Make Your Own Layered Paper Lampshade

Learn how to wrap a new layered paper shade to a standard wire lampshade frame.

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Filed under: Lamp Shade, Handmade, Crafts, Paper, Materials and Supplies, Lighting, Lamps

Designed by Helen Hiebert.

Materials and Supplies

pencil
plain paper
lampshade frame (available at fabric stores or lamp-shop suppliers)
scissors
rice paper (or other decorative paper that is strong yet somewhat translucent)
spray mount
paintbrush
white craft glue (be sure it is the type that won't yellow over time)
micro spatula (actually a bookbinding tool; can also use a coffee stirrer or plastic knife)

Steps:

Use a pencil to trace the outer edges of the four panels of the lampshade frame onto a piece of plain paper to make a pattern of the base size.
In this project, two patterns are actually used. Add 3/8 inch to each of the four sides of the pattern you've already drawn and 1/8 inch for the smaller pattern. The width should be different on the two patterns, but the length should be the same.
Use the patterns to trace out the proper size on the rice paper.
Draw a design onto the rice paper, then cut it out. Hiebert used a swirl shape for this project.

Figure B (Click image to enlarge.)

Apply spray mount to the rice paper cutout, then place the swirled design on top. Press down firmly. It's a very subtle touch until the lamp is illuminated.

Dip a small-size paintbrush into craft glue, then paint onto the first side of the frame you intend to cover.

Press the side of the frame with the glue on it onto the first cutout piece of paper. Allow to dry for a few minutes.

Cut a 1/8 piece off each corner of the paper.

Paint glue onto the first tab of the paper, then press it around the frame. Use the micro spatula, coffee stirrer or plastic knife to help roll the paper onto the frame.

Continue Steps 6 to 9 for the second larger panel with the wraparound method, then the last two slightly smaller ones by just placing the frame down onto the paper.

* Note: To make easy work of only painting glue on the outermost edges of the smaller panels, place a scrap piece of paper over it--just until the edge is showing.