Edison bulbs, also known as carbon filament bulbs, antique filament bulbs and squirrel cage bulbs, feature a looser filament that is more visible and can be wound in a variety of patterns, making them perfect for display without a shade. These bulbs have a nostalgic light and look that dates back to the 1800s, making them ideal for bringing a touch of industrial elegance and rustic design to any room.
Let’s look at seven different ways to use Edison bulbs in your lighting and interior design:
1. Hanging lamps
A series of modest hanging lamps with bare bulbs illuminate the dining table and add character to any room, whether you’re decorating for a special occasion or for your personal space. Alternate globe, pear, tubular and standard shaped bulbs to keep things interesting.
2. Backdrop
Replace classic string lights with Edison bulbs and hang them against a wall to create a bright, striking backdrop for your wedding (or any other celebration!).
3. Make-up mirror
For a touch of classic Hollywood elegance, use incandescent Edison bulbs around your vanity mirror. Incandescent bulbs have a colour rendering index of 100, which means they reproduce colours correctly, making them perfect for vanity mirrors where you can see the true colour of make-up. For a more realistic retro effect, use globe lamps.
4. Chandelier
Replace the ordinary bulbs in your chandelier with carbon filament bulbs to turn it into an interesting industrial object, or make your own from rustic materials.
5. Centrepieces
Ruffled’s centrepiece proves you don’t have to turn on Edison bulbs to achieve stunning results! Choose from a range of different shapes to add interest to your centrepiece, such as tubular bulbs, globe bulbs or pear bulbs, to make it even more eye-catching.
6. Placemats
These quirky placemats are another bold and innovative way to use carbon filament bulbs. By using them to determine seating locations, you can give any event a distinct look and feel. You can even personalise them by writing the guest’s name on the bulb itself or attaching a label to the base.
7. Spend time outdoors
Make string lights or hang Edison bulbs in your garden to brighten it up. Exposed carbon filament bulbs are the perfect decoration for your next garden party, as well as a great alternative to typical holiday decorations, or simply to enjoy their beautiful brightness all year round. As Edison incandescent bulbs get hot, keep them away from anything flammable.