Materials Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to replicate this project:

• Candlesticks: Mismatched thrifted or antique finds.
• Clean Slate: For cleaning and prepping your surfaces.
• One Step Paint in Palace Gray: A beautiful bluish-gray base coat.
• One Step Paint in Chelsea Square: A contrasting topcoat color.
• Sea Sponge or Applicator: For creating a marbled texture.
• Light Antiquing Wax: To enhance the depth of the finish.
• Pigment Powder in Pompeii Gray: To achieve an old-world, aged look.
• Baby Wipes: To reveal metallic or gold details.
• Lint-Free Rag: For buffing the finished pieces.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Prepare the Candlesticks

Clean your candlesticks thoroughly using Clean Slate. If they are resin, wood, or another material, ensure they’re free of dirt and oils. This step ensures the paint adheres properly.

Step 2: Apply the Base Coat

Paint all the candlesticks using One Step Paint in Palace Gray as your base color. This unifies the different styles and materials into a cohesive group.

Step 3: Reveal Metallic Details

Using baby wipes, gently wipe away some of the base coat from areas with gold or metallic details. This creates a striking contrast and highlights the intricate designs on the candlesticks.

Step 4: Add Gold Leaf to Plain Candlesticks

For candlesticks without metallic details, apply gold leaf to ensure all pieces have similar accents.

Step 5: Create a Marbled Texture

Using a sea sponge or DIY applicator (such as an “octopus” sponge made from a t-shirt), apply One Step Paint in Chelsea Square over the base coat. Dab the paint to create a marbled effect.

Pro Tip: If you apply too much of the topcoat, go back with your applicator and add more Palace Gray to achieve your desired balance.

Step 6: Apply Wax for Depth

Once your paint has dried, apply Light Antiquing Wax with a light brush. Work it into the crevices to bring out the texture and detail of the candlesticks. Let the wax dry until it feels tacky.

Step 7: Add Pigment Powder for an Old-World Finish

Rub Pigment Powder in Pompeii Gray into the tacky wax using your hands. This creates a weathered, aged effect that adds depth and sophistication to your candlesticks. Buff with a lint-free rag to remove excess powder and reveal a polished finish.

Styling Ideas

• Holiday Centerpiece: Arrange the candlesticks down the center of your dining table with greenery and candles for a festive look.
• Buffet Table Display: Use varying heights and place them on risers like antique serving containers.
• Year-Round Décor: Pair the candlesticks with seasonal flowers or neutral accents for everyday elegance.

Why You'll Love This Project

• Budget-Friendly: Transform inexpensive thrifted finds into high-end décor.
• Timeless Design: The old-world finish works for both festive and everyday settings.
• Customizable: Adjust the colors and accents to fit your personal style or home décor.