From our friends at HardenFurniture.com
The use of upholstery nail head trim dates to the Louis XIII period – approximately 1600. It is likely that decorative nail heads were intended to be a more refined way to upholster and not considered for their aesthetic value.
Today nails are very popular, particularly on leather upholstery and there is an almost unlimited variety available. Harden offers 17 standard nails, but we can also accommodate customer nails or source a specific nail. We even offer a turquoise nail that is a perfect accent on the right piece with the right fabric or leather.
The location of nails is dependent on the frame – there has to be a solid frame part under the fabric for the nail to fasten to. Generally speaking, if there is a corner or edge where two panels of upholstery meet then that is where nails can be applied. Some frames require nail head as there is not another convenient way to cover the line where a panel has been attached to the frame.
Nails are mostly applied by hand, using a nylon tipped tack hammer that will not damage the finish on the nail and also not damage the surrounding upholstery. On occasion a pneumatic nail gun is used, but accuracy can be a concern and when nailing next to an exposed wood frame part care has to be taken to avoid damage.
Some manufacturers use plastic nail strips that are easy and fast to apply, but in most cases it is obvious that real steel nails have not been used. Plastic nail strips are “faux” nails with an occasional real nail that is attached to the frame.
- Come into Charlton Furniture to see the quality workmanship that Harden offers – and we are having a great SALE on in-stock and special order items from Harden.
