Unconditional harmony should reign in the interior of the room, therefore, when decorating it, it is necessary to take into account every detail, even if it seems trivial at first. Lighting devices always play an important role in design, which can often even become the central element of the overall design. However, it is not always possible to purchase the desired option - for the banal reason of the lack of the necessary design solution in the offered assortment.
In such cases, some homeowners have a desire to put their own efforts into interior design. And especially such a solution arises in those situations where beautiful bases remain from old chandeliers, floor lamps or table lamps. Therefore, this publication will consider the question of how to make a lampshade with your own hands for different types of lighting fixtures. Perhaps one of the proposed solutions will allow you to save some money from the family budget and at the same time acquire an exclusive piece of general decoration for the room, which will certainly become a source of personal pride for the master.
Advantages of making your own lampshade
There are a number of advantages to making your own lampshade for any type of lamp. And these circumstances should be taken into account when the question arises of whether to buy this element of interior decor or make it yourself.
Option for a homemade lampshade for a table lamp or floor lamp - There is an opportunity to end up with an exclusive model of a lighting fixture.
- The master has a much wider choice of decorative design of the lighting fixture, corresponding to the general design direction of the interior.
- Very significant savings are achieved.
- For work, it is quite possible to use things that have accumulated in home pantries, which take up quite a lot of space, but it would be a pity to throw them away for one reason or another. So, in many houses there are lamps that are quite functional and interesting in their shape, but have long gone out of fashion. Any of them will be suitable for creating a new product.
- You should never discount the “psychological component” - the opportunity to clearly demonstrate to everyone your own creative ambitions, and then to be deservedly proud of the manufactured product.
- It is possible and even necessary to involve a child in the joint production of a lampshade - this is an excellent opportunity to instill in him the desire to create useful things with his own hands. In addition, time spent together and creative communication “as equals” will definitely benefit both parents and children.
We hope the arguments are quite convincing. Therefore, you can move closer to the practical part.
Safety of selected materials
The principle here is simple - a homemade lampshade should not pose a danger. We are, of course, primarily talking about fire safety, since any lighting device emits a certain amount of heat during operation.
When producing lighting fixtures on an industrial scale, technologists from responsible companies calculate the safe distance from the lamp to the lampshade material. This distance is determined depending on the power of the lamps that are recommended for installation in a particular lamp, and on the degree of heat resistance of the material used to create the lampshade.
When making lampshades yourself, it is important to consider the degree of heat resistance and flammability of the materials used. - Homemade lamps use only certain types of lamps that do not heat up to high temperatures. Thus, incandescent lamps should be completely excluded, in which the lion's share of consumed electricity is converted into banal heating, and often to very high temperatures. The fact that it is extremely uneconomical is not so bad. But the “neighborhood” of the lampshade material with a source of strong heat is extremely unsafe!
Today, there is no shortage of other light sources in the assortment of stores - these are LED or compact fluorescent energy-saving models. Moreover, they all must have reliable bases made of ceramic or metal. The cost of such lamps is, of course, much higher than that of incandescent lamps, but the heating here does not reach critically high temperatures. Plus, add a long service life and a calm, even, but quite powerful luminous flux.
- Highly flammable materials - synthetic or cotton fabric, plastic threads, wooden parts, as well as paper or cardboard from which the lampshade can be made must be at a distance of at least 50÷70 mm from the lamp.
- Having made the lampshade and installed it on the lamp, it is recommended to observe the intensity of heating of its walls. If you feel heating of the material, which can be described as more than warm, then you should change the light bulb to a less powerful one (we mean power consumption, and not a conditional criterion for assessing the brightness of the glow).
What is very important to know about the characteristics of lamps and lighting devices?
Before choosing, manufacturing, installing lighting fixtures, it is strongly recommended to obtain some theoretical knowledge in this matter. The various methods for calculating room illumination are described in great detail in a special publication on our portal.
Varieties of lampshades according to design principle and material of manufacture
A few words need to be said about the types of lampshades, those that can be made at home. They can be divided according to the principle of design and material of manufacture.
Frame and frameless structures
By design, such products can be divided into frame and frameless.
Example of a frame for a lampshade - Frame lampshades have a rigid base on which one of the selected materials is fixed. The frames can have different shapes - its choice depends on the preference and imagination of the master, as well as on the availability of the material necessary for manufacturing. The advantage of this type of lampshade is that the frame immediately determines the distance between the external finishing material and the lamp, and then maintains it throughout the entire life of the lamp. In addition, the product acquires rigidity, thanks to which its original shape is preserved.
Lampshade made using frameless technology - Frameless lampshade. In this embodiment, the role of the frame is played by the material from which the product is made. In order for the lampshade to acquire the desired shape, a template is made as a temporary base, onto which the selected material is fixed with glue. The base is removed after the glue has completely dried.
When choosing this method, you must immediately calculate at what level inside the lampshade the light bulb will be located, taking into account that a certain distance must be maintained between it and the lampshade.
The advantage of this product is its light weight. The disadvantage is the fact that if the shape of the lampshade is accidentally deformed, its walls can get dangerously close to the lamp, which will lead to overheating of the material, which can lead to melting and fire. This is especially true for lampshades made for floor lamps, the shape of which can be damaged by accidental mechanical impact.
What materials are used for the external decoration of the lampshade?
A very wide variety of materials are successfully used to make homemade lampshades. Some of them don’t even have to be purchased - they can be found in the household, and sometimes even lie under your feet, and almost in the literal sense of the word.
| Illustration | Description of the material, its advantages and disadvantages |
|---|---|
 | Textile.
Only frame versions of lampshades are sheathed with it. It is not recommended to use synthetic materials, as they do not withstand heat well and can shrink, melt and fade. Cotton or linen are perfect for lining. It will be better if the fabric is treated with a special water-repellent impregnation, thanks to which the lampshade will also attract less dust. |
 | Threads or yarn.
This version of the material is most often used to create a frameless lampshade, but is sometimes used to cover the frame. To form a lampshade from threads, different versions of them with a thickness of 1 to 5 mm are used. |
 | Rope.
Rope of different thicknesses is also used for making. It covers the finished frame in different variations, and also assembles frameless lampshade models. It is best to use twine made from natural materials - they are especially suitable for lamps made in eco-style. |
 | Ribbons of different widths are suitable both for forming weaving around the frame and for frameless versions of decorative lampshades. |
 | Hand woven lace
made of cotton threads is used for fastening to the frame and forming a frameless lampshade. Instead of lace, you can use fragments cut from tulle with a suitable pattern. |
 | Hand knitted fabrics
, having different designs can also become an excellent decoration for the lampshade frame. They can be knitted specifically for a specific product, or you can use for this purpose ready-made items of clothing that have completely gone out of fashion or simply stopped being liked. |
 | Wooden parts
- branches, planks, slats, etc. are also often used to make lampshades. Thin, peeled and specially treated branches are used for weaving lampshades; thicker ones are installed as a palisade or cut into small pieces and randomly assembled into the chosen shape. Thin planks themselves are capable of forming a frame, while simultaneously performing a decorative function. Some craftsmen prepare plywood parts with through threads, which, when the lamp is turned on, gives a beautiful shadow on the walls. |
 | Plastic fittings
, which are sold in sewing stores and used to decorate clothes, are also used to create lampshades or lampshades. You can add beads or buttons of different sizes and shapes to this category of materials. |
 | Origami
is a technique for working with paper and cardboard, from which various decorative parts are made, including lampshades for lighting fixtures. The advantage of such decorative products is the speed of production (if you have some experience, of course) and the ability to change them depending on your mood or the need to decorate the room for a specific holiday. The disadvantage is the fragility of lampshades made of paper and cardboard. |
In addition to the materials listed above, the most unexpected creative elements can be used to create homemade masterpieces - rings from metal cans, vases, ordinary kitchen graters, clock gears and much more. You just have to use your imagination...
