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February 29, 2008

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Use Rawhide Country Lamp Shades For Rustic Decor

Rawhide country lamp shades have been popular for use in western home decor since after the great depression when women started to take an interest in home decorating and interior design. This was the case with not only kitchens, but living rooms and later family rooms and dens also. What is now called southwest decor and western style, as well as ranch style, progressed over time as the styles sprung from the necessary use of everyday items. The same was true with country style homes. As the wealthier class began to buy second homes called country homes, the working class began to use the same techniques in their home decorating also.

As antique style lighting fixtures and oil lamps gave way to the first rural style lamps, it was rawhide that was used for making lamp shades. Since then, it has been chosen as a great way to add southwestern style to home lighting and for lighting fixtures. If you truly like the handcrafted work and style of years ago, the natural texture and color tones of rawhide will certainly be part of what you want to use in your country kitchen and rustic design style. There are also other elements that will help you achieve the country style you see in designer homes.

For a country kitchen, consider the natural look of wood. Natural wood, with rough edges and surfaces, looks better when using it to create country style. If you have a large open room, dark woods work well whereas lighter tones look better in smaller areas. Rawhide country lamp shades look wonderful when combined with wooden accessories and work well in any area where a table lamp or southwestern style lamp would be placed. One fabulous aspect of rawhide shades is that they are available in light or dark as well as various colors to fit your particular color scheme.

As you consider incorporating rawhide country lamp shades in your kitchen, along with other rustic decor and accessories, it may not be imperative to purchase new lamps.
Rustic lamps are best but it is the leather lampshades that create the unique look. You may be able to use lamps you already own by just replacing the shade to give it the same southwestern style. Whether you choose to keep the lamps you already have or decide buy new ones, you will be excited at the change that takes place in your home.

There is no easier way to enhance beautiful southwest style in your home decorating than by using rustic lamp shades. Add a few country style accessories like Native pottery or tapestries along with the shades, and you will achieve a unique style that will have people talking about your beautiful home for a long time. You can find beautiful, decorative lamp shades in many colors and sizes in stores that sell southwestern and rustic style decorating accessories, or purchase them online. If you wish to bring a piece of the southwest to your home and create a true, rustic and southwestern design, do so by simply decorating with rawhide country lamp shades.

Try Rawhide Country Lamp Shades For Western Home Decorating

The unique look of rawhide country lamp shades for home decor has been popular since the end of the great depression when women first began to look at their homes in ways other than utilitarian. This was true with not only kitchens, but living rooms and later family rooms and dens as well. What is now called southwest decor and western style, as well as ranch style, progressed over time as the designs sprung from essential everyday items. The same transpired with country style homes. As the wealthier class started to have second homes called country homes, the working class started to use the same techniques in their decorating also.

As lanterns and oil lamps were exchanged for the first rural style lamps, it was rawhide that became one of the first materials to serve as a shade. Since then, it has been a popular choice in home lighting and for lighting fixtures. If you truly enjoy the handmade and rustic style of years ago, the natural texture and color tones of rawhide will definitely be part of what you want to include into your country kitchen and rustic interior design. There are also a few other things that will help you achieve the country style you see in designer magazines.

For a country kitchen, consider decorating with wood. Rough natural looking wood is best when using it to create country style. If you have a large room, dark woods can be used whereas light tones look better in smaller areas. Rawhide country lamp shades look great when used with wooden accessories and work well in any area where a floor lamp or southwestern style lamp would be placed. One very nice feature of rawhide shades is that they are obtainable in light or dark as well as many colors to fit your distinct color palette.

As you think about adding rawhide country lamp shades in your home, along with other rustic decorating accessories, it may not be necessary to purchase new lamps. Southwestern style lamps are preferable but it is the leather lampshades that add great style. You may be able to use lamps you already have by just replacing the shade to create the same rustic look. Whether you choose to keep the lamps you already have or decide buy new ones, you will be happy at the transformation that occurs in your home.

There is no easier way to include beautiful western style in your decorating than by decorating with rustic lamp shades. Include some country style accessories like Native rugs and tapestries along with the shades, and you will design a unique style that will have people talking about your beautiful home for a long time. It is easy to find quality, decorative lamp shades in a variety of colors and sizes in stores that sell southwestern and rustic style home decor, or purchase them online. If you wish to enhance western decor in your home and give it a unique, rustic and western style, do so by simply adding rawhide country lamp shades.



February 18, 2008

Use Antler Lamps To Create Unique Western Home Decor

Antler lamps are an excellent way to create western decor. Much more than average home lighting, antler lamps bring beautiful charm and character to any room. If you live in a rustic cabin or western style home, the wonderful beauty of antlers with their unique shapes and differences in natural color will give your home the authentic old west feel you are looking for.

Ranch style home owners as well as those constructing more sophisticated, modern houses have used antler lamps for decades as the ideal rustic lighting to enhance their western or southwestern home style. Because of the smooth curves of antler lamps and chandeliers there is a rustic charm inherent within the antlers that perfectly accompanies any form of western furniture. There is something special about antler lamps that combines all the elements and gives off a sophisticated rustic feel in the room. Antler lamps have a quality about them that definitely enhances balance and focus in any environment.

Antler lamps also go along with many other western elements in home decorating. In the Northwestern states or "north woods" as it is sometimes called, antlers may be fastened to snow shoes and adorned with rawhide lamp shades to use as one-of-a-kind wall sconces. The light colored wood and rawhide lacing on the shoe, in combination with the leather binding and luminous glow of the natural rawhide shade, make it a perfect combination. No matter if you choose to enhance the beauty of your antler lamp with rustic light rawhide shades or western style dark rawhide lampshades, the option is yours and the outcome will be fabulous.

