How do I dye old lamp shades?

Question

The lamps are about 50 yrs old and very rare. Over the years they have yellowed and stained. I'd like to make them white or ivory without damaging them.

Answer 1

I would use fabric spray paint. Rustuleum makes it.

Answer 2

You say they are stained. Chances after all these years, you aren't going to be able to remove them. Why don't you have them recovered in the color you want. You could also just buy new shades. If you think this will bring down the value of the lamps, well, anything you do to the shades that does not bring them back to the original color and condition, is going to bring down the value. It is the lamp, not the shade, that holds the real value .

Answer 3

It really depends upon the type of fabric and the condition. For yellowing you could try to dip them in a solution of Oxyclean and water, this will remove the yellowing and stains and should return it to the original white, you would want to test an inconspicious area first. Dyeing would also need to be done by hand. You may want to consult a launder or dry cleaner that does dyeing for advice or have them do it.

Answer 4

i wouldn't suggest it , i re covered mine w/ a really long torn material strip, wrapping it around and around finishing it off at the
end then i went back w/ smaller torn material strips and tied small
knots all over in a varied patterns w/ tabs sticking out
this look can be country or contemporary

Answer 5

well do u just wanna dye it or repaint it..??? wat are these lamps made up of???? is it metal or wat??????