Custom Shade For Thrift Store Lamp

When I redid our bedroom last year I liked everything except the lamps.  Since the dresser is used as a nightstand on my side of the bed and it is taller than the actual nightstand on hubby's side, lamps were a problem.   Now it may not make any difference to anyone else, but I like for the lamp shade heights to be similar.  With matching lamps the one on the dresser made the one on the night stand seem off scale to me. and way too short.  I looked in my stash and found I had one candlestick lamp that would work and one regular lamp that I could redo.

This is the thrift store lamp that I made over with a little paint and gilding.  I added an oval shade for some interest and to coordinate with the other lamp.  Try an unusual shape for some added interest to your lamps.  It makes every lamp look more expensive.

This is the candlestick lamp I had in my stash.  I updated it with this oval shade. This oval column shade definitely elevates the lamp a notch, so pretty.

Not bad, but I think they can look better.  (I really want to find another lamp base for the dresser, I just haven't figured out what I want.)

A little custom trim is one more detail that helps to give the lamps a more expensive look.  There are all kinds of trim that people use - tassel trim - ribbon and patterned trims.

I chose a beige/camel color 2 1/2 inch greek key trim that I found at Hobby Lobby.  It took 2 1/2 yds for the two shades - $18.  That's only $9 a shade and it definitely makes a difference.

 I tried two different ways of adding the hot glue.  I started out this way - --

but decided that this worked better.  This kept the top and bottom of the trim glued down all the way around.  

I cut off the end, folded it under and hot glued it in place, pressing it nice and flat.  This is the backside of the shade so it doesn't show anyway.

 I love the difference it makes.  This small step takes a simple lamp and turns it into something special.

See how pretty it looks when the light is on too.

Now I don't even dislike this lamp so much.

 I really like the greek key design, it goes so well with the rest of my decor.

I think this was definitely worth the $18 and the 15 minutes it took to do them.

So what do you think?   I added trim to my Living Room lamps here, and my chandy shades here.   Do you trim out your shades or remake them?

Be sure to get all of your projects lined up for Inspire Me Tuesday.  Party goes live Monday afternoon at 3 PM CMT.  Can't wait to see you there.

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