Teacup Chandelier

This idea was on the Oprah Show one day, years ago. The project is fun, and creates a one-of-a-kind light fixture. It's a great way to recycle mismatched pieces you can find at Goodwill or at yard sales. When the lights are dim, the china glows from the inside, creating a warm and intimate mood.

Materials: Chandelier Old teacups and saucers, one set for each point on the chandelier Dremel tool with diamond bit* 1 inch PVC pipe spacers, 1" long (if needed)

Instructions:

1. Drill holes in the bottom of the cups and saucers with a dremel tool. See diagram below. Be patient! It is semi-slow going! You can use a bit that was about 1/4" wide. First drill one hole into the bottom of the cup, and then use the sides of the bit, drilling sideways if you will, to bore out the rest of the china material. (Diagram view from bottom of teacup)
2. Unscrew any existing lightbulbs from the sockets in the chandelier. Some fixtures may have a plastic sheath surrounding the socket. If the sheath makes the socket fixture too big to fit through the holes in your china, remove it.
3. Put plates upside down on the points of the chandelier. Depending on the style of chandelier, you may choose to use a spacer (such as 1" PVC pipe, in one inch lengths) under the plate to raise the height a little so the top of the socket didn't show above the teacup.
4. Place teacups on top of the saucers, then screw in decorative lightbulbs.
5. Have someone knowledgeable in electrical matters hook up the fixture, and fasten it securely from the ceiling.

*Note: One person wore out three diamond bits on this project, drilling five cups and saucers.