What to Do With Old Wicker Lamp Shades
By Chelsea Cheung on Sep 14, 2024
Wicker lamp shades can wear out, become outdated, or simply no longer fit your aesthetic preferences. Rather than discarding them, old wicker lamp shades offer a range of creative possibilities for repurposing, reusing, or restoring. This Zepboo guide explores a variety of innovative ideas and practical solutions to help you breathe new life into your old wicker lamp shades while reducing waste and embracing a sustainable mindset.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll cover everything from upcycling and restoring your lamp with wicker shade to turning it into unique home decor. Whether you have a black wicker lamp shade, a white wicker lamp shade, or a large wicker lamp shade, these ideas will inspire you to make the most of your old shades.
1. Restore Your Wicker Lamp Shade
One of the simplest ways to deal with old wicker lamp shades is to restore them. With a little cleaning and repair, you can give your lamps a fresh look without replacing them.
a. Cleaning Wicker Lamp Shades
Before you consider upcycling or repurposing, check if your wicker shade lamp just needs a deep clean to regain its original beauty. Dust, dirt, and grime can dull the appearance of the wicker, but thorough cleaning can often restore its charm.
- Steps for Cleaning:
- Use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove surface dust.
- Wipe the wicker gently with a damp cloth and mild soapy water.
- Let the shade dry completely in a well-ventilated area before reattaching it to the lamp.
- For stubborn stains, use a mixture of white vinegar and water to clean the affected area.
b. Repairing Damaged Wicker
If your wicker pendant lamp shade or rattan wicker lamp shade has broken strands, you may be able to repair it. Repairing wicker requires some patience and basic tools, but it can extend the life of your lamp shade.
- Steps for Repairing:
- Identify the damaged area and use small pliers to carefully weave any loose strands back into place.
- Use wicker glue or wood glue to secure broken strands.
- Let the glue dry fully before using the lamp again.
By restoring your wicker lamp shade, you not only save money but also retain the natural, organic beauty of the material.
2. Repaint the Wicker Lamp Shade
If your wicker lamp shade is in good structural condition but has lost its appeal due to color fading or style changes, a fresh coat of paint can completely transform it. Repainting is a quick and easy way to modernize your old wicker lamp shade.
a. Choosing the Right Paint
Wicker surfaces can be tricky to paint because of the woven texture. Spray paint is often the best option because it can get into all the small gaps and crevices of the weave.
- Recommended Paint Types:
- Spray Paint: Ideal for even coverage and faster application. It works well on large wicker lamp shades and drum wicker lamp shades.
- Acrylic Paint: Use this if you prefer more control over the color application, especially on smaller or more intricate lamp shades.
- Chalk Paint: For a rustic or matte finish, chalk paint adds texture and vintage charm to white wicker lamp shades.
b. Steps for Painting Wicker Lamp Shades
- Clean the shade thoroughly to remove dust and dirt.
- Lightly sand any glossy surfaces to ensure the paint adheres well.
- Apply thin, even coats of spray paint, holding the can about 10-12 inches away from the shade.
- Allow each coat to dry before applying additional layers. Typically, 2-3 coats will give you a solid finish.
Repainting is especially effective for those wanting to create a bold new look, such as turning an old white wicker lamp shade into a chic black wicker lamp shade or adding a pop of color to a neutral room.
3. Repurpose Your Wicker Lamp Shade
Another creative way to deal with old wicker lamp shades is to repurpose them into entirely new objects. The lightweight, woven structure of wicker makes it ideal for a range of DIY projects.
a. Turn Wicker Lamp Shades Into Hanging Planters
Wicker lamp shades make excellent hanging planters for indoor or outdoor use. Their breathable design ensures plants receive proper air circulation, while their decorative appearance enhances the aesthetic of your space.
- Steps to Create a Hanging Planter:
- Remove the electrical components from the lamp shade.
- Securely attach a strong cord or chain to the top of the shade.
- Line the inside with a coconut liner or plastic pot for planting.
