How to Make a Lampshade With 2 Circles?

It's common these days to want to add a personal touch to your home. Creating a custom lampshade is a fun and rewarding interior design project. In this article, we'll explain how to make a lampshade with two circles, which you can customize to your liking. This can be achieved using various materials such as polyphane, paper, fabric, metal, or even wood and rattan. You could also draw inspiration from dreamcatchers to give your creation a unique touch.

What is lampshade?

A lampshade is a generally circular structure used to filter the light from a lamp or pendant light. It is composed of two circles, usually made of metal, which determine the diameter of the lampshade. These circles are connected by a frame that can be covered with various materials such as polyphane, fabric, paper, etc.

What is polyphane?

Polyphane is a popular material for making lampshades. It's a plastic-coated paper that resists heat and diffuses a soft light. It has an adhesive side that makes it easy to attach fabric or paper, allowing you to customize the lampshade.

How to choose the diameter of the lampshade?

The choice of lampshade diameter depends on the size of the lamp and the room where it will be installed. A large diameter will diffuse more light, but will require more space. Therefore, for a small lamp or a small room, it is better to choose a smaller diameter. As a general rule, the diameter of the lampshade should be about twice the diameter of the lamp base.

Steps to make a lampshade with two circles

1. Preparation of materials

Start by gathering the necessary materials: two metal circles of the diameter of your choice, polyphane or cardboard, fabric or paper of your choice, adhesive tape, wire, scissors and glue.

Once you've gathered all your materials, take the time to choose the fabric or paper that best matches your style and interior design. You can opt for a solid color for a classic, timeless look, or choose a patterned fabric to add a touch of originality to your lampshade. Similarly, you can select paper with graphic or colorful patterns for a modern, dynamic effect.

2. Cutting the polyphane

Once you've chosen your fabric or paper, move on to cutting out the polyphane. Measure the diameter of your metal circles and add a few centimeters of margin. Then, draw a circle on the polyphane using a compass or a round object of the desired size. Use scissors to cut out the polyphane along your outline.

Polyphane is a practical material because it's easy to handle and resistant to the heat of light bulbs. In addition, its adhesive side allows you to easily attach the fabric or paper you choose to cover your lampshade.

3. Fixing the fabric or paper

Once you've cut out your polyphane, remove the protective paper from the adhesive side. Then place your fabric or paper on the adhesive side of the polyphane, making sure it's taut and wrinkle-free. Press firmly on the fabric or paper so it adheres securely to the polyphane.

If you've chosen fabric, make sure it's thin enough to allow light to pass through. If you've chosen paper, make sure it's strong enough to withstand handling when installing the lampshade.

4. Assembly of the lampshade structure

Once your polyphane is covered with fabric or paper, move on to assembling the lampshade structure. Take your two metal circles and place them on either side of the polyphane, aligning them perfectly. The adhesive side of the polyphane will allow you to securely attach the metal circles.

Use tape to hold the circles in place. Wrap the tape around the edges of the circles, making sure it adheres securely to both the polyphane and the metal circles. Make sure the circles are secure and the lampshade is sturdy.

5. Customizing the lampshade

Once the lampshade frame is assembled, you can move on to the customization stage. Let your creativity run wild and add decorative elements to make your lampshade unique.

For example, you can use ribbons, braid, pom poms, or beads to embellish the edges of your lampshade. You can also paint patterns or designs onto fabric or paper to add an artistic touch. Feel free to experiment with different materials and techniques to achieve the desired result.

6. Installing the lampshade

Once you've finished customizing your lampshade, all you have to do is install it on your lamp or pendant light . Place the lamp socket in the center of the lampshade and make sure it's securely attached.

If you want to hang your lampshade, use a hook or chain suitable for its weight. Make sure the lampshade is well balanced and won't fall over.

Conclusion

Making a custom lampshade with two circles is a creative and rewarding DIY activity. With a little patience and creativity, you can create a unique lampshade that will add a touch of personality to your home. Feel free to experiment with different materials, colors, and patterns to achieve the result that best suits your tastes and decor. So, get started on this DIY project and let your creativity shine!

FAQs about creating a custom lampshade

What is a lampshade?

A lampshade is a generally circular structure used to filter the light from a lamp or pendant light. It is composed of two circles, usually made of metal, which determine the diameter of the lampshade. These circles are connected by a frame that can be covered with various materials.

What is polyphane and why is it used in lampshades?

Polyphane is a plastic-coated paper that resists heat and diffuses a soft light. It is highly valued for making lampshades because it has an adhesive side that makes it easy to stick the fabric or paper on, allowing the lampshade to be personalized.

How to choose the diameter of the lampshade?

Choosing the right shade diameter depends on the size of the lamp and the room where it will be installed. As a general rule, the diameter of the shade should be about twice the size of the lamp base. A larger diameter will diffuse more light but will require more space.

What materials are needed to make a custom lampshade?

The materials needed are: two metal circles of the diameter of your choice, polyphane or cardboard, fabric or paper of your choice, adhesive tape, wire, scissors and glue.

How to customize the lampshade once the structure is assembled?

After assembling the lampshade frame, you can personalize it by adding decorative elements. For example, you can use ribbons, braid, pom poms, or beads to embellish the edges of your lampshade. You can also paint patterns or designs on the fabric or paper to add an artistic touch.

How to install the lampshade once finished?

Once your custom lampshade is finished, it can be installed on your lamp or pendant light. Place the lamp holder in the center of the lampshade and ensure it is securely attached. If you want to hang your lampshade, use a hook or chain suitable for its weight.

Is creating a lampshade an activity accessible to everyone?

Yes, making a custom lampshade is a creative and rewarding DIY activity. With a little patience and creativity, anyone can create a unique lampshade that will add a touch of personality to their home.