Bored with your existing fixtures but can't afford to purchase new ones? Try these 5 ideas to update your fixtures and give your rooms new life!
1) Change the shade. Whether you replace the shade with a new style, or dress up what you have, this single change can be enough. If your shades are in perfect condition but lack interest, dress them up. Add ribbon, appliques and other elements with a hot glue gun. Try adding a new fabric to the shade or the metal form. Glue trim to the bottom of the shade, rubber stamp a pattern on, add individual beads or stones, shells or other items. Be creative and be sure the additions are safely away from the bulb.
2) Remove outdated elements. This often completely changes the profile of an old chandelier. Remove the shade(s) and pieces like crystals, leaves and other ornamentation. Not enough? Keep reading.
3) Paint it a new color. Change a brass chandelier into a hammered wrought iron finish. Transform chrome into a dramatic red. Many craft stores sell patina kits to create copper, rust and antique gold finishes. Faux effects are wonderful if you have time, but be sure to spray the finished fixture with a clear coat to protect. Be sure to remove rust or other damage unless desired for a new look.
4) Use a decorative bulb. Look for bulbs that give you a brighter light. Try round modern bulbs or ones that look like candles to change the feeling of your light fixture.
1) Change the shade. Whether you replace the shade with a new style, or dress up what you have, this single change can be enough. If your shades are in perfect condition but lack interest, dress them up. Add ribbon, appliques and other elements with a hot glue gun. Try adding a new fabric to the shade or the metal form. Glue trim to the bottom of the shade, rubber stamp a pattern on, add individual beads or stones, shells or other items. Be creative and be sure the additions are safely away from the bulb.
2) Remove outdated elements. This often completely changes the profile of an old chandelier. Remove the shade(s) and pieces like crystals, leaves and other ornamentation. Not enough? Keep reading.
3) Paint it a new color. Change a brass chandelier into a hammered wrought iron finish. Transform chrome into a dramatic red. Many craft stores sell patina kits to create copper, rust and antique gold finishes. Faux effects are wonderful if you have time, but be sure to spray the finished fixture with a clear coat to protect. Be sure to remove rust or other damage unless desired for a new look.
4) Use a decorative bulb. Look for bulbs that give you a brighter light. Try round modern bulbs or ones that look like candles to change the feeling of your light fixture.
5) Add an element. Create a more elegant chandelier by dropping individual crystals or strings of crystal beads from the arms. Sometimes you can find interesting parts at thrift shops and garage sales. Consider switching decor seasonally. Suspend ribbon, ornaments, natural findings (twigs, pinecones, berries) and paint them as needed to fit with your decor.