How do I clean a brass burner?

Use a soft brush to remove loose soot from the air vents. The gallery slots need to stay clear for a good flame. A mild metal polish works for the exterior brass. Avoid getting paste inside the wick gears, as it dries out and jams the mechanism.

I found a large lamp in my grandmother's attic, but the turning knob feels stuck when I try to move it. Can it be fixed?

Old paraffin turns into a tough varnish over time. It binds the cotton wick to the brass tube and locks the gears solid. Applying a few drops of penetrating fluid down the wick slot often helps. Give it a day to soak in before trying the thumb-wheel again. Never force a stuck wheel. The small teeth on the winder strip easily, which means sourcing a replacement burner.

What kind of oil should I use?

Modern lamp oil is the safest choice for indoor use. It burns without producing much soot. Avoid citronella or scented oils. They clog old cotton wicks very quickly.

There is a small crack near the top of the glass shade that sits on my table lamp, will it shatter if I light it?

Heat expansion is the main issue here. When the burner warms up, the glass shade expands slightly, and existing stress lines can travel further. A small rim chip rarely causes trouble. A running crack near the base where heat concentrates is much riskier. Keep the flame low if you do light it. Sudden temperature changes are what finally break compromised glass.

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Antique Oil Lamps

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These consist of a reservoir to hold the fuel below a geared burner and glass chimney, providing essential indoor lighting before electricity became widespread.