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.
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.
See how pretty it looks when the light is on too.
Now I don't even dislike this lamp so much.
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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It truly does take the lamp up a notch! Great work Marty!
ReplyDeleteMarty, I love adding the Greek key trim. Such a great idea.
ReplyDeleteI am getting ready to redo my bedroom....did you write a post on that?
ReplyDeleteYes, you can see my complete make - over and all the tutorials here - -http://www.astrollthrulife.net/2016/04/thrift-store-room-makeover-2-master.html -
DeleteHi Marty! They look outstanding and the trim truly does take it all up a notch. Jane
ReplyDeleteLove it! You've gotten me crushing on Greek key trim! You also might slip a book under the lamp on DH's side and then the lamps would be at the same level at the top.
ReplyDeleteLove the new look.
ReplyDeleteHi Marty! I just love the extra specialness the trim adds to your lampshades! You're so good at knowing just what to do! Thank you for popping in and sharing the joy for our little Carter. I so appreciate your prayers, Marty!
ReplyDeleteYou are a sweetie,
Shelia ;)
That looks great! I love to embellish lampshades.
ReplyDeleteBrenda
Love your update! Made such a difference. Great job!
ReplyDeleteJudy
love odd lamps in a room. i wrapped 3 previously read books in burlap leftover from a fall project and stacked them to make my lamp taller. quick to make, the lamp is the perfect height and it didn't cost a thing.
ReplyDeleteLooks great!
ReplyDeleteWow! The trim really jazzes them up! Gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteYou did a great job with the lamp shade trim---so pretty. I love how you think like this.
ReplyDeleteMy daughter has two different nightstands and they added 2 X 4's on the shorter one to sit on and make them both the same height. Genius!
Jane
Gorgeous, Marty! I sometimes use books to elevate lamps and am just like you with wanting bedside lamp heights to be symmetrical. Your lampshade trim looks so nice. I haven't tried hot glue but use double-stick tape because I know I'll change things out frequently. Lol
ReplyDeleteI'm like you - it would drive me nuts if the lamps were not even! Love the redo, that trim is lovely!
ReplyDeleteMarty, what a beautiful idea! I love your lamps new look. xxx Maria
ReplyDeleteMarty- your lamps are fabulous!
ReplyDeleteThank you for the hot glue tip because I tend to make a mess.
I love the Greek key design of the trim you selected.
Everything is perfect!
First of all I love that lamp on your dresser! It is beautiful and now with the lampshade all trimmed out, FABULOUS! That trim is perfect! Well worth the little time and money!!!
ReplyDeleteGrecian key design is classic...excellent choice to dress up your lamp shades! xoxo
ReplyDeleteMarty, I love the trim you added. What a great idea!
ReplyDeleteLamps are the hardest thing to get just right. I'm always on the hunt for something a little different that doesn't cost $100+.
We've had the same lamps in our bedroom for 16 years because they are just the right shape and size. I've replaced the shades but other than that they are keepers!
Marty, your lamps look spectacular! It's amazing what a little trim can do and I really like the gold. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
Sandi
Beautiful! Now I want to add trim to all of my lampshades. They look so customized and expensive. Thanks for the idea, Marty.
ReplyDeleteTotal transformation for a few dollars. It looks like a very pricey, catalog-like lampshade. Visiting from You're Gonna Love It party.
ReplyDeleteMarty you've done it again. You are so creative. That shade looks so expensive now. Really a beautiful transformation. I will be featuring this at my next Swing into Spring party that opens each Tuesday evening at 8pm EST. Please stop by and pick up an I've Been Featured button. Thanks. http://diybydesign.blogspot.com
ReplyDelete