How to Cover an Ugly Chandelier

Spread newspapers over the work space to protect it from paint.

Remove the glass panels from the chandelier and lay them flat. Slide the glass panels up until they are clear of the clips on the inside of the chandelier frame. Clean both sides of the glass with alcohol and a lint-free rag to remove all dust and oils.

Mix 2 tsp. of clear craft glue with 6 drops of antique gold metallic acrylic paint. Brush a thin coat of paint onto the back side of the glass, from top to bottom. Allow the paint to puddle a little at random intervals and at the bottom edge.

Add a few drops of bronze metallic acrylic paint to the gold mixture and mix well. Apply a second thin coat of paint over the first, again brushing from top to bottom. Allow the bronzed paint to flow in an uneven coat over the gold, following the natural mottled look of a mica lampshade. Allow to dry completely.

Lightly scuff the shiny brass finish of the chandelier with 180-grit sandpaper. Wipe with a tack cloth to remove all dust.

Mask the electrical connections and bulb holders with painter's tape.

Paint the chandelier and its chain with a dark bronze spray paint. Spray using light, even strokes over the entire surface of the chandelier. Apply three coats of paint, allowing to dry between coats according to the manufacturer's directions.

Insert the glass panels back into the chandelier. Replace the original light bulbs with soft white or amber bulbs.

Hang the chandelier in the desired location.