Easy Thrifted Lamp Makeover

First, the lamp

You need to have an idea of what you want before going thrifting. So I studied and make screen shots of the lamps I liked.

Some times, I think “this was meant to be”! I walked right into my local Goodwill and immediately spotted this lamp.

Thrifted Lamp Makeover

The first step, is to add some texture. One of the easiest ways to do this is to use Rust-oleum Textured Spray Paint to cover the entire surface.

I was planning as I went but here are the things I used.

• Rust-oleum Textured Spray Paint
• Plaster of Paris
• Chalk Paint – 3 colors of your choice
• Finishing Wax Dark & Clear or Satin Clear Sealant
• Plastic Spatula or trowel
• Chip Brushes
• Small Metal Trowel
• Fine Grit Sandpaper

Using a chip brush add a thin layer of Plaster of Paris over the entire surface and let dry.

Next, using the plastic spatula apply a coat of thicker plaster over the entire surface.

Then, once the plaster is set, you can use a light grit sand paper to smooth any rough edges.

It’s best to do this while the plaster is still drying because it’s easier to work with and you avoid all the dust. I sanded after the plaster had set for approx. 20 minutes.

The next step will depend on what exact finish you like. I had two different inspiration lamps in mind as I worked on this project. One from Pottery Barn with all the texture and the other from Anthropologie with the colors. So I did a mix of both.

I painted the base with Graphite Chalk Paint. From there up to just over 1/2 way, I used a gray ( French Linen) Chalk Paint.

Then using the Old White Chalk paint, I painted the top and allowed it to bleed down over the French Linen paint.

Finally, you will want to seal the surface of your lamp. I used a mixture of Clear and Dark Annie Sloan Wax because I wanted to allow some of the dark wax to settle into the trowel marks and add depth to the texture of the Plaster of Paris finish.

If you don’t want to darken your lamp, you should use the clear wax alone or use a spray sealant such as Rust-0lenum Clear Sealer in a satin finish.

Thrifted Lamp Makeover Final reveal

How do you like it? I love the texture and the colors. Still not sure about the lamp shade but I have my receipt. LOL

If you'd like some Tips on Successful Thrift Store Shopping, click here.