Lampshade Styles

With some many different lampshade styles on the market today, it's hard to know where to begin when choosing a replacement shade or simply trying to find a lampshade to match the lamp base you've already picked out. From classical to contemporary, there is such a vast array of both styles and materials that you are sure to find a lampshade to match practically any design scheme imaginable. There are intricacies as well as advantages and disadvantages to each, so let's look at some of the different options you have to choose from.

Glass lampshades - glass lampshades are elegant and graceful and typically are matched with classic and antique designs, but many modern designs are now incorporating glass lampshades. Although infinitely elegant, they are still very fragile, so keep this in mind. Replacement glass lampshades can also be quite expensive.

Victorian lampshades - these antique lampshades provide an unequaled elegance with their silk, velvet and satin materials, cloth and beaded and braided fringe, and lace corner coverings. Custom designed and hand-made, you can't find a more fabulous design than beaded lampshades.

Western lampshades - calfskin, deer hide, pig skin, and all types of leather lampshades provide a nice, rustic look and hearken back to the old West. These country lampshades are perfect for cabins, ranches, cottages, and country homes.

Wholesale and discount lampshades

If you just can't afford to purchase custom design lampshades or would just rather spend your money on other things, there are plenty of wholesale and discount lampshade dealers to choose from. And remember, inexpensive doesn't always mean that you have to sacrifice the style. With the variety of wholesalers on the market today, you're sure to find a gorgeous lampshade to fit your decor without bending your pocketbook.

On the smaller side of things

Small lampshades and mini lampshades come in just as many varieties as the larger ones. You can choose from stone, glass, and nearly any fabric you can think of. Small lampshades and mini lampshades go mostly on bedside and desk lamps.

Making your own lampshades

There are many easy techniques on how to make a lampshade. Most of these projects simply require you to remove the current shade from its original frame and replace it with a fabric and design of your very own. You usually only need simple supplies like cotton tape, scissors, and a little bit of creativity to make your very own decorative lampshade. You can make various lampshade patterns and add a number of accessories to give it a truly unique and even custom look.

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