How to Decoupage a Lampshade With Paper Bags

If you love the look of leather but don't want to go through the time and expense of learning the trade of leather working, this faux leather lampshade made with plain paper bags and decoupage glue just may be the project you've been dreaming about.

Things You'll Need

• Brown paper bags
• Decoupage glue
• Lampshade
• Spray bottle
• Hot glue gun
• Glue sticks
• Foam brush
• Ribbon/decorative cord
• Miniatures (optional)

Instructions

1. Purchase a new white, off-white or light tan lampshade, or use a recycle one. Look at yard sales for old light-colored lampshades that are still in good condition. Check in secondhand or thrift stores, where you can often purchase an entire lamp for a few dollars.

2. Clean recycled lampshades with a damp cloth to remove any dirt, dust and debris. Dry thoroughly before beginning this project.

3. Cut paper bags along the seam and open fully. Cut into sheets and lay them flat. Spray with a mist of clean water to dampen the sheets of paper bags. Crumple the sheet tightly to form a paper ball. Open the ball and smooth flat, but do not attempt to remove the wrinkles.

4. Tear the paper bag into irregular pieces of varying sizes, no larger than 3 inches. Take a torn piece of paper and coat it with decoupage glue using a small foam brush. Glue the section of paper to the outside of the lampshade. Apply a coat of decoupage glue to the outside of the torn paper piece. Repeat the process with the remaining pieces, overlapping portions as you glue them to the lampshade. Cover all areas of the shade so there are no blank spots.

5. Touch up any areas that appear dry with the decoupage glue and smooth any rough edges. Allow to dry completely.

6. Cut a strip of decorative trim or ribbon to the appropriate length and glue around the top rim of the lampshade. Repeat for the bottom rim. Add decorative features like antique buttons or tiny bits of metal to simulate brads, if desired. Miniature horse shoes, cowboy hats or silhouettes of horses work well with this project.

7. Place the completed lampshade on the lamp and display in any area of your home. Large lamps create a bold statement in your living room or study. A small lamp looks wonderful tucked into a tight space where the soft glow will show off your handiwork.

Tips & Warnings

• Decoupaged lampshades make wonderful gifts.

• Spread old newspapers on your work area to make cleanup quick and easy and to prevent damaging your work surface.