I have an architect's lamp, also known as a swing arm lamp, the kind with elbows that allow it to swing where you want it. I found that the clamp didn't work very well on my table, but there is a half inch thick projection at the bottom of the lamp that fits into the clamp. I drilled a half inch hole into my (old) sewing table, behind the machine and slightly to the right, and put the base of the lamp into it. It works well for me. If you decide to look for this kind of lamp study the base parts because not all of them would work this way. The post has to go straight down. Keep in mind that if the lamp is too close to the wall it's movements will be impeded. Also, before you drill be mindful of drawers or other moving parts. You don't want the lamp to interfere with those.