Old lamp shades can be given new life in a variety of creative and imaginative ways. From repurposed wall decorations to DIY pendants and hanging fixtures, the possibilities are endless. One idea is to break apart the lampshade, cut different shapes (such as circles, hearts, and rectangles) from the pieces, and reassemble them for a colorful patchwork-style pendant.
You can also remove the fabric and use the frame as a simple but attractive wall hanging. Add different fabrics, beads, or trims to the frame and hang plants, pictures, or other decorations to customize it.
Another option is to cover the outside of the shade with glue and sprinkle glitter on the surface, creating a dazzling look with just a bit of effort. Additionally, you can deconstruct the lampshade and use the pieces to create a 3D wall art piece.
You can also consider removing the fabric and painting or decoupaging the frame with wallpaper or other decorative papers. Finally, if you have some carpentry skills, you could create an entire new lamp base from the existing pieces.
The possibilities for making something beautiful and unique out of old lamp shades are almost endless.
How do you update a plain lampshade?
Updating a plain lampshade can be an easy and fun way to freshen up a room or update the style of your home. Depending on the look you are going for. First, you could add some fabric to the lampshade to give it texture, customizing it to suit the bedroom or living space.
To do this, use some craft glue, a piece of fabric of your choosing, and scissors. Cut and glue the fabric around the top and bottom rims of the shade and wrap the rest around the middle. You could also give the lampshade a whole new look entirely using decoupage techniques.
Cut out pieces of tissue paper, napkin paper, or even wrapping paper and apply them to the outside of the shade. If you want to get a little artsy with it, use some patterned scrapbook paper and draw on the paper pieces before gluing them on.
You could also spray paint the lampshade a cool color or glitter to really make it stand out. Finally, you could create a stencil or use a rubber stamp to add a custom design to your lampshade. Just be sure that you are using the right type of paint for it and that it’s properly sealed so it will last.
With these few simple steps, now you can easily update your plain lampshade to suit your style!.
What kind of paint do you use on a lampshade?
When choosing the right kind of paint to use on a lampshade, you should always consider the material the lampshade is made of and any available instructions that may come with it. Generally speaking, the best type of paint to use on a lampshade is versatile and designed specifically for painting fabric items.
Fabric paint is often made of an acrylic polymer which makes it highly durable and resistant to fading over time. While any type of paint could technically be used, there are some types of paints that should be avoided when painting a lampshade.
For example, latex and oil-based paints may not stick to the lampshade and could cause the fabric to wrinkle or peel over time. Additionally, some fabrics may require a primer before being painted in order to ensure the paint will properly adhere.
Keep in mind that the brighter or more vibrant the colors you choose for your lampshade, the more coats of paint will be needed for it to look its best. Furthermore, make sure to apply a sealer after painting the lampshade to further protect its colors and material.
Can you paint a fabric lampshade with wall paint?
Yes, you can paint a fabric lampshade with wall paint. Many people use fabric spray paint to get a better looking result, but it is possible to paint the lampshade with wall paint if you have the right supplies and techniques.
First, you’ll need to clean the lampshade and make sure it is completely dry before painting. Next, prime the lampshade with a special primer made for fabric so that the paint adheres to it properly.
After the primer is completely dry, you can then paint the lampshade with the wall paint of your choice, making sure to apply thin layers of paint and wait a few hours between each coat. Finally, allow the paint to dry completely before using the lampshade.
How do you cover a lampshade with fabric?
Covering a lampshade with fabric is a fun, easy project that can give an old lampshade new life. Here’s what you’ll need to complete the task:
– Fabric of your choice
– Scissors
– Glue gun
– Lampshade
– Pencil and ruler
– Staples and/or upholstery nails (optional)
First, measure the circumference and height of your lampshade and then use these measurements to cut the fabric. You’ll want to add an inch or two to both measurements to allow for the fabric to pleat.
If the fabric you’re using has distinguishable patterns and/or designs, make sure they’re positioned when you cut the fabric to appear consistent when it’s wrapped around the lampshade.
Next, place the fabric on a flat, clean surface and use a pencil and ruler to draw a guide line against the fabric’s hemmed edge. Mark guide lines at every inch to help ensure accuracy when you create the fabric pleat.
To create the pleat, fold the fabric along the guide line then double the fold and press into place with your fingers.
After that, it’s time to glue the fabric pleats to the lampshade. Hardly use the hot glue gun to secure each pleat to the lamp, working from the top all the way to the bottom. As you work your way down, hold the fabric with one hand and use the other to apply the glue.
If you’d prefer to use staples or upholstery nails, apply them as you’re gluing the fabric.
Lastly, wait for the glue or nails to cool or dry and then trim any excess fabric. You’re now done and the lampshade is ready to be used.
Can you use any fabric to cover a lampshade?
It is not recommended to use any fabric to cover a lampshade. Certain materials can be flammable and could be a fire hazard. The best fabrics to use for lampshades are those that are flame retardant or are labeled specifically for lampshade covering, like silk, linen, or cotton.
Even when using these fabrics, make sure they are properly secured, and that there is no fraying. If covering a plastic or metal lampshade, double-sided tape can be used. If covering one made of paper or fabric, craft glue or hot glue can be used.
Make sure the glue used is approved for lampshades. When constructing a lampshade, use a frame and build outward. Ensure that the fabric is taut and secure. If the shade will be used frequently, make sure to use fabric greater than the specified wattage of the light bulb.
When in doubt, it is best to check with an expert or purchase a pre-made shade.
What fabric can I use to cover a lampshade?
When covering a lampshade, it’s important to choose a fabric that will both look attractive and function properly in a light fixture. There are a variety of fabrics to choose from that would work well for covering a lampshade.
Silk is a popular choice because of its soft texture, attractive sheen and good light absorption qualities. It is available in a range of colors, from neutral to more vibrant hues. Velvet is another good option for creating a stylish and sophisticated lampshade.
It provides a softer and warmer light source than silk, and the colors and textures can be quite varied. Linen is a lighter weight fabric that is both sturdy and visually pleasing, and it will darken the color of a light bulb.
There are sheer organza and sheer chiffon fabrics on the market now that filter light and still give off a warm glow when lit. Cotton can also be used to create lampshades and there is typically an array of colors and textures available.
Most fabrics can be tailored to fit the shape of your lampshade and, depending on the type of fabric, may require interfacing or additional reinforcement to maintain its shape under the light source.
How can I change the color of my lamp shade?
In order to change the color of your lamp shade, you will need to first select the type of shade you would like to have, as the process of changing colors will depend on the material and construction of the shade.
Generally, it is recommended that shades made of paper, fabric, and metal be replaced entirely, as they are not designed to be painted or altered. However, shades made of glass or plastic can usually be sprayed with a new color of paint.
If you decide to paint your lamp shade with a spray paint, it is best to first remove the shade from the lamp. Once you have the shade, clean it with a soft cloth and soapy water to remove any dirt or dust.
Once the shade is completely dry, mask off any areas you want to remain the same color, such as motifs or labels, and make sure to cover the surrounding area in order to avoid any overspray. Once the shade and area are masked, use a primer that is made for plastics and metals and spray it over the shade.
This will help the new paint adhere better. Once the primer is completely dry, you can spray the shade with the color of your choice. Make sure to let the paint dry completely between coats, then put the shade back on the lamp and enjoy your new color.
Is acrylic paint flammable?
No, acrylic paint is not generally considered flammable. Acrylic paint is water-based, which means it is composed of pigments suspended in a water-soluble vehicle. This means that acrylic paint will burn, but it will not spread a flame and is not likely to ignite a combustible material.