Ideas for Updating an Old Chandelier

Spray Paint

• One of the easiest ways to update an old chandelier is to cover it with a coat of spray paint. Spray paint can be particularly effective if the chandelier has a shiny gold finish that gives it a dated look. Spray paint outdoors or in a garage with newspaper or cardboard below the chandelier to catch any drips. Before painting a chandelier, cover all electrical components with painter's tape. For best results, hang it so you can cover all of the surfaces with an even coat of paint. Use a spray primer as well, particularly if the chandelier is made from metal. When the primer is dry, spray the chandelier with paint in your color of choice. Black or white paint can create a sleek, modern look while brighter shades like red, blue or yellow can give the chandelier a funky look.

Shades

• Another simple way to update the look of your chandelier is to change or add shades. If the chandelier features individual stems that already hold small shades, changing their color and material can make a significant difference in the chandelier's appearance. Try shades in a bold, rich color like wine, chocolate brown or plum to add a feeling of sophistication to the fixture. Using shades made from a material with a sheen such as satin can give it a more elegant look as well. However, bright colors like red, orange or green are an attractive option if you prefer a bolder look for your room. An old chandelier that does not already have shades may be covered with a single large shade to give it a new look. Use a neutral-colored shade in a classic material like linen to give an ornate, formal style chandelier a more modern appearance.

Crystals and Beads

• Many chandeliers feature hanging crystals or beads, so changing them can give a fixture an entirely new look. Remove all of the old crystals, and replace them with new ones in a more modern shape or an interesting color. If your chandelier does not already have crystals, you can add them as well, or weave strands of beads through its stems to dress it up.

Bulbs

• The light bulbs in an old chandelier may seem like a minor detail, but if they are not covered by shades, they can affect the overall look of the fixture. Chandelier bulbs come in a variety of shapes and styles, ranging from those that resemble candle flames to round orbs. Candle flame bulbs tend to have a more formal feel while rounded bulbs can give the chandelier a modern look. Visit your local home improvement or hardware store to find a shape that complements the decor in the rest of the room.