Introduction

Rattan lamp shades have become quite popular in recent years due to their rustic charm and elegant appearance. Not only do they bring a touch of nature into your home, but they are also a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional lamp shades. In this guide, we will show you how to make your own rattan lamp shade that is sturdy and stylish.

Materials

To make a rattan lamp shade[1], you will need the following materials:

  • Rattan strips
  • Scissors
  • Glue gun
  • Lamp shade ring
  • Pliers
  • Cloth measuring tape
  • Clothespins
  • Sandpaper

Choosing the Right Rattan Strips

When choosing rattan strips, make sure you select those that are thick enough to hold their shape and resist bending easily. You can choose from a variety of colors, but natural rattan is the most popular choice for its earthy look.

Procedure

Step 1: Measure the Lamp Shade Ring

Use the cloth measuring tape to measure the circumference of the lamp shade ring. Cut two strips of rattan that are about 2 inches longer than the measurement.

Step 2: Fold the Rattan Strips in Half

Fold each rattan strip in half to create a loop at one end. Secure the loop with clothespins.

Step 3: Attach the Rattan Strips to the Lamp Shade Ring

Line up the folded rattan strips along the perimeter of the lamp shade ring. Use a glue gun to attach the loops to the ring. Make sure the loops are evenly spaced and the rattan strips are straight.

Step 4: Weave the Rattan Strips

Weave the rattan strips over and under each other in a basket-weave pattern[2]. Keep the weave tight and even as you go along.

Step 5: Build Up the Lamp Shade

As you weave, gradually build up the sides of the lamp shade by adding more rattan strips. Be sure to maintain the basket-weave pattern. Use pliers to help bend and manipulate the rattan strips as needed.

Step 6: Finish the Lamp Shade

Once you reach the desired height of the lamp shade, trim the ends of the rattan strips and tuck them under the weave. Sand the rough edges and apply a coat of varnish to enhance the shine and durability of the rattan.

Conclusion

Making a rattan lamp shade may seem like a daunting task, but with a bit of patience and creativity, you can create a beautiful and functional masterpiece that complements any room in your home. By using sustainable materials and taking pride in your handiwork, you will not only light up your space but also contribute to a healthier planet.

[1]https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/diy-rattan-lampshade-projects-4176304

[2]https://www.architecturaldigest.com/story/how-to-weave-a-rattan-lampshade-from-scratch-in-7-steps