Wicks for kerosene (Coal Oil) Lamps
Though I am not expert on the topic of lamps or wicks, I have learned a few things about wicks. Specifically, if you are just getting into lamps, or you have been into lamps for a while, there are 2 kinds of wicks out there, the good and the bad. The bad, being American wicking, is really bad. In general, European wicking is better. In order to back these claims up with some concrete information, it is important to set the stage.
- I do not have any flat-wick lamps. In general, flat wick lamps are not as complex as other kerosene lamps and do not require the level of tuning that other kerosene lamp types.
- Most of the lamps that are discussed here are round-wick lamps. This means that the wicks are actually a cylinder or they are wide flat-wicks that are "bent" or "folded" into a cylinder shape.
- The quality of the flame and the material that is used to produce the flame is very, very important. I cannot stress enough the disappoint that can be felt when using a lamp that does not perform as expected due to a lack of proper wicking material.
- I have nothing against American (non-European) wick makers. For the lamps for which they are experts at producing the wicks, it is done well. For European lamps and the serious collector, the right wicking material is essential.
This page is undergoing development at the moment. I have a wide range of wicks to offer in limited supply for Kosmos, Hugo Schnieder, Fellboelin, and other Europen burners, please email me with any questions. If you are interested in asking me questions, or have comments, please contact me. I am willing to listen and teach where and when I can. Thank you ;) -Matt McKinley