How to Antique a Brass Light Fixture
Change an outdated brass light fixture into one resembling an antique and primitive style. Remove the harsh yellow brass coloration and give your light fixture a complete makeover with metallic paint and glaze. Coordinating hardware such as door knobs, pulls and other brass accessories can be transformed to match using the same faux finish paint technique. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Sponge
- Kitchen soap
- Water
- Toothpicks
- Cotton swabs
- Light to medium grit sanding sponge or sandpaper
- Damp cloth
- Cardboard box
- Black or brown spray paint
- Clear glaze
- Bronze paint
- Plastic container or bucket
- Wood stir stick
- Chip brush
Instructions
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Clean the item using warm soapy water and a sponge. Use toothpicks or cotton swabs to remove dirt and grime from hard-to-reach crevices on the light fixture. Use a light to medium grit sanding sponge or sandpaper to lightly scuff up the brass surface. Wipe the light fixture with a damp cloth to remove dust or particles created by sanding.
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Place the light fixture into a large cardboard box with one side removed. Use black or dark brown spray paint to give the light fixture an even, opaque basecoat. Spray the basecoat paint evenly by depressing the nozzle and holding the can 6 to 8 inches from the surface. Know that one or two coats may be necessary to achieve even coverage. Do not apply a thick coat to avoid the paint from bubbling up or dripping. Allow to dry 24 hours.
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Mix together one part clear glaze and one part bronze paint in a clean plastic container or bucket. Stir the solution well until an even consistency is created. Use a chip brush to pounce the metallic glaze solution onto the light fixture. Cover the entire fixture. Use a rag to manipulate the still-wet glaze. Pounce the chip brush and stipple the glaze to form an antique metallic wash on the light fixture. Continue the process until the desired paint effect is achieved. Allow to dry 24 hours prior to placing light fixture back into use.
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Tips & Warnings
Practice with a variety of different paint combinations to match the color palette in your home. An ivory basecoat and chocolate brown glaze or a simple black basecoat and silver glaze are additional combinations. Use a scrap piece of wood or poster board to experiment with.
Always wear gloves when doing a decorative paint treatment. Protect skin and nails from glaze and paint buildup. Apply lotion to hands prior to putting on latex gloves for additional protection.
Always use spray paint in a well ventilated area---outdoors is preferred. Open all windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate and remove the buildup of paint and glaze fumes.
