Free and Fast Lamp Makeover

Operation Family Room Update is still in the works! I thought I'd share "phase 2" with you guys today (phase 1 being the new coffee table) because this is definitely an ongoing process. I'm in love with my new-old lamps, and the makeover was easy as pie. The best part is...it didn't cost me a dime!

T went to help his grandmother move into a new home last weekend, and when they heard the girls and I were on the road to IKEA for new lamps, they offered me two matching ones from Grandmommy's living room. I think that T's generosity in bringing the lamps home was mostly motivated by the desire to keep me from spending any money at IKEA.

He texted me a photo of the lamps, and I agreed that they would work really well in the room.

My original plan was to pick up a pair of glass lamps from IKEA, but at $59.99 per lamp, T's option was a much better choice! Brass wasn't the finish I wanted, but you guys know I've never been afraid of a little spray paint.

I've actually never spray painted a lamp before this project; can you believe it? It was definitely as easy as everyone says it is, and I won't be scared to try a little spray paint action on other light fixtures from now on.

My spray paint of choice lately is Krylon's Dual Paint and Primer (this post is not sponsored, but I like to give a shout-out when I love a product!). It gives really great coverage, and a smooth finish. I had to do several coats because I ended up working on a windy day (blech), but I was so pleased with the finished products! I opted for black paint this time....

First, I sanded each lamp down a bit with some sandpaper, and cleaned them off really well. Then I taped off the top of the lamps, the switches, and the top part of the cords with painter's tape. After several coats of the Krylon, this is what I had:

The lamps were missing the protective covering under their bases, so I traced them and cut out circles of posterboard to keep them from scratching surfaces. The posterboard was adhered with a quick line of hot glue:

T brought the shades home along with the lamps too. I may opt for drum shades later on, try to recover them in a fun fabric, or add some ribbon or something for embellishment. But for now, I'm enjoying a nice, clean look!

I can't wait to show you phase 3 in Operation Family Room Update...I'm rolling along with my 2012 Home Goals, and the space is slowly coming together. It already feels homier, and more "me."

I don't mind sharing little updates with you guys, because I know many of you are also on budgets in this tough economy. We can't all afford to run out to our favorite stores and pick up new furniture or accessories on a whim. And I refuse to put things on a credit card and go into debt to impress other people. If there's one thing I've learned from blogging, it's that repurposing thrifty finds can really make you think outside the box and be more creative.

Cost of Lamps: Free
Cost of Supplies: Free (had on hand)
Cost of having a Family room I feel more comfortable in: Priceless


Have you completed any thrifty makeovers lately?


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