Buyer’s Guides

Choose your product.

Choose a product below for the measurements, finishes and practical details you need before ordering.

A small candle clip wall shade alongside a table lamp and floor lamp with ivory drum shades

The lampshade guide

The Lampshade Buyer’s Guide

Everything you need to choose a fitting, size and fabric for your home.

A considered starting point

Beautiful proportions begin with the right fitting.

A lampshade should feel as though it belongs to both the lamp and the room. Begin with the fitting you have, then consider scale, fabric and the atmosphere you would like to create.

The Lampshade Finder

Let us guide you.

Two simple choices will give you a considered starting point. You can then compare measurements before ordering.

Prefer to browse? Skip to the fitting guide ↓
  1. 01Choose the fitting
  2. 02Consider the scale
  3. 03Review your guide

Question 01

Where will the shade be used?

Chapter One · The Fitting

Two timeless styles,
each with a purpose.

Smooth ivory candle clip lampshade with rolled edges on a brass wall light in a bright interiorTHE CANDLE CLIP · WALL LIGHTS & CHANDELIERS

01 · Candle Clip

Small in scale.
Rich in detail.

Designed for candle-style light fittings, our candle clip shades attach directly to a compatible candle-shaped bulb. They soften wall lights and chandeliers while adding a beautifully considered fabric detail.

Best for
Wall lights, chandeliers and small decorative lamps
Frame
White candle clip frame
Dimensions
7.7cm top × 13cm high × 14.5cm bottom
Good to know
Often ordered in pairs or matching sets

02 · The Drum

A clean silhouette.
Endlessly versatile.

Our straight-sided drum lampshades suit table lamps, floor lamps and ceiling pendants. The frame may be a vintage gold-coloured or standard white utility fitting; its colour is stated in the individual listing. If you prefer the other finish, ask us before ordering and we can check availability.

Best for
Table lamps, floor lamps and ceiling pendants
Frame
Vintage gold-coloured or white utility fitting; see listing
Principal sizes
20cm, 30cm and 40cm diameter
Compatibility
Standard UK and European fittings; ask about specialist fittings
Ivory drum lampshade with close-up views of its fitting and rolled edgeTHE DRUM · TABLE, FLOOR & CEILING

Choosing the proportion

Table lamp, floor lamp or ceiling pendant?

For table and floor lamps, the shade should feel balanced with the base. A shade that is too small can make the lamp look top-heavy, while one that is too large may overpower the base.

For ceiling pendants, consider the scale of the room as well as the fitting. A 30cm drum can suit smaller rooms and hallways, while a 40cm drum has more presence in larger bedrooms, studies and living spaces.

See the size in your room ↗ to compare a representative lampshade with your space. The preview shows scale, rather than the exact fabric or product.

Balanced ivory drum lampshade on a tall brass floor lamp in a bright room

Chapter Two · Proportion

The principal drum sizes.

Consider the lamp base, the furniture beneath it and the breathing space around the whole arrangement.

20

20cm diameter × 18cm high

The Compact

Small table lamps · bedside lights · quiet corners
30

30cm diameter × 21cm high

The Everyday

Medium bases · bedside tables · smaller floor lamps
40

40cm diameter × 25cm high

The Statement

Large bases · floor lamps · generous ceiling positions

How to measure

Three checks before you order.

If you already own a shade that feels balanced, its measurements are the most reliable place to begin.

  1. 01

    Diameter

    Measure in a straight line across the bottom ring of your existing shade.

  2. 02

    Height

    Measure vertically from the bottom ring to the top ring.

  3. 03

    Fitting

    Look inside: does the shade clip to the bulb, or sit on a standard utility fitting?

Diagram showing diameter measured straight across the lower ring and height measured vertically from lower to upper ring
Measure across the lower ring for diameter; measure straight up between rings for height.
A useful starting point

The shade diameter is often around twice the width of the lamp base, and slightly wider than its broadest point.

Chapter Three · The Craft

Pattern, placement
and the handmade finish.

We consider fabric weight, colour and pattern scale before cutting. Small differences in pattern placement are part of an individually made shade.

