Flicker Bulbs vs. Orange Glass Paint

[wudden]

Hey Everyone -

I purchased two of the lights below..

http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q13/wudden/lamp.jpg

I have flicker bulbs in them now, and in the dark they look alright but they're so dim you can almost barely even notice them. I assume this is why I see almost everyone going with etched glass with orange glass paint on the inside of the fixture.

Am I correct in my assumption that this is done to get a more intense light? I guess I'm worried to try it, not like it, and then be out the $35 and be forced to go buy a new light.

If I do go this route, should I etch the glass then paint, or can I just apply the paint direct?

[Otaku]

I used a spray-on coating that makes the glass look sandblasted. I used it on the outside of a lantern globe, and I like the effect. I heard that it may not stand up to a lot of outdoor exposure, but the coating has been on the globes for two years and hasn't peeled.

[scream1973]

I just purchased some $2-3 amber bulbs from wallyworld for use in my lights and it has the look i was looking for.. However the glass was already kinda like bathroom window glass where it has the wavy lines