Measuring and cutting the lining fabric

Measuring and Cutting the Lining Fabric

With our calculations done, it's time to translate these onto your lining fabric. Follow these instructions for both of the projects we'll be doing together.

What You Will Need

• Lining fabric
• Lampshade frame
• Tape measure
• Large scissors
• Pencil
• Notebook
• Heavy duty clips
• Metal ruler
• Iron or steamer depending on fabric

Preparing Your Lining Fabric

Step 1

You will have worked out the width of fabric you require, and now you can work out the length. Simply measure the height of your lampshade frame and add on a generous seam allowance; I normally round up by 5 - 7 cm. Note this measurement down in your notebook.

Step 2

Lay your fabric out on a flat surface, and clamp in place.

Step 3

Depending on the fabric, either iron or steam to remove any creases and wrinkles.

Step 4

Starting at the right hand side and referring to your measurements, use a ruler and pencil to mark the positioning of the first spoke on the bottom edge of your fabric - this should be the distance between each spoke plus 2 cm for seam allowance.

Step 5

Move along the bottom edge of the fabric marking the distance between each spoke; you don't need to add seam allowance for these.

Step 6

Once you reach the measurement for the last spoke, add 2 cm seam allowance to this.

Step 7

Use a tape measure to check the entire length - it should equal the width between spokes x amount of spokes + 4 cm for seam allowance in total.

Step 8

Next, mark the measurement you have for the height of your lampshade onto the fabric by using a ruler to draw a straight line up from the bottom edge at either end.

Step 9

From the top point of your height measurement, work along the width of your fabric again to repeat the same marks for the spokes along what will be the top edge of the fabric.

Step 10

Using a ruler, draw a straight line that joins up each of these spoke measurements to create the top edge of your fabric.

Step 11

Take a large pair of scissors and cut your fabric out, cutting carefully along the top line and then down the side.

Step 12

Neatly fold your measured and cut piece of lining fabric, and place to one side for now.