01

Pattern placement

Drums are usually cut on the straight. Candle clips may be cut on the angle where this gives the best finish.

02

Matching pairs

Order shades for the same room together so they can be made from the same fabric batch wherever possible.

03

Made to order

Each shade uses professional lampshade materials, a smooth matt white lining, hand-rolled edges and one neat seam.

Chapter Four · The Atmosphere

How fabric
shapes the light.

Fabric weight changes both the amount of light and the mood it creates. Choose practical brightness, a gentler glow—or something between the two.

01

Linen & fine cotton

Brighter, softly diffused light.

02

Medium-weight cotton

A balanced glow with a little more softness.

03

Wool & velvet

Warmer, lower and more atmospheric.

Linen, medium-weight cotton and dark velvet drum lampshades showing different light diffusion
LED

Bulb guidance

We recommend LED bulbs because they remain cooler in use. The bulb must not touch the fabric or lining.

29 / 40

UK & EU fittings

Keep the reducer in place for a 29mm UK fitting, or remove it for a wider 40mm European fitting.

○

Ceiling diffusers

Add a translucent diffuser beneath a pendant shade to soften glare and finish the view from below. Contact us to discuss the options currently available.

Made by enquiry

Bespoke Lampshade
Making Service

To help us give you an accurate answer, please share as much as you can:

  • The shape you are looking for
  • Approximate measurements
  • The fabric or style you have in mind
  • Your lamp fitting, if known; a photograph helps
  • Your delivery postcode

Looking for a different size or shape?

We can consider other drum sizes, Empire and oval shades, and other shapes by enquiry. What we can make depends on the fabric, construction and fitting required. Bespoke prices are quoted individually.

Does your lamp have a specialist fitting?

If it uses a US harp fitting or another specialist fitting, contact us before ordering. We can advise on the shade construction and any separate connector, adaptor or carrier you may need.

Some fabrics are unsuitable for certain shapes or sizes. Larger or specialist shades may have delivery restrictions or additional postage charges.

Not sure what you need? Send us the details you do have and we’ll help you work through the options.

The House Notes

Questions,
answered.

Should I measure the top or bottom of my shade?+

The bottom diameter is usually the most helpful measurement, followed by the vertical height.

Can I replace my shade with the same size?+

Yes. If your existing shade feels balanced and fits correctly, matching its diameter and height is the simplest approach.

Which bulb should I use?+

We recommend a compatible LED bulb. It stays cooler and must sit without touching the lampshade fabric or lining.

Does fitting position matter for a drum shade?+

Yes. When ordering, check the individual listing and select table or floor lamp versus ceiling pendant if that choice is offered. The frame position needs to suit how the shade will hang. If you are unsure, send us a photograph of your lamp or ceiling fitting before ordering.

Is a candle clip shade sold singly or as a pair?+

Please check the individual listing: the quantity may be a single shade or a pair. Candle clip shades attach to a compatible candle-shaped bulb; make sure the clip sits securely and the bulb does not touch the lining or fabric.

Can I request another drum size or frame colour?+

Our principal drum sizes are 20cm, 30cm and 40cm. Other sizes may be available as bespoke orders at a different price. The listing states whether the frame is vintage gold-coloured or white; contact us before ordering if you would prefer the other finish.

Will the shade fit a US harp lamp?+

A standard UK utility shade may require a different fitting and a separate adaptor or carrier. Send us a photograph and the dimensions of your lamp fitting before ordering so we can advise on a suitable bespoke solution.

What if I am still unsure?+

Send us a clear photograph of the lamp or fitting with approximate measurements and a little information about the room. We will be happy to guide you.

A note from the Estate Office

Still deciding?

Send us a clear photograph of your fitting and its measurements. We will help you find a shade that feels considered, balanced and right for the room.

Ask for Guidance ↗Browse all lampshadesExplore lamp bases

02 · The buyer’s guides

Scatter cushions

Choose a cover for your furniture, then add the inner that gives you the fullness and feel you prefer.

Find your arrangement

Where will your cushion sit?

1. Choose the setting
2. Choose the finished look

A starting point for your room

An easy layered arrangement

Place the larger cushions behind a contrasting accent.

