Inside the Studio: Making a Hand-sewn Lampshade.
- Jo Speirs
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Come inside the studio as we make a hand-sewn lampshade.
Making a hand-sewn lampshade is an exercise in precision and discipline. This is a slow and deliberate craft, as far removed from factory mass-production as it is possible to be.
We begin with a bare frame and build, layer upon layer, a soft, inviting and richly textured object - one that belies the metal structure beneath.
How Lampshade Design Influences Light and Mood:
Colour. Texture. Purpose. Placement.
From the frame we turn our attention to fabric.
Colours and textures diffuse light in very different ways, which makes our work a little more complex.
Our shades must fulfil their function as a source of light and look beautiful while doing so. Equally, they must look just as beautiful in the daytime — which is why selecting the right fabric is so crucial.
We also consider the intended purpose of the completed shade and the space it will occupy. Only when these elements have been carefully balanced do we begin to think about embellishment, ornament and structure.
Building the Lampshade:
Foundation. Layers. Structure.
With the frame tightly bound and materials chosen we begin by building a foundation layer - panels are pinned and hand-sewn to the frame.
Our layers take shape – panels of lace, pleats of chiffon, hand-dyed feathers or embroidered appliques, are carefully placed and sewn securely in place bringing the shape and structure of the frame to life.
The Finishing Touches of Every Lampshade:
Fringe. Bead. Braid.
As we move to the finishing touches we step back and choose embellishments with care.
Embellishments and ornaments are not purely decorative, they disguise the hand-stitching and raw edges of each panel but of course they must add depth and character or quietly complement the overall structure.
We often achieve this through the design and application of a bespoke beaded detail, hand-dyed fringe or feather ribbon - hand-crafting from beginning to end.
We explore more about the return of the ornate lampshade in our journal article 'Why the Ornate Lampshade is Returning to Modern Interiors.'
Revealing the Lampshade:
Shadow. Highlight. Illumination.
It is only when the shade is married with its base and finally lit that the work truly reveals itself - colours transform, shadows are cast, highlights are revealed.
In that moment, the shade becomes more than an object — it becomes part of the story of the room.
If you're exploring lampshades for your own space, you can browse our collection or get in touch to discuss a bespoke piece. If you aren't sure how to choose the best lampshade for your space, read our article: How to Choose the Right Lampshade for Your Space.
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