Thrift Store Light Fixture

Do you ever walk in a room and decide that something has to be changed? Like that very minute? This week I walked in my laundry room to replace the light bulb in the ceiling fixture and decided I had to change the fixture immediately. This black thrift store light fixture is the result and I love the simple difference it makes.

Next to my nasty popcorn ceilings, the light fixture was the worst part of my laundry room. With a gold base and a frosted outdated globe, it just screamed builder’s special.

A year or so ago, I found a couple of brand new metal West Elm pendant shades at Goodwill. For less than two dollars each, I couldn’t resist bringing them home, knowing that I’d eventually find something I needed them for. Despite being pendant lamps, I knew I could rig the shade to fit into the ceiling mount. Because of the small space, doors, and cabinet doors, I didn’t want a pendant light hanging down.

I removed the glass globe from the current light fixture and taped off all around the mount as well as the part that holds the bulb then spray painted it black. Spray painting inside the house isn’t the best idea but I kept the garage door open {leading out of the laundry room} and turned on the laundry room exhaust fan. And held my breath {smile}.

I also taped off the holes in the top of the shade {so paint wouldn’t spray through onto the white inside} and spray painted the outside of the shade black. {I chose black because the cubbies and command center frame in that room are both black so the dark fixture tied in nicely.}

Once the paint was dry, I removed the painter’s tape, slid the shade inside the ceiling mount, and used the screws that held the glass globe in place to hold the new shade in place. I added an edison bulb and the light was back in business.

I now have a very simple but much more stylish fixture and I’m so happy with my simple thrift store light fixture … and super happy with the price!

For more lighting ideas for the home, check out this easy tutorial for installing a new outdoor light fixture and instantly improving your curb appeal …