How to Paint a Fabric Lampshade: A Step-by-Step Guide
Lampshades are more than just functional accessories; they're opportunities to add a personal touch to your home.
If you've often thought, 'Can I paint my fabric lampshade?' and are looking to revamp one that's tired looking or customise a light shade to match your interior design; painting it with Fabricoat fabric paint can be an easy, cost-effective and creative solution. Plus, it comes in a wide range of colours, so you can let your imagination run wild.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of painting a lampshade using Fabricoat fabric paint, ensuring a professional-looking result that brightens up any room.
Materials you'll need:
- Lampshade
- Fabricoat Fabric Paint
- Paintbrush or Sponge
- Soft Bristled Brush
- Paper Towels
- Water Spray
Start by laying down newspaper to protect your work surface from any paint spills or splatters. Ensure that your workspace is free from any obstacles that might get in the way.
Step 2: Clean Your Lampshade
Before painting, it's essential to clean the lampshade thoroughly to remove any dust, dirt, or debris that could affect the fabric paint application. You can use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface gently.
Step 3: Choose Your Colour
Decide on the colour you want to use. If you’re changing the colour of your fabric, the original fabric must be a lighter colour than the paint you decide to use. We’ve seen some phenomenal results with Fabricoat Dark Green and Fabricoat Olive.
Step 4: Spray with Water
Always test your fabric for water absorbency first. If it absorbs water, Fabricoat will work. Now dampen the lampshade fabric with water.
Step 5: Start Painting
Now it's time to get creative! Shake the bottle well and pour into a bowl. We do suggest you test on an unseen area first to check the fabric is fully absorbent.
Dip your paintbrush into the fabric paint and start applying it to the lampshade. Take your time and work carefully to avoid smudges or mistakes.
Step 6: Let it Dry
To ensure even coverage, brush with a soft bristled brush in all directions while the paint is drying. Allow the paint to dry completely between coats and after you've finished painting.
Your lampshade will be touch dry within 24 hours. Depending on the type of fabric paint and the thickness of your coats we do suggest waiting a full seven days for the fabric paint to fully cure. Be patient, as rushing this step could result in smudges or uneven coverage. To keep the fabric soft, brush again once completely dry.
Step 7: Enjoy Your Customised Lampshade
Once the paint is completely dry and sealed, reattach the lampshade to the lamp base, sit back and admire your work. Your newly painted lampshade is now ready to add a pop of colour and personality to any room in your home.
It really is that easy. Don't forget to check out our How To Videos that bring this process to life.
Check out our paints and tools to start your Fabricoat journey today.
