How To Measure A Lamp Harp: Lamp Proportions And More
If you got a lamp from the surplus store, do not be too quick to get just any fancy lampshade. It is best to be aware of your lamp’s measurement first before shopping for a shade.
Below, you will learn how to measure a lamp harp to know what lampshade will fit your new light source. Read on.
Choosing The Right Lampshade
Your lamp and its shade should match perfectly. If not, your lamp will not fully work for its purpose and will surely look awkward.
To get the appropriate shade for your lamp, take time to measure your lamp harp and lamp base.
Measuring Lamp Harps
Lamp harps are components to which the lampstand is attached—at the same time, protecting the bulb.
A lamp harp has two parts: a saddle and the harp itself.
The saddle is fastened under the lamp socket. Meanwhile, the harp is the lightweight oval-shaped or U-shaped frame attached to the saddle at the lower end, extending upwards and around the bulb.
Why is a lamp harp measurement important? The height of the shade that you should buy for your new lamp is relative to the height of your lamp harp.
To measure lamp harp sizes, take a measuring tape or a ruler. Then, note how many inches it runs from the topmost part of the harp to the socket cap.
Generally, the height of the lampshade should not exceed the measurement of the harp plus ½ inch, and should not be smaller than the lamp harp’s height minus ½ inch.
For example, a lamp with a harp that is eight inches tall should have a lampshade whose height ranges from 8 ½ to 7 ½ inches.
Measuring The Lamp Base
We learned that to the height of a lamp shade, harp sizes are key.
The lampshade’s bottom diameter, on the other hand, is relative to the measurement of the lamp’s height from the bottom of the base to the top of the lamp stem. You can use a measuring tape or ruler for this. Let us refer to this measurement as you lamp’s height.
As a general rule, the lampshade’s diameter should be within two inches, plus or minus, the height of your lamp.
For example, if your lamp is 16 inches tall, you should select a lampshade with diameter within the 14 to 18 inch-range.
Extra Tips In Choosing Your Lampshade
Once you know the general rules of lamp proportions, you should be more confident to play around and experiment. If it looks good, even if it does not follow the rules, go for it. Such lamps could become statement pieces in your space.
Choose a lampshade fabric that will complement the style of your lamp base. If your lamp base features intricate patterns and design, choose a simple print. If your base is quite plain, you can choose a bold pattern for your lampshade.
Have at least two inches separation between your shade and your bulb. The wider the separation, the higher bulb wattage you can have.
Conclusion
How to measure a lamp harp is easy. Keep in mind the proportion rules to choose the right shade for your lamp. But, don’t feel too restricted. Go for your style and aesthetic. Just make sure that you follow safety precautions, and your lamp is ready to light up your space.