Hello. I am so excited to share something really special with you today. We all love the elegance that pleated lampshades bring to a room. Especially when combined with cottage-style decor. Isn’t it just giving off dignity and style? There is something timeless about them and they can turn an ordinary lamp into a special ornament.
But buying these pleated lampshades online or at a high-end home decor store can put a lot of money down. What if I told you that you can easily make your own pleated lampshade at home? With a little time, materials and patience, you can create a custom lampshade that perfectly matches your decor. Not only will you save a significant amount of money, but you will also get the satisfaction of having made it yourself.
All right, let’s collect everything we need for this project. Making your own pleated lampshade is easy, and having the materials and tools on hand makes the process much smoother.
Here’s a shopping list for DIY pleated lampshades:
- fabric: star of the show. See the fabric selection section for guidance on choosing the right type and amount. Don’t forget to factor in extra fabric to accommodate the pleats. I bought 2 yards for the large shade that was covering.
- Lampshade frame: You can reuse your old lampshade frame or buy a new lampshade frame. A drum or bell shape is best.
- Fabric scissors or rotary cutter: These allow you to cut the fabric cleanly and accurately.
- ruler: A ruler is useful for cutting straight lines. A precise cut ensures that the pleats are even and the fabric fits the frame perfectly.
- Hot glue gun: To attach the fabric to the lampshade frame, use a hot glue gun for a strong bond and quick drying time.
- Cutting mat (if using a rotary cutter)
Once you have these items, you can start right away.
If you are using a used lampshade, you will need to remove the old trim and shade material. Be sure to leave the lining.
How to make a pleated lampshade: a step-by-step process.
step 1 Measure the lampshade from top to bottom. Add 2 inches to this measurement to allow for error. This measurement will be the size of the panel that will be cut out for the shade.
step 2 Cut a panel across the width of the fabric using the dimensions obtained in step 1. Cut this panel into 2.5 inch strips.
step 3 Place the fabric right side (printed side down) on the table and fold the uncut edges of the fabric to meet in the center. This will create a strip with two layers and half the width of the original strip. Press the crease into the fabric with an iron. The starch helps hold them in place.
step 4 Place hot glue dots on the top and bottom of the shade. Make sure the strip is straight and press it into the lampshade frame. (Be sure to pull the top and bottom of the strips tight when gluing them to the frame.) There should be about an inch of room at the top and bottom.
Then put a bit of glue on top of the first strip and a bit of glue on the frame as well and glue another strip over the first strip. If the top of the frame is smaller than the bottom, you should have more overlap at the top and less overlap at the bottom. For my shade, it was perfect to show about 1/4 inch of the first strip at the top of the shade and leave 1/2 inch at the bottom.
Continue gluing the strips until they completely cover the lampshade. Check frequently to make sure the strip is straight. Once the lamp is covered, cut off the excess fabric above and below the shade with scissors.
final trimming
First, measure the top and bottom diameters of your lampshade.
Cut two strips to create top and bottom trim. It should be 2 inches wider and 2 inches longer than the dimensions you got from the lampshade.
Fold and iron the strips as you would when making the pleats on the lamp. Then fold the strip in half again with one edge slightly offset from the other (see photo below). This will give your trim a professional finish.
Glue each strip along the top and bottom of the shade, covering the edges of the fabric strips. Apply the glue a few inches at a time and press the fabric against the glue. Make sure you start and end at the same spot on both trim awnings. This place will be behind the lampshade. At the beginning and end of the trim, fold it to less than 1/4 inch and tuck it under the raw edge for a clean finish.
Fabric selection: the key to lamp individuality
Choosing the right fabric for your lampshade is an important step in this DIY project. The fabric you choose not only determines the beauty of your lampshade, but also affects the quality and color of the light it emits.
Let’s start with the colors. Choose darker or richer colors if you prefer a softer, diffused light to create a calm and cozy atmosphere. Navy blues, deep reds, and even rich emerald greens give off a soft, warm glow that’s perfect for a relaxing evening. On the other hand, lighter shades such as whites, creams, and pastels let more light through, creating brighter, more vibrant lighting. Perfect for your study corner or when you need extra light while reading your favorite book.
The pattern of the fabric also plays an important role. A large pattern makes a statement piece and gives the room an edgy and bold feel. Note, however, that once the lamp is lit, the complexity of large-scale patterns may not be apparent from a distance. Instead, it offers an element of wow when viewed up close or in daylight.
Conversely, smaller patterns and textures can create a subtle, sophisticated feel without overwhelming the decor. You can create unique lighting effects with beautiful play of light and shadow. So whether you decide to be big and bold or subtly sophisticated, remember to choose a pattern that complements the overall room décor and the lamps it covers.
After all, your choice of fabric is your chance to give your pleated lampshade your own twist. This is your chance to show off your style and create a truly unique lampshade. Get creative and let your fabric choices tell your story.
Tips and Tricks: A Roadmap to the Perfect Pleated Lampshade
I’d like to share some useful tips I’ve found to get you started on your project. These tips will help you create a more professional looking lampshade.
- Test your fabric. Before you cut your fabric of choice, test how it will look when pleated. You can fold the dough several times to get a rough idea of what the finished product will look like. If possible, hold the fabric over the shade with the lamp off and on to help visualize the final result.
- Check the frame. If you’re using a second-hand frame, make sure it’s not bent. It is very difficult to put the strip straight on the bent frame.
- Check Lining: Make sure the lining is the color you like and is in good condition.
- Measure twice, cut once: This old adage applies to any DIY project. Always double check the dimensions before cutting the fabric. Remember, it’s better to have too much dough than not enough.
- If the fabric is thin, apply glue and iron: It may seem like an unnecessary step, but ironing your fabric with starch can make a big difference. It helps create crisper, more defined pleats and remove wrinkles that can distort patterns and shapes.
- Patience is key: It may take some time for the glue to dry completely, especially if you are in a damp area. Let the lampshade rest until it’s completely dry, as rushing this step can unravel the pleats.
- Always clean: Excess glue can be quickly wiped off with a damp cloth to prevent it from drying visibly on the fabric. Once the shade is finished, check it all over for almost invisible threads of glue.
Remember that the fun of DIY is not only in the final product, but also in the process of creating it. So take your time, enjoy the process and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Ultimately, it’s these little imperfections that add character and make pleated lampshades truly unique.
Conclusion
Now you have your very own DIY pleated lampshade. If you’re like me, you can imagine every shade in your home pleated with nice prints and patterns. fun!