Making a frame lampshade
How and from what can a frame be made?
If a frame version of the lampshade is chosen for manufacturing, then a logical question immediately arises - where to get it or from what and how to make the frame yourself. This stage of work can be called the first when creating a product.
If you plan to update the lampshade on an old floor lamp, chandelier or table lamp, in which the frame remains intact, then it can be used, decorated with new material. The old casing is removed from the base. Then the frame is carefully inspected, if necessary, cleaned of rust, and then painted.
If the lighting fixture is being created anew, or in the case where the frame is missing or has become unusable, you can purchase an old lampshade, for example, at a flea market, and perform the manipulations described above with it.
Well, if this option does not triple or is impossible, you will have to do it yourself.
Frame from a waste basket
One of those options that does not require you to make a lot of effort to create a frame is to buy a metal basket for office waste.
You can find metal and plastic baskets on sale, but for the lampshade it is recommended to choose the first option. If the size and shape of the product is suitable, then the problem with the frame will be solved. A neat hole is cut out in the bottom of the basket to install a lamp socket, which should be securely secured to the mesh surface. By the way, the bottom of many baskets is a solid metal plate, which means it can be even easier to secure the cartridge.
Often it is not enough to completely cover the basket, but only to carefully paint it and use several decorative elements Sometimes, for the intended lampshade, it is enough to carefully paint the mesh surfaces in the desired color and decorate the top or bottom line with fabric, braid, etc. You can cover the frame completely with one of the above-mentioned materials. Design options are unlimited.
Wire frame
The most common material for making a frame is thick wire. If steel wire is used, then connections when assembling the frame can be made using spot welding. However, such technology is available to few, and, as a rule, most home craftsmen fasten individual parts together using the twisting method.
Steel wire has considerable rigidity and elasticity, and it is quite difficult to twist together parts with a thickness of, say, 3 mm. Therefore, some nodes are made using thinner wire, which secures the connections of the main frame elements.
Fixing turns of thick elastic steel wire with thin soft windings, such as copper If the twisting method is chosen for connection, aluminum wire is often used. It is not difficult to work with, but it is too plastic and easily deformed. When the frame is covered with decorative cladding, it will, of course, acquire greater rigidity. But when making it, it is necessary to take into account the properties of the wire and act very carefully.
Wire for making the frame can be purchased at a hardware store. But home owners often find quite suitable “free” material in their sheds The advantages of aluminum wire include the same plasticity, since when creating a frame, adjustments can be easily made to it.
To carry out the work, you will need some tools that will probably be found in any home workshop:
— pliers for bending and straightening wire;
- round nose pliers will help bend the ends of the wire for further twisting;
- wire cutters;
- a hammer will also help to straighten individual areas;
— sandpaper for cleaning the surface of steel wire before painting;
- thin copper wire for winding connecting parts;
— soldering iron for connecting copper wire;
- enamel paint and thin brush;
— electrical tape for additional fixation of parts together;
- a wide wooden block on which it will be convenient to straighten the wire and perform soldering.
Several options for wire frames for lampshades Work on the manufacture of the frame is carried out in the following order:
- The shape of the future lampshade is selected and a drawing of the product is made taking into account its dimensions.
- Next, if necessary, the prepared wire is straightened.
- Then, according to the dimensions indicated on the drawing, pieces of wire are cut. Here it is necessary to take into account the overlap of the ends of the wire on each other when forming the upper and lower circles, by at least 150÷200 mm. For the vertical elements that determine the height, the segments should have a greater length than specified in the drawing, by approximately 40 mm. This is necessary to secure them to the frame circumferences.
The frame traditional for a lampshade consists of two large circles - upper and lower, a small ring for holding the socket, 4÷6 vertical holders and 3÷4 horizontal jumpers that will hold the ring for the socket inside the structure.
Naturally, there are much more complex forms of lampshades. In any case, each of the options is made according to the drawing. However, when choosing an overly intricate design, do not forget that cutting and sewing a cover for it will also not be easy.
- If necessary, cut pieces of steel wire are cleaned of rust with sandpaper.
- Next, circles of the required diameter are made. The ends of the wire must be wrapped with copper wire, and it is better to solder the resulting clamp immediately. Another fixation option is insulating tape.
- Then the frame racks are made, which will connect the upper and lower circles and thereby give the structure the outline of a truncated cone. At their ends, using pliers, peculiar loops are bent. With their help, these racks are put first on the upper and then on the lower ring of the frame. The parts must be distributed around the circles so that there is an equal distance between them.
- After this, the rings at the ends of the posts are clamped with pliers. You can finally fix the connections of the parts with copper wire and then solder it, or you can do it easier - wrap it with insulating tape.
The frame is assembled from thick wire, the connections are made overlapping and then fixed with electrical tape - If electrical tape is chosen for fixation, the parts are painted before they are assembled into a single structure. It should be rightly noted that the appearance of a frame fastened in this way is not highly aesthetic. Therefore, this option should be used only for lampshades, the decorative covering of which is a dense opaque material.
Using a metal strip to create a frame - These manufacturing methods are by no means the only possible ones. For example, in combination with wire, you can use a metal strip 10÷12 mm wide. It is convenient in that you can drill holes in it, through which you can then fasten the parts together using screws and nuts, and also secure the cartridge to a threaded coupling.
By the way, the connecting nodes, if the frame is made of thick copper wire or even a tube, can be made simply by soldering - you just need a fairly powerful soldering iron. Yes, and aluminum can be soldered - however, this requires some experience and a certain set of chemicals.
Other frame material options
Perhaps other recommendations on the material for making the frame for the lampshade will be useful for someone. Moreover, all the examples of “raw materials” listed below can be found in almost every home or purchased “for pennies.”
| Illustration | Brief description of the use of materials to create a frame for a lampshade |
|---|---|
 | If you don't have steel or aluminum wire, you can use wire hangers to create the base. The hangers must be untwisted into even sections, which are straightened using pliers. Then frame parts are formed from them. They are connected to each other according to the principle described above, and fixed, for example, using electrical tape. Making a frame from such wire requires less effort, but the base is less rigid and durable. |
 | In hardware stores you can find metal mesh designed for reinforcing surfaces under plaster. They can have different cell sizes. For a lampshade, an option with cells of 15×15 or 20×20 mm is suitable. A frame is formed from a cut-out fragment of the mesh, and to join, the edges are overlapped by one or two cells and tied together with twisted wire. However, from this material it is possible to make a frame only in the form of a cylinder or a truncated cone. If this form does not contradict the general design solution of the room and suits the master, then this option for creating a frame can be called the optimal solution. |
 | You can also use a grille from an old fan to make a lampshade, especially since it has already been given a certain shape of a peculiar spherical segment. If necessary, the frame can be made deeper by attaching an additional tier of wire of the same thickness to the bottom of the grille, or the edges of the lampshade can be lengthened with facing material. |
 | Another option for frame material offered by some craftsmen is five-liter plastic bottles. You can use them in their entirety, removing the bottom part, or cut the walls of the container into strips of the same width. Then the desired shape of the lampshade is created from the strips, and its lower side is fixed to a wire circle, which will give rigidity to the structure. An obvious disadvantage of this material is its deformation when overheated, and also the fact that only a small lampshade can be made from a bottle. |
 | The frame can also be made from embroidery hoops of different shapes and sizes. It can be a lampshade of a traditional configuration, round or semicircular. This material is easy to work with and produces a lightweight and reliable structure. When making a classic lampshade, hoops of different diameters are selected, the upper and lower circles are fastened together with wooden slats. To form the internal part of the structure intended for installing the cartridge, you can use aluminum wire. |
Several options for decorating the lampshade frame
So, as mentioned above, different materials can be used to cover the frame. The most popular options will be presented in this section.
