I’m Joanna, the maker and teacher behind the Lampshade School, which I started in 2017. I discovered my passion for restoring lampshades when my children were tiny. The craft was almost forgotten back then, so I took it upon myself to work out how, by trial, observation and research. My training as an upholsterer (which I still am), my education in Fine Art, and my experience as a journalist were invaluable. I became a lampshade nerd (guru even?), which I am still proud to be with 100 watt passion.

   Today I am still exploring creative lampshade making possibilities. Sometimes the fabric leads the creative journey, sometimes it is the frame. The essence is always to find the ideal combination of technique, shape, and fabric quality. I explore how it works, and how I will pass these most wonderful skills to other passionate lampshade makers. 

   With the Lampshade School I share my skills with real live classes in the workroom; learning at home kits, and through my book. I also sell a range of tried and tested essential workbox items and frames… the ones I use myself.