How to Make a Fabric Hanging Lamp

Hanging lamps are a popular lighting option. These lamps add not only attractive light to a room but also a unique style. You can bring even more style to your rooms with hanging lamps that you craft yourself. Find some great looking fabric that compliments your decor and learn how easy it is to make a fabric hanging lamp for your home.

Things You'll Need

• Lampshade frame (12- to 18-inch diameter)
• Hanging lamp kit
• 1 1/2 yards cotton fabric
• 3/8-inch wide elastic
• Sewing machine
• Sewing notions (thread, scissors, pins)
• Iron
• Safety pins

Instructions

1. Fold under the long edges of the fabric 2 inches and press the fold well. Machine-stitch 1 1/2 inches from the folded edge to make a casing for the elastic. Do the same fold and stitching with the other long edge.

2. Place the fabric together with right sides facing and sew the short edges together with a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Do not sew across the openings of the casings.

3. Thread the elastic through each casing and temporarily secure the ends with safety pins.

4. Turn the fabric to the right side and slip it over the lampshade frame. Pull the elastic ends tightly around the bottom of the lampshade frame and tie a double knot in the elastic. Pull the elastic ends tightly around the top of the lampshade frame and tie a double knot in the elastic. Clip the ends of the elastic and slip them into the casing. Adjust the fabric to look neat.

5. Place the hanging lamp socket into the lampshade frame through the top and place a light bulb into the socket. Thread the cording out the top and attach the hardware necessary to secure the socket in the lampshade.

6. Hang the lamp by hooks in your desired location.

Resources

• Lamp Shade Frame
• Hanging Lamp Kit