Butterfly hinges

The Butterfly Hinge
The Butterfly Hinge is a distinctive and decorative hardware piece. It is named for its shape that resembles the outstretched wings of a butterfly. Far more than just a functional item, this hinge is designed to be a visible design element. It enhances the character of furniture, cabinets, and boxes.

Whether you are restoring a vintage trunk, crafting a bespoke piece of furniture, or adding a rustic touch to kitchen cabinetry, these hinges combine practical utility with timeless aesthetic appeal. Available in a range of sizes and premium finishes, each pair is supplied with matching screws. This completes your project with an authentic and polished look.

Butterfly hinges

How Does a Butterfly Hinge Enhance My Project?
A key appeal of the butterfly hinge is its ornamental nature. Unlike standard butt hinges that are often intended to be concealed, the butterfly hinge is designed to be seen and appreciated. Its spread-wing design from the central pin creates an interesting visual feature on the surface of a door, lid, or panel.

For projects where hardware contributes to the overall style, a butterfly hinge prevents a jarring appearance. This is especially important on fine furniture, hope chests, cabinets, or decorative boxes. The precise shape and ornamental finishes vary by manufacturer. These can include scrollwork or embossing. This allows you to choose a hinge that perfectly complements your project’s era and style.

What Materials and Finishes Are Available?
Butterfly hinges are crafted from a variety of materials and finishes. These suit different design aesthetics and functional requirements.

For a truly rustic or traditional look, hand-forged iron with beeswax finish is ideal. These hinges are hand-forged on an anvil using traditional blacksmithing methods. This makes each piece unique. They are finished with hot beeswax, which provides a protective layer and creates a warm, antique patina. This finish retains the metal’s natural character, with colors ranging from blue to deep ochre.

Butterfly hinges

For applications requiring strength and corrosion resistance, stainless steel butterfly hinges are an excellent choice. They are often made from grades like SS202 or SS304. These offer durability and resistance to rust, making them suitable for interior and some protected exterior applications.

Hinges are also available in a variety of other finishes. These include satin nickel, polished brass, antique copper, matte black, and painted options. These match modern, contemporary, or specific color schemes.

What Sizes and Specifications Should I Consider?
Selecting the correct size and strength of hinge is crucial for proper function. Butterfly hinges are commonly available in sizes from 3 inches up to 6 inches.

When choosing, pay close attention to the weight rating and screw depths. Using a hinge that is too small or weak for the door or lid can cause it to sag over time. The screws are typically finished to match the hinge. They are designed to sit flush inside beveled screw holes, ensuring they are less visible.

The 3-inch small hinge has an overall size of 76mm by 51mm. The hinge arm is 35mm by 51mm. Materials include hand-forged iron and stainless steel. It is ideal for small boxes, light cabinet doors, and miniature cases.

The 4-inch medium hinge has an overall size of 102mm by 64mm. The hinge arm is 51mm by 57mm. Materials include stainless steel, iron, and brass. It is ideal for cabinet doors, medium furniture, and trunks.

The 5-inch large hinge has an overall size of 127mm by 83mm. The hinge arm is 83mm by 57mm. Materials include hand-forged iron with beeswax finish and steel. It is ideal for larger doors, desk lids, heavy cabinetry, and farmhouse furniture.

Butterfly hinges

The 6-inch heavy-duty hinge has an overall size of 152mm by 95mm. The hinge arm is 95mm by 70mm. Materials include stainless steel and powder-coated steel. It is ideal for heavy doors, gates, and large furniture pieces.

How Do I Install Butterfly Hinges?
Installation is similar to other surface-mount hinges. The hinge is typically screwed directly onto the surface of the door and the frame or cabinet face. For a professional finish, ensure the hinge is positioned accurately. This allows the door to align perfectly when closed.

The included matching screws should be driven in carefully. They should sit flush with the hinge plate. For heavier doors, it is sometimes recommended to use a pair and a half. This means three hinges provide extra strength and support.

Butterfly hinges  available in Mombasa, Kwale, Kilifi, Lamu, Mandera, Marsabit, Isiolo, Meru, Embu, Kitui, Machakos, Makueni, Nyandarua,

Nyeri, Kirinyaga, Murang’a, Kiambu, Turkana, Samburu, Trans Nzoia, Uasin, Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet, Nandi, Baringo,

Laikipia, Nakuru, Narok, Kajiado, Kericho, Bomet, Kakamega, Vihiga, Bungoma, Busia, Siaya, Kisumu, Homa Bay, Migori, Kisii, Nyamira, Nairobi.

In Nairobi you can find them at: Westlands, Dagoretti,  Lang’ata, Starehe, Kamukunji, Embakasi, and Kasarani, Kibera, Mathare,

Eastleigh, Karen, Lavington, Westlands, Parklands, Runda, South C, South, Ngong Road

In Mombasa you can find us at : Nyali, Mwembe Tayari, Majengo, Likoni ,Bamburi, Miritini