Looking to breathe new life into an old lamp? This DIY zip tie lampshade is an affordable, vibrant, and creative way to turn something ordinary into a bold statement piece. With just a few tools and some colorful zip ties, we can create a fun design that’s sure to brighten any space.
Why This Plan Works
- Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive materials that are easy to find.
- Customizable: Choose any colors and patterns to match your decor.
- Upcycling Potential: Great way to repurpose an old lampshade frame.
- Simple Tools: Only basic tools and materials are needed.
- Heat-Safe: LED bulbs ensure safety for the plastic zip ties.
What You Will Need
- Multi-color zip ties
- Small table lamp
- Steel mesh netting with 1/4″ square openings
- Metal snips
- Hobby knife (for removing old shade)
- LED light bulb
Step 1. Measure and Mark the Mesh
Place the old lampshade on top of the mesh with the top edges aligned. Roll the shade across the mesh to measure the entire circumference. Make marks along the top and bottom, ensuring that the mesh size is slightly larger than needed so we can trim later.
Step 2. Cut the Mesh
Use metal snips to cut along the marked lines. Aim to cut close to the edge of each square in the mesh to avoid sharp edges. Trim cleanly to keep the mesh neat and avoid pokey metal bits.
Step 3. Remove the Lampshade Frame
Using a hobby knife, cut away the existing fabric or material from the lampshade. Carefully remove the top and bottom metal rings and discard or repurpose the original shade material.
Step 4. Attach the Mesh to the Shade Rings
Lay the mesh flat and place the support rings on either end. Use a couple of zip ties to hold the rings in place. Begin rolling the mesh around the rings and secure with temporary zip ties. This rough assembly gives the lampshade its structure.
Step 5. Decorate With Zip Ties
Starting at the bottom, insert zip ties through every second opening and loop them around the ring.
Continue around in one color, then switch colors after two rows. Alternate your start position each row for a staggered pattern. Keep going until the entire mesh is covered with a vibrant mix of zip ties.
Step 6. Choose an LED Bulb
Insert an LED bulb into the lamp socket. LED bulbs produce little to no heat, which is essential when working with plastic materials like zip ties. It’s a safe and energy-efficient choice for your DIY creation.
Step 7. Light It Up
Place your new zip tie lampshade onto the lamp and switch it on. The burst of color and texture will immediately add personality to the room. Plus, running your fingers through the tails of the zip ties is surprisingly satisfying!
Note: The process is simple but repetitive—take breaks, listen to music, and enjoy the meditative rhythm of decorating.
Other Details Display
- The original lampshade frame is reused
- Zip ties are installed in alternating patterns and colors
- Mesh is cut to slightly larger size, then trimmed if needed
- Entire shade is built on 1/4″ square steel mesh
- Zip ties cover the full height of the mesh
- Temporary ties are removed once final ones are in place
- LED bulb is used for safety and low heat
- Final design has tactile and visual texture
Summary
This DIY zip tie lampshade project is a colorful and creative way to personalize your lighting decor. With simple materials and a bit of patience, we can create a vibrant, textured lampshade that brings life to any room.
This plan is a contribution by [xxxx]. Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here.
