Transform a paper lampshade with autumn grasses for a soft glow
A paper lampshade covered with autumn grasses brings a gentle glow to darkening evenings. You can use these light, airy grasses just as they are, without pressing. The two-ingredient paste used in this project is easily mixed from potato starch and water.
Grass lampshade—supplies:
- lampshade frame
- Japanese paper or tissue paper
- paintbrush and scissors
- a rag and a plastic bag to protect the table
- grasses
Paste glue:
- potato starch
- water
- a pot, mixing bowl, and whisk
Tip!
A homemade potato starch paste glue is clear, won’t stain the paper, and is free of antifungal agents or other additives.
Grass lampshade—instructions:
1. First, prepare the paste glue. Bring 9 dl (3.8 cups) of water to a boil. In a separate container, stir 0.5 dl (0.2 cups) of potato starch into 1 dl (0.4 cups) of cold water to form a slurry. Pour this slurry into the boiling water and stir thoroughly. Let the paste glue cool before using. It will keep in the fridge for about a week.
2. Cut strips of Japanese paper for the base and outer layers of your lampshade. Make sure each strip is at least a couple of centimeters (about an inch) wider than the frame’s openings.
3. Attach the base paper layers first, working on every other section of the lampshade frame. Spread a thin layer of paste along the frame’s metal supports, then gently press on a dry paper strip. Use more glue if needed. You can trim excess edges with scissors, but leave at least 0.5–1 cm (0.2–0.4 in) extra.
4. Cover the remaining frame sections with paper. Apply glue to the edges of the strips so they adhere to each other. Wipe away any excess glue with your finger or a slightly damp rag. Let dry.
Tip!
You can also decorate the lampshade with pressed plants. If you use pressed leaves or flowers, they don’t have to be completely dry. It’s easier to work if they’re still slightly flexible.
5. Flatten the grass stems with your fingers. Tape a plastic bag or sheet of plastic to the table for gluing. Spread a thin, even layer of paste on the outer paper and place it over the shade so the grass is sandwiched between the two layers. Gently pat the pasted top layer against the base layer using a paintbrush. Continue until the entire shade is covered. Let dry.
