Looking for a truly unique way to repurpose your old X-rays? This X-Ray Lamp Shade project not only gives them new life but also turns them into a striking conversation piece.
Whether you’re fascinated by the skeletal system or want to show off an old injury, this project combines science with style.
Why This Plan Works
- It’s an easy and affordable upcycle project.
- Turns ordinary medical images into functional decor.
- Works with basic crafting tools and household supplies.
- The result is one-of-a-kind and customizable.
- Perfect for science lovers or quirky home decor fans.
What You Will Need
- An old lamp shade
- X-rays (film, not digital prints)
- Sewing machine
- Tape
- Scissors
- Needle and thread
- Chalk
- Thimble (optional)
Step 1: Disassemble the Lamp Shade
Carefully cut away the fabric from the wire frame of your existing lamp shade.
Be sure to keep both the fabric and the wire frame intact. You’ll use the fabric as a stencil for the new X-ray covering.
Step 2: Assemble the X-Rays
Lay the old fabric flat and use it as a pattern. Arrange your trimmed X-rays in a layout you like, slightly larger than the fabric template.
Allow small overlaps at the edges. Lightly tape them together for now.
Step 3: Sew the X-Rays
Using a straight or zigzag stitch, sew all the seams where the X-rays overlap.
Most home sewing machines can handle X-ray film without issues. This gives your shade strength and cohesion.
Step 4: Remove the Tape
Once the X-rays are sewn together securely, remove the tape. This keeps the shade looking clean and helps avoid shadows when lit.
Step 5: Cut Out the Shade
Using chalk, trace the outline of your old fabric shade onto the stitched-together X-rays.
Chalk is ideal since it wipes off easily. Cut along the traced lines to form the final shade piece.
Step 6: Make a Cone
Form the X-ray sheet into a cone shape by joining the ends together. Start by taping the seam, then stitch it on the sewing machine, holding back any parts that bunch up. This can be a little tricky, especially with smaller shades.
Step 7: Attach the Frame
Now reattach the X-ray cone to the lamp shade’s wire frame. A needle and thread work best for this step. The film can be tough to puncture, so use a thimble if necessary.
Note: Take your time attaching the frame—it requires a little patience but pays off in precision.
Other Details Display
- Disassembled lamp shade shows both wire and fabric components.
- X-rays arranged and lightly taped in a flat collage.
- Close-up of sewing machine stitching through X-ray seams.
- Finished cone shape with stitched seam.
- Attaching X-ray cone to lamp frame by hand stitching.
- Final glowing lamp shade with skeletal images illuminated.
Summary
This DIY X-Ray Lamp Shade project is a fun, creative way to reuse old medical images.
With a few basic tools and some patience, we can transform them into a glowing tribute to human anatomy. Try it out and enjoy the skeletal glow of your new lamp shade.
This plan is a contribution by [CobyUnger]. Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here.
