Paper sounds like such a fragile substance.  One might wonder why someone would want to own a paper lamp shade.  Paper conjures images of the oriental nature, of a Zen nature, or of an artistic nature.  Paper might make one think cheap and tacky.  But the world of paper lamp shades is varied and interesting.  A paper isn’t just for recyclers or those on a low budget.

While it’s true that paper is flammable, knowing how to care for your paper lamp shade makes the difference.  Lamps are meant to aid the lighting in your home, but not usually meant to be the main source of lighting.  They are there to help you have light when you wish to relax after a long day and do things such as watch television or read. Maybe you want unique lamp shades to add to the beauty of your furnishings.

The idea of someone telling you how to own a paper lamp shade may sound silly.  Don’t you just place it on your table, a stand, or just allow it to hang in a corner?  Not if you want your lamp shade to last a long time.  A lamp shade requires proper dusting, correct placement in the room, and some are not as durable for homes that have small children. Sunlight can fade your lamp shade.  Dust can collect and cause deterioration.  Keeping your lamp shade in an area where it is out of danger of getting wet is important as well.  If you have delicate paper lamp shades, you’ll want to place them out of the way of little hands or heavy traffic.

Wood fibers create paper, so there are many varieties of paper that are used to create paper lamp shades.  Exotic lamp shades can be made from many substances such as silk, banana, mulberry, mango, lotka, and more.   Paper comes in different textures and colors, which helps create interest.  You can choose from rice paper, parchment paper, recycled papers, Kraft paper, and paper with silk interwoven into it.

Many paper lamp shades are made in Asia and India, but you can create your own using books and supplies from craft stores.  Hole punches, trim, special scissors to scallop the edges, paint, and much more can be used to help make your lamp shade interesting.