Make Your Own Lampshade: A Beginner-Friendly Workshop in Newent
Create a beautiful drum lampshade in just one morning – no sewing skills needed
Imagine this...
It's Saturday morning, and instead of scrolling through Pinterest dreaming about the perfect lampshade for your bedroom, you're actually making it. In just three hours, you'll transform a piece of fabric you love into a finished lampshade – one that looks professionally made because, well, you’ll learn the same core method used in professional lampshade making.
You'll head home with something beautiful and handmade, feeling quietly proud every time you switch the light on.
Sound good? That's exactly what happens at my Lampshade Making Workshop.
What You'll Make (And Take Home)
You'll create a complete 30cm drum lampshade from scratch using professional materials and techniques. Your finished shade will be fully lined, beautifully neat, and ready to use straight away.
The best part? You can choose how you want to use it. When you make your lampshade, you’ll decide whether it’s for a ceiling pendant or for a table lamp or standard lamp, and we’ll make it accordingly on the day.
This isn't a "glue-and-hope" craft project. It's a proper, structured lampshade that will last for years.
This Workshop Is Perfect For You If...
- You've never made a lampshade before (most people haven't!)
- You love interiors and want to add a personal touch to your home
- You're looking for a creative, sociable morning out
- You've been putting off buying a new lampshade because nothing quite works
- You want to learn a new skill in a relaxed, supportive environment
- Your home needs a glow up
- You fancy making a thoughtful handmade gift for someone special
Worried you're "not crafty enough"?
Let me put your mind at rest. This workshop is designed for complete beginners. I'll guide you through every single step, and you'll have all the time you need to work at your own pace. There's no sewing involved – just simple, satisfying techniques that anyone can master. If you can follow instructions and use your hands, you can make a lampshade.
Workshop Details
Dates: Saturday 6th June 2026
Times:
Saturday: 10am – 12.30pm
Location:
Newent Community Pavilion
Recreation Ground, Watery Lane
Newent GL18 1QA
♿ Fully accessible venue
🚗 Free parking on site
Cost: £50
Easy drive from: Ross-on-Wye (17 mins), Ledbury (20 mins), Gloucester (23 mins)
What's Included in Your Workshop Place
When you book, here's what you get:
- A complete lampshade making kit – everything you need to create your shade, including the lampshade frame, lining, binding tape, and professional finishing tools
- Expert tuition – I'll teach you step-by-step, demonstrating each technique before you try it yourself
- All the tools – scissors, rulers, cutting mats, finishing tool – everything's provided (other than your fabric - see below)
- Tea, coffee and biscuits – help yourself throughout the morning
What You Need to Bring
You need to bring half a metre (0.5m) of fabric.
Your fabric should be:
- Quilting weight cotton (the most popular choice), OR
- Lightweight curtain fabric
Choose a fabric you love – a pattern, a colour, something that makes you smile, or goes well in the room you're intending it for. If you're not sure where to buy fabric locally, I'm happy to point you in the right direction when you book.
Please avoid: upholstery fabric, velvet, very thick linen, heavyweight canvas, or anything stretchy as those fabric are too bulky for this method.
Why Learn With Me?
I’ve been sewing for over 45 years and I hold a City & Guilds qualification in Patchwork & Quilting — but my real superpower is helping beginners feel calm, confident, and capable when they’re learning something new.
I’ve taught hundreds of people through in-person workshops, online courses, and my YouTube channel Quilt With Kim (with well over half a million views). I’m also a guest presenter on Sewing Street TV — so you’ll be in very safe hands.
This lampshade workshop is designed to be simple, practical, and really enjoyable. I’ll demonstrate each step clearly, explain what matters (and what doesn’t!), and I’ll be right there to help if anything feels fiddly. Warm, friendly, judgement-free… with plenty of laughs along the way.
Here's how your morning will unfold:
10:00am – Welcome and introductions
We'll start with a cuppa and a chat. I'll show you some finished lampshades and explain what we're going to make. We'll go through the steps, see how everything works, and ask any questions before we begin.
10:15am – Preparing your fabric
I'll show you how to prepare your fabric accurately and we'll line up your inside panel then cut your fabric. This bit is all about getting the foundations right.
10:45am – Building your lampshade
Now the fun begins. You'll learn how to attach your fabric to the frame using a professional technique. I'll demonstrate each stage first, then you'll do it yourself with my support. We'll work methodically, and I'll check in with everyone to make sure you're confident before moving on.
11:30am – Finishing touches
You'll add the binding tape to the top and bottom of your shade, giving it that polished, professional finish. This is the moment it really comes together.
12:15pm – Wrap up and celebration
You'll have a finished lampshade in your hands. We'll take a moment to admire everyone's creations (they're always so different and lovely), and I'll answer any final questions about caring for your shade or making more at home.
You'll leave by 12:30pm with your completed lampshade, ready to use.
Ready to Make Something Beautiful?
Here's what you get:
- Expert tuition
- A complete lampshade making kit (worth over £15)
- A finished, professional-quality drum lampshade
- Tea and coffee
- A new skill you can use again and again
Spaces are limited, and I keep the group small so everyone gets the attention they need. Make sure you book your place now.
You Deserve a Morning Like This
I started running these workshops because I believe making something with your own hands is good for the soul. There's something quietly satisfying about turning a piece of fabric into something functional and beautiful – something that will light up your home for years to come.
You don't need to be "crafty" or experienced. You just need to turn up with your fabric and an open mind. I'll take care of the rest.
I'd love to have you join us on 6th June.
See you there,
Kim x
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any sewing skills?
No, none at all. There's no sewing involved in this workshop. We use professional lampshade-making techniques that rely on adhesive and careful measuring – no needles, no thread, no sewing machine required.
What fabric should I bring?
You need half a metre (0.5m) of quilting weight cotton or lightweight curtain fabric. Quilting cotton is the easiest to work with and gives a beautiful finish. Make sure it's not too thick or heavy – if you can hold it up to the light and see a soft glow through it, it's probably perfect.
Is parking available at the venue?
Yes, there is plenty of free parking right next to the Pavilion.
Can I make more than one lampshade?
This workshop is designed for you to make one complete lampshade during the session. It takes the full three hours to create a finished shade you'll be proud of. However, once you've learned the technique, you'll have the skills to make as many as you like at home: you will have the opportunity to buy an extra kit or two to take home at the end of the workshop.
What size lampshade will I make?
You will be making a 30cm drum lampshade that will suitable for either a ceiling pendant light, a standard lamp or a large table lamp.
I'm coming on my own – will that be okay?
Yes, of course! Many people come solo, and it's a lovely way to meet other creative people in a relaxed setting. You'll be working on your own project, but there's plenty of friendly chat throughout the morning.
Are your classes LGBTQIA+ friendly?
Yes, 100%. My workshops are welcoming, inclusive spaces for everyone. Kindness, respect, and support are at the heart of everything I do — crafting really is for anyone who wants to learn.
What if I can't come after I've booked?
Please get in touch with me as soon as possible if you need to cancel or rearrange. I'll do my best to help, though I do ask that you check the booking terms when you reserve your place (please see cancellation policy below).
What’s your cancellation policy?
Because places are limited, cancellations are based on how much notice you give. 7+ days before your workshop = refund or transfer. 3-7 days = transfer/credit only. Less than 3 days = no refund. You’re welcome to send someone else in your place with 48 hours’ notice. Please make sure you read the full Cancellation Policy here.
💬 If you have any accessibility needs, or you’re unsure whether this workshop is right for you, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’ll always do my best to help.