Small antler chandeliers are fabricated from whitetail deer antlers while larger chandeliers sometimes have several tiers of huge elk antlers. Weather your area is large or small an antler chandelier will create western style.

In a small town in
Wyoming, the town square is adorned with arches made from Elk antlers. It is truly unique and you can achieve the same look with antler lamps in your home. Small lamps can be made from whitetail deer antlers while larger chandeliers may have tiers of elk antlers with rawhide lampshades. One of the most popular lamps is fashioned with moose antlers, unmistakable with their broad dark palms and dark rawhide lamp shades.

Every year, clubs and organizations such as the Boy Scouts will go looking for the prized sheds. If you ever discover antler sheds outdoors, it is a thrilling experience. Antler lamps bring that same style in your home and can change your setting's atmosphere in a unique way.

Antlers are acquired in different conditions that are graded like rare coins. The best quality is awarded an "A" grade. The grading system, indirectly, has to do with the amount of time the sheds lie on the ground before they are found. The longer they are left in the wild, the more they lose their quality. Newer antler sheds are a darker brown color. Sheds that are not discovered quickly will begin to fade in the sun until they are a chalky white. Another reason they loose their value is because of chew marks from small rodents and stains from wet ground or moss.

There are also various ways of making the antler lamps themselves. Some lamp makers use glue to hold the antlers together. Others may lash them together with rawhide lacing for a rustic look. And some of the most attractive antler lamps may include a combination of being glued, drilled and screwed together, with the holes sealed for a natural look. High end lamps will almost always feature rawhide lamp shades.

Each antler is slightly varied than any other, so each antler lamp is a unique treasure and works wonderfully for rustic lighting. Try antler lamps with rawhide lamp shades in your home to create true rustic charm and to give it that warm, inviting look and feel that everybody loves.


December 26, 2007

Hand Laced Rawhide lamp shades For Beautiful Western Decor & Rustic Atmosphere

Rustic lamps with rawhide lamp shades are among the most common rustic lamps you find in log homes and in rustic decorating or western decor. If you have lived in the west or visited western States, you know exactly what I mean.
Lamp shades made of rawhide are functional and very versatile, fitting into just about any home decor. Rawhide leather lamp shades are also found in colors to allow interior decorators to use any color pallet. Try adding rawhide shades in your decorating project and see for yourself how well they enhance your rustic design ideas.

When you prepare to purchase rawhide lamp shades you will want to decide how your lamp will be used. This is just a matter of choosing in which room you will be using it. For instance, you might be lighting a huge area or just brightening a dark corner of the room. Rawhide shades are also great when used with antler chandeliers and antler lamps since rawhide lampshades are a standard for rustic style lighting. From small chandelier lamp shades with attached bulb adaptors for candelabra bulbs or sconces to big accent lamps or floor lamps, rawhide shades work wonderfully for southwestern style home lighting.

When you use rawhide lampshades for home lighting, you are going to really be impressed by the warm atmosphere created by the lamps light coming through the stretched rawhide. This is how rawhide shades work to create that inviting feel. It is a balanced combination of color and texture that causes that warm glow. While it may not be the focus of your room, it will certainly add some character to the space.

When using raw hide lamp shades for reading you will probably want to utilize a larger lamp and lampshade that can be used to give off light from behind and above the person reading. This allows for the most comfortable reading environment. Sconce lamp shades also allow for correct reading light and rawhide shades come in just the right size for your reading and decorating needs.

Remember, when you are deciding on the lighting for your home, the light from rawhide accent lamp shades will allow you to filter the bright glare and capture the beauty of the light while using it where you need it. Light rawhide, sometimes called southwestern lamp shades, lets the maximum light shine through while dark colored rawhide shades, called western lamp shades, are more subtle producing a charcoal or smoke color when the lamp is turned on.

One of the greatest things about the rawhide lamp shades offered online is that they work with so many different types of lamps including rustic lamp styles as well as traditional ones. Like the sought after antler lamp with a rawhide leather lamp shade, they also look great on desk lamps or wooden lamps. Iron lamps with rawhide shades are another very popular choice in lighting accessories for rustic decor.

There is really no need to make big changes if you own more traditional style lamps. It is a rawhide shade that is enhancing the rustic look and feel which is why professional decorators love designing with them. You can use rawhide with traditional lamps and achieve a very nice southwestern feel.

The variations of size and color lend these lamp shades to be used in almost any environment where you want to bring out the rustic character or are enhancing a room in what has been termed rustic chic style. Just as appropriate in the living room, family room or den as well as bedroom or study, rawhide shades can be used in just one area or used to give a southwestern theme throughout your whole house.

Popular as table lamps as well as on bed stands or on floor lamps and chandeliers, lampshades can make a dramatic statement and bring a unique charm to any room. Purchasing rawhide lamp shades online is easy and fast and often saves you a lot of time and money. Using rawhide in your home is an investment in tranquility and peace that you will enjoy forever.

If you love the rustic decorating style of the southwest, or want to enjoy your own four season Arizona room or include the Native American style of New Mexico, you will love enhancing your rustic decor with rawhide lamp shades.

Continue reading "Hand Laced Rawhide lamp shades For Beautiful Western Decor & Rustic Atmosphere" »

September 30, 2007

Characteristics of Good Rawhide Lamp Shades

Several years ago we began making rawhide lamp shades and selling them on the internet.  Since those early days we have learned a lot about rawhide lampshades and have had the opportunity to help others also understand rawhide.  There are reasons why it is sometimes loose or tight.  And then, there is the care.  What is best to condition rawhide shades; and how do you do it?  After all, you want to protect your investments in rustic lamps, lighting and home furnishings. 

