Lampshades are the perfect way to spruce up the corners of your home. Not only do they illuminate the areas that might otherwise not be fully covered by ambient light, but also add elegance and style to your home. What’s more? They are available in a myriad designs and styles for you to choose from, each better than the other. In this article, we have curated some of the most popular lampshade ideas you can consider incorporating into your decor scheme.
See also: Hanging Lamps for Bedroom to Illuminate your Space
Natural materials
For an earthy and organic feel, consider lampshades crafted with materials such as rattan, bamboo or driftwood. Rattan is a flexible material that can be woven into intricate patterns and the clean lines of bamboo are perfect for a structured and minimalist design. Driftwood comes in unique shapes and textures that can add a tropical coastal touch to the space.
Source: Pinterest @babodecor
Source: Pinterest @nyralondon
Fabric and texture
The kind of fabric you choose for your lampshade can significantly alter the vibe of the space. While soft and flowy fabrics like linen are ideal for a casual and airy look, heavier fabrics like velvet can be used for a touch of elegance and luxury. Alternatively, sheer fabrics like lace can bring about a delicate, vintage vibe. For more depth and visual interest, you can also experiment with textured fabrics.
Source: Pinterest @etsy
Source: Pinterest @letsknitmag
DIY painting
Let your creative juices flow and transform a plain lampshade the DIY way. Use acrylics, watercolours, fabric dyes or whatever medium you are comfortable with to create abstract designs, geometric patterns or paint a scenic landscape. This style can add a personalised touch to the space in a way that best expresses your personality.
Source: Pinterest @zelmarosazza4hd5
Source: Pinterest @etsy
Tassel or fringe
For a playful touch, you can consider adding decorative trims such as tassels, fringes or pom poms to the bottom edge of the lampshade. This is a versatile option that can give the lamp a bohemian flair while allowing you the flexibility to choose the colours and styles that best complement your room’s decor.
Source: Pinterest @thedesignyarduk
Source: Pinterest @GenerousAPE
Laser-cut designs
Looking for an unconventional statement piece? Well, ditch the classic shapes and styles and opt for a lampshade featuring laser-cut or perforated designs on metal or wood. When the lamp is lit, the carved patterns cast beautiful shadows on the surrounding walls and create a modern and artistic ambiance in your room.
Source: Pinterest @etsy
Source: Pinterest @etsy
Book pages or map
Use decoupage techniques to cover your lampshade with vintage maps or book pages. This can establish a literary- or travel-related theme for your interior decor. Moreover, you can ensure sentimental value for your decor by choosing the maps of places where you’ve been or books that you like.
Source: Pinterest @angiedecor
Source: Pinterest @lslampshades
Upcycled materialsÂ
Collect pieces of unused trinkets such as old wine corks, CDs and plastic spoons and get creative with them while decorating your lampshade. Simply glue these materials in an artistic way onto the lampshade to achieve a unique and eco-friendly design that adds character to your space.
Source: Pinterest @annapetrosyan77
Source: Pinterest @eslamoda
Decoupage
Decoupage techniques can be used in a plethora of ways to cover your lampshade with an eclectic mix of materials. From colourful paper or fabric to leaves and flowers, the options are endless. Achieve a collage-like effect by layering different materials, and customise the lampshade to match your room’s colour scheme and style.
Source: Pinterest @etsy
Source: Pinterest @hometalk
Layered look
Create a quirky multidimensional lampshade by combining different materials or colours in layers. One simple way to achieve this is by layering sheer fabric over a solid base or by combining different shades of one colour for a dynamic monochromatic look.
Source: Pinterest @etsy
Source: Pinterest @etsy
LED or fibre optic
For a futuristic and ambient lighting effect, consider incorporating LED lights or fibre optic strands into the lampshade. This helps emanate a mesmerising glow that enhances the mood and ambiance of your room, especially in the evening.
Source: Pinterest @trendir
Source: Pinterest @etsy
FAQs
What materials are commonly used to make a lampshade?
Fabric, paper, rattan, bamboo and metal are some of the popular materials used to make lampshades.
How do I choose the right size lampshade for my lamp?
A reliable thumb rule to follow is selecting a lampshade about two-thirds the height of the lamp base and wide enough to cover the light source.
Can I paint or dye a lampshade?
Yes, lampshades can be painted using acrylics and fabric dyes, or any medium compatible with the material of the lampshade.
What are some popular styles of lampshades?
Drum, empire, bell, square and oval are the common shapes lampshades are available in.
How can I add texture to a lampshade?
Use different types of fabrics, add trims like fringes or use decoupage techniques to add texture and visual interest to the lampshade.
Can I use LED lights or fibre optics in a lampshade?
LED lights or fibre optics can help create a futuristic and ambient effect with their mesmerising glow.
Are there eco-friendly options for making lampshades?
Using upcycled materials such as wine corks and plastic spoons and choosing lampshades made from natural materials are some eco-friendly options.
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