Swag Lamps – What are they?

The word “Swag” in this lighting context simply means to hang from the ceiling. This definition can be used to incorporate many different lighting fixtures that hang from the ceiling, including chandeliers, pendants, and others. However, the traditional and more accepted definition is more specific. It is strictly aimed at a fabric lampshade that has been electrified with one or more electric sockets / bulbs and is usually hung from the ceiling on a metal chain.

Really good ideas just refuse to go away! Swags were very popular from the 1950s to the 1980s. They can be seen in many television shows and movies from that period. They have remained very popular in many hotels, motels and resorts because they are space saving and inexpensive. Today we are experiencing a huge resurgence in popularity. They are among the most efficient and economical methods for lighting any area. They are also one of the best reading lights available and can be ideally positioned to put the light right where you want it while saving valuable floor space. They can be directly connected (permanently connected to the ceiling) or they can be portable with a connection cable like a table lamp. Swag lamps are widely used in residential and commercial applications. Large curtains are used for large areas and more compact curtains for small areas. Swag lamps lend themselves to a wide variety of bulb styles, especially highly efficient compact fluorescent bulbs. They are really beautiful with the light shining through the elegant fabric.

There are many features available such as 1) String on / off switch 2) Inline on / off switch 3) Custom color string 4) Custom color cable 5) Custom string and cable length 6) Single bulb configuration or multiple 7) Hanging chain 8) Hanging cord 9) Hanging rod 10) Diffuse

The available shade fabric styles and colors are nearly endless because virtually any lampshade can easily be converted to a direct-wired or portable swag lamp.

In short, swag lamps are back in fashion. They work great near the end of a sofa, behind or next to a chair, on a dining or game table, in a corner, beside or on a bed, on a nightstand, on or next to a desk, etc. Use a swag lamp almost anywhere you want light and want to preserve your floor space.

– Jim Hoyle