When it is time to start that Arizona room project or bring in the western flavor to your space, it will be rawhide lamp shades that you will want because of their rustic design and functionality.  Since shades made of leather and rawhide are also available in colors, they are one of the easiest ways to set the rustic decor of your room.

In choosing a rawhide lamp shade you want to use only lamp shades made with goat skin rawhide.  It is goatskin that has the unique stretching qualities and translucency that make them the lampshade of choice.  You will also want to insure that craftsman used heavy metal frames.  The reason for this is that rawhide contracts or tightens in times of heat and dryness.  It can be so strong that it will cause a regular frame to bend.

There are a few things to consider when your rawhide shade arrives.  As mentioned, rawhide tightens when heated or dried.  It also expands or loosens when humidity is present making the environment of the shade is very important.  When your shade arrives, it may appear to have loose hide or there may be ripples in the hide.  This is normal as the shipping experience can be one that is very humid.  It may have been routed through a thunderstorm or humid warehouse.  The packaging will retain the humidity and cause the hide to loosen.  But once it is put into service the heat from the bulb and air will quickly tighten it.

This brings us to the other extreme, over heating.  Because heat causes the rawhide to tighten it is possible to overheat the hide causing it to split.  While this is a natural reaction to environment, there are a few things that you can do.  Don’t use a regular incandescent bulb which creates excessive heat.  Instead use a compact fluorescent bulb for the same wattage of light with a fraction of the heat.  Avoid placing the shade in direct sunlight of the heat radiated by the sun through a window.  And in the winter, be careful of heat ducts and very dry rooms.  Many people don’t realize that air conditioning can also dry the air in a room too.  And probably one of the biggest mistakes is to leave the shades in a closed up room.  When closing a cabin or summer cottage you can create a hot, dry environment.

Caring for rawhide lamp shades is easy.  A little common sense goes a long way, but even with the best of care rawhide will wear out because of the constant expanding and contracting.  You can help increase the life of rawhide lampshades with regular conditioning.  People have tried many different ideas to extend the life of shades.  Some people spray the shades with a coat of clear poly urethane to seal the pores and lock the rawhide in place.  This does seem to work but the polyurethane has a very strong odor and also may be flammable.  Others have used a variety of creams, lotions and oils.  Because rawhide although not tanned is animal skin, it can be helped and hurt by the same types of things that affect our own skin. 

From our experience, the best course of action to for rawhide lamp shade care is to condition regularly with neatsfoot oil.  It seems to have unique qualities unlike other oils.  Along with the use of fluorescent bulbs this can dramatically affect the life of the shade in a positive way.

The interval between conditioning varies according to use and environment.  Arizona and Colorado seem to need conditioning more frequently, but anytime the shade becomes dried out it should be conditioned.  It would be nice to be able to say once a month or every six months but it is better to check the shade and regularly condition it.  If you keep these thoughts in mind when planning your southwestern style room or western design you will get the most out of your rawhide lamp shades.

learn more at the Mission Del Rey website 

September 12, 2007

The Modern Way To Measure Rawhide Lamp Shades Properly

What in the world are you talking about? That might be the question that comes to mind when ordering western rawhide lamp shades or replacement lamp shades. It can be extremely exasperating because various people fit lampshades by different standards.

The whole ordering process is compounded by telephone discussions and internet ordering. If you realize how you should measure a shade to get the proper fit and also communicate the right size, you’re going to prevent problems and receive the lamp shade you are expecting.

If the shade is rawhide or not isn't important, there are important tips you should use to correctly measure and order a shade and also the proper description that will allow you to insure that the person receiving your order is on the same track. We fabricate custom rawhide lamp shades for rustic western lamps and southwestern home furnishings. Because we encounter this situation all the time we have some tips that anyone can use to insure the right look for a lamp, even without seeing the lamp and shade and lamp together.

The right way to measure:
1. You will need to have three different measurements, bottom diameter, top diameter and height. The bottom diameter is always measured across the bottom of the lamp shade. The top diameter is measured across the top opening of the shade. The height of a lampshade should be measured straight up and down vertically, not along the slant.

At this point is where the challenge starts. When relaying the measurements various individuals and companies will use the three dimensions in various order, it's not uniform, so be careful that you are not confusing the bottom and height measurements for example.

2. The height has to be measured straight up and down, but some stores will measure along the slant. These two measurements can vary or be quite different and may make the finished shade to be distorted if confused. Be sure to make clear how the height has been measured. We have noticed that many people that measure the slant rather than the shade height refer to it as the lampshade length rather than height.

A good Tip On Height Measurement:
The reason you should measure height up and down, vertically, is that the height measurement of your lamp from bulb socket base to top of harp is always the minimum vertical height you will want to cover the electrical parts with the shade.

A good Adjusting Height Tip:
When considering a stock replacement shade, the lamp's overall height and look can be adjusted. The wire harp that holds the shade in position above the bulb is simple to replace. That can be great news when a standard shade is
too short to look right. In place of having to order a custom shade you are able to change the harp that can make the shade to sit lower on the lamp to give you the desired look.

lampshade Mounting Type:
The most common shade mount has a center bar across the top with a center hole for the harp mount or a washer centered by three supports that attach to the top rim of the shade. Both types allow the shade to be secured to the harp. Some small lamps and chandeliers don't use a harp but rather use a bulb clip adapter to attach directly to the bulb. A bulb clip is simply two wire loops that are attached to the shade's center bar and grip the bulb.

