The Lampshade Academy
Create, Connect & Craft Something Beautiful
At The Lampshade Academy, we believe that creativity shines brightest when shared. Whether you’re looking to discover a new skill, enjoy a unique group experience, or simply spend a few inspiring hours immersed in craft, our lampshade making workshops offer the perfect creative escape.
Led by master lampshade maker Sarah O’Dea - founder of Shady and the Lamp, one of Ireland’s premier bespoke lighting studios - our courses welcome crafters, hobbyists, interior designers, businesses, and anyone who loves learning something new. No experience required - just bring your imagination and let us guide you.
Our Courses
🧵 An Introduction to Hand-Stitched Lampshade Making
1-Day Beginners Workshop
An elegant craft experience for curious creatives
If you’ve ever admired the beauty of traditional hand-sewn lampshades but felt unsure where to begin, this one day introductory workshop offers the perfect starting point. Designed for beginners, this class focuses on the essential skills and techniques that form the foundation of traditional lampshade making - all in a relaxed and inspiring setting. This lampshade will be unlined.
Under the expert guidance of master lampshade-maker Sarah O'Dea, you’ll spend a creative day learning:
- Stretch, fit and pin your prepared fabric to your frame
- Simple hand-stitching techniques to construct you lampshade
- Use professional glues and tools
- Finishing your shade with fringes and trims
Unlike our intermediate 2 day masterclass - where students dive deeper into more intricate tailoring, pattern drafting and cutting, linings and advanced stitching techniques - this workshop is designed to gently introduce you to the craft. You'll gain a solid foundation, enjoy the creative process, and leave with a beautiful, professionally finished lampshade that reflects your personal style.
What’s included:
- All tools, frames, and materials provided
- A curated selection of luxurious fabrics, trims, and fringes
- Expert tuition in a small, intimate class setting
- Your very own hand-stitched lampshade to take home
Perfect for:
- Complete beginners
- Creative day-out seekers
- Crafters & hobbyists
- Interior design lovers
- Gift experiences, birthdays, and special occasions
Perfect relaxed, welcoming class where quality meets creativity - and everyone leaves with something special.
💡 No previous sewing experience necessary - nimble fingers are helpful but not essential.
🧵 Traditional Hand-Stitched Lampshade Making Course
2-Day Intermediate Workshop
The art of timeless craftsmanship
This is no ordinary lampshade making course - this is a traditional hand-stitched lampshade making course. Over two carefully structured days, you’ll handcraft your own lampshade from start to finish, using beautiful materials and classic sewing techniques.
Under Sarah’s expert guidance, you’ll learn how to:
- Bind your lampshade frame using cotton tape
- Draft a pattern - both cover and lining
- Stretch, fit and pin your fabric to your frame
- Hand sew your fabric to your frame
- Make a balloon lining
- Fit and pin your lining to your frame
- Hand sew your lining
- Attach and hand sew your fringe
- Trim/ Braid application
Perfect for those who enjoy slow craft, a more comprehensive class, refining fine details, and the satisfaction of creating something truly special with their own hands.
💡 No previous sewing experience necessary - nimble fingers are helpful but not essential.
✂️ Modern & Mid-Century Lampshade Workshops
A creative experience for everyone
In this fun and informative 3 - 4 hour class, you’ll create your very own custom modern hard-backed lampshade perfect for a small-to-medium table lamps. Ideal for absolute beginners, design enthusiasts, home decorators, renters, or anyone looking for a creative afternoon.
You’ll learn how to:
- Handle PVC backing and fabric application
- Attach ring sets and tucking to create neatly roll edges
- Select and apply any trims and/or chainette fringe
- Use professional glues, tapes, and tools
Everything is provided: Choose from our beautiful selection of silk and velvet, or bring your own fabric for a fully personalised piece.
Along the way, Sarah will also share insider tips on:
- The role of lighting in interior design
- How mood lighting transforms a space
- Choosing the right shade for your home or business
🎉 Private Group Workshops & Corporate Experiences
Perfect for team-building, birthdays, hen parties & special events
Looking for a unique group activity? Whether you're planning a corporate event, team-building day, birthday celebration, or hen party, The Lampshade Academy offers fully tailored private workshops for groups of all sizes.
- Fun, relaxed, and engaging
- Hands-on creativity with expert guidance
- Can cater for groups of up to 12
- Everyone leaves with a handmade lampshade
We work closely with businesses, interior design studios, and private groups to create a truly memorable experience.
Corporate Clients Welcome - foster creativity, team bonding and fresh thinking with our bespoke corporate classes.
Why The Lampshade Academy?
✔ Small, intimate class sizes
✔ Personal instruction from a master lampshade maker
✔ All materials provided - just bring your creativity
✔ Beautiful studio setting designed to inspire
✔ Leave with a finished, professionally made lampshade
✔ Suitable for absolute beginners
Book Your Place Today
Spaces are limited to ensure a personal, hands-on experience.
Whether you’re learning for fun, for your business, or for the joy of making - we can’t wait to welcome you.