How to Make Faux Fiberglass Lampshades

Use spray paint to create a faux fiberglass lampshade.

Fiberglass cloth has an unusual texture and appearance; this large woven fabric creates a unique lampshade, especially when painted. The cloth attaches to a lampshade frame securely with hot glue. Spray paint is the perfect medium for finishing a faux fiberglass lampshade; you can create decorative shapes on the lampshade using cardboard cutouts as stencils. When making a fiberglass lampshade, it is best to use a lampshade frame with a connected bottom and top ring. The support is needed to maintain the shape of the shade.

Things You'll Need

• Lampshade frame
• Ruler
• Pencil
• Fiberglass cloth
• Scissors
• Hot glue
• Newspaper
• Spray paint

Instructions

1. Measure the distance from the top and bottom ring on the lampshade, then measure the circumference of the largest lampshade ring. Add 1 inch to each measurement.

2. Measure, mark and cut a strip of fiberglass fabric to the determined measurements.

3. Lay the fiberglass fabric on a flat, stable surface such as a table. Lay the lampshade frame on its side. Center the frame widthwise on the fabric.

4. Begin on either side of the lampshade rings. Fold the extra 1/2 inch of fiberglass fabric over the top of the ring. Squeeze a strip of hot glue under the fold; press the folded fabric onto the glue to secure. Repeat the process around the entire ring. Note: There will be a 1-inch overlap at the seam. Do not glue this area yet.

5. Flip the lampshade around to work with the second ring. Repeat the gluing process to attach the fiberglass fabric to the ring.

6. Gently separate the 1-inch seam of fiberglass fabric that extends from the top to the bottom of the lampshade. Insert the tip of the glue gun in the seam and squeeze a bead from the top to the bottom ring. Place a hand on the inside and outside of the lampshade and press firmly along the seam to secure.

7. Lay several sheets of newspaper on a flat, stable surface. Sit the glued fiberglass fabric lampshade on the center of the newspaper.

8. Shake the spray paint can one to three minutes. Hold the can 12 inches from the lampshade. Spray a light coat of paint over the entire surface. Let dry for 10 minutes. Repeat the process until the desired color is achieved.

Tips & Warnings

• Add shapes to the lampshade by holding cutout cardboard stencils in front of the shade and spraying the area with the desired color; repeat the process to attain the desired hue.