How To Paint Old Candlesticks For A Fresh New Look

Old candlestick holders lose their finish over time when they're boxed up with other décors and stashed in the garage. They get damaged if they're not on display year-round or well-taken care of. You might use them a couple of times throughout the year for major holidays, and usually, they can get away with a good scrub or wipe down. However, you can make your old candlesticks look brand new with a fresh coat of paint or restore them to their original finish. For example, using Citristrip and aging the brass on vintage brass candlesticks will give them a sleek finish.

After all, buying new vintage candle holders every time there's an event, holiday, or get-together coming up can be expensive for your wallet. Thrift stores will occasionally sell vintage candlestick sets, but, of course, every location is different, and they won't always be available. The set won't be complete if shoppers are looking for a single candlestick. So, continuously using a set you already have will make decorating easier. You'll also love their restored look and want to showcase them as part of your home décor.

With the old candlesticks you have around the house, you can decide how you want them to look — either you enjoy the tarnished appeal or you prefer them shiny. Of course, the choice also depends on how often you clean them to keep their look.

To restore vintage brass candlesticks and make them look shiny and new, you need Citristrip, "000" steel wool, 16 ounces of hydrogen peroxide, 2 ounces of white vinegar, ½ tablespoon of salt, a container, and a brush. Start by using a rubber brush to apply a coat of Citristip on the candlesticks — it'll remove the varnish and bring the original finish to the surface. Only use the Citristrip to get the tarnished look if you don't want a shiny, sparkly appeal.

If not, you'll want to age the brass once the Citristrip has dried — sand down the brass with the "000" steel wool. Next, brush a layer of white vinegar on the candlesticks and let it completely dry. The candlesticks may take up to two hours to dry. In the meantime, mix the hydrogen peroxide, white vinegar, and salt in a container. Once the candlesticks have dried, brush the mixture on the candles. The metal will start turning a different color, which you can control by adding more liquid or leaving it after one coat. Finally, rinse the candlesticks in water and let them dry.

Vintage brass candlesticks complement many home interior styles, be it a rustic farmhouse, mid-century modern, shabby chic, French country, or boho chic. Don't be afraid to mix metal finishes or styles in your home — it's an excellent way to add character and charm to your space. For example, mix vintage brass with polished nickel for an elegant appeal. Some designers recommend mixing two to three metals in a room, so black is a great contender if you want a neutral metal. Use brass, polished nickel, and black metals in your kitchen for a timeless interior.

You'll be so proud of how your candlesticks turn out, you'll want to have them on display daily. Decorating with candlesticks elevates every room. If you have a modern home with antique décor, showcase your candlesticks in your living room. They'll look perfect sitting atop a mantel surrounded by other antique trinkets. Or place a couple of candlesticks on a vintage tray in the center of a coffee table and another couple on a side table to spread them around the room. You can also place the candlesticks in the center of your dining table — they'll complement any wood or antique furniture, like a china cabinet.