Jessie Taylor
There are many ways to upgrade your chandelier to give it a fresh, new look. You can easily replace the candle covers with inexpensive resin candle covers that mimic the old-time style of having real candles. You can also spray paint the candle covers to match the light. Another option is to swap out the bulbs for silk-wrapped or frosted bulbs. If you're looking for a more dramatic change, you can follow designer Donna Moss's lead and give your chandelier a custom faux-antique look. For a summery feel, you could even transform a thrift store chandelier into an outdoor candle chandelier.
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Painting candle sleeves
To paint the candle sleeves, first remove them by unscrewing the lightbulbs from the chandelier. Then, gently push the candle covers up to take them off the light fixture. Clean the candle covers with soap and water and let them dry. Insert nails into cardboard and place one candle cover over each nail so that the cover is propped upright. Spray paint the covers, using light coats and following the dry times on the spray paint can. You can use whatever colour of spray paint you like, although if your chandelier is black, a matte black spray paint on the candle covers is recommended. You can also use a small paintbrush to paint the candle sleeves, although this may be more time-consuming. For a vintage look, try painting the sleeves with gold paint and adding some crystals.
If your candle sleeves are broken or cracked, you may need to replace them instead of painting them. Make sure to measure your candle sleeves before buying new ones, as there are different options for candle cover length. You can also buy candle covers made from materials other than plastic, such as resin or wax, which can give your chandelier a more romantic or beautiful look. These covers are easier to keep clean and allow you to use whatever watt bulb you wish.
Candles in Hand Luggage: What's Allowed?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Using resin candle covers
Resin candle covers are a great way to upgrade your chandelier and give it an elegant, old-world feel. They are a fantastic alternative to beeswax candle covers, which can be difficult to keep clean and limit the wattage of the bulb you can use. Resin covers, on the other hand, are easy to maintain and allow you to use any wattage bulb you prefer. They also look very realistic, with "'drips'" running down the side, mimicking real candle wax.
You can find resin candle covers in a variety of styles, including smooth finishes and those with "'drips'". They are available in different sizes and can even be custom-made to fit your chandelier perfectly. Some companies, like Lumiere Candles and Lighting, offer custom sizing and quick shipping. You can also find them in antique shops or online.
When installing resin candle covers, ensure that they are not taller than the top of the chandelier socket. This will ensure they fit correctly and safely. You can also pair them with silk-wrapped or satin-wrapped bulbs for a softer, more eye-pleasing glow. These bulbs are easier on the eyes than regular chandelier bulbs and create a beautiful ambiance.
Resin candle covers are a simple and effective way to transform your chandelier. They are long-lasting, with some users reporting that their covers still look beautiful and white 15 years after purchase. With their realistic appearance and practical benefits, resin candle covers are an excellent choice for upgrading your lighting fixtures.
Candles: Eco-Friendly Lighting or Environmental Disaster?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Replacing light bulbs
Before attempting to replace the light bulbs, ensure that the power source to the chandelier is turned off at the breaker. This is an important safety precaution.
If your chandelier is within reach, you may simply need a basic tool kit and a set of replacement bulbs. It is recommended to have an assistant to hand you tools and bulbs and to ensure the ladder stays steady if one is required.
If your chandelier is very high up, you may need to get creative. Some suggestions include using a tall A-frame ladder, borrowing an extension ladder from the fire department, or using a hook to pull the fixture towards you and resting it on a railing. Alternatively, you could rework the light with a long cable that can be lowered for bulb changes.
Once you have safely accessed the bulbs, you can replace them with regular light bulbs or opt for silk-wrapped or satin-wrapped bulbs for a more elegant look. If you are using a dimmer, it is recommended to use 60-watt bulbs, whereas for non-dimmed chandeliers, 40-watt bulbs are suggested.
You can also enhance the appearance of your chandelier by replacing plain candle sleeves with decorative ones that resemble wax pillar candles. These can be purchased from custom lighting stores or online.
If you are happy with your existing bulbs, but wish to improve the overall look of your chandelier, consider spray painting it with an antique finish, such as bronze. You can also paint over the white socket threads and rings to give your fixture a consistent look.
Finally, if you are looking for a simple upgrade, you can cover the sockets with candle socket covers. These are available in various sizes and can be spray-painted to match the colour of your chandelier.
The Warmth of Patchouli and Teak: Haven St. Candle Co
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Adding candle socket covers
- Plastic candle covers: These are the most common type and come in various styles, such as plain or with "drips" that mimic candle wax. Ensure you purchase high-quality plastic to achieve the desired look.
- Wax candle covers: These provide an elegant and authentic appearance, resembling real candles. However, it is crucial to follow the recommended wattage to prevent the wax from melting.
- Resin candle covers: Resin covers are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. They closely resemble wax covers with "drips" and allow for greater flexibility in bulb wattage choices.
- Silk-wrapped bulbs: Combining resin candle covers with silk-wrapped bulbs can enhance the overall aesthetic of your chandelier. These bulbs provide a softer and more pleasing light compared to traditional chandelier bulbs.
When purchasing candle socket covers, it is important to consider the correct size. Measure the diameter and height of your existing sockets to ensure a proper fit. You can find candle socket covers in various sizes and styles on online platforms like Etsy, where some sellers even offer customisation options.
Additionally, you can give your chandelier a unique touch by painting the candle covers. Spray paint them to match the colour of your chandelier, or opt for a matte black finish for a sophisticated look. Whether you choose to paint or not, adding candle socket covers is an inexpensive way to transform your chandelier and create a warm and inviting ambiance in your space.
Candles With Essential Oils: Are They Safe for Dogs?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Creating an outdoor candle chandelier
First, you will need to gather the necessary materials. You can start by looking for a brass chandelier from the 1990s in a thrift store. Alternatively, you can repurpose old light fixtures, such as string lights and wire garden baskets, to create a unique base for your chandelier. If you are handy with woodwork, you can also opt to build the chandelier frame from scratch using lumber.
Once you have your base, you will need to plan the layout of your candles. Consider using battery-operated pillar candles of different sizes, which can be easily sourced from stores like Walmart. Battery-powered candles are ideal for outdoor use as you don't have to worry about the breeze or rain. If you want to include fresh greenery in your design, as some outdoor candle chandeliers do, you can use chicken wire and floral foam to secure the foliage in place.
Now, it's time to assemble your chandelier. If you're using a pre-made base, simply attach the candles with a bit of velcro or glue at the bottom of each candle. For a more secure option, you can create a groove for each candle by drilling down and routering out the inside of the circle. If you're building the frame from scratch, cut and join the boards with pocket holes, ensuring that the pocket holes are on the top side.
Finally, hang your outdoor candle chandelier. These chandeliers can be hung from a tree, an arbor, or above an outdoor dining table to create a cosy atmosphere for your outdoor gatherings.
The Ultimate Guide to Knowing When Your Candle is Done
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
There are many ways to upgrade an old chandelier. You can spray paint the light fixtures, add a pendant to an oversized glass shell, or change the bulbs. You can also update the candle covers with paint or buy new ones.
Candle covers are tube-like plastic that slides over the lamp socket to cover the electrical components. They come in different styles, including plain and "drips" that mimic candle wax.
Yes, you can make your own candle chandelier using a thrift store find. You can use real candles or battery-operated ones.
You can cover the sockets on your chandelier with candle socket covers. You can find these online or in stores like Lowe's.
You can give your chandelier a custom faux-antique look by following techniques from designers like Donna Moss.
