Designing Domesticity: Monogram Lamp Shade

Have you ever seen something and thought - I love it! I'm sure I can make it myself.

Well, that is exactly what I thought when I saw this. Instant love.

Shannon Berrey's monogrammed lamp shade

And it just so happens that I'd been looking for something to spice up the lamp or headboards in my daughter's room - this was the perfect solution!

Big Girl Room bedside lighting

Here's my take on her monogrammed lamp shade.

1. Create Monogram Pattern

Decide on a style and get drawing (or I suppose you could make this on the computer somehow). In case you don't know, a proper monogram should read: first name initial, last name initial, middle name initial.

I found that using graph paper was the easiest way to keep my lines straight and evenly spaced. I traced a bowl to get the shape and used a bottle top to make the scalloped edge.

2. Create Fabric Monogram

I purchased 4 squares of felt from Michael's, but completed the project with just one square. FYI - I found it useful to tape the pattern to the felt before cutting to minimize movement.

The trickiest part of this step was the scalloped edge. I kept tweaking, but I just couldn't get mine to look as perfect as the inspiration lamp.

3. Adhere Fabric Monogram

I've never used spray adhesive before so I really wasn't sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised with how easy it was to use.

Start with the middle initial first and work out.

The hardest part of this step was, again, that tricky scalloped edge. I really had a hard time making a perfect circle again.

4. Attach Trim, if using

Trim is a nice way to complete and further personalize the lamp shade. Fabric glue makes this a really easy step. I choose yellow ribbon to coordinate with the pole lamp shade.

The monogram shade adds just the right amount of color between the beds. It's not entirely perfect, but I'm really happy with the results.

If you give it a try, do let me know - I'd love to see it!

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