Lampshade Birdcage $1

 

I had a couple of old lampshades from my house I used for these, but I also bought some at D.I. for $1/piece. You just want to get a lampshade that has the metal rib cage. They are harder to find than you might suppose.

Slash through the shade fabric and remove what comes off easily. Soak the lampshades in hot soapy water. The glue will loosen up and you can rip the remaining fabric off with pliers. Once dry, pick any leftover glue off. I use my fingernails, but needlenose pliers would probably be better. Or a razor blade. I like the patina of the metal shades. If the shades are white I cover them with washi tape.

Make birds with fabric scraps. I got the pattern for my bird from this book. Sew little embellishments on your birds. I collect all sorts of trinkets, so I sewed little bits to my birds because I think it makes them interesting. RE named this bird "From Paris With Love."

 

 

 

Decorate your cage with anything. I have wired buttons and sewing notions on one, crystals and beads to another, and left some blank. You could do any theme you want. I used stamped clothespins from French General to make a perch in one of my cages. Really, the possibilities are endless, and I decorate my cage with the recipient in mind (their style, their colors, etc).

Attach the birds to the cage with fishing line and crimp beads. Yes, more fishing line and crimp beads. I told you I have an endless supply.

Hang the cage however you wish. I have done clear fishing line, braided embroidery floss, ribbon remnants, and jute. Just use what you have. Don't go buy something!

If you don't have a lampshade, use other clever objects. I made this one out of an antique sewing hoop for my sister Suz because she sews custom baby bedding for a living.