How to make a ceiling light shade

Start with a lightweight woven basket that's large enough to sit around your existing pendant fitting. An open-weave design allows plenty of light to filter through while helping maintain airflow around the fitting.

Before purchasing, check that the basket is wider and deeper than the light fitting, with enough room to remain clear of the bulb and the fitting. Check any clearance or material requirements supplied by the light and basket manufacturers.

Avoid baskets with heavy steel frames, rigid metal bases or loose, highly flammable decorations. These can be difficult to modify and may be unsuitable for support with removable adhesive hooks.

Turn off the light and let the bulb cool completely before working near the pendant.

Measure the diameter of the pendant fitting where the basket opening will sit. Then measure the fitting’s height and compare it with the basket’s depth.

Mark the centre of the basket base and draw a circle slightly smaller than the required opening. It’s easier to enlarge the opening gradually than to fix one that’s too large. Taking accurate measurements now will help the basket sit neatly, stay centred and achieve a clean, finished look.

Do not remove, loosen or adjust any part of the electrical fitting while measuring.

Remove the basket from the work area before cutting it. Place it on a stable surface and wear safety glasses and protective gloves.

Using a craft knife or strong scissors, carefully cut along the marked line. Always direct the blade away from your hands and body.

If the basket contains wire reinforcement, use wire cutters to trim it neatly. Start with a smaller opening and gradually enlarge it, checking the fit as you go. Stop if cutting leaves sharp wire, loose sections or an unstable opening that can’t be secured safely.

Make sure the light is off and the bulb is cool. Set up the step ladder on a firm, level surface, follow its safety instructions and keep your body centred between the ladder’s sides.

Carefully slide the basket around the pendant fitting without pulling, twisting or placing weight on the cable or lamp holder. Check that the hanging light shade is centred and level.

The basket must not touch the bulb or other parts that may become hot, and it must not restrict ventilation around the fitting. If you can’t confirm a safe fit, don’t install the basket.

Make any final adjustments to the opening with the basket removed from the light.

First, confirm that the ceiling surface is suitable for removable adhesive hooks. Check the basket’s weight against the hooks’ stated load limit and follow the manufacturer’s preparation, spacing and installation instructions.

Hold the basket in its final position and lightly mark where the rim meets the ceiling.Remove the basket, then position the hooks evenly around the fitting so they can support the rim without contacting or placing pressure on any electrical component.

Allow the adhesive to set for the full time stated by the manufacturer. Once it’s ready, carefully position the basket and make sure the rim is supported evenly and the shade sits level.

Before switching the light on, check again that the basket is secure and clear of the bulb and fitting. Monitor it when first used. Switch the light off and remove the shade if the basket becomes hot, discoloured, unstable or damaged.

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Can I attach the basket directly to the pendant fitting?

No. The basket must not hang from, clamp onto or place weight on the cable, lamp holder or any other electrical component. The method in this guide supports the basket rim separately with suitable adhesive hooks. If the project requires you to change or loosen the electrical fitting, don’t proceed.

How much space should I leave between the basket and the bulb?

The basket must not touch the bulb or other parts that may become hot, and it must not restrict ventilation. Clearance requirements can vary between products, so check the instructions supplied with the light fitting, bulb and basket rather than relying on a general measurement. If you can’t confirm that the setup is suitable, choose another basket or leave the fitting unchanged.

Can I use removable adhesive hooks on any ceiling?

No. Adhesive hooks aren’t suitable for every surface, finish or environment. Check the hook manufacturer’s instructions for compatible surfaces, preparation, load limits and setting time. Textured, dusty, damp, damaged or poorly bonded painted surfaces may not provide a reliable base. Removing an adhesive product may also affect some finishes.

What type of bulb can I use with a woven basket light shade?

Only use a bulb that’s suitable for the existing light fitting and the proposed shade arrangement. Follow the fitting and bulb manufacturers’ instructions, including any limits relating to enclosed shades, ventilation or heat. Remove the basket shade if it becomes hot, discoloured or damaged during use.

What should I do if the basket doesn’t sit level?

Remove the basket while the light is off and cool, then check that the opening is centred and the supporting hooks are positioned evenly. Don’t adjust the basket while the light is switched on. If the rim can’t be supported securely and evenly, don’t use the basket as a ceiling light shade.