How to get this thrift store chandelier makeover for $15

If you have been following my blog posts, you might have seen some of the projects I’ve been creating in my budget-friendly home makeover.

I was on a mission to create a beautiful home with a coastal flair without breaking the bank.

I bought this chandelier at Habitat For Humanity for $15. My goal was to use coastal colors and twine to give it a beachy feel.

One of my favorite parts of decorating this way is proving that you don’t need an expensive budget to create a home you love. A little imagination, a few inexpensive supplies, and a willingness to see the potential in secondhand finds can completely transform a room. That’s exactly why I enjoy sharing these projects—to inspire you to look beyond what a piece is today and imagine what it could become.

Chandelier Makeover: Before the Transformation

This is what it looked like when I bought it. The size was perfect, and I loved the metal shade. It just needed a little color and twine to bring it to life.

One of the things I’ve learned over the years is to look beyond the current condition of a piece. I focus on its shape, size, and potential instead of its color or finish. With just a few inexpensive supplies and a little imagination, you can transform an ordinary thrift store find into a one-of-a-kind piece that looks like it came from a high-end home décor boutique.

The first thing I did was spray paint it with copper spray paint. I applied several light coats instead of one heavy coat to avoid drips and create a smooth, even finish. Be sure to let each coat dry before applying the next one. Taking a little extra time during this step will give you better coverage and a more durable finish that looks professionally done.

Then I added coastal colors such as dark blue, white, and teal chalk paint to make it look like a patina finish. (I make my own chalk paint) It’s super easy. Using a sea sponge, I dabbed the paint on the shade, and while it was wet, I sprayed a little water to blend the colors. Don’t spray too much water; a light squirt will do the trick. If it is too runny, use your sea sponge to dab off the excess. Here’s where you can get the magic powder to make your own chalk paint.

Here is a close-up of how it should look. Don’t overdo it. You want the copper to come through. The goal is to create a naturally aged finish, not completely cover the metal. During your chandelier makeover, allowing hints of the original copper to show through adds warmth, depth, and character. Step back every few minutes to check your progress, and remember—you can always add more paint, but it’s much harder to remove it once it’s dry.

Once it dries you can add rope (Twine) This was the added touch that gave it a beachy feel.

Then I used a glue gun to apply the twine. I also wrapped the twine all the way up to the medallion to hide the wires.

Apply the glue and wrap the twine, holding it in place for about a minute while the glue begins to set. Work slowly and keep the twine pulled snug so it lays neatly against each row. Continue wrapping until you’ve covered the entire area, making small adjustments as you go for a clean, even finish. The extra care will give your project a polished, professional look.

What a transformation! Hope this was an inspiration.

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XO

Cheryl