Decorate Like a Pro Choosing the Right Bulb for Your Lighting Project
Welcome to our Decorate Like a Pro series where we give you tips on how to decorate like the pros! Whether you're lighting up your home for the holidays or adding a festive touch to special occasions, choosing the right bulbs is crucial. In this post, we’ll guide you through the differences between the two most common sizes for bulbs, C7 and C9, so you can pick the best option for your project. We’ll also cover different styles and materials available to help you create a display that truly stands out.
What’s the Difference Between C7 and C9 Bulbs?
One of the first things to know when choosing your bulbs is the size difference between C7 and C9 bulbs. Here’s a quick breakdown:
It’s important to note that you can’t use the same stringer for both C7 and C9 bulbs because of their different base sizes.
Where Should You Use Each Type of Bulb?
The application of C7 and C9 bulbs depends on the look and brightness you’re aiming for:
- C7 Bulbs: As a smaller bulb, a C7 will give off slightly less light than a C9. For indoor use, C7 bulbs are a popular choice for the family Christmas tree. For outdoor use, our customers use C7s to outline doors, windows, and in outdoor trees and shrubs. C7’s can be use on rooflines, but they will not be as bold and bright at C9s.
- C9 Bulbs: C9 bulbs are most often used outdoors where you want bright lights to be seen from afar. They are far and away the most popular option for rooflines and large evergreen trees.
Choosing Between Glass and Plastic Bulbs
When it comes to choosing the material of your bulbs, you’ve got two options: glass or plastic. Each has its own benefits, so it’s important to understand the differences.
- Glass Bulbs: Known for their vintage, classic look, glass bulbs deliver a brighter, sharper light with excellent color clarity. All our glass bulbs are made with fade resistant glass ensuring they stay vibrant for longer. However, they are more fragile and prone to breaking, which makes them better suited for areas where durability isn’t a top concern. Glass bulbs are available for both incandescent and LED filaments & diodes.
- Plastic Bulbs: While they may offer a slightly dimmer light look, plastic bulbs are more durable and resistant to breakage. This makes them an excellent choice for areas exposed to weather and are easier to put up without the fear of breaking bulbs. Keep in mind that plastic bulbs are only available with LED filaments—you won’t find plastic options for incandescent C7 and C9 bulbs.
Different Bulb Styles
The style of your bulb can have a big impact on the overall look of your display. Let’s explore some popular styles:
- Diamond Faceted Bulbs: These plastic LED bulbs are the most popular and brightest bulb we offer. They have a textured surface that scatters light, creating a sparkling, diffused glow, viewable from every angle. Their brightness and durability make them a versatile option for both indoor and outdoor displays. As LED bulbs, their colors are true and bright! This bulb is the top choice for many professional decorators for use on rooflines and large outdoor trees.
- Ceramic Bulbs: Offering a traditional, opaque finish, ceramic bulbs diffuse light evenly to create a warm, vintage look. Meant to replicate painted glass Christmas bulbs of years gone by, these bulbs appeal to homeowners seeking a traditional display or a nostalgic appearance. We offer many styles of ceramic bulbs, including LED and incandescent varieties.
- Clear /Transparent Bulbs: If you want a bright, sharp light that shines directly through the bulb without diffusion, clear bulbs are a great option. They work well for bold, vibrant displays and are ideal for outlining rooflines or accenting large trees. For those looking for the traditional incandescent filament look but in LED, check out our LED filament bulbs available in fade-resistant glass and shatter proof plastic.
Conclusion: Finding the Right Bulb for Your Project
To recap, we’ve covered the differences between C7 and C9 bulbs in terms of size, base type, and best applications. We’ve also discussed the pros and cons of glass vs. plastic bulbs, as well as different styles like diamond faceted, ceramic, and clear bulbs. With this information, you should feel more confident in choosing the right bulbs for your lighting project.
Ready to get started? Check out our Decorate Like a Pro kits that come with our most popular bulb, the Warm white diamond faceted C9 bulb or browse our full range of lighting options. Have questions or want expert recommendations? Feel free to reach out—we’re here to help you create a stunning display that truly shines!
