How to Paint Light Fixtures

This is an article on how to paint a light fixture. Read here to learn how to paint a light fixture without taking it down, including how to choose the right paint and apply it.
Written by Elan Mcafee
Reviewed by Carrie Adkins
Painting a light fixture is simple with a few materials and a quick setup, and you can even paint your light fixture without taking it down.
If you're looking for a way to spruce up your home without blowing your budget, it may be worth updating your current fixtures instead of opting for new fixtures.
Light fixtures don't come cheap, and to properly install one, you'll probably need to enlist the help of a professional electrician. So, before making the costly decision to purchase new lighting, consider if a new paint job might give you the results you're after.
Here's a step-by-step guide by
Jerry
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1. Choose your paint type

First, you're going to need to choose a paint type.
Spray paint is a good way to create a coat free of brush marks. You also might consider a paint and primer product, which reduces the number of coats required.
However, the best paint to use if you want to paint your fixture without taking it down is chalk paint. Chalk paint is great for creating a tarnished or shabby chic look, without the effort of getting the material refinished.
Whatever your choice, remember to research the paints you intend to use to make sure they can be applied to the fixture’s material.

2. Select a paint color

Choosing a paint color
is fun, but it should not be a process taken lightly.
Ask yourself if you're trying to subdue your light fixture (this might be the case if you're trying to spruce up a garish antique piece) or make it pop.
If you're trying to subdue your light fixture, you might consider painting it a similar color to the ceiling or a color that won’t stand out in your current space. Whereas if you're trying to make your fixture pop, you should consider a bolder color.
MORE: How to plan a kitchen renovation

3. Set up your workspace

Once you've purchased all your materials, you're ready to start setting up your workspace.
Assuming that you've chosen to work with chalk paint, you won't need to worry about overspray.
Remove your furniture from the vicinity and cover the floor below with a drop cloth. Use painter's tape to secure newspaper or plastic sheeting around the base of the light fixture.

4. Clean your light fixture

Remove the casing and light bulbs. If your light fixture has a million little pieces, it's a good idea to take a quick photo so you can easily put it back together.
Gently wash casings in warm water and dish soap and leave to air dry. Using a damp microfiber cloth, wipe away dust from the light fixture's surface.

5. Paint light fixtures

Now it's time to get down to business.
Use a small paintbrush to apply small up and down strokes with the chalk paint. Make sure you don't miss any nooks or crannies.
Allow the first coat to dry according to the instructions, then apply a second coat. Keep in mind, two coats are usually sufficient. However, it's better to apply multiple light coats than one or two heavy coats.

6. Put it back together

Now it's time to remove the drop cloth and put your fixture back together.
Just like that, you've turned your old light fixture into something new! All it took was a few light coats of paint and some elbow grease.
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