Try quilling to create a fresh spring look for a lampshade

Revamping a plain lampshade couldn't be easier than this. These pretty three dimensional flowers are simple to make using an old technique called quilling.

The bright and pretty flowers could be made in colours to coordinate with other fabrics and furnishings and can be used to decorate almost any firm flat surface. Ideal for kids to do.

You'll need:

Paper lampshade (from light shops)
Small sharp embroidery scissors
Packet of 9mm and 3mm coloured quilling papers
PVA glue Slotted quilling tool
Green cardboard
Tracing paper
Clean cloth

Here's how

Step 1 Using sharp embroidery scissors finely fringe one side of a 20cm length of 9mm quilling paper, making 6mm long snips.

Step 2
Take a 6cm length of different coloured 3mm paper and glue one end to the fringed piece. Slip the other end of the 3mm paper into the slotted tool.

Step 3
Roll the joined strip, including the fringed paper, quite firmly around the tool and glue the base of the roll while it is still on the tool.

Step 4
When dry, remove it from the tool and tease out the fringing. Make about 30 flowers using different colour combinations.

Step 5
Trace the templates (right) for the stems and leaves onto green card and cut out with small scissors. Trace and cut about 12 in various sizes.

Step 6
Use PVA to glue stems and flowers around the shade. Use a clean dry cloth to press them firmly into position. Wipe away any excess glue immediately.