Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Antique Chandelier–Part 2 – Rewiring, etc.


After the task of dismantling and cleaning the chandelier (posted here), it was on to the task of rewiring and putting it back together.
Chandelier wiring
First up. Opening the bottom to pull out the old wiring.   The old wiring that went into each of the “arms” was left alone since it looked “healthy”.     So I just pulled the main wire and connected a new one through the center.  I simply unscrewed the electrical connectors (black doodads).
Chandelier wiring 2
I intended on using a kit with an inline switch but because it was an older chandelier, the new wiring was too chunky to go through the narrow pipe.   I called a friend who has supplies (and skills) for virtually every project.
Chandelier SWITCH
Since she never disappoints, she had a smaller old electric cord and showed me how to install an inline switch.   Yahoo!  New skill acquired.

Chandelier diagram
Although my drawing skills might be lacking, this diagram helped me to put it all back together.

Chandelier BEFORE
As I started to put it back together I felt that the old gold’ish color was not really giving it what it was worthy of .  So.  I.  painted. it.
Chandelier CLOSE 2
Sacrilegious?  Perhaps.  But so much better!
Chandelier CLOSE 3

Chandelier CLOSE
Still a work in progress but the full reveal is coming soon.

6 comments:

Old Time Cindy said...

I use vinegar to clean everything...cheap and green!

Betsy@My Salvaged Treasures said...

Great tip! If I took that lamp apart, I'm certain that I'd never get it back together again:-) I'm sure you'll do a great job and it will look awesome. Hard to pass those beauties up even if they are covered in "ick."

Maureen said...

Isn't it awesome! Vinegar, salt, baking soda and lemon pretty much cover all cleaning tasks. And you can't beat the price!

Maureen said...

Haha! I get it - that's why I drew a diagram before I took it apart. Very crude but it worked.

Sissie's Shabby Cottage said...

Hi Maureen,
At least it is well worth the work. Old chandeliers are the prettiest. Can't wait to see.

hugs
Sissie

Old Time Cindy said...

Looks good now that it is painted white!