Furniture manufacturing hardware is the general term for all the metal and plastic parts that join pieces of furniture together, allow for movement, and provide functionality. There are two main categories of furniture hardware:
Functional Hardware: This hardware is essential for the assembly and operation of furniture. It includes things like:
- Hinges: Hinges allow doors and lids to open and close. There are many different types of hinges, including butt hinges, cabinet hinges, and piano hinges.
- Drawer slides: Drawer slides allow drawers to move in and out of cabinets. They come in a variety of materials, including steel, plastic, and nylon
- Furniture fasteners: Furniture fasteners are used to hold pieces of furniture together. They include screws, nails, bolts, and cams.
- Furniture legs and casters: Furniture legs and casters provide support and allow furniture to be moved. They come in a variety of materials, styles, and sizes.
- Furniture locks: Furniture locks are used to secure doors and drawers. They come in a variety of styles, including key locks, combination locks, and magnetic locks.
Decorative Hardware: This hardware is used to improve the appearance of furniture. It includes things like:
- Handles and knobs: Handles and knobs are used to open and close doors and drawers. They come in a variety of materials, styles, and finishes.
- Knobs and pulls: Knobs and pulls are similar to handles and knobs, but they are typically smaller and more decorative.
- Escutcheons: Escutcheons are decorative plates that are mounted around keyholes.
The type of furniture hardware that is used in a particular piece of furniture will depend on the function of the furniture, the style of the furniture, and the materials that the furniture is made from. For example, a heavy dresser will require different hardware than a light-duty nightstand.