Lamp Shade Buying Guide

Want to know one of the best kept secrets in home décor?  Lamp shades can instantly change the look of a room – and for less than $100!  The key is finding the right shade that works in the lamps you already have.  The shape of the light shade plays a role in what the look ultimately becomes.  Not only that, but there are several new fitters that newer home lighting options offer.  We’ve put together a quick guide that will help you solve all of your lamp shade dilemmas.

Fitters

Fitters are the hardware that secures the lamp shade to the lamp.

Spider or Harp Fitters – These are secured from the top of the lamp shade.  They rest on your lamp’s harp and are secured with a finial (a decorative bolt that is visible over the lamp shade).

UNO Fitters – Your lamp determines whether or not you need an UNO fitter, since they’re built into the lamp itself.  The fitter rests on top of the lamp’s socket and then the bulb is screwed in.  The bulb keeps the fitter in place.

Clip Fitters – These are traditional spring fitters that clamp onto the bulb and are still found mostly on chandeliers.  It is attached to the shade.

Lamp Shade Descriptions

Bell shades – These are smaller at the top and curve out towards the bottom of the shade using round metal bands hidden by the fabric of the shade.

Empire shades – These follow the same design element as a bell shade with the exception of a straight line as the shade progresses downward instead of a curving feature.

Scallop shades – Again, these are similar to bell shades, but they have decorative scalloping along the bottom of the shade.

Drum shades – These shades are generally shaped like a drum with round bandings of the same size on the top and bottom of the shade.

As you can see, you’re afforded many options when selecting new lamp shades.  Get creative and allow your imagination to play a role in what will become a new and affordable look for any room in your home.