A “Cool” DIY to Try: Vintage Fan

Smack dab in the middle of a 99 degree summer day this DIY was just calling my name. I’ve had this vintage fan sitting in my living room since I grabbed it at an antique store around Christmastime. This July heat had me thinking it’s time to make it over. Here is how I did it…

Refinished Vintage Fan

Supplies:

• A well-loved, rusty fan
• Spray paint (I used Krylon’s Foil Metallic Silver and Aqua Color Master Paint + Primer in one.)
• Sandpaper or sanding block
• Screwdriver

Steps:

1. Cut off the cord. While I love the look of the vintage fan, I wasn’t sure if it was safe to use or if it even worked.
2. Clean the fan and sand the rusty areas until smooth
3. Using a screwdriver, take as much of the fan apart as you feel comfortable doing. I wanted the cage and blades to have a fresh coat of silver and the base to be aqua. Another option would be to paint it all the same color or tape it off.
4. Apply two coats of silver spray paint to the cage, blades and hardware. Make sure to allow time for it to dry in between coats.
5. Apply two coats of aqua spray paint to the base and body of the fan.
6. Put it all back together.

Fun variations:

• Paint it all one color for a modern look. Try oil rubbed bronze.
• Paint the blades gold and the rest silver for a mixed metal look.
• Use chalk paint for a more vintage feel.

This simple makeover gave new life to my thrifted fan in one afternoon’s time! Keep cool and craft on.