Furniture hardware are metal and non-metal fixings, fittings, and pieces that improve the utility, durability and look of the furniture. Examples of furniture hardware are drawer runners, wardrobe fittings, door handles and knobs, hinges and brackets, kitchen drawers and fittings, and wooden mouldings.
When was Furniture Hardware First Used in the U.S.?
Colonial architecture in America influenced furniture hardware from the 1600s through the 1800s. This era was a mixture of French, Spanish, English Colonial, and Georgian styles. Architecture during this period was simple and plain. Furniture hardware during this time was smoothly rounded with basic designs in fine forms. The local blacksmith is the main producer of furniture hardware, if not cast in brass by a small English foundry. Samples of furniture hardware at the time are rim locks, thumb latches, strap hinges, and heavy iron butt hinges which were used for doors and cabinets.
Georgian influence in the 17th century gave way for more formal furniture hardware but due to the high expense of casting, blacksmiths used forged cast iron for most of the colonial era furniture hardware.
What are the Types of Furniture Hardware?
Furniture hardware may be classified into two main categories- general and special.
General or ordinary furniture hardware includes screws, hinges, hammers, nuts, channels, supports, locks, handles, holders, stoppers, hooks, and pins which are commonly a staple in most furniture.
Special hardware is further subdivided into kitchen, structural, and bathroom hardware. Examples of special hardware are brackets, magnetic catchers, castor wheels, wardrobe sockets and latches, and rotating table rings.
How to Choose Furniture Hardware?
The main considerations in choosing furniture hardware are the following.
- Functionality and use of furniture hardware
- Durability and reliability of furniture hardware
- Fitting of the furniture hardware
- Design, aesthetic, and finish of furniture hardware
- Size and positioning of furniture hardware
