How to Distress a Chandelier

Turn off the breaker that powers the chandelier at the breaker box.

Set a ladder under the chandelier and carefully climb high enough to reach the chandelier.

Use a drill to remove the plate that holds your chandelier to the ceiling and disconnect the wires from the chandelier.

Set the chandelier onto a drop cloth in a well-ventilated area.

Remove any light bulbs, decorative chains or beads from the chandelier and set them aside.

Wipe the chandelier's body with a rag dampened with water and a mild dish soap, then rinse the chandelier with a damp clean rag. Dry the chandelier with a clean rag.

Cover any sockets and electrical wires with painter’s tape.

Apply paste wax to random areas of the chandelier with a rag and allow the paste wax time to dry. The wax will prevent the spray paint from adhering to the chandelier's base finish; once the paint is dry, you can clean the areas where the paste wax is to reveal the chandelier's base finish color, creating an antique appearance.

Spray the chandelier with at least one coat of spray paint in the color and finish of your choice. If your chandelier is metal, choose a spray piant formulated for covering metal. If necessary, add a second or third coat of paint until you achieve the finish you desire. Wait for each coat to dry before applying another coat. Let the final coat dry completely.

Use a wire brush to rub at the areas to which you applied the paste wax. Rub until the chandelier's original finish shows through.

Use the fine-grit sandpaper to gently rub the newly applied paint away from any other areas you wish to distress or highlight on the appliance. If you want the chandelier to look particularly old, gently bang on it with a hammer to dent its arms and base.

Wipe any paint chips or dust away with a clean tack cloth.

Spray a coat of lacquer on the chandelier to protect the finish. Allow the lacquer to dry.

Remove the painter’s tape and re-install any light bulbs and decorative pieces.

Re-install the chandelier by reconnecting the electrical wires and securing it to the ceiling. Turn the breaker back on.