It’s easy to add a clip to any regular shade to allow it to be placed over the bulb. Chandelier lamp shades almost always have built-in bulb clips made for the small flame or candelabra type bulbs. Lamp shades used as hanging lamps can use an uno mount which has a center ring large enough for the bulb socket to pass through. These also are used on some table lamps. You can use a bulb clip on a replacement shade instead of an uno mount.

You find these tips useful on your future rawhide lamp shade or replacement lampshade project and you will certainly to measure, order and receive the right size lamp shade the without any trouble for fabric or rawhide lamp shades.

April 11, 2007

Use Rawhide Lamp Shades For A Western Touch

 

Rawhide lamp shades add just the right western decorating touch you need for a rustic make over.   For many people, western or southwest decorating is something that they love but don’t have an idea of how to bring into their own home.  For some reason it seems like it is not possible to bring the old west home.  Or perhaps the question is; where do I begin with rustic decorating? 

In reality, adding rustic flavor to your home with rawhide lamp shades is easy, functional and doesn’t have to cost a fortune.  With the introduction of just a few key elements any home can have the western ranch look, the rustic appeal of a cabin or the warm feel of a southwest pueblo style.   Home decorating with rawhide lamp shades can make any room come alive with rustic cowboy style.  You don’t even have to have every piece in place to begin a dramatic affect.  Just add a few touches around your home as you can to create a great new look.   

Rawhide lamp shades will set the focal points around the room and give you the foundation necessary to add other elements.  Vintage lamps make a great statement but you can also us wrought iron lamps.  If your budget allows, use antler lamps and chandeliers for one of the most classic looks in western lodge and home décor.  You can also make your own lamps from drift wood or pottery.  But, if you can’t add new lamps, chances are that rawhide shades will work with your existing lamps too.  Lampshades made of stretched rawhide will really add to that cowboy feel even with traditional lamps.  The most important thing is to keep the design functional. 

Along with rustic lighting and the warm glow of rawhide lampshades around the room, add style and color with woven Indian style area rugs.  If you already have hardwood floors, you will be well on your way to a great western feel.  But a wooden floor while beautiful can have a cold empty feel.  Using colorful hand woven wool rugs, table runners and place mats will warm the room and heighten the western theme.  And if you have wall to wall carpeting, the wool southwest rugs will work perfectly to transform your décor.  Be on the look out for Navajo rugs and weavings or at least reproductions of classic Native American patterns.  Try some on the wall too as tapestries for a rich full look.

With rustic lamps, rawhide lamp shades and floor and walls adorned, look at the windows.  If possible leave them uncovered.  If you don’t already have rustic wood trimmed windows, try adding a rough wood plank across the top to give to affect of a wood beam like used in southwestern pueblos.  If you have to use window treatments for privacy, try a wooden valance with simple straight panel curtains.

Finish with other rustic elements like wrought iron and wood accessories.  Think about door knobs or cabinet and drawer pulls in western styles and some log furniture pieces.  Other unique accessories will be stoneware and painted Indian pottery.   And, one of the most basic techniques to add color and texture is to place a western throw blanket over the back of a chair or end of a couch.  Rawhide lamp shades work especially well in the bedroom along with southwest bedspreads.  Lay a cowhide down as a rug and your new western look will be complete.

March 10, 2007

Rawhide Lamp Shades Create a Southwest or Western Living Room

There is nothing like rawhide lamp shades with their hand stitching and warm tone to make your living room the rustic display of southwest style you’re looking for.  The main features of a western or southwestern living room that brings it life is the lighting and lampshades used along with a few other elements.  If it is a rustic look you are after, the character of natural rawhide will add that look and feel with rustic charm.  Many people go over board when all that is really needed are a few classic focal points in the room and you will be amazed by what a difference rawhide lampshades make.

If you are starting from scratch, you are in for a lot of fun shopping for the various new pieces you will use, but it is also not necessary.  Many styles that may exist in your home décor now may work just fine with southwest style or western tradition.  Your lamps will probably work fine if your budget won’t allow a complete change.  Remember it is the rustic rawhide lamp shade that will catch the eye and make the difference between modern and rustic or country style.

Rawhide color should be considered as you make the transformation to the look you want.  For southwest style it is best to use light colored rawhide shades where as western decorating looks very nice with dark rawhide.  For country décor, either works well and you can even use dyed rawhide shades which are specially suited to arts and crafts style.  If you decide to go with southwest or western shades you should use the same style throughout the room for consistency.   In a country or more colorful setting you can actually mix the dyed colors or red, green and brown rawhide within the same room.  Consider both floor lamps and table or desk lamps with rawhide lamp shades to carry the eye across the room at different levels to tie the theme together.  Using rawhide shades in this way will add an interesting appeal.
As with any style, lighting sets the mood so use individual lamps rather than a single overhead light.  Then, alter the look of the lighting by using different wattage bulbs in different areas, or use dimmers to achieve the warm soft look so popular in cottages, cabins and log homes.  And remember, your rustic lamps will naturally set focal points in the room so use a rawhide lamp and shade wherever light is needed for function.  By doing this your living room will have a rich natural character that sets the stage for the wonderful southwest rugs, western runners or Indian area rugs and throws as well as other elements you introduce.

You will enjoy experimenting with your lamps and because rawhide lamp shades are natural, each one is unique and can add to the room in a special way as it filters light in varying degrees.  Your family and friends will appreciate the rich look and you will enjoy a simple, comfortable quality of life everyday with handcrafted rawhide lamp shades.

