Upholstery Nails Types and Styles

Upholstery nails come in a variety of types and styles

By Heidi Crossman
Upholstery nails all perform the same function of securing fabric to furniture. The fact that there are a variety of types of nails to perform this function makes this same tool versatile for a scale of applications. Depending on the desired application, several choices have to be made to determine the right nail to use.

Upholstery nails types and styles are categorized as either industrial upholstery nails or decorative nails. Both kinds come in a selection of sizes. Preference or usage will help in the decision of what the chosen nails will be made of. Common materials include:

1. Copper upholstery nails

2. Chrome upholstery nails

3. Brass upholstery nails

 

Look at industrial upholstery nails

Traditional or plain upholstery nails have an important use as the "behind the scenes" tool to holding furniture together. These tacks, made with a slanted sharp point and flat upholstery nail heads, are not meant to be seen once the furniture project is finished. They are mostly hidden on the backs and bottoms of furniture.
Try: King Richard Company sells their upholstery nails in large quantity sets. Other companies prefer to sell nails by the pound. For fast and easy work, Massasoit/Tackband and other suppliers offer an upholstery nail strip. This handy product hold the fabric in place and requires the use of fewer nails, which means fewer nail holes and a stronger piece of furniture.

Find upholstery decorative nails

Decorative upholstery nails are multifunctional. Unlike plain upholstery nails, they hold the fabric in place and are meant to be seen. They are often placed on the fronts of furniture in plain site, like on the backrest or even the seat of a couch or chair. Made into fancy shapes using various materials, these nails are meant to impress.
Try: Greentex displays a selection of decorative nails. A sample card, showing a huge choice of decorative nails, can be obtained from DIY Upholstery Supply.

Determine the appropriate size of upholstery nail you need

The nails come in different sizes. Smaller nails are used for smaller pieces of furniture while the larger nails are reserved for a bigger piece like a sofa. Using the right size tack for the job is important so as to have the highest quality work without causing damage to the frame.
Try: Turner & Seymour gives a full selection of nails. Your choice starts with what material the tacks are made of. From there, select the size that most adequately fits your needs, including shank length and head diameter. J A Milton Upholstery Supplies gives tips and information on choosing the size of upholstery tacks and nails to use.