How To Choose the Right Size Lamp Shade

Posted by Fisher Light on June 29th, 2019

Lamp not only can give light but also can be used as a sculptural object. How to choose lamp shade size?

If your lamp has a single bulb socket, measure the distance from the base of lamp to the stem, the part of the lamp that sits immediately below the socket. If your lamp has a cluster of bulb sockets, measure the distance between the base of the lamp and the socket cluster.

Measure and record the gap between the bulb and the wall and furniture.

Please pay attention to the style of the light harp. The lampshade must be compatible with the harp. Harp is the wire section which is used to support the shade.

Determine the wattage bulbs required for the lamp. Give 150-watt bulbs 4 inches of clearance and 40- and 60-watt bulbs 2 inches of clearance.

Draw the shape of the lamp base. The shade should have a similar shape.

When purchasing a shade, please bring your measurements, notes and sketch. Choose a selection of shades which are similar or complementary to the shape of the lamp and are compatible with the harp of the lamp.

Measure the bottom diameter of the shadow. Choose the shade which has a bottom diameter that’s within 2 inches of the height of the lamp base.

Measure the distance between the base and top edges by laying the ruler along the slope of the shade. Make sure that the measurement should be within 1/2 inch of the height of the lamp’s stem.

Choose a lamp that fits the space where you will use it.

Suggestions

• If you have simple bases, you can choose fancy shades. If you have ornate bases, you can choose simple shades.
• The bulb should be hidden by the shade without obstructing the base.
• Consider tried-and-true combinations. For instance, for an Oriental-style lamp or a coolie shade, you can choose a pagoda shade with a small opening on top and a wide one at the bottom, and a narrow lamp base.