What type of paint should I use to paint an old white lampshade?

Question

I'm not sure if there is a special paint that can handle the heat from the lamp or not.

Answer 1

The best method is spray paint, this is something i have used to paint almost everything with...LOL Depending on the material and color of choice there are various options....
1. If your lamp puts out extreme heat latex will peel off.... You can take the bulb down in watts (40 watts) or go to acrylic paint which takes heat better...
2. If your lamp doesnt seem to get that hot than fusion paint from your local wal-mart or hardware store will work just fine and they have more color choices than you can shake a stick at...
3.On many fabrics you can stain the lighter colors real nice....add extra fabric and add those little dangales from the bottom with hot glue(sweet)....

So many options,
Stoner Customs

Answer 2

As a painter, when something like this comes up on a job I call the paint company's technical help line. Most major paint manufacturers have 800 numbers to help with questions like this. Generally speaking oil base paints will handle higher temperatures than latex paints. Most latex paints will withstand temperatures of 200-250 Fahrenheit. A lampshade shouldn't get that hot so you could use any paint you want. Just to be safe I would still make the phone call.