Quality lamps give rooms character and sophistication. When you want your lamps to deliver more than the ordinary illumination, order custom lampshades to accent your light fixtures. As you plan your lampshade looks and colors, follow these three lampshade design tips.

Drum shades are all the rage because they instantly turn a has-been lamp into a mid-century showpiece. However, drum shades aren't the best choice for every lamp.

Think inside the box by placing rectangular or square shades on your bedside lamps or dining room sconces. Boxy lampshades accent other geometric shapes in modern rooms. Traditional rooms look updated and fresh with square or rectangular shades on table, floor, and wall lamps.

Oval lampshades send light down over wide light fixtures. If you have a broad, colorful ceramic lamp or a sculpture-based lamp that dwarfs standard shades, use an oval shade to reveal the lamp base in all its glory. Oval shades add a timeless touch to entryway sconces and floor lamps, too.

Oval, square, and other unique lamp-shade shapes are stunning in matched pairs flanking sofas. Or use an uncommon table-lampshade on its own in a study or dressing area. Update hallways, bathrooms, and small dining areas with shaped lampshades that add texture and light to artwork and wall-mounted picture displays.

Patterned shades are more popular than ever. Whether you're decorating a tiny reading nook or a spacious master bedroom, patterned lampshades are precisely matched to their rooms' settings for maximum impact.

A dull bronze lamp transforms into a perfect accent with a shade that matches the upholstery fabric on an easy chair. A boring floor lamp becomes one with the wallpaper behind it when the shade is covered in a matching sheet of fabric or wall covering.

Coordinated bedside lamps can be crafted using bedding, pillow, and canopy fabric to cover the shades. Or use a smaller or larger pattern on lampshades in the same colors as your other furnishings to echo the design with a slightly different twist.

For example, use a large-print gingham or striped material on lampshades to match your gingham or striped bedding. Or cut out details from fabric used for your bedding and have them incorporated onto shades. You can pick one kind of bloom from an overall floral fabric to highlight on your lamp.

Ask your lampshade maker to add special accessories and trinkets to your shade. Virtually any kind of craft decor or accent can be placed on a lampshade.

Do you want a pleated shade covered in glitter or sequins? Do you prefer a lampshade stenciled with your favorite team logo and accented with team patches or bumper stickers? Ask your custom lamp-shade professional about the accent possibilities for your size and style of lamp.

Accents including pins, rivets, ribbons, rope, and tacks can be incorporated into a lampshade's design to give light fixtures a nautical, beach, princess, club, space, or animal theme. Ask your lampshade artist about safe materials to use with the lamp, including the highest wattage bulb you should use.

Cooler LED and other similar lights are a smarter choice with decorative and plain lampshades. They don't give off as much heat, and they're energy efficient.

Make your home glow by updating your lampshades today. Order custom lampshades in your personal style by contacting Lamps & Lamp Shades Specialties. We repair, clean, and recover lampshades, and we also design custom lampshades for all types and styles of lamps. Work with us to create the perfect lamp to match your décor.