The right light fixtures can really change the whole mood in a room. Rather than toss your old lamps and fixtures, try these DIY lighting ideas to give them a face lift instead!
Of course, these DIY lighting ideas only address one of the impacts of your lighting situation, right? Sure, you’re keeping waste out of the landfill, but what about the energy that your lamp or light fixture uses when it’s turned on? Switching to a more energy efficient light bulb, like compact fluorescents or LED bulbs, helps conserve energy and save money. These bulbs do cost more than clunky old incandescents, but they last a whole lot longer and help reduce your power bill, so in the end, you save money! Don’t believe me? Check out the math!
Got an old light fixture that needs a revamp and your energy efficient bulbs? Check out our slideshow of DIY lighting ideas to update your decor without buying new!
1. Update a Vintage Chandelier
A chandelier looks so classy in your house or apartment’s foyer, but old hanging fixtures can look a little bit dated. Check out how Bonnie quickly updated a vintage chandelier with a just a few inexpensive supplies!
2. Re-Cover a Hanging Light Fixture
Feeling a little bit more ambitious? I love how Kristina Ackerman at Knuckle Salad revamped her old hanging light fixture. You’ll want a buddy for this project, but the fresh, modern result is so worth the effort!
3. Make a Lace Lamp
Turn a plain glass lamp into a piece of shabby chic decor with some vintage lace and the right sort of glue. You can find my lace lamp tutorial right here!
4. Repair a Torn Lamp Shade
Paper lamp shades are pretty, but they can be so fragile, can’t they? A little tear doesn’t have to mean the end of that lamp shade’s life, though. It’s super simple to repair a torn lamp shade and make it even cuter than before!
Image Credits: photos by Bonnie Getchell and Kristina Ackerman
Cool ideas! Upcycling can be chic and cheap. I also upcycle unusual objects into lamps & lampshades on my site. Check out a lampshade made out of a silk t-shirt and a tripod lamp made out of a drum stand