Many of the lamp designs available using the WordenSystem™
are composite reproductions of antique lamp shades made around
the turn of the century. The majority of these old shades were
made of opaque opal (opalescent glass). If you want to portray
the early 1900 look this type of glass is available today. The
opal glass you select should obscure the light source,
source, giving an evenly diffused glow. Opal glass has a marbleized
appearance. Opal stained glass is available in a wide selection
of opaque colors. The opals show show color in relfected
light; cathedral stained glass does not show its color
unless light is transmitted through it.
Hints to achieve a more professional look. Hold the glass to a
light to bring out the true color as the light is transmitted
through it. It is impossible to judge by the outward appearance
how opaque opal will appear when illuminated. Opalescent glass
has many layers of color and color combinations throughout. Opal
stained glass usually varies in color when manufactured. There
are shades and whorls of various mixed colors. It is important
to purchase enough glass from the same sheet or batch to complete
your project.
Try to achieve similiarity of appearnace in each
leaf, flower, petal, background piece in each repeat of
the design. For example, when selecting the glass for
a flower, there may be portions of your glass stock that are predominately
one color or shade. Cut each flower that will appear in the same
space in each repeat as nearly alike as you can from that section
of glass. Select darker shades of green for leaves under a certain
flower in each design repeat. In making green leaves try to have
a variety of natural light and dark greens, for depth and a life-like
appearance.
In the selection of background colors, pick out
light colored glass and arrange it near the top. Blend to darker
near the bottom or reverse the selection. Use a darker background
and lighter contrasting colors for the pattern or skirt or vice
versa by selecting light colored portions for the top and the
darker for the bottom or reverse the selection.
Before cutting, Arrange the pattern to portray the direction
of the flow of color grain such as all horizontal or vertical
the color grain in leaves, petals, stems, etc. The search for
glass and interpreting the color and color tones to the design
will give your finished shade a more life-like appearance with
a living glow of transmitted light.
There are many colors and types of glass other than opal that
can be used to construct shades. But for that antique look an
opaque opal glass is recommended.
For additional information about lamp shade glass see the "Lamps
of Tiffany" by Dr. Egon Neustadt.