Article: The base for your lamp should be sturdy enough to stand on its own, even after you add lamp apparatus and a shade on top.  If you have a hollow base that you need to stabilize, consider partially filling it with something like marbles or sand. Some ideas for lamp bases that you could use:  Wine bottles Log or timber Wooden pails or buckets Toys or figurines Hollowed-out books These can be found at most hardware stores.  Note that it's possible to purchase the pieces separately, but buying them together will ensure a better fit.  If you do buy the cord separately, choose a #18 size cord.  If you don't want to buy a lamp kit, and instead want to purchase the items separately, you'll need: Detachable harp Cord set Push-through socket and socket shell Finial Assorted hardware, like nuts, bolts and washers The rod is a hollow tube that will run the cord up through the bottom of your base to the lightbulb at the top.  Depending on your base, you may have to drill or cut holes wide enough for the rod at the top and bottom of the lamp. If necessary, you can trim the rod with a hacksaw or pipe cutters, but it's best (and easier) to choose a base that's fitted to your rod. Sawing your rod down to size is not ideal. Your lamp kit might come with a piece meant to stabilize the bottom of your base.  If it doesn't, simply purchase rubber stoppers.  Affix these at intervals around the base to prevent sliding and lift the base slightly off the table, allowing room for the cord.
What is a summary of what this article is about?
Find a base. Buy a lamp kit. Prepare the base for the rod. Stabilize the bottom of the base.