How to Make Homemade Lampshades

Making homemade lampshades is fairly simple. While it is possible to make a frame for the lampshade with some wires, it may not be strong enough for everyday use. Instead, buy a strong, plain lampshade and remake it with the existing frame. The process will not take more than an hour or two and the materials will not cost more than $30. The result will be a fully customized lampshade.

Fabric
White lampshade
Marker
Stapler
Scissors
Spray glue
white glue

Instructions

- 1
  Hold one end of the fabric with your right hand and hold it against the seam of the white lampshade. Make sure the fabric is inside out. Stretch the fabric out around the lampshade to the left. When the fabric reaches the seam, pinch the two fabrics together. Mark the right side of the pinched fabric from the top of the lampshade to the bottom. Make sure the ink does not leak through. Staple the pinch temporarily.
- 2
  Fold the top of the fabric into the lampshade and draw a line 1/2 inch inside of the lampshade. Flip the lampshade around so that the larger opening -- the bottom -- is facing up. Fold the bottom -- at the top now -- of the fabric into the lampshade and draw a line 1/2 inch inside of the lampshade.
- 3
  Remove the staples and lay the fabric on the table. Cut along the lines with the scissors.
- 4
  Spray glue on to the lampshade. Wrap the lampshade the same way you did when you started marking the fabric. This time, make sure that the inside of the fabric is in, and the patterned outside (or good side) is facing out. Press down firmly after wrapping. Use white glue on the seam and press firmly. Apply white glue to the 1/2-inch allowances on the top and bottom of the fabric. Fold the fabrics in.

Colonial Lighting Fixtures

Lampshade Instructions

Lighting