One of my favorite local stores has some truly creative pieces within its walls, and one such piece was a very cute, shabby lampshade made with strips of fabric. I really wanted it … but it was $55. I gave it a good once-over and decided, “yep, I can make that myself.” And so I did.
It was a pretty easy project, just time consuming because it takes a lot of fabric strips.
Grab yourself an old wire lampshade frame. Or even a new one would do.
I found this one at our local flea market.
Cut long strips from a variety of fabrics. I used 3 different types of fabric – stuff I had on hand.
A combination of drop cloth, muslin, and an old Lill curtain from Ikea.
Then just tie the strips onto the top of the lampshade.
I didn’t measure the width of the strips when cutting, I just eyeballed it.
You just keep tying them on making it fairly full. You don’t want to see the frame underneath.
Once you have enough fabric tied on, you simply give the lampshade a haircut to the desired length.
Again, I just eyed this part and left some strips slightly longer than others to keep it shabby.
The lampshade in the store had butterflies stapled on haphazardly, so I did the same.
I found these paper butterflies on Etsy. There are several styles, or you could make your own.
If you make your own, be sure to use a heavy card stock.
Here she is lit up. I found an old metal lampstand at the flea market for $10.
I painted it in ASCP Old White and gave it a coat of both clear and dark wax.
The dark wax was applied very sparingly to give it an antique finish.
I think the shade would be cute as a fixture hanging from the ceiling.
I think the shade would be cute as a fixture hanging from the ceiling.
So for about $25 I not only got the lamp shade but a lampstand, as well.
You could use any fabric to make the shade match any room in your house.
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Can you just stop impressing me for one minute? I don’t think so! LOL Love this lampshade, and thanks for the “how-to” because I just might try this myself. (I say might, because if it doesn’t turn out, I’m not sharing it and nobody will ever know. LOL)
Laura / Pet Scribbles recently posted…DIY Faux Metal Wall Art
Jennifer ,
The idea is fabulous but, the glow from the lamp is enchanting. Love it!
Karen Marie
Jennifer, this is absolutely gorgeous! Such shabby chic goodness. 🙂