How to Pack Lamps and Lampshades

Lamp bases

After removing the light bulb and lamp harp, wrap the base, harp and bulb separately in newsprint. (Use paper pads for large lamps.) Place them together in a carton, filling spaces with crushed paper. More than one well-cushioned lamp may be packed in a carton.

Lamp shades

Never wrap lamp shades in printed newspaper. Ink from newsprint can permanently mark a shade’s delicate linen.  Carefully wrap each shade in three or four sheets of tissue paper, a pillowcase or a large lightweight towel.

To allow for movement, use a sturdy carton at least two inches larger all around than the largest shade. Line it with clean paper, using crushed paper under the lamp shade to create a protective layer but not around the shade. A small shade can be nested inside a large one, if you are sure they will not touch. Only one silk shade should be placed in a carton to avoid stretching the silk. It is best not to pack any other items with your shades.