Table lamps

	Lenno offers model F805, a table lamp with a plaster base and stem, parchment shade and E27 bulb base.

Bamboo and Junshi are employed as a means to ensure molding ease and eco-friendliness. Designs also boast LEDs and controllers.

Under efforts to boost exports, China suppliers of table and floor lamps are focusing on enriching product design. This comes as higher outlay and the sluggish economy caused overseas revenue from January to September 2008 to fall 2 percent from the same period the previous year.

To stimulate demand, many makers are exploring new materials and advanced technologies as a means of increasing product value.

Several companies are now adopting bamboo, plaster and crystal for the base and stem. Bamboo, which is an environment-friendly alternative to wood, is being used either in its natural color or with a black coating. Makers that offer such models are often located in Anji of Zhejiang province where the material is abundant.

Some suppliers are also utilizing Junshi, a type of high-end plaster that, when in liquid form, is easier to mold than metal or plastic. The material not only facilitates the creation of novel shapes but also yields soft-colored table and floor lamps with a well-defined outline.

Moreover, Junshi enhances damp, rust and UV resistance, thereby preventing premature fading.

Natural crystal, meanwhile, is exclusively employed for upscale selections, as it is expensive and often imported.

China makers’ design competence is also paving the way for intelligent models. Usually equipped with LEDs, these feature a controller that allows the user to preprogram the on/off and light intensity settings. Versions with a remote control are in the pipeline.

In terms of the manufacturing process, some suppliers are adopting titanium nitride vacuum ion plating on the lampshade for better light reflection and durability.

Products meet RoHS, CE, UL, GS, PSE, SAA, CCC, BS, SASO and VDE standards. Power-saving models also bear EPA’s Energy Star mark.

An increasing number of companies are opting to fabricate key components in-house to ensure safety and a longer service life.

Table and floor lamps from China come in modern, classical and Oriental styles. Contemporary models often have clean silhouettes and minimal embellishments.

Traditional designs come in ornate structures, and are usually made of bronze and stained glass. These generate strong demand from Europe.

Oriental versions feature Eastern elements. Japan-inspired models, for instance, can have shades with a cherry blossoms pattern.

Although basic-function designs dominate, multipurpose products are also offered. Table lamps that can be converted for use on the floor are available. Some versions come with a radio and a clock as add-ons.

Other high-value features include brightness control and an adjustable stem angle.

To attract more residential furnishing buyers, many companies are offering models together with other home products in a coordinated series. The set usually includes candle holders, vases, bookends, fruit bowls, clocks and jewelry boxes in the same material and design theme.

China-made table and floor lamps have stems and bases in metal, plastic, wood, glass, polyresin, marble, plaster, crystal or bamboo.

Metal options include iron, copper, aluminum alloy and stainless steel.

Zinc alloy and bronze are also being adopted for tiffany lights.

For plastic, PC, ABS, PP and PVC are among the selection. Bases and stems in these compounds are commonly coated with foil or silver.

Shades come in all these materials as well, although some are made of fabric and parchment paper.

Polyester coverings can have lace and organza accents for aesthetic appeal. These are fitted with PVC lining to maintain the form.

Glass shades are usually sandblasted. Domestically sourced materials are often created manually, while imported versions are done using computerized machines. Glass from abroad has a better distribution and density and, as such, costs about 10 times more.

As regards the light source, energy-saving LEDs are becoming popular, particularly for table lamps.

Products, however, are still generally exported without the bulb. Designs are equipped with an E14, E27, E12, E26, B15 or B22 holder.

Table lamps are priced from $2 to more than $70, with models between $15 and $25 the best-sellers. Floor lamps often go for $5 to $65.

Quotes depend on the size, material, design and construction. Versions featuring handmade components are priced significantly higher.

Export value in the first nine months of 2008 reached more than $570 million. Nearly 48 percent went to the EU. The US, however, remained the largest single-country destination, absorbing $200 million worth during the period.