Clip on lamp shades are one of the easiest to attach.  They're made up of a wire assembly that has a little bit of flex in it.  This shade then simply clips onto the light bulb.  Clip on shades usually have the assembly built into the shade, and are harder to modify to other types.  However, turning a different kind of lamp shade into a clip shade is easy.  There are separate clip on shade adapters available that can be attached to an existing lamp shade to convert it into this type.

 

Shop for Clip-On Lamp Shades at Bargain Prices in the Daily eBay Auction Listings Below:

 

 

 

 

 

Lamp shades aren't all created equal.  There are many different shapes to choose from, depending on your preference, the way you decorate your home, and the type of lamp you're using.  There are also several different methods of attaching the shade to the lamp.  It's important to know which one your lamp uses, so that you won't bring home the perfect shade, only to find out that it doesn't fit.  Here are some of the basic types of lamp shades, with a little bit of information about each.

 

 

Shades that clip onto the lamp should be used only for smaller lamps.  Larger shades with this kind of adapter often become unstable.  This is because it's important for the clip on assembly not to exert much force on the bulb.  It may also be difficult to use a shade of this type with your lamp if you prefer CFL bulbs, due to the difference in bulb shape from an incandescent.  Clip on lamp shades are relatively easy to find, so replacing an old one isn't a big deal in most cases.

Uno shades are another common type.  They've been around for a long time, but have become more common recently due to the increased number of inexpensive imported lamps. 

 

The Uno shade has its uses, but isn't always good for the situations in which it's being used.  Similar to a chimney fitter shade, Uno shades slip down over the electrical socket in the lamp. They may also attach directly to the rim of the socket.  In some cases, this may be a fire hazard, and it can limit your ability to replace shades.  This shade is also not very stable, like the clip on shade mentioned above.

 

Harp fitter lamp shades are the most secure, and use a piece of metal wire and a U shaped piece of hardware.  This fits into a saddle on the lamp.  It may snap in, or it may be screwed or bolted in.  However, this mount is almost universally the most secure and long lasting type.  This is best for larger shades.  Look for harp fitter shades that have a swivel arrangement at the top if you tend to angle your lamp shade.  Replacement of a harp fitter shade is also relatively easy - just make sure the hardware is the same size and type.

 

Chimney fitter shades are another possibility.  They have a large hole in the center of their frame.  This is because they're meant to slip over the kind of glass chimney usually found on an oil or kerosene lamp.  You won't see many, if any, of these shades in an ordinary store.  However, some old lamps still use them, and replacement shades may be available from specialty retailers and online through the eBay auctions we list here.