How to spray paint a lampshade

If you’re looking to update an existing lampshade, there are a variety of ways to do so.

The best way will depend on the color and material of the original shade and the look you want to achieve with your new lamp. Changing your old lamp into a new one can be easy!

There are a lot of ways you can revamp an old lampshade or give it a completely new look. But the basic idea is to literally just repaint it with any type of paint that you prefer.

You can spray paint it or use brushes to hand-paint on the lampshade however you’d like as long as you choose your favorite color to create a brand new, unique look for your home.

Then all you’ll need to do is match your brand-new lampshade with a simple lamp and voilà!

How to spray paint a lampshade?

Preparing the lamp

In order to take the lampshade off, first, start at the bottom of it using your hands to pull it up and off.

Once you’ve removed the middle “chunk,” you’re ready to unscrew anything that may be holding the rest of the lamp’s covering in place.

In most cases, this will be a couple of nuts or bolts at the sides – unless you have a top lampshade where it’s more likely those things.

May be screwed into the ceiling or ganged around the light bulb instead.

Covering the top

To cover a lampshade that’s being repainted, a DIYer must first protect the lampshade by placing plastic bags over its top.

Clear plastic grocery bags offer the most flexibility and accessibility, as they can be placed over any metal parts at the top of the lampshade.

When it comes time to paint it without having to use tape or fasteners.

The bags should then be taped to the inside edge of the lampshade with masking tape or blue painter’s tape.

Avoiding contact with any paint set aside in buckets on a nearby workbench to avoid getting spray paint on places you don’t want it.

Overlap many plastic bags in order to conceal different areas of the lamp as fully as possible before painting. You might want to learn spray paint chrome surfaces without creating any mess.

Placing newspaper on the surface

When it comes down to protecting your favorite clothing from unwanted paint splatters while decorating, I have an easy solution to try.

In the interest of preserving one’s wardrobe and living room carpets, try laying out some old newspapers.

Or other paper on a flat work surface in 2-3 layers – ideally ones that will not be stained by paint.

Start spraying

It is really important to make sure that you are spraying the lampshade evenly.

It is essential that it doesn’t come out blotchy or uneven in any way, so take your time and spray evenly all over.

The most important thing to remember when painting a lampshade this way is not to let it get too thick on the surface.

Because if the paint comes out too thick, it will be difficult to adhere to it later.

While using this type of spray paint, letting it sit for a few hours after spraying will help it cure (dry) before you move on to the next layer of paint.

While applying paint, it’s important to follow a specific technique so you get the best possible results.

One of these methods involves painting from the top of a surface and working your way downward (and continuing in that direction as you work).

Also, consider ways to apply a lighter color paint or spray over a darker shade applied beforehand. Lighter colors illuminate the darkness underneath allowing light to highlight your artwork.

When you’ve successfully attached your stencil, it’s time to paint.

First, prepare the surface by cleaning it with a lightly dampened cloth and making sure any dust or dirt is removed.

Slightly dampening the paint with water will allow for a smoother finish.

Following these simple steps will help ensure that your lampshade will look as polished as possible.

Spray painting the lamp

Another option to achieve a new lamp shade color is by using spray paint.

This method works on nearly any fabric, can cover an existing design, and can be done when attempting to make the shade lighter or darker colors.

To begin, use painter’s tape to cover any metal fixtures you do not want to be painted. Also, cover the interior of the shade if you wish to retain the original color on the inside.

Next shake your spray paint can and use even movements to spray the lampshade with a thin coat, being careful not to miss any spots.

Set it on the newspaper that has been covered in paper towels and allow it to dry fully before checking for missed spots.

You can repeat this process as many times as needed until you are satisfied with the new shade’s color.

Painting with brush

If you’re going for the DIY look without a spray can, grab a paintbrush and paint the shade by hand!

This works in case you need to cover a larger area on da lamp, such as with stripes.

Aside from using a paintbrush and acrylic paint, make sure to have your work area set up exactly as it would be if you were using spray paint.

Put newspaper over the floor near where you will be working. Also, make sure your lamp is turned off and unplugged.

Chalk paint is a great choice for people who want an antiqued, cracked finish to their lamps. If you’d like a less striking finished look.

You can also reduce the amount of chalk in the mixture so that it’s only partially mixed into your paint and the surfacing has more texture.

Check after finishing

Attach your lampshade back onto your lamp once it’s dry and turn it on. Leave it on to see if another coat of paint is needed.

Once you’re sure that you’ve achieved the desired finish, place your light source back onto its base and turn it on to illuminate your room with comfort and ease!

What kind of spray paint can I use on a lampshade?

