How to Install a Lampshade

How to Install a Lampshade
Written By
Kathy Adams
Kathy Adams
Published: Mar 10, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Other shades, such as candelabra-style chandelier shades, have a metal ring or lip that secures between the bulb and the base for the socket. Examine the top of the shade and the lamp or fixture for clues to the exact means needed to install the shade.

Table Lamps

A common style of table lamp has a harp around the light bulb, and a post and finial to keep a lampshade in place. Unscrew the finial or decorative tip at the center of the metal harp that surrounds the light bulb in the lamp. The proper lampshade for this type of lamp has a wire structure called a spider inside the top of the shade, with a hole in the center. Place the hole over the post on the lamp harp, and then replace the finial, tightening it down to make the shade stay on straight.

Chandelier Shades

Some chandeliers feature small lampshades over the individual light bulbs. This type of shade may require that you take out the light bulb to remove or replace the shade. Unscrew the bulb, and then set the shade atop the stick or base beneath the individual light bulb socket. This type of shade, called an uno fitter, has a large lip that fits over the candlestick-style post that holds the light socket. Replace the bulb.

The Drip Cap

  • While the specific means of attaching a lampshade to a lamp may vary depending on the type of shade and fixture, basic table lamps typically have a finial or screw that holds the shade in place.
  • Unscrew the bulb, and then set the shade atop the stick or base beneath the individual light bulb socket.
  • This type of shade, called an uno fitter, has a large lip that fits over the candlestick-style post that holds the light socket.

Photo Credits

Melissa Kirk/Demand Media

Melissa Kirk/Demand Media

Melissa Kirk/Demand Media

Melissa Kirk/Demand Media

Kathy Adams

Kathy Adams is an award-winning journalist and freelance writer who traveled the world handling numerous duties for music artists. She writes travel and budgeting tips and destination guides for USA Today, Travelocity and ForRent, among…

Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.