Sizes and Proportions of Lampshades

Sizes

• Lampshades are available in a wide variety of sizes. Shade sizes are commonly labeled by measurements: top-by-height-by-bottom. This means the diameters of the top and the bottom, and the measurement of the slant top-to-bottom. In general, taller lamps will require a larger shade. Most table lamps use a shade with a bottom diameter of 16 inches or less, while a floor lamp may require a diameter of 16 inches or larger. You can determine the size you need by measuring the lamp's base from the bottom to just below the light socket. Your shade should have a bottom diameter equal to that measurement.

Drop

• The fourth measurement in lampshades is called the drop. The drop is the amount of space between the top of the shade and the fitter. Fitter wires are the means to hold a lampshade in place. There are several basic types of fitters. The spider, or harp fitter, is a common style. The fitter is located at the top of the shade. It typically has three legs and a center hole. It is mounted on the harp, a metal frame on the lamp that mounts below the light socket and extends above the bulb. The shade is secured by a finial. These shades average a one-half to one-inch drop.

  The uno fitter is built into the lampshade and is screwed onto the light socket. These fitters are typically used in ceiling fixtures or in floor lamps in which the bulb hangs downward. Shades with an uno fitter commonly have a drop measuring several inches. The exact amount will vary depending on the shade, since it sits below the bulb. The fitting should not be visible from a side view of the lamp.

Proportion

• You should choose a lampshade that complements the size and shape of the lamp base. In general, the shape of the shade should mirror the shape of the lamp base. Hence, a square-based lamp would use a square-shaped shade. This should only be used as a guide, as your personal taste trumps any so-called rules. The most important aspect to proportion is balancing the size of the shade with the size of the base. For instance, a large shade will overpower a small, ornate base.

Common Styles

• Lampshades are readily available in several standard shapes. Shades with sloping sides are known as floor, empire and coolie shades. The slope angle varies between these shades, with the coolie having the most gradual slant. Drum and cylinder shades have vertical sides. The drum shade tends to have a larger diameter, while cylinder shades are generally taller. Custom shades are available in an endless choice of shapes, fabrics and other ornamentation.