How and why to use domed chair nails

DIY upholstery projects can be a fun and rewarding way to give your furniture a fresh new look. Whether you're reupholstering a beloved armchair or refurbishing a vintage sofa, using domed chair nails can add an extra touch of style to your project.

Domed chair nails, also known as upholstery tacks or furniture nails, are small decorative nails that are designed specifically for use in upholstery projects. They are typically used to attach fabric to furniture frames or to create decorative patterns on the fabric itself.

One of the great things about domed chair nails is that they come in a wide range of styles and sizes, making it easy to find the perfect ones for your project. You can choose from a variety of colours, including silver, brass, and black, as well as different finishes, such as shiny or matte.

In terms of size, domed chair nails range from very small, delicate nails to larger, more robust ones. The size you choose will depend on the look you're trying to achieve and the thickness of the fabric you're working with.

One of the key benefits of using domed chair nails in your DIY upholstery project is that they add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your finished piece. They can be used to create intricate designs or to add a subtle accent to a plain fabric.

If you're new to DIY upholstery, using domed chair nails can seem a bit daunting at first. However, with a little practice and some basic tools, you can quickly master the technique.

To get started, you'll need a few key tools, including a metal tack hammer, a pair of pliers, and a chair nail setter is handy too. You can purchase these tools, and domed nails, online at Mollies.

Before you begin, it's important to make sure your fabric is stretched tightly over your furniture frame and secured with staples or tacks (permanently or part-way inserted so you can remove them as you nail). Once your fabric is in place, you can start adding your domed chair nails. Using your pliers or space setter, hold the nail in place and use your hammer to gently tap it into the fabric. 

As you work your way around your furniture piece, be sure to space your domed chair nails evenly and in a straight line. You can use a ruler or a straight edge to help guide your placement and required gap.

If you're using domed chair nails to create a decorative pattern, you may want to sketch out your design on paper first. This will help you to visualise the pattern and ensure that your nails are placed correctly.

When you're finished adding your domed chair nails, take a step back and admire your handiwork. You'll be amazed at how much of a difference these small details can make!

In addition to their decorative benefits, domed chair nails also serve a practical purpose in upholstery projects. They help to hold the fabric in place and prevent it from shifting or bunching over time.

If you're working with a particularly thick or heavy fabric, you may want to consider using larger domed chair nails or doubling up on the nails to ensure a secure hold.

When it comes to caring for your upholstered furniture, it's important to avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals or abrasive materials that could damage the fabric or the domed chair nails. Instead, use a soft cloth or upholstery brush to remove dust and debris, and spot clean any stains as soon as they occur.

In conclusion, using domed chair nails in your DIY upholstery projects is a simple and effective way to add a touch of style and sophistication to your finished piece. With a little practice and some basic tools, you can quickly master the technique and create beautiful, custom pieces that you'll be proud off.