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Meet the Maker - Lola's Lampshades

The idea for Lola’s Lampshades first came to Aoife when she struggled to find the perfect lampshade to match a vibrant pair of curtains. What began as a simple search soon sparked a creative journey she never expected. After becoming paralysed, lampshade making grew from an idea into a meaningful creative outlet - and ultimately into her thriving business.


In today’s Meet the Maker, we dive into the success of Lola’s Lampshades, explore Aoife’s inspiring personal story, and discover the kinds of shades she most loves to create.


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Hi there!

 

How are you today and whats on your work bench.

I’m good, thank you. Business has been busy over the past few weeks, which is great. Today I’ve got a new selection of William Morris fabrics to work with, and I’m looking forward to seeing how the shades turn out once they’re finished.


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How do you select the fabrics for your lampshades?

I work exclusively with high-quality cotton and linen fabrics. I’m particularly drawn to bold, colourful designs that make a statement, but I also select prints with subtle patterns and interesting details to suit a variety of interior styles and preferences.

 

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Which of your handmade lampshades do you think depicts your interior style?

I think the Palette Stacks Multi shade best represents my style. I love its bold colours and modern shapes — it perfectly captures the balance of vibrancy and contemporary design that I’m drawn to.

 

When and why did you start making lampshades?

The idea came to me ten years ago when I was trying to find a pink lampshade to co ordinate with my beautiful new curtains. 


I thought to myself there is definitely an opening here. Roll on three months later, I was left paralysed from my chest down after becoming ill with a neurologist immune condition called

Transverse Myelitis. It was 12 months before I was back in my home after rehabilitation and complete renovation of my home for the wheelchair. I was unable to return to my job as a Financial Advisor. I had been working full time since I was 21 so to have no work, the days were very long and often I wouldn’t get out of bed. I knew I needed to do something both for my wellbeing and financially, so I purchased a few lampshade kits and started practicing making shades. The rest they say is history :-) 

 

What’s your favourite part of the lampshade making process?

For me, it’s about choosing the fabrics I love most and then seeing my vision come to life in each finished piece. There’s something incredibly rewarding about watching how a design evolves from a simple idea into a unique, handcrafted lampshade that transforms a space.

 

In your online shop what’s your most popular selling shade?

It is currently the Silver Birch Orchid shade, the colours are really beautiful in the print and its proven very popular with my customers.


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What’s the mix of shades you make to sell online versus lampshade commissions, as part of your business?

I have 20cm, 30cm and 40cm drum shades available on the website. Commissions tend to be slightly taller or narrower shades. I keep it to drum shades only for simplicity purposes, managing fabrics and packaging etc. 


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What advice would you offer new lampshade makers in business, based on your own experience?

At the beginning I attended a lot of markets - it is hard work but it is a great way of getting the word out there and your product being seen. It can be disheartening if you don’t get many sales, but it is worth being seen.

 

Can you tell us how Lola’s Lampshades has developed since you started out?

Initially when I launched the website, there were ten different lampshades available. Now I have 350+! When I started I was working from my kitchen table and all my lampshade materials were stored in my living room! 


Now I have a purpose built studio which is an absolute dream to work in, I probably spend more time in it than I need to.


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What adjustments have you needed to make to your lifestyle to accommodate running a successful business?

Some weeks, it could be a 7 day working week, but it may only be a couple of hours one day and eight another. Having my own business suits me best, as I can pick and choose my hours as I often have medical appointments, so may need to work at the weekend to catch up. Whereas if I was still in the banking industry, I wouldn’t have that leeway. 

 

What does a typical day look like at Lola’s Lampshades?

I like to be in my studio bright and early, coffee in hand of course. I start by replying to any queries that may have come in overnight. The previous day’s work will be packaged up and ready for when my lovely postman calls to collect. I then plan what shades to make that day. I like to make a few every day, rather than a lot on a couple of days. I usually finish up around 4pm in the studio. I post most days on social media so plan my post later in the evening as that is time I have to connect with my customers and followers. 

 

When are you at your most productive?

First thing in the morning, without a doubt. In the winter months, I like being in my studio before it’s fully light and listening to the animals around our home. It’s a quiet, focused time that helps me get started on the day and my creative work.

 

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And your favourite sustenance when you’re working?

It has to be a hot cup of coffee and a sweet treat like some chocolate. It’s my guilty pleasure.

 

On a personal note, we noticed you were a finalist of the Woman’s Way and Beko Mum of the Year Awards. How did it feel to be nominated?

It was such an honour to be nominated alongside so many inspiring women. At first, I felt a bit of imposter syndrome, but that quickly turned into pride and gratitude for being recognised for something I’m so passionate about.


Where would you like to be in 10 years time?

Lola’s Lampshades is 8 years old this year. I can’t believe I am 8 years in, it has just flown. I am so happy and proud where I am right now. Working from my studio at my home works so well for me with my disability.


I’d like to be still working away in my studio but possibly introducing a range of decorative interior items to complement the shades.


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What have you learned that’s been invaluable to your creative process?

I’ve learned that mistakes are often the greatest teachers. While they can sometimes be costly, each one provides valuable insight that shapes both my creative process and my approach to life. Learning from them has been essential to growth and improvement

 


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Browse Aoife's range of striking patterned and plain lampshades at www.lolaslampshades.ie and give her a friendly follow on Instagram and Facebook.






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