Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Presto Chango

A girlfriend purchased this amazing vintage ceiling fixture off etsy. Isn't it awesome? It's perfect for her
1800s log house.


Unfortunately, this is the color it really was. It was rather garish, not even close to the picture on etsy. Plus, it arrived broken with more pieces dropping off as it was moved. Heartbreaking!


My friend asked me to repair and paint the light and even though I've never done anything like that before, I agreed to do it. In my box of lamp parts (I am a true junker) I found a cap and a finial that would work. We agreed on a patinated copper look and I got to it.

The first coat of copper spray paint was a little bright. (Yes, I'm using a Puppy Pad as a surface.)


 When the spray paint dried I did a few coats of black wash using black craft paint thinned with lots of water. I dabbed up the excess paint as I went, leaving little pools in the crevices. I wanted the build-up to be gradual.


 Then, when the black wash was dry I went over the entire piece with Plaid brand Glaze Vernis. Again, I watered down the glaze and did 3 coats, dabbing with a rag as I went.


And here is the finished light fixture installed in my friend's kitchen. I love it!



More importantly, my friend and her husband love it. And I got to learn a new technique!

ps. The etsy seller kindly paid for the repair and painting. Sweet!

Linking up to:
savvy southern style
restore interiors
primp

5 comments:

  1. Oh, what a difference and I love the patina you achieved. I'm visiting from Primp Your Stuff. Thanks for sharing.

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  2. Love this piece. And, the finish turned out gorgeous.........looks just like it aged that way naturally. Im your newest follower, so please, please come visit me and maybe follow back. 8-)

    PICKINandPAINTIN.blogspot.com

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  3. Beautifully done and you saved that vintage fixture from an tragic end! You friend is very lucky to have you. ~ Maureen

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  4. I really love the light, and love the finish. Beautifully done and so happy you saved the vintage fixture, it would be a sin to lose a piece like this. Thanks for sharing your creative inspiration at Sunday's Best!

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