Copyright 2007 Mission Del Rey

November 19, 2006

Use Rawhide Lamp Shades for A Southwest Bedroom

 

 

 

Rawhide lamp shades are what can turn your bedroom into a designed showplace of southwest style.  By accessorizing your bedroom with rawhide shades you are infusing the key elements of the decorating process.  It is the natural character of rawhide that captures the essence of southwestern design and adds the rustic beauty to your room.  With just a few changes to your lamps and lampshades you too will find the warm inviting feel of a southwestern bedroom.

 Bedroom with Pottery Lamps & Rawhide Shades

You might be surprised to find how many different types or styles work with southwest design.  For example, you might find that you already have all the lamps you need and the addition of rawhide lamp shades makes them work perfectly.  By displaying them differently with rustic shades, many lamps can be transformed from traditional to rustic style.  It’s not so much the lamp as it is the shade that displays the rustic texture you want.  Get creative with an old lamp by adding rawhide shades and watch the room come to life.

It is best to match your rawhide lamp shades in your bedroom by color.  For southwest style bedroom lighting, a light bleached rawhide shade is the color of choice.  Draw your bedroom together with rawhide floor lamp shades that match the shades on your bedside lamps and any table lampshades that you might have in the room.  Different heights and diameters of rawhide shades are also very attractive and add an interesting sense of drama to the room.

Lighting is a key element in the bedroom. You will want to bee able to change the mood of the room.  For romantic times you may want to use subtle lighting, but you will also want bright lighting for dressing.   Most bedrooms are under lighted, or poorly lighted by using one overhead light.  This causes a lot of glare and doesn’t have the mood creating properties of individual lamps.  By using several different lamps in your bedroom, you can create focal points in different areas of the room for different moods, and use higher and lower wattage bulbs to set the right intensity of light.  Natural rawhide lamp shades create an ambiance that will coordinate the southwest theme that you want to create.

Weather you use your existing lamps or purchase new rustic lamps for your bedroom, the key to having the correct look in the bedroom is to layer the lighting.  In other words, create lighting zones that give you the ability to create areas of light that are suited to a specific function.  One great trick to enhance your new or newly created rustic lamps is to use a dimmer switch.  Because rawhide lamp shades are a natural product, different lighting moods can be set by allowing more or less light to filter through the rawhide.  Another nice idea is to use remote controls, timers and automatic switches to turn light on or off in certain areas.

Bedroom lighting is important and rawhide lamp shades will add a quality of life through a beautiful warm atmosphere that you will enjoy day after day.  And along with that also comes the function that allows lighting to serve you better.  Lighting affects us on many levels and natural rawhide lamp shades will help you create the harmonious and peaceful bedroom that you need.

You can use lamps with rawhide shades in many locations around your bedroom, beside the bed, on a desk, as floor lamps and indirect lighting.  Remember to use separate controls for reading lamps and to place the lamps so the light is projected from behind the reader to eliminate glare and shadowing.

Rawhide lamp shades will work miracles on your rustic bedroom makeover.  We have been discussing southwest style, but rawhide shades are also available in dark western hide for ranch or lodge décor and in unique colors for country décor.  Each type of rawhide has its own special lighting characteristics.  So weather you want to lighten your bedroom, darken it, or add rustic color, you will find inspiration in hand crafted rawhide lamp shades.

October 18, 2006

How to Use Rawhide Lamp Shades with Rustic Lamps

20" dia. Southwest Style Rawhide Lamp Shade

Rawhide lamp shades can be used as replacement lamp shades on your existing lamps or as the perfect accessory to your new rustic lamps.  Each rawhide lamp shade is handmade and the shade of choice for southwestern table lamps, vintage or antique lamps or western floor lamps.  Old world craftsmanship and the natural material characteristics of rawhide allow rustic lamps to create perfect ambiance.   If you want rustic lamps that hang from the ceiling such as antler chandeliers, rawhide chandelier lamp shades allow light to filter through the rawhide.  Mini lamp shades or clip on lamp shades have a built-in bulb clip at the top of the shade which allows the lampshade to rest directly on the bulb to give your rustic lamps a custom look.  Rustic lamp shades made of rawhide work with  cowboy, Native American Indian lamps, log homes, cabins and cottages as well as any ranch, lodge or country décor and are the staple of western and southwest decor.  You can find a full assortment of sizes and colors at Mission Del Rey where stock or custom rawhide shades are available in 16 sizes and 5 colors.  You will love the glow of rawhide lamp shades.

For southwest décor and lighting, use bleached rawhide which has a consistent light cream color with occasional brown, gold and rust colored highlights and a warm glow when illuminated. The light rawhide of southwestern lamp shades is a warm accompaniment to other southwest elements.  If you have Indian pottery or Indian drums on the wall or other leather or raw hide near lamp shade they pick up the color tones and carry the theme throughout the room.  Light rawhide lamp shades look best with light or natural colored rustic wood furniture and accessories such as kiva ladders.  Our southwest rawhide shades are an excellent example of skill and lamp shade craftsmanship.

If you love western lamps, design and décor try using Mission Del Rey’s dark western rawhide lamp shades.  Made with natural dark goat skin rawhide, western lamp shades have the look you want.  These lamp shades have a rich variety of color tones in a very rustic appearance that varies in tone on the rawhide.  Lamp shades full of character, western rawhide shades are less consistent in color so you see the natural light and dark coloring come through.  Western rawhide yields a dark smoked look that is very unique and allows light to pass through. Laced with matching dark rawhide stitching, they have a warm golden brown glow.  When a room has a lot of dark leather furniture or dark wood, the dark western rawhide lampshades will pull the room together to complete the perfect space.

