If your question is not here, write to me. I answer every message myself, usually the same day.
The lamps
Are the maps real antiques?
No, and that is on purpose. The maps are faithful reproductions of public domain originals, printed on archival paper. A real 400-year-old map would fade and crack in a year with a bulb behind it, and I would rather it stayed in a drawer.
What bulb should I use?
A warm white LED, 2700K, no brighter than 60 watt equivalent. Every lamp ships with one. LED bulbs run cool, which keeps the shade happy.
Are the lamps safe?
Every lamp uses new UL-listed sockets, cord and plugs, and every shade is backed with fire-retardant material. I test each lamp lit for a full evening before it ships.
Can I buy a shade on its own?
Yes. Shades come in several sizes with a standard washer fitting (a spider fitting) that suits most harp lamps. Tell me your lamp's height and I will help you pick a size.
Custom maps
Can you make a shade from a map of my town?
Very likely. Send me the place, or a scan of a map you own, and I will check the detail and copyright and send you a proof before anything is printed. Custom shades take about 4 weeks.
Can I send you my own original map?
Yes. I scan it at high resolution and post the original back to you, insured, unharmed. The shade gets the copy.
Care
How do I clean a map shade?
Dust it with a soft, dry paintbrush or a lint roller. Do not use water or cleaning sprays on the shade. Walnut bases like a little furniture wax once a year.
Orders
How long will my lamp take?
Ready-to-ship lamps leave within 3 business days; made-to-order lamps within 2 to 3 weeks. The details are on the Shipping & Returns page.
Can I send a lamp as a gift?
Yes. Add a gift note at checkout and I will leave the receipt out of the box and tuck in a handwritten card instead.
Do you sell wholesale?
To a small number of independent shops and interior designers. Get in touch and tell me about your shop.