Embroidering on a lampshade

Embroidering on a lampshade

I wanted to create a unique lampshade for using at shows that used one of my favourite patterns, the hexagons, bees and wildflowers I also use on my packaging. It was quite a straightforward project, although a bit harder to do than expected (which is why I haven't added embroidery to the whole lampshade yet). If you've ever thought of adding embroidery to a lampshade, here is a short description of the project with some tips for the best result.

At first I wanted to use a lampshade from a secondhand shop, and that is definitely an option, so have a look at used lampshades, or use a lampshade you already have for this project. However, because I had a deadline and didn't find a shade I really liked, and also because I wanted the lampshade to fit an existing lamp stand well, I went with a plain white lampshade from Ikea. 

Most lampshades have a plastic coating on the inside, which makes it hard to push a needle and thread through, and it also means that any hole you make will be visible when you turn the light on. Also, when planning your design be aware that any thread you lead along the back of the design will be visible when the light shines through it.

I used thick embroidery wool for this project, and before I started, I used a strong needle to poke holes into the lampshade where I was going to embroider. I didn't want to draw any lines on the fabric, so I created a little paper template that I moved around the lamp. 

It was good to have quite a small design element (the hexagon) that I placed in a pattern on the lampshade. Because the surface of the lampshade is curved, it is important to continually adjust your design to the overall shape of the curved lampshade.

Pulling the wool and needle through the thick plastic was a bit of an effort, and it is important to make sure you don't crease the plastic. However, having the holes in place before starting to embroider helps a lot! Another thing to keep in mind is starting and finishing threads and how this might shine through the fabric. I made small knots at the end of my threads, and then tried to cover the little ends of wool with my stitches. I also made sure not to make long stitches along the back of the design that would later shine through.

Overall I'm very happy with how this turned out. I might add more embroidery in the future, but the lamp is now on display in our living room when its not needed elsewhere, and it blends in well.

Have you tried this or would you like to try a project like this? I'd love to see a picture!

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