You would think that after all these years that I have been doing #trashure hunting and fleatiquing I would be used to finding a diamond in the rough, right? Maybe I should be sorta numb by now to coming upon a rare treat. Thankfully, that doesn’t happen and I still get a jolt when I see things like this set of thrifted candelabras while on an errand.
Here’s the story as it played out. My kids and I walked into the store and I instantly saw this pair displayed on a table. They are in the middle of the store and I have to wait until some people moved out of the way to be able to get close to them. My brain is saying, “Please don’t see them, I saw them first!” haha. Doesn’t that seem like an eternity to get to your the pieces the were destined for you??
DIY TIME
I finally reached them and made sure my kids were still with me as I made a bee-line to these thrifted candelabras. On first inspection I was disappointed. The crystals were plastic and had an amber color to them from age. That threw me off completely. Meh.
I decided to move on because I had enough “stash” at home and didn’t need another set of candelabras for my home. Yes, a girl should have plenty…just sayin’. It was then I went upon my merry way picking up a few other items while waiting for my kids to have a look around.
NEXT STEPS
It was time to leave and as I was checking out, I threw these thrifted candelabras a second glance. I told the cashier to hang on one second as I walked over to look at them once more. I picked one up and couldn’t get past how nice and heavy they were, and then I noticed that the flower-shaped candle holders were actually glass! (and the angels sang). I quickly told the cashier, “I’ll take them”, and proudly carried them to the register.
Whew!! That was a close call wasn’t it? And to make it all better, she proceeded to tell me how many people had looked at those since they had set them out the day before. The victory dance in my head just went ballistic. mwahahaha…
Okay, so before you think I’m completely off my rocker (because I am ya know, and that’s what makes this fun), I at least can say I saw potential and am a willing soul. So…here we go on a makeover of these thrifted gems. I kinda liked the creamy color until I looked closer. Like I mentioned before it seemed the faux crystals had ambered, but really they were just dirty. The whole thing had ambered and was looking kinda blucky rather than patina. I began to take it apart to clean and prepare it for a fresh look.
CLEANING
I took off each set of crystals and carefully cleaned them and even buffed them with my Dremel. They still had scratches and such, but what a difference that cleaning made! Time-consuming, but worth it to see them shine.
Once I cleaned the candelabras and prepped them for paint, it’s now time for the fun part. yeehaw! I debated on painting them several different colors, but I couldn’t get past the pretty white that peeked out when I took it all apart. That was the original color, so I decided to got back to that.
PAINT
I set up my spray shelter and set the candelabra on my lazy susan wrapped in newspaper. Makes for easy access to all sides at the same time.
Spraying was easy and I used two light coats of a white semi-gloss spray paint. Simple enough, right?
I reassemble and voila!
They look refreshed and ready to go to a new home, don’t they? Yep, I’m not keeping them because, as I mentioned before, I have plenty as it is. They seriously would look awesome on top of my upright grand piano, but I already have a silver one I love. So…they’re up for grabs in my online shop.
Magic Linen Waffle Blanket ~ $130
Paint is a wonderful thing when used in the right way. I feel these thrifted candelabras are much brighter and ready to set the stage in someone’s home. My favorite is when the sun shines, all those faceted faces sprinkle my walls with bits of sunshine.
THE REVEAL
So there you go. Another fun find and redo and I hope this inspires you to refresh your decor instead of replacing. Sometimes shopping your home can be even more fun than the store (cheaper too!)
Okay, so a week ago I promised to have a double giveaway and I just couldn’t get it together in time. Today’s the day! {{applause}} You guys are why I do what I do, right? Well, over two years ago I won a contest for my Ikea hack and the prize was hardware for an entire room of my choice. Little did I know at the time that my kitchen would take over 2 years to complete and I would change my mind on what hardware I wanted. I know, I know, big surprise, right? Instead of me selling the hardware I decided to pay it forward and give it to two of you. I seriously wish I could give each and every one of you something!!
MY HEART
I do want to say that sometimes I am sad about doing giveaways because I only hear from some of you when there is a prize offered, and you have to comment. I don’t want it to be that way. This is my “home” where I share my heart and family with you and love to hear from you on any and all occasions. Sometimes this work gets so hard I want to quit and go back to my normal self, but I get that one comment, email, or little note from you that keeps me going. Thank you.
GIVEAWAY
So, here goes… you can enter both giveaways, but can only win one. Open to U.S. residents 18 years of age and older. If I could I would open this up to the world, but mama ain’t got that kind of shipping cash. Just fill out the widget below each prize completing entries to win (daily even). Winner will be notified via email and will have 24 hours to claim their prize. Be sure to check your spam!!
