Restorations
Lampshade Restoration & Repair
Sometimes a lampshade just needs a little extra love. Maybe it’s a treasured family heirloom that’s starting to sag, a vintage find in need of updating, or a shade whose fabric has simply seen better days. Whatever the story, we’re here to help bring it back to life.
Alongside our bespoke work, we offer a restoration service for fabric lampshades. This includes stripping and cleaning, drafting new covers and linings, and recovering or redesigning pieces that need more extensive attention. If you’re attached to the shape, we can try to keep it. If you want a new look, we can do that too.
THE WHY?
You love it. You’ve held onto it. You know it could be great again with the right care. Restoring a lampshade can be more sustainable than replacing it - and it also keeps the character and history you don’t want to lose.
THE HOMEWORK
A few details help us understand what’s needed. Photos of the lampshade from different angles, a quick note about what’s wrong, and whether you’d like to keep to the original style or explore new fabric and trims. Measurements are always helpful! Don’t worry if you’re not sure, send what you can and we’ll guide you from there.
THE TIMING
Every restoration is different. Simple modern style lampshades can typically be restored within a fortnight if all the materials are on hand: more complex restorations (traditional hand-stitched lampshades for example) take longer, especially if we’re ordering new frames. Lead times generally fall between 2 - 6 weeks, but we’ll give you a clearer idea once we see the piece. If you have a deadline, just let us know - we’ll always try to make it work.
THE PROCESS
Start with an email, some measurements and a few photos of the shade. From there, we can chat through options, materials, and any design changes you’re considering. You’re welcome to visit our Dublin 8 studio by appointment, or we can work together entirely online. We’ll keep things clear, honest, and easy throughout.
EMAIL shadyandthelamp@gmail.com
FAQs
Can any lampshade be restored?
As long as the frame is in good condition then yes, but…torn / broken fabrics and linings can’t be repaired, instead we would replace them entirely. In most cases we remove all covers and linings, and replace them with new materials of your choosing. If something is beyond repair, we’ll always be upfront and offer alternatives.
Do you restore vintage or heirloom lampshades?
Absolutely. These are some of our favourite projects. We can keep the original silhouette or refresh it with new fabric and trims while respecting the character of the piece.
Can you match my original fabric?
If the original fabric is still available, we can try to source it. If not, we’ll suggest suitable alternatives from our range or help you choose something new that feels right.
Do you repair frames?
No. Unfortunately once a frame has broken, it can’t be permanently repaired. Instead, we can often create a copy of the original and build a new shade using a freshly made frame that matches the shape and proportions.
What measurements do you need?
We need the top diameter, bottom diameter and height. In centimeters please.
How much does restoration cost?
Pricing varies depending on the work required. Once we see photos (or the shade itself) and have measurements, we can give you an estimate before any work begins. You're also welcome to have a look in our online store as there might be a comparison.
Do I need to bring the lampshade to your studio?
You’re welcome to visit our Dublin 8 studio by appointment, but it’s not essential. Many clients simply email photos and post the shade to us.
How long does a repair take?
Most projects fall between 2 - 6 weeks. If you have a deadline, let us know - we’ll do our best to accommodate it.