Covering the frame with fabric
In order to sew a traditional fabric lampshade in the shape of a truncated cone or cylinder, you will need a prepared frame, decorative fabric, white cotton or PVC film, thread, glue, scissors, an iron, a silicone hot glue gun, clothespins, and a pattern. The amount of decorative fabric will depend on how you plan to sheathe the frame, whether it will be stretched evenly or whether folds will be formed on it.
The work of decorating the frame is carried out as follows:
- Making a pattern. In order not to spoil the prepared fabric, it is recommended that the first step is to make a paper pattern. Making it is not difficult at all. If the frame has a cylindrical shape, then its diameter and the height of the lampshade are measured. Everything is clear with the height, and the length is calculated using the formula for circumference:
L=π× D
L- frame circumference;
π - a constant that can be taken to be rounded equal to 3.14;
D- cylinder diameter.
As a result, the pattern will be an even strip of fabric. To its calculated length, 20 mm is added for the seam, and to the measured width - 40 mm for the bend on one side and the other.
If the frame has the shape of a truncated cone, then either the development parameters are calculated, or its graphical construction is carried out using a special algorithm. But often they do it much simpler. To do this, paint the outer side of the upper and lower circumference of the frame with a black marker and roll it over a sheet of paper.
Using the marks remaining on it, a pattern is drawn, to which extra millimeters are also added for the bend and seam. The pattern is cut out and applied to the frame, adjusted if necessary, that is, an additional segment is added to it or excess length is removed.
Once the pattern is ready, it is transferred to the fabric, as well as PVC film or lining fabric. Next, the marked parts must be cut out with scissors.
The rolling method is not always suitable. Sometimes you have to draw the development of a truncated cone yourself. If this becomes necessary, you can go to the appendix to this article. Mathematical and graphical methods are described in detail there, and calculators are placed for carrying out the necessary calculations.
- PVC film and fabric are combined with each other, pinned and sewn. Another option for bonding materials is gluing using a very hot iron. Ironing is carried out from the fabric side; when heated, the film melts and sticks to the decorative layer.
Attaching fabric to frame for initial fit - The next step is to secure the fabric first to the upper and then to the lower circumference of the frame using clothespins or office clips. When fastening, it is important to ensure that the fold of the fabric is uniform. The fabric should be well stretched on the frame.
- When the fabric is fitted, marks are made on it along the vertical seam line and along the upper and lower folds. Next, after removing the fabric from the frame, sew a vertical seam using a sewing machine.
- Then the stitched cover is put on the frame and aligned with the upper and lower marks.
Final gluing of the fabric to the frame - The fabric is bent through the wire of the upper circle, melted silicone or superglue is applied to the bend with a gun, after which it is temporarily fixed with clothespins or clamps. Then, the same process is carried out along the line of the lower circle. The glued fabric is left until completely dry.
Adhesive trims that complement the fabric pattern - The final stage of the work may be gluing a satin ribbon along the upper and lower edges of the lampshade in the color of the fabric, or the same material - to complement the unfinished design.
The glued strip must be immediately fixed with clamps or clothespins. After the glue is guaranteed to harden, the temporary fixation is removed.
Finished lampshade on a table lamp - The finished lampshade is placed on a table lamp or other lighting fixture.
The method of attaching the lampshade depends on the characteristics of the lighting fixture. These can be special clamping flanges on the outside of the lamp sockets, a threaded bushing, and more. Any home master can easily deal with this issue.
Covering the frame with tape
This option is available for anyone, even a novice craftsman, since decorating with ribbon is very simple.
To finish the created frame in this case, the following materials will be required:
- Tape of the required color, 15÷20 mm wide. Its quantity will depend on the size parameters of the frame and the intended density of its braid.
- To make the product decorative, a border can be used that is well suited in design and color to the main cladding material.
- Superglue or silicone hot glue gun (gun).
- Clothespins or stationery clips for temporarily fixing the tape while the glue dries.
Stages of lining the frame with tape Decoration work is carried out in the following order:
- The edge of the tape is attached to the upper circumference of the frame using glue and additionally secured with a clothespin.
- When the glue has dried, they carefully begin to wrap the tape around the walls of the frame, winding it through the upper and lower wire circles. When performing this process, the frame circumferences are first lubricated with a small amount of glue (usually in a small area, for several turns) and the tape is fixed with clamps. It is also necessary to take into account that the tape is wound onto the walls so that in the upper part it is more closely aligned with the previously laid one, and at the bottom its strips diverge somewhat, but no gaps are created between them.
- When winding the last turn, the edge of the tape is coated with glue and hidden behind the previous strip.
- After the glue has dried, a border is glued along the bottom edge, and, if desired, along the top edge. Its ends are fixed with an overlap, which is additionally coated with glue.
Decorating the frame with coarse rope
Another interesting option for decorating a metal frame is to braid it with thin twine and coarse rope. There are quite a few ways to decorate a lampshade with this material, and in the example below only one of them will be presented.
To create this lampshade model you will need:
- Frame with frequently spaced side guides.
- Thin twine.
- Twisted rope made from twine.
- Scissors.
- A silicone hot glue gun and several sticks of such glue.
The manufacture of this lampshade is carried out in the following sequence:
- The first step is to secure the end of the thin twine with a loop in the upper part of the frame - the upper circle.
Braiding the side frame guides with twine - Next, each of the metal guides is braided with twine as tightly as possible, using one of the units of the “macrame” technique. In the illustration, one of these simple tying knots is highlighted separately.
Fixing the ends of the twine with silicone hot glue - When a piece of twine runs out, it and the end of a new piece should be secured to a metal stand or circle using silicone hot melt adhesive. Then this area is covered with weaving to make it invisible.
Fixing the rope with twine on the frame - The vertical guides are braided to the level where the horizontal twisted ropes will pass. In order not to miss the height of their passage, it is best to mark the passage points of the horizontal pattern on the metal parts of the frame using a corrector.
- In the designated places, the horizontal rope on the frame posts is firmly fixed with twine.
The result of decorating a metal frame with twine and rope - Such a lampshade can be attached to the ceiling either with the wide side up (shown in the illustration below) or in a suspended position, with the open part of the hemisphere down.
Lampshade mounted on the ceiling in the form of a lampshade - Additionally, the lampshade can be decorated with beads or glass garlands, placed on top of the frame of “butterflies” or attached with artificial flowers.
As you can see, nothing complicated even for a novice master. True, the work may seem tedious, but there is no need to rush, maximum accuracy - and everything will work out.
Making a frameless lampshade
This section will look at three options for frameless lampshades, which are even more affordable than products that require a rigid frame.
There is, however, a fundamental caveat. In order to set the desired shape of the lampshade, a frame (more precisely, a template) will still be required, but it will be temporary. Such a template, which determines the configuration of the product, most often serves as a balloon, inflatable rubber or plastic beach ball.
To make a lampshade in a similar way, various materials are used, but the principle of performing the work remains the same. Of course, each case has its own nuances, which will be discussed below.
Lampshade made of knitted napkins
In this option, you will need several knitted napkins of the same color or several shades that combine well with each other.
A tightly inflated balloon is used as a temporary template. For ease of use, so that the template remains motionless when gluing decorative materials, the ball is placed on a suitable open container, for example, on a pan or bowl of the required diameter.
Making a lampshade from knitted napkins - step by step In addition, prepare a bowl for diluting the glue. In this case, transparent casein glue is sometimes used, which is often used for wallpapering. However, PVA is considered more durable in its qualities, and it is more often used for the manufacture of frameless lampshades.
