goob's room - makeover of a new lamp

another inexpensive purchase from sam's warehouse yesterday for goob's room (see here for the start of this room adventure!!).

side note: it's funny - that shop is so full of crap - but since blogging and on a mega budget - my eye is keener than ever for those little somethings that can be made into a major something......

behold the $19.97 lamp.....(it came new in a box!).....

certainly nothing special looking (although not too bad if you actually want a basic black and white lamp!). the base is ceremic and the switch is on the chord.

while at spotlight (also yesterday!) i eyed me some of this magic stuff (although i didn't realise just how magic until today). cost $10.95......

silver leaf - rub 'n buff

it states on the rear that you rub it on with your finger - wait till dry - then gently buff up with a soft cloth.
sounded simple to me - i was very willing to take the plunge!!

here's half way through.....

and finally here's the finished lamp in all it's glory with a little fabric added to the shade - just as the goob requested. (we are working together on this room - she's 15 and taller than me - so i'd better let her have some say as it's her room!!!!).....

for the fabric tie - i just cut a notch in the fabric - and tore the strip (for that rustic ripped affect) - and tied it on with a knot.
(there is currently a little pin in place at the rear just to hold a pleat in the fabric to hold it tight - as this shade tapers in a little)
the great thing about the added fabric - it's a no sew and no glue fix - and easily changed if a colour change is requested.

the goob is very happy - i am thrilled!!
i love the rub 'n buff silver - the effect looks amazing and this lamp will look so so so pretty in her room.

a couple of things regarding the rub 'n buff silvering - 
1. there is loads left in the tube - so my eye has already been scanning the house for more bits to be made pretties!!
2. using my finger meant that i didn't have to wash up any brushes - it washed off easily with soap from my finger - but for brushes i believe you need something stronger - ie turps.
3. it is quite strong smelling - use in a well ventilated area.
4. play around a little with it to get the right coverage for you. going straight on a glossy ceramic like this meant that i had to be careful with the application as it rubbed off if i wasn't careful. i could have undercoated the lamp first perhaps - but i like quick makeovers - it's how i roll!!!!
5. i may use a spray or paint on clear coat to finish it off and ensure that the silver doesn't rub off further. the instructions didn't call for this - i'll see how it holds up. (and post again another day if i decide that a top clear coat is needed)

here's some more photos - 'cuz i know you want some.....

and what crafty/diy blog would be complete without the all important before and after shot ?! .....

so - what do you think?? has anyone else used this or a similar product??

i'm again linking this post up to Beth forTutorials & Tips Tuesday Link Party
- do check out her blog - it's fabulous!!






my last post was also linked up today - it's here - for those that really don't want to scroll!

edited to add:  that i'm also linking up with the lovely Kristin at Tuesday's Treasures - (love love love this blog)

thanks for dropping in - hope things a great in your part of the world.
cheryl xox.