Q: This amazing chandelier was recently featured in The New York Times with an equally amazing pricetag — $14,400! I'm wondering if you or any of your talented and crafty readers have any suggestions on DIY'ing something similar or purchasing something similar for less. Thanks!
Sent by Lisa
Editor: The Branching Bubble chandelier pictured is by Lindsey Adelman and was featured in The New York Times | Shopping With Alexandra Champalimaud. Who has suggestions for Lisa?
(Note: Include a pic of your problem and your question gets posted first. Email questions and pics with QUESTIONS in subject line to: newyork@apartmenttherapy.com)

Comments (12)
I can't tell you exactly how to make it, but I can assure you that if you go to a lighting or DIY store, you'll find everything you need to create a light similar to this one.
Conduit piping, sockets, wire, bulbs.
I like how that branches like a tree limb but looks sorta old fashioned too. I just don't understand how that gets priced at $14k???
Maybe search around Etsy for people who make chandeliers or work w/ metal and see if they could make you something similar for less.
sexyartbeast is pointing you the right way...you can't get better than DIY instructions from the artist herself.
in AT ReNest
http://www.re-nest.com/re-nest/green-style/green-style-diy-chandelier-105363
Sexyartbeast, I was going to share the same thing. Definitely a fun DIY project.
If you know anyone with welding skills, then this is a fun option: http://www.modernests.com/2009/02/modern-materials-branch-light.html
@ MODERnestS:
That's a great looking chandelier. It holds your attention.
However, the article is misleading: brass isn't welded, it's brazed. The difference is that lots of people can weld, but it's hard to find someone who knows how to braze a joint, especially in brass. If you're gonna tackle this, be sure to check on this point.
I'm half tempted to try it.
Alexander
@AlexanderB
The only difference between brazing and soldering is the temperature. Brazing is actually quite simple, and in my opinion much easier than Oxy-acetylene welding.
The branches of this light fixture look just like chemistry model sets that harried organic chemistry students use! In fact, this looks like a 2,3,5,6-quadmethyl-4,7-dipropyloctane molecule....
For those who might consider this DIY, I consulted one of the EE I work with and here are his comments:
26 AWG single-conductor wire with PVC insulation might be slightly undersized for 40W bulbs, most certainly undersized if you want to ramp it up to 60W. Also, consider using Teflon-coated wire for better wire insulation (and safer design).
Use 26 AWG wire if you want 60 W bulbs, but then consider the increase in wire OD and possible increase in brass pipe ID.
And finally, "if you're going to paint it, by God, don't use brass! Use something cheaper!" (lol)
I know this isn't exactly like the chandelier you want, but it's somewhat similar & it's only $199:
http://www.cb2.com/family.aspx?c=120&f=5281
Then this 1 is almost identical to yours but the price tag is still steep at $9,600:
http://www.mattermatters.com/products.asp?id=283
& finally, this one is very similar & it's only $300 on etsy:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/jeanpelle
Thanks gnj for the above reco -- I am planning to order -- love the look and the price!!