Ever feel like your living space needs a little refresh but don’t want to break the bank? Changing up your lampshades is a simple and budget-friendly way to give any room a new look. Ready for some easy DIY ideas to brighten your space?
Still continuing updates, renovations and refreshing room by room. I have been taking a careful assessment of each room.
I thought why not just start with something simple and inexpensive. In doing that, I thought I would share how easy and inexpensive a Lampshade Refresh can be and how it changes the look of any room.
I know I keep saying it, but in doing that it creates purging and streamlining the décor in each room. This is not one of my favorites tasks….
Well I don’t know about you but I am not one of the “Rich and Famous” and I cant go out and just buy new when I grow tired of what I have. Boy, Sometimes I wish I was, maybe just for a day! Oh, also if I could keep what I have and don’t have to give it back. LOL. I’ve looked into my crystal ball and I don’t see that in the very near future or very far away future so I have to make do with what I have. You too?
I had a few lamps, that I inherited with the house, that had shades on them that were either too dark, different style or were very worn out. I had to do my creative decor update, my old standby, buy new lampshades and possibly paint the bases of the lamps (have not done yet) to match my decor.
Are your lamps beginning to look a little old or outdated? It’s not necessary to get a new lamp. Replacing the lampshade can transform the lamp. Looking like it is new. It is a very inexpensive refresh to any room.
As in all decorating, you will choose your lampshade according to your decor; Contemporary, Farmhouse, French, etc.
Lamp Shade Measurements
This often becomes the more one step, in the process, that gets skipped. And then measuring, use the rule of thumb, measure ones, measure twice and then measure again. They have three distinct measurements which you will need to know before you can purchase your shade:
Lampshade Harps
A lamp shade harp is the part that holds the lampshade onto the lamp. NOTE: be sure your bulb will not touch the metal or be to close as to heat it up and cause a potential fire hazard. Proper bulb size is important.
Spider Fittings
Spider fittings are the most common type of fitting for table and floor lamps and are used with harps. The harp attaches to the lamp base, and the spider fitting sits on top of the harp and is often secured with a finial that screws onto the top of the harp. Lamps often come with the correct harp included.
Uno Fittings
Uno Fittings are used on smaller table lamps, bedside lamps, and swing-arm lamps. No harp is needed as an Uno fitting attaches directly to the lamp socket.
Note: this type of shade is usually built into the design of the lamp, and is not always easily replaceable.
Clip On Fittings
Clip-on fittings are found on small accent lamps and chandeliers. The wire fitting simply clips directly onto the light bulb.
Clip-on fittings are generally recommended with low-wattage bulbs.
Finials (the “bling”)
What Are They?
Finials are the decorative “lamp tops” that screw onto the lamp’s harp. They finish and balance the top of the lamp to the base.
Finials for lamps are both decorative and functional elements typically found at the top of a lampshade or on the top of the lamp’s harp, which is the wire structure that holds the lampshade in place. They serve several important purposes:
In summary, while finials for lamps may seem like small and purely decorative accessories, they serve important functional purposes in terms of securing the lampshade, providing stability, and allowing for customization and personalization of your lighting fixtures. They are a delightful detail that adds both style and practicality to your lamps.
Assorted Stunning Finials
Why Do We Need Them?
They add Aesthetic Enhancement to sometimes just a Plain Lamp.
Finials come in various designs, shapes, and materials, adding a decorative finishing touch to the lamp. They can complement the overall style and decor of the room, enhancing the lamp’s appearance.
Securing the Lampshade: “Hello Captain Obvious”, Finials play a crucial role in holding the lampshade in place. By screwing the finial onto the lamp harp, it clamps the lampshade securely, preventing it from shifting or falling off the lamp.
They are many styles of finials that are designed with weight to help balance the lamp. This added weight at the top of the lamp can improve stability and reduce the risk of the lamp tipping over.
Finials provide an opportunity for you to personalize your lamp. You can easily swap out finials to change the look of your lamp or match it to different decor themes. But above all else it will show your Creative side.
What’s Old Is Now New
I absolutely love the idea of giving your old lamps a fresh new look without having to spend a fortune on new ones. “What’s Old is New” is a fantastic idea. I have Collected a few on Pinterest of people who have updated their lamps with some incredible DIY’s. I’m also going to give you links to go to Pinterest if you so choose to see exactly how they did it. Very very talented. I am somewhat DIYer but sometimes impatience gets in my way. So I do the things that are quick and easy and make a difference. Either way it’s your choice.
Paint and Personalize
Repurposed Lamp- Natalie from My Vintage Porch
From Natalie from My Vintage Porch. She brings these great “Dupe” for lamps that are at Pottery Barn….
A fresh coat of paint can work wonders. Consider using a trendy color that complements your existing decor. You can also get creative with patterns or stencils for a personalized touch.
Change Lampshades
Swap out your old lampshades for new ones in different shapes, colors, or materials. This can instantly transform the look and feel of your lamps.
Add Decorative Accents
Sarah from She Holds Dearly made this look so Simple and OH so Chic
Apply decorative accents like ribbon, trim, or even washi tape to the base or lampshade. These small additions can make a big difference in the lamp’s appearance.
Upgrade The Lightbulb
Lights have many options from bright white to a rainbow of colors, and three levels of brightness. Remote controlled as well as timer option. How sweet is that?
Sometimes, all you need is a new type of bulb to change the ambiance. Try LED bulbs with different color temperatures or smart bulbs that can be controlled remotely.
Decoupage
This is one technique that has ENDLESS possibilities in so many areas of our homes. By Susan Goode on Home Talk
Get creative with decoupage. Apply fabric, wallpaper, or even pages from old books to the lamp base for a unique and textured finish.
Use Twine or Rope
Kim from Sand and Sisal gives us not 1 but 2 Simple DIY tips.
This definitely is a keeper! Her tutorial is simple to follow. She will not disappoint. The pictures say it all.
For a rustic or coastal look, wrap the lamp base with natural rope or twine. Secure it with glue as you go along for a charming, textured effect.
Repurpose
This beauty is from Melissa at Inspired Room. Her little bit of Coastal can really be used in any decor style and room. Easy to follow DIY.
Get creative and repurpose items you already have, like an old wine bottle or a unique piece of driftwood, into a lamp base.
Remember, the key to a successful lamp makeover is to have fun and let your creativity shine. With a little imagination and some DIY spirit, your lamps can indeed become the stars of your room. 😊
If you use any of these tips, please pop back here and post pictures and tell us all about it. Just place your comments and pictures in the comment section. I check it all the time.
Or be sure to add your tip if it is not listed here. Our readers love to learn new things.
Conclusion
In the world of home decor, reinventing what you already have can be both budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying.
Updating your lampshades is an effortless and affordable way to transform your home’s ambiance. With just a few simple changes and some creative DIY projects, you can add a touch of personality and charm to any room. Remember, it’s the little details that make a big difference. So, go ahead and experiment with colors, patterns, and textures to find what suits your style best. Happy decorating! And don’t forget, a refreshed space can bring a renewed sense of joy and comfort to your home.
I want to take a moment to say how much I appreciate your ongoing support and readership – you’re not just a reader, but a valued friend on my blogging journey! Your input means the world to me, so don’t hesitate to share your thoughts and ideas in the comment section below the post.
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