DIY Upcycled Lampshades

Hi friends! Today I’m taking a break from fall crafting to share an easy and fun project with you. I’m showing you how to make DIY upcycled lampshades and they are so adorable!

We’ve probably all had those lampshades that have been loved into not looking so fresh anymore. They may have spots, smudges, or marks. You may just be tired of them and would love a new look. If any of this sounds familiar then this is the perfect post for you! In the video below I show you how to take older lampshades and give them new life. This is a DIY project that is fun and can be done in a matter of minutes. What could be better?

DIY Upcycled Lampshades

I really love this project because it can serve a few different purposes. You can use this method as a way to cover up imperfections in your lampshades. It is also a great way to achieve a new look in your decor if you’re looking for an inexpensive change. You could also keep an eye out for lamps at resale shops, garage sales, estate sales etc. and bring them back to life by adding a little paint!

I am adding polka dots to these lampshades and I love the way they turned out. However, this is not the only way you can paint your shades! You could use painter’s tape and a paint brush to make stripes. You could also use stencils! If you have a stencil design you love you could use that or, if you have a cutting machine (like a Cricut), you could design your own stencil and really personalize your shades. I know many of us are vintage lovers and using stencils and a stain would be a great way to age a lampshade you already have!

For these shades I used the same paint that was used on the walls where the lamps will be displayed. This is a great way to tie the wall color into your decor. You could also use an accent color that you have in other decorative items in your room. As with most of the projects I show you, the sky is the limit when it comes to the variations you can try!

Upcyled Lampshades Supply List

• Lampshade(s)
• Dobber brush
• Paint
• Old meat tray (or other type of paint tray)

Step By Step Instructions

1. Start by carefully cleaning your lampshades if necessary.
2. Next, dip your dobber brush into your chosen paint. Then dab off the excess paint in two spots, you don’t want too much on your brush.
3. Now carefully place the dobber brush onto the lampshade and give it a gentle spin.
4. Continue adding your polka dots around the lampshade. Make one or two of your dots going off the edge of the shade.
5. Add as many or as few dots as you like and then let the shades dry before putting them back on your lamps.

The Wrap Up!

And that’s it! This is such a quick and easy way to make old lampshades look new again. This polka dot style is so fun but remember, there are many other ways you could go with this project. I hope you have as much fun with it as I did!

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If you love creating vintage treasures as much as I do you can also join my membership group, Tami Loves Creating Vintage Treasures. There you will get exclusive tutorials that will teach you how to create beautiful and unique pieces that will fit perfectly with your vintage decor!