Examples of older work
The "Shallow Scallop" frame is one of my favorites to work with. She allows for plenty of light while providing a romantic and mysterious glow.
I've used silks and Kona cotton, cut-away velvet and vintage netting. A recent client requested this shade in a Gothic motif for his "Edgar Allen Poe" room - that was very fun to envision and create!
In the photos below, you can see one done in deep reds an
Moroccan Lamps
Refurbishing and embellishing Moroccan Lamps
McMennamins Lamps
For the past four years, I've had the privilege of refurbishing, restoring, and embellishing vintage, hand-punched, brass lamps for McMenamins, a family-owned chain of brewpubs, music venues, historic hotels and theater pubs in Oregon and Washington.
I've used a special type of silk that's woven of two or more colors as you can see in the blue and violet shade below. The two colors give the lamp an iridescent appearance which seems to change depending on where you stand to view it. To add character and interest, each shade is further embellished with unique pieces of jewelry, beading and hand dyed fringe.
Morning Glory
One of my clients requested a lamp and shade for her "Prayer Corner" and "Morning Glory" was the result.
Morning Glory was constructed on a "Square Bridge" wire frame, lined with crepe backed satin and embellished with delicate flowers. Her outer layers of silks and vintage style netting were then accented with silk embroidery and swarovski cystals. Finally, beaded fringe of differing hues was added to reflect additional light and elegance.
My shades don't fit in a single category - either, Victorian or Edwardian. My favorite style comes from the turn of the century - early Art Nouveau and craftsman. More important than style, is the reflection of spiritual joy that I wish to reflect and share. We all can benefit from happy, joyous lighting!
Fire and Gold
Here is another example of a shade that pairs well with a vintage bridge lamp. This "Allison" frame was lined in gold satin and covered in vintage gold, cut-away velvet lace. Beaded fringe adds mystique and sparkle!
These floor lamps are a welcome addition to any home decor style. They can be embellished if personal heirlooms such as a treasured scout pin, pair of cuff-links, or piece of hair ribbon from childhood.
Wedding Gifts
The design of this not-so-Victorian lampshade wedding gift was inspired by the "Save the Date" card my niece sent out prior to the official wedding invitation. She and her fiance both loved the dragon fly image and I was able to make a beaded dragon fly and applique it to the lampshade.
I used vintage gold silk from an Asian gentleman's wedding skirt. It has such luminous glow!
A dragon fly was out-
Heirloom Jewelry Display
Should Grandma's cloisonne belt buckle and belt loops stay tucked away in a box in the back of a drawer ... or, can they be incorporated into a personalized, not-so-Victorian lampshade and continue to light up our daily lives?
Click on the "Gallery" Button at the top to see more photos of the shades displayed below. You can also read more in the BLOG section and follow me on Facebook
Papa's Shirt ...
When a loved one passes away, it feels fitting to find ways to remember and honor them. This is the shade I made from my father-in-law's beautiful, polished cotton shirt.
My husband designed the lamp. Displaying family treasures and heirlooms as light fixtures, keeps memories alive so family members feel the warmth!