the cord around the bracket as needed to achieve the desired length.

In my case, the light cage hangs about one inch below the bracket, but this can be adjusted based on your preference and cord length.

Step 6: Install the Wall Sconce on the Wall

To mark the drilling points accurately, place masking tape over the mounting holes on the back of the bracket and poke small holes through the tape where the screws will go.

Use a level to position the tape on the wall, making sure the bracket will be straight.

Drill the holes using the correct drill bit for your wall type. For concrete walls, use concrete drill bits. For drywall or other surfaces, choose appropriate anchors and hardware.

Secure the shelf bracket to the wall using a screwdriver or drill, making sure it is firmly attached before hanging the light.

Step 7: Install the Light Bulb and Test the Sconce

Finally, install the light bulb into the socket. I used a vintage-style LED bulb with warm light and low brightness, which works well for ambient lighting.

Make sure the bulb’s wattage does not exceed the maximum recommended for your lamp kit.

Once the bulb is installed, plug in the cord and test the light. If everything turns on properly and the fixture feels secure, your DIY wall sconce is complete.

NOTE: If the light does not turn on, double-check the switch wiring and ensure all connections are secure before unplugging and adjusting.

Voila!!!!

How cute is it????

Once installed, this wall sconce completely changed the feel of the room and freed up space on my nightstand.

Alternatives and Variations

Bracket alternatives:
If you can’t find a wooden shelf bracket, metal brackets can also work. Keep in mind that drilling metal requires different drill bits and more care.

Finish options:
Instead of stain, you can paint the brackets for a more modern or cottage-style look. Chalk paint or matte acrylic paint both work well on wood.

Cord length variations:
A longer cord allows the light to hang lower for a more dramatic look, while a shorter cord keeps the sconce compact and minimal.

Shade styles:
This project works with open wire cages, small fabric shades, or even exposed bulbs. Just make sure the shade size doesn’t interfere with the bracket or wall.

Hardwired version:
This tutorial uses a plug-in light kit for simplicity. If you prefer a hardwired sconce, the wood bracket structure still works, but wiring should be handled by a licensed electrician.

Frequently Asked Questions

More Decorative Woodworking Projects to Try

If you enjoyed this gorgeous wall sconce light tutorial, you might also love these other decorative woodworking project ideas too:

✂️ Tutorial

Some other wall lamps and sconces I love from my favorite bloggers:

• DIY Wireless Wall Sconce by Chatfield Court.
• Easy Wooden DIY Wall Sconces with Tea Lights by DIY Inspired.
• Wireless Wall Sconces With LED puck light by Simply 2 Moms.

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