DIY Fabric Cover Lampshade: Easy & Stylish

Marilyn Jul 10, 2026

Transforming a plain lampshade into a stylish and personalized piece is easier than you think with a DIY fabric cover. Not only does this project allow you to express your creativity, but it also adds a touch of warmth and texture to your space. Let's dive into the step-by-step process of creating a DIY fabric cover lampshade.

how to cover a lampshade
how to cover a lampshade

Before you begin, gather your materials: a lampshade, fabric of your choice, scissors, straight pins, fabric glue, a pencil, and a measuring tape. Ensure your fabric is washable, as you'll want to clean it periodically. Now, let's get started!

Re-cover your own Lampshades
Re-cover your own Lampshades

Measuring and Cutting the Fabric

Begin by measuring the height and circumference of your lampshade. Add 1 inch to both measurements to account for overlap and seam allowance. Cut your fabric to these dimensions, ensuring the pattern is aligned for a seamless look.

Make Custom DIY Lampshades
Make Custom DIY Lampshades

For example, if your lampshade is 12 inches high and 24 inches in circumference, you'll need a fabric strip that's 13 inches high and 25 inches wide.

Preparing the Lampshade

How to Cover a Lampshade with Fabric
How to Cover a Lampshade with Fabric

Remove the shade from the lamp base and, if needed, gently remove any existing cover. Clean the lampshade to ensure the fabric adheres properly.

Using straight pins, mark the top and bottom edges of the lampshade. This will serve as a guide for positioning your fabric.

Attaching the Fabric

a person holding a lamp shade with writing on it that says found this old shade
a person holding a lamp shade with writing on it that says found this old shade

Starting at the top of the lampshade, apply a thin line of fabric glue along the marked edge. Carefully align the top edge of your fabric strip with the pin, pressing it firmly into place. Allow the glue to set for a few seconds before moving on.

Wrap the fabric around the lampshade, using the pins as guides to maintain a straight line. Apply glue as you go, using a cloth or your fingers to smooth out any wrinkles or bubbles. Once you reach the starting point, overlap the fabric by 1 inch and secure it with glue.

Finishing Touches

How to Cover a Lampshade with Fabric in 9 Steps
How to Cover a Lampshade with Fabric in 9 Steps

Allow the glue to dry completely according to the package instructions. Once dry, trim any excess fabric from the top and bottom edges using sharp scissors.

For a polished look, you can add a trim or binding along the top and bottom edges. Simply measure and cut the trim to fit, then glue it into place. Allow it to dry before reattaching the lampshade to your lamp base.

a woman is cutting paper with scissors on a wooden table and the words repeat all the way around
a woman is cutting paper with scissors on a wooden table and the words repeat all the way around
How to Make a Custom Lamp Shade Custom Lamp Shades Diy, How To Make A Lamp Shade Diy, Homemade Lampshade Tutorial, Making A Lamp Shade, How To Make A Lamp Shade, How To Make A Custom Lampshade, How To Make A Clip Top Lampshade, How To Make A Lampshade Kit, Recover Lampshade With Paper
How to Make a Custom Lamp Shade Custom Lamp Shades Diy, How To Make A Lamp Shade Diy, Homemade Lampshade Tutorial, Making A Lamp Shade, How To Make A Lamp Shade, How To Make A Custom Lampshade, How To Make A Clip Top Lampshade, How To Make A Lampshade Kit, Recover Lampshade With Paper
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Now that you've created a beautiful DIY fabric cover lampshade, enjoy the warmth and texture it brings to your space. Happy crafting!