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
esthetic value.
Today nails are very popular, particularly on leather
upholstery and beds and there is an almost unlimited variety. Most of our
manufacturers offer a number of different nailhead colours, sizes and options.
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 treatment as
there is not any other convenient way to cover the line where a panel has to be
attached to a 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. Accuracy is very important and care must be taken to
avoid damage.
Some manufacturers use plastic nail strips that are easy and
fast to apply, but it is obvious when looking, really nails have not been applied.
Like most things in life, strips are cheaper to install, saving money but they
do not have the same look as real nails applied by hand.
No comments:
Post a Comment