When designing her new office, Jen of Tatertots and Jello knew she wanted a wood bead chandelier to be the focal point. The one she had been eyeing cost in upwards of $2,000, but Jen was able to make her own bigger chandy for about $250.
Jen explains exactly how to thread the wood beads onto the wire and add them to an existing fixture to create her masterpiece. At 32” in diameter and three and a half feet in height, Jen’s chandelier is definitely a statement-making piece!
Jen offers a terrific guide on how to make this knockoff chandelier. Honestly, a lot of us might not tackle such a tedious project…but here at KnockOffDecor, it’s all about inspiration, right? This is a good example of how you don’t always have to try and pursue exactly what you see.
Like an interesting food recipe, you don’t have to make it exactly the way someone else did it. Take from it what you may, alter it, add your own twists, and you’ll come up with something special that’s all yours.
Whatever your take is on this inspiring project, here are a few great tips that can help get you going…and save you time and money.
What Light Fixture Should You Use?
Regardless of what you set out to do if you’re inspired by Jenn’s chandelier project, you need to start with a light fixture. Jen used one that is currently over $230 on Overstock.
We think we can do better.
In fact, if you venture to Amazon you can find one that is much cheaper. It should do just fine, and for a lot less mula.
Got Beads?
Jen used a lot of beads in her design. In her supply list, what quickly pops out is that she used 1,000 1″ unfinished wood beads.
Sounds like a lot? It is…
Perhaps, the shear volume of beads used is what makes this chandelier extra special. Jen went big though, so don’t feel like you have to do the same.
The chandelier recommended from Amazon is a bit smaller. So it would require fewer beads for sure. We think the size will still produce an impressive result.
This is unless of course your room is quite large, then it may be good to opt for the larger style she used. Go ahead. Go big if you truly want to!
Where to Get Beads?
Check here for wood beads in bulk and in various sizes. These are relatively inexpensive, but again if you end up using hundreds and hundreds like Jen did, it can add up fast. Let’s just say that 1,000 pcs. alone can cost well over $100.
Now you know why we talked about using this design as inspiration for something similar, and not necessarily copy verbatim?
Whatever you decide, have fun with a beaded light fixture like the one Jen made. One suggestion is not to appoint it to be the focal point of a room. That way you can pare it down and keep costs and effort lower; but still have a creative piece that any visitor will want to talk to you about.
Jen’s Inspiration?
Jen was inspired by the Anteriors Home Maurice 8 Light Iron/Wood Chandelier available from Wayfair.
Go to Tatertots & Jello for Jen’s detailed tutorial for how she made her own wood bead chandelier.