Two lots are up for grabs:
Hickory Hardware Hinges in Antique Brass ~ Lot of 42
value $200
Hickory Hardware Crysalic Knobs ~ Lot of 24
value $95
SHARE
I’m so excited for this and can’t wait to see who wins! Do pin and share these thrifted candelabras to inspire others to give DIY projects a try. You never know when someone will be needing that push to get going.
Up next is Trash to Treasure Tuesday and this table I scored at the same thrift store on a different mission is about to get new life. See the after HERE. Be sure to sign up for my newsletter. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!
See you soon!
More DIY projects like my thrifted candelabras:
Larissa, these candelabras are magnificent! I’m glad you snapped them up and gave them new life. 🙂 Love that you kept them white, they are gorgeous.
I hope you don’t mind me not entering the giveaways. I’ll leave those to peeps who have a plan for them. 🙂
Thanks, girl! Absolutely understandable as these may not fit in everyone’s home or style. I’m just happy to share.
Wow those are amazing but of course every makeover you do is fabulous
You’re so sweet, Janet. Thank you.
Your creativity and vision are wonderful. You inspire so many. Thanks for all you do Larissa! Thanks for sharing with us all! I have a favorite resale shop I frequent often. The owner is a wonderful lady with an old soul. She will do resale for you or purchase from you for her shop. It depends on what you or she needs at the time. I pay it forward by giving her items that she can use for her shop without expecting anything in return. She gives so much of herself to others…it’s the least I can do. When she does refuse and insists on purchasing, I re-invest in her shop. Like you Larissa, she is very creative and caring.
That is an awesome gift to give her. Kudos to you for making a difference, Dana!
Love everything you do!
Thank you, Karen!
I’m not entering the contest this time, because I don’t really have a need for these and I want someone who could really use them to win, but I wanted to pause for a moment to tell you how sweet you are and how much I truly enjoy your work! You brighten my days with your sunshine! Thank you so much! ❤️
Thank you, Michelle. I absolutely appreciate it!
So cute! I love when sunshine hits crystals and dances rainbows on the wall! I love reading about your makeovers!
Makes me smile!
I was sorry to hear you feel discouraged sometimes (but then I suppose that’s the human condition). Your makeovers always delight me. You have such a great eye and are so creative. I love that you are teaching your children valuable skills. I get a kick out of your saying “tools over jewels”. Keep up the great work. Even when I don’t post a comment, I am reading and learning!
Just a little defeating to work hard and someone only is interested in the giveaway – that’s a human condition for sure. hahaha. Thanks so much, Liz!
What a find! Haha, I do the “Please don’t see that, please don’t see that!” prayer while thrifting too! I love how your candelabra came out. I can’t imagine how much time polishing those crystals took though! Beautiful work!
I apologize for the silent readers out there. I was one when I first discovered blogs. I was afraid to put something permanent out there for the world to see. My husband has a “don’t just be a taker, GIVE too” rule though, and I have a rule about “if you have something nice to say; SAY IT!” (the reverse of “if you have nothing nice to say, shut up!”, haha), and so I started commenting. I have a small blog for our extended families to keep up with our doings, and yes, even in that situation: no comments! I can blog for MONTHS without a single comment. When I see my readers face to face they tell me they love my blog, but somehow it’s not quiiiiiite the same. : S
Have a happy day!
You are my kinda gal!! Yes, you totally get what I mean, Becky. Thank you for getting it! 😀
You have an amazing eye for the beauty behind your finds. I’m always inspired when I visit your blog.
Thank you for the love, Bobye!
I have so many projects in my mind I will be lucky to ever get them all done. Bitter cold in South Carolina too. Maybe will keep the bugs down in summer. I look forward to your posts and we who enjoy you are out here so feel the love. God bless.
I hear ya! I feel the same even thought I’ve cut waaaay back. It feels good to get ahead. Hugs!
I enjoy your makeovers so much… such an inspiration! I would use these pretty knobs to add some sparkle to a dresser I’m doing for my niece.
That would be wonderful!
Larissa, I don’t take the time to comment often but please know that I really enjoy reading your posts. I’m so glad that you use your talents to bring “beauty out of ashes” and that you share your personal stories and your faith.
