If you are looking for a simple but effective way to upgrade the look and feel of your lamps? Then you must consider adding a finial. These are decorative pieces that fit on the top of the harp of a lampshade. It secures it in place and adds a unique touch to the overall design of a lamp.
They are often made of various materials such as metal, wood, glass, or ceramic and come in various shapes, sizes, and styles. This decorative piece can enhance the beauty of your lamps. In this blog, we'll discuss its history, uses, main purpose, and types, so go with the flow of this blog till the end.
The History and Uses of Finials
Finials have been used since ancient times in various cultures and regions. They have evolved to reflect the trends and preferences of different eras. It can be uncovered in ancient Greece and Rome.
Its first-ever prominent appearance seems to have occurred nearly 700 A.D. by Asian cultures at the tops of pagodas. These were primarily made out of stone, and their designs were heavily influenced by Buddhism.
In different countries, these decorative pieces are made from different materials and used for different purposes. Such as:
- In Japan, they were made of metal and featured different symbols such as wheels or spheres.
- In India, they are made of clay and have a lotus flower shape.
- In Thailand, they are made of wood and have a pointed shape.
- In Europe, they became popular during the Renaissance and Gothic periods, when they were used to adorn churches, cathedrals, and castles.
- In America, they were introduced by European settlers and were used to decorate various domestic and religious buildings.
They were also used to mark the boundaries of estates or properties or to indicate the rank or status of the owners. Moreover, to fasten lampshades, or to embellish clocks, spoons, or ceiling fans. These decorative pieces are not only used for lamps but also for other architectural or furniture elements. Such as roofs, spires, towers, bed posts, or curtain rods.
Purpose of Finials for Lamps
The main purpose of the finial is for decoration but they can also improve the stability and functionality of the objects they adorn. Here are some of the main purposes of finials for lamps. Such as:
Securing the Lampshade
A finial is used to hold the lampshade and hold it in place securely. The finial screws onto the threaded rod at the top of the harp which is the metal frame that supports the lampshade. It prevents the lampshade from wobbling or falling off the harp.
Improved Stability
These decorative pieces can provide more stability of the lamp. It adds some weight and balance to the top of the lamp which helps to keep it steady and upright. It also acts as a handle that can be used to lift or move the lamp without damaging the lampshade or the base.
Aesthetics and Design
These decorative art pieces are not only functional but also play an important role in the overall aesthetics and design of a lamp. It complements and contrasts with the lampshade, base, and surrounding decor, creating a harmonious or striking look. It can express your personality, style, and mood as there are many options to choose from, like animals, flowers, crystals, or symbols.
Types of Lamp Finials
The types and styles of this decorative piece can be different such as simple ball shapes, foliate forms with four outstretched leaves, and candelabra finials with many bending and outstretched arms. Some of its common types are the following:
Traditional Type
This type of piece features classic designs and ornate details. They often draw inspiration from historical or cultural motifs like acorns, pineapples, urns, or fleur-de-lis (a stylized flower with French origins). They are usually made of metal, such as brass, or iron, and have a polished or antique finish.
Contemporary Type
These can show sleek and minimalist designs. They are categorized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and simple forms. Usually, they are made of metal, like chrome, nickel, or steel with a shiny or matte finish.
Natural and Organic Type
They bring a touch of the outdoors inside as they are made of natural materials like wood, stone, shell, or bone. They have a rustic or earthy look that gives a natural touch. They often feature natural shapes such as leaves, flowers, fruits, or animals.
Whimsical Type
This type of lamp finials adds a playful and lighthearted element to your lamp. It is made of different materials such as glass, ceramic, or resin and has a colorful or glittery look. It often features whimsical shapes like stars, hearts, butterflies, or fairies.
How to Mix Match Finials for Lamps
Mixing and matching this decorative piece for lamps can be a fun and creative way to personalize your lamps and showcase your style. Here are some details about how to mix and match these decorative pieces for lamps:
Find a Common Thread
When mixing and matching finials for lamps, you must look for a common thread that ties them together. Such as the material, the finish, the shape, or the theme.
Balance the Scale and Proportion
You should consider the scale and proportion of the finials with the lamp base and the lampshade. Try to avoid using this decorative piece that is too large or too small for the lamp. As it can make the lamp look unbalanced.
Also, avoid using the finials that are too similar or too different in size. Because it can make the lamp look boring and chaotic. Aim for a harmonious and varied look where they are neither identical nor completely mismatched in size.
Experiment with Colors and Patterns
You can also experiment with different colors and patterns such as floral, geometric, paisley, or striped. You can use colors and patterns that can match or contrast with the lampshade, the base, or the surrounding decor. It can depend on the effect you want to create finally.
For example, to create a cohesive and coordinated look you can use similar colors and patterns. On the other hand, for a dynamic and eclectic look, you can use contrasting colors and patterns.
Have Fun and Be Creative
The most important thing for mixing and matching is to have fun and be more creative. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to mixing and matching these decorative pieces for lamps. According to your style and personality, you can play with your creativity and create a unique and classy look.
DIY the Finial in Your Style
You can make your finials from various objects, such as buttons, beads, or toys. Here are some steps that you must follow:
Step 1: Collect the Materials
You will need some basic tools and materials such as a drill, a screwdriver, a glue gun, a pair of scissors, and some paint or spray paint. You will need some objects to use as the base and the top of your decorative piece. It can be wooden craft balls, cabinet knobs, doorknobs, buttons, beads, toys, or shells.
You can easily get these items at your local craft store, hardware store, thrift store, or even at your home. You will also require some threaded rods or screws that fit the harp of your lampshade.
Step 2: Drill Holes in your Objects
In the next step, you need to drill holes in your objects to attach them to the threaded rods or screws. You can use a drill bit that matches the size of your rod or screw and drill a hole in the center of your object.
Be careful, not to drill too deep or too shallow, as this can affect the stability and appearance of your finial. You can use a washer or a nut to secure your object to the rod or screw if needed.
Step 3: Glue the Objects Together
Using the glue gun, fix the objects together to create your desired shape and style. You can also fix one object to the top of the rod or screw or fix multiple objects together to create a more complex or layered look.
You can consider some other materials, like ribbon, lace, or fringe, to embellish your finials. According to your creativity, you can decorate the piece.
Step 4: Paint the Final Look
In this last step, you have to paint the finials to match or contrast with your lamp or your decor. According to your color choice and style, you can give it the final look. You can give them a matte, glossy, metallic, or glittery finish. While, using sandpaper, or a sponge to create a distressed or aged look.
With the help of stencils, stickers, or decals, you can add some patterns or designs. Let them dry completely before you finally put them on your lamp.
Where Can I Buy Best Finials for Lamps?
FenchelShades, the leading lampshade company in the USA, fulfills your needs for the best lamp finials. We have already made hundreds of custom lampshades and made our customers' shopping easier. On our online platform, you'll get different types of decorative pieces. You can see a wide range of decorative pieces for lamps and also browse our different products.
Moreover, you can check their quick overview along with the price. Then you can place your order that perfectly fits your needs and preferences. So get ready to shop with one of the fast-growing lampshade companies and add a charm to your home.
