Is it still possible to buy bakelite switches?
We are renovating an old farmhouse and would like to use Bakelite switches and sockets. Can you tell me where I might find these? SH, Whitby. Bakelite was an early plastic used a lot from the 1920s to the 1950s for products as various as door furniture, vacuum flasks, radios, televisions and, of course, light fittings. There are two sources of switches and sockets manufactured now some in the genuine Bakelite formulation, with the only modification being a higher fire rating; others in a modern lookalike material. The Period House Shop, 141 Corve Street, Ludlow SY8 2PG, (01584) 877276, has the largest selection; there are branches in Warwick (Wylies Period House Shop), (01926) 492470, and Shrewsbury (The Period House Shop), (01743) 340250. The range includes the genuine new Bakelite, with dolly switches, ceiling roses, pendants and dimmer switches. It also has some pretty pendant Bakelite lampshades in two shapes and pastel colours, plus fittings such as replacement socket covers. The
