It's a Trickier Question Than You Might Think
I've noticed recently that the internet seems to claim every type of lamp hardware is an uno fitter. While I think American shoppers are familiar with the term, and that's why it is being used to describe other types of lamp hardware, this causes confusion when ordering a lamp shade to properly fit your lamp.
Here is My Quick Guide to Uno Fitters
An UNO FITTER is a lamp shade fitting with:
- An internal diameter of 1.25 inches
- A rolled metal edge that gives it some thickness
- 3 spokes that often stem from the top of the lamp shade
- No additional pieces to attach it to the shade - it just rests on the socket
Side note: No one has been able to tell me why the spokes usually come from the top and travel most of the way through the shade. If someone knows why they are created this way, please share.
Uno fitters can thread onto the socket to hold pendant shades or downward floor lamps, but mostly commonly, they have no threading.
Uno fitters were most popular in smaller, commercially-produced lamps in the US. In more recent years, these fittings have become less popular and most new lamps have euro fitters which have have been popular on European lighting for decades.
A EURO FITTER looks similar, but has some differences:
- A flat disk shape, sometimes with a ripple in it
- Three standard interior diameter sizes: 1 3/8", 1 9/16", 1 5/8"
- Spokes that stem from the bottom of the shade
- A threaded washer than secures the hardware tightly to the lamp base
Because of the sizes differences, these two types of fitters are not interchangeable. That is part of the reason it frustrates me that you can find both styles of fitters under the name 'uno fitter' when shopping online.
Between these two types of hardware, I always recommend the euro fitter. If you have a vintage lamp that needs to be rewired, replace the socket with one that uses a euro fitter shade. It is a more stable connection, the spokes don't cast shadows on the inside of the shade, and it works well for any size lamp shade.
If you are looking at my lamp shades, and your lamp needs an uno fitter, that is no problem. Shades with uno fitters can also be ordered through my euro fitter listings. Leave a note in the comments that your lamp needs an uno fitter instead, and I will confirm the details when I receive the order.
I hope this helps! -Krista
Click Here to See My Custom Lamp Shade Options That Use Euro Fitters