Two 20-inch cushions and one 16- or 18-inch accentFurniture proportions and your preference can change the final arrangement.
Single 16-inch scatter cushion on an armchair
16 inchesNeat on a chair or bench
Pair of 18-inch scatter cushions on a sofa
18 inchesA versatile sofa size
Generous 20-inch scatter cushion on a bed
20 inchesMore presence on a bed or larger sofa

Find your cushion inner

What size and feel would you like?

1. What size is your empty cover?
2. How would you like it to feel?

Your inner guide

MicroCluster fibre

A synthetic, feather-free choice with softness and shape recovery. Check the current listing for its construction.

Essential inner
20 × 20 inches
Handmade inner
19 × 19 inches
These are general fullness guides. Check stock, composition and exact measurements on the individual listing.Explore cushion inners ↗

More about covers and finishes

Measure your cushion

Remove the inner and lay the empty cover flat without stretching it. Measure seam to seam across its width and height; do not include piping in the measurement. For scale, a 16-inch cover suits an armchair, 18 inches works well on many sofas and 20 inches gives a more generous finish.

Piping & zip

Piping is a narrow cord covered in fabric and sewn into the edge seam. It outlines the cushion and gives it a more tailored shape. A zip along the lower edge lets you remove or change the inner. Check each product listing for its particular finish and closure.

Cover or complete cushion?

Our usual offering is a scatter cushion cover on its own, without an inner. If an inner is included, the individual listing will say so clearly. Buying the cover separately lets you choose a filling that suits your comfort and material preferences.

Choose the inner size

For a full finish, an Essential inner is generally 2 inches larger than the cover; a Handmade inner is generally 1 inch larger. For an 18-inch cover, that means a 20-inch Essential or a 19-inch Handmade inner. Check the measurements shown for the inner you select.

Choose the filling

Synthetic fibre choices offer a feather-free option; feather has a softer, relaxed feel and benefits from plumping; British sheep wool gives firmer support. Consider any material sensitivities, then check the individual inner listing for its exact composition and care guidance.

Something more particular?

Most covers in the collection are selected from specialist suppliers. We may be able to consider a bespoke fabric cover or size by enquiry, depending on the fabric and our making capacity. Send the Estate Office the size, fabric and quantity you have in mind.

Want to picture the proportions? See the size in your room uses a representative cushion as a scale guide; it does not show the exact fabric or product.

03 · The buyer’s guides

Waste paper bins

A fabric-covered, gently tapered bin for a study, bedroom or dressing room. Selected designs remain available while we review this part of the collection.

The standard size

Proportioned for everyday rooms.

Top diameter
25 cm
Height
30 cm
Base diameter
20 cm

All measurements are approximate.

Diagram of the tapered waste paper bin showing a 25 cm top, 30 cm height and 20 cm base

What it is made from

Lightweight, structured construction.

The exterior is fabric wrapped around a rigid curved panel, with a smooth rolled top and one discreet rear seam. A matt-white rigid PVC inner wall and Foamex base give it shape. It is a lightweight, fabric-covered piece; it is not a solid moulded plastic or metal bin.

Find your answer

What would you like to check?

Your guide

Choose what you need to know

Select an option to see the most relevant guidance, then explore the common questions below.

The finishing detail

Choose your trim

Available finishes depend on the individual design.

No trimGoldSilverCopper
Trim colours shown are indicative; check the current listing or ask for a close-up if matching another finish.

Designed for dry paper and ordinary room waste. Not suitable for kitchens, liquids or wet waste. Keep away from open flames and high heat.

Waste paper bin FAQs

How is the bin made?

Fabric is individually cut and wrapped around a curved rigid panel. It has a rolled upper edge, one rear seam, a matt-white rigid PVC inner wall and a Foamex base. It is light in weight rather than a solid moulded plastic or metal bin.

Will the pattern look exactly like the photograph?

Pattern placement varies as each piece is cut. The tapered shape may cause horizontal lines to rise slightly towards the rear.

How do I clean it?

Gently blot or spot clean the fabric with a soft, slightly damp cloth; avoid rubbing. Wipe the inner wall with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Never soak or submerge the bin, use abrasive cleaners or vacuum its fabric-covered structure.

