Decorating a lampshade with wallpaper is a creative way to add pattern and personality to your lighting, transforming a simple fixture into a focal point.
The process involves preparing the lampshade, cutting the wallpaper to size, and carefully applying it to the shade's surface, often using adhesive methods like double-sided tape or wallpaper paste.
Materials Needed
Before you begin your lampshade transformation, gather the necessary supplies:
- Plain lampshade (ensure the material is suitable for adhesive application)
- Wallpaper (choose a design and weight appropriate for wrapping)
- Sharp craft knife or rotary cutter
- Cutting mat
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Pencil
- Double-sided tape or wallpaper paste and brush (choose one method)
- Smooth tool (like a credit card or wallpaper smoother)
- Scissors
| Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Lampshade | The base object for decoration |
| Wallpaper | The decorative material |
| Craft Knife/Cutter | Precise cutting of wallpaper |
| Double-sided Tape | Adhesive method (per reference technique) |
| Smooth Tool | Removing air bubbles and ensuring adhesion |
Preparing Your Lampshade
Start with a clean, smooth lampshade. If the existing fabric is textured or damaged, consider covering it first with a thin, smooth paper or fabric, or selecting a shade with a suitable surface. Ensure the shade is free of dust and debris.
Cutting the Wallpaper
Accurately measuring and cutting the wallpaper is key for a seamless finish.
- Measure the height of your lampshade.
- Measure the circumference of the bottom and top edges. Note if the shade is tapered or straight.
- For a straight shade, cut a rectangular piece of wallpaper slightly wider than the circumference and a bit taller than the height.
- For a tapered shade, you'll need to create a template to get the correct curved shape. Roll the shade along a large piece of paper, tracing the top and bottom edges as you go. Use this template to cut your wallpaper, adding a slight overlap for joining.
Tip: Always cut slightly extra to allow for overlap and trimming.
Applying the Wallpaper
This is where your lampshade begins its new life. One effective method, particularly useful for achieving a smooth wrap, involves using double-sided tape as an initial adhesive point.
Here's how to apply the wallpaper using the double-sided tape technique:
- Apply a strip of double-sided tape vertically along one seam line of the lampshade from top to bottom.
- Remove the protective outer layer of the double-sided tape.
- Lay out your cut wallpaper piece flat.
- Place the lampshade onto the wallpaper near one edge of the paper, making sure the vertical tape strip on the shade is lined up straight with the starting edge of the wallpaper.
- Carefully roll the lampshade up, allowing the wallpaper to wrap around the shade. It should stick securely to the sticky tape you applied.
- As you roll, keep the wallpaper aligned with the top and bottom edges of the shade.
- Once the shade is fully rolled and the wallpaper meets the starting edge, secure the overlap. You can use more double-sided tape or a thin line of craft glue along the joining edge of the wallpaper.
- Use a smooth tool to gently press the wallpaper onto the shade, working out any air bubbles or wrinkles as you go. Work from the taped seam outwards.
- Carefully trim any excess wallpaper from the top and bottom edges using a sharp craft knife against the edge of the lampshade ring.
Alternative: If using wallpaper paste, apply a thin, even layer to a section of the lampshade surface or to the back of the wallpaper itself, then carefully smooth the paper onto the shade, working around its circumference.
Finishing Touches
Once the wallpaper is applied and trimmed, allow any adhesive to dry completely according to the product instructions. You can add trim, ribbon, or other embellishments to the top and bottom edges for a professional finish. Ensure the final result is smooth and securely attached.
By following these steps, you can easily transform a plain lampshade into a unique decorative piece that complements your home decor.
