Give New Life to Candlesticks with Chalk Paint

Give new life to candlesticks with chalk paint!

I found these old candlesticks that were covered in melted candle wax in the fireplace at Nanny’s house (now our house) and, well, they just looked like they had no life left. But, I knew when I saw them that some chalk paint could work miracles on these old candlesticks.

The candlesticks just had so much potential, I thought. In spite of how they looked. I’m sure Lenny thought they were headed for the garbage when he saw them.

They really looked rough, don’t you think? They not only had wax on them, but they had actually been exposed to the fire and ashes in the fireplace.

I cleaned the candles first with dish soap and water. I didn’t immerse the candles in the water. I just put a little bit of dish soap on my scouring pad and wiped over the candlesticks really well. I let the wood dry for a day or two and then put them in freezer for a few hours. Yes, you read correctly. I put them in the freezer. Why? To freeze the wax, of course!

After I removed the frozen wax, I sanded the candlesticks by hand. I used three different grits of sand paper and once I had a nice smooth finish, I applied my homemade chalk paint. I was going for a distressed look, but I still applied three coats of chalk paint, sanding between each coat.

I paid special attention to the edges and portions of the candlestick that would have naturally been more worn.

There’s no right or wrong amount of sanding. I sanded each candlestick a little differently and when I had the look I wanted, I quit sanding.

I also applied two coats of polycrylic, to help protect and preserve my new shabby chic chalk paint finish.

Every time I look at my “new” candle sticks, it’s hard for me to imagine them all covered in wax, soot and so badly warn. I love the look of my new chalk paint candlesticks. So the next time you’re rummaging thorough stuff in your basement or attic, local yard sale or flea market, don’t pass by those worn looking wooden candlesticks. But, don’t stop there! Chalk paint is a wonderful way to give new life to candlesticks, wooden pieces, picture frames, furniture, lamps – the possibilities are endless. The results? Beautiful! Just like the way the chalk paint gave new life to my candlesticks!

If you liked this give new life to candlesticks with chalk paint project, maybe you’ll also be interested in these DIY projects from The Birch Cottage archives: