Distressed Lamp DIY

Do you ever try a DIY and fail? I do…and I’m not even going to show you pictures of the failed attempt at painting a lamp with stone textured spray paint. It’s just not worth it!

Luckily, I tried that technique on a lamp that was old and an “extra” so I didn’t feel guilty getting rid of it. I did, however, want to try another painted lamp project on a good lamp. Except this time I used trusty old chalk paint and some antique wax!

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I started with a silver lamp base, but I planned to use this lamp in our guest room and wanted more of a farmhouse/distressed look.

1. Paint, using a chip brush, with chalk paint (color Linen by Amy Howard Home). No need to be careful with the brush strokes.
2. I did a second coat using a stippling motion (using the same chip brush), and left a few areas with the original silver finish showing through. Let the paint dry well before the next step.
3. Using a towel, I wiped on an antique wax (color Espresso). I wasn’t very careful with this step. I wanted it to look aged and distressed.
4. Let the wax “set” slightly then wipe down to buff and remove any excess wax.

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Stippling the paint on the lamp base added extra texture, and gives it even MORE of an aged look…which I love.

It might not be the original idea (with the stone/concrete look lamp base), but for this style of lamp I think the subtle texture and antique wax works best. More importantly, it works in the space and gives it a little update. Even better? I had all of these items on hand so it cost $0!!!

If you try this DIY, share a picture and tag me on instagram @riveroakhome – I’d love to see your creation!