Woodworking hardware is used to add functionality and connect different parts of a wood product. This hardware is not the same as woodworking tools. While tools are designed to modify and shape wood, hardware is intended to hold completed pieces of wood together. Hardware can be categorized into several types, including fasteners, door and lock components, drawer hardware, and caster hardware.
Fastener hardware is used to bind loose pieces of woodworking. Nails and screws are the most common fastener varieties. Adhesives such as wood glue are also classified as fasteners. These simple fasteners are important parts of any woodworking project. All fastener hardware uses friction to limit the movement of different pieces, and prevent boards from coming loose.
Door hardware enables different parts of a woodworking product to easily open and close. Hinges are a type of articulating door hardware that can rotate while still providing a solid connection. Door knobs create a convenient handhold for moving doors, and allow moving parts to latch tightly when not in use.
Many woodworking projects such as cabinets and closets contain items that need to be kept secure. Lock hardware is designed to keep doors closed and safe from unauthorized access. Basic lock hardware uses a bolt that prevents the door from moving when engaged. A unique key must be used to disengage the bolt and open the door. Childproof lock hardware requires manual dexterity to unlatch a door, and keeps young children from getting into an unsafe storage cabinet.
When a woodworking project needs an part to slide out and away from the rest of the unit, drawer hardware is used. This type of woodworking hardware uses rails mounted horizontally to guide rollers, and a safety stop to prevent a drawer from falling. Drawer hardware is frequently installed on products such as office desks, kitchen cabinets, and bedroom sets.
Caster hardware is often installed on the bottom of products, and allows a heavy object to be easily moved. This type of hardware has wheels that can swivel in all directions. Casters make moving items convenient. They enable people to roll a woodworking item with minimal effort. Rolling casters are common on kitchen islands, bedroom dressers, and other large objects.