Looking to add a bit of fun and whimsy to your kids’ rooms without breaking the bank? These sweet, colorful DIY paper lampshades are so easy to make and have such a beautiful effect! You don’t need many supplies, time, or talent to make this craft- it’s perfect for anyone.
Supplies:
-
- 12×12 card stock scrapbook paper sheets (2 for a smaller lampshade, 3 for a larger lampshade)
- wire lampshade frame from thrift store (or metal ring from the craft store)
- ribbon
- embellishments
- We R Memory Keepers Crop-A-Dile II Big Bite Punch
(optional)
- hot glue gun
- scissors
Step 1: If you are making a smaller lampshade, cut down your paper before you start the rest of the steps. I cut about 3 inches off of my paper, so it was 9×12 inch paper.
Step 2: For the pleated shade: Fan fold (you know – fold one way, flip it over, fold it back again) your paper into 1-2 inch folds (depending on your look). Make sure you fold evenly and every fold is straight and matches up. Repeat this for a few sheets. (2 sheets for a smaller lampshade, 3 for a larger lampshade).
Step 3: Use the crop-a-dile hole punch to make a hole through all the pleats, about 3-4 inches down from the top of the paper, wherever you prefer. Repeat this for the other sheets of paper. Make sure you keep the holes lined up- this is where you will thread the ribbon through to gather the top of the lampshade and hang it.
Step 4: Glue the sheets together. I did this by taking the ends of each sheet of paper, and overlapping one pleat. Use hot glue (carefully!) to connect all the pages to create a cylinder.
Step 5: Thread the ribbon through the holes you punched in the top of the lampshade. Pull it to gather the top.
Step 6: Use hot glue to glue in the wire lampshade frame or metal ring on the inside of the paper. You will push it up as far as you can, but don’t force it. I used a metal ring in my lampshade, but I would recommend using a wire lampshade frame because it would be much sturdier.
Step 7: Add embellishments! I added faux flowers to mine to add a feminine touch and to cover ribbon.
Step 8: To create the top of the mobile, use a large metal ring. Wrap the ring with ribbon, and wrap two pieces across, like in the photo above. Tie the ribbons from the paper lampshades to this hoop and on the ribbon that is crossed.
I love how simple these paper lampshades are to make! Plus, you can be creative and tailor these steps to make a paper lampshade exactly how you want it! I hope you enjoy getting creative and making your own DIY paper lampshade!
These lampshades are used as hanging decor only and not used on an actual lights.
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