Hanging lamps are a great way to add a touch of style and personality to any room. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, making it easy to find the perfect one for your space. One of the advantages of using pendant lampshades is that you can create an impactful effect very easily, without needing an electrician or handy person to install it. 

In this guide, I'll walk you through the process of hanging a lampshade. Providing you with a step-by-step guide, so you can confidently add a new hanging lamp to your home decor.

Why Choose a Hanging Lamp?

Before I dive into the steps of hanging a lampshade, let's first explore why you might want to choose a hanging lamp for your space.

Versatility and Style

Hanging lamps come in a variety of styles, from modern and sleek to rustic and bohemian. This versatility allows you to find the perfect design  to match your home decor and personal style.

I personally love our feather lampshades and have sizes that fit every home. From large statement pieces like The Coco to smaller complement pieces such as The Juliette.

Saves Space

Pendant lights are a great option for smaller spaces, as they don't take up any floor or table space. This makes them perfect for apartments or rooms with limited space.

Ambient Lighting

Hanging lamps or pendant lights provide ambient lighting, which can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in any room. They are also great for adding a soft glow to a space without being too harsh or bright when combined with a dimmer switch

Making a Statement

Hanging a pendant light over a dining table or focal point of a room can make a statement with real visual impact . I love making a statement with functional works of art as they add life and character to a room.

Zoning

Along with rugs, lights are an effective way of creating zones in a room. Especially in homes where walls have been removed, zoning is a great way of creating interest, defining function and enhancing cosiness. Whether that’s a dining area, a reading corner or an artfully curated corner of treasures, any area can be elevated with lighting. 

How to Hang a Lampshade

Materials Needed

Before starting, make sure you have the following materials on hand:

  • Your lampshade
  • A ceiling pendant - very often already in place in the centre of the ceiling
  • A  ladder. 
  • That’s it! 

If an  electrician is installing a new ceiling pendant, consider where you want your ceiling light to hang. 

If you want the flexibility to move your light around in different seasons, for example, you could consider hanging your light from a plugged pendant that isn’t wired into the mains. In this scenario, you can swag the cable over a beam or a shelf bracket or a hook in the ceiling. 

Measure and Mark

Use a measuring tape to determine the desired height of your lamp. Typically, you should hang lamps 6-8 feet above the floor. However this can vary depending on the height of your ceiling, your lamp and if it's over a table for example. You may want a low slung feature shade over a sofa or a coffee table. 

Once you have your desired height, use a pencil to mark the spot on the ceiling where you want to hang your lamp.

Step 1: Choose the Right Lampshade

The first step in hanging a lampshade is choosing the right one for your space. Consider the character, function and colour of your room, as well as the size and shape of the lampshade . Do you want a lampshade that gives a bright pop of colour contrast or are you looking for something that ties in with upholstery colours? We offer a free feather sample service  

Find more inspiration on finding the perfect lampshade in my previous blog.

Step 2: Assemble the Lamp

Next, assemble your hanging lamp if necessary according to the manufacturer's instructions 

Step 3: Hang the Lamp

With the lamp assembled, it's time to hang it. Carefully lift the lampshade to the pendant fitting and use the screw-on shade ring to secure it in place. Make sure the lamp is securely in place before letting go.

Step 4: Install the Lightbulb

With the lamp hanging, it's time to install the lightbulb. Make sure to use the correct fitting for your pendant - is it a bayonet (B22) or an edison screw fitting (E27) and consider the wattage you require.

Here is a useful guide to finding the perfect lightbulb brightness for your space.

Step 5: Test the Lamp

Before you finish, it's important to test the lamp to make sure it's working properly. Turn on the light switch and make sure the lamp is providing the desired amount of light.

Tips for Hanging a Lampshade

  • If you're hanging multiple lamps in the same room, do you want them evenly spaced and at the same height for a cohesive look? Or are you looking to break up your space? Ceiling lights can be instrumental in this case.
  • Consider using a dimmer switch for your hanging lamp to adjust the lighting as needed.
  • If you're unsure about the height or placement of your lamp, use a piece of string or ribbon to test different options before installing.
  • When choosing a lightbulb, consider the colour temperature and brightness to create the desired ambiance in your space.

Conclusion

Hanging a lampshade may seem intimidating, but with the right materials and a little know-how, it can be simple.

By following these steps and tips, you can confidently add a hanging lamp to any room in your home. So go ahead and hang that lampshade, and enjoy the warm and inviting ambiance it brings to your space.