Sunday, February 7, 2010

Retro Glamour

What do 2 embroidery hoops, some used Christmas garland, metallic craft paint and fishing line have in common?
They are the key "ingredients" I used to make my newest retro-inspired lighting feature for my office makeover--
This was truly a project inspired by necessity (as in I don't have enough money to do what I want, so I better figure out Plan B!). My original lighting concept for the room involved swing arm sconces. I've been lusting after the sconces showcased at Pottery Barn, and was desperately trying to figure out a way to get my hands on one or two of them.
However, Pottery Barn swing arm sconces exceeded my budget for this little room renovation, and I was hesitant to ask for them for my birthday. Lighting is fun and all...but for a birthday? Snooze....
Furthermore, though sconces are lovely, they lack a certain retro sparkle that I was secretly dreaming of. Hidden behind my utilitarian convictions was a desire for shimmer and glamor, reminiscent of vintage Hollywood.
Thus, with a little creative willpower I was able to craft this beautiful pendant out of some very simple and inexpensive items. The strands of faux pearls are Christmas garlands that have adorned our holiday tree for 7 years (in other words, they were basically free, and another great example of repurposing something I already own!), and they are attached to two embroidery hoops using basic craft wire. A lighting kit furnished by Pier 1 for $10, and some nifty fishing wire paired to create the necessary suspension, and Voila! retro glam achieved!
The final flourish, I think, might be some sparkly sequined touches, but more on that later!

I'll most likely be listing this lighting project as one of my PDF patterns shortly, so stay tuned if you're interested in more detailed instructions!

Until then--happy Sunday!



4 comments:

  1. Great chandelier! And enhanced by your corner placement with shadows cast on two walls! Can't wait for the pattern.

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  2. Thank you! I'm just thrilled that a) it worked, and b) it cost me less than $20.00! Now for those sequins...

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  3. That lamp is amazing !!! Very glamourous ! Thanks for adding me to your blogroll by the way, I'm so glad you like my little blog !

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  4. You are so welcome! I do LOVE your blog. The projects are so stylish (I made a copy of your faux bois stag head during the holiday season!), and it just makes me want to speak french... Cheers!

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