Bat Lamp When I first saw this lamp, I knew I had to have one!  The only problem was that no pattern was available. Using photographs and measurements found in books, I was able to construct a form of this unique shape.  The pattern was then drawn onto the form from several available photos. Because many of my stained glass friends were also interested in making their own interpretation of this lamp, I have decided to make the mold and pattern set as well as cast solder heads available for purchase.
			The kit consists of a fiberglass form with incised pattern lines, a paper pattern,  an identical mylar pattern, and 4 cast solder bat heads.  In the photo, the lines on the form  have been colored black for visibility.  Only three heads are needed for this lamp, but because they are made from cast 50/50 solder,  I include an extra just in  case one gets too hot during the soldering process.  They are made of solder rather than lead  so that the patina may be applied more consistently to match the rest of the shade.  There are 218 pieces of glass in this pattern.  It is designed to accept a 2 inch Odyssey ring.
	Here's a close up view of one of the bat heads.  Three heads such as this hang below the lower rim of this shade.
	To complete your lamp, you'll need to provide a 2 inch Odyssey top ring, glass, and lower rim of your choice.  Of course, you'll also need your stained glass supplies and equipment. This form and pattern are designed to be used with a 2 inch ring for the top aperture.  Using a ring is true to the original, and is stronger than simply soldering on a vase cap. I recommend using an Odyssey brand brass ring.  It is the correct size for this pattern, and will match other Odyssey hardware.  Some import bases come with a ring/ wheel assembly already, but I have found that these are seldom the right size, and may cause difficulties if not modified or replaced.  An Odyssey spider cap is also true to the original.   The lower rim for this lamp is actually quite wide.  1/4 to 3/8 flexible copper tubing works well.  This comes in coils, and is typically used for refrigerator water supplies.  Unlike normal copper tubing which is purchased in straight lengths, this type will bend fairly easily.  If you desire a thinner lower rim, #6 copper grounding wire may be used.  The lower rim is formed in three separate sections, one between each bat head. As an alternative to displaying this lamp on a base, it works quite nicely as a hanging lamp.  I displayed mine for several years in this fashion before I located a suitable base.  A 2 inch wheel and hanging cap from Odyssey make hanging this lamp quite simple.  A basic swag kit, complete with chain, socket and wiring is available at many home improvement centers at a fraction of the cost of a base.  I found that a single 40 watt bulb was plenty for this lamp, and chose a white large vanity style globe bulb.   A long spidery tassel on the socket worked nicely.
	Price List 6/08   Bat Lamp Mold Kit   $100    Fiberglass mold, paper pattern, mylar pattern, 4 bat heads Extra heads   $15 4 Cast solder bat heads Lower rim   $15 1/4 inch or 3/8 inch Copper tubing   Blank mold   $75 Fiberglass mold in this unique hexagonal shape, but without any inscized pattern lines Shipping Varies With crazy postage rates varying so much by location, postage will be calculated to your location from Altoona, PA 16602 on a 4-5 lb box measuring 18x9x18 inches. Payment may be made through Pay-Pal, Personal Check or Money Order. For more information or to order, please email me.
	Links:
	Association of Stained Glass Lamp Artists  Go to ASGLA's home page.
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