I adore monograms....on anything! (or almost anything...) I also love vintage linens. Combine the two and I am in heaven. Vintage linens, the finest damasks, the intricate detail of the handstitched monogram, the crisp feel after they are whitened, starched and ironed (I HATE the ironing part!) and what they look like on beds, as table linens, and as hand towels in the powder room. I hate to part with monogrammed linens that haven't weathered well with time. So, I decided to find a way to recycle them. One of my favorite projects...making lampshades out of vintage linens. I only use linens that are damaged and it is really a simple project. Calico Corners and Joann's sell lamp shades in varying sizes that have the adhesive backing. The paper covering is the pattern for cutting your fabric. Using "Aleene's tacky glue" glue the top and bottom and cover the inside top and bottom with gimp or trim to cover the unfinished edges. More detailed instructions are on the packaging of each shade. The Sconce shades can be made from dinner napkins or hand towels. Bridge cloths and tablecloths are a good size for larger shades.
I love making lampshades so much I couldn't stop with the powder room. I made 18 fabric covered shades for my dining room chandelier and sconces. They really soften the light for evening dining. They are made from a very small multi color check which coordinated well with the large plaid on the chairs and the floral valance and side panels. The mural in the background was here from the previous owner...lucky us!
I would love to hear your vintage linen stories!
3 comments:
Gorgeous!
These are great!
Okay---I am readin an old post here...I wanted a mongrammed shade for my daughter's bedroom SO badly but could not find a "classic" one anywhere. I will be on the lookout for a vintage linen and then come back here for your detailed instructions. I collect old monogrammed hand towels too..why didn't I think of this?!
Kim
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