- So, now you need to soak each of the napkins with glue, and place them in a certain order on the ball template. The elements are completely immersed in the glue until completely saturated, and then wrung out, straightened and laid on a temporary frame. It is taken into account that in the upper part of the future lampshade there should be a hole for mounting a light bulb socket. However, it can be carefully cut out later, after the resulting three-dimensional figure has completely dried. And after cutting, it is best to frame this hole with a plastic ring, placing it on glue and basting it with thread.
- The top one is glued first, and then the side napkins. All of them are laid overlapping each other, approximately 100÷150 mm, so that after drying these fabric parts are securely glued together.
- Now all that remains is to wait until the glue has completely dried, since the lampshade should acquire a certain rigidity due to it.
- When the glue dries, the ball is punctured and deflated, and the lampshade continues to maintain its shape.
Plastic ring framing the hole for the cartridge - Next, a lamp socket with the power cord already connected is installed in the hole. In the lampshade window, this unit is tightened from the outside and inside by special flanges that move along the threads on the outer surface of the socket. This connection will give additional rigidity to the upper part of the lampshade.
"Lace" clothesline lampshade
This lampshade option, made from clothesline, can be used for any type of lamp. Moreover, it can be hung in the form of a classic lampshade or, as in the example discussed below, fixed with the wide side to the ceiling.
Materials for making a lampshade To create this lampshade model you will need to prepare:
Inflatable beach ball. The advantage of such a base is that upon completion of the work, you can simply bleed the air out of it, keeping it intact, and subsequently continue to use it for its intended purpose. Another option is a glass shade, the shape of which will be used to make a decorative lampshade.
Clothesline.
White regular thread and needle for sewing.
Glue intended for design work using the decoupage technique “Mod Podge”. This glue is quite expensive, so it will be easier to make it yourself. To do this, ordinary PVA glue is diluted with clean warm water in a ratio of 2:1, and for greater strength and, if necessary, to give a glossy effect, approximately one tablespoon of colorless water-soluble varnish is added for every 150 ml of glue.
Water-soluble paint - preferably in aerosol form.
Clear or white regular and masking tape.
A wooden plank with an even milled groove inside or with sides nailed on both sides - for forming a figured “snake” from a rope. A plastic cable channel of the required width may also be suitable for this purpose.
As a result of the work done, you should get such an openwork lampshade that will be a real decoration of the ceiling during the day. And when darkness comes, it casts unusual shadows on it and on the walls. - The first step in creating this product is making blanks - a pattern is formed from rope.
Making a figured “snake” from a rope - with such blanks it will be much easier to lay rope loops on a spherical surface For this purpose, the rope is generously lubricated with glue and laid in the form of a “snake” in the channel of the prepared slats. It is important to ensure that the relief is laid at the same pitch, that is, it is even.
Here you need to pay attention to the fixation of the rope pattern. In the illustrations, the threads that fix the bends of the rope in the required position are barely visible. In order to complete this process you will need regular white thread and a needle. The bends are sewn together without tightening them in such a way that the fastening threads mainly run inside the rope and are visible only in some places. Fastening is carried out along the upper and lower edges of the “snake” workpiece.
The workpiece will be ready when the glue is completely dry.
- The next step is to prepare the ball to form a lampshade on it. To prevent the rope from sticking to the plastic surface of the ball, after inflating it should be covered with masking tape.
Laying a rope “snake” on the surface of the ball to create a spherical lampshade surface - The dried rope blank must be carefully placed on the ball. Laying is carried out in a spiral, starting from the top, not forgetting to leave (form) a hole for the cartridge or for another fastener, depending on the characteristics of the lighting device. When laying a rope “snake”, it is advisable to attach each next turn with threads to the previous one - using the same method that was used when forming the “snakes”.
- After the shape of the lampshade is fully formed, that is, the rope “snakes” are laid and tied with threads into a single structure, it must be generously coated with glue and then left until completely dry.
Applying spray paint to a lampshade - Next comes the dyeing process. It is carried out on both sides after removing the finished product from the ball, from which the air is first released. For painting, paint of any shade can be used - white, gold or silver. If desired, the lampshade can be decorated in the “amber” style.
- After the paint has dried, the lampshade-shade is installed on the ceiling lamp using a special decorative clamp or again using the socket flanges, depending on the model of the lighting fixture. When installing, it is important not to press the lampshade too hard against the base, otherwise it may become deformed.
Cozy evenings with a book in your favorite chair, soulful tea parties with family in the kitchen, romantic dates with loved ones... And above all this is a familiar, familiar, traditional lampshade for table lamps, a wall lamp or a floor lamp standing on the floor.
Beautiful lampshades made by yourself become noticeable and irreplaceable interior items. They bring a touch of romance into everyday life and fill the home atmosphere with warmth and beauty.
The material for making a lampshade can be fabric, paper, or beads. By showing imagination and patience, you can transform an old lamp shade with your own hands beyond recognition. Such an exclusive element will make the interior individual and truly homely.
Master class on making a lampshade with your own hands
A popular material from which to make a lampshade with your own hands is fabric. Linen, silk, denim, organza - any option.
A whole piece or strips of material will do. You can simply cover the frame with printed fabric and make it plain with embossed flowers from the same material.
It is important to understand in advance where exactly your lampshade will “live”. A romantic environment requires an appropriate “companion,” while strict minimalism requires another.
Expert advice: As a basis for the lamp, you can take the frame from an old lamp. Making it yourself from stiff wire is also easy. And it’s worth choosing energy-saving lamps so that the fabric doesn’t catch fire.
How to make a beautiful lampshade with your own hands?
- We take a finished frame, for example, with a ring diameter of 20 centimeters on top, thirty-six centimeters on the bottom, and twenty-eight centimeters in height;
- select the fabric and cut it into strips, each four to five centimeters wide; only about twenty-five stripes;
- the edges of the tapes must be smooth;
- iron them well with an iron;
- wrap one edge of the ribbon around the top ring and sew it on by hand;
- now we take it down and wrap the lower ring, and again the upper one;
- when the strip ends, we secure its edge by sewing it to the fabric;
- take a new tape and continue;
- when the entire frame is wrapped, we sew “belts” for the edges;
- to do this, we take two strips of material of a different shade and cut out two strips from it, each length is thirteen centimeters, width is ten;
- iron the ribbons, bending the longitudinal edges 2.5 centimeters to the wrong side;
- then bend the strip in half;
- glue double-sided tape onto the frame hoops;
- We glue a strip of fabric onto it, slightly cutting its edge along the way so that the material lies as evenly as possible;
- We bend the second edge of the tape onto the inner surface of the case and also glue it with tape;
- In this way we decorate the top and bottom of the frame with “belts”.
You can make a border from crocheted ribbon or ruffle.
DIY lampshade made of plastic and fabric
The second homemade lampshade is also made of fabric. You can make it based on an old lampshade. Or you can transform a typical product bought in a store like this:
DIY lampshade. Photo
- the first step is to measure the circumference of the upper and lower rings, as well as the height of the frame;
- add two centimeters from each edge to the resulting dimensions so that the seams can be made;
DIY lampshade. Master Class
- take a sheet of thin plastic and cut out a rectangle or trapezoid from it - the base on which the homemade lampshade will rest;
How to make a lampshade with your own hands. Step by step photo
— cut the fabric to size, use masking tape to glue it to the table;
- glue the material onto the plastic;
Master class - DIY lampshade. Photo
— we bend the resulting part around the frame of the lampshade and fasten its edge with clamps;
- mark on the fabric the place where the seam will go;
- remove the paper clips and glue along the marked line with glue; press the joint with something heavy and let it dry;
Homemade lampshade for a lamp. Photo
- then we turn the lampshade over with our own hands and glue it inside in the same way;
— now you can glue the connection between the body and the rings;
— when everything is well fixed, remove the clamps;
- decorate the bottom and top of the lampshade using paper tape; glue it so that one edge extends beyond the ring;
— we bend the free edge into the body and glue it;
— fold a strip of fabric of a different color in length to the height of the lampshade and a width of five centimeters in half, fold the edges inward, and iron it;
— apply glue to the inner surface of the tape and glue it together;
DIY lampshade. Step by step photo
- glue the strip to the seam on the lampshade;
- cut out two strips of paper of the same width as the finished strip for the seam; then glue it to the top and bottom edges of the lampshade; fix with clamps; Glue a strip of fabric on top of the paper.