Can you make one in another fabric?

If you have seen a fabric on another Berry & Grouse product, ask the Estate Office. Availability depends on the fabric and components we have at the time; we will confirm what is possible before an order is placed.

Enquire about a fabric-covered bin

See the size in your room ↗ uses a representative bin as a scale guide; it does not show the exact fabric or product.

04 · The buyer’s guides

Draught excluders

Comfort, texture and a considered finish for doors, hallways and cool corners of the home.

At the foot of the door

A useful piece, made to belong in the room.

A draught excluder is a long, padded furnishing placed at the base of a door to help soften the movement of cold air into a room. Berry & Grouse cases are handmade in selected fabrics with a zip and overlocked internal edges.

Some listings are for the case alone and others include an inner. Check the individual listing for exactly what is included.

French blue toile draught excluder from the Berry and Grouse collection

Shape & size

Measure the door first.

The outer case is approximately 90 × 20 cm. Once filled, its finished size is approximately 88 cm long × 16 cm high × 10 cm deep. The final shape varies with the inner. It suits many doors up to around 83 cm wide; check your own door and the listing before ordering.

Choose the feel

Three kinds of inner.

  • Hollowfibre — light, practical and washable where the inner’s care label permits.
  • Feather — naturally softer and weightier, with a more relaxed shape. Not machine washable.
  • Sheep wool — natural, firm, weighty and structured, with insulating properties.

Inners may be available separately. Follow the selected inner’s own care instructions.

Find your answer

What are you checking?

Your guide

Choose what you need to know

Select an option to see the most relevant guidance, then explore the common questions below.

Finishes & care

Front and back fabric

The usual finish has matching fabric on both sides, though the pattern may fall differently. Selected designs may offer a soft grey linen-look back or a brown leatherette reverse that can be wiped with a soft, damp cloth. Check the listing for the options available on your chosen design.

Handmade pattern & shape

Each case is cut and made individually, so pattern placement and small finishing details may vary from the photograph. The filled shape also depends on your inner: feather gives a softer, more relaxed look, while hollowfibre and wool hold a more structured shape. All measurements are approximate.

Cleaning the case

Always remove the inner first. Follow the care instructions on the individual listing and product label; spot clean where appropriate and let the case dry fully before replacing the inner. Wipe a leatherette reverse gently with a soft, damp cloth.

Is an inner included?

It varies by product. Some listings offer a case only; others include an inner. Check the individual listing and its options to see what you will receive.

05 · The buyer’s guides

Faux botanicals

Choose artificial stems and plants by their finished size and the place they will stand.

Find your answer

What are you choosing?

Your guide

Choose what you need to know

Select an option to see the most relevant guidance, then explore the common questions below.

Faux botanical FAQs

Check the measurements

Compare the listed height and spread with the space available. A stem’s finished height also depends on the vase and how much of the stem sits inside it; a potted tree’s stated height includes its pot unless the listing says otherwise.

Choose the position

Consider the sightline across furniture and the width of leaves or branches, not just the height. Check the listing before placing a plant outdoors: only products specifically marked for outdoor or UV use should be chosen for that purpose.

Simple care

Dust gently with a soft brush or microfibre cloth. Support delicate leaves and flowers while cleaning; wipe with a slightly damp cloth when needed and allow to dry fully.

Across the collection

Useful to know

Colour on screen

Colours can appear different between screens and in different lighting. If a close colour match matters, ask about a fabric sample or further product photographs before ordering.

Measurements

We provide the most accurate dimensions available for each item. Handmade pieces and some supplier-made products, including faux botanicals, may vary slightly; check the individual listing for its measurements and tolerances.

Check the listing

Product options, materials, what is included and care instructions can vary. The individual listing gives the details for the item you choose; please ask us if anything is unclear.

Delivery of your order

Some pieces come from our selected suppliers and may be dispatched separately from our handmade items. See our delivery information for full details.

Still need a hand?

Send the Estate Office your measurements, a photograph or the product you have in mind. We will help you work through the options.

Contact the Estate Office Back to all guides ↑