This Expensive-Looking Lampshade Upgrade Is Incredibly Easy to DIY
On the (long) list of household items I'm weirdly obsessed with, decorative lampshades rank near the top. Although there's nothing wrong with a standard white drum shade, designers know that swapping a basic shade out for a "fancy" version in an interesting shape, material, or color is an incredibly easy upgrade that makes any space look extra-custom.
While nothing beats a truly bespoke lampshade (check out the incredible array in this South Carolina home for proof), they do tend get pricey, especially considering that they're often needed in multiples. The good news? With the right supplies, it's insanely easy to make your own. Read on to find out how to create a glossy, lacquer-like shade that you can customize in any color. For extra credit, paint the interior a metallic gold that will cast you in the most flattering light possible.
Supplies:
- A lampshade made out of paper, metal or any other smooth, non-porous material
- High-gloss spray paint
- Metallic gold paint
- Painter's tape
- Paintbrushes
How to DIY a Lacquered Lampshade
1. Tape over any areas you don't want painted, like the metal harp. Don't worry about getting overspray on the interior of the shade—you'll paint over that later.
2. Spray the lampshade with a thin coat of paint. (If you apply too much paint, you'll get drips, so it's best to spray multiple light layers and let the paint dry in between.)
3. Repeat until fully opaque and glossy, letting the paint dry for a few minutes between coats. Make sure to coat the lampshade trim, too.
4. Paint the interior of the shade with metallic gold paint. (You might need a couple of coats.) Use a small brush to touch up around the edges.
5. Remove painter's tape and let dry overnight.
And that's it! You can use this method with literally any size or shape of lampshade, as long as it's made from paper or a smooth, non-porous material like metal or plastic. (Fabric shades, unfortunately, doesn't lend themselves to being painted, which I can tell you from personal experience.) Try different color combinations—a glossy, candy-apple-red empire shade is always chic, or you might prefer the cooler light reflected by a silver-coated interior.
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