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Choosing the correct size lamp shade shouldn't be difficult. Many times we go through the hassle of ordering. It is hard to tell if a shade will look right when we see it on our lamp.
One example would be if you want to buy a lamp shade online for a lamp you have at home. How do you go about getting the correct size without seeking the lamp and shade together? This causes headaches for a lot of people trying to buy a shade sight unseen.
We run into this situation all the time because we make rawhide lamp shades and it seems like we are always trying to help someone find the right shade for a lamp they have.
We came up with a simple technique to help our clients visualize a shade on their lamp before they order. This simple technique will work for you too, and you will be able to make the right shade choice the first time.
1. Consider Available Lamp Shades
You can order custom shades but you may be able to find a shade size in stock that will work. Consult your lampshade source for the measurements of a shade that you think might be the one you want.
2. Make A Visual Aid
Make a simple two-dimensional "flat" pattern the size of the shade out of paper or cardboard. For example, use the lower edge of the cardboard for the base line. Measure up the height of the shade and draw a horizontal line parallel to the base line which will represent the top edge of the shade.
Now draw a vertical line straight up and down from base line or to the top edge line. If you imagine the base line, vertical line and top edge line as the capital letter "I" you are on the right track.
Then, mark the top and bottom dimensions of the shade on your pattern so that you get the correct slant for the edge of the shade. From the center line measure and mark the top diameter of the shade.
If the top diameter is 5" then measure to the left and right of the center line along the top edge line 2.5" on both sides and make a mark. Those points are the top corners of your pattern. Repeat along the baseline using the shade"s bottom diameter. If it seems confusing, it's really not, but very simple and quick.
3. Evaluate The Look
If you will cut out the pattern and have someone hold it in place over the lamp, you will be able to step back and take a look. Even though it is flat, you will be able to get a feel for how the shade will look on your lamp.
You will know right away if it is right or if it needs to be taller or wider etc. Then armed with this view of your lamp with the shade you can order with confidence.
This is a quick and easy way to make sure that you are on the right track in your shade size selection. This simple idea has helped our clients save a lot of aggravation and money over the years when buying rawhide lamp shades online and we hope it answers some of your questions about how to choose the correct lamp shade too.