When decorating or lighting a home with colorful country or arts and crafts style, consider dyed rawhide lamp shades.  Dyed rawhide is also fantastic in cabins and cottages or anyplace where a touch of color is needed or for designer lamp shades and decoration lampshades while also building a rustic theme.  Skillfully made dyed rawhide lamp shades use premium quality rawhides and undergo a dual process, lightened then tinted with dye to create the colored shades hide.  Colored rawhide lamp shades reveal unique grain patterns that are further enhanced when illuminated.  The resulting red rawhide, green rawhide and brown rawhide dyed lamp shades each have a unique colorful glow.

For a complete or finished look, use rawhide lamp shades on all of your chandeliers, table lamps or floor lamps as well as and wall sconces or candelabras you may have.  For complete information visit missiondelrey.com.  By all means, if you are fortunate enough to own custom antler lamps or wrought iron lamps, dress them with fabulous hand laced rawhide lamp shades.

This article may be reprinted if an active html link to http://www.missiondelrey.com is included.

Continue reading "How to Use Rawhide Lamp Shades with Rustic Lamps" »

August 18, 2006

Wholesale Rawhide Lamp Shades Or Indian Drums

It's your choice!  wholesale rawhide lamp shades or indian drums wholesale, which will it be?  The choice is yours.  We have offered rustic lamp shades made of rawhide for several years, but just a few months ago we began a gold subscription plan.  Merchants can buy wholesale or below wholesale as they choose.  For a low $9.99 monthly subscription, they receive an additional 10% off the wholesale prices.  And now our gold merchant program offers Indian hoop drums at the same great deal.  If you are a merchant, lamp maker of designer, register today for wholesale purchases and also subscribe for the additional 10% discount. http://www.missiondelrey.com/wholesale  sales@missiondelrey.com

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July 08, 2006

Rawhide Lamp Shades

Rawhide lamp shades have been our main product line for rustic lighting and western lamps for the last three years.  The most popular has always been the southest style shade in light rawhide.  About a year ago we introduced rawhide lamp shades in natural dark rawhide which took off in popularity for wrought iron lamps and wooden table lamps.

Now, this year we have introduced dyed rawhide lamp shades in red, green and brown rawhide.  Dyed rawhide makes country lamp shades with a warm glow and look great in cabins and log homes.  If you desire a rustic style, you can achieve it with rawhide lampshades even with out changing your lamps.

If you haven't yet discovered the latest trend in rustic decor, take a look at rawhide lamp shades.

June 22, 2006

Rawhide Lamp Shades -an overview

Rawhide Lamp Shades

Go rustic with genuine rawhide lamp shades, the easiest way to develop a country or rustic style. Even if your current lamps and furniture are more traditional or modern, rawhide replacement shades will set the tone of your space and bring the warm country or rustic flavor that creates such a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere. Rawhide chandelier lamp shades can create a natural focal point for your room and draw elements together as the eye finds rawhide table lamp shades and floor lamp shades around the room. Mini lamp shades or clip on lamp shades are also perfect for a candelabra style lamp or wall sconce. And if you have a unique lamp that requires a special shade, rawhide lamp shades can be custom fitted to meet your specific needs.  Rawhide lampshades are perfect for a log home or cabin as well as country, ranch or rustic decor.  There is no substitute for genuine rawhide “raw hide” lamp shades for southwestern lamps, antler lamps, wall sconces, chandeliers and home lighting and rustic western lamps. Rawhide shades for rustic lighting compliment cottage, lodge style, rustic chic and rustic furniture like nothing else can.


How Genuine Rawhide Lamp Shades are Created

Rawhide lamp shades are made by hand with old world craftsmanship.  Skilled leather workers with years of experience carefully form and lace each shade with genuine rawhide.  Rawhide lamp shades are crafted with sturdy welded frames.  Premium quality goatskin rawhides are the desired hides because of their strength and translucency.   Each hide is hand stretched, slowly sun dried, then hand stitched to add a sense of rustic beauty.  When a lamp is turned on with a quality rawhide lamp shade in place, its translucent character comes to life. The shade allows light to emanate from within to create a natural atmosphere.  Stretched rawhide lamp shades are works of art that will make a dramatic affect on your room and furnishings. 

Southwest style rawhide lamp shades are made with bleached rawhide for a consistent color tone.  A light creamy tan color, they are perfect for southwestern décor and compliment other southwestern elements such as pottery, carved wooden bowls, Indian rugs and rustic furniture.  Their light color opens up a room and provides excellent light and texture.  They are excellent for table lamps, sconces and chandeliers, log homes, cabins and cottages.

Western style rawhide lamp shades are wonderful accessories for western lamps and décor.  Made with natural dark rawhide, they are a unique dark charcoal or smoked brown color and create a dark warm glow.  Western rawhide varies more in tone from one hide to another with natural light and dark coloring visible in the hide.  Western lampshades are perfect for log homes and cabins as well as ranch or lodge styles, complimenting dark wood tables, leather furniture, tac, floor lamps and cowboy accessories.
 

Country Style rawhide lamp shades are very unique, hosting rich warm colors and grain pattern.  Using the same hides as southwestern or western, color is added to dye the rawhide to a variety of colors, the most popular being dark brown, red and green.  Called country lamp shades because of their color, they actually look great with southwest and western decor as well as any country or rustic setting.  Dark and rustic by day, they are warm and rich by night.

Rawhide Lamp Shade Care & Use

Rawhide lamp shades can easily last several years.   Our experience with rawhide lamp shades has identified various threats to shade life and techniques for care and use.

