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I like this lamp. Reminds me of some really expensive ones. Except it’s only $30. So I snatched it up.

But I’m on a goldy-bronze kick lately, and it’s the metal finish of choice for my study-o. So thanks to a little paint, my metallic dreams came true:

I originally tried rub-n-buff (starting at the bottom of the lamp) after seeing several tutorials, but I didn’t find it the easiest to use, and I wasn’t crazy about the finish, so I switched to gold leaf paint. I kind of like the way the paint and brush I used left small streaks that look more like a brushed finish. Ba-dum-bum.

I love makeovers that can be done studying while watching TV, don’t you?

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14 Comments

  1. I love Rub 'n Buff, but it's definitely not for a project like that lamp. You made a wise choice to switch to a better product.
    My friend just turned 40 in December and I picked up a thrift store bucket and used Rub 'n Buff on the bottom, inside, and handles, and it was a hit! :) Here's the link if you want to take a peek!

    http://www.thriftdiving.com/2012/11/cheap-gift-ideas.html

    Take care!

  2. Do you mind me asking what color the paint is in your office? I looked under the house tour tab and paint color tab but I don’t think it is listed. I love that it is a blend of navy and grey and might be a jumping off point for my entry way and dining room!
    Thx! Love your blog btw!!

    1. The office color is called Hale Navy by Benjamin Moore. I haven’t updated that paint color page yet – coming soon!

  3. Sarah, that lamp looks fantastic!! I tried rub n’ buff on some swing arm brushed nickel lamps and (as I’m sure you can guess) it was a streaky distaster. Do you happen to know what brand your gold leaf paint was? I’d love to have another go at it!

    1. It was the same brand as the rest of the gold leaf products in the aisle at the craft store. I think it had a Mona Lisa figure on it. But the paint is a tiny little pot of thin fluid with a metal screw cap and comes encased in plastic like small electronics. That should be enough to find it!

  4. Oh my gosh – I’m loving this lamp, especially after you painted it! It really does look so expensive and classic. Great addition – now I want one too!

  5. Hi
    The lamp looks great! I’ve been trying to locate the Mona Lisa paint you used but I am having trouble. If you don’t mind could you please post the exacts link of the paint? I found the leaf but not a fluid version.

    Thank you