How to Make an Antler Chandelier

The vast majority of antler chandeliers are made from naturally shed antlers. In fact in many areas antler hunters comb the hills and then sell their wares to those hoping to make deer-friendly antler chandeliers. Make an antler chandelier from whitetail deer, moose, elk and mule deer.

Things You'll Need

• Antlers
• chandelier wiring kit
• polyurethane

Instructions

1. Purchase a lighting kit from a hardware store to help you with the wiring. Find one that is specifically for chandeliers and contains as many light bulb adapters as you need.

2. Find or purchase antlers. Choose antlers that are roughly the same size. The shapes are all different, so pick ones work well together.

3. Clean out the inside of the antlers with oil soap for the best results. Drill a hole through the tip of the antler point you wish to hold a light bulb.

4. Coat the antlers with polyurethane to ensure durability. Use a low sheen polyurethane and allow the antlers to dry thoroughly between coats.

5. Connect the antlers together at their bases. Drill holes through the sides of the antlers and run wire through the holes to create a circle of antlers. Tighten the wires and sodder them together. Attach with screws if necessary.

6. Run the electrical wiring through the antlers and out the tips. Connect the antler chandelier to the wiring in the ceiling. Secure the chandelier to the ceiling using screws and anchors.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not run the electrical wiring through the antlers until you are sure the antlers are stable. Consult with an electrician if unsure how to test the stability of the antlers.