Lampshade Buying Guide by Blue Marble Lighting

This is part 2 of a 5 parts series on how to correctly size and purchase lamp shades for table lamps, floor lamps, chandeliers, wall sconces, etc. Be sure to read all of the parts in this series for the most complete information.

Part 1 How Do I Choose the Right Lampshade?
Part 2 How are Lampshades Measured?
Part 3 How Do I Know What Fitter My Lampshade Has?
Part 4 What Shade Should I Buy for my Chandelier or Wall Sconce?
Part 5 Lampshade Glossary of Terms

Part 2 of 5: How are Lampshades Measured?

There are two methods of measuring your shade.*Be sure to confirm how an advertised shade is measured before purchasing.*

Method 1

Top = Diameter across the top of the shade
Bottom = Diameter across the bottom of the shade
Height = Height from bottom of shade to top of shade, taken straight up from inside of shade.

Method 2

Top = Diameter across the top of the shade
Bottom = Diameter across the bottom of the shade
Slant = Side measurement from bottom of shade to top of shade, taken from the outside of the shade on the slant.

*Be sure to check the method used for measuring the height of the shade that you are considering purchasing.