How to Transform an Old Ladder Into a Dazzling Chandelier

When you're taking the ladders apart, sometimes the rusty hardware is a little tough to get off, so use a little W-D40 . . . that helps get them loosened up.

Pliers and a screwdriver help, as well.

Mark where your hooks will be to hang your ladder based on where your studs in the ceiling are (make sure they are placed in a stud or that there is bracing in the ceiling — sheetrock alone won’t hold it up). Then predrill holes for your large hook — make sure the drill bit is smaller than the hook; you want it to be tough to get the hook in because you don’t want it sliding out.

Make sure you get a strong enough chain. The hardware store can cut it to the length you need.

Hooks in, sealed up, chain cut . . . now you're ready to hang!

Since you used the studs (or bracing in the ceiling) as your marks, you should know where the hooks in the ceiling go to match the hooks on your ladder. Make sure you have a couple people to help hold up the ladder while you place the chain on the hooks. If it is too long, you can keep that look, or get some bolt cutters and cut to size.