How to Turn Old Leggings Into a Stylish DIY Lampshade
I have a drawer full of leggings I swear I’ll wear again someday. But you know how it goes. Some are stretched out, some just aren’t my style anymore, and some have been sitting there for way too long.
So instead of letting them collect dust, I tried something new—turning old leggings into a lampshade. And wow. This might be one of my favorite quick DIYs ever.
Tools and Materials:
- Old leggings (any color or pattern you love)
- Mini lampshade (plain works best)
- Scissors
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks
- Lamp base
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Table of contents
👉 Need a mini lampshade for this project?
Chandelier Mini Lamp Shades Set of 6
If you're looking for an easy way to reuse old clothes, add personality to your space, and create something totally unique, this is it.
This DIY leggings lampshade project is beginner-friendly, budget-friendly, and honestly… kind of addictive.
1. Slide the Lampshade into the Legging
Start by taking one leg of your leggings and sliding the lampshade inside.
You want the fabric to stretch snugly over the shade so it looks smooth and fitted.
This step is key because it determines how clean your final result will look.
2. Trim the Excess Fabric
Once the fabric is positioned, grab your scissors and trim off the excess from both the top and bottom.
Leave about 1–2 inches of extra fabric so you have enough to fold inward neatly.
Tip:
Cut slowly and evenly. You can always trim more, but you can’t add it back!
3. Glue and Fold the Edges
Apply hot glue along the inside edge of the lampshade, then carefully fold the extra fabric inward and press it down.
Repeat this process all the way around both the top and bottom edges.
Hot glue bonds quickly and holds the stretchy fabric in place, while folding the edges inside gives your lampshade that polished, store-bought look.
4. Style It on Your Lamp
Place your newly covered lampshade onto your lamp base and switch it on.
This is the moment where everything comes together.
The fabric softens the light beautifully, and the pattern adds personality you just can’t get from store-bought shades.
Tips
Choose the Right Leggings
- Thinner, stretchy fabrics work best
- Avoid super thick fleece leggings (they don’t stretch evenly)
Light Matters
- The thinner the fabric, the more light shines through.
- This creates a softer, warmer glow in your room.
Mix & Match Styles
- Floral leggings = cozy cottage vibe
- Black or neutral = modern minimalist
- Bold prints = statement piece
Why It’s So Effective
Stretch fabric (like leggings) naturally clings to shapes, which means no sewing is required. Plus, the elasticity helps eliminate wrinkles for a smooth finish.
Turn Old Leggings into a DIY Lampshade You’ll Love
If you’ve got leggings sitting around, this is your sign to give them a second life. This DIY leggings lampshade is quick, affordable, and completely customizable to your style.
You get something functional and beautiful—and honestly, there’s something so satisfying about turning something forgotten into something you use every day.
Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your version. I’d love to see what patterns and colors you choose!
Comments
Join the conversation
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Great idea- but that lampshade is definitely too small for that lamp
Frequently asked questions
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