Butterfly hinges, also known as dovetail hinges, have a butterfly shape and decorative finish suitable for visible applications. They come in various sizes and finishes, and it’s important to choose the right weight rating and screw depth for the project. Discreet finishes blend well with the overall design.
A butterfly zipper has a butterfly shape and a decorative finish that makes it visually interesting. This design is suitable for applications where the hinge will be visible and more utilitarian hardware would distract from a door, piece of furniture or other product. Replacement hinges and screws are usually available at hardware and home improvement stores for projects like refurbishing old trunks or attaching new cabinet doors. It may also be possible to find them at salvage companies, for cases where people want to use historic hardware if possible.
The precise shape of a butterfly hinge can vary by manufacturer, but tends to look somewhat like the wings of a butterfly, with a design that is widened from the center pin. Ornamental finishes can include a variety of textures as well as swirls or embossing. Some butterfly hinges are finished in enamel for a colorful look. The screws are finished to match so they are less visible and sit flush within the screw holes, which are typically chamfered.
Also called a dovetail hinge, this design can be useful for fine furniture projects. Boxes, cabinets, and other projects with hinged doors, panels, and similar features may require ornamental hardware to avoid a jarring look. Depending on the design, a butterfly hinge might be visible when a project is closed or open and can contribute to the overall look. Block hinges in a standard stainless steel finish might look out of place.
When selecting a butterfly hinge, it is important to pay attention to the weight rating and depth of the screws. These hinges come in a range of sizes, from very small models for miniature cases to larger, heavier ones for cabinet drawers. The wrong hinge may not be able to support the weight as it opens and closes, which could cause a door or lid to fall off. The depth of the screw can also be important, as long screws can go all the way in or create cracks in the surface material.
The finish is also a consideration. These hinges can come in glossy or matte finishes along with textured versions in colors like copper, gold, silver, and black. Discreet finishes blend aesthetically with the finished product and create a uniform visual appearance. Bright silver hinges, for example, stand out on a project done with a dark wood, where a matte brass or black might be more suitable to allow the butterfly hinge to fade into the design.
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