DIY Lace Lamp shade = Less than $5 to Create!

As I made my way through the courses to complete my undergraduate degree, I realized two things-
1. I loved shopping and buying new things for my apartment.
2. I couldn't afford to do it all of the time.

As I full time student working part time and juggling the funds to pay for rent and "fun," I got frustrated when I'd walk through the aisles of Pier One and World Market and see 1,283,920 items that I wanted but couldn't afford at the moment. I'd see a couch from urban outfitters that totaled a whole month's worth of rent, or a mirror that added up to two week's worth of groceries.


To save some cash, I started doing a lot of DIY projects inspired by decor that I'd see in magazines and stores, and the results were very similar to the original piece in some cases.
When I went to France a few years ago, I recall passing a shop window that had a beautiful hanging lamp made of lace, and I really wanted it but assumed it was ridiculously expensive. It was one of those oh-wow-it's-so-cute-I'm-not-going-to-bother-looking-at-the-pricetag items.  It was still on my mind years later, and it wasn't until a few months ago that I found DIY lace lamp instructions somewhere on the web. It's SO easy and CHEAP to produce. ~salivates~

Constructing the lampshade is very simple--all you need is a balloon, Mod Podge (or Elmer's glue), lace doilies or a lace tablecloth (which can be purchased at a local thrift store for less than $2) and a pair of scissors.

The size of your lamp depends on the size of the balloon. If you go to the party store or perhaps even Target or Walmart, you can purchase singular balloons in various sizes (I personally prefer larger balloons).

All you have to do is:

1. Blow up the balloon to the desired size and tie it (beach balls also work for a very large lamp!)
2. Pour Mod Podge or glue into a blow and add a little bit of water so it's a little runny.
3. Dip neatly trimmed strips of lace into the solution and then cover the balloon with it.
4. Let it dry 
5. When it's fully dry, you're going to pop the balloon and the lace globe will hold it's form
6. Cut a small hole in the top of the globe so you can put the hanging light in it.
7. Voilà!

The same can be done with hemp or cotton string, which can be purchased at your local hardware or craft store. 

After learning about these, I've developed an obsession with DIY lamp fixtures, which will definitely shine bright in my next apartment. The best part is the beautiful and sultry shadow patterns that they make on the wall, making a perfectly quaint and intimate setting!~~~