How to Make Lampshades With Butterflies

Lampshade with butterflies

Transforming a plain lampshade into a colorful one with lots of pretty fabric butterflies can be an enjoyable project. (Before you know it, you'll want to put those butterflies on other things as well.) Most of the work here is cutting out the butterflies, but time will pass quickly.

Things You'll Need

• Lightweight fabric printed with colorful butterflies (one yard with mixed butterflies for a medium size shade)
• Light-colored lampshade with smooth outer finish
• White glue
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Choose butterfly fabric with colors that will complement the color scheme of the room where the decorated shade will be used. Carefully cut out many butterflies from the fabric and put them aside; too many for the project is better. Be sure to cut butterflies in different sizes as well as for a nice assortment.

2. Decide on the kind of design of butterfly placement on the lampshade. It can be along the bottom and top or simply attached in a random fashion. Visually divide the lampshade in four quarters. Choose a fabric butterfly and apply white glue on the wrong side just inside the edges. Turn it over and press it onto the lampshade where placement is desired. Smooth the fabric down. If necessary, lift an edge where the fabric is not secure and add a little white glue, and then press down.

3. Add another butterfly on the opposite side of the lampshade from the first one that was attached. Then apply one at a point halfway between the first two and also on the opposite side. Then add remaining fabric butterflies as desired around the lampshade as desired to create a balanced design. Mix large, medium and small butterflies in the design. Smooth down all the butterflies to make sure they are flat and secured to the lampshade. Add a drop or two of white glue where necessary and press down. Let dry, then place the lampshade on the lamp and enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• It's best to use a light-colored lampshade so that the butterflies stand out when the lamp is turned on. Fabric with butterfly prints is available in fabric stores. The designs come in different designs. It's hard to decide how many butterflies may be needed for a project, depending on the size of the lampshade. Always plan on purchasing more fabric than may be necessary. The butterflies can always be used on other projects.