For Part 1 of DIY click HERE. I started my wall sconce project by cleaning all of the spider webs, dust and dirt off my bargain eBay find with a clean rag and steel wool. I then cut the wires that were attached since I knew I wanted to use candles instead of having them electrified. I wasn’t sure I wanted the permanence of having to decorate around them in the library (which is where I wanted them to hang).
I purchased some plastic sleeves that go around the bulb outlet sleeve, which is cardboard. I cute the sleeves to fit but not extend much past the outlet opening. I then began by painting a very light coat of satin finish black paint. I kept the black coat very light, you could still see the brass through the first layer of spray paint. After that dried thoroughly I spray painted a second coat, this time using the oil rubbed bronze spray paint. I continued to alternate the 2 spray paints until I had the finish I wanted. Once the sconces were thoroughly dry I applied (with a soft rag) some Behr water base stain in Norwegian teak. This was recommended by someone who had refinished a chandelier for me years ago. (I really wish I had tackled this project myself but as you will read in part 1, I was hiring someone to do a lot of projects that I realize I could have easily done on my own.
In any event, here is the finished project. What do you think? I really am happy with the way they turned out and it has given me confidence to try some more DIY projects. Any suggestions?
Carol Sullivan said:
I thing they look great and I like the candles vs. anything with wires. Why do you think you won’t light them? They would be great lit when you entertain.
Linda Wilson said:
I think your sconces look great also. You did such a could job refinishing them! I need to find some just like that and do the same. So often we have jobs done by others that we can do ourselves.
Karen said:
Linda,
Thank you! And thanks for stopping by, I hope you will revisit.
Karen