Shakers Style Furniture Hardware

The Shakers are known for their simple yet elegant furniture designs that are both functional and beautiful. The furniture hardware used in Shaker pieces are important components that contribute to the overall aesthetic and functionality of the pieces. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the furniture hardware used by the Shakers and how it has influenced modern furniture design.

History of Shaker Furniture Hardware: 

The Shakers believed in creating furniture that was both beautiful and functional. Their furniture designs were simple and restrained, with an emphasis on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. The furniture hardware used by the Shakers was also essential to their design philosophy, as it was meant to enhance the functionality of the pieces without detracting from their beauty.

Furniture Hardware Used by Shakers:

Some of the most common furniture hardware used by the Shakers included drawer pulls, knobs, hinges, and locks. These hardware pieces were usually made of brass or iron and were designed to be sturdy and functional. The Shakers also added decorative touches to their hardware, such as brass escutcheons, to add a touch of elegance to their pieces.

• Drawer Pulls: One of the most iconic pieces of furniture hardware used by the Shakers is the drawer pull. Shaker drawer pulls are typically made of brass or iron and are simple in design. The most common designs feature a rectangular backplate with two holes for mounting and a circular or rectangular bail handle for opening the drawer. Shaker drawer pulls are designed to be functional and easy to use. The bail handle makes it easy to pull the drawer open, and the simple design ensures that the focus remains on the beauty of the piece itself.

• Knobs: Another common piece of furniture hardware used by the Shakers is the knob. Shaker knobs are typically made of wood, and the design is often very simple. The knob might be round or square in shape, and it may have a simple vertical or horizontal design etched into it. Shaker knobs are designed to be functional, but they also add a touch of beauty to the piece. The simple design ensures that the knob does not detract from the overall aesthetic of the piece while still being easy to use.

• Hinges: Shaker furniture hinges are typically made of brass or iron and are designed to be sturdy and long-lasting. The most common design features a rectangular backplate with two or three screw holes for mounting and a long, straight hinge arm. Shaker hinges are designed to be functional, but they also add a touch of beauty to the piece. The simple design ensures that the hinge does not detract from the overall aesthetic of the piece.

• Locks: Shaker furniture locks are typically made of brass or iron and are designed to be functional and secure. The most common design features a rectangular backplate with a keyhole and a locking mechanism behind the plate. Shaker locks were designed to be simple and efficient, with a focus on functionality over aesthetics. The locks were usually placed on the inside of the drawers or cabinet doors, hidden from view.

Influence of Shaker Hardware on Modern Furniture Design: 

The furniture hardware used by the Shakers has had a significant impact on modern furniture design. Shaker design principles emphasize simplicity, functionality, and quality craftsmanship, which are all important components of modern furniture design. Many modern furniture designers have drawn inspiration from the Shakers, incorporating their design principles and hardware into their own creations.

Shaker drawer pulls, knobs, hinges, and locks are still used today in furniture design, often with a modern twist. For example, some modern furniture designers have created drawer pulls that are more sculptural and artistic, incorporating unique shapes and materials. Others have added decorative details to Shaker locks and hinges, such as intricate etchings or unique finishes.

The furniture hardware used by the Shakers is an essential component of their design philosophy. Drawer pulls, knobs, hinges, and locks are all designed to be functional and beautiful, adding to the overall aesthetic of the pieces without detracting from their simplicity. The influence of Shaker furniture design and hardware can be seen in modern furniture design today, with many designers drawing inspiration from the Shakers’ emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and quality craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking to create a piece of furniture with a contemporary twist or one that is more traditional in style, incorporating Shaker furniture hardware is a great way to add authentic character and style to your piece.