How to Recover Lampshades
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An attractive and stylish lampshade plays a significant role in enhancing the ambiance of your living space. However, over time, your favorite lampshade may lose its charm due to wear and tear or accumulation of dust. Instead of throwing it away and spending money on a new one, try recovering it and giving it a fresh look. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide on how to recover your lampshade.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need:
– Fabric (of your choice)
– Scissors
– Fabric glue
– Measuring tape or ruler
– Pencil or fabric marker
– Paintbrush (for applying glue)
– Iron (optional)
Step 1: Choose Your Fabric
Select the fabric that you want to use for the new covering. Make sure the fabric is not too thick or heavy, as this could affect the amount of light emitted from the lamp. If you’re looking for a seamless finish, select a fabric with a similar weight and texture as the original.
Step 2: Measure Your Lampshade
Using a measuring tape or ruler, measure the height and circumference of your lampshade in order to determine the size of fabric needed for the new covering. Be sure to add at least an extra inch to both dimensions for folding and seam allowance.
Step 3: Remove Old Covering (if necessary)
If your old lampshade covering is still in good condition, you may choose to leave it in place and simply apply the new fabric on top. However, if it’s damaged or peeling off, carefully remove the old material before proceeding.
Step 4: Cut Your Fabric
Lay your selected fabric on a flat surface with its wrong side facing up. Using the measurements taken earlier, mark out the required dimensions on the fabric using a pencil or fabric marker. Then, carefully cut out this shape with scissors.
Step 5: Iron the Fabric (optional)
To ensure a smooth application and remove any wrinkles, consider ironing the fabric before attaching it to the lampshade. Be sure to use the appropriate heat setting for the fabric type.
Step 6: Apply Glue and Attach Fabric
Apply a thin layer of fabric glue on the wrong side of your fabric along the edge that will be attached to the top of the lampshade. Press this edge onto the lampshade, making sure it’s properly aligned and smooth. Then, apply glue in sections around the circumference of the lampshade, carefully pressing and smoothing out the fabric as you go. Allow each section to dry before moving on.
Step 7: Trim Excess Fabric
Once you have fully covered your lampshade and allowed it to dry, trim off any excess fabric with scissors. Be careful not to cut too close to the edge, as this may cause fraying or an uneven finish.
Step 8: Tidy Up Seams
Fold and glue down any undone edges or seams for a neat finish. Allow your newly recovered lampshade to dry completely before placing it back on your lamp.
And there you have it – a stunning, recovered lampshade that has brought new life into your favorite luminary accessory. With these simple steps, you can easily refresh any tired-looking lampshade and enhance the appeal of your home or office space.