I set about stripping the old card and multi coloured shabby silk from the frames to see what we had underneath. They were quite unusual. 4 struts. Giving the frames an odd boxed look even though the top and bottom were circular rings.

I made several prototypes with various styles, all gathers, gathered/pleated and pleated. Although the original brief was for the lampshades to have a soft gathered feminine appearance, the silk had other ideas. The silk was beautiful. Specially ordered by the client from France. The colour was a stunning old rose pink, very light weight with a texture that was crisp and firm to the touch. For gathers to drape affectively when making lampshades the texture needs to be soft and floppy. Gathers didn’t look right and neither did pleats. So we decided to go for a tailored look.

Once the client was happy with the prototype I began to get busy with a production line of little lampshades. Although small, each lampshade was handmade to perfection. 24 lampshades was a lot of lampshades! The most I have done with any one consistent style and colour. My lampshades are all bespoke pieces and I had to keep reminding myself that these were all just one project.

Lining was discussed and discussed and in the end the client went with cotton lawn. For those of you who know me, you’ll know that cotton lawn is one of my all time favourites when it comes to lining lampshades as lawn diffuses light so beautifully. I also did the gimbal tidies in cotton lawn so as not to distract the eye from the tailored silk in any way when the light was either on or off.

When I sent the client my completion image she said “Oh they look as sweet as candy floss”. They were then packed very carefully, boxed up and returned to London. The client was delighted and immediately sent me an image of how these cute little lampshades looked in their forever home.

Since then I had the opportunity to visit this gorgeous little jewellery shop in London. I couldn’t resist a little peek at all the fabulous jewellery. But what I really came for was something that looked, as sweet as candy floss. The image doesn’t do either the lampshades or the interiors justice. But the pink definitely picks up the hues in the carpet and the overall look is chic yet also soft and feminine. Below is a rare picture of yours truly. In a very high end, exclusive jewellery shop in London feeling just a little smug about 24 old rose coloured chandelier lampshades.

Jacqueline works with clients on commisssions by special arrangments. If you have a lampshade needing some loving restoration or a creative design in mind do get in touch with Jacqueline to discuss your special requirments.