DIY Network

Wire-Mesh Lampshades From "DIY Crafts" episode DIC-136

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This unusual wire-mesh lampshade will fit into any room. Figure A Figure B Figure C Figure D

Wire mesh can create interesting lighting effects throughout your home. DIY Crafts host Vicki Payne shows how to make a contemporary wire-mesh lampshade.

Materials:

Lamp base
Aluminum window screening
Wire cutters
Twist tie
18-gauge wire
28-gauge wire
Beads

1. Decide how tall you want the shade to be. That measurement will be half the diameter of the circle. If the height measures 7", you'll want a 14" circle. Cut a circle from aluminum window screening, using wire cutters (figure A).

2. Cut from one edge to the center of the circle.

3. Find the center of the circle, and cut out a small circle the diameter of the socket of the lamp base.

4. Fold the edges of the screen over about 1/4" around the circle and along the center slit to prevent the screen from fraying (figure B).

5. Place the center hole of the screen around the socket, with the outsides pointing upward, shaping the screen into a cone (figure C).

6. Attach the screen temporarily with a twist tie. Adjust the screen shade the way you want it. Secure it with 16-gauge wire twisted around the base of the socket; twist the wire snugly with needle-nose pliers.

7. Thread beads onto 28-gauge wire. Twist one end to hold the beads on. Wrap it around the socket base, and twist in place (figure D).