Rawhide is "raw hide" constantly expanding and contracting with heat and humidity.  When wet or humid it loosens and when heated or dry it tightens.  Heat can cause the hide to tighten until it finally tears.  Smaller chandelier lamp shades are at greater risk because of the close proximity of the bulb to the shade, while larger shades last longer because the heat can more easily escape.  Usually it is a combination of things that can cause splitting, like too high of wattage bulb, or direct sunlight, extended use causing high heat or placement near a heat duct or not conditioning the hide or not frequently enough.  By avoiding these pitfalls, shade life is greatly increased.

The best results are achieved by regularly conditioning the shades.  Weekly or monthly applications may be needed during certain times of the year depending on the dryness of your location.  Shades in Arizona and Colorado for example need more frequent conditioning.  Air conditioning dries the air causing the same result as heat.  Along with regular conditioning, using a compact fluorescent bulb rather than a traditional incandescent bulb is the single most important tip to prolong shade life.  Modern fluorescent bulbs have very nice light and produce a fraction of the heat, while saving energy too.

It is also important to realize that rawhide is animal skin and wears out sooner or later even with care.  Most people who use rawhide shades do so because they like the rustic look and there is no equal for rawhide.  So, we accept the fact that replacement will be a part of ownership and enjoying rawhide.

How to measure and order the right size rawhide lamp shade

The right rawhide lamp shade can make a perfect lamp. But the wrong size shade can make a beautiful lamp look out of balance. And ordering the wrong size lampshade is inconvenient and expensive.  Follow this simple procedure to help make the right choice before you order.

First, we need to understand how lampshades are measured. You will need three measurements, bottom diameter, top diameter and height. The height of a shade should be measured straight up and down vertically…not along the slant.

Measuring Tip #1: The reason we measure height up and down, “vertically” is that the height measurement of you lamp from bulb socket base to top of harp is probably the minimum vertical height you will want to cover with your shade.

Measuring Tip #2: The height of your lamp can be adjusted with a shorter or taller harp to be able to use a standard lampshade rather than ordering custom rawhide lamp shades in many cases.


Now, here is the trick to ordering the right shade. You probably have an idea of the approximate size, so simply consult a list of rawhide lamp shades and select the one you are considering. Each shade’s measurements should be listed as described above.

Next, make a simple two-dimensional “flat silhouette” pattern the size of the shade out of paper or cardboard. For example, use the lower edge of the cardboard for the base line. Measure up the height of the shade and draw a horizontal line parallel to the base line which will represent the top edge of the shade. Now draw a vertical line straight up and down from base line or to the top edge line. If you imagine the base line, vertical line and top edge line as the capital letter “I” you are on the right track.

Then, mark the top and bottom dimensions of the shade on your pattern so that you get the correct slant for the edge of the shade. From the center line measure and mark the top diameter of the shade. If the top diameter is 5” then measure to the left and right of the center line along the top edge line 2.5” on both sides and make a mark. Those points are the top corners of your pattern. Repeat along the baseline using the shade’s bottom diameter. If it seems confusing, it’s really not, but very simple and quick. Click on the image at the top of the page to enlarge the shade measuring graphic for a visual aid.

Finally, If you will cut out the pattern and have someone hold it in place over the lamp, you will be able to step back and look. Even though it is flat, you will be able to get a feel for how the shade will look on your lamp and order with confidence.

It’s not full proof but it is a quick and easy way to make sure that you are on the right track in your shade size selection. This simple idea has helped save a lot of aggravation and money over the years and we trust it will benefit you too as you enjoy genuine rawhide lamp shades.

May 22, 2006

Rawhide Lamp Shades & Rusic Lamps for Big Impact

Are you interested in unique southwest styles or western home decor?  The most dramatic affect can be achieved simply by changing lamps.  And, simpler yet, changing lamp shades.  Give it a try to see the difference.  If you love the warmth and comfort that rustic lamps and decor provide, but don't want to invest in all new furniture, upgrade to rawhide lamp shades or soft leather lamp shades and watch your room come t life.  You will instantly be carried to that rustic mood by the unique color tones and textures of the natural hides.

Rawhide lamp shades are affordable, high quality lampshades crafted with genuine rawhide and hand stitched lacing to create a rustic chic style for southwestern lamps or western lighting.  Lamp shades made of rawhide are also perfect decoration or  replacement lamp shades for western lamps, antler lamps, wall sconces and chandeliers.  From small clip on, mini lamp shades for chandelier lamp shades and candelabras to large table and floor lamp shades, there is a size for every style.  For western furniture and decor you want to see our natural dark rawhide shades and colorful country lamp shades.
 

Rawhide lamp shades are a must for log home lighting, cabins or cottage as well as ranch, lodge lighting and any country or primitive decor.  Along with our light, bleached southwest style shades, rawhide lamp shades are also available in four other unique colors. Rawhide shades will add a rich warm glow to your favorite room.  We also offer soft pig skin leather lamp shades, in nine designer shade colors, natural, wine, green, red, gold, brown, black, desert sand and ranch rust, that can handle high heat applications and never need conditioning.
 

Select any rawhide or leather lamp shade with our rustic lamps.  We offer unique, authentic southwest Indian pottery lamps with decorative rawhide accent lacing, perfect for desk lamps or bedside lamps and wooden Indian drum table lamps as well as hand forged wrought iron western lamps that have a dark rust colored patina.  You will love our lamps for your special home lighting needs. 

May 21, 2006

Rawhide Replacement Lamp Shades for a Rustic Look

Rawhide lamp shades make excellent replacement lamp shades.  Available in several colors, rawhide shades are a designers dream.  If you want a southwest look or western style, rawhide lampshades are rustic, yet beautiful.

