Once again, “quick” is relative here, since this project was 17 years in the making. Once the inspiration hit, though, it was completed in less than an hour, including drying time. The spraying took about 10 minutes, taping took about 5.
Does everyone married in the 90’s have one of these?
I have HATED this lamp since we got it as a wedding present. I told myself I liked it when it came out of the box because I was informed by my mother-in-law that it was an expensive lamp and that her friends who gave it to us were so generous to spend that much. So, for 17 years, it’s been the main source of light in our living room. Blah. Reading do-it-yourself blogs has contributed to a new level of contempt for brass…can I hear an “Amen”?!
check out that SPARKLE! It’s like an Orbit gum ad!
The shape of the lamp is nice, so I found a can of Oil Rubbed Bronze spray paint in the basement, taped off the cord and the business end of the lamp and had at it. I had every intention of dusting the lamp first but I think I forgot. Oops!
I sprayed 2 coats on lightly with about 15 minutes in between to let it dry. I forgot about it for another 30 minutes and it was ready for the new shade. I picked up the barrel shade at Target for another lamp ($20) but it didn’t fit. The shade’s a little darker than I wanted but I didn’t want the brighter white one.
I think it looks so much better. I’m sick of the wall color in this room but that’s a project for another day.
Another view…. it looks black in the photo but IRL it looks more metallic and bronzish. Because I’m impatient, the brass is peeking through in a couple of spots but it looks like it’s supposed to be that way.I’m satisfied with the cost of this project about $23 total. These kind of lamps are in thrift stores and yard sales all the time, I guess I’m not the only one who doesn’t love brass.
I’m linking to Frugal Friday’s over at the Shabby Nest and Frugalicious Friday over at Finding Fabulous. Check out these blogs…lots of inspiration. I’ll link to Show and Share Day at “Just a Girl“(one of my favorite blogs) when Chris returns from vacation.
Isn’t amazing how a little change can make such a difference? So pretty.
Melissa,
You’re not kidding. Except I’m kicking myself for not having the ingenuity to think of it before now. I’ve never claimed to have design talent, though. I’m just plucking away at projects here and there. A year ago, I had no idea that there was such a thing as oil rubbed bronze spray paint or that you could paint something to look like that.
Can’t wait to check out your blog.
Beth
Your lamp turned out great! Isn’t it amazing what some hard work and spray paint can do? Great redo!! 🙂
Oh, Amanda…no hard work involved. I haven’t been brave enough to tackle anything that required hard work or power tools. I’m jonesing to reupholster a few things, though. SCEERY!