- Add soil and your desired plants, such as succulents or trailing vines.
b. Use Wicker Lamp Shades as Storage Baskets
If you have a large wicker lamp shade, consider transforming it into a storage basket for organizing items around the house. The open weave allows for good ventilation, making it ideal for storing things like towels, laundry, or toys.
- Steps to Create a Storage Basket:
- Remove the base or mounting hardware from the lamp shade.
- Sand any rough edges to avoid snags or damage to stored items.
- Use it to store household items, and place it on a shelf or in a closet.
c. Create a Unique Ceiling Fixture
You can also repurpose a wicker pendant lamp shade into a decorative ceiling light fixture. Its natural texture adds warmth to a room, making it a perfect choice for bohemian, coastal, or farmhouse-themed interiors.
- Steps to Create a Ceiling Fixture:
- Remove the original lighting hardware.
- Attach a new light cord kit that matches your preferred style.
- Install the shade as a pendant light in a kitchen, living room, or patio.
Repurposing is an eco-friendly way to give old wicker lamp shades a second life while adding unique, handmade decor to your home.
4. Donate or Sell Your Wicker Lamp Shade
If you no longer need your wicker shade lamp but it's still in good condition, consider donating or selling it. Many people appreciate the natural beauty and durability of wicker, so there’s often a market for second-hand wicker lamp shades.
a. Donate to Local Charities or Thrift Stores
Donating your old wicker lamp shades to local charities or thrift stores is a great way to give back to the community while ensuring your item finds a new home. Organizations like Goodwill, Salvation Army, and local shelters are often happy to accept functional home decor items.
b. Sell Online or at a Yard Sale
If you want to make a little extra money, try selling your wicker lamp shades online through platforms like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist. You can also hold a yard sale or bring your items to a flea market. When selling second-hand items, be sure to clean the lamp shade and take clear, well-lit photos to attract potential buyers.
Selling or donating your old wicker lamp shades ensures that they are reused rather than ending up in a landfill, making it a sustainable option.
5. Upcycle Wicker Lamp Shades Into Art
For those who enjoy crafting and DIY projects, old wicker lamp shades can serve as a blank canvas for artistic expression. The unique texture and shape of wicker provide endless possibilities for creativity.
a. Wicker Wall Art
Wicker lamp shades can be dismantled and used as material for creating wall art. You can create geometric patterns, floral shapes, or abstract designs by cutting and reassembling the wicker pieces. Add some paint or leave them natural to match your decor.
b. Wicker Light Sculptures
If you're feeling particularly ambitious, you can turn old wicker pendant lamp shades into light sculptures. Use multiple lamp shades to create a cascading chandelier or hang them at different heights for a modern, artistic effect.
c. Wicker Candle Holders
Small wicker lamp shades can be repurposed into candle holders. Their open weave allows the light to shine through beautifully, creating a warm, cozy ambiance. Simply place a candle inside, and you’ve got a unique piece of handmade decor.
FAQs
Q1: Can you recycle wicker lamp shades?
While wicker is a natural material, it is not always accepted in traditional recycling programs. Instead of recycling, consider upcycling, donating, or repurposing your wicker lamp shade to extend its life.
Q2: What kind of paint should I use to repaint a wicker lamp shade?
Spray paint is the best option for painting wicker because it provides even coverage and can get into the small gaps in the weave. Acrylic or chalk paint can also be used, depending on the finish you want to achieve.
Q3: How do I clean an old wicker lamp shade?
To clean a wicker lamp shade, use a soft brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove surface dust. For a deeper clean, wipe it down with a damp cloth and mild soap, then let it air dry completely before use.
Q4: Can I use a wicker lamp shade outdoors?
Wicker lamp shades can be used outdoors in covered areas, but exposure to the elements can cause them to deteriorate. If you plan to use wicker outdoors, consider applying a weather-resistant sealant to protect it from moisture and sunlight.
In conclusion, there are many ways to repurpose, restore, and upcycle old wicker lamp shades. Whether you choose to repaint, repair, or transform your shade into something entirely new, these ideas ensure your old wicker items can continue to serve a purpose in your home. From black wicker lamp shades to drum wicker lamp shades, the possibilities for creative reuse are endless!
