Lampshade Buying Guide by Blue Marble Lighting

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This is part 4 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 4 of 5: What Size Shade Should I Buy for my Chandelier or Wall Sconce?

Chandelier and wall sconces typically have candle type sockets, so be sure to choose a shade that has a clip on torpedo/candle style fitter. Shades are sized based on their bottom diameter or width.

The simplest way to determine the correct size shade is to measure the length of your candle cover. Candle covers usually come in standard lengths such as 2,3,4,5, and 6 inches. The length of the candle cover should approximate the bottom diameter of the shade you select. In other words, if you have a 4 inch length candle cover on your chandelier or wall sconce, you should select a 4 inch bottom diameter shade.

Bulb clip fitters are usually found on small and miniature type shades that are sized for chandeliers and sconces. The torpedo clip fitters are narrower in shade and are designed for torpedo/candle shaped light bulbs.

                                                                

*Be sure to confirm the type of fitter a shade has before purchasing it.*