7 Simple Ways to Repurpose Old Lighting

Don’t overlook old lighting and lamps when you’re thrifting! Here are 7 simple ways you can repurpose old lamp parts and lighting to use as pretty home decor accents.

When you’re out thrift shopping or hitting your favorite secondhand haunts, do you pass by the old lamps or lighting? If you have, I’m hoping today’s inspiration will cause you to take a second look. Because old lighting and lamp parts can be a great way to add a pretty and unique touch to your home decor. Enjoy these creative ideas in 7 Simple Ways to Repurpose Old Lighting.

Today I’m joining a couple of my Lifestyle of Love pals to share how we use old lighting in our homes. Thanks to Cindy at County Road 407, who organizes us! I’ll have the rest of the inspiration at the end.

7 Simple Ways to Repurpose Old Lighting

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Old Light Fixtures Add Ambiance

Often old glass light fixtures have faceted or unique designs, which make them perfect for casting a pretty glow. All you need to add is a votive candle or battery powered light source for pretty nighttime ambiance. Tuck them into a shelf display, or create a stunning centerpiece with them.

White epsom salts and a votive candle are the perfect addition to these vintage light globes. They cast beautiful shadows all around.

Years ago I found these beautiful hand painted light globes at an estate sale. THESE faceted battery powered candles look so pretty set inside them; it shows off the dainty flowers and designs on each. I love tucking these into bookshelves and in glass front cabinets for a pretty glow (and I love that I can use a remote to easily turn them off).

Repurposing Old Lighting

Old light globes can also be used to hold something upright, and turn it into more of a decor feature. Battery powered candles can be grouped standing up for a fun accent. (you can find the candles HERE)

You can also tuck a vase of water under a light globe and have pretty flowers coming out of the top. This was one of my favorite Easter table centerpieces. See the full tutorial in “How to Build a Centerpiece”.

Delete the Electric on Old Lighting Fixtures

Battery operated lightbulbs (find them HERE) create a whole new way to use old electric lights…no electricity needed! If you’ve got a spot without a plug in nearby, simply pop one of these light bulbs in and turn on with the remote control!

I’ve had a couple of old “pin up” lights as my grandma used to call them. I snipped the cords off and hung them at the end of our hallway, where we don’t have a plug. Once charged, they will last for 4 hours, and there are many light options to choose from. All these new rechargeable lights are indeed a decorators best friend;)

Upcycle Old Lighting and Lamp Parts

Sometimes you can take old lighting and lamp parts and combine them to create upcycled home decor. This pretty pink glass ceiling fixture had such beautiful details. Luckily we were able to marry up the middle hole with a thrifted metal lamp base to create a fun upcycled display bowl.

I’ve displayed vintage shiny brite ornaments in it for Christmas, with a string of twinkle lights shining through. For Spring, it’s pretty with a rustic nest, moss and birds.

Add a Layer to Your Candlesticks with Old Light Globes

Add a pretty layer to your candlesticks with old light globes. Simple set them on a pedestal type candleholder and pop your candle on top. You can add greenery or moss around the base, also. So pretty!

Use Old Lamp Parts as Pretty Risers

Old floor lamps are a treasure trove of great parts and pieces. Often I like the pieces better than the whole when it comes to vintage. I had Mr. Fix-it take a couple of has-been old floor lamps apart. The heavy base pieces can be used as beautiful risers for other decorative items, like plants. This intricate hook piece is still waiting for the perfect idea; for now it’s great as architectural art just laying nearby.

Rewire Vintage Light Fixtures

If you find a beautiful old light fixture, have it rewired and hang it in your home to add a unique touch. I picked this metal chandelier out of a curbside pile. At first I was going to rip the electricity out and use it with clay pots of flowers outside. But the more I looked at it, the more I liked it:) Mr. Fix-it patiently rewired the whole thing, and we hung it in the dining room. I love looking at it everyday!

(trying to decide which woven shades would look cute on it for Spring: check out the fun options HERE)

Are you going to take another look at the lighting section the next time you go thrifting? I hope so! There are so many creative and fun ways to use these overlooked treasures. Maybe you’ve got some of your own in storage you can rethink and enjoy!

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