pleated lampshade
Project

DIY a No-Sew Pleated Lampshade for a Fraction of the Designer Cost

June 9, 2025
2 min read

This is the easiest pleated lampshade tutorial.

There is one lighting trend catching our eye: a pleated lampshade. It adds charm to every unsuspecting corner. But the designer price tag can dim the excitement.

It’s a look we love, and Interior Designer Melissa Reynolds has found a clever way to DIY for less! Melissa brought the pleated lampshade home without any sewing—just fabric and glue. Whether you’re aiming for a classic cottage-core vibe or just want to soften the look of a room, this easy project delivers high style without the high cost.

 

DIY Pleated Lampshade

SUPPLIES

  • A plain lampshade (drum or tapered both work)
  • Fabric of your choice (Melissa recommends checking out Hobby Lobby for stylish, affordable options)
  • Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
  • Fabric glue or hot glue gun
  • Iron
  • Measuring tape or ruler
  • Pencil or fabric marker

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Choose Your Lampshade
Start with a basic lampshade. The size and shape are up to you—just make sure it’s clean and free of dust.

Step 2: Cut the Fabric
Select a fabric that fits your style. Cut it into 2-inch-wide strips. The number of strips you need will depend on the size of your shade.

Step 3: Prep the Fabric Strips
Apply glue to both long edges of each strip. Then fold each edge inward toward the center, so they meet in the middle—similar to the panels of a science project board.

Step 4: Iron the Strips
Once folded, press the strips with an iron to set the creases. This gives the fabric a neat, crisp look, essential for achieving those pleats.

Step 5: Attach the Pleats to the Shade
Start gluing the prepared strips vertically onto the shade, slightly overlapping each one to create that classic pleated effect. Work your way around until the entire shade is covered.

Step 6: Finish the Edges
To give the lampshade a polished finish, take a final fabric strip and glue it along the top edge of the shade. Repeat along the bottom edge. This hides any raw edges and gives your pleated shade a clean, tailored look.

Find more design ideas from Melissa at brasshouseinteriors.com.

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