The homemade lampshade is ready.
Ideas for making a lampshade with your own hands with photos
This “floral” lampshade will perfectly complement a romantic interior.
A little imagination - and the bouquet with variegated roses is ready.
Delicate tones create a romantic mood.
A frill of white roses is the perfect complement to a strict, simple design.
This wonderful lampshade brings back memories of grandma's napkins.
These origami-style lamps will look good in a minimalist interior.
Another representative of the ancient Japanese art of creating masterpieces from paper.
Light green-blue strokes will fit perfectly into the design of green tones.
A beautiful lampshade made from postcards or pictures of a castle
You will get a beautiful and original lampshade. We will need a picture of locks, scissors, tape, a cutter and a small lamp (lamp).
To make a lampshade with your own hands, you need to choose safe materials and think through the design of the floor lamp. Comfort in an apartment is created not only by the furnishings, but also by the lighting, and a correctly chosen lampshade will add a certain zest to the interior. The editors of HouseChief advise not to spend money on buying a new lamp, but to create an unusual detail for an old floor lamp, following simple tips.
A floral lampshade would be suitable for a girl's room.
PHOTO: dizainvfoto.ru
Read in the article
How to make a lampshade for a floor lamp with your own hands: manufacturing basics
Before making a lampshade for a floor lamp with your own hands, choose a craft technique. It is necessary to calculate the minimum distance from the socket and lamp to the material in order to prevent fire. It is best to use thick threads and fabric. You can update the lampshade for a table lamp with your own hands, using the old frame, then you don’t have to bother with wire, you just need to remove the existing material and put on new one.
Restoring a floor lamp shade with your own hands is a good idea, since buying a new lamp can sometimes cost a pretty penny, especially in cases where you want to choose an unusual, original design and decorate the room.
For winding it is better to use high-quality, bright threads PHOTO: proosveschenie.ru
You can use cardboard and paper, as long as you do not place these materials closer than 7 cm to the lamp. Any other materials are also suitable: plastic five-liter bottles, wooden sticks, corks, pieces of fabric.
Making a frame base
Even a novice needlewoman can make a lampshade for a chandelier in the kitchen with her own hands in fifteen minutes. All you need is an old lamp, from which the shade will be removed, and some available materials. A popular option today is a twine lampshade or a fashionable loft-style lamp made from an old sieve, several vegetable graters or other kitchen utensils.
Even old newspapers can be used, but they need to be placed as far as possible from the light bulb
PHOTO: mirlandshaft.ru 
You can hang many balls of thread on the frame, leaving the structure open
PHOTO: 2.bp.blogspot.com
The chandelier will retain its shape if you leave the old frame base, but you can make a new one using wire and wire cutters. The floor lamp can be of any shape: rectangular, trapezoidal, oval or square. Using wire cutters, the corners of the wire are bent in the desired order. Making a frame is the most difficult part of the work if the craftsman has not yet gotten the hang of it. First, you should practice bending corners correctly and forming a certain type of frame.
Lampshade for a table lamp: covering and braiding of the base
To make a beautiful and original lampshade, you need to take strong iron or aluminum wire. This material is flexible and easy to use. It is not necessary to buy a whole skein; if you have old cables at home, you can remove the top layer and get the required amount of aluminum wire. You can buy steel wire on the construction market - it is suitable for complex structures in which it is important to maintain a certain shape.
The beads look beautiful on the lamp when the light is on PHOTO: stroy-okey.ru
To create a lampshade, you will need any available material that you can find at home: metal rings, leftover earrings, pieces of fabric and paper, thick thread and PVA glue, buttons. You can make a braid with fabric or thick thread.
It is not necessary to go through a special master class, you just need to show your imagination, focusing on simple photos. In order for fabric or any other material to lie smoothly, you need to make as many vertical posts as possible on which the covering will be attached.
Models without frame
Homemade frameless models look very beautiful and stylish. It is important to choose a rigid, high-quality and, at the same time, plastic material that will be convenient to work with.
Options for making a lampshade without a frame:
- from lace knitted napkins. If you don’t feel comfortable throwing away old products, you can coat them with glue and dry them with a plastic bottle, giving them the desired shape. The main thing is to leave a space in the center for the lamp socket;
- from floss threads. The threads are wound onto a ball coated with glue. After the workpiece has dried, the lampshade is removed and, if necessary, trimmed with scissors;
- made from popsicle sticks. The sticks need to be washed and dried. First, a base is created from threads, onto which sticks are glued overlapping. The result is a lampshade of an unusual shape, suitable for a modern interior.
You can also make a beautiful lampshade from wicker or artificial flowers.
Cardboard and paper lampshades of unusual shape attract attention PHOTO: dekoriko.ru
Origami technique is great for creating lamp covers
PHOTO: opple-only.ru
How to make a frame for a lampshade with your own hands from different materials
To make a lampshade for a table lamp with your own hands, you first need to prepare the frame. This is a difficult part of the process, which must be approached responsibly so that all the work is not done in vain, and the workpiece does not fall apart when gluing the top layer.
Regardless of whether the lampshade is made with your own hands from threads or pieces of fabric, a base must be made. To do this, you should use simple instructions.
From blocks of wood
From small pieces of wood you can make a beautiful, modern chandelier.
| Illustration | Description of action |
 | Take a package of wooden sandwich skewers and cut them to the desired length. You should get: 5 sticks 19 cm each, 5 sticks 13 cm each, 10 – 9 cm each, 5 – 8 cm each and another 5 sticks 2.5 cm each |
 | We assemble the lampshade, starting with sticks 13 cm long. We lay them out in the shape of a pentagon. We fasten the figure with instant glue and let it dry |
 | Take 9 cm sticks and glue them on top, in the form of triangles |
 | Then we attach the 8 cm blanks and grease the corners with glue so that everything sticks well. |
 | Turn the workpiece over and prepare 19 cm sticks |
 | Glue all the blanks on the back side |
 | When the glue begins to dry, we connect all the ends together. Care must be taken not to break the structure |
 | We use the smallest sticks to connect the workpiece. Create a hole for the lamp socket |
 | When the assembly work is completed, you can paint the workpiece in any color: golden, brown or silver |
If such a lampshade seems “empty”, you can add vertical and horizontal sticks.
From paper and cardboard
There are many ideas for making a lampshade from paper or pieces of cardboard. Products made from corrugated or “crumpled” cardboard look best. You can make such a lampshade yourself in a few minutes.
Required:
- corrugated paper;
- glue;
- pencil and ruler;
- blank made of sticks or tubes.
The first step is to form a frame on which the entire lampshade should be supported. Then pieces of paper or a solid cardboard structure are placed on it in layers. It is easy to make; you just need to glue the blanks together so that they form a trapezoid or square, and put them on the frame.
