How to Make Victorian Sugar Shades

In Victorian times, most lampshades were made out of beautiful mosaic glass, with delicate glass beads hanging from the base like fringe. Once gas-flame lamps were replaced by electricity, the lampshades evolved into fabric stretched over a strong wire frame, and they retained their intricate floral designs and beaded fringes. Each Victorian lampshade can be uniquely designed to fit any home interior, and can be as simple or as grandiose as you like.

Square lampshade
Measuring tape
Pencil
Floral stencil
Masking tape
Stencil sponges
Fabric paint in 2 to 5 colors
Hot glue
Hot glue gun
Seed beads
Beaded fringe

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the length and top width of one side of your square lampshade and divide each measurement by two. Use these measurements to find the exact center of this side of the lampshade.
- 2
  Using the measurements you just made, lightly mark the center of each side of the lampshade with a pencil.
- 3
  Use the central pencil mark you just made to center your floral stencil on the lampshade. Tape down every side of the stencil securely.
- 4
  Paint directly over the stencil with stencil sponges using at least two different colors but no more than five. Let paint dry for a few hours before gently peeling off the stencil. Repeat on all sides of the lampshade.
- 5
  Outline the flowers with a thin line of hot glue and quickly pour seed beads over the glue before it dries. If desired, outline the leaves with glue and beads as well.
- 6
  Glue the beaded fringe along the bottom edge of the lampshade. Use considerably more glue than for outlining the floral pattern.

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