Balanced vs Unbalanced Coolie Glass Shades
Understanding the difference between balanced and unbalanced coolie glass shades will help you choose the correct shade for your light fitting.
Coolie glass shades are one of the most popular styles of traditional lighting. Although many shades appear almost identical, they are manufactured in two different versions — balanced and unbalanced.
Choosing the correct version ensures your shade hangs properly and looks exactly as intended.
What is a Balanced Coolie Shade?
A balanced coolie shade has been manufactured so the glass hangs perfectly level when suspended from a ceiling pendant.
A balanced shade has an even weight distribution all the way around the glass, allowing it to hang perfectly straight from a ceiling pendant.
Balanced Shades are Best For
- Ceiling pendants
- Suspended lighting
- Kitchen islands
- Dining tables
- Entrance halls
- Traditional ceiling lights
What is an Unbalanced Coolie Shade?
An unbalanced coolie shade is designed specifically for fixed fittings such as table lamps and wall lights.
An unbalanced shade is slightly heavier on one side meaning it will not hang perfectly level from a pendant fitting. This isn't a fault. Because each shade is individually blown, small variations in the glass thickness naturally occur during the manufacturing process.
Unbalanced Shades are Best For
- Table lamps
- Floor lamps
- Wall lights
- Desk lamps
- Bedside lamps
- Fixed lamp holders
Why are Coolie Shades Made Differently?
Traditional coolie shades are handmade in moulds.
This small difference is almost impossible to see by eye, but it makes a significant difference once the shade is fitted.
How to Choose the Correct Shade
| Light Fitting | Recommended Shade |
|---|---|
| Ceiling Pendant | Balanced |
| Table Lamp | Unbalanced |
| Floor Lamp | Unbalanced |
| Wall Light | Unbalanced |
Common Questions
Why is my coolie shade hanging crooked?
The most common reason is that an unbalanced shade has been fitted to a ceiling pendant or a balanced shade has been fitted to a table lamp.
Can I use a balanced shade on a table lamp?
Yes, a balance shade can be used on either a fixed fitting or a pendant.
Can I use an unbalanced shade on a pendant?
It will usually lean slightly to one side because the uneven weight distribution of the glass.
Do balanced and unbalanced shades look different?
No. The difference is very subtle and is created during manufacture. It only becomes noticeable once the shade is fitted.
Can John Moncrieff help me choose?
Yes. Simply tell us what type of light fitting you have and we'll recommend the correct balanced or unbalanced shade.
Need Advice?
John Moncrieff manufactures and supplies balanced and unbalanced coolie glass shades in a wide range of sizes and finishes. If you're unsure which version you need, our experienced team will be happy to help.