A DIY Drum Shade Swag

A drum swag lamp shade is a drum-shaped shade that attaches to any size lamp. Before you can create this project, you have to have a top and bottom washer ring for the top and bottom of the shade that will screw into the lamp when finished. The rings will provide the stabilization necessary for the shade. You can make any color of pattern of shade, depending on the fabric used. Make sure you use the appropriate sized washers for your lamp base to avoid the risk of fire.

Things You'll Need

• 2 shade washers
• Measuring tape
• Thin, flexible plastic
• Fabric
• Scissors
• Brush-on glue
• Paintbrush
• Tacky glue
• Clothespins
• Embellishing trim
• Beaded chain (optional)
• Small nail (optional)
• Jewelry pliers

Instructions

1. Measure the circumference of the washers. Add one inch to this measurement.

2. Cut a piece of thin, flexible plastic to the length of measurement. Make the width of the shade between 9 and 12 inches, depending on the size of the lamp. Cut a piece of fabric the same measurements as the plastic.

3. Brush some glue onto the plastic sheet. Place the fabric on top of the plastic sheet and remove any wrinkles. Before the glue dries, apply a long bead of tacky glue to the top and bottom edges. Wrap the lamp washers along the top ½ inch of each side of the plastic. Use clothespins to hold the shade in place. Allow the shade to dry overnight.

4. Add any additional glue where necessary to fix any gaps. Glue the two sides of the plastic together as well. Remove the clothespins.

5. Add a border of trim to the base of the lampshade with glue, if desired. You can also string a beaded chain below the lampshade to give the shade a chandelier-like appearance. Poke tiny holes into the plastic and wrap the ends of the chain through the holes using jewelry pliers.