Victorian Lampshade Making

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Saturday, March 16th, 2013
10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

The design elements of the Victorian era are easily recognizable, especially in the expression of lighting and fabric lampshades. Ornate layers of fabrics, such as silks, satins, and laces are hand stitched to the metal frame, and are finished with trimmings, silk and rayon fringe, beaded fringe, and tassels. As England’s trade markets opened up to the world, influences from China, Japan and India began to appear in the home furnishings of the British middle class, creating the Victorian era of highly ornamental, sumptuous, eclectic, and sometimes “over the top” interior design.

In this one‐day course, Introduction to Victorian Lampshade Making, we will learn how to wrap a bare, 6” scalloped wire frame with a cotton tape. We will then learn how to sew a fabric panel onto the frame, add a decorative overlay panel, and finally finish the shade with trim and fringe. While we are sewing and gluing, we will discuss how to choose the correct lampshade for a particular base, how to create mood via lighting, and how to care for our beautiful creations. If possible, please bring something soft (an old pillowcase or scrap of fabric) to work on while you sew and glue. If you like to sew with a thimble, please bring that along as well.