5 Lighting Fixture Upgrades You Can DIY

Want to brighten up your home? Rethink the way you're lighting it. Lighting fixtures are a small, affordable way to upgrade your rooms and exterior, but DIYers are often reluctant to take on the job. Here are a few ideas and all the how-to information you need to make the improvement yourself. You'll be just fine as long as you remember to cut the power before you get started. -Tabitha Sukhai, thisoldhouse.com

Swap in a Vintage Light

Vintage light
Vintage light


Adding a character-filled flea market find is probably easier than you think. All you need is 30 minutes and a few basic tools. See full instructions, tools list, shopping list, and more inHow to Swap in a Vintage Light.

Install a Ceiling Fan

Ceiling fan
Ceiling fan


Aside from illuminating a room, ceiling fans are also a great energy-saving upgrade! In the summer, they reduce strain on air conditioners and in the winter they help circulate heated air back down to where you are. As the Step-by-Step states, though, "Just remember, electrical boxes used for ceiling lights aren't strong enough to hold a ceiling fan. You must replace the existing electrical box with one designed for ceiling fans." See full instructions, tools list, shopping list, and more inHow to Install a Ceiling Fan.

Add Entry Sconces

Entry sconces
Entry sconces


Ample lighting at your entry boosts curb appeal and adds a measure of safety, too. But pick a unique fixture! Think of it as jewelry for your house. See full instructions inHow to Install an Exterior Sconce.

Lift Light From the Nightstand

Pulley light
Pulley light


With just a couple of hours of DIY, you can lift lighting from your nightstand by swapping lamps for these charming wall-mounted fixtures. See full instructions, tools list, shopping list, and more inHow to Use a Barn Pulley to Make a Wall-Mount Light Fixture.

Put Light Where You Need It

Pendant lights
Pendant lights


The most requested lighting upgrade at thisoldhouse.com? Amping up kitchen task lighting with pendants, of course! The quick upgrade doesn't have to break the bank and makes a big impact. See full instructions, tools list, shopping list, and more inHow to Hang a Pendant Light.