How to Get New Lamps for FREE!

It's so easy to take something outdated and make it new again for almost nothing. All you need is a little bit of paint and a little time (just a little, I promise).

My client found these lamps on a free FaceBook Marketplace site. They're in very good condition, but they don't match her french countryside decor. We decided to give them a distressed look with linen white chalk paint.

The process was simple. First I taped off the cord and socket to make sure I didn't get any paint on them. Then I painted them with Rust-Oleum Chalked Spray Paint in Linen White. It took about 4 coats to get the coverage I wanted.

Hint: it's much better to spray several very light coats rather than fewer heavy coats. Lighter coats will avoid drips and uneven bumps.

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Once the paint was fully dry (I let it dry overnight), I lightly sanded them on any raised edges that would naturally wear over time. Be careful not to take off too much of the paint.

Next, I wiped the lamps down to remove any dust from the sandpaper. Any leftover dust will keep the topcoat from adhering and will cause bumps. Then I sprayed a few light coats of a clear sealer to help the new finish last longer. I used Rust-Oleum Matte Finish Clear Protective Finish, but you can also use Rust-Oleum Chalked Protective Topcoat in Matte Clear. I prefer the matte finish as it lends itself well to the distressed appearance I was going for. Add 3 to 4 light coats of the topcoat to give it enough coverage to protect the paint.

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The end result is a distressed matte finish and lamps that look like they're right out of a Pottery Barn catalog. Refresh them even further with new lampshades.

If you have furnishings that you'd rather upcycle than replace, give us a call. We'll transform your pieces without breaking the bank.