How to Use a Deck Prism to Add Light to a Room

A deck prism is a faceted, roughly cone-shaped or diamond-shaped glass item that was hung in the dark holds of ships to provide light. In times past, when ships were made primarily of wood, candles and lanterns were fire hazards below decks. Deck prisms provided at least some illumination below and could even act as a fire alarm by reflecting light up to the deck from the stairs. While the light from a deck prism is not strong, you can still use it to give your home a little more brightness.

Deck prism
Deck prism hanger
Cup hook

Instructions

- 1
  Hang your deck prism from a cup hook installed in the ceiling and using a deck prism hanger. A deck prism hanger is a brass or metal harness used to dangle the prism from your ceiling, flat end towards the ceiling. Hang the prism above a set of stairs where there is at least some light coming in from above. The light hits the prism from the side and distributes it downwards.
- 2
  Place the deck prism on a window sill. The light from outside hits the prism which then directs it into the home. This does not add much ambient light to the room, but it does add a certain nautical flair to your decorating.
- 3
  Set the deck prism at a location where it will catch some light from a lamp or an overhead light. In a room that is dimly lit, it throws noticeable light onto the walls. This is primarily a decorative effect, but it adds to the decor of the room.

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