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Lampshade Sizing Guide: Tips for Designing the Perfect Shade

When it comes to designing your bespoke lampshade, there are a few general rules to help guide you in choosing the right size. However, sometimes breaking the rules can result in a bold and fabulous statement piece! Don’t be afraid to experiment with proportions to create a standout look.

For table and floor lamps, we recommend selecting your lamp base first. This will help determine the correct lampshade size and ensure the perfect balance for your lighting. Below are a few additional tips to consider when designing your custom shade.

Lampshade Height Guide: Finding the Perfect Proportions for Table and Floor Lamps

When designing a custom lampshade for table or floor lamps, getting the proportions right is essential for achieving a well-balanced and stylish look.

For table lamps, the height of the lampshade should generally be between 60-80% of the height of the base. For example, if your lamp base is 45cm (18 inches) tall, the ideal lampshade height would be between 27cm (10.6 inches) and 36cm (14 inches).

For floor lamps, the height of the lampshade should be between 30-50% of the base’s height. If your base measures 153cm (60 inches), the shade height should range between 46cm (18 inches) and 76cm (30 inches).

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your lampshade design perfectly complements the base, providing both a stylish and functional lighting solution.

Lampshade Width Guide: How to Choose the Right Diameter

When choosing the width (diameter) of your lampshade, a good rule of thumb is to ensure the shade is at least twice the width of the widest part of the base. For example, if the widest part of your lamp base is 20cm (8 inches), the ideal lampshade width should be at least 40cm (16 inches). However, be cautious not to make the shade too wide, as it may become unstable.

In general, the width of the bottom of the lampshade should not exceed the height of the lamp base to maintain proper balance and stability.

If you’re looking to refresh an existing lampshade, and want to keep the same size, simply measure the diameter of the top and bottom of the shade, as well as the height (distance between the top and bottom). This will ensure that your new custom lampshade is a perfect fit for your lamp.

Lampshade Shape Guide: Finding the Perfect Match for Your Lamp Base

When selecting the shape of your lampshade, it’s best to match it with the style and shape of your lamp base. For example, a square base typically looks best with a square lampshade, while a round base is complemented by a round shade. At Chantier, I create a variety of shapes, including drum, empire, coolie, square, and rectangular lampshades from my ring stock. However, I can also recover and refresh existing lampshades, whether they’re conical, square, oval, or another shape entirely.

With a wide range of options, you can find the perfect custom lampshade shape to suit your lamp and enhance the style of your space.

Lampshade Use: Choosing the Right Materials for Function and Style

When designing your custom lampshade, it’s important to consider how you plan to use it. If your lamp will be used for reading or tasks requiring bright light, opt for lighter colors and fabrics that allow more light to pass through. These materials help provide ample illumination for functional purposes.

For creating mood lighting, you can choose darker colors and thicker fabrics. Darker lampshades produce more directed up-and-down lighting, which creates a dramatic effect when the lamp is turned on. This type of lighting is perfect for highlighting objects or artwork and adds ambiance to your space.

Additionally, your lampshade can be used as a pendant light for a striking overhead statement, providing versatility and style to any room.

Choosing the Perfect Fabric for Your Bespoke Lampshade

When designing your bespoke lampshade, selecting the right fabric, trims, and cords is key to creating a truly unique piece. If you’re hesitant about making a bold statement with your lampshade during the day, you can add the fun on the inside. This allows the lamp to remain subtle by day, while the inner pattern comes to life at night. Choosing an opaque fabric for the exterior will let the inner design shine through when the light is switched on, creating a stunning visual effect.

If you have a unique or decorative lamp base, opting for a simpler fabric on the shade can complement the base without detracting from its detail. Natural fabrics like linen add texture, as the fibers become more visible when illuminated, adding a lovely tactile element to the design.

When selecting your fabric, consider if the pattern is directional or has a feature print, as this may influence the size and shape of the shade you design. You can also enhance your lampshade by adding trim that either matches or contrasts with the fabric, further personalizing your design.

For more design inspiration, be sure to check out my Instagram account @chantier.studio , where you can see examples of my bespoke lampshades and unique designs.

Still unsure about your design choices? Contact me anytime for more information or personalized guidance. I’m here to help you create the perfect lampshade for your space.

Lampshade Sizing Suggestions: Find the Perfect Fit for Your Space

Choosing the right lampshade size is crucial for creating the perfect balance in your room. Here are some general sizing suggestions for different lamp types:

Bedside Table: For smaller spaces, 20cm (8”), 25cm (10”), or 30cm (12”) drum lampshades work well. If you have a larger room, consider a 40cm (16”) lampshade for a bold, statement look.

Table Lamp: 30cm (12”), 35cm (14”), 40cm (16”), 45cm (18”), or 50cm (20”) lampshades are great options. If space is limited in your bedroom, the 30cm (12”) size is ideal, while the 40cm (16”) size works perfectly as a statement table lamp in a larger space.

Floor Lamp: For floor lamps, choose from 40cm (16”), 45cm (18”), 50cm (20”), 55cm (22”), 60cm (24”), or 70cm (27.6”) lampshades. Larger shades work well with slimline bases, creating a sleek and stylish look.

Pendant: If you’re using just one pendant lamp, go for a larger size—40cm (16”), 45cm (18”), or 50cm (20”). For bigger rooms, sizes up to 60cm (24”), 70cm (27.6”), 80cm (31.5”), or even 100cm (39.4”) can make a dramatic statement. If hanging multiple pendant lamps, smaller sizes like 15cm (6”) or 20cm (8”) with increased height work best.

If you are going to hang a few together, then smaller 20cm/8″ or 15cm/6″ width but increase the height. 

At Chantier, I stock a wide range of lampshade rings, from 8 cm (3”) to 100cm (39.4”), allowing you to create the perfect custom lampshade for your space.

Lampshade Fittings: Compatibility for European and USA Lamps

All Chantier lampshade rings come with a standard 40mm (1.57”) European fitting, which includes a 25mm (0.98”) converter plug. For use with European lamps, simply remove the plug to fit the lampshade perfectly. Additionally, for our customers in the USA, we offer lampshades with Harp & Finial fittings for easy compatibility with American lamp bases.

With these versatile fitting options, you can enjoy our bespoke custom lampshades whether you’re in Europe or the USA.

Lampshade Pricing: Customized to Your Size and Material Choices

The pricing for Chantier custom lampshades is determined by the size, fabric, and inner material you select. Whether you’re looking for a unique fabric, specific dimensions, or a particular lining, we offer a range of options to suit your needs.

If you have a non-standard size request or need a lampshade designed to fit European, UK, or USA lamp holders, please don’t hesitate to contact me at neringa@chantier.lt for personalized assistance.