secretary hinges

**nosnomolos** · 05-16-2011, 09:20 PM

Hello, obviously, I'm a newbie. I did do a search for my question and found one post that addressed it, but I'd like to build on that original post.

I am building this secretary. Her instructions say to "Fasten the flip down door with the inset euro style hinges, meant for frameless cabinets", then to use with "support hinges".

A quick google search showed me one set from Amazon. Would you people with more experience than me agree that this plus, say, this or this would be a good way to go?

tia.

**deepsplinter** · 05-17-2011, 06:52 AM

That design will work. Just keep in mind that it won't support much weight.

"Fasten the flip down door with the inset euro style hinges, meant for frameless cabinets"
(keywords underlined)

The support hinges? I'd look for something like that, but longer. The longer it is, the more weight it will support without splitting the lid. Make sure you order a "right" and a "left".

(I didn't get anything with the Rockler link, so I can't comment on it)

That looks like a good starter project. Good luck with it and don't forget about our "Completed Projects" forum.

**nosnomolos** · 05-17-2011, 11:09 AM

Dave, thank you so much. A few questions:

1. "Just keep in mind that it won't support much weight." What is "much weight"? Are you referring to the actual secretary or to my proposed hinge system?

2. Ana White's plans don't require you to know much about "real" woodworking, which is nice for folks like me. How could you tell by just looking that it won't support much weight?

3. Sorry about the Rockler link, it works fine for me. I was referring to the Silentia® Frameless Soft-Closing Concealed Hinges, if that helps.

**nosnomolos** · 05-17-2011, 11:16 AM

On 2nd thought...would flap hinges work when combined with supports? Like these? I hope this link works this time.

**FrankC** · 05-17-2011, 11:39 AM

Originally Posted by nosnomolos

On 2nd thought...would flap hinges work when combined with supports? Like these? I hope this link works this time.

The door would have to be mounted on the outside of the cabinet not inside the frame as shown.
http://www.rockler.com/tech/29447-454.pdf

Strongest hinge would be the suggested alternative piano hinge, other wise only a few small screws will be holding the weight of the open shelf.

**nosnomolos** · 05-17-2011, 01:15 PM

Thanks!
Would I still need support hinges with the piano hinge?

**FrankC** · 05-17-2011, 07:46 PM

Originally Posted by nosnomolos

Thanks!
Would I still need support hinges with the piano hinge?

Yes, the piano hinge only holds back edge of shelf, you still need to have something to support the front.

**deepsplinter** · 05-17-2011, 08:39 PM

I would trust any of the hinges mentioned above, but the piano hinge would definitely be the strongest choice.

My main concern would be the screw holding the support hinge onto the door. A screw shot into the edge of plywood "just ain't much." If you plan to use it for something light (computer keyboard, maybe), it should be alright. But, if it was mine, I would edge band (glue a solid wood strip) to the sides of the door. That would give you something solid to hold that screw.

**cabinetman** · 05-19-2011, 10:47 AM

The flap hinges work very well with drop lids. They have adjustment whereas the piano hinge doesn't. A drop lid support like this offers a controlled drop, and good support...more than sufficient for writing/reading, not for standing or sitting on.