How to Create a Fall Leaf Lampshade

Give an ordinary lampshade autumnal appeal by stenciling it with fall leaves. This project is an easy and inexpensive way to give a subtle nod to the changing seasons.
Hand-Stenciled Lampshade

Seasonalize Your Decor

Give a plain lampshade autumnal appeal by stenciling it with fall leaves. Our free printable template makes this project is a snap, even for beginning crafters.

Materials Needed:

  • burlap lampshade
  • black acrylic paint
  • stiff bristle brush
  • no. 2 liner artist's brush
  • 1" brush
  • computer
  • printer

Create Stencil

Print leaf template in 5" x 7" photo format or 8" x 10" for larger leaves. Place blank plastic stencil over printed leaf template and trace design with permanent marker. Tip: Leaf template can be printed in assorted sizes to add variety.

DIY Fall Lampshade

Create Stencil

Print leaf template in 5" x 7" photo format or 8" x 10" for larger leaves. Place blank plastic stencil over printed leaf template and trace design with permanent marker. Tip: Leaf template can be printed in assorted sizes to add variety.

Cut Stencil

Use a sharp craft knife and cutting mat or board to cut leaf shapes out of template. Cutting stems is optional.

DIY fall Lampshade

Cut Stencil

Use a sharp craft knife and cutting mat or board to cut leaf shapes out of template. Cutting stems is optional.

Paint Branches

Paint branches around shade using a no. 2 liner artist's brush and allow paint to dry. Tip: Look at a tree in your yard, or a photo, and use the branch pattern as a guide.

DIY Fall Lampshade

Paint Branches

Paint branches around shade using a no. 2 liner artist's brush and allow paint to dry. Tip: Look at a tree in your yard, or a photo, and use the branch pattern as a guide.

Stencil Leaves

Secure leaf stencil to lampshade with painter's tape (Image 1). Apply acrylic paint to lampshade with stiff bristle brush (Image 2). To ensure clean lines, paint away from stencil edges, blotting the brush on a paper towel prior to painting lampshade (Image 3). For a more natural look, use different sizes and styles of leaves at end of branches. Tip: Rinse and dry stencil between uses to prevent paint from accidentally getting on lampshade.

Paint Trim

Tape off a 1/2-inch border on top and bottom of shade. Apply acrylic paint with 1-inch brush. Remove tape, and allow paint to dry.

DIY Fall Lampshade

Paint Trim

Tape off a 1/2-inch border on top and bottom of shade. Apply acrylic paint with 1-inch brush. Remove tape, and allow paint to dry.

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