Lamp Shades for Table & Floor Lamps

A new shade changes a lamp more than a new lamp changes a room. It is also the cheapest way to bring a dated base back to life.

Getting the size right

Three measurements decide whether a shade fits:

Height — about two thirds the height of the lamp base.
Bottom width — roughly twice the width of the base at its widest point, and wide enough to hide the socket and harp completely.
Top width — narrower than the bottom on most shapes; equal on a drum.

The quick check: from any normal viewing angle, you should not be able to see the bulb or the hardware. If you can, the shade is too small.

Fitting	How it attaches
Spider	Sits on a harp, held by a finial. The most common.
Clip-on	Clips straight onto the bulb. Small shades and chandeliers.
Uno	Threads onto the socket itself. No harp needed.
Euro / reflector bowl	Held by a ring under the socket.

Check which fitting your lamp uses before you order. A spider shade will not attach to an uno lamp, whatever the size says.

White or ivory linen — the most light through, warm and even. The safe default.
Black or dark fabric — throws light up and down in two beams rather than all round. Dramatic, less practical for reading.
Paper or rice paper — very soft and diffused, lower output.
Metal — directional only, all light down. Task lighting.

A dark shade with a white lining is the best of both — it looks rich from outside and still puts usable light on the page.