Use the interesting graphic effects of old stitchcraft pattern sheets to make a unique lampshade that will form a striking décor feature for your home.
You will need
• 22 x 22mm pieces of pine – eight 180mm pieces (top and bottom)
• four 380mm pieces (sides)
• wood glue
• pattern sheet, to cover the frame comfortably
• tracing paper, the same size as the pattern sheet
• spray glue
• double-sided tape
• scissors
• craft knife
• metal ruler
To make
1 Glue four 180mm pieces of pine together to form a 200 x 200mm square. Firmly press the wood together before leaving it to dry. Repeat with the other four 180mm pieces of pine. Then glue the four 380mm lengths between the two squares, stand the frame upright and place a heavy object on top while the glue dries.
2 While you are waiting for the glue to dry, prepare the pattern sheet. If the paper is crinkled or has deep folds, iron it using an iron on the ‘silk’ setting (make sure the iron is not set to ‘steam’). Lay the tracing paper on a flat surface and spray a coat of glue on it. Place the pattern sheet on the tracing paper with the right side facing up and rub over it until the pattern sheet is firmly stuck to the tracing paper. Ensure a smooth finish by gently easing out any folds or creases with your palms and fingers.
3 Carefully affix double-sided tape to all the outside edges of the wooden frame – those at the top, bottom and sides. Note Do not remove the backing strips of the double-sided tape yet.
4 Place the double layer of paper with the pattern sheet side facing down and position the wooden frame on top of it. Place the frame 22mm from the edge of the pattern sheet so that when folded over, the paper will fit perfectly around the side of the frame.
5 Fold the paper around the frame, removing the backing from the double-sided tape as you go.
6 Once you have covered all the sides, trim the excess paper. Cut the paper at the top and bottom just long enough to fit around the wood. Use a craft knife and a metal ruler to mitre the corners so that the paper folds neatly around the corners.
7 Fold the paper around the wood at the top and bottom edges of the frame, and remove the backing from the double-sided tape as you go.
8 Place a candle in a tall glass jar and light it before placing the paper lampshade over it.
Good ideas
Use old stitchcraft pattern sheets to cover a lampshade frame. They’re even more beautiful if the paper has been yellowed by time. Turn the page to see how we made the one pictured on the left. You can hang strings of fairy lights inside your lampshades, but make sure that they contain low wattage bulbs and are therefore safe to use. To create an Oriental theme, you can use reeds or bamboo instead of wood or twigs for the lampshade frames.
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