Fabric Lampshades

Decorating With Style : Episode DWS-438 -- More Projects »
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Create unusual lampshades using fabric, wire frames and fabric stiffener. Recycle flea-market finds such as trims, ribbons and silk leaves by using them to embellish new shades.

Paper Cylinder Lamp

Apply a strip of glue down the length of a cylinder shade. Press one end of a silk scarf into glue, and let it dry. Wrap the scarf around the shade, pulling it taut, so it only slightly overlaps. Trim away any excess fabric. Apply another strip of glue down the length of the shade, and press the other end of the scarf onto it. Let it dry. If there is excess scarf material hanging off the rims of the shade, simply apply glue to the inside of the shade near the edge, and fold the scarf over the top and bottom rims into the glue.

Fabric Stiffener Shade

To embellish a paper lampshade, cut fabric pieces into desired shapes, such as leaves. On a paper plate, using a paintbrush, generously apply fabric stiffener to the correct side of the fabric. Fabric stiffener will prevent the piece from fraying and will also hold it onto the lamp. Place the wet cutout onto the lamp in desired area, and brush it flat into place with the paintbrush. The fabric stiffener will dry clear.

Broomstick Skirt Shade

This technique is great for repairing a dented or stained lampshade. Put the skirt on the lamp by placing the elastic waistband around the top rim of the shade and gluing it into place with fabric stiffener. Trim off the excess skirt that hangs below the bottom rim of the shade. Glue the fabric around bottom rim of the lamp, and let it dry. Glue a fabric trim along the edges.
Resources
tacky glue-Crafter's Pick Incredibly Tacky
Adhesive Products Inc. (API) Crafter's Pick
Website: www.crafterspick.com
Guests
Lynne Farris
Craft designer, author and owner of Lynne Farris Designs
Website: www.lynnefarrisdesigns.com
Also in this Episode