Feeling creative? Want to add that personal touch to your home? Then why not make your very own lamp shade cover? It’s easy than you think and more fun than just buying a new lamp shade. Whether it’s a bed lamp, table lamp, floor lamp or swing arm lamp you’ll be able to follow these instructions and add your unique touch to your home. Simply read through these guidelines and just add your own flair.

This what you’ll need before you start work.

Plain white lamp shade
Large sheet of clean paper
Fabric
Scissors
Fabric glue
Trim for inside edge of lamp shade
Decorative trim for outside top and bottom of shade

Now start by laying the paper on the floor or on a big table. Put the lamp shade on its side with the seam on the edge of the paper. Trace onto the paper the shape of the top and bottom edges. Roll the shade along the paper until you have traced its entire shape. Add an inch or so to the top and bottom and the seam line and then cut out this outlined section.

Next place the fabric on a clean table. Pin the paper pattern to the fabric. Cut the fabric using the pattern as your guide.

Now check that the cut out fabric fits the lamp shade. Now apply the fabric glue to the wrong side of the fabric. I recommend using a spray adhesive. Starting at the seam, lay the shade on one edge of the fabric and roll it onto the fabric’s first few inches. Gently pick up the lamp shade and apply the rest of the fabric to it. Smooth out all wrinkles as you proceed. You may need to secure it into place with wooden pegs. Take extra care to smooth the fabric down to guarantee a polished finish. Give the adhesive sufficient time to dry.

Last but not least decorate the top and bottom edges with ribbon, beads, lace, braid, fringe or whatever suits your taste.

Finally here’s two tips to ensure your creative flair gets the best results. Make sure you test your adhesive glue on a spare piece of the fabric to ensure it does not stain or spoil the fabric. Always remember this proverb – measure twice, cut once. Don’t waste your time and money by being hasty.

Making your own lamp shade will not only be fun but it will give you an extra sense of satisfaction as you recognize your creativity can have an outlet in your own home.