You should use spray paint that is specifically designed for use on fabrics or plastics. Look for a product labeled as “multi-surface” or “universal” spray paint.

Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and safety precautions.

It’s also recommended to do a test spray on a small area first before applying it to the whole lampshade.

It’s also important to ensure that the lampshade is clean, dry, and free of dust before painting.

Can I use spray paint on a lampshade?

Yes, you can use spray paint on a lampshade, but you should use spray paint that is specifically designed for use on fabrics or plastics.

Look for a product labeled as “multi-surface” or “universal” spray paint. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and safety precautions.

It’s also recommended to do a test spray on a small area first before applying it to the whole lampshade.

It’s also important to ensure that the lampshade is clean, dry, and free of dust before painting.

Can you paint a fabric lamp shade?

Yes, you can paint a fabric lampshade, but you should use paint that is specifically designed for use on fabrics, such as fabric paint.

It’s important to ensure that the lampshade is clean, dry, and free of dust before painting.

You may also want to pre-treat the fabric with a fabric medium, which will help the paint adhere better and give it a softer finish.

Alternatively, you can use spray paint specifically designed for use on fabrics.

But, you should be aware that fabric paint and spray paint can change the texture and stiffness of the fabric.

So it’s important to test it on a small inconspicuous area before committing to the whole lampshade.

It’s also recommended to use a brush with fabric paint, instead of a roller, to avoid any possible damage to the fabric.

And be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and safety precautions.

Can you spray paint a silk lampshade?

Yes, it is possible to spray paint a silk lampshade, but it can be a bit more challenging than painting other types of fabric.

Silk is a delicate and porous fabric, so it may require more preparation and care to ensure that the paint adheres properly and does not damage the fabric.

It is recommended to use spray paint that is specifically designed for use on silk or other delicate fabrics, such as fabric paint or dyes.

Before painting, it’s important to clean the lampshade thoroughly, and pre-treat it with a fabric medium.

And perform a test spray on a small inconspicuous area before committing to the whole lampshade.

You should also be prepared to work in a well-ventilated area and use a mask and gloves to protect yourself from the fumes.

And always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and safety precautions.

Keep in mind that the final outcome of painting a silk lampshade might not always be perfect and it can change the texture and stiffness of the silk.

FAQ’s of How to spray paint a lampshade

Yes! Spray painting is a quick and easy way to update the look of your lamp. As long as the lamp shade is made out of fabric, and not paper, you can use a spray paint. You will have to make sure that the spray paint you buy is made for fabric. The last step is making sure to lay down newspaper or plastic to protect the surface you’re working on, and to make sure to ventilate well when spraying!

The good thing about spray paint is that it’s cheap and easy to find, but it freshens and updates things in a way that paint can’t. You can use it to spray paint a linen lamp shade without damaging it. But the process isn’t as straightforward as it is with other materials.

Yes, you can spray paint a lampshade white. However, you have to take a couple of things into consideration before doing so. First and foremost, you have to make sure that the lampshade is made of metal or plastic and not cloth. If it is made of cloth, it will get messed up with the spray paint. Secondly, you have to make sure that you are working in a well-ventilated area. This will prevent the paint from accumulating in the air, which may lead to breathing problems. It is recommended that you wear a mask while spraying. A third important thing to remember is to make sure that the lampshade has been cleaned before painting. This will ensure that the paint does not get chipped off. After cleaning, you can spray paint the metal or plastic lampshades with any common paint of your choice.

Always use a light color of paint for a lampshade because it can help reflect more ambient light. This will help illuminate the room better. Also, a light color of paint looks more elegant and blends in with most kinds of interior décor. You can use oil-based paint in an old lampshade that has no coating because it is waterproof. Oil-based paint can also give the lampshade a matte finish. Be careful not to use too much paint because it will look messy.

I’m not sure what kind of metal it is, but I’d recommend painting it with a primer first. The primer will help protect the metal from the paint. However, if you’re painting one of those rustic metal lampshades that are typically painted with paint, then you’re probably fine. You might want to use a primer instead just to ensure its extra protected from the paint.

Conclusion on How to spray paint a lampshade

The complete guide to spray painting a lampshade in your house is here written by me.

This guide will help newcomers in completing their project of lampshades for their own homes or for their customers.

Comment down if you have any confusion or question in your mind.

Matthew Edward

Matthew Edward is a professional painter who loves to paint and wants to share useful tips and tricks which he had learned in many years of experience in painting. He also used many products that can be used for painting he has tried and tested each and every product to give an unbias opinion about it in his review. This blog is very useful for those newbies who want to learn painting without making mistakes.