Wall Light Shades & Chandelier Shades

Small lamp shades are perfect for use as wall light shades and chandelier shades. Available in a variety of sizes, usually between four and six-inches diameter. Do not underestimate the effect of using shades for chandeliers or wall lights as they completely transform a room for little outlay.

As always, when selecting a shade colour you need to decide if you want to contrast or complement the existing colour scheme. Bold shades will make the fitting stand out whilst more neutral colours will fit with almost any colour scheme.

They are particularly useful in diffusing harsh light and are very effective when used on large or very bright fittings with bare lamps. They create a wonderful effect by funnelling the light up and down through the shade. Furthermore, they can also be used to update a tired fitting instantly without having to replace the whole thing.

Small Lamp Shades

The shades can be attached in a number of ways, the most popular and convenient way is to use a clip-on lamp shade. These simply clip onto the light bulb with a built-in slightly sprung holder designed for candle and golf ball lamp bulbs.

Some have shade rings that are designed for E27, E14 or B22 lamp holders. Those designed for E27 lamp holders can be used for the others but those for B22 lamp holders cannot be used for E27 lamp holders.

To determine which type of holder is best for you, have a look at the lamp holder and see if it is fitted with a shade retainer. This is a screw-down ring fitted under the lamp and is threaded so that it can be removed and secured once the shade is fitted. If your light fitting doesn’t have a shade retainer, then the only choice is a clip-on lamp shade.

As a rough guide, the larger the wall light or chandelier, the wider the shade needs to be, but this is not a hard and fast rule. Sometimes a larger shade on a small fitting can give the impression of size, whilst small diameter shades can look great on large fittings, particularly if they have multiple tiers.

Please have a look at our article entitled how to look after soft fabric shades that will provide you with information on how you can keep your lamp shade looking as good as new.