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Sarah Walor photo
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Sarah Walor photo
I was standing in the map section of the bookstore, dreaming of traveling. We have three small children, and it's been a long time since we have been able to go somewhere really fun. But the maps promised more than adventure; they were very beautiful. It made me wonder what kind of crafty thing I could use them for. Covering a lampshade with one of these maps meant that I could look at it every day while plotting our next escape.
Supplies you'll need:
- Drum lampshade
- Map
- Craft paper
- Scissors
- Trim or ribbon
Directions: 1. Choose your map and shade A drum-shape shade is the best to use for this project because the top and bottom are the same width, and you just have to cut out a giant rectangle to cover it. If you pick out a shade that is white or cream, you can put your map directly on it without having to remove the old fabric. Make sure the map is wide enough to wrap all the way around the shade. You can find a huge variety online, or bookstores sometimes have a selection. Purchase a map that is rolled rather than folded to avoid crease marks. 2. Prep your shade If your lampshade came with trim on the top and bottom, carefully pull it off so you have a flat surface. 3. Make a pattern of your lampshade You will need a roll of craft paper, or you can tape a few paper grocery bags together. Lay your shade on its side on the paper and starting at the seam, roll the lampshade over the paper, tracing both the top and bottom of the shade. Stop when you get back to the seam but add an extra inch to the length of your pattern so the paper can overlap on the back of the lamp shade. 4. Cut out your map Spread out the map on a hardwood floor or large table. Lay the paper pattern over the map and decide which section of the maps you want to use. Then, using a pencil, trace the edges of the pattern onto the map and cut it out. 5. Attach the map to the shade Apply a thin coat of spray mount to the shade to attach the map. To keep the paper straight on the shade, place the lampshade on the floor and put the bottom edge of the paper on the floor as you wrap it around the shade. Rub the paper onto the shade to remove the air bubbles. 6. Add finishing touches Using craft glue, attach bias tape or ribbon to the edge of the top and bottom of the shade to finish the edge.