You are true blue, Bonnie. Thank you so much for your everlasting support. 🙂
Larissa, I’m sorry that you are disappointed sometimes by the lack of comments. I try to comment on something that really catches my eye, but I know I don’t comment every time. Some days, I admit, I’m just a reader. But I do love telling people how beautiful their projects are,and will try do to this more often. You did a grand job on the candelabras! If I had a place to sell, I would have put them into my shopping basket, too! I have been wanting to refinish our kitchen cabinets for years and these would be lovely to win. I would absolutely go nuts over the clear knobs! As for paying it forward…I’m a random act of kindness type of gal, and pray to be put into a place where I can do something for others. So, although I can’t state a specific act, I will always look forward to the next time I can do for others. Like you, I’m a curb-shopper, and a few years ago I started picking up things for the Center For Refugee Services in San Antonio. These people have come to America with absolutely nothing but their families, and they need everything to set up housekeeping. All furniture, household items, and last month, blankets and coats for the cold weather. Yesterday I took my printer to the caseworker that I always meet with. Someone needed it and I had it, so off it went! A few weeks ago I found a room-size rug in the trash. took it home, cleaned it with a pressure washer, and it went to a family that needed it. I’m always on the lookout for usable items sitting on the side of the road.
That is so awesome to hear, Patty! It truly blesses us and those around us when we go the extra mile. Keep on keepin’ on, girl!
Love the candelabra makeover. Shows what you might find under a good cleaning and sprucing up!
Yes, you just never know. Half the fun too!
I just love all of your projects. You are so talented. GOD has given you a wonderful talent
Thank you for making my day, Annie. Hugs!!
I so enjoy your blog and learn a lot from you, so thanks! I would love to win the knobs, my daughters house burned down and I would give them to her for a kitchen rebuilding
I do not comment often but always read your blog. I love that you’re teaching your children great lessons like new is not always the only way to have something nice!
I do the same on other blogger’s blog and have to remind myself to stop and say something. Thank you so much for the awesome support you give, Regina!
Larissa, these are beautiful! I’m so glad you took a second look!
My daughter and I recently drove back to Louisiana from Virginia, stopping at various antique malls on the way back (up until 5 pm when they were all closed). Wish we had more time and money! Some places had items that were overpriced, but for the most part, prices were reasonable. We both found some nice things! I am looking forward to repurposing them…thanks for your inspiration!
I’m so glad I did too! Thank you so much for the kind words. Sounds like you had a blast!
If I win the knobs I will use them on a chest of drawers that my sister & I made over for our mother. We painted the chest a gorgeous charcoal gray & the knobs will look beautiful on it!
Sounds good!
These are gorgeous!!! I love them!!!
I’m delighted to hear it, Maria. Thank you!
Hi Larissa! Those hinges look like the ones I used to spruce up a Hoosier! Would love to have these for future projects!
Love reading your stories and experiences!
Cathy Hensley
Hi Larissa! I seem to come across dressing tables or dressers that just need that little touch for a little girl. These knobs are perfect for these projects! Keep up the good work! Love reading your blog!
Absolutely great idea! I debated on keeping them for that, but really wanted to share with someone. Hope it’s you!
I am shocked again at what you find and do with it. The candelabras are beautiful again and I am impressed! Thanks for the giveaway!
I seriously think they find me…hahaha. Glad they do! Thank you, Rebecca.
Loved the makeover, they turned out really gorgeous. I would use the hinges I could and donate the rest to a local place that is all volunteer and all of the proceeds go directly to 3 local food pantries.
Thanks! That sounds like an awesome way to be. Hope you win!
Love the candelabra. Great job! Could certainly use either or both the hinges and the knobs in my kitchen. I have plans to do a small makeover in there, and the hardware will be the first to go!
Wonderful!! I was hoping someone could use them.
The knobs are gorgeous!
I have plenty of craft items I could gather up and send off into the world. Sharing is what it’s all about!
You are so right!
Thank you!
The candelabras are so Pretty! I love everything that you do!
You deserve a hug, Ginny! {{HUG}} 😀
Love the candelabras, and the table they are sitting on. I love looking at your blog you are very talented.
Thank you so much for saying so. I’m happy to hear it!
Once again, beautiful job ! It’s amazing what a little elbow grease and a coat of paint can achieve !!!
Ain’t nothin’ better. woot!! 😀
The candelabras are gorgeous!! And I love that table!! I contemplated ordering it last week after ordered the chair, but wasn’t sure if I needed it. ? Thank you, Larissa, for offering this giveaway. You are too kind!
Thank you so much! I wish I needed it. 😉
Hi Larissa, do not need the candelabras, but just wanted you to know that I love your site and am excited to see what you have done, every time you post. Keep up the good work! Happy New and all the best!
Thank you, Darlene. Happy to hear it! 😀
I love your enthusiasm and Sassy attitude!! LOL!! I can’t believe how sparkling you got those plastic “crystals”. They look amazing! I so would have bought them!! Next time! Thanks for all your tutorials, giveaways and general information!!
wahoo!! You made me giggle! Thank you so much, Hanna.
Love the candleabras – they are so gorgeous! Another wonderful makeover job. You are so talented and such an inspiration! I’m always waiting for your next post to see what creation you’ve come up with! Thanks for the giveaway.
My absolute pleasure, Debra. Thank you!
OMG I love what you did with these candelabras! I have some that I was t sure what I was doing with them but now I know!
Sweet! I’m so tickled to hear your kind words. Thank you!
Hi Larissa, I would have grabbed these babies up too! What a beautiful thing good ole spray paint is!!! When I see strands or even the extra loose crystals and bobches I pick those up as well! If they aren’t crystal, I use them to dress up outdoor/solar chandeliers that I upcycle. My favorite candelabras in my home are also silver ones.
I knew I wasn’t alone! hahaha… That is awesome, Kaycee!
Hi Larissa – I don’t comment on every post either – just on the ones I really love or just want to comment. Sometimes I am just really in a hurry but I want to see everything. When it something I want to get a better look at, I save the email until I have more time. I love the candelabras and love that you kept them white. I also hav4 a question for you. I am trying to simplify things a little bit as I am 68 and not in the best of health. I hav4e some really nice things that I purchased and also quite a few things from my parents (their original mahogany bedroom furniture for example). I also have a pair of brass candelabras that are similar to yours and you can also remove the side pieces so they are single brass candlesticks. They were a wedding gift to my parents from my mom’s youngest sister (my favorite aunt) and I have used them a lot in the past but don’t anymore as I just don’t care for the brass. I also have an oval shaped, ornate planter made of brass too that was part of the gift. My son lives n my house with me and we share expenses. He has also done a lot of additions, upgrades, etc. to the house and at 47, I don’t think he has any intentions of getting married (was engaged twice but..). We live in the boonies and love our dogs – house is on 3 1/2 acres, which he also loves. I pretty much know what he wants and I know my daughter has a few things but she doesn’t want clutter, my wedgwood wedding china, or much of anything else except maybe the bedroom furniture. We pretty much have opposite taste so I am pretty sure she will never want the brass candelabras. I doubt if they would sell for much so am thinking of painting them white like you did these (I will check with her again before I do and also my 19 year old granddaughter). They have some sentimental value but I haven’t had them out in many years so they either need to be made pretty so I will use them or sold/given away. What is your opinion about this? You have beautiful taste and I trust your judgment. Thanks! Carol
Sounds like you have quite a wonderful family. As for the brass, you could always do an enhancement like Rub n’ Buff. You can lighten or deepen the color without completely altering the brass if you’re concerned about the value. You can see how I’ve used it to update my brass hardware in this post. Or, they’re yours and paint away! 😀
I love the candelabras! If I won either the hinges or the knobs, I have someone who does a lot of furniture rehab who would love to have me share some with her.
Sounds like a perfect plan. 😉
Absolutely beautiful! You reminded me that I need to get a spray shelter!
Thanks! You will LOVE it.
WOW, WOW, WOW…what a fabulous find!!! You have the best luck with some of your finds. And I love the way you include your kiddoes in your projects and encourage them to experience their own. Your abilities and energy are amazing and inspiring, thank you for sharing with all of us.
In the final picture of this project, you’ve displayed them on a beautiful table re-do. I love those curtains behind the table. Are they drop cloths, did you make them?
I am so happy I can share with you. Thanks, Becky! The curtains are from the thrift store as well. Perfect fit for what I needed.
Aren’t you glad you went back for them? They are gorgeous! Are you keeping them, Larissa? You may already know this tip but I thought I’d put it out there just in case. When I was staging homes in the real estate market we would meticulously take apart chandeliers and put the crystals in a mesh laundry bag and then wash them and the glass shades in the dishwasher under the china setting and they came out beautifully. The hardest part was studying our cell phone photos to see how to put them back together again.
Yes!! They actually found a new home fast and that’s a good thing because need another candelabra like I need another hole in my head. hahaha… Yes, I’ve heard that trick but don’t have a dishwasher other than myself and my kids.
Wow! I have exactly the same candelabra – my mom spotted it at a thrift store and informed me that she had something for me (ha ha… yes, mom also has a ‘thrift eye’ too)
Only difference is, mine is black and has the original crystals – I wonder where they originate from (I live in S-Africa)? Thanks for an idea; will definitely put it on my to do list!
Go Mom!! hahaha…That’s awesome! Sweet to hear you had real crystals. My set was made in China. 🙂
These are gorgeous! Nice score, Larissa! 🙂
Thanks for saying so, Stephanie. I had fun!
Oh Larissa, what a beautiful gift you have! I get so much joy reading and seeing your “trashure” adventures. The tableau you set with the Degas print is spot-on perfection! Now the candleabra will be able to have another season of making someone happy. Great work!
How fun! I truly appreciate you kind words and love, Kathy. Thanks!