
DIY Rattan Lamp Shades for a Natural Look
Lighting is one of the most underrated elements in interior design—yet it can completely transform a room’s feel. When you’re crafting a relaxed, earthy space with bohemian flair, nothing complements the aesthetic quite like rattan. With its organic texture and natural finish, DIY rattan lighting adds warmth, depth, and a handcrafted feel that’s both grounding and uplifting.
And here’s the best part: you don’t need a huge budget or professional skills to make it work. In fact, creating your own boho lampshades is not only cost-effective but also a wonderful way to personalise your home. Whether you’re working with found baskets, upcycled materials, or thrifted frames, this guide will help you explore the creative world of natural boho decor through lighting.
Why Rattan is the Perfect Boho Lighting Material
Boho style thrives on natural, tactile elements that evoke a sense of calm and connection to the earth. Rattan fits the bill perfectly.
It’s Light Yet Textural
Rattan’s airy structure doesn’t overwhelm a room. It adds visual interest and softens modern or minimalist spaces, helping you strike that effortless boho balance.
It Offers Organic Warmth
Unlike synthetic materials, rattan emits a soft, golden glow when lit from within. It diffuses light in delicate patterns, making your space feel instantly cosier and more atmospheric.
It’s Sustainable and Budget-Friendly
Rattan is a fast-growing, renewable material, making it an eco-conscious choice. It also pops up frequently in second-hand shops or online marketplaces, making it ideal for thrifty decorators.
Styles of Rattan Lamp Shades That Suit Boho Interiors
If you’re picturing just one type of rattan pendant, think again. There are endless ways to incorporate rattan shades into your home, each offering its own personality.
1. Woven Basket Pendant Lights
One of the easiest and most budget-friendly ways to create a rattan light is by upcycling a basket into a pendant shade. Look for open weaves that allow light to filter through beautifully.
- Best for: Dining areas, bedrooms, or reading nooks
- Cost: £5–£15 depending on the basket
2. Cage-Style Lampshades
Rattan formed into dome or bell-shaped cages gives a clean, modern-boho vibe. These pair wonderfully with exposed bulbs or Edison-style fixtures.
- Best for: Kitchen islands, office corners, entryways
- Cost: £10–£25 when sourced second-hand
3. Rattan and Fabric Hybrids
A shade with a rattan frame and a light linen lining offers contrast and softness. These work beautifully in layered, texture-rich spaces.
- Best for: Living rooms and side tables
- Cost: £12–£30 when DIYed or upcycled
If you’re already layering tactile elements in your room, be sure to read layering boho textures with budget accessories for more ideas on achieving balance.
Where to Source Affordable Rattan Pieces
You don’t need to shop designer brands to get your hands on rattan. In fact, the more character your piece has, the better.
Best Places to Shop:
- Charity shops or thrift stores: Look for woven baskets, old lampshades with sturdy frames, or plant holders
- Car boot sales & vintage markets: Great for one-of-a-kind shapes
- Online marketplaces (eBay, Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree): Use search terms like “woven basket” or “boho lamp frame”
- Craft shops: For basic cane or seagrass to build from scratch
Tip: Avoid any items with strong musty smells or broken frames that can’t be secured.
Creative Ideas for Hanging and Styling Rattan Lights
Once you’ve found or made your rattan shade, it’s time to think about how and where to use it.
Hang Low Over a Table or Reading Chair
Place a rattan pendant light lower than eye level to create intimacy. This invites warmth and focus without being overpowering.
Use in a Cluster or Trio
Grouping rattan lights in varied shapes or sizes adds interest and gives off that curated, collected-over-time feel.
Mix with Macramé or Beads
Want to take it up a notch? Pair your lamp shade with handmade cords or trims. For inspiration, explore using affordable beads, macrame & tassels in decor.
Colour and Finish Considerations
Although rattan is typically left in its natural state, there’s room to experiment.
Keep It Raw and Earthy
Natural rattan has slight variations in tone that make each piece feel unique. Leave it unpainted for a truly rustic effect.
Whitewashed or Distressed
For a more coastal or vintage look, consider a light whitewash or diluted paint finish. This softens the material while preserving texture.
Painted for Bold Impact
Feeling brave? Spray-paint rattan in terracotta, sage, or matte black for a dramatic boho statement piece.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a DIY project needs a thoughtful approach. Here are a few things to watch for:
Overweight Frames
Make sure your basket or shade isn’t too heavy for the pendant kit or hook you’re using. Test before final installation.
Closed Weaves That Block Light
Some beautiful baskets don’t let enough light through. Always test with a bulb to ensure the right diffusion.
Fire Safety Oversights
Use LED bulbs that stay cool, especially if your rattan is close to the light source. Avoid halogen bulbs or any high-heat option.
Maintenance and Longevity
Rattan is surprisingly resilient but does need a bit of TLC.
Keep It Dust-Free
Use a soft cloth, brush, or vacuum with a nozzle attachment to gently clean dust from your lampshade every few weeks.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Too much sun can dry out and fade rattan over time. To soften strong exposure, place shades away from windows or use curtains.
Retighten or Repair Weaves
Loose strands can be tucked back in or glued with wood-safe adhesive to prevent long-term damage.
Conclusion: Let Your Light Tell a Story
Creating your own DIY rattan lighting isn’t just a home decor project—it’s a form of creative expression. Each curve, strand, and glow adds to the layered richness of your space. Whether you’re revamping a corner or designing an entire room, a handmade rattan lamp shade introduces a natural warmth that feels both personal and timeless.
And perhaps the best part? You made it. With your hands, your eye, your style. That’s what natural boho decor is all about: building a space that reflects not perfection, but personality.
So go ahead—find that basket, wrap that bulb, and let your room glow with meaning.