Gilhoolie lampshades and textiles

Maidenhead resident and Alwyn School mum Julie Gardner makes bespoke lampshades.

She sells her shades all over the country and is now sharing her skills in a series of new workshops.

Features writer Lara Cory had a chat to Julie to find out more about her unusual creative streak. 

What inspired you to start making lampshades?

"I was originally inspired by another artist who screen-prints her own fabric to make into lampshades. When I saw a photo of her in her workshop I decided I wanted to do something similar and as I was made redundant it was the perfect opportunity to change my career completely. I haven’t looked back since and love the fact that I am making lampshades to brighten up people’s homes. A bespoke lampshade made to match an interior can be a real focal point and it’s something you just can’t find on the high street."

How did you learn the craft?

"I first learnt how to make drum lampshades in March 2011 on an evening workshop in North London. I remember coming home on the train, clutching my lampshade; I was so proud.

"I then learnt how to make hand-stitched lampshades at the beginning of 2012. It was my favourite course so far. I love old-fashioned lampshades and was really captivated by the whole process. Before the course I had no idea how they were made, nor how much work goes into them!

"I hope to give similar inspiration to those who attend my lampshade workshops by making them fun and accessible to all, plus of course you get to take your lampshade creation home with you!"

What kind of people buy your shades and where can they get them?

"My lampshades are accessible to everyone. I can help choose a fabric to go with a particular scheme or I can make lampshades from fabric a client has already. Most people email me their requirements via the contact us section of my website and we go from there. I also sell my work through websites like Folksy and Etsy and have supplied lampshades to galleries as far away as Leeds.

"I would like to work more with interior designers and possibly sell lampshades through local shops but I also love making bespoke lampshades for private clients too."

Does it cost much to get a shade made?

It really depends on the size, style and fabric the client decides on. Empire lampshades are all hand-stitched so take much more time to make than drum lampshades. I also make lined lampshades with patterned fabric on the inside of the drum. These look very effective on pendant fittings.

When is your next workshop scheduled for?

"My next lampshade workshop is at Make & Do in Caversham, Reading on Friday, 6^th July, 10.30 – 1pm. It costs £40 and you can choose fabric for your lampshade from the lovely collection in their shop (http://www.makeanddoworkshops.com/). I have another one booked there on Thursday, 26^th July, 7 – 9.30pm."

Julie also runs 1-2-1 lampshade lessons from her home in Maidenhead. To get in touch with Julie visit gilhoolie.co.uk