How to Dye a White Lampshade

Make over an inexpensive white lampshade with textile dye.

Plain, white lampshades sell more inexpensively at home goods stores, making them an obvious choice for budget-savvy decorators. White lampshades, however, have a few drawbacks. A white shade won't contain as much light as a colored or patterned lampshade, which may result in a harsh, bright light. White shades also show dust and wear more quickly. You could change up the color of your white lampshade by re-covering it completely, but dyeing is a cost-effective and faster solution that requires fewer skills.

Things You'll Need

• Liquid textile dye
• Warm water
• Liquid measuring device
• Large plastic bucket
• Stir stick
• Spray bottle
• Ball of string

Instructions

1. Add your liquid dye and warm water to the bucket. Use a bucket that's taller and wider than your lampshade so you can completely submerge the shade, and add enough mixed dye solution to totally cover the shade when you dip it. Use the proportions listed on the dye's instructions, and mix thoroughly. For a stronger, brighter color, slightly decrease the amount of water you add; for a lighter, more transparent color, increase the amount of water.

2. Fill your spray bottle with water and turn its nozzle to the mist setting. Evenly spray water all over the lampshade until the shade's fabric is damp. Do not over-spray; if you accidentally saturate the shade with water, allow it to dry completely and try again.

3. Grab your lampshade by the top of its inner wire frame. Dip the shade into the bucket, and completely submerge it. Pull the shade out of the liquid, and check the color. Dip again for additional saturation.

4. Hang the shade outside to dry. Use a length of string to tie the top of the lamp's wire frame from a tree branch or clothesline.

Tips & Warnings

• Test the dye on a scrap piece of fabric before you use it on your lamp. Use the same type of fabric from which your lampshade was constructed.

• To create a patterned effect, try using spray adhesive to attach fabric shapes such as stars, stripes or animal silhouettes before you begin dyeing. Leave the fabric shapes on the shade until the dye has completely set, and then gently peel them away to reveal crisp, white shapes. Practice first on test fabrics to get the best results.

• Before you purchase your dye, check the label on your lampshade to make sure you're using the appropriate type of dye for your lampshade's fabric.

• Protect your hands during the dyeing process by wearing rubber gloves. Wear an apron or a worn-out T-shirt for this project to avoid staining your clothes. Pull back long hair. Spread a tarp over your work area before you begin the dyeing process.

References

• "The Home Guide to Craft"; Katherine Sorrell and Howard Sooley; 2004
• Design*Sponge; "DIY Project: Dip-Dye Lampe and Pillow"; Kate Pruitt; June 30, 2010