A Singularly Simple Shape

The cylinder shade is characterized by a simple cylindrical design. However, this doesn't mean that they are all the same. On the contrary, the available heights and widths for these shades come in quite a range, as well as the height-to-width ratio, the selection of glass, the type of patterning, coloring and designs on the outer surface.

Vintage cylinder shades are also available. The simplest ones may be reminiscent of oil lamps that had a clear glass cylinder for blocking wind to prevent the lamp from getting blown out. When it needed to be extinguished the cylinder could be lifted off by hand so the flame could be blown out.

Art Patterning

Because the glass cylinder shade has a simple cylindrical profile, designs on the outer surface are much easier to see and appreciate. As a result, one can find floral patterns and prints, as well as artistic renderings of figures or scenes from nature. Colors of different kinds are also possible although in recent times a white cone lamp shade has been leading in popularity. The patterning need not be defined by glass etch or coloring, but can also be in the form of textures in the surface of the class. A popular pattern these days is a ripple or wave texture on the surface that makes it much more interesting than a flat, smooth surface.

Beaded Patterning

Because the cylinder is a somewhat bland shape, many people strive to enhance its appeal by decorating its outer surface heavily. In addition to glass and paint, the surface of the cylinder can be further decorated with beads, such products forming the basis of the class of beaded lamp shades. Beaded lamp shades are a surface design that consists of beads attached to the exterior. The result is a decoration with a very solid feel. The beads also refract light in interesting ways to make for a brilliant, sparkling shade.

Shape

In addition to surface patterning, the shape of the cylinder does have some fine variations such as slight tapering from top to bottom or vice versa. High tapering makes it resemble a cone lamp shade somewhat, meaning the two categories overlap slightly although some would argue that any tapering renders the item a glass cone shade immediately.

Sconces

A variant of the lamp is the wall-mounted sconce, which is essentially a light source that's fixed into place on a wall or other permanent structure. The sconce may sit on a stationary fixture or a swing-arm that can extend from the wall. The swing arm style makes it easy to adjust the lighting finely for better coverage of specific spots in the room. Cylinder sconces are also quite popular for homes in areas of high traffic such as staircases and hallways. Sconces an also be found in commercial settings like hotels and restaurants that require subdued lighting in many locations.