When it's a lamp...and simultaneously a coaster.
I have a friend who makes lamps out of found objects and fun vintage toys and such. She made a lamp from an old easy-bake oven once and left the little metal trays in to use as coasters. Fun.
I met her years ago, during my roller derby phase.
When I was Jenerally Hartless #789.
But that's another story altogether!
This is about the lamp. My mother gave me several pairs of these old school roller skates back when I was in my last days of skating. I gave them to my friend because I thought they'd make cool lamps. In exchange, she gave me one of the lamps. I often use the skates as coasters, just because I think the skates are just perfect for holding my little glass of brandy. (or whatever else I happen to be sipping)
Cheers!