Lamp shades can transform your space with their stunning style and uniqueness. These are an essential part of any lightning fixture that can upgrade the ambiance of your room. Custom made lamp shades can make a huge difference in the appearance and atmosphere of your room, so don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with them.
However, lamp shades can also get damaged, worn out, or outdated over time. Due to this, you might need to change them for a fresh look. Whether you want to make your own custom lampshades from scratch, repair your existing lampshade, or replace it with a new one.
In this blog, I'll help you to know more about all these processes and share some tips and tricks along the way. So let's roll into this.
Make Custom Lamp Shades from Scratch
If you are the one with a creative mindset in making unique things or want to be then you must try to make a custom lamp shade. This not only makes you more attached with the lamp shade but also can reflect your personality and style. With some basic materials and tools, you can make your own custom lampshade. Here are the steps to follow:
The Shape and Size
According to the shape and size of your lamp shade, start your preparation. You can use an old lamp shade as a template. Measure the height and diameter of your lamp base and harp to determine the dimensions of your lamp shade.
The Fabric and Lining
In the next step, you would need the fabric and lining of your lampshade. For this, you can use any fabric which can be silk, cotton, linen, or any. Moreover, you can use paper such as card stock, kozo, or parchment. Make sure the fabric or paper is not too thick or too transparent. It must match the color and style of your lamp base and room.
You will also need a lining material, like pressure-sensitive styrene which is a flame-resistant plastic sheet that adheres to the fabric or paper. It will give the shape and structure to your lampshade.
Don't Forget the Measurements
After you choose the fabric and lining, you must cut this according to the measurement. You may need to cut a rectangular piece of fabric and lining that covers the entire circumference, and height, plus some extra for seams and edges. With the help of a rule, pencil, and scissors you can mark and cut the fabric and lining.
It's Time to Glue
Now, you need to glue the fabric and lining together with a special lamp shade glue. It attaches the fabric and lining without leaving any marks or bubbles. You can also use a wooden stick or a toothpick to apply the glue along the edges of the lining.
Then press the fabric over it, smoothing out any wrinkles or creases. You can also use clothespins to hold the fabric and lining together until the glue dries.
Attach the Lamp Shade Rings
Now, you will require two lamp shade rings, one for the top and the other for the bottom of your lampshade. The rings are metal wires or bars that support the lampshade and connect it to the lamp harp. Out of different types of rings such as washer, uno, and clip-on, you can choose any.
It must depend on the style and size of your lamp base and harp. Then you will also need to glue the fabric and lining to the rings, folding and trimming the excess material.
It's Time to Show Your Creativity
With your creative mindset, you can add some decorative elements such as trim, soutache, beads, and fringe to your lampshade. You can also paint or stencil your lamp shade with acrylic or spray paint, or use other techniques like decoupage, embroidery, or applique.
Make a diffuser, a thin fabric or paper sheet, that covers the bottom of the lampshade and softens the light.
The Final Touch
Lastly, you need to attach the lampshade to the lamp base. For this, you can use a harp, a finial, an adapter, or a riser to secure the lamp shade to the lamp base. It may depend on the type of ring and lamp base you have. You can also adjust the height and angle of the lampshade to suit your preference.
How to Repair Damaged Lampshade?
When you find your lampshade is damaged, not beyond repair, then you can fix it by yourself. Here are some of the common problems and their solutions:
Torn or Stained Piece
If you see any torn or stained fabric or paper, you can patch it up with a matching piece of fabric or paper using lampshade glue or fabric glue. You can cover the tear or stain with decorative elements such as a patch, a sticker, or a ribbon.
Loose or Broken Lamp Shade Ring
You can fix this issue by tightening the ring by bending it with pliers. Else, can replace it with a new one of the same size and type. Glue the ring to the fabric and lining, or use a wire or a thread to secure it.
Cracked or Warped Lining
For such an issue, you can replace the lining with a new piece of pressure-sensitive styrene. You can also use a hair dryer or a heat gun to smooth out the cracks or warps. Using a spray adhesive or double-sided tape, you can also stick the lining to the fabric or paper.
When You Need to Replace the Lampshade?
The replacement of lampshades must be done when it is too old, worn out, or outdated. All these signs say you need to replace it with a new one. Here are some tips that may help you:
Measurement of Lamp Base and Harp
You must know the height and diameter of your lamp base and harp and type of harp. This will help you to choose the right size and shape of your lamp shade and the type of ring you need.
Choose the Style and Color of Lampshade
For trending styles and colors, you can browse through various online or offline stores. Also, look for inspiration from magazines, blogs, or social media. Make sure the lampshade matches the lamp base and the room decor.
Try the Lampshade on the Lamp Base
Before your final purchase, make sure you try it on your lamp base and see how it looks and fits. You can also take pictures and videos to get a better idea. Check the quality, durability, and safety of the lampshade and read its reviews and ratings.
Some Popular Lamp Shade Styles
Out of many lampshade styles, here are some of the popular ones:
Drum Style Lampshade
This style has a cylindrical shape with equal top and bottom diameters. It is a versatile and modern style type that works well with most lamp bases and room decors.
Empire Style Lampshade
It has a tapered shape with a smaller top diameter and a larger bottom diameter. It is a classic and elegant style that suits round or candlestick bases and traditional or transitional interiors.
Bell Style Lampshade
It has a curved shape with a smaller top diameter and a flared bottom diameter. It is a graceful and romantic style that complements ornate or dainty bases and classic or vintage interiors.
Square Style Lampshade
This lampshade has a rectangular shape with four flat sides and sharp corners. It is a sleek and contemporary style that matches square or angular bases and modern or minimalist interiors.
Coolie Style Lampshade
It has a very small top diameter and a very large bottom diameter. It is a unique and trendy style that pairs well with cylindrical or dainty bases and eclectic or bohemian interiors.
However, these are just some of the many lampshade styles available. Besides these, you can also find other shapes such as hexagons, domes, pagodas, and more. The best lamp shade style for you must be according to your personal choice.
End Notes!
I hope this blog gave you some helpful insights into how you can make, repair, or replace custom lamp shades. If you are looking to buy one for yourself then you must visit Fenchel Shades, America's favorite lampshade company. Along with custom lamp shades, you can explore lighting fixtures, lampshade coverings, accessories, and more.
We elevate your shopping experience by giving you an excellent place for lampshades. You can shop by following categories:
- Color
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Moreover, for unique customization, you can choose our expert mode which gives you advanced configuration options. If you have any additional queries then go ahead. Share your query or review with us. We love to hear from you. Happy Shopping!
