When you buy a light that requires a light shade, you can often buy a shade that suits the light perfectly right then and there. In many cases, light shades will be a non-negotiable part of the light package. But the problem with light shades is that they tend to not last as long as the lights themselves. Although damage to a light shade is rare, gradual degradation in appearance is common. Also, your tastes may change over time, and in this case you may feel the need to update your style, whether to add a new look or just to match a piece of furniture. Ceiling light shades can have more of an impact on the overall appearance of a room but lamp shades can be easily moved around or even removed. Both have their place for the canny home decorator.
When it comes to buying a new light shade, you will no doubt want to buy one that matches the style of the room in which you intend to place it. Unfortunately, you cannot bring your room with you when you go shopping. However, if you own a laptop, or if you have a computer in the same room as the light-shade-to-be, then you can, in a sense, can your room shopping with you. Our advice is to browse the catalogues of various online retail stores that specialise in light shades. Do this while you are sitting in your light shade’s room. This way, you can compare the style of the room to the style of each light shade without having to resort to your imagination.
Alternatively, if you are unable to compare your room to the light shades directly, it may be worth taking a few photos of the room. Then, take these photos with you to your computer and search as described above. This way you can still compare your room to the light shades. The only difference is that you will have to use your imagination just a little bit more.
Aside from style, another thing you need to consider is how much light your light shade will let out. Some light shades are made of thicker and less transparent material than others, and these will obviously let out less light from your light globe. On the other hand, glass light shades will create a brighter room than those made from materials such as plastic and paper. You will need to decide what kind of lighting effect you will need before you go shopping. Do you want a bright room? Or do you want dimmer ambient light that lends itself to more a laid-back environment? These questions and others, such as how much you are willing to spend, must be answered before you can make intelligent decisions about which light shades to buy.