Drum Lamp Shades: Simple Changes, Stunning Results
Smart, symmetrical, and drop-dead gorgeous, that’s how beautiful drum lamp shades are. Don’t get confused by the name because that’s just a reference to the shape. Otherwise, there’s no similarity between the boring, old drums and these elegant home accessories.
Drum lamp shades are a class apart. From resplendent silk table lampshades to the more earthy linen ones, the sophistication of the shades will saturate your home with panache and elegance. The finesse they lend to the home’s lighting scheme is in itself something that most of us dream about but can’t achieve. Let’s take on this mission impossible and create a stunning lighting effect in your home with a few minor changes. This guide will tell you about all the different ways in which you can use drum lamp shades to make the lights your home’s crowning glory.
What Are Drum Lamp Shades?
Drum lamp shades have a shape that looks similar to that of a drum. They have a cylindrical structure where both the top and bottom rings are of the same size. In drum light shades, you will find two types. These are - regular drum shades and cylindrical shades.
There is only a slight difference between drum lamp shades and cylinder lamp shades. Cylindrical shades are taller and narrower than drum shades. Large drum lamp shades give a more spread-out glow, while modern lamp shades in cylinder shape give more focused light. You can use either lamp shades for table lamps, based on the effect you wish to achieve. Rectangle lamp shades will also look good in contemporary interiors.
What Are the Standard Sizes of Drum Lamp Shades?
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Small Drum Lamp Shades - White lamp shades measuring 8 to 10 inches in diameter and 8 inches in height fall in the category of small shades. Visually, they are nearly as round as they are tall. These shades are best used atop small bases to ensure symmetry and stability.
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Medium Drum Lamp Shades - Medium drum lamp shades measure 12 to 14 inches in diameter and 8 inches in height. So, appearance-wise, these are wider and look a bit squat. These can be used as lamp shades for the living room floor lamps. Solid-coloured and patterned lamp shades will look amazing.
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Tall and Large Drum Lamp Shades - Tall and large drum light shades measure 16 to 18 inches in diameter and 9 to 10 inches in height. These are much rounder as compared to medium shades. They spread illumination over a much wider area. As a result, you can blindly opt for these for ceiling drum lamp shades and pendant lampshades.
How to Measure Drum Lampshades?
When buying new drum lamp shades, here are some of the things that you must consider:
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Diameter - The diameter of lamp shades for table lamps should be proportionate to the base size. For ceiling drum lamp shades, consider the height of the ceiling and the size of the room. In both cases, whether it be linen lamp shades or patterned lamp shades, the shade should not dominate the base or the space. Neither should it get lost in it visually.
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Height - Table lampshades should be 3/4th the height of the base. This is the ideal height. You can go for taller lampshades to make a statement or create some drama. Tall orange lamp shades can be used in a room to give it a glowing, fiery disposition.
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Fitting - Another important aspect, which does not relate to the size but must still be kept in mind is how the shade attaches to the lighting fixture. Usually, fittings are of three types - spider, uno, and clip-on. So check the fixture beforehand and buy the shade accordingly.
Why Are Drum Lamp Shades So Popular?
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Versatility - Drum lamp shades are incredibly versatile. They can fit easily into classic and modern decor. If you want design flexibility, you can opt for round shades or rectangle lamp shades. For simplicity, select white lamp shades and, to make a statement, go with the boldness of teal lamp shades. The versatile nature of drum lamp shades makes them a go-to option for most decorators.
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Light Distribution - Drum shades ensure an even distribution of light, the area of which is determined by the size of the shade. Cylindrical shade ensures a focused upward and downward glow, and drum shades give both ambient and task lighting. White drum lamp shades will diffuse the light softly, creating an open and welcoming space.
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Aesthetic Appeal - Drum lamp shades are always popular because of their magnificent aesthetic appeal. You will find them in different sizes and neutral to vibrant colours that can be found in a range of fabrics. From large table lampshades in sumptuous silks to sedate modern lamp shades in different patterns, they make the room come alive with passion.
In What Fabrics Are Drum Lampshades Available?
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Silk - Silk shades give a rich quality to the room. It adds subtle shine to the surroundings and makes the space look bright. Large orange lamp shades in silk look fiery and intense. They bring energy to the room and make it look sophisticated and elegant.
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Cotton - Cotton and cotton blends are a more practical choice for lampshades as you will find a multitude of colours and patterns in them. From abstract prints to block and indie prints, there is no dearth of choices. Teal lamp shades with abstract designs will add a new dimension and dynamism to the space.
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Linen - Linen lamp shades are loved by all because of their natural, relaxed look. It gives the surroundings a casual, rustic charm, making it look chic and comfortable. Linen lamp shades in vibrant colours will present a pretty picture in modern rooms. They will add dabs of colour, which will add freshness to the space.
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Paper - The best thing about paper lampshades is that they are lightweight. They also happen to be a bit fragile, so it is best to use them as ceiling light shades. At this level, they will be out of harm's way and will also get less dirty. White drum lamp shades for the ceiling will extend a soft, lazy glow, and since paper is a cheaper option, when you get bored of the colour, switch to a new one.
What Are the Best Colours for Drum Lamp Shades?
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Red - Red is a bold and dramatic colour that represents passion and excitement. Against a black backdrop, it looks the best. Red modern lamp shades will complete the look with black couches and other furnishings.
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Green and Blue - Green is the call of nature, and blue represents the open skies. In a room full of browns and yellows, green and blue make a lovely addition. Green patterned lamp shades with emerald and sage hues will add an interesting visual to the space. Navy blue lamp shades will give it a formality. And when you are confused between both colours, choose teal lamp shades as they lie perfectly between the two.
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Beige - Beige is a safe bet. This neutral colour goes well with anything and everything. So, when in doubt, go with beige. Beige lamp shades for the living room will provide subtle sophistication and enhance the decor.
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Black - Black is all about formality, poise, and refinement. They work well with modern lamp shade designs and bring drama to the decor. Pair them with white lamp shades for a yin and yang feeling.
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Yellow and Orange - Yellow and orange are both bright, cheerful colours. They cast a warm and welcoming glow, which is perfect for any space where you wish to add positivity. Yellow lamp shades will remind you of the long summer days, and orange lamp shades will add vibrancy and personality to the room.
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Pink - Pink is a soft and romantic colour perfect for the bedroom or your special feminine corner. A pink lamp by your daughter’s bed will personalise the space as her own.
Final Takeaway
Drum lamp shades blend style and functionality in a graceful way. There are so many ways in which you can incorporate them into your home - atop table lamps and floor lamps, or ceiling light shades. Play with a variety of colours and fabrics to achieve the desired effect. From classic to contemporary decor, they will add subtle elegance wherever they go.
To buy the best quality drum lamp shades, visit Comet Lighting. We pride ourselves in always bringing the best for you so that your home shines with good taste and high quality. Select suitable lampshades from our wide range of colours and fabrics and give your home a trendy makeover.
Learn more about building a proper lighting scheme for your home through our trending blog, ‘Mastering the Art of Layering Light for Cozy Homes’. It will give you a fresh perspective and get you started on the right foot.