Revitalize A Thrifted Lamp With A Simple Coat Of Paint

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Trying to find the perfect lamp to accent your space can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. That's why designers say you should always check the thrift store first for lamps: There are usually treasures hiding in plain sight. But sometimes, none of them feel just right. Instead of feeling like the world's pickiest Goldilocks or choosing something you don't love, use a tried-and-true trick to upcycle a thrifted lamp: paint. Paint is one of our favorite mediums to refresh home decor because it can create a completely new look and texture without a lot of effort.

There's a reason this DIY is considered one of the top simple thrift flips you can start and finish in one weekend. All you need is that thrifted lamp (it's okay if you're not head over heels in love with it yet; we'll show you how to get there), some painter's tape, fine-grit sandpaper, brushes, and paint. Simply clean and sand if needed, cover the areas you don't want to paint — like the electrical fixtures — and apply paint to create a whole new look. With the paint and sealant as your only real added costs, this DIY is generally way more budget-friendly than that designer lamp you've been eyeing.

A stroll through the lamp aisle at your local thrift store will reveal there's not only tons of different types of lamps — from task to table to standing — there are a myriad of base materials. So how do you know which paint will actually adhere and last on your DIY? It all comes down to the lamp base material.

If your thrifted lamp has a glass base, look for a glass enamel paint, like Folk Art Enamel Glass & Ceramic Paint. For a ceramic base, ceramic or acrylic paint, such as Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint, will be the most durable. Got a metal base? Paints created just for metal, like Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover Spray Paint, will be your best friend. If the base gets warm when the lamp is in use, choose a paint that can withstand high heat. It's an extra step, but it's worth being safe. Oh, and don't forget the primer — it gives paint the extra grip with slippery metal.

We know that paint can add a new color to a lamp, but did you know it can create a whole new texture? To add shine, apply three thin coats of a high-gloss spray paint suitable for your base, letting dry in between. Apply more coats as needed.

If you're longing for an aged ceramic look, look no further than your pantry. Add a little (or a lot, depending on your desired texture) of baking soda to your paint to create a grittier texture to the lamp. Use a brush to apply it in criss-cross strokes to build up the texture even more. To add a little more depth, use a dry brush to dust flour across the dried paint, and spray with clear sealant to finish.

Perhaps you want the look of the concrete lamp base but you're not sure how to DIY it. After cleaning and priming the lamp base with a clear primer, grab your trusty baking soda and black pepper. Add as much or as little of each ingredient to enamel paint as you like. The black pepper will thicken the paint and the baking soda will add an element of grittiness. Once the mix is to your liking, apply heavy coats with a brush, crossing over the strokes to build up texture. Let dry. To finish your ugly lamp's stunning makeover, grab cinnamon and, using a stiff brush, dust it across the base. It might seem a little unusual, but cinnamon's unique color lends a trendy, aged stone look to the lamp. Seal with a clear sealer, let dry, and enjoy!