DIY Lampshades are a great project! Just start with a blank lampshade of your choice and get creative. If you have a motif in mind, make a few sketches first. The reason I sketch even if I have a good idea is because I like to look at my design, then simplify! Less is more, people. Originally, the above lamp had an entire tree with crazy branches. I toned it down to geometric trunk and branches so the organic shapes are emphasized solely by the leaves. Trust me, it’s much more appealing.

 

Next, I decided to use bold contrasting patterns and varied threads. Of course, this is merely another design element choice. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t a bit inspired by Anthropologie at the time. Anyway, cut out your shapes from the fabric(s), and arrange so that they illustrate your desired image. This is a great time to make adjustments; a visual representation of the actual product can be very different from your thoughts or sketches.

If everything looks good, you can grab your sewing machine and basically clean up your fabric by making crisp edges. Or, you can go the route I did and give it a messy but finished look (unintentional; totally just testing out the new Singer). Orrrrrr…you can mimic my intentional stitches by adding details (as seen in the “veins” of the leaves). One last “or:” you can bypass the sewing altogether and go for that rugged, come-hither look. I would just suggest using a little glue or fray-eliminating solution to prevent complete decay of your lampshade.

Since it would be extremely difficult to sew directly onto the rigid, rounded shade itself, I recommend using tacky glue to secure your pieces. 

 

Voilà! You went from drab to fab, as they say!