Use Beads To Transform A Simple Hoop Into The Cutest, Retro Lampshade

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Lighting is one of the more important aspects of a home, and it can also be one of those things that's almost taken for granted. However, lighting can be a decorative element, particularly depending on how it is styled and the smaller details that add color and charm to the room. One simple way to elevate any area is by incorporating a unique lampshade that adds a pop of color, whimsy, or retro vibes into your space. You can easily DIY your own with projects such as this one that turns an old pot lid into a one-of-a-kind lampshade or if you're into beadwork, you may want to use those to create something different. One retro-inspired project worth trying that's unique and colorful comes from studiokuma on Instagram. This project lets you create a hanging lampshade that's easily customizable using a metal hoop as the frame.

In order to make your own beaded lampshade, there are a few supplies you'll need. The original creator used Perler beads, like INSCRAFT Fuse Beads, as the main component of this lampshade. You'll also need a metal hoop, embroidery floss, a bead pegboard, a threader, and a pair of tweezers. The size of the hoop you pick will also determine how much embroidery floss and how many beads you'll need. In the original project, over 6,000 beads were used. Of course, you'll also need a lot of time, patience, and organization for this particular DIY.

If you want to DIY a lampshade to add some whimsy in your home, this project can help you do that. However, just make sure you have plenty of time to dedicate to this DIY, as it's a long process. Start by determining the pattern for your shade. While the original creator was inspired by crochet squares, make a design that works for your space. Once you decide the design, begin laying out the beads on the pegboard. You'll have to do this in sections, as most pegboards are simply not big enough to lay out the entire project at once. For her design, studiokuma did 10 by 10 squares (160 strands for the hoop that she chose) to create her pattern, with 40 beads per strand.

After laying out the beads, loop a piece of embroidery floss over the metal ring, making sure that it's long enough to handle 40 beads and a knot at the end. Take the threader and slide your beads for the first strand on and then add the two strands of floss that's already on the hoop into the threader's loop. Pull the beads onto the floss and once every bead is on the cord, knot it at the bottom to secure it, cutting off any excess embroidery floss. Repeat this step until every strand is complete. 

In order to hang your lampshade, you'll want to repeat the beading steps three more times, spacing these strands out around the hoop, and then tying them all together at the top of the shade, creating a triangle hanger. Consider adding a loop at the top of the knot to make hanging your DIY easier.

If you want to customize this lampshade to make it your own, it's as easy as using different bead colors and patterns. Try using transparent beads for a stained glass effect or glow in the dark beads for extra whimsy. Finishing each strand with a larger gold bead, shell, tassel, or another decorative trinket at the end will make things feel more retro and intentional.

While the original project uses embroidery thread, you may want to consider something sturdier and less prone to breaking like craft wire. However, if you do opt to switch out the cording for wire, you will need to secure each strand at the end with a pliers, bending the wire into a knot or wrapping it around an anchor bead.

When making your own lampshade, it's important to consider safety. With the use of Perler beads, it's important to remember that they are designed to be melted, so you want to be careful that the beads don't end up touching the lightbulb, as a 60 watt can get up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Typically, Perler beads melt in an oven set to 400 degrees Fahrenheit or with an iron set to medium, which is between 250 and 300 degrees. It's best to stick with a larger hoop to keep the beads away from the bulb in the center of the lampshade.