For a more refined look that will accent designer lamps and decor, leather lamp shades are an excellant choice.  Great color and texture make pig skin shades perfect for a cabin or lodge and are one of the hottest items in log home lighting.

So weather it is on the ranch or in your southwestern room rawhide and leather lamp shades will give you the warm country feel you want. 

 

April 12, 2006

Dyed Rawhide Lamp Shades in Dark Brown

We have had a lot of good comments on our dyed brown rawhide lamp shades and have decided to begin stocking them.  We have had dyed rawhide lamp shades available for some time but are now making them available to the public as well as wholesalers.  Along with our southwestern light rawhide shades and our dark western rawhide lampshades, the dyed brown shades will be stocked in all of our regular sizes from chandelier shade size to table lamp and floor lamp sizes. 

The dyed rawhide shades have a uniform medium to dark brown color that is more consistant than our western rawhide.  They are a beautiful rustic shade that produces a unique orange red glow and shows off the grain patterns greated by the hide.

We're in the process of adding the dyed shades to our website now.  In the mean time, just let us know if you would like to have them.  We will also be carrying the dyed lampshades in red and green in lessor quantities.  You will love them. 

 

 

Dyed Rawhide Lamp Shades in Dark Brown

We have had a lot of good comments on our dyed brown rawhide lamp shades and have decided to begin stocking them.  We have had dyed rawhide lamp shades available for some time but are now making them available to the public as well as wholesalers.  Along with our southwestern light rawhide shades and our dark western rawhide lampshades, the dyed brown shades will be stocked in all of our regular sizes from chandelier shade size to table lamp and floor lamp sizes. 

The dyed rawhide shades have a uniform medium to dark brown color that is more consistant than our western rawhide.  They are a beautiful rustic shade that produces a unique orange red glow and shows off the grain patterns greated by the hide.

We're in the process of adding the dyed shades to our website now.  In the mean time, just let us know if you would like to have them.  We will also be carrying the dyed lampshades in red and green in lessor quantities.  You will love them. 

 

 

April 08, 2006

Rawhide Lamp Shades for Southwest Decor

Rawhide Lamp Shades for Southwest Decor

Rawhide lamp shades are one of the easiest  ways to upgrade a room for southwest decor.  Rustic rawhide lamp shades make such a dramatic affect that they make it seem like you added much more to the space.  And if you like western lamps or decor, rawhide leather fits naturally into the ranch style. 

For several years we have been offering light bleached rawhide lamp shades for southwest lamps and decor.  About a year ago, we introduced our dark rawhide lamp shades for western lamps and decor.  Both rawhide styles are offered in small chandelier shade size up to large floor lamp size in incements of 2" from 4" to 24". 

Now, this year we are offering rustic dyed rawhide lamp shades in dark brown, green and red rawhide in all of the same popular sizes.  Dyed rawhide shades are perfect for designer and decoration lamp shades for any country ranch log home or cabin as well as lodge decor.  We are also working on two new lines of leather lamp shades in high quality full grain pig skin in beautiful southwestern ranch rust and southwest desert sand.  

Take a look at all of our rawhide leather lamp shades and find the right one for your needs.  http://www.missiondelrey.com     

March 04, 2006

Choose Rawhide Lamp Shades for Antler Lamps

Antler Lamps have no equal.  Animal lovers and outdoorsmen alike love natural antlers.  Antler lamps and chandeliers are prized possessions for southwest lighting and western décor.  Antler sheds as they are know are the antlers that the animal “sheds” naturally each spring.  Each year in places like Jackson Hole, WY antler sheds are gathered to be used for what has come to be called antler art, lamps, furniture etc. 

Some of the most common and less expensive antler lamps are made with white tail deer sheds.  Another very popular and beautiful antler lamp is made with mule deer sheds which are slightly larger and darker in tone.  The forks and tines or points of the antlers are used to give each lamp its own unique look.  As each antler is slightly different, so the lamp made from the antlers is a one-of a-kind treasure.  The best quality antler lamps are made using techniques of drilling and patching that show no visible hardware or wiring.

Antler lighting is absolutely fabulous for rustic lighting and a must for log homes, cabins and ranches.  And if you enjoy southwestern lamps or western furniture, antler chandeliers will create the perfect focal point for your décor.  And the crowning affects for any antler lamp, sconce or chandelier is genuine rawhide lamp shades.  With their hand lacing and warm glow they perfectly match the antlers and can transform the ambiance of your room wherever you are located.

Some of the most striking antler chandeliers and lamps are made with moose and elk sheds.  They are not inexpensive but their larger size allows their use in some incredible designs, large floor lamps and huge chandeliers and antler furniture.

If you enjoy the out doors and rustic lighting, antler chandeliers, sconces and lamps with rustic lamp shades made of leather and rawhide will quickly become your most appreciated and enjoyed lighting fixtures.  With virtually no maintenance necessary, antlers are a win, win choice.

December 19, 2005

Secrets to Rawhide Lamp Shade Life

 

Rawhide Lamp Shade 20"
Mission Del Rey’s southwest rawhide lamp shades are works of art perfect for Cabin lighting and Lodge décor.  You don’t have to settle for paper or faux materials when genuine hand laced rawhide shades are not only beautiful and functional but affordable too.

 

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December 15, 2005

Rawhide Lamp Shades - How to Measure & Order the Right Size for your Lamp

The right rawhide lamp shade can make a perfect lamp. But the wrong size shade can make a beautiful lamp look out of balance. And ordering the wrong size lampshade is inconvenient and expensive. Make the right choice the first time.

Continue reading "Rawhide Lamp Shades - How to Measure & Order the Right Size for your Lamp" »