Antique chandeliers might have metal and crystal parts that are in good condition, but if has lampshades, they are probably very worn out and dated. After you restore a chandelier by cleaning it thoroughly, you can update an old chandelier by installing little lampshades on each light bulb. It creates a dim, romantic effect in any room. The lampshades are inexpensive and can be found online or in lighting stores. You can even buy lampshades to match the color palate in the room! Lampshades can work on almost any chandelier. Examine yours to see what type of bulb and size of lampshade you need before you start shopping.
1. Turn off the circuit breaker and remove your chandelier from the ceiling. You may need another person to help you if the chandelier is big or heavy. Remove any old light bulbs from it and dispose of them. While the chandelier is on the ground, wipe it down with a damp cloth. Also wash any dusty crystals or components.
2. Replace your chandelier’s light bulbs with small bulbs that are no more than 40 watts. Any hotter than this and you are risking a fire hazard with the lampshades. You can choose from “candle” shaped bulbs or “golf ball” shapes.
3. Buy shades that will fit over your bulbs. The ones for chandeliers are usually seven inches.
4. If you bought the “clip on” style shade, push it onto the bulb until it sits in place. Be careful when you’re pushing it down, because small bulbs are quite fragile. “Gimbel” shades fit over the ring on the bottom of the bulb, so you will have to screw on the bulb after you set the lampshade into place.
5. One tip is to add colored glass or crystal accents to the chandelier to make it look more creative.
Tags: antique chandeliers, chandelier, lampshade, lampshades, light bulb, light bulbs, Shades,