Brass has a timeless charm. Elegant, warm, solid. When carefully and creatively shaped, it can become a true work of art: a handcrafted brass chandelier is much more than just a light fixture, it's a statement of style.
Brass is a mixture of two main metals: copper and zinc. The proportion between these two elements can vary, and this affects the final characteristics of the alloy, such as color, hardness, and resistance. The result is a metal with a golden, shiny, and very attractive appearance that resembles gold but is more affordable and easier to work with. For this reason, brass is often used to make chandeliers, handles, musical instruments, watches, and many other decorative objects. Additionally, brass is appreciated because it is resistant to corrosion, easy to shape, and has an elegant and warm appearance. So, it’s a perfect choice for creating beautiful and durable objects!
In this article, I will take you through the artisanal process of making a brass chandelier, step by step, from design to finishing. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast, a designer, or simply curious, you'll find inspiration and some practical tips here.
The project: everything starts from an idea
Like any well-made object, a chandelier also starts from a solid design. Everything begins with drawing and planning the chandelier's design. The shape, size, number of arms or suspended elements are decided, and sketches or models are created. The fundamental questions are: How many lights should it have? What style do you want to achieve (classic, industrial, modern)? How big should it be? How will it be hung from the ceiling?
Once these characteristics are defined, you can move on to choosing the material.
The choice of brass: the soul and body of the chandelier
You can work with sheets, tubes, or bars depending on the needs. For a chandelier, the most commonly used materials are: brass tubes for the arms; turned bars for the central body; sheets for any decorative details.
Cutting and preparation of the pieces
Brass tubes are cut to the desired lengths using tools such as pliers or specialized saws. The edges are filed to remove burrs and achieve smooth surfaces.
Construction: where craftsmanship meets technique
The construction takes place in multiple stages: welding or mechanical assembly of the various parts; drilling for the passage of electrical cables; assembly testing to verify proportions and stability. Each component must be handled with care, especially if the design is intricate or requires precise symmetry. In many cases, work is done “dry” before the final assembly to ensure everything fits perfectly. The brass pieces are assembled together, either through screwing with washers and nuts or via soldering with tin or other welding methods, to join the components in a stable and precise manner.
Finishing
Once assembled, the chandelier can undergo surface treatments. It can be polished to achieve a shiny surface or treated with antiquing or matte finishes for a vintage or modern effect. Protective paints are also applied to preserve the metal.
Wiring and electrical components
After assembly, the chandelier needs to be wired. This step is crucial for safety: cables are inserted into the arms and central body, bulb holders (E14 or E27, depending on the bulbs) are fixed, and everything is connected to a central terminal for attachment to the ceiling.
Remember: if you lack electrical skills, it’s always best to rely on a professional.
Finishing: beauty and protection
The final touch is the brass finishing. There are many options: mirror polishing for a shiny look; satin brushing for an industrial style; browning for a vintage or antique effect. Finally, a transparent varnish can be applied to protect the metal from oxidation. The finished product is checked to ensure all parts are well assembled, the electrical system functions correctly, and the chandelier is stable and safe.
Installation and magic
The most exciting moment is the installation. Seeing your chandelier turn on for the first time is like bringing an idea to life. Every imperfection tells a story, and every detail reflects the craftsmanship of the hands that created it.
Creating a brass chandelier is not only a technical exercise but also an act of personal expression. It’s a project that requires patience, precision, and passion, but it can bring immense satisfaction
