I don’t usually salvage plastic, but this oil container stood out. Its bold graphic design and race-inspired checkered stripe suggested someone truly cared about its look—unusual for single-use packaging.

A visit to Millers’ website confirmed my hunch: they supply high-grade oils to motorsports. The container’s three-part build—black base, white body, red top—along with the two-color screen print, made it feel premium and purposeful.

I instantly saw its potential as a lamp. My first version was basic, with a plain cord and a loose light fitting, but it still gave off a warm, relaxing glow.

Later, a customer gave me some checkered woven electrical-cord offcuts, echoing the container’s design. I upgraded the electrics, and luckily, a hunch buy—a shroud from a major online retailer—fit the lid perfectly. Now it’s not just a lamp, it’s a piece I’m really proud of.