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Discover Versatility and Creativity With Hairpin Furniture Legs
It says it right in our name - Tablelegs.com. If there’s one thing we know back and forth, it’s table legs for your kitchen, dining room, living room, and… well, anywhere you need a table!
While most think of table legs as the classic, wood-turned styles of Country & Farmhouse fame, there’s a whole host of table legs that one can choose from to find their perfect aesthetic. Yes, many are still made from wood, however, one of the overlooked options is that of the Hairpin Leg.
Hairpin table legs came out of necessity during World War II, when materials were scarce and those that were available were put toward the war effort. Industrial Designer Henry P. Glass created these steel legs that mimicked a lady’s hairpin in style and shape. Coveted among vintage aficionados, hairpin legs are an easy way to elevate any table by adding a bit of flair. Or, pair them with our solid wood tabletops and create a one-of-a-kind piece all your own!
HAIRPIN FURNITURE LEG STYLES
Before choosing metal hairpin table legs for your project, we want to review some of the design aspects of these unique legs we offer at Tablelegs.com. Whether you're searching for hairpin leg coffee table options, a desk with hairpin legs, or even a hairpin leg dining table, we have you covered.
Multiple Lengths
For a DIY hairpin leg bench, or a hairpin leg coffee table, use the 16" Hairpin Leg. For a DIY hairpin side table, use the 24" Hairpin Leg And for DIY hairpin leg dining tables and DIY hairpin leg desks use 28" Hairpin Legs.
Cold Rolled Steel
Cold rolling steel means that the steel is squeezed and compressed during manufacturing, creating more density and increased strength in the overall product. All of the hairpin legs we offer are powder coated and made from cold rolled steel, which is stronger and lasts longer than their hot rolled steel counterparts.
2 Rod vs. 3 Rod Hairpin Legs:
When most think of a hairpin leg, they think of the classic 2-rod style, such as in our Two Rod 28" Hairpin Leg. This is the style that closely resembles a lady’s hairpin in the time they were created and is usually fine for most projects. However, if you are looking to use a heavier tabletop in your project, such as a large kitchen table or work desk, a 3-rod leg such as our Three-Rod Hairpin Leg is the way to go. These legs have a reinforcement bar built in that lends them a little more stability than the 2-rod, and will uphold better under a heavier tabletop.
Choosing a table top for hairpin legs
There are many options for tabletops when you’re using hairpin legs. Of course, you can always choose one of our ready-made Table Tops from Tablelegs.com, made from premium quality hardwood, wide plank boards, and tailored to fit your design needs. You can also repurpose a table you already own, swapping out the legs for a 2 or 3-rod hairpin design. Perhaps the most fun option is to get creative and use planks, old doors, windows - anything that you can anchor a hairpin leg to can become a tabletop! One of the perks of utilizing this style - it’s versatile enough to work with lots of different types, shapes, and styles of table tops while keeping a fun, vintage feel. Truly a unique piece you won’t find anywhere else!
Because there are no aprons, and to keep the tabletop flat and supported, think about adding Wood Cleats just inside the hairpin legs.
HOW TO INSTALL HAIRPIN LEGS
You’ve selected your legs. You’