One of the least expensive ways to update the entire look of a room is by purchasing new lamps. However, a quality set of decorator lamps can themselves cost quite a bit. Rather than spending money to purchase new lamps, you can easily revitalize the look of your old lamps by crafting decorator lampshades.
There are several quick and easy ways to turn your plain lampshade into a truly beautiful original. These methods, however, will only work on a flat, not a pleated, lampshade.
Cover with fabric
You can cover your lampshade easily with any type of fabric. First, you must make a template for the lampshade. Using a large piece of paper, such as brown wrapping paper, start at one side and just roll the lamp shade across the paper, tracing it as you go. This will give you the entire shape of the lampshade.
Cut out the template and trace it on the fabric of your choice. You should add a little extra to each edge for fabrics to turn to the wrong side and hide any fraying edges.
Using spray fabric adhesive, simply glue the fabric to the lampshade. Be careful to not stretch the fabric out of shape or wrinkle it. Turn the extra fabric over the edges, gluing it securely to the wrong side.
Beaded fringe
If you like the fabric of the shade but want to create a more stylish look, you can consider beaded fringe. It is possible to purchase lengths of beaded fringe in many craft stores or you can make your own by simply threading lengths of beads onto stout thread and stitching it around the bottom of the lamp shade. You could also use fabric fringe or other trims such as lace or ruffles.
Stencil painting
Another way to craft a lovely decorator lampshade is to paint designs on it using stencils. You do not need much artistic skill to use stencils, and they can be found in many different styles at craft stores. You can stencil a trim of vines or swag around the lampshade or just paint a focal point picture in the middle.
Other Possible Lamp Shade Coverings
Your imagination is the only limit when it comes to decorating your lampshades. You do have to be careful to make sure the materials you use will not get too hot or cause any problems in that way, however.
You can find a collection of straight sticks and glue them side-by-side vertically on your lampshade to make a country cabin look. You can use paper or fabric decoupage techniques to apply motifs quickly. Faux finish painting techniques can look very nice as well.
Crafting a decorator lampshade is a fun and inexpensive way to update the look of your room. With some pretty fabric, paint, or fringe, you can turn an ugly lamp into a gorgeous unique accent piece.
