1. The size of the shade should not overpower the lamp base, nor should it be so small that it looks perched! And make sure that, at eye level, it covers not only the bulb but the socket as well. (insert photos 034, 031) Take into consideration where the lamp will go--a low table or a high dresser, for example, will effect your eye level. You don't want to be looking directly at the bulb!
 
2. Shades are sized with three measurements--the widths across the top and bottom and the slope on the side, in inches.  For example, a 5x12x8 shade is 5 inches across the top, 12 inches across the bottom and 8 inches on the side. (insert photo 013)

3. There are many different shapes of shades, the most common being round. It can be sloped, cylinder, short, long, etc., depending on the relation of the three measurements-- A small top and a large bottom will give the shade a very sloped shape. If the top and bottom sizes are very close in size, it will be cylindrical. (insert photo 5712, 5691) As well as round, there are other geometric shapes of shades also--squares, rectangles, triangles, etc.
 
4. Some styles are hardbacks formed with only top and bottom rings connected with hard paper or cloth covered plastic. (insert photo 5837) Other styles have wire frames with spokes connecting the top and bottom. Those are usually covered with a cloth lining inside and a more decorative fabric outside. (insert photo 5676, 5675)

5. There are different fittings for shades. For example, a shade can clip directly onto a bulb-- usually, but not limited to, smaller lamps. (insert photo 5683) A common fitting for larger shades is a washer top--this has a small hole in the centre, which sits onto the harp of the lamp and is secured with a finial. (insert photo 5772) (There are also many styles of finials--from plain "hats" to heavy decorative ones.) Some imported lamps have shades with  drop fitters that sit directly on the tops of the sockets.  An older bridge style has a threaded fitter that screws onto the socket and allows the light to shine down. There is also the chimney top that allows the shade to fit onto a glass chimney. These are just a few examples.  The washer top that sits on a harp is the most common one for the table lamp.
 
6. If there is a harp on the lamp-- the apparatus that the shade sits on-- it can be changed. A cradle fits under the socket and the harp fastens into it. Harps come in many sizes, from four to fifteen inches, at half inch intervals. If you find a shade you like but it sits too high or too low on your lamp, change the harp. Some people think that it is a permanent part of the lamp, but it's not! You could even remove the harp and put a clip top shade on it if you like -- lamps are more adaptable than you might think!

7. Colour is also an important consideration. Plain whites and off-whites are the most common seen in department stores and lighting showrooms. This is because they give good light, will also blend with most decors, and of course, are economical to make! Quite boring, though! You do not have to be limited to them! Be a little more daring or individual and look for shades with some colour or decorative design. You can even have them made. We at Village Shade Works specialize in reasonably priced custom made shades and free consultation.

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