Transform A Plant Pot And Newspaper Into An Artsy Lampshade For Unique Lighting

Lighting is an important element in our homes. It not only provides a useful function, but it also adds an extra layer of style. Table and floor lamps are great for adding small pops of color or texture, while overhead lights can bring a heightened sense of drama to a room. Though there's no shortage of lighting options available through retailers, if you're on a tight budget or craving a custom look, you may want to consider using paper mache to create a unique lampshade. It's an easy and affordable DIY project that doesn't require a lot of materials. In fact, if you have a planter pot, old newspaper, and white glue laying around, that's all you need to make a stylish statement lighting feature to brighten up your space.

Paper mache is one of those art mediums that makes you feel like a kid again. Derived from the French phrase "papier mâché," which translates to "chewed paper," the technique involves combining strips or bits of paper with glue and molding it to an object, such as a balloon, or, in this case, a planter pot. As the paper dries, it hardens and can eventually be removed from the mold and transformed into a lampshade. Best of all, it's really easy to customize the style of the lampshade according to your own aesthetic. Read on to see how to make your own paper mache lampshade and how to personalize it to create the perfect lighting for your space.

Start by turning a planter pot over and coating the outside with cooking spray to help prevent the paper mache from sticking. Next, prepare a paper mache paste in a bowl by mixing equal parts white glue with water. Tear sheets of newspaper into long strips, and dip them into the glue mixture. Press the strips around the planter pot, overlapping them, until the entire pot is covered with at least four layers of paper. Allow it to dry completely, which usually takes at least 24 hours or more. Once dry, gently remove the planter pot from the paper mache, and behold your one-of-a-kind lampshade that you made on a budget.

If using the lampshade for a pendant light, cut a hole on the top of it that's large enough for a pendant light kit (like the Industrial Mini Pendant Light Kit by VTYXCTIGJ) to fit through, string the light through the hole, and hang it up. To use on a table or floor lamp, simply attach an Aspen Creative Metal Lamp Shade Ring inside the top and bottom. As for changing up the style, you could paint the lampshade all one color or use painter's tape or stencils to create a fun pattern like stripes or florals. For a touch of glam, you could gild the inside of the lampshade with a metallic paint. You could also glue embellishments onto the shade, such as pressed flowers, leaves, ribbon, or tassels. Like the look of unpainted newspaper? Strategically arrange the final layer to create a fun design.