You discover a fabulous old lamp in the attic but need a special shade to match the base. Or your toddler smashes the shade of your fave lamp and you’re not sure how to replace it.
Before you run out to settle for a plain-Jane substitute, any decorator will tell you that the most interesting lamps are those that sport unusual or custom shades. Be bold and let your lamp’s unique personality shine!
Sheri Arnold, owner of Made in the Shade, a charming shop in the heart of Andover, NJ, shares these expert tips:
1. Always bring your lamp base with you when shopping for a new shade. Don’t even try to wing it.
2. The perfect lampshade will fit the harp (the metal component that supports the shade) properly and, when you step back from the lamp, you should not be able to view the metal neck or “guts” as Sheri calls it.
3. If your shade seems too tall for your lamp base, you don’t necessarily need to change the size of your shade. You might just need a different size harp. You can also “cheat” a bit by adjusting the height of your table.
4. When you take your lamp to a repair shop for a new shade, also take the time to have the cord inspected for safety. This is especially true of vintage and antique lamps.
5. If you want a colored or patterned shade, just bring Sheri a fabric remnant and have a custom shade created. Cost generally runs $30 to $50.