If, like me, you love to make useful things for your home, then this book on creating your own bespoke lampshades is perfect for you. Joanna Heptinstall has a wealth of experience in lampshade making and founded the Traditional Upholstery School.
At the start of the book there is a basic guide to the tools and materials required to make a lampshade and a well-illustrated section on understanding the component parts of a lampshade, the different shapes you can make and the various fittings you can use. If you are a regular sewer, then you will have most of the tools and skills required for successful lampshade making
The book contains 18 fully illustrated step-by-step instructions on how to make tailored, pleated, faux-pleated and loose cover lampshade designs. The photographs for each step are clear and plentiful so you can see exactly what needs to be done for each step.
There are lampshades that incorporate other techniques such as free machine embroidery and ombre dyeing and the preparatory techniques needed to make the fabrics are also included in the book so it's packed full of useful techniques. The book finishes with suggestions of the correct sized lamp base for your lampshade.
This is a beautiful, bright and comprehensive guide for anyone wishing to have a go at making a lampshade and decorating their home with lamps. Remember, your finished lampshade will be completely unique and will make a statement and be a talking point in your home for many years to come!
-- Julie Briggs * The Sewing Directory *
This is a truly sumptuous book, Joanna's passion and creativity in making lampshades absolutely shines throughout the book. There is so much inspiration in her choice of material and the shape of the lampshades, which when taken with her step by step instructions and gorgeous photography will inspire anyone to look at creating their own examples.
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Make lampshades to match the decor of every room in your house with this innovative book. Learn how to tailor and pleat fabric, decorate with trimmings and cover frames to produce professional-looking creations you can be proud to display.
I have often fancied having a go at this but books covering the topic are not numerous; therefore it is good to see this one. I often wondered what you needed to buy to make them and was pleasantly surprised, because apart from the frames most of the items are the type of materials anybody owns already if they sew. After a look at frame shapes and a list of what you need this book has two main sections: tailored and pleated shades. In each section there is an in-depth guide to the core skills followed by several projects replete with easy to follow staged photographs. Is it difficult? This is not a book for a beginner to any type of sewing because you need a good basic knowledge of how to use a machine etc but broken down into manageable steps it is easier than I thought. It is a craft that relies on precision and attention to detail to get the fit right, but the results are very professional and rewarding. Find out what materials to use, have a go with some that you would not think ideal for lampshades but which work well and use up lots of scraps with some fun effects. Make loose covers and some of your own trimmings as well as shades for a garden party using ribbon. Definitely one for the keeper shelf.
-- Rachel Hyde * myshelf.com *
This is a wonderful book for anyone who, like me, wants to have a go at creating their own beautiful/unique lampshades. There is something to fit everyone's taste, style and budget here. All you need to get started is a general sewing kit, which most households have. The book is so very straightforward/easy to follow and beautifully illustrated throughout. Each project starts with a list of the items you require and then proceeds with numbered stages to guide you through the process of creating your chosen lampshade. Additional helpful features include clear headings, tip boxes and trouble shooting sections. With this book the possibilities are endless. IF YOU WANT TO GIVE LAMPSHADE CREATING A TRY, THEN THIS IS DEFINITELY THE BOOK TO BUY. :D
-- Jayne Alison Trett * Customer review *
This inspirational and educational book is perfect for all those who love interiors and would like to create their own bespoke lampshades. It is equally perfect for those who love textiles and perhaps would like a project designing and making a lampshade, or even just someone who fancies being creative and would like to give lampshade making a go. With exceptionally clear step-by-step photographs, anyone, even those with no experience, could achieve a beautifully made lampshade. With sections on fabrics and all the different lampshade frames (who knew there were so many different shapes of frame!) the book begins with the basics before categorizing the different projects, such as creating tailored shades or pleated shades. Once youve made your shade, the book even gives you ideas for which lamp stand would suit your design best. The clear headings, troubleshooting and tip boxes contained in the text make this a book that is easy to use, therefore ensuring a successfully made lampshade to be proud of.
-- Heather Langstaff * Customer review *
What a fabulous book. so much detail and easy to follow picture and text instruction, I never knew making a lampshade could be such fun. Great sections on fabric, techniques and tips. I cannot wait to make my very first lampshade with the help of this book. Love it
-- Susie Moore * Customer review *
