Sewing Lampshades by Joanna Heptinstall (Vat Exempt)

Customer review

This inspirational and educational book is perfect for all those who love interiors and would like to create their own bespoke lampshades. It is equally perfect for those who love textiles and perhaps would like a project designing and making a lampshade, or even just someone who fancies being creative and would like to give lampshade making a go. With exceptionally clear step-by-step photographs, anyone, even those with no experience, could achieve a beautifully made lampshade. With sections on fabrics and all the different lampshade frames (who knew there were so many different shapes of frame!) the book begins with the basics before categorizing the different projects, such as creating tailored shades or pleated shades. Once youve made your shade, the book even gives you ideas for which lamp stand would suit your design best. The clear headings, troubleshooting and tip boxes contained in the text make this a book that is easy to use, therefore ensuring a successfully made lampshade to be proud of.

Customer review

What a fabulous book. so much detail and easy to follow picture and text instruction, I never knew making a lampshade could be such fun. Great sections on fabric, techniques and tips. I cannot wait to make my very first lampshade with the help of this book. Love it

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This is a truly sumptuous book, Joanna's passion and creativity in making lampshades absolutely shines throughout the book. There is so much inspiration in her choice of material and the shape of the lampshades, which when taken with her step by step instructions and gorgeous photography will inspire anyone to look at creating their own examples. 

myshelf.com

Make lampshades to match the décor of every room in your house with this innovative book. Learn how to tailor and pleat fabric, decorate with trimmings and cover frames to produce professional-looking creations you can be proud to display.

I have often fancied having a go at this but books covering the topic are not numerous; therefore it is good to see this one. I often wondered what you needed to buy to make them and was pleasantly surprised, because apart from the frames most of the items are the type of materials anybody owns already if they sew. After a look at frame shapes and a list of what you need this book has two main sections: tailored and pleated shades. In each section there is an in-depth guide to the core skills followed by several projects replete with easy to follow staged photographs. Is it difficult? This is not a book for a beginner to any type of sewing because you need a good basic knowledge of how to use a machine etc but broken down into manageable steps it is easier than I thought. It is a craft that relies on precision and attention to detail to get the fit right, but the results are very professional and rewarding. Find out what materials to use, have a go with some that you would not think ideal for lampshades but which work well and use up lots of scraps with some fun effects. Make loose covers and some of your own trimmings as well as shades for a garden party using ribbon. Definitely one for the keeper shelf.

Craft Business June/July 2018