A good lampshade not only accentuates and enhances a table lamp but it also provides the proper light needed for reading or working. A variety of lampshades are available and they are typically made of fabric or glass in many different styles, shapes and colors. The shape of the base is a key consideration in selecting a suitable lampshade, and different bases call for different types of shade shapes.
A common type of glass lamp shade is a cylinder-shaped or bell-shaped shade. This is an elegant style that complements many types of lamp bases, particularly those with more decorative features or details in the base. These lamp shades can be clear, tinted or bubbled glass in a wide range of colors. Glass shades provide a warm glow and can complement both traditional and contemporary decor.
Other types of glass shades are art glass, which is a special kind of toughened, hand-crafted and colored glass that can be molded into many shapes to form unique, artistic designs. These shades can also be molded to resemble flowers or animals or they may use traditional shade shapes with unusual edge designs. Art glass can be a striking addition to any room and it often looks best when paired with a similarly designed base. Miilighting.
Fabric shades can be a great way to add a splash of color or to match the shade to the fabric on other furniture in the room. Alternatively, silk or twill fabric shades can have a more subtle look that will pair well with either traditional or modern decor. Silk shades are also durable and easy to clean, which makes them a smart choice when it comes to child-friendly lamps.
The size of a lamp shade is important, as the wrong size can make a lamp look top-heavy or lanky. The best rule of thumb is to buy a shade that is 2 to 3 inches shorter than the height of the base. This will ensure that the bottom of the lampshade is at the right height to hide the harp, spindle and hardware parts of the lamp when it’s in use.
If the base of a lamp is highly detailed, consider choosing a shade that has a simpler appearance in order to maintain a sense of proportion. A taller shade on a shorter lamp base will make the overall fixture look unbalanced.
For a contemporary or even minimalist feel, consider purchasing a clip-on shade instead of one with a harp. These types of shades attach directly to the light bulb and they are easy to clean and replace. They can also be used with some older chandelier lamps that do not require a harp since they simply clip onto the top of the light bulb. This type of shade is not as secure as a fully-attached lamp shade, but it is an excellent option when space is limited or when you want a quick and simple replacement for a worn or outdated shade.
