How to Create a Shabby Chic Chandelier

"Shabby chic" is a simple design that focuses on lightly worn antique replicated items. Many of these items concentrate on three main colors: white, pink and light green. Creating your own shabby chic chandelier adds romance and a touch of whimsy to your boudoir, dining room or living room.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Antique chandelier
• Faux crystal teardrops with hooks
• Newspaper or drop cloth
• Sandpaper
• Washcloth
• White matte spray paint
• Cordless drill with small drill bit
• Screws
• 12-inch white pillar candles
• Needle nose pliers
• Scissors

1. Scour thrift shops or antique markets to find an antique chandelier of any color that is in ill repair but has a solid structure. You can also reuse an old or antique chandelier that no longer operates.

2. Lay out newspaper or drop cloth in a well ventilated area.

3. Snip all electrical wiring on the chandelier with your needle nose pliers or scissors; discard the wire. Keep the hanger intact if you are going to be hanging the chandelier.

4. Remove all light bulbs and wires inside the bulb sockets.

5. Take your sandpaper and lightly sand the surfaces of the chandelier to remove excess paint and dirt. Wipe clean with a dry washcloth.

6. Paint the chandelier on both the top and bottom surfaces with the white matte spray paint. Flip over to allow one side to dry for 1 hour before painting the other side. Allow to dry completely or for 24 hours.

7. Sand scattered locations lightly on the painted chandelier. Allow the base color of the chandelier to lightly show through.

8. Attach the faux crystal drops by drilling a small hole through the base surrounding each socket area. Hang the crystals from the socket base. Insert white pillar candles into each socket hole.

9. Hang the chandelier from the desired location or set the chandelier on a table.

Tips & Warnings

• This chandelier makes a great centerpiece; it does not have to hang from the ceiling.
• Vary the colors in the crystals to match the color of your decor.
• Light the candles if desired.
• To avoid inhaling fumes, complete this project outdoors or in a well ventilated area.
• Use caution when using lit candles, follow fire hazard guidelines per your location.

[nanamusicgirl]

on 8/17/2009 Beautiful, love this look!!!!