You can give a very extravagant and inexpensive look to a lampshade at the same time by using nothing but spoons and a plastic bottle. The shape of the spoons, carefully arranged, creates a fascinating work of art that you would pay a fortune in a shop. Instead, it is a simple handcrafted creation that requires patience and a little time to be made… but the game is worth the candle.
Steps
Step 1. Find plastic spoons that fit the case
Maybe you already have a box of plastic spoons in your junk drawer, otherwise you can buy some at any supermarket. It is preferable to use white spoons, the first time, since white adapts to any type of furniture and therefore allows you to move the lamp from one point of the house to another, if necessary. However, if you are attracted to a particular color, be sure to purchase all spoons in the same shade.
Choose all spoons of the same size, unless you already have a clear idea of how to combine different sizes. If you choose to use different sizes of spoons, prepare a template before you begin to avoid the final effect being messy
Step 2. Separate the parts of the spoons
For this project, you will only need the scoops of the spoons and you will need to discard the handles. To carefully separate the scoop from the handle, place the spoon on a flat surface suitable for cutting (a cutting mat would be ideal). Use an x-acto knife to detach the blade from the handle: slide the blade of the knife along the base of the handle, trying to cut evenly. You may need to take a few tries before developing an effective rhythm. Eliminate spoons that aren't sliced evenly.
Step 3. Set aside any scoops you cut out or collect them in a container
It may be convenient to use a large container to collect all the pallets in one place. Don't throw away the handles - you may decide to use them at the end to decorate the lampshade or lamp handle.
Step 4. Prepare the lampshade
Which lampshade do you want to use? There are two basic options: the first is to reuse an old lampshade, the second to use a plastic bottle. A lampshade made from a plastic bottle is prepared as follows:
- Wash and dry a plastic bottle of a suitable size to act as a lampshade. Large bottles are usually the most suitable. Save the bottle cap for now.
- Using an x-acto knife, cut off the base of the plastic bottle. This is the part of the lampshade that will be facing down. Insert the bulb into the bottle to make sure it fits without touching the edges of the bottle. If the light bulb doesn't fit, find a larger bottle.
- If you choose to reuse an old lampshade, make sure it is well cleaned. A clean surface is important to ensure a good fit of the spoons. You can just wipe the shade with a wet rag, but if you need to remove stains, use some dish soap and warm water. Let it dry completely before proceeding further.
Step 5. Choose which design you want to create on your lampshade
You can choose a regular pattern, such as a shell, where the spoons overlap slightly on top of each other, or you can turn the concave part of the spoon outward. For best results, first arrange the spoons on the table to see if you like the effect, then test the pattern on the lampshade using tape to secure the pieces. Don't be afraid to try different patterns to get different effects: this test allows you to check the design you like best. For the test:
- Lay the first layer of spoons along the base of the bottle. Then place the next spoon (placing the tip first) on the first layer of spoons.
- Use duct tape to temporarily attach each spoon to the lampshade. Keep adding spoons until you feel like you have a pattern ready to use.
Step 6. Glue the spoons to the lampshade
When you have decided which pattern to use, turn on the hot glue gun. Glue the spoons carefully all around the plastic bottle or your lampshade:
- Apply a small layer of glue to the top of the spoon (as close to the handle as possible). Press and hold against the lampshade for a few seconds until it feels like it has taken hold. If, on the other hand, you are gluing the spoons with the scoop facing out, apply the glue to the back of the spoon where it will rest against the lampshade.
- Keep sticking the stirrers all around the lampshade until it's completely covered and you can't see anything but the spoons. They should all be arranged evenly; It is important to make adjustments as long as you proceed to glue, because when the glue dries it will be too late.
- At this point, if you want to further decorate your lampshade, you can add glitter, sequins or more on the spoons. However, it is better not to overdo the decorations!
Step 7. Circle the spoons to cover the neck of the bottle
To hide the neck of the bottle, where the electric wire will be placed, make a circle of spoons. Apply glue in the center of the spoons inside them and stick them together until they form a regular circle. The circle does not have to be as big as the neck of the bottle, it just has to hide it from view.
If you use an old lampshade you can also do without using the circle of spoons, it depends on the shape of your lampshade
Step 8. Run the electrical parts through the neck of the bottle
It may be helpful to keep the bottle cap and drill a hole in it to keep the wire from moving. This depends on the size of the bottle neck, the size of the wire and so on, and must be evaluated from time to time.
Step 9. Hang the lampshade or mount it on a lamp base
Turn on the lamp and enjoy the effect created by the light passing through the spoons.
Advice
- If you opt for a "total white" look, make sure the wires, switches and, if possible, the lamp base match the overall look. Black, gray or white are the best colors.
- Make sure the spoons are completely dry and set before using the lamp.
- To give a brighter tone you can choose spoons of different colors that can be purchased at any supermarket.
Warnings
- It is recommended to turn off the lamp when no one is present, to reduce the risk of danger.
- Do not exceed the voltage indicated on the lamp, otherwise the heat emitted could melt or even cause the spoons to catch fire.
- Watch out for splinters that may occur when you cut the spoons. Normally the cut is clean and there shouldn't be any, but it is always best to use hand and eye protection.
- Incandescent bulbs produce a lot of heat that could melt the plastic: better use fluorescent ones.
