No, the paper used in our lamps was intentionally selected to be contract-grade — meaning it is built to resist tearing while still diffusing the soft, warm glow that makes paper lamps so inviting. The majority of our lamps use Japanese washi paper, a type of paper made from long mulberry fibers that has been prized for over a thousand years for its natural strength, flexibility, and luminous quality. Compared to the lower-grade rice paper used in many mass-market paper lamps, our paper is 2x more durable and significantly more resistant to tearing, yellowing, and warping. That said, like all delicate handmade products, paper lamps should still be handled gently — especially when moving, dusting, or installing.

All of our paper floor lamps and table lamps are compatible with standard E26 or E27 light bulbs, giving you flexibility to choose the bulb that best suits your space.

For ceiling pendant styles, the cord set is sold separately. Our shades are designed with a universal E-shape cord hook that securely attaches to any standard cord set on the market, so you can pair your lamp with the cord and bulb of your choice. For the most flattering glow, we recommend warm-white LED bulbs (2700K or lower), as LEDs emit minimal heat, protecting the paper shade and extending the life of your lamp.

Yes, our paper lamps are designed for easy at-home assembly and most customers complete setup in under 10 minutes without tools. Lamps arrive partially assembled, typically requiring only the cord set attachment or shade-to-base connection. Every lamp includes illustrated step-by-step instructions, and our customer care team is available to help if any questions come up.

To clean a paper lamp, gently dust the surface with a soft, dry brush, feather duster. Avoid water, cleaning sprays, or damp cloths, as moisture can warp the paper shade and leave permanent marks. For detailed folds or pleats, a soft makeup brush works well. Regular light dusting prevents buildup and preserves the lamp's appearance.

A well-made paper lamp can last for decades. Our paper lamps are built to contract-grade standards, meaning they are constructed for the durability required in commercial environments such as hotels, restaurants, and design showrooms — not just occasional home use.

Longevity ultimately depends on three factors: build quality, the environment the lamp is placed in, and ongoing care. To extend the life of your paper lamp, keep it in a space with stable, moderate humidity, avoid placing it near open flames, candles, or high-heat sources, and dust it gently with a soft brush as needed. With these simple precautions, your lamp is built to be lived with for years to come.

Please check the "Dimensions and Materials" section on its product description page.

• Expert craftsmanship: Our artisans have, on average, over 10 years of experience in paper lamp making. Because all of our paper lamps are handmade, each piece you receive is unique, and carefully constructed with lasting skill and care.
• Made to last: Our paper lamps are all contract grade, meaning they were all made to last. While alternatives from other larger home retailers prioritize low price points - often at the expense of materials and finish - ours are thoughtfully designed and constructed to be durable, timeless, and quietly beautiful.Each artisan is specifically trained and guided to ensure every detail of our products reflects the care, precision, and quality we stand for.
• Trusted quality: We work with the same manufacturer trusted by premium design retailers like Design Within Reach (DWR)—a name known for excellence in modern design.
• Authentic materials: We use the best types of paper for our paper lamps. We source the paper used for our washi paper lamps from the same legacy supplier used in Noguchi’s original Akari designs, preserving the integrity of tradition and craft.
• Design with intention: Every curve, fold, and fiber is considered—because to us, quality is not a feature; it’s a philosophy.