From fabric and yarn
To make a wicker lampshade with your own hands, you need to follow the instructions.
| Illustration | Description of action |
 | Take a ball, a saucer, PVA glue, a little water and plastic film |
 | Place a plate on the ball and wrap the workpiece with plastic wrap several times |
 | We dilute the glue with a small amount of water in order to obtain a consistency that is not too thick. |
 | Dip the entire yarn into the glue and soak it for a while until the thread is thoroughly wet. |
 | We begin to glue the ball with yarn, leaving space for the lamp socket in the place where the plate is attached |
 | When all the thread is wound, use the remaining glue directly on the ball and coat the workpiece well. Let it dry for at least 24 hours. To prevent the entire structure from falling apart during removal, you need to make sure that there are no wet places left and everything is well dried |
Making a lampshade with your own hands from scrap materials is simple and quick. You can make a multi-colored floor lamp by tying several threads together: red, yellow, green and blue. You can also make a beautiful lampshade from pieces of fabric if you cut out small diamonds or triangles and then glue them on top of each other. If desired, you can sew a one-piece cover and put it on the frame.
Creative lampshades for chandeliers
Before you make a lampshade for a chandelier with your own hands, you need to decide in what style the product will be made. In one room or apartment it is not recommended to combine rag and wooden lampshades of different colors; it is best to make a lampshade from newspaper tubes for different rooms, but with some differences in details.
You can make a lampshade for a bathhouse with your own hands from wine corks or pieces of wood, but such a structure should be covered with a moisture-resistant mixture so that it does not crumble. Another option is a do-it-yourself macrame lampshade; the diagrams explain all the steps step by step. They are very easy to repeat.
Lamp Case Ideas:
- fabric lampshade made from individual pieces or crumpled fabric;
- lampshade for a table lamp crocheted or knitted;
- a wicker lampshade made of rope, floss or twine;
- DIY lampshade made of paper, corrugated cardboard or tracing paper;
- from many tapes;
- from plastic twigs, leaves and flowers.
You can also show your imagination and make lamps from things common in everyday life, which, as a rule, are not used to decorate the interior: plates, a teapot, spoons and forks, a sieve, a colander, a bucket, metal graters.
If you need to quickly transform an old lamp, the easiest way is to glue wide ribbons. They are placed on top of each other and fixed with glue. The light will not be bright enough, but you will get an original piece of apartment decoration.
Made from wire and corks
To make a lampshade with your own hands from wood, you need to choose a ready-made frame, or make it yourself.
| Illustration | Description of action |
 | To make a wooden lampshade, we take a cutter, a drill, a file, and a construction meter. You will also need a lamp with a socket, a pencil and a ruler-corner |
 | We cut rectangular blanks 15×2.5 cm |
 | We fasten all the boards with a press and cut off another 10 cm from the length |
 | Using a drill, we make a hole through which the fasteners will be inserted. |
 | We connect all the parts with small wooden bolts. You should get several slats of 7 boards each |
 | We connect the first two slats, making a circle from them |
 | We also attach all the remaining slats to the structure, but we move the boards so that they lie in a zigzag pattern. |
 | We connect the socket and lamp to the structure. The product is ready |
It is not necessary to use a special tool; you can get by with a regular saw or jigsaw if you use thin boards.
The easiest way is to make a lampshade with your own hands from wire made of aluminum. It is plastic and holds its given shape. If you glue the corks together, leaving a space in the center, you can get an original and beautiful floor lamp.
Covering using macrame technique
You can make a lampshade with your own hands for a chandelier from threads using the macrame technique. This weaving looks beautiful in hygge or loft style interiors, provided that only one lamp is “dressed” in such a case. A DIY lampshade for a fabric chandelier also adds coziness, but it is often difficult to fit beautifully into a room.
Macrame style details that will suit the lamp:
- long tassels;
- diamond pattern;
- large holes through which light will pass;
- bright colors: yellow, red, orange.
The antique model will fit perfectly into the shabby and Provence style. It is best to choose a cone-shaped pattern, long details and pastel colors. The main advantage is that the cover can be removed and washed at any time.
Other ideas for creating a lampshade with your own hands from simple materials
To decorate a table or floor lamp, you don’t have to run to the hypermarket and buy an expensive lampshade. Sometimes all you need to do is use old fabric, ribbon or pieces of wood to transform the look of a room.
Some housewives resort to completely unique design options: a floor lamp made from a washing machine drum, wine corks, rice paper, a wicker basket, old beads, pencils, napkins, plastic spoons, paper roses. You can collect all the items to throw away and build an unusual, interesting lampshade out of them.
Finally
By going to a flea market, you can find things that are suitable for creating a lampshade. It could be anything: from the drum of a broken washing machine to cups.
Do you like to make crafts for your home with your own hands? What else do you think can be used to make a lampshade for a chandelier?
A homemade lampshade for a table lamp or floor lamp is created from different materials. Using improvised means you can make any decor. For this, fabric, thread, paper, etc. are used. The choice of design is also unlimited. It is only necessary to take into account the color scheme of the product and its belonging to the style direction in which the interior of the room is made.
A lampshade for a table lamp is made with your own hands from improvised materials or specially purchased decorative elements. The purpose of performing such work is to create an original design that will decorate the room and emphasize the style of the interior. In addition, it will not be possible to purchase the same product in a store, because it is unique.
To ensure that a lampshade made of fabric or other material is not only functional, but also attractive, it is important to follow the manufacturing instructions. Then the design will look neat. In this case, the design features of the product are taken into account.
Frame and frameless structures
All such decorative elements are divided into 2 groups:
- frame;
- frameless.
In the first case, the structure is rigid and does not deform over time. To impart the desired properties to the base, it is necessary to use durable materials: wire, wooden products, plastic devices. To get the frame of the desired shape, it is better to choose a wire.
If you have wooden hangers or a plastic bucket on hand, you can make a lampshade for a table lamp from them. You can create a structure of some shapes - cylindrical, cone-shaped. The number of possible options is limited.
Frameless structures often do not last long. They do not have a rigid base, therefore, under the influence of mechanical load during intensive use, such products are deformed and lose their appearance. Some design options can be repaired, others can only be recycled and a new decorative element can be created. For example, it will not be possible to renew a wicker lampshade (made of starched lace) if it breaks.
The advantage of frameless products is the high speed of work when creating most models. In addition, in this case you will not have to select a base, which can create difficulties if you need to make a lampshade of a given shape. The absence of a rigid base helps reduce the cost of the product. To create it, adhesive mixtures or starch are often used (if the decorative element is fabric).
Options to consider:
- materials that are purchased specifically for creating decor;
- improvised means.
The first group includes fabric, threads (including floss), cardboard, paper, and ribbon. The second group includes ready-made knitted napkins, a clothesline, a plastic bin for office waste, hangers, disposable cutlery and much more. The options can be even the most unexpected, for example, Tetra Pak juice packaging. There are no restrictions on selection. It is only important to take into account the degree of complexity of manufacturing an attractive design from the material you like, even if its cost is minimal.
When creating a lampshade from paper or other material, it is necessary to take into account not only the external properties of the structure. It is necessary to select available means so that during operation of the finished product a dangerous situation does not arise. This is due to the fact that the materials come into contact with the wiring and can sometimes touch the light bulb. When a halogen light source is used, it is necessary to exclude the possibility of a dangerous situation arising due to the high risk of explosion: such a lamp becomes very hot and may burst if it touches a decorative element during operation.
When considering options for how to make a lampshade with your own hands, it is necessary to choose low-power lamps as a light source, which emit a minimal amount of heat when heated. For example, an LED version of the lighting element is suitable. Its disadvantage is its higher cost compared to analogues. Fluorescent lamps also consume a minimal amount of electricity. They hardly heat up, but they contain mercury vapor, which can cause a dangerous situation, for example, if a lampshade made of threads becomes deformed.
Other options:
- It is recommended to use a ceramic cartridge, since the plastic counterpart dissipates heat worse and such a product may darken if you install a powerful lamp (halogen or incandescent);
- the distance between flammable materials and the socket, wiring is controlled: it is not recommended to place decorative elements closer than 5 cm from the electrical component of the structure.
