How to Make a Fabric-Covered Lampshade
X-HT-300552
- Creating Pattern — 0:35 min.
- Cutting Fabric — 3:33 min.
- Gluing Fabric to Lampshade — 4:57 min.
- Materials & Tools List — 12:56 min.
- Clear Acrylic Ruler 6" x 24" — #102400
- Flexible Curve 18" — #122445
- Tempered Cutting Glass for Hotknife — #121915
- Sailrite® Edge Cordless Hotknife 18V Package — #122177
- Surebonder® HE‑750 Professional High Temp Glue Gun — #103684
- Hot Glue Gun Tip — #102667
- Hot Glue Gun Adapter Nozzle — #103685
- Multiuse Pins 1‑1/2" (250 Pack) — #102985
- Gingher® Scissors Right Hand Lightweight 8" — #101017
- Pen
When choosing a fabric for your lampshade, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Depending on how much light you want to come through your shade, a thinner fabric in a light color is the best option. We chose a Sunbrella® Upholstery Fabric in a light color for our shade, but other lightweight décor and upholstery fabrics will work well, too. Patterned fabrics can be tricky if your lampshade is tapered, meaning the top is smaller than the bottom. Linear patterns can look distorted as they wrap around the shade, so consider using a random pattern or a solid color for the best look.
The process itself is simple and only requires some paper to create a pattern and a hot glue gun to attach the fabric to the lampshade. When creating the pattern, add 1/2 inch to each edge; this will ensure there’s plenty of fabric to wrap around the top and bottom of your lampshade. We used the Sailrite® Edge Hotknife to cut our fabric, but this step isn’t necessary for every material.
Once your shade is covered, you can add fringe or trim for a more embellished look! These lampshades are easily customizable and bring a high-end feel without breaking the bank.
What do you think of this easy upgrade? Show us your lampshades on social media using #Sailrite. And if you want to view more projects in our RV Renovation Series, click here!