How to Make a Ribbon-Covered Lampshade

March 19th, 2008 in other crafts, patterns & designs, home decorating, magazine extras

Deana Tierney, editor

1 user recommends

Create a high-impact lampshade similar to those you would find at a retail furniture store.

Glue the ribbons to the shade one row at a time.

Create a high-impact lampshade similar to those you would find at a retail furniture store.

Photo: Sloan Howard

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Who says lampshades can't be high impact? The one in our photo is similar to those you'd find at high-end retail furniture stores. To make it yourself, all you need is a lampshade with straight sides and gorgeous silk ribbon.

What You'll Need:
Lampshade with straight sides (round or square)
Fabric ribbon (JKMRibbon.com)
Fabric glue such as Beacon’s Fabri-Tac (SaveOnCrafts.com)
Ruler

Step 1: Measure and layout ribbons
Measure the height of the lampshade. Purchase widths of ribbon to fit, so when stacked, the ribbon widths equal your lampshade's height. For example, this shade measures 6-3/4 inches, so we need the widths of the ribbon to add up to 6-3/4 inches. It’s best to lay out your ribbon rows on paper or to tape them on the lampshade so you can experiment with the order of the colors. Measure the circumference of the lampshade, and cut your ribbon slightly longer for overlap. Cut the ends on a slant.

The height of your lampshade will determine how much ribbon you'll need.

Step 2: Glue the ribbons
Glue the ribbons to the shade one row at a time. Place a small drop of glue on one ribbon end, and press it to the lampshade seam. Wrap the ribbon smoothly around the shade, and glue down the other end. Lap and affix it slightly over the first end.

When you glue the ribbons, anchor one end with a dab of glue and wrap the rest all the way around.

Photos by: Sloan Howard

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posted in: other crafts, patterns & designs, home decorating, magazine extras, ribbon, announcement

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Comments (2)

SusanElizabeth writes: LOVE! Have to make one. Posted: 2:45 pm on July 3rd

Isabellas_Quilts writes: Neat Idea !!
Great way to add life to an otherwise dull lamp.
The sky Is the limit. You can coordinate your room colors or add contrasting for that added touch of elegance.
Make yours a one of a kind. Posted: 2:14 am on May 7th

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