It is always hard for me to find that perfect lampshade. They are usually solid and a bit boring -- unless I'm ready to spend the big bucks and get something custom-made or from a designer show room. What is easy is finding that simple, plain shade that is ready for your next DIY project.

Gather:

Fabric

Spray Adhesive

Fabri-Tac

Trim to hide edge on inside

Measuring Tape

Scissors

Pencil

Fabric marker or chalk

Create:

1. Measure the height and circumference of your drum shade. Add 1 inch to both measurements.

2. Draw out these measurements on your fabric with fabric marker or chalk. Cut out this rectangle.

3. Spray a section of the outside of the drum shade with adhesive in a well-ventilated area. Center your fabric here, leaving 1/2 inch above and below the shade. Continue spraying and sticking your fabric to the drum shade.

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4. When you have reached the ends, stick down one edge to the drum shade. Fold over the remaining edge a scant 3/4-inch so that it overlaps the other edge a bit. Use Fabri-Tac glue to secure this edge onto the drum shade.

5. Using Fabri-Tac and your trim of choice, fold the extra 1/2-inch of top and bottom fabric over to the inside of the shade and glue down. Use the trim to cover the cut edge of fabric.

I love the shape of modern drum shades, and it just so happens this is the simplest shape to cover in your fabric. I chose a nice sheer fabric that I had left over from a dust skirt I had made for my bed.

Dena Fishbein is the designer and artist behind many home, gift and paper products found at your favorite stores. To ask her how to embellish anything, visit her blog at denadesigns.com. Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service

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