Plumbing Pipe Candlesticks

In anticipation of Valentine's Day on Monday, we though we'd share this relevant "how-to" guide. Stephen Antonson teaches how to turn spare plumbing parts into an array of industrial candlesticks that are guaranteed to set the mood for any occasion, especially Valentine's Day.



How-Tuesday: Plumbing Pipe Candlesticks from Etsy on Vimeo.


Materials

Plumbing parts can be found at most hardware stores or plumbing supply stores. Here’s a breakdown of all the plumbing parts you can use in this project:

• Bushings — a threaded exterior on one side, and a threaded interior on the other
• Couplings — each end of a coupling connects to other parts
• Unions — two identical interior threadings on either side, unions “unite” two other parts together
• Nipples — a short length of pipe that has two identical threaded ends on either side.

Plumbing parts come in either black or galvanized silver, both of which are quite striking. You have the option of leaving them bare or painting them (See Step 3).  

You’ll also need:

• Candles
• Mineral spirits
• Spray paint (optional)

Directions

1. Thoroughly wipe down the plumbing parts with mineral spirits and a clean rag. The parts come with grease and oils on them to prevent corrosion, so you want to make sure to give them a good once over. If you’re planning on painting your candlesticks, wait for the parts to fully dry before you break out the spray paint.
2. Now it's time to assemble your candlesticks. There are endless combinations of parts you can try, so let your creative candlestick vision guide you. If your union-bushing-coupling combination isn’t looking quite right, try a union and four bushings. Or maybe add a nipple. There’s no wrong way to make a candlestick, so have fun!
3. As we mentioned, if you prefer the original galvanized or black finish your plumbing parts, skip this step. If you do want to customize your candlesticks with paint, pick a color and start spraying. After ensuring that your candlesticks are completely dry and free of residue, apply your paint in short, even bursts until your surface area is fully covered.
4. Pick a candle that complements your creation and you’re ready to go. Now you’ve got a great piece to spruce up your kitchen table or a romantic evening you’ve been planning.

Have a Happy Valentine's Day!

For more information on this and other great DIY projects, check out Stephen’s book, Home From the Hardware Store, available on Amazon or from an independent bookseller near you.

 About the filmmakers: 

Soo Kim and Marcus Ricci are founding members of Brazen Angler Films. They live and work in Brooklyn, NY.