How to inexpensively transform a basic vanity bathroom light into a farmhouse-style fixture using mason jars and spray paint
Hi y’all! I ran into a few technical hiccups this week, but I’m excited to share this simple, budget-friendly makeover. Mason jar projects are everywhere, but this one gave our powder room the farmhouse personality we wanted — and it only took minutes and a few dollars.
I’m determined to personalize the builder-grade finishes in our home and give them more character. This project was super easy and cost me only about $6. With paint drying time and my husband’s help installing the fixture, the whole thing took roughly 20 minutes.
Supplies used:
- 2 mason jars (or as many as your fixture requires) — smaller or larger styles work depending on the look you want
- Oil-rubbed bronze spray paint
- A Sharpie marker
- A hammer and a nail
- Your existing vanity light fixture (you can use a similar builder-grade fixture and transform it the same way)
After removing the old shades and bulbs and taking the fixture down, I sprayed two light coats of oil-rubbed bronze on the fixture. Let each coat dry fully before handling.
While the paint dried, I prepared the mason jar lids. Using the fixture’s flange as a guide, I traced the opening onto the center of each lid with a Sharpie. Keeping the lid on the jar while marking and cutting makes the process easier and steadier.
Next, I made small holes close together around the traced circle using a nail and hammer, then worked the center out. You don’t need power tools — patience and small, controlled taps will do the job.
Once the circle was punched out, the center piece popped free with a little pressure. I painted the lid rings to match the oil-rubbed bronze finish, which helps the whole fixture look cohesive.
A quick note: don’t try to punch the cut piece out with your thumb. It’s sharp. Use a screwdriver or tweezer to pry it loose safely.
When assembling the jars onto the fixture, slide the metal ring (the screw-on part) onto the jar first, then set the cut lid on top and tighten the ring. I learned this after a little trial and error — the correct order makes installation much easier, especially if you’re working with slightly warped or tight-fitting rings.
For bulbs, I chose an Edison-style bulb to enhance the vintage farmhouse feel. If you prefer energy-efficient bulbs, pick one with instant-on output so the small powder room lights quickly and brightly.
The transformed light now matches our style and adds personality to the powder room. It’s a small change that makes a noticeable impact and pairs nicely with our mirror and other decor.
This project is another step toward unifying the finishes in our downstairs spaces. I’ve already refreshed the foyer and hallway lights and plan to tackle the kitchen and dining room next — matching finishes throughout will pull the whole look together.
It looks great with my HomeGoods mirror, and this simple upgrade gave the room the farmhouse charm I wanted without spending much at all. Small, focused updates like this are a great way to personalize rented or newly built homes.
If you try this DIY, keep these quick tips in mind: trace carefully, punch small holes close together, remove sharp pieces with a tool, paint components before final assembly, and install the metal ring on the jar first. With basic tools and inexpensive supplies, you can turn a plain, builder-grade vanity light into a distinctive farmhouse fixture.
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