If you are making a lampshade or getting it customized, the first thing you will need to think about is what material you would like to use. This article will review your lampshade fabric choices so you can find the right one for your lamp design.
Silk
Silk is a luxurious fabric that is elegant and sophisticated. It will reflect light adding a sense of brightness to your room. It works well in bedroom spaces.
There are several types of silks to choose from including the following:
- Shantung: This is a thin and delicate silk often used to make bridal gowns.
- Dupioni: This is a more textured variety of silk that’s slightly heavier than shantung. It works well in rustic settings.
- Pongee: Pongee silk is crisp and durable and features a thick, tight weave.
- Taffeta: Taffeta is a fine fabric with smooth texture. It has a similar look to pongee, but it’s thicker and has a more polished appearance.
- Habutai: The classic fabric has a thin, delicate texture that makes it ideal for lamps with fine details and pleating.
Synthetics
As opposed to silk, which can be found in nature, synthetics are man-made. There are two main types of synthetics used to make lampshades as follows:
- Anna Synthetic: This is a synthetic version of pongee silk, but it is not as fine as its silk counterpart. It is a popular lampshade material.
- Supreme Satin: Supreme satin is a synthetic version of shantung silk. It has a glossy, glamorous look that’s perfect for rich, sophisticated settings.
Linens
Linen is a natural material derived from the flax plant. It is two to three times stronger than cotton making it a durable lampshade material. It is porous and lightweight, so it wicks away heat and moisture. It has natural antibacterial properties. It is great for traditional settings.
There are a variety of linens that can be used for lampshades including the following:
- Linen: The classic variety has a light, consistent weave, and a relaxed texture.
- Fine Linen: Fine Linen has an even more consistent weave than plain linen. It provides a delicate, airy aesthetic.
- Flax Linen: Flax linen is more textured than other linens giving it a less formal appearance.
- Handkerchief linen: This 100% natural form of linen provides an upscale look.
Cotton
Cotton is a popular lampshade material because it’s durable, versatile, easy to clean and it drapes and gathers well. There are several varieties of the fabric available but soft touch is most used for lampshades due to its uniform appearance, lightweight texture, and durability. It has a tight weave that makes it a great alternative to linen.
A cotton lampshade is a good choice for rustic settings. It provides an understated beauty that’s fit for a variety of decors. It’s also an ideal choice for locations that tend to gather dust as it is easy to clean.
Still not sure what fabric is best for your lampshade? Come into Lamp and Fixture. We will help you choose the material that’s right and come up with a customized design you will love.
