Are the Offlite lamps that I see in Joannes worth the money? Do they require any special bulb that is only replaceable at Joannes? Are other lamps that one might find in Walmart, etc. the same quality?

They're Ott lights. Ott lights have special daylight bulbs. But you can buy daylight bulbs other places. JoAnn's with a 50% off coupon is probably going to be your best bet for bulbs though. I have the Ott light desk lamp that folds closed and I've been using it for probably 5 years or more and it still has the original bulb in it.

i really enjoy mine. but there are other less expensive daylight bulbs that would probably suffice

I have one and I do like mine. It helps with night time sewing and with dark colors.

I have an Ottlite, but mostly I use a regular lamp with an Ottlite bulb. No need to go out and spend the money on the lamps. Besides it goes with my decor.

I love my Ott, I got it at Joanne's during one of their bi-annual half off sales so I got the light for 50% off. During the same sales is when I stock up on replacement bulbs. I haven't tried any other brand, I like my ott and I am sticking with it. Makes such a difference as I have poor lighting in my sewing room.

My ott lite finally burnt out and I went last weekend to get a new bulb - $39. Could almost get a new light.

I use full-spectrum, "natural light" CFLs available anywhere. I don't notice any difference between my lamp and my friend's Ott - except for the cost, of course.

I bought replacement bulbs when they were 50% off. I have yet to need them. They are now over a year old!

I had to buy a floor model ott light when I was quilting my black quilt. I couldn't see the stitches!! But I got it with the 50% coupon and I love it. I use it all the time now next to my quilting frame and I haven't had to buy a replacement bulb yet. I think I'll get one when I have the next 50% off coupon because the bulb will burn out when I'm in a rush to finish a quilt.... late at night when all the stores are closed. Thanks for this question because now I'll be prepared.