DIY Bird Lampshade

This is a really simple project but some patience is required!

I've been itching to do some more DIYing (when aren't I?!) and, this time, it was my lampshade that was lucky enough to get the star treatment!

 I've had this lampshade for a while now and as pretty as it is, it just doesn't go with the rest of my room.

I've wanted to do something with birds for some time and I thought a bird lampshade would look lovely :-) I went on to one of my favourite websites The Graphics Fairy to hunt out some lovely bird and egg graphics and I also visited this site: http://wordplay.hubpages.com/hub/free-bird-pictures.

What's great about this is that you can use any images you want, they don't have to be birds!

Step 1: Print the images out. Print a reverse version of each image you print so that each will be double-sided. 

 Step 2: Cut the birds out. Stick one onto thin cardboard-don't use PVA as you risk it wrinkling. Just stick with a glue stick-and cut around it. Then glue the reverse bird onto the other side and trim any excess edges.

 Step 3: Apply two coats of acrylic varnish or PVA to each side of the birds. I used the same varnish I use for decoupage. I'm not sure how well PVA would work but you can always test it beforehand. Allow time to try between coats and you should be left with some nice shiny birds!

Step 4: I removed the dangly jewels from the old lampshade. I gave it a wipe with a damp cloth to remove dust and any other surface debris. I was left with this:

Step 5: Use thread to attach each piece together. I chose to leave eggs dangling on the end of each piece. Use large metal split rings (these can be found from most craft or beading shops) to attach the hanging pieces to the lampshade.

This is what I ended up with:

I'm so happy with how it turned out! It looks really cute in my room and will hopefully cast some lovely shapes on my walls when the sun hits it.

The same technique could be used for a baby mobile or hanging curtain of some kind. Such a simple process with loads of possibilities!

I'm linking up with the Brag Monday at the Graphics Fairy and Sizzle into Summer at DIY by Design.

I hope you enjoyed my tutorial! As always, I'd love to hear your thoughts :-)