How to Cover a Lamp Shade

Do you have an ugly, old lamp shade that doesn't match the furniture? Don't throw it away! Cover it and make it look new.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fabric Pencils
• Fabrics
• Irons
• Lamp Shades
• Paper-backed Fusible Webbing
• Scissors
• Scissors

1. Cut the old fabric from the lamp shade with scissors.

2. Place your fabric of choice print-side down. The fabric should be at least 4 feet wide for a large lamp shade.

3. Lay the lamp-shade frame on its side on the fabric.

4. Begin an inch in from the bottom corner and roll the lamp shade along, tracing the shape lightly with a pencil or disappearing-ink marker.

5. Add an inch to the pattern and cut it out carefully. If there are corners, cut a small V to allow the material a little give.

6. Use fusible webbing and an iron to fasten the fabric to the frame. Do the sides first and the bottom last.

7. Trim any extra fabric and webbing away.

Tips & Warnings

• These instructions are not intended for a pleated lamp shade.
• If you're careful when removing the old cover, you can use it as a pattern instead. Be sure to leave an extra inch around the outside. It's better to have some left over and to cut it off than to not have enough for the webbing to stick to.
• Reduce fire hazards by making sure that the fabric is at least 3 inches away from the light bulb.

[dcsp]

on 5/2/2009 I learned how to make fabric covered soft lampshades (the kind with a lining, Victorian shades, etc.) the way professionals do it from an e-book found at shadecrafters.com. It turned out to be a whole lot easier than I thought it would be.

[thatlinda]

on 3/28/2009 I have old lamp shades that I was going to recover, but don't have the time. I was wanted to know if anyone knows where I can sell them?

[AnniesHorses]

on 12/29/2008 This is very exciting. I hope I will take the time to do a project! annie

[Lampology]

on 11/14/2008 Covering a lamp shade and making it look good is a job for us, see our web site www.jenniannproducts.com.au Fill in the enquiry form or give us a call and ask for Roger; he will give you all the advise you need about finding the right shade for your base. Ph: [phone].

on 11/22/2005 I wanted a tiger print. Copied a scarf on a copier & cut out each section in 3 templates. Used black, brown & yellow fabric paints. Start with yellow paint for the background, black for out & brown, inner. You can freehand the design if you like. GRRRR!