FAQ
WHAT SIZE SHADE DO I NEED FOR MY LAMP?
Start by measuring your lamps height and width, then use these guidelines to choose the correct size:
HEIGHT
Your shade should be about twice the width of your lamp’s base. Proportion is key - if the shade is too high, it will appear top heavy – if it's too short, your lamp will look off-balance.
WIDTH
Your shade should be about two-thirds the height of your lamp’s base. The shade should hide almost all of the metal neck of the lamp, and you never want the bottom of your ‘saddle’ (the U-shaped metal piece that holds a lampshade above the bulb and socket of a lamp) to show.
WHAT DO THE MEASUREMENTS LISTED FOR EACH PRODUCT MEAN?
When you look at size options on a product page, you’ll see measurements listed like this: 6 x 10 x 7ins (for example).
The first number is the diameter of the top of the shade.
The second number is the diameter of the bottom of the shade.
The third number is the slant of the shade.
We always refer to shades by their bottom diameter, listed second in measurements. For example, a 16" shade is a shade with a bottom diameter of 16." The top and the side/slant of a shade can be almost any dimension within reason. The lamp size, in particular the widest diameter of the lamp base, will often dictate the bottom diameter of the shade required. Our lampshade filter lists shades by bottom diameter, so you may easily filter to only shades within your required measurements.
HOW DO I KNOW WHICH KIND OF 'FITTER' I NEED FOR MY LAMP?
A lampshade 'fitter' is the hardware that attaches a lampshade to the lamp. There are many different types of fitters. It's important to match the shade fitter so the lampshade will fit on your lamp. If you're not sure which fitter is right for your lamp and shade, please feel free to email us with with lamp pictures and dimensions at info@theshadeshop.com – we'll help you find the perfect fit.
DO YOU OFFER LAMPSHADE FABRIC SAMPLES?
Yes, we have samples of our Fermoie and Ian Sanderson lampshade fabrics available to share before purchasing.
I ORDERED THE CORRECT SIZE, BUT MY LAMPSHADE STILL DOESN'T LOOK RIGHT.
Check the lampshade's harp size. If your harp is too short or too tall, the shade will be positioned in the wrong place. Please feel free to email us with lamp pictures and dimensions at info@theshadeshop.com – we'll help you find the perfect fit.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE FOR MY SHADES TO ARRIVE?
We pride ourselves on having the largest in-stock inventory of lampshades in the US. However, if you’ve ordered a Fermoie or Ian Sanderson lampshade that is not currently in stock, it will be labeled as "pre order." Pre-order items typically take about five weeks to arrive.
I AM A DESIGNER AND WOULD LIKE TO BORROW YOUR LAMPSHADES FOR A PHOTO SHOOT.
We’re happy to loan out shades on a case-by-case basis, so please don't hesitate to reach out to us.
I AM A DESIGNER AND WOULD LIKE TO BORROW YOUR LAMPSHADES FOR A SHOWHOUSE.
We’d be happy to collaborate on a project with you, and our return policy is very generous for showhouses.
CAN I MAKE AN IN-PERSON APPOINTMENT AT YOUR CHARLOTTESVILLE STORE?
Yes! We recommend it. Scheduling an appointment will help us ensure that you’ll receive the best service and advice possible. Just give us a call to book time in store – we’d love to see you.