Paint your solo candlesticks a single bold color to create a unified collection with dramatic punch
How to Repaint Candlesticks
Rob D. Brodman

Materials

(not including candlesticks)

  • odorless paint thinner
  • spray paint primer
  • gloss spray paint

Tools

  • nitrile gloves
  • clean cloth
  • drop cloth or newspaper
  • protective goggles

Steps

1. Clean. Put on the nitrile gloves. In a well-ventilated place, moisten the cloth with paint thinner and wipe each candlestick to remove all wax residue.

2. Prime. Apply the primer outdoors on a calm day, or in a well-ventilated place indoors where the paint fumes and any overspray won’t cause a problem. Place one candlestick on the drop cloth or newspaper. Wearing the goggles and gloves, apply a light misting of primer, holding the spray can 12 to 14 inches from the candlestick. To prevent drips, keep the spray can at the same distance as you cover the candlestick evenly with paint. Let dry. Repeat for the other candlesticks. Between uses, wipe or clean the spray can nozzle as the label recommends.

3. Paint. Again working on one candlestick at a time, spray on two light coats of the glossy paint, allowing the paint to dry for the recommended time between coats. Keep the spray can at the same distance from the candlesticks as described above. Evenly cover the candlesticks, including the top rims. Let dry.

Style note

For a more dynamic look, use a fine artist’s brush and a different color paint to accent a few details on each candlestick. For a subtler look, choose paint for the main color that has an eggshell finish instead of a gloss finish.