A field emission device (8) includes a cathode (80), an anode (84), and spacers (83) interposed therebetween. The cathode includes a network base (81) and a plurality of field emitters (82) formed thereon. The network base is formed of a plurality of electrically conductive carriers. The field emitters are located on surfaces of the carriers, respectively. The field emitters extend radially outwardly from the corresponding conductive carriers. The plurality of electrically conductive carriers may be made of electrically conductive fibers, for example, metal fibers, carbon fibers, organic fibers or another suitable fibrous material. Carrier portions of the plurality of electrically conductive carriers may be cylindrical, curved/arcuate, or at least approximately curved in shape.