Today I have a true trash-to-treasure project to share!
It all started when we were working on the Budget Patio Makeover at my boyfriend's house. We replaced the porch light and I took the old one home with me thinking I could make something with it.
Low and behold, an idea came to me recently!
Repurposed Porch Light With Three Decor Ideas
You may have something similar to this on your house... old, ugly, broken... don't throw them away! Read on to see the transformation!
I started by taking it apart to remove the part that attached to the house and the light bulb holder inside.
I removed all the glass pieces for painting, they just slid out once that bottom piece was removed!
I cut a little piece of wood to act as a base and then painted the whole thing with a pretty robin's egg blue color called Catalina Mist.
There was also a gold metal insert that I think acted like a reflector because it was in the back of the light fixture. I decided to paint it with Looking Glass spray paint.
I loved the mottled appearance that this spray paint gave it!
I found these two metal molds in my stash to use as risers for my new lantern. I used the tape to mark off the area where it would be glued to the lantern so it wouldn't get painted.
Once everything was painted and dry, I reassembled it with the new wooden base and risers. I also left off the front glass piece so that I could easily place things inside.
Next, I set about making three different decor ideas for my new lantern!
I wanted a fall themed idea first so I created a bow embellished with a felted pumpkin from a headband I found at the thrift store, some green leaves, and pretty polka-dot ribbon.
I put magnets on the backs of the bows I made so they are easy to switch out.
Here is how to make an easy double loop bow!
I used another tart mold and a battery operated candle for the inside.
Then I thought it would be fun to have a neutral lantern that I can put out any time of year.
I made another bow and used a little faux succulent.
Finally, I wanted a whimsical little lantern scene.
Here is how I made this display...
I found these chipboard mushrooms at the craft store.
I painted three of them and then added little strips of cardstock on the bottoms, you'll see why in a second.
I cut a circle from a sheet of moss to fit inside the lantern. I found the moss at the Dollar Store.
I cut slits into the back with a utility knife.
And I slid those little tabs I added to the mushrooms through the moss!
I folded the tabs over and glued them down on the back.
I added some tiny pinecones around the base of the mushrooms to stabilize them and keep them from flopping around too much, and I added some glitter.
For this bow, I used one of these moss balls from Target's Dollar Spot.
A little freebie spun cotton mushroom I received as a gift with an order.
And some more tiny pinecones.
A couple of little white daisies finish off this whimsical bow!
I found the little fox figurine at the craft store.
Which one of these is your favorite?
Love the remodel of the fixture. I could see the possibilities of it being a cute little display "cloche". I like all the versions but i think my favorite is the sweet mushroom scene! Very creative use of something that would usually end up in a dumpster!
ReplyDeleteThank you! I really like the mushroom one too :)
DeleteI like the first lantern best, but I love the little scene with the fox! So very clever!
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteI love where your mind went with that old light fixture, Tania! Love the color you painted it too. Cute ideas for decorating the lantern for the seasons. My fave is the adorable mushrooms!
ReplyDeleteThanks Marie, that's my favorite too and the one that is displayed right now :)
DeleteI vote for the mushrooms and the fox as well!
ReplyDelete:) thanks Jeannie!
DeleteGotta go with the fox! Animals first always! Great ideas Tania!
ReplyDeleteThanks Pam!
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