Oh, happy day! It’s a new day, a new adventure awaits, and I’m eager to spend this time with you. My hope is that no matter what you are facing, that you find a moment to choose joy. Today, I’m trying to make the most of the time I have while also getting to do what I enjoy…DIY. It’s funny that I’ve always been told over the years, “you should make these” or “you could sell tons of those”. Problem is that I don’t want to be a machine reproducing the same thing over and over. However, I prefer to let my adventures change with a fluid flow. Take, for instance, this set of thrifted candlesticks. They found me and I intend to dress them down a bit.

Aren’t they a tad gaudy? {{cringing teeth}}. I will say, though, that in the right place they would do just fine. For me, this is a perfect time to show you what can become of your decor if you want to change it up with little effort. Are you ready for that new DIY adventure? Let’s go!

CLEANING TIME

As with any project that involves paint (and you know this will…hee hee), you need to prep your surface. First, because these thrift store candle holders have sat in someone’s home for many years, they need a sprucing up. Those nooks and crannies love to hold dirt, grime, and wax.

These are designed for pillar candles, but you can use them for anything your heart desires.

As with any project that involves paint (and you know this will…hee hee), you need to prep your surface. First, because these thrift store candle holders have sat in someone’s home, and they need a sprucing up. Those nooks and crannies love to hold dirt, grim, and wax. Using old toothbrushes are great for this type of cleaning. You can either do a dry cleaning (as I am) or use a 2:1 water/vinegar mix.

In addition, if you find cooled wax, you can use a hair dryer to warm it up and remove it gently.

So far, it’s an easy project, right? Well, it’s going to be even easier than you think with a little paint.

VINTAGE STYLE

Next, it’s time to update this great find. At this point you can choose to brush paint, spray paint, or even use decoupage and the like. I’m choosing to use this variation of muted tones. We’ve got Nutmeg, Rustic Pink, and Smokey Beige. My inspiration for these colors comes from my limelight hydrangeas.

To begin, I simple set up a spray station and have at it using my thrifted turntable. In this instance, I only apply one coat and let cure. That way, the base color can peek through giving an aged antique effect.

Which color catches your eye? I’m smitten with all three! Especially because the gaudy level has gone from 10 to 1.

Last, but not least, I want to create more texture and dimension using colored waxes. On some I use white, on others I use brown.

With that in mind, peek at this video tutorial below to see this easy DIY project in action on upcycled candle holders and a few other thrifted finds.

BLUSH AND BEAUTIFUL

Finally, my thrifted candlesticks makeover is complete with a soft, new look that’s perfect for autumn joy.

Not only do those soft colors have me swooning, but also my dollar store candle vases have just the right amount of bling. The glass vases have a soft gold on the inside bottom for gorgeous reflections. Pictures never say enough, right?

I’m curious…which color is your favorite? That Rustic Pink for sure, but the Nutmeg reminds me of the mirrored medicine cabinet I did not too long ago.

SHARE IN LOVE

As with all my projects, my goal is to not only inspire you, but light that DIY fire that has you feeling creative and fulfilled. Before you go, leave me some comment below on what you’d do with this set. In addition, pin and share to inspire others too!

Wait! Be sure to sign up for my FREE newsletter to check out what becomes of this giant wall clock. tick tock!

Until next time!

Also, more creative adventures like this thrifted candlesticks makeover: