Oh dear, things are hopping and sure can see the social media and blogging can go by the wayside!

 

Isn't this sweet. Oh, a one of a kind and wishing there was another! Polka dots are from a vintage apron and trim is a soft vintage cotton jaquard that went on like a piece of cake. Some of the new trims can be a little finicky if they are not all cotton. 

It's a busy, busy time in my shop. I've stolen a little time away to sit on the porch to try to get a blog post out. Fini is sitting snuggy, close next to me giving himself a little wash. It is an unbelievably beautiful day in Vermont and had to sneak. I'm poaching on my neighbors internet while I'm sitting out:) thanks, Dave.

I can see that my great blog posting this winter is starting to fall apart... and twitter.... and fb. oh well, it's great to be busy again, not that it was that slow, but now it's rocking. Seems like the economy is having a comeback and some folks are having a sigh of relief. I don't know how many of my friends businesses pretty much ground to a halt last year. I am lucky; I have very low overhead and mostly work alone, although will have a little help this summer and try to keep my expenses down. I sense that things are picking up all around, almost every little boutique and shop I sell to tried to order in the last 2 weeks.... darn. You can imagine the impossibility of this.... stores will hold out to buy until they realize they really need some fresh inventory.

 

I found this metal tree at Brimfield. It makes a perfect lampshade tree. Works well to show off the shades. If customers can't see them displayed they'll never know they are here!
Just made this little Antique French fabric shade not too long ago. Love the shirred french trim on the bottom and fits the lamp to a tea.
I had a pair of these, but now down to one. Just made them before the Open Studio Weekend. Antique Candlewicking with blue trims. Love mixing trims.... I think it gives so much more interest to the eye. Sometimes I feel the same trim on the top and bottom is so ordinary....you know me, always trying to break the rules! And here is the same candlewicking on a hex bell. Just used up the whole spread. Time to look for another! Hey, a good excuse to peek on ebay. That's all it takes, but not always easy to find one at a good price.
please excuse the shade wrap.....but just made it and want to keep it clean. Yes, too lazy to take it off. This is a 7x12x8 hex bell, washer top.

Notes: My October Workshop is full. I suspect there is still room for the July Nantucket Workshop, but not sure. Give them a call if you are interested. tel. 508.228.1894 @ Nantucket Historical Association. 

   

Comments

[Marina]

I do love your lamps and recently bought your book which is just beautiful. I live in Northern Ireland and cannot find any supplies;even on line I did email the Frame Shop you recommend but they didn't reply which was a disappointment. I have to find a way to make some of your lovely shades.

[judy lake]

Marina,
Sorry to hear they did not respond. I know they are pretty busy. I understand Fogg Lighting is no longer selling lampshade materials. I know there are quite a few lampshade makers over your way. I'd suggest emailing them to see where they get their materials. In the states we use pressure sensitive styrene and in the UK they use pressure sensitive vinyl. I'd imagine it is quite similar.
I've also heard you can get some materials in the department stores. Or perhaps you'll have to get creative and find new materials. Some of the best creations I've done have been done by making mistakes or experiments. My book will give you the basics to get started.
If any you you lampshade makers have a good source for Marina would you please let me know.
thanks,
judy

[judy lake]

Thanks for visiting. Always nice to hear from other Lampshade Ladies! Hope all is well in your neck of the woods.
judy