How to make a frame for a homemade lampshade
You can use the base of an old lamp if you have an option on hand that fits the shape. As an alternative solution, the possibility of purchasing an inexpensive table lamp is being considered. It should be disassembled and all unnecessary parts removed. Sometimes it’s easier and faster to make a frame for a lampshade with your own hands. In this case, any available or special materials that are characterized by sufficient rigidity are suitable.
Wire mesh
This is the easiest option, due to the possibility of using a ready-made mesh fabric. Reinforcing mesh is used as the basis for a chandelier, floor lamp or table lamp. It is made of metal, has a fairly high rigidity, and lasts a long time.
You don’t need any tools to make it; you just need to prepare a piece of mesh fabric. The rectangle must be rolled up to form a cylinder. The edges are fixed using protruding sections of mesh wire. To do this, you need to make a cut in such a way that longer rods remain on one side. They are connected to the opposite end of the mesh.
- aluminum;
- steel wire.
In the first case, the work is done faster, because the wire bends better, but it holds its shape less well. The steel analogue, on the contrary, is durable, but the manufacture of lampshades in this case is difficult due to the complexity of creating a product of the required configuration. The main nuances of making a frame:
- Depending on the design, 1 or 2 rings are made. To do this, use pliers and wire cutters. If 2 rings are used, their diameters must be different.
- The finished structural elements are connected using straight racks made of the same material. The edges of the wire should be wrapped around the rings. The number of racks depends on the design.
From the office waste basket
In this case, the frame can be considered ready for finishing work. However, in order to make a lampshade for a floor lamp with your own hands, you must also provide a hole for fixing the socket and making it possible to supply the power wire. To do this, cut a hole of sufficient diameter at the bottom of the basket. You can also adjust the height of the structure. If necessary, the basket is trimmed to fit its circumference.
From a five liter plastic bottle
You will need a large bottle. The choice of option is made taking into account the dimensions of the decorative element that is planned to be created. You need to cut the bottle. The upper part (with the neck) will be used as a frame. In order for the structure to be ventilated, it is recommended to cut out straight sections (between the ribs of the resulting dome). This measure will not have a significant impact on the degree of rigidity. If the cartridge is large enough, the neck of the bottle is also cut off.
Other frame material options
You can use wooden planks of small thickness. They are thin enough that they can be bent. As a result, it becomes possible to make a ring. The strips will be fixed on it. Metal brackets are used for fastening. An alternative, but less suitable option is small nails.
If you have a welding machine at hand, you can create a durable structure from small diameter metal rods. They are not subject to bending, so it is difficult to form a lampshade with smooth lines. The design will be rectangular or triangular.
Making lampshades on a frame
The choice of option is made taking into account the degree of rigidity of the base. If you create a lampshade yourself, macrame, clothesline, fabric or ribbon are the most suitable options for finishing rigid frames. Such materials can be tightly stretched onto a metal, wooden or plastic base. As a result, the product will better hold its shape.
Covering the frame with fabric
To make the structure look attractive, it is necessary to use material with a processed edge. If you have sewing skills, you can carefully tuck the fabric after reupholstering. The fabric for the lampshade is selected in accordance with the style direction of the interior. You can fix the edges of the canvas that covers the frame with glue.
Covering the frame with tape
There are many design options for the lampshade in this case. A tape up to 2.5 cm wide is used. Its edges are fixed with glue. Stationery or PVA will do. While the composition has not dried, the material is additionally secured with a needle. Then they begin to cover the frame with tape. You can use the technique of longitudinal or longitudinal-transverse arrangement of stripes. They can also be placed at an angle relative to the frame ring.
The principle of this technique is the same as in the case of tape. First, secure the edge of the rope to the ring. You can make a knot if you plan to perform additional finishing on the edge of the lampshade. Re-upholstering lampshades does not take much time. The rope is wound around the frame in any direction (horizontal, vertical, at an angle).
Making a frameless lampshade
This option is better to choose if you plan to decorate a sconce, floor lamp or pendant type. With regular use when installed on a table lamp, such a product will quickly lose its shape.
Lampshade made of knitted napkins
Lampshades made of thin threads are used. You will need glue (for vinyl wallpaper), a large ball (the diameter is determined by the size of the future lampshade). The napkins are glued individually on a flat surface, then placed on the ball. The edges overlap. When the lampshade dries, the ball is deflated and removed. To fix the cartridge, a plastic holder is provided - from the neck of a 5 liter bottle.
In this case, it is necessary to use the weaving method. Using a rope, a pattern or fabric is created consisting of knots of the same type. The choice of option is made taking into account personal preferences. To give the product a round shape, use a large ball. The rope can be additionally treated with glue, but it is already quite rigid and will hold its shape well.
Lampshade made of thick threads or yarn
This is the most common option and is easy to implement. Inflate the balloon and begin to cover it with thread moistened with PVA glue. The degree of transparency of the product depends on the density of the thread and the number of layers. The mounting of the cartridge is the same as in the case of the version made from openwork napkins.
It is possible to create a lampshade from wicker. The material lasts a long time and does not lose shape over time. Moreover, additional decor of the lampshade is not required in this design. It is easier to make a round lampshade, since the vine bends well. In this case, the weaving method is used. No additional elements are used to secure the vine.
Making a frame lampshade with your own hands
Preparation. Determination of shape and size
The choice of option is made taking into account personal preferences. However, it is important to take into account the subtleties of the room design: color scheme, style, predominance of shapes of other objects (straight, curved lines, etc.). It is also important to choose the right material.
For example, a product made from paper with your own hands is not suitable for a classic-style interior. In this case, it is better to decorate the table lamp shade with fabric and ribbons. Complex weaving patterns are often used. The shape of the lampshade must be such that the product does not cause inconvenience during operation of the lighting device.
In accordance with the dimensions of the future lampshade, the wire is cut. It must be twisted to form rings (2 pcs.). The diameter of the upper and lower products differs by 1.5-2 times. The rings are connected with metal rods. They will play the role of stiffeners. The quantity can be any.
We cover the frame with the selected material
Fabric is often used. You need to make a blank out of cardboard. They wrap the finished frame with it and trim it until the desired shape is obtained. The workpiece is applied to the material laid out on a flat surface. Make allowances of 2-3 cm on each side. Outline the outline. The workpiece is removed. The fabric is cut along the contour. The edge is then folded over and stitched on a sewing machine. However, this stage is not mandatory.
We process the edges. Masking the connection points
If the edge has not been pre-processed, the frame is first covered with the workpiece made. The fabric is attached with glue. The edge is turned up on all sides and glued.
Decorating the finished lampshade
There are many options for improving the appearance of a product. So, if the fabric is plain and light, then decorative elements pre-cut from cardboard are attached to the inside, for example, in the style of a night city. They use a simplified version of the image - the outline of houses, several small windows. As a result, when the lamp is turned on, a shadow from this blank will appear on the lampshade.
The fabric combines well with ribbons. If the edge has not been carefully processed, tape is fixed along the circumference of the frame. Decorative buttons are used to decorate the lampshade. If the interior allows, complement the design with fringe along the bottom of the lampshade.
You can change the design of the entire room at least every season by creating a lampshade with your own hands. A functional piece of furniture - a table lamp or floor lamp - can become the main decor of the room, adding some zest to the overall look, because there are so many variations in its design. After reading the detailed description of the manufacture of the cap, you can safely proceed to action. The complexity of the work depends on the chosen material. It can last from 1 to 10 hours. You should be inspired by the idea, have some time, and expert advice will help inspire your future decor.
It's hard to believe, but here are handmade masterpieces. All made of fabric and decorated with fringe. Amazing view is not complicated in the creation process
What is a lampshade and its functions
The cap for the lamp, which protects the eyes from the caustic rays of the lamp, is a lampshade. Can be made of glass, plastic, fabric and other materials. The name takes its roots from France and literally means “light dimmer.” Back in the days of kerosene lamps, there was a need to shade their bright glow. The French, rich in inventions, solved the problem of adjusting lighting by creating lampshades.
