Hello, my fellow crafting enthusiasts! I hope this post finds you well and brimming with creative energy. Today, I’m going to share with you a delightful little project that combines two of my favorite things – the holiday season and antique light fixtures!
Yes, you read that right! We’re transforming old, beautiful light fixtures into charming holiday bells. So, grab a cup of hot cocoa, put on your favorite festive tunes, and let’s dive into the world of creative upcycling together.
Together, we’ll explore how to transform old, forgotten items into delightful works of art that tell a story. All by making bells from antique light fixtures!
Making Bells from Antique Light Fixtures
There’s just something about vintage items that tugs at the heartstrings. Maybe it’s the charm of a bygone era or the stories these items could tell if they could talk. For me, it’s like each object is whispering its history, waiting for someone to listen and breathe new life into it. And who better to do that than us, the crafting aficionados?
Why Antique Light Fixtures?
Well, if you’re anything like me, you’ve got a soft spot for all things vintage. There’s something magical about taking an object with history and giving it a new life. Plus, antique light fixtures often have unique shapes and intricate designs that make them perfect for our holiday bells project!
What I looked for when I was choosing which pieces to use for this project was shape and interest. For the main portion of my bells I looked for parts of light fixtures that had a natural bell shape. These can be the part of a fixture that attaches to the wall or ceiling. It could also be part of a lamp. Anything that looks like a bell will work for you!
The next thing I did was find vintage items that I could use for the top of my bells. I chose a pretty spindle for one and made a hand bell. For another I used a gorgeous old gas spigot. Anything that will fit in to the top of your “bell” that you find interesting will work for this!
The Thrill of the Hunt
Part of the joy of crafting with vintage items is the thrill of the hunt. Whether it’s rummaging through the attic, exploring thrift stores, or trawling garage sales and vintage markets, every find feels like unearthing a hidden treasure. Sometimes, I feel like an archaeologist discovering an ancient artifact, except my discoveries are old typewriters, worn-out suitcases, and rusty kitchen utensils.
When you watch the video below, you will see some of the fabulous vintage items that I used for my bells. My hope is that watching my process will inspire you for your next vintage treasure hunts. When we keep an open mind and think outside the box, suddenly those trips become even more fun.
Just keep an eye out for fixtures and hardware that you find interesting! Then bring them home and turn them into something wonderful like these holiday bells!
How to Assemble Your Bell
Once you have chosen your light fixture and hardware pieces, it’s time to put them together. Since you are probably working with metal, I would leave the glue gun to the side for this and go with a strong adhesive. My go to for this type of project is E6000, but you can use any similar glue you have.
If you pieces fit together nicely, your gluing should be simple. But if your hardware needs a little extra stability, try using an old washer and some wire to secure your pieces together.
Making Bells from Antique Light Fixtures Supply List
- Antique light fixtures and/or other hardware
- Greenery
- E6000 adhesive
- Wire cutters
- Hot glue gun
- Scissors
- Seam binding (any color that you love )
Making Bells from Antique Light Fixtures Instructions
- Start by choosing your light fixture and hardware pieces like we talked about above. Then use your E6000 or similar adhesive to assemble your bell.
- Next use a glue gun to start attaching your greenery. Look for different shades and textures to add interest to your bell.
- Then use your seam biding to make a bow and attach it to your bell.
- You can stop here or add any little vintage treasures that you want to. You know I had to add some old keys to mine!
Sharing the Joy
The best part about crafting, in my opinion, is sharing the joy with others. Whether it’s gifting a handmade item to a loved one or hosting a crafting party with friends, there’s something incredibly satisfying about sharing your passion.
Remember, my crafty compadres, crafting isn’t just about creating beautiful items. It’s about the journey—the thrill of the hunt, the transformation of old to new, and the joy of sharing. It’s about taking something ordinary, adding a dash of creativity and a sprinkle of love, and creating something extraordinary.
The Wrap Up
There you have it, my craft-loving friends! Antique light fixtures turned into beautiful holiday bells. It’s amazing what a little creativity can do, isn’t it?
Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to do this project. The joy of crafting comes from making something uniquely yours. So feel free to experiment with different fixtures, strings, and bells.
I would love to see how you use these holiday bells in your own home. So if you post any pictures of them on social media, tag me so I can check them out! Remember, there’s no right or wrong in crafting – it’s all about having fun and letting your creativity shine.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your crafting tools, put on your explorer hat, and let’s dive into the marvelous world of vintage crafting together!
I would love to see how you use these holiday bells in your own home. So if you post any pictures of them on social media, tag me so I can check them out! As always, I hope you love this project as much as I do. Happy crafting, friends!
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