Drum lampshades are one of the most traditional types of lampshades, extremely popular from the early twentieth century through the 1980s when the fell out of favor.  Today, however, the drum lampshade is experiencing a resurgence in popularity, and the category has expanded to include some current and fun additions.

The drum lampshade may also be referred to as “barrel” shade; the term is derived from the fact that the top and bottom dimensions of the lampshade are nearly the same.   It almost always surprises our customers to learn that there is typically an inch – sometimes 2” of difference between the top and the bottom measurements of the shade.  Were they the same diameter, the shade would actually appear larger at the top than the bottom…. It is an optical illusion!  Drum lamp shades are extremely useful since they not only diffuse light outward by means of the shade material, they also reflect light both downward and upward where it can diffuse off the ceiling.

Drum lampshades are available in either hardback or silk / soft shade styles.  We typically think of the silk drums as being a bit more formal than the hardback drums.  One of the newer drum styles offered by our manufacturers is the “retro drum”.   The retro drum is most often a hardback shade, it is typically about 50 – 60% of the height of the traditional drum lampshade, and, in its most contemporary form, the bottom and the top of the lampshade has a rolled edge instead of the more standard trim.  The retro drum can give an “edge” to a traditional styled lamp……

Another newer drum style is the “corset drum lampshade; its form synonymous with its name.  The corset drum must be built on a frame – hence it is available as a silk or soft shade only.  I often use the corset drum when I want a softer form “retro” look, and am willing to be a little whimsical.  The results can be stunning!

One of the most popular and current lighting design trends is the use of the drum shade as a pendant.  We offer “standard” as well as custom made drum pendant lampshades – complete with a one, two or three socket lighting fixture attached to the ceiling via an adjustable height rod.

Whatever your need – from the traditional drum to the inverted drum pendant, we can work with you to size your shade to the intended light fixture or space, and to select the best fabric – one of our choices, or your own fabric.

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