Author: Carl Benson

Carl is the founder of Suffolk Latch Company, with a background in engineering and over 20 years' experience in home hardware. He works closely with suppliers and designers to develop quality ironmongery. Read Carl's full bio.

A Complete Guide to Traditional Butterfly Hinges

Introduction

Butterfly hinges are one of the most recognisable forms of traditional hinge, valued for their distinctive shape and visible decorative detail.

Named for their symmetrical wings, they were a popular choice in cottages, farmhouses and early furniture, where hardware was meant to be seen as part of the design.

Today, butterfly hinges remain a practical choice for period interiors, especially when made by hand using traditional blacksmithing methods.

Explore our full collection of traditional hand-forged door hardware or browse our range of butterfly hinges.

Table of Contents

1. What are butterfly hinges?
2. What is the history of butterfly hinges?
3. How do hand-forged butterfly hinges differ from modern versions?
4. How do you install butterfly hinges?
5. What finishes and materials are available?
6. How do you maintain butterfly hinges?
7. Where are butterfly hinges best used?
8. What are the benefits of traditional butterfly hinges?
9. FAQ
10. Conclusion

What Are Butterfly Hinges?

Butterfly hinges are decorative surface-mounted hinges shaped like a butterfly's wings.

Each hinge consists of two leaves joined by a central pin, allowing the door or lid to swing open smoothly.

They are designed to be visible rather than hidden, adding decorative detail to furniture, cupboards and internal doors.

They come in two main designs: half butterfly hinges and full butterfly hinges.

Half butterfly hinges are well suited to kitchen cupboards and cabinets, where the rectangular section sits neatly on narrow door surrounds.

Full butterfly hinges are more decorative and work well on chests, shutters and larger cupboard doors where there is enough surface area to display the full wing design.

Full Butterfly Hinge in Black Beeswax

Half Butterfly Hinge in Black Beeswax

What Is the History of Butterfly Hinges?

Butterfly hinges date back to medieval blacksmithing traditions.

Early examples appeared on oak furniture and small doors during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Their winged shape developed from practical strap hinges, giving carpenters a smaller decorative alternative.

During the Victorian period, cast iron and brass butterfly hinges became popular on cabinetry and fitted furniture.

Today, the same patterns are reproduced for heritage restoration, cottages and period-style interiors.

Full Butterfly Hinge in Pewter

Half Butterfly Hinge in Pewter

How Do Hand-Forged Butterfly Hinges Differ from Modern Versions?

Hand-forged hinges are made by heating and hammering mild steel on an anvil to form the wings and knuckle.

Each piece shows slight variations and visible hammer marks, giving it a more authentic traditional appearance.

Modern machine-made versions are usually stamped or cast, creating a more uniform result.

For restoration work or traditional joinery, hand-forged butterfly hinges are often preferred for their period accuracy and individual finish.

How Do You Install Butterfly Hinges?

Butterfly hinges are surface-mounted, so installation is simpler than fitting morticed butt hinges.

• Mark the hinge positions on the door and frame.
• Place one hinge near the top and one near the bottom for cupboards or light doors.
• Align the central pin with the edge of the door to allow smooth movement.
• Mark and drill pilot holes for the screws.
• Fix one leaf to the door first, checking that it sits flat.
• Attach the second leaf to the frame or cabinet.
• Check that the hinge pins form a straight vertical line.
• Test the door movement before fully tightening the screws.

Because butterfly hinges are visible, take care to keep both wings level and evenly positioned.

Hand forged H hinge in pewter finish

Hand forged H hinge in black beeswax finish finish

What Finishes and Materials Are Available?

Traditional butterfly hinges are usually made from mild steel or wrought iron.

Common finishes include black beeswax and pewter patina, both of which work well with other hand-forged door hardware.

The black beeswax finish gives a low-sheen surface for interior doors and cupboards.

Pewter highlights the texture of the forge marks and offers a softer silver-grey appearance.

Modern decorative versions may also be produced in cast iron, brass or plated steel.

Privacy latch in pewter finish

Privacy latch in black beeswax

How Do You Maintain Butterfly Hinges?

Maintenance is simple.

For black beeswax hinges, the finish is applied to help protect the product during storage and transit.

Before installation, any excess wax can be removed with a gentle solvent such as white spirit or WD-40. Avoid stronger cleaners, as they may strip the coating back to the base metal.

Once cleaned, buff the hinge with a soft cloth to achieve a low sheen.

After fitting, an occasional light coating of clear beeswax can help preserve the surface.

If light rust appears, remove it with fine steel wool before reapplying wax.

Pewter-finish hinges usually only need wiping with a damp cloth.

If a hinge begins to squeak, apply a drop of light oil or a small amount of wax to the pin.

Penny end pull 6 inch pewter

Penny end pull 6 inch black beeswax

Where Are Butterfly Hinges Best Used?

Butterfly hinges are best suited to interior furniture and joinery where the hardware remains visible.

They are commonly used on cupboards, cabinets, wardrobe doors, shutters and small plank doors.

In period properties, they work well on kitchen cabinetry, built-in storage and lightweight internal doors where visible decorative hardware is desired.

Their shape makes them particularly effective in cottage and farmhouse interiors, especially when paired with traditional fittings such as Suffolk latches or hand-forged bolts.

For exterior use, choose a weather-protected location such as a covered porch, as mild steel hinges will oxidise if exposed directly to rain.

What Are the Benefits of Traditional Butterfly Hinges?

Traditional butterfly hinges provide a secure pivot while also adding visible decorative detail.

Because they are surface-mounted, they are easier to fit than recessed hinges and require fewer tools.

Their symmetrical shape works well with painted and natural timber finishes.

When hand-forged, each hinge carries the marks of the blacksmith's work, adding authenticity to restoration projects and heritage interiors.

T bar latch set in pewter finish

T bar latch set in beeswax finish

FAQ

Can Butterfly Hinges Be Used on Heavy Doors?

They are best suited to light and medium-weight doors.

For heavier doors, consider using T hinges or strap hinges that spread the load across a larger surface.

Do Butterfly Hinges Need to Be Morticed?

No. Butterfly hinges are surface-mounted, making them simpler to install than butt hinges.

Only pilot holes for screws are required.

Are Butterfly Hinges Reversible?

Yes. Most butterfly hinges are symmetrical, allowing them to be fitted on either side of the door or cabinet.

Conclusion

Butterfly hinges offer practical movement and decorative detail, making them ideal for cottages, conversions and traditional furniture.

Their distinctive form adds interest to doors and cabinetry while maintaining period accuracy.

Available in pewter and beeswax finishes, they are a good choice for internal joinery where traditional visible hardware is required.

Explore our full butterfly hinge collection to find the right design and finish for your project.

External Link

Guidance for Heritage Ironwork - National Heritage Ironwork Group