Are you looking to accentuate your home with either a western or rustic flare? How about a chandelier to light up your home? You can make an antler chandelier which will enhance your home from either elk, moose, mule or whitetail deer antlers. Here is an overall antler chandelier how to.
A huge majority of antler style chandeliers are made from antlers that are naturally shed. There are many tradesmen that comb the hills for the naturally shed antlers. They then sell them to individuals who are interested in making these deer-friendly chandeliers. The antlers come in an array of sizes and shapes, which makes for endless possibilities for the design of such.
If you want to create your own chandelier, you should find antlers that are basically the same size. No two will be shaped exactly alike so pick the ones that fit well together. Lighting kits can be purchased at your local hardware store. Make sure you check on how many light adapters you will need.
Oil soap cleans out the inside of antlers. You should drill a hole at the tips where you want light bulbs. Paint a few coats, using low sheen polyurethane. Make sure you give it time to dry thoroughly between coats. This will give your chandelier durability.
Antlers then need to be connected at the base. Holes can be drilled through the sides, running wire through holes to connect a circle of antlers. Wires should be tightened and then solder them. Screws can also be attached if necessary. Be careful not to run the wiring inside unless they are stable. An electrician can test for stability before wiring. The wiring should go through the antlers and out through the tips. The chandelier should then be connected to the ceiling wires. Anchors and screws should be used to secure to the ceiling.
Should you want more detailed instructions, there are videos available for step-by-step instructions on how to make your own custom chandeliers. In these videos you will learn how to find antlers, grade them, assemble, drill for internal wiring, concealing the wire, test, stain, and finally painting the antlers.
Designing and building your own custom chandelier can be fun and the outcome will be rewarding
