Ceramic Table Lamps
Decorating with Ceramic Table Lamps
Lighting and lighting fixtures are important elements of interior decorating. Ceramic table lamps make an excellent addition to the decor of any room. Since most ceramic lamps are handmade, there are a lot natural variations between lamps, making each one a unique piece of art. There are several design elements from which to choose when buying a ceramic lamp. The shape and size of the lamp base is one of the first elements that people take into consideration. Another element is the color of the lamp base. The final element that needs to be decided on is the shape and material of the lampshade.
Lamp Base Shape and Size
There are a variety of sizes of ceramic lamps available. Sizes range from tall floor lamps to small clip on lights. Ceramic table lamps have a wide variety of heights and widths. They can range in height anywhere from 12 inches to 28 inches tall. The width of the bases can be anywhere from 8 to 20 inches. While rounded shapes are most common, the lamp bases can be just about any shape including square, rectangular, and triangular. Some lamps hold the same shape and size from the bottom of the base to the top. Other lamps start out wide at the bottom and taper in toward the top.
Lamp Base Color
The color options for ceramic table lamps are almost limitless. It is easy to find a ceramic lamp that will match the color scheme of the room in which you are planning on putting the lamp. The ceramic base can either have a high gloss finish or a less reflective matte finish. The type of finish can effect the look of the color. Often there are several variations in the color throughout the base. The nature of ceramics and their glazes doesn't allow for a solid color on the whole lamp. It is also possible to get lamps with multiple colors on the base, with natural variations within each color.
Lampshade Shape and Material
There are two basic lampshade shapes for ceramic table lamps: conical and drum. Conical shades are round and start out wide at the bottom and angle in getting smaller at the top. Drum shaped shades are the same width from top to bottom. Drum shades are typically round though they can be the same shape as the lamp base. Lampshades can be made from any translucent material. A commonly found lampshade style is linen stretched over a plastic form. While linen is popular for lampshades, any material can be used. Other common materials are muslin and silk. Bamboo is another popular material for lampshades. It offers a unique texture and when it is woven is creates a durable, easy to clean, translucent fabric.