By and large one of the most important inventions for everyday use isn't very large at all. Because of cabinet door hinges we are able to store things away behind doors that previously would have been on shelves. Although originally used in 1600 B.C., the Romans adapted the hinge for home use. Flash forward to the American colonies and hinges were used everywhere. Eventually they were outfitted for the doors of wagons heading west most prominently by Charles Hager in St. Louis. He founded the present day Hager Hardware Company and in the 1900's received a patent for the compact butt hinge and the rest as they say is history.
Today the best place to shop for hinges is not the local blacksmith or even the hardware store. It is online. Only by shopping online will you be able to see the vast selection of cabinet door hinges available as well as be able to compare prices, styles and finishes. So don't drag yourself all over town instead shop from the comfort of your own home with the click of a button.
Glass Shelf Hardware
But hinges are one of the most common types of cabinet door hinges available. They consist of two leaves or flaps with screw holes that are held together by a pin. The flaps are recessed into the door and frame so when the cabinet is closed all that is visible is the hinge. The pin can be outfitted with balls or finials for a decorative touch.
Similar to the butt hinge but used only on flush doors; doors that rest within the frame, are butterfly hinges. These cabinet door hinges are also constructed with two flaps with screw holes held together by a pin. The difference is these hinges are mounted on the outside of the door and frame giving your cabinet a decorative touch. They are available in several styles to suit your taste ranging from colonial to art deco and more.
Pivot hinges are made for overlay doors which are doors that rest over the door frame. One is attached to the top and one to the bottom. Portions of each are then folded over and recessed into the door and frame resulting in a concealed hinge. If open cabinets are a pet peeve of yours then the ever popular spring-loaded or self-closing hinge is for you. Built with a small spring inside the door automatically closes after it is opened. You'll never be annoyed by open cabinets again.
No matter what you of cabinet door hinges you choose you still have to select a finish as well. From antique copper to polished chrome and everything in between the easiest route to take might be to match your cabinet knobs and drawer pulls. Not only will this make your cabinet door hinge shopping experience easier, but you will also complete you room with style and finesse.
So even though they are small and you probably never thought about them being part of your décor, don't forget about your cabinet door hinges because your modern life hinges on hinges.