Material of manufacture
You can make a lampshade for a table lamp with your own hands from:
- Fabrics, it is better to take fabrics made from natural fibers: cotton, linen, synthetics will melt.
- Sewing threads.
- Knitting threads.
- Cardboard.
- Beads, beads.
Lampshades made of glass and plastic are available in all kinds of configurations, and they are called lampshades.
You can make these lampshades with your own hands from the listed materials. In fact, there are a lot more materials for creativity, look around right now, and you can already decide on your future decor
Choosing a lampshade style
First, the style of the light shade in question should match the style of the room. Round visors or tapered visors are suitable for a classic design. Straight, angular types harmonize perfectly in modern rooms. Trapezoidal styles will suit any style.
Secondly, the contours of the lampshade should be similar to the contours of the lamp itself. The round base and smooth lines fit perfectly with the same geometry of the cap. Square and other similar shapes should match the shape of the lampshade.
Thirdly, the lampshade should not overload the overall perception of the lamp with contrast. For example, for the pompous, sinuous outlines of the entire structure, a modest lampshade in pastel colors is most suitable.
For example, this design turns its attention specifically to the main part – the bottle holder. This is exactly the case when the cap should not be pompous and divert attention to itself. It is quite simple and laconic, carrying the desired intent of the entire composition.
Step-by-step instructions with photos on how to make a lampshade with your own hands
Creating a wire frame
Before you make a lampshade with your own hands, you need to create a frame on which it will rest. Large-diameter wire, plastic bottles and other fire-resistant materials are perfect for it.
Form the sheathing into the desired shape. This can be any geometric figure, for example, the popular cylinder. It will consist of two rings connected to each other by pieces of wire from 4 to many pieces.
Creating a holder for the entire structure, namely, a wire circle for a light bulb with a socket. Having measured the diameter of the cartridge, you should twist a ring of wire approximately 0.8 cm larger than the cartridge.
Connection of the holder with the sheathing. The frame for the lampshade will be completely ready after three or more pieces are connected to one edge with the sheathing, and the second with the cartridge holder.
The photo shows an ordinary wire frame, made with your own hands from wire and painted white. Connect the wire parts using a soldering iron and soldering acid. It’s better not to take rosin
Making a lampshade out of fabric
A DIY lampshade made of fabric is the simplest option.
- Cut a rectangle with hem allowances corresponding to the length and width of the frame.
- To impart rigidity to the fabric, a rectangular cut should be placed on self-adhesive paper or on dublerin.
- Fold in half, connecting the open sections end-to-end with glue or tape.
- Place the resulting cylinder on the frame and secure it at the top and bottom by folding the fabric on the rings.
From threads
A do-it-yourself lampshade made of threads is a highlight in the design of recent years. These can be knitting or sewing threads. Already knitted openwork napkins also look great. Here you don’t need to worry about the frame for the lampshade with your own hands, it simply won’t exist. The finished product is hung on the cartridge. So, the thread canopy technique:
- Inflate a regular balloon.
- Dilute glue with warm water in equal proportions.
- Take a ball of thread and wind it around the ball according to the thickness. Each piece of thread should be dipped into a plate with diluted glue, and only then wrapped around the ball.
- Set the masterpiece aside for 4 hours. During this time, the glue should dry.
- After the allotted time has passed, pierce the ball with a needle and carefully remove the remaining rubber ball from the already created thread ball. Ready.
A ready-made thread lamp cap made from ordinary knitting threads. The appearance is quite simple, but at the same time, it has a certain zest that encourages you to make the same one for yourself
Beads and beads at work
You can use an old chandelier as a frame for such a masterpiece or make it yourself from wire. The remaining components will be beads and fishing line.
- Weave flowers from beads using any method convenient for you.
- If the cartridge is visible, it can also be decorated with woven beads.
- Attach the finished product to the old chandelier using fishing line or paper clips.
DIY lampshades made from scrap materials can be completely different, you can’t count them all. It all depends on the availability of this or that material in the house and your imagination.
This is the beauty that comes out if you follow the steps for creating a cap from beads. The frame is almost invisible and the entire structure completely shades the light of the lamp
How to decorate a finished lamp
The decor of your own lampshade can be made from paper, plastic dishes, papier-mâché, twine, rhinestones, beads, etc. You can also update an existing lamp with the listed accessories.
What will be needed to decorate the finished lamp?
For work you should prepare: glue (Moment, Titanium, etc.), scissors, pliers, cardboard, paper sheets, beads, rhinestones. The available tools listed are not basic and can be easily modified depending on your idea.
Lace decoration. A similar material is used if the room is made in Provence style. The lace fabric is covered over a fabric or paper cap and perfectly complements Provence.
It is clear that an ordinary mesh will not particularly obscure the bright rays of a lamp. But if the very idea of using a mesh does not go away, then such a voluminous fabric bow will help create a shadow
Decoration with fabric flowers. Such additions can be made of synthetic fabric; the presence of natural fibers is not necessary, because the scorching rays of the light bulb will not reach the flowers. Homemade bows and flowers are attached with glue to the surface of a lampshade for a floor lamp with your own hands. You can cover the entire area with them, or you can decorate only the bottom.
One example of floral design on the bottom. The print of the lampshade is already colorful enough to completely cover its entire surface with bows, so it’s enough to just decorate the edge. Please note that the top is also subtly decorated with elastic
Decoration with fabric scraps. In this case, pieces of fabric of the desired size are cut in advance and attached to the surface of the lamp. Fastening can be done using glue, as well as by connecting the flaps in advance using a sewing machine.
Another option is how to make a fabric cap. It turns out that scraps of fabric can be joined together not only in unfolded form, creating a smooth fabric, but also by cutting them into separate fragments, which are simply rolled into a tube and assembled, like a match house on a wire frame
Decoration with various materials. Here is the will of your imagination. The decor can be a fishing net, burlap, old jeans, knitted flowers and linen, rhinestones, beaded butterflies and much more. Basically, all of the items listed are attached to transparent glue.
Decorating the entire surface of the lampshade with paper flowers gave such a gorgeous result. A bright and eye-catching lamp is now a full-fledged piece of furniture
A paper lampshade can be decorated with ordinary threads, wound tightly in a spiral. The resulting table lamp will complement any modern style.
An original spherical lamp made of light paper, decorated with thicker paper in the form of a growing flower over the entire surface
- You cannot make a paper lampshade for a regular incandescent lamp. In this case, it is better to use an incandescent lamp. And, in general, for such handicrafts it is better to screw in a fluorescent or LED lamp.
- All of the materials mentioned are fire hazards to one degree or another, so the diameter of the future hood should be at least 30 cm.
- The future illumination of the room depends on the density of the fabric or paper. For example, for a dimly lit room there is no need to take several layers of whatman paper.
- If you have a bulky lamp, it is not recommended to hang it directly on the electrical cable with the socket. It is better to additionally use special tubes for suspension or not use the resulting masterpiece at all.
- It is not advisable to place table or pendant lamps with self-made lampshades in places with high humidity (bathtub, street).
A similar crocheted cap for a table lamp takes us back to the distant 80s. For those who want to feel the spirit of the past, you can make such a decoration
The picture shows another version of a handmade lamp. An ordinary plastic bottle acts as a frame. Who would have thought? And the lampshades decorating it are the same plastic spoons. Everything perfect is simple, and most importantly accessible
Such shades for lamps already require the intervention of male hands and extreme care, because a slight movement to the side with a drill and fragile ceramics can crack
Knitted masterpiece. When you need romance in the room, and not bright rays for reading books, such a lampshade comes in handy