Barrel hinges get their name from their design, which consists of two cylinders that, when fitted together, form the shape of a barrel. These hinges are reliable additions to woodworking and cabinet making, as they are barely visible once installed, keeping the craftsmanship of your project the primary focus.
In this post, we explore how to choose the correct barrel hinge for your project and dive into an easy five-step guide for effortlessly installing barrel hinges.
Choosing the Right Barrel Hinge
Barrel hinges come in varioussizes andfinishes. Selecting the appropriate size depends on the thickness and weight of your project’s door or lid. As a general rule of thumb, larger hinges are best for supporting heavier cabinet doors and thick chest lids.
The choice of materials depends on the look you want and the setting and environment where the hinge will be used.
Perhaps you are updating the drawer hinges on an old desk and want to increase durability without compromising the aged style. In this situation, brass barrel hinges uphold the authentic appearance and provide the strength needed in antiquefurniture restoration projects.
Or maybe you crafted a cabinet for backyardstorage, and you need it to match the aesthetic of your home whilewithstanding weather changes. Stainless steel barrel hinges with a matte black finish are perfect for outdoor applications in modern homes, providing a clean look and holding up well against the elements.
Step-by-Step Barrel Hinge Installation
1. Measuring and Marking
Start with a clean, flat surface.Measure the exact placement for your hinges, typically five inches from the top and bottom of the door, drawer, or lid. Mark these locations clearly with a pencil.
Ensuring correct alignment at this stage is vital for the smooth operation of your door or panel.
2. Drilling Holes
Drill holes at your marked locations using a drill bit that matches the diameter of your barrel hinge. The depth should match the length of the barrel hinge. Be cautious when drilling straight down to avoid misalignment.
3. Fitting the Barrel Hinge
Insert the barrel hinge into the drilled hole. It should fit comfortably; a loose fit can lead to unreliable mounting, while an overly tight fit might crack the wood.
4. Securing the Hinge
Once the hinge fits correctly, secure it in place. Depending on the type of barrel hinge, this might involve screwing it in or simply pushing it until it's fully inserted.
5. Testing the Fit
Before moving on, open and close the door, drawer, or lid to ensure smooth movement and proper alignment. Make any necessary adjustments.
Final Thoughts
