How To Best Light Our Lanterns (Candles vs. Fairy Lights vs. LED)
When it comes to creating a beautiful and inviting atmosphere in your home, lighting can make all the difference. Whether you are looking for a soft, subtle glow or a more dramatic, eye-catching display, decorative lanterns can help you create the perfect ambiance. Moroccan lanterns, in particular, are a popular choice amongst homeowners looking to add a bit of exotic décor to their living spaces. But what’s the best way to light these stunning lanterns?
In this blog post from LanternShop.com by Traders of Tamerlane, we’ll explore the best ways to light our metal and glass lanterns, as well as provide some tips on how to ensure your lanterns look their best. Read on to learn more and shop our authentic lanterns today!
Determine the Type of Lantern
The first step to lighting your lantern is to determine the type of lantern you have. At LanternShop.com, we offer a variety of Moroccan lanterns, in many different sizes and shapes. Depending on the type of lantern you have, there may be specific instructions on how to light it. For example, our smallest lanterns may not be suitable for votive candles, because the frame could get too hot to handle, or they simply wouldn't fit inside. Whereas for some of our largest designs the light of a single tea light would get lost, so a multi-wick candle, a group of smaller candles, or a brighter eclectic light source would be better suited.
Choose the Right Type of Lighting
Candles
The most traditional way to light Moroccan lanterns is by using candles. There is nothing quite like the warm and inviting glow of authentic candlelight - and whenever possible we recommend votive candles. Votives are small, free-standing candles that combine the long-burning duration of pillar candles with the smaller size of tea lights. Designed to be paired with glass votive holders. They fit easily into all but the smallest of our lanterns, and last up to 10 hours. To ensure your lanterns look their best, make sure to use votives that are the same size and color for a consistent, even glow. Additionally, be careful of scented candles as some can leave behind residue that can discolor the metal.
Fairy Lights / String lights
Fairy lights (also known as mini string lights) can be a great option for areas that don't allow open flame or when you just prefer a flameless glow. They are a long string (usually 4 - 8 feet) of very tiny LED lights. To create a beautiful effect, you can unfurl the lights into the peak of the lantern so the points of light spread out or, you can have the lights weaving into and out of the lantern for an even more dynamic display.
When shopping for fairy lights, try to be eco-conscious and choose lights with replaceable batteries. Many fairy lights are single-use and end up in the trash. This means making sure the design of the light allows for easy access to the batteries. For instance our fairy lights have a simple snap-fit compartment that easily opens. Other types may require you to unscrew very tiny screws to access the battery, which can be more difficult.
LED Lights
LED lights come in a huge variety of styles and types, from bulbs, to rope lights, to faux candle shapes, and many of them are remote controlled. They often allow you to adjust the brightness and color of the bulb, making it a great option if you are looking to add an easily changing light to your home. Some of the LED lights even come in designs that mimic real flames, making them an ideal choice if you want to create a cozy ambience in your living space without real fire While these lights are often brighter than traditional lighting options, they light often tends to have a more modern hue/color temperature.
Natural light
Sometimes you don't need a candle or light at all! It is hard to understate the beauty of a lantern in your home placed at just the right spot to capture the sun's natural light! For instance, a Moroccan glass lantern placed at or near a window makes the perfect suncatcher. This tends to work best with windows that are East or West facing, to take advantage of the sun's rays when they are lowest in the sky, but really any window is a great spot for one. Even better - most curtain rods are strong enough to support the weight of a lantern, so you likely already have a great way to display your lantern right in front of your window!
Adding Accessories
Once you've added your light source, you can also add a few accessories to your lanterns to give them a more dramatic look. Placing them beside light-colored walls can give a place for the shadow patterns to really stand out. Additionally, placing flat bottom lanterns on a mirror is an easy way to achieve a dramatic effect, and of course the best accessories are often other lanterns. Grouping by shape or making a rainbow of colors across the same lantern style is often a popular choice. Whatever you choose, make sure to keep the design simple and uncluttered for a more elegant look and of course for ANY flame-based lighting ALWAYS follow our candle safety rules
With the right lighting, your Moroccan lanterns will be the perfect addition to your home. Shop our authentic lanterns today!