Most thrift stores have a plentiful array of lampshades in different sizes and shapes. Some of them are in perfectly good condition- pristine enough to top your favorite lamp. But others need a little more attention- and if a good cleaning isn’t enough, then a fresh new repurpose might be in order. No matter the shape they’re in, this collection of upcycle ideas will have you rethinking all those shades on the thrift shop shelves.
Gazing Ball Stand
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
A pretty gazing ball in your garden can really bring color and curiosity to your outdoor space. And you know what makes the perfect base for your gorgeous gazing ball? You guessed it…an upcycled lampshade!
Christmas Tree Collar
Image credit: The Crafty Lumberjacks.
Christmas tree collars have become “the thing” these days and this upcycled version uses yarn to create a plaid pattern. And yes, underneath that plaid yarn pattern is a lampshade, which works perfectly for this shady repurpose.
Lampshades as Food Covers
Image credit: Sustainably Amber (@sustainablyamber on Instagram).
Since the fabric on a lot of thrifted lampshades is often dirty or torn, I’m a big fan of crafting with the frames. And this idea to upcycle them into food covers for outdoor parties and gatherings is SO smart.
Whimsical Chandelier
Image credit: Shabbyfufu.
Whether you’re decorating for a party, a shower, or just want a touch of whimsy in your home, then this lampshade project is for you! I love how you can’t even see an ounce of the metal frame- it’s been completely bedazzled with ribbons and flowers.
Sweater-Covered Lampshades
Image credit: Beth Bryan Designs.
An old sweater of yours (or from the thrift store) is ideal for recovering lampshades that need a new look. I love how much dimension the sweater adds to it, and the light will diffuse beautifully through the knitted stitching.
Curious Cloche
Image credit: Knick of Time Interiors.
Typically, cloches are made of bell- or dome-shaped glass…but who says that’s how they have to be? A vintage lampshade frame is a great alternative for a farmhouse or shabby chic-style vignette, if you ask me.
Jewelry Organizer
Image credit: A to Z Custom Creations via Hometalk.
Now why didn’t I ever think of this? I love to make jewelry organizers from things I find at thrift stores, but I never considered a lampshade frame for one. And it’s SUCH a great idea!
Beaded Lampshades
Image credit: Our Crafty Mom.
If you’ve ever admired the look (but not the price) of wooden beaded shades at high end home decor stores, then this dupe’s for you. Because a thrifted lampshade frame is the base, and you can easily make this yourself!
Metal Lampshade Basket
Image credit: Lovely, Etc.
You know those super large lampshades that seem overwhelming for a lot of lamps? This is a great way to upcycle one in a very functional way- a DIY metal basket. It’s perfect for towels and blankets, because you can see exactly what you’re looking for without rifling through everything.
Hanging Plant Baskets
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Smaller lampshades that are salvaged from old ceiling fans and sconces are perfect for this fun upcycle idea. Transforming them into hanging plant baskets like this is ideal for anyone with a small porch and wants to grow fresh herbs all summer long.
Map-Lined Shade
Image credit: Pillar Box Blue.
Here’s a way to add a little interest to an existing lampshade of yours. Lining the inside with a vintage roadmap gives it such a unique and intriguing look, doesn’t it? And I can only imagine how cool it looks when it’s lit from within, too.
Lampshades as Plant Stands
Image credit: Craft Invaders.
This upcycling idea for lampshades is ideal for shades that have interesting shapes or scalloped frames. Because how charming are they as a base for a DIY plant stand like this?
Showstopping Centerpieces
Image credit: Kim Pepper Blog.
Speaking of shades with interesting shapes and scalloped metalwork, here’s another fun upcycle idea. The frame is perfect for creating an eye-catching centerpiece with flowers and greenery, but still allows you to see someone on the other side of the table.
Wooden Basket
Image credit: My Love 2 Create.
Yes, we’ve already seen an example of transforming a lampshade frame into a metal basket. But for a little more structure and opaqueness, this wooden version is a fantastic alternative. And with the option of wood stain or paint, you could really personalize this to your home’s style and color palette.
Lampshades in the Garden
Image credit: Kovels Antique Trader.
Here’s an outdoor idea for all you gardening enthusiasts- upcycle a lampshade frame into a plant cage of sorts. And you could even add in the chicken wire like the metal basket to give your seedlings and plants more protection.
Shady Christmas Tree
Image credit: Pillar Box Blue.
Lampshades and Christmas trees don’t usually go hand-in-hand. Unless, of course, they’re one and the same. This is such a fun and whimsical way to repurpose vintage tapered or bell-shaped shades. And it would be SO FUN to decorate with ornaments, ribbon, and garland, too.
Garden Party Decor
Image found on Facebook/Pinterest.
Admittedly, I don’t know who the original creator of this whimsical garden party decor idea is, but I’d love to find out and give them proper credit. This photo has been floating around on Facebook and Pinterest for years, so I know it’s real and not generated by the dreaded A.I. But, doesn’t this give off such fantastic Alice in Wonderland vibes?
Industrial Bathroom Lights
Image credit: Sawdust Sisters.
An outdated bathroom light fixture needed a shade swap to give it the industrial look the homeowner was looking for. And inexpensive small lampshades from the thrift store the precisely what was needed to get this refreshed look.
Upcycling Ideas for All Those Lampshades
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
I don’t know about you, but I am SO inspired by all of these upcycling ideas. And some of them have sparked an idea for different lampshade upcycles that I might have to try in the near future. Either way, I hope you’re inspired and motivated to repurpose a shade or two using ideas from this collection.
Craft on!
S
Want to be notified when I publish my next upcycling project tutorial?
Join me on Social Media:
PIN ME!
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
Have a question or like what you see? Please let me know!