Single-sided 'The First Time' grey and yellow ovals Ankara lampshade
‘The First Time’ is a bespoke textile covered lampshade which forms a part of my single-sided range. Its handmade using an Ankara fabric, to add instant character to any interior.
Fabric Story This shade has a very personal connection for me as it features the first Ankara waxed cotton, printed fabric I purchased and represents the first shade I ever made. At the time, I was living in East Dulwich passing through Peckham and its myriad of Ankara fabric shops daily. I was attending a Women's Institute workshop on lampshade making and not being a seamstress needed to find some fabric so I popped into one of the shops. I was hooked from there on in - the colours and bold patterns just spoke to me. I also loved the class which was the prefect antidote to the work I was doing as an architect at the time. My fire was lit and this was the start of my lampshade journey. The design features a bold yellow, grey and black on a mottled white background. Because the pattern sits on the exterior, it remains visually striking whether the lamp is on or off and it forms one of a range of 20cm diameter shades which use fabrics with smaller repeats better suited to their smaller size.
Lighting Behaviour ‘The First Time’ responds beautifully to warm bulbs, enhancing the richness of the feature colours and the geometry gains a gentle depth as the white recesses behind the bold. retro pattern. It's ideal for studies and bedrooms for a bed-side lamp but is also available in a 30cm diameter for larger lamps or ceiling pendants.
Handmade Craft Each lampshade is handmade in London using traditional making techniques. The exterior pattern is aligned with precision, the interior lining is finished cleanly, and the structure is built to maintain its form over time. As part of a limited run, every shade carries the individuality of the maker’s hand.
Practical Details Available in multiple sizes and suitable for both pendant and table‑lamp fittings.
Sizes
Size 1: 20cm diameter, 18cm high
Size 2: 30cm diameter, 21cm tall
Size 3: 20cm diameter, 30cm tall
Photos Show Size 1, 20cm diameter, 18cm tall
Suitable for UK/EU lamp holders, with US adaptation available on request.
A bold, handmade lampshade that brings graphic energy, colour, and considered lighting design to any interior.