This TikToker Transformed a Boring Lamp into the Cutest Bedroom Decor (I Need to Try This!)

Emma Zawacki
Emma Zawacki
Emma is originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, but moved to Missouri to pursue her dreams of writing. She studies journalism with an emphasis in reporting and writing at the Missouri School of Journalism. Outside of school, she practices floral arranging, crochets blankets and…read more
published Jul 31, 2025
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Cozy bedroom with a white bedspread, blue floral pillows, a stuffed lamb, a gold lamp, and a mirror.
Credit: Kate Stocksen

When the rest of your dorm room is decorated to the nines, a boring lampshade can stick out like a sore thumb. 

Luckily, there’s an easy way to upgrade the neutral, white shade that comes with most light fixtures. 

With just a few supplies, this new TikTok video by @discoragelove shows how you can turn a lackluster shade into a one-of-a-kind collage that matches the personality infused throughout the rest of your room. 

How to Make a Lampshade Collage

The first step of this DIY is to collect the images you want to use. Grab a stack of magazines and start ripping out photos that match the color palette you want or the vibe you are aspiring for. You could also go full scrapbooker and use patterned paper from a craft store, wrapping paper, or cute napkins. The sky is the limit when it comes to your creativity with this craft. 

Once you’ve gathered your art, paint a layer of Mod Podge on your lampshade and stick your images on top to create your base, covering the entire space. (Mod Podge is frequently used on lampshades, but it’s always smart to make sure you’re using an LED bulb to prevent your lamp from generating excess heat.)  

Then add another coat of Mod Podge on top of all your images to seal them in and keep the corners from peeling. The Mod Podge could take up to an hour to feel dry to the touch, but for best results, you may want to wait up to 72 hours before adding additional layers. In the video, the creator uses a hair dryer to speed up the process. 

Now, if you wish, you can add a second layer using more photos or even stickers. 

Do one final layer of Mod Podge over your entire collage, and your custom lampshade is complete. Not ready to tackle this type of project? This easy hack will let you swap out your lampshade in 10 seconds or less. 

This post was a collaboration between Dorm Therapy and Apartment Therapy and originally appeared on Apartment Therapy. See it there: Use This Clever Decor Hack to Totally Customize a Plain Bedroom Staple (So Gorgeous!)

Emma Zawacki

Contributor

Emma is originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan, but moved to Missouri to pursue her dreams of writing. She studies journalism with an emphasis in reporting and writing at the Missouri School of Journalism. Outside of school, she practices floral arranging, crochets blankets and takes care of her plants.

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SchoolUniversity of Missouri '26
MajorJournalism with an emphasis in reporting and writing
FavesCrocheting, sitcoms, tulips, and iced raspberry lattes
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