Antique Furniture Hardware

Antique furniture hardware was originally crafted from brass and iron allowing two wooden parts to function as a unit. Although this was an innovative concept, production methods were crude.

Initially furniture hardware was very simplistic. Hinges were made from simple cotter pin devices and doors were held shut with flip latches. This antique furniture hardware was crafted by many local blacksmiths and small shops.

The industrial revolution brought change as manufacturing capabilities improved. Production moved away from localized shops to urban hardware manufacturers. This evolution brought about furniture hardware of more uniformity with standardized sizing.  At this time furniture fabrication also moved to factories. Mass assembly of cabinetry and hardware brought stylistic and structural changes.

Modern ideas and more sophisticated designs kept factories churning out new, improved designs. Although not every style and period of furniture hardware made in the past is currently in production, many popular antique furniture hardware styles are reproduced making cabinet repair and antique restoration achievable.  

Bed hardware connects vintage bed parts, label holders organize files, table slides enable table tops to glide open for leaf insertion, furniture locks secure drawers or doors, casters - wheels roll furniture to new locations and cabinet hinges enable doors to open or close. From early inventions to todays modern technology accurate woodworking hardware is essential for movable components of furniture to operate correctly. Good design and authentic manufacturing techniques make antique furniture hardware worthy of fine cabinetry.