Lamp Makeover using Highlighter Markers
Yes, you read the title correctly. I used highlighter markers to makeover a lampshade. Who knew?
Yesterday I was at Home Hardware and the guy ahead of me was having trouble with his debit card. While I waited I was browsing the stuff for sale by the cashier and saw these lovely bright highlighters. I grabbed a pack for $1, not knowing what I was going to use them for. They’re always handy to have.
Here’s what my $1 thrift store lamp looked like when I bought it.
Before I used the highlighters on my good shade I did a trial run on a used lampshade that’s seen better days and it worked great. But it does take patience and a steady hand.
To colour the fabric with the highlighters I used short strokes as I filled in, going back over it as I went along until I got an opaque look that I was happy with. I moved slowly so I wouldn’t have any accidents.
First I used the yellow highlighter to colour all the trim. I let it sit for about 30 minutes to make sure it was dry. Because there are six sections to this lampshade I decided to alternate the sections with the pink and green highlighters. I carefully outlined each section first and then slowly filled it in.
One section should be completely done at a time. You can’t walk away from a section when it’s only half done and then finish it later because you’ll have lap lines just like when painting.
I only had one of each colour so after I did a pink section I let that highlighter sit while I did a green one, and vice versa until I was done. This way the highlighters seemed to replenish themselves rather than dry out. Next time I do this I’ll make sure I have two of each colour on hand.
Here’s my finished lamp with the lamp base spray paint with a lovely glossy green. I love the way it turned out. It’s so cheerful!
What do you think? Have you ever coloured fabric with highlighters?
Thank you for sharing your your cute makeover project at Potpourri Friday!
Thanks for hosting the party Honey!
Now, that is something new…LOVE it. Those colors and bright and happy!
Thanks Holly!
How creative! I don't need to show my kids this post because they'll be going crazy with the highlighters on every lamp in sight. They love those neon colors so much. Thanks for linking up at Doodles & Stitches!
Thanks Nicole! I can see how that might be a problem. lol.
Highlighters…!!???!! Who would have thought! What a terrific idea…
Thanks! I was surprised myself at how well it worked. Thanks for visiting!
OMG I love that idea. I would have never thought of that. Very very cute. I'm your newest follower. Come check out my blog when you have a second at http://sister-number-5.blogspot.com
Thanks Geri! I'm so happy to have you along. Thanks so much for following.