Hello Friends! Gosh it has been so long since I have posted. Life got in the way. I had spine surgery last June and was pretty much out of commission for months. I had planned on blogging my butt off during recovery but found that I could not tolerate sitting up long enough to do so. Once I got back on my feet it was time to start working on orders. Most of my orders are custom made so that takes priority over blogging. So. I am happy to be here today and am going to share with you a special thrift store wall sconce makeover!
Let’s Upcycle A Thrifted Electric Wall Sconce and Give It Some French Charm!
I bought this lovely ornate wall sconce on a wonderful thrifting excursion while in Belgium back in 2022. I loved the bones about it and knew I could fit it in my suitcase (along with some other great finds). You can read more about my Thrifting Adventures In Belgium Here.
Now, I could have rewired it and added a plug so I could insert it into a wall outlet but I decided to go a different route with this sconce makeover. I was a little nervous about European wiring and it would have been a project to gut the whole thing. So I removed the electrical candle components, got out my trusty Amazing Goop Adhesive, a couple of metal candle cups for taper candles. I also used grommet halves to elevate the cups and give them something more substantial to grab onto.
*Note* I know a lot of folks love E-6000. I have tried it and Amazing Goop works so much better in my experience.
I carefully glued each piece in place, making sure everything was aligned just right, taping it down and then set the sconce aside to dry overnight. Patience is key here—letting the glue fully cure ensures everything stays securely attached. Now that everything is set and sturdy, it’s time for the best part: bringing this little treasure back to life with a creative touch! This is where the real magic happens—transforming an old, unwanted find into a one-of-a-kind piece for your home.
I painted the thrifted wall sconce white, lightly distressed it and added a small “Love” rub on decal to the center. I hung it on the wall in my master bedroom and popped in two battery operated taper candles that are on a timer.
I absolutely love how this upcycled candle sconce complements my Paris painting. The combination of the two adds an extra touch of charm and romantic elegance to the space, don’t you think?
Each night around 9 p.m., the battery-operated candles flicker to life, casting a soft, cozy glow throughout the room. I absolutely love winding down with my favorite shows while the gentle lights twinkle in the background. Plus, they give off just enough light to guide my way if I need to get up—no more stubbed toes on late night bathroom trips!
Watch the video below from my YouTube Channel to see how it looks all lit up at night!
This “Thrift Flip” candle sconce makeover was so simple to do and I love the look of it. If you are a thrifter, like me, keep an eye out for electric candle sconces. You don’t have to wire them into your electrical system. There are other options! Don’t pass by an exceptional piece that may have loads of potential!
Happy Thrifting! Happy Crafting!
~Lisa
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