A ceiling fan pull is an opportunity to put a quality detail in your living space that you will see and enjoy every day. It is an accessory that, like the rest of your home decor, says something about you, your taste, and your individuality.
First the practical...if your ceiling fan is on a porch or outside, go with a quality chain. When I made my prototypes 10 years ago, I used some #6 ball chain I had lying around the house. Mistake. Make sure the chain on your pull is either brass or aluminum. Brass will last the longest and develop an attractive and inconspicuous patina over time. Using these chains adds significantly to the cost of making a pull, so bear that in mind when making a purchase.
The end piece should be securely attached, preferably wired to the chain loop. Pulls get, well, PULLED a lot, and a glued connection won't last long at all. Because they have a rough life, they should come with an unconditional guarantee of at least a year or two.
Consider the location of your fan. Does it have lights that will illuminate the piece? Does natural light hit it? If so, choose one that has translucent or clear elements. If in a fairly dark place, choose one with good color that is opaque. Is the fan in your bedroom where you have to get up in the middle of the night to turn it on or off? You might want to pick a pair where each is a different shape so you don't need to turn on the light.
What are your interests? If you love the Magic Kingdom, sports, comic book characters, there is a lot to choose from. If you love art, the natural world, color, glass, go with a more upscale lamp work glass, natural gem, or stone pull, but expect to pay more for quality materials, because they are often hand crafted and not mass produced. Remember, you will see this every day, and whoever comes into your space will also see it.
Ebay is a great source for Ceiling Fan Pulls. There are typically 800-1200 pulls available on any day. Search for pull for singles, or pulls for pairs. Do an advanced search and look on the left column for stores carrying great selections. Take your time. If you are over whelmed by the number, ask the search to show you 200 at a time and enlarge the thumbnail (shown at the bottom of the page as a series of progressively larger boxes...just click on the biggest one.
Think about this! Ceiling fan pulls are not just for ceiling fans any more:) Vertical blinds often have #6 chain pulls and are right by a window, so a wonderful opportunity to use the natural light to illuminate the piece. Many ceiling fixtures and fluorescent lights have pull chain switches! Do you like antiques? A quality pull under a rare antique lamp makes a singular statement of style. The sky is the limit! There are people who hang fan pulls from their rear view mirrors!
Finally, a fan or light pull makes a great gift. Your recipient will think of you often, and there are pulls out there suitable for women, men, children, and even babies!
Guide created: 07/01/09
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