About Dannells
For over 40 years, we have designed, manufactured and supplied professional lampshade materials, kits, components and services to makers and manufacturers throughout the world.
Our Story
Built on manufacturing knowledge, creativity and a genuine passion
for helping people make beautiful lampshades.
More than four decades of experience
Dannells began life as Martin Dannell & Co Ltd in Hackney, East London, in 1982. The company was established to support the UK's thriving lampshade manufacturing industry with specialist products, materials and services.
Today, Dannells operates from a 20,000 sq ft factory in Waltham Abbey, Essex. We remain proud British manufacturers, with craftsmanship, product quality and practical knowledge at the heart of everything we do.
The business is led by Jamie Dannell and David Little, who together bring nearly 80 years of experience in the lampshade industry. Our founder, Martin Dannell, has retired from the day-to-day running of the company but remains an important part of our story.
We enjoy developing new products, solving manufacturing challenges and sharing the knowledge we have gained over more than four decades.
Who We Help
From someone making their first lampshade to professional manufacturers producing thousands each year.
Home Makers & Hobbyists
Professional-quality kits, materials, tools and clear advice for anyone who wants to create a lampshade at home.
Independent Businesses
Products, workshop packs and practical support for designers, makers and entrepreneurs building creative businesses.
Professional Manufacturers
Reliable components, specialist materials and manufacturing services supplied to professional commercial standards.
Retailers
Creative lampshade kits and accessories that work especially well for fabric, craft and haberdashery retailers.
Schools & Colleges
Accessible workshop products that help students learn a practical skill and create a professional finished piece.
Commercial Projects
Materials, components and production support for lighting, interior design, hospitality and bespoke manufacturing projects.
A Trusted Partner
Dannells is a long-established and reputable company known for specialist knowledge, reliable supplies and personal customer service.
We support customers at every level and are always happy to offer friendly advice and technical guidance. Whether you have a question about a product, a manufacturing process or an unusual project, please contact us.
Our commitment to quality, innovation and customer support has made Dannells a trusted name among lampshade makers and manufacturers worldwide.
But don't just take our word for it — take a look at what our customers have to say.
Read Customer ReviewsMeet Our Team
Experienced, approachable people working together to support our customers and continually improve what we offer.
Diane Harvey
Customer Service Manager
Diane is often our customers' first point of contact. Friendly and efficient, she can help with products, samples, orders and general enquiries.
diane@dannells.com
Melina Hayes
Accounts Manager
Melina manages our credit control and purchase ledger. Contact her to discuss accounts, payments or any financial aspect of your transaction with us.
melina@dannells.com
David Eddison
Procurement Manager
David manages procurement and our supply chain. He also works across the company to improve systems, automate processes and increase operational efficiency.
david.eddison@dannells.com
David Little
Director
David joined Dannells in 1990 as Production Manager. Today, his responsibilities include product development, marketing, technology and the continued evolution of the company.
david@dannells.com
Jamie Dannell
Director
Jamie joined the company in 1995 and has extensive knowledge of lampshade products and manufacturing. He is active across management, product development, sales and marketing.
jamie@dannells.comMartin Dannell — Founder & Consultant
Martin founded Martin Dannell & Company in 1982 after more than 20 years of work across fashion, lighting, interiors, and soft furnishings.
Although now retired from the day-to-day business, the company's commitment to quality products, innovation and excellent customer service continues to reflect the standards he established.
Products & Manufacturing Services
Everything from individual lampshade kits to specialist manufacturing support for commercial production.
Our Products
Professional lampshade-making products for hobbyists, retailers, workshops and commercial manufacturers.
- Lampshade-making kits
- Self-adhesive lampshade materials
- Frames and ringsets
- Panels and covering materials
- Tools, accessories and components
- Workshop and business start-up packs
Our Services
Specialist production services supported by an experienced team and modern manufacturing machinery.
- Lampshade panel fabric printing
- Large-format flatbed cutting
- Soft and rigid fabric pleating
- Wet, dry and hot-melt lamination
- Commercial and specialist printing
- Production support and technical advice
Our Brands
Needcraft®
Our British creative kit brand, renowned for professional-quality lampshade-making kits manufactured in Waltham Abbey, England.
Stick-It®
Specialist self-adhesive lampshade materials engineered for professional use and available in a carefully developed range of finishes.
ShadeCore™
Professional lampshade frames and ringsets manufactured for makers and trusted by lampshade professionals.
Join Our Creative Community
“The secret every lampshade maker should know.”
Our online forum brings together more than 7,500 lampshade makers from around the world. Members share ideas, ask questions, solve practical problems and showcase their creations.
Whether you are a complete beginner or an experienced professional, you will find advice, encouragement and inspiration from a community that genuinely wants to help.
Join the Lampshade Makers Forum
How Can We Help?
Whether you need advice about making your first lampshade, sourcing components for production or discussing a specialist manufacturing project, our team would be delighted to hear from you.
Contact Dannells