Ceiling Pendant Light

I have three recessed lights (put in by the builder, 5 years ago), that I would like to convert to pendant lights.

I know of three options:
- Portfolio conversion kit with light ($45, but limited shade selection)
- Well Hung LIght: $150 or so on line, large selection of shades
- The Can Converter (converter only): $48 incl. shipping on-line (I know I’ve seen in Lowe’s, may be less there), PLUS the cost of the pendant

A couple of questions:
- any experience with any of these?
- would it make sense to get the cheaper Portfolio kit and then replace the shade (are the shades interchangeable with shades I might see at a hardware store)?

I’m not prepared to spend $100+ per light so the well hung light is likely out. Also, I’ve replaced many light fixtures, but I’m no Bob Vila.

Thanks

I’m no Bob Vila either…just a middle aged housewife who was tired of my recessed lights…tried the Portfolio conversion kit in my kitchen…LOVED IT!…went back and bought 4 more…have been slowly changing over most of my lights. A little bit tricky at first but once you get the hang of it they look great …have had many compliments. As for limited shades options…I’ve found some beautiful shades on sale and changed them…pretty much a standard size (look in the clearence section..I got an incredile shade for dirt cheap…the actual lamp part of it was all screwed up but the shade was in perfect condition!) Good luck!