Easy makeover: update an old light fitting

16 Nov 2016

Julie Williams from Abode magazine shows us how to add ambience and a touch of elegance to our outdoor living spaces with an upcycled candle-holder. 

You will need: 

• An old chandelier or pendant light with multiple bulb fixtures
• Sugar soap
• Resene GP Metal Primer
• Resene topcoat in the colour of your choice – we used Resene All Black
• Paintbrush
• Length of threaded rod – make sure the rod is the same diameter as the hole that the wires and cord have come through
• Hacksaw
• Drill
• Candles

Here's how:

Start by taking the light fitting to pieces, removing all wires, cord and attachments that are not needed. Give the frame of your light a good wash with sugar soap to ensure your light fitting is clean and grease-free.

Once dry, apply your primer. This will help you achieve a smooth paint finish, while protecting your light from the wear and tear of being outdoors.

After the primer is completely dry, apply topcoat. Before the final coat, put your light fitting back together. This will ensure nothing gets marked and that you achieve a smooth and flawless paint finish.

Cut the threaded rod two-thirds the length of your candles, while leaving enough to screw into the base of each light fitting plate. You can do this with a hacksaw; but, if you can, find someone with a grinder that has a cutting wheel – it will make the job a lot easier. You may need to drill a hole in the light fitting plate to fit the rod.

Drill a hole the same diameter as the rod through the candles, ensuring you don’t damage the wick. Screw your candles onto the threaded rod, light and enjoy!

Tip: If you want to keep the bugs at bay, opt for citronella candles.

See more from Abode magazine. 

Published: 16 Nov 2016