Over the weekend, I spotted these new retro-looking pattern projection lamps at IKEA. These are low power versions of the same kinds of graphic pattern projectors used in theatrical productions, museums, nightclubs and corporate offices. In both units, a high intensity halogen bulb shines through a special disc with a graphic pattern cut in it and a focusing lens. Both parts are adjustable and are held in place by screws down on two metal rails. The larger lamp (pic 3) is ISBRYTARE at $39.99 and the smaller one, is KORELIN (pic 1) is $19.99. Both come with an assortment of multi-colored pattern discs (pic 2). Of course, what you'd want to do is to make your own pattern discs, or what they call in the lighting biz, gobos. The pattern could be a piece of transparency film with inkjet graphics, or a hand cut piece of foil. Or you could have this company etch a custom pattern disc from brass for $50.

- mike lee - washington, dc