Embellishments add designer detail to ordinary, vintage chandeliers

It's the details that make your home décor unique. Vintage items can help, since you're less likely to see the same pieces in your friends' homes, but an embellisher can always turn a great find into a brilliant personal statement.

For years, we have had a vintage wrought-iron chandelier that I absolutely love. The day came, however, when I looked up and decided we needed a change. Rather than replace the chandelier, I decided to add some small shades -- with a personal touch, of course. The result is this project, which is great for a table or floor lamp that needs a makeover, too.

First, blend soft yellow paint and water in the disposable plastic cup until the mixture has a creamy consistency.

Next, dip the sponge into the paint mixture and, with a light hand, pat it over the entire surface of each lampshade. You may want to pat the sponge onto a piece of scrap paper first to get a feel for exactly how much pressure and paint you'll need.

When the lampshades are dry to the touch, estimate how much of the base of each shade will be covered by trim, then use the gold metallic marker to draw a wavy line just above where the trim will be. If you wish, add polka dots or other small designs along the gold wavy lines.

Hot glue the trims around the base of each shade, layering as desired. Be sure to tuck the raw edges under.

For this project, I recommend starting with relatively simple shades so that the details you add enhance rather than overwhelm the chandelier. And when you shop for trims, you may want to bring one of the shades with you to give you a better sense of the proportions, colors and textures that will help you achieve a look you'll love.

Dena Fishbein hosts the television show "Embellish This!" aired monthly on the DIY Network. To ask her how to embellish anything, e-mail her at dena@denadesigns.com or visit www.diynetwork.com.