Decorating a lampshade with ribbon is a fantastic way to add personality, color, and texture to your lighting, transforming a simple shade into a unique piece of home decor. A common technique involves covering the lampshade surface entirely or adding ribbon as decorative trim.
Basic Method: Covering with Ribbon
One straightforward approach, as indicated in the provided reference snippet, involves covering the lampshade surface entirely with ribbon.
Here's a breakdown of this method:
- Keep Covering: The core instruction is to "All the way keep covering" the lampshade with your chosen ribbon. This generally means applying the ribbon in a continuous manner until the desired area (often the entire shade) is concealed. You can wrap the ribbon vertically, horizontally, or even on a diagonal, overlapping slightly to prevent gaps. Keep the ribbon taut as you go for a smooth finish.
- Attaching the Ends: Once you have finished covering the lampshade, you need to secure the ends of the ribbon. The reference suggests you "attach it stitch at the top or glue." This means you can either sew the end of the ribbon neatly at the top edge of the lampshade or use fabric glue or a hot glue gun to adhere it securely. The starting end of the ribbon should also be attached similarly, usually at the top or bottom edge, to create a clean beginning.
This technique allows you to completely change the look of a lampshade using just ribbon and adhesive or needle and thread.
Exploring Other Ribbon Decorating Techniques
Beyond full covering, ribbon offers versatility for various decorative effects:
Adding Simple Ribbon Trim
Applying ribbon as trim is a quick and elegant way to enhance a lampshade.
- Edge Trim: Attach ribbon along the top and/or bottom edges of the lampshade for a finished look.
- Seam Cover: Use ribbon to cover vertical seams on fabric lampshades.
- Accent Band: Add a band of ribbon around the middle or near the edges of the shade.
Creating Patterns or Appliques
Get creative by using ribbon to form specific designs.
- Vertical Stripes: Run ribbons vertically down the shade from top to bottom.
- Criss-Cross/Weave: Create a woven effect by layering ribbons in a criss-cross pattern.
- Geometric Shapes: Cut ribbon into shapes and glue them onto the lampshade.
- Bows and Rosettes: Fashion ribbon into decorative bows or rosettes and attach them as embellishments.
Essential Tips for Your Project
Consider these tips for a successful ribbon lampshade makeover:
- Choose the Right Ribbon:
- Consider the ribbon's material (satin, grosgrain, velvet, burlap) and how it complements your decor.
- The ribbon's width will affect the look – wider ribbon covers faster but might be harder on curved shades; thinner ribbon allows for more detail.
- Select the Appropriate Adhesive:
- Fabric Glue: Works well for most ribbons and allows for repositioning before drying.
- Hot Glue Gun: Provides an instant, strong bond, best for ribbons that won't melt. Use caution to avoid visible bumps or strings.
- Spray Adhesive: Useful for covering large areas but can be messy.
- Measure and Plan: Calculate how much ribbon you'll need. For full coverage, this can be significant. Lay out patterns or trims before gluing to ensure proper placement.
- Work in Sections: Apply glue or adhesive in small sections to avoid it drying before you can attach the ribbon.
- Smooth as You Go: Press the ribbon firmly onto the lampshade, smoothing out any bubbles or wrinkles immediately.
By using methods like covering the shade "all the way" and securing the ends "stitch at the top or glue," or applying ribbon as trim or patterns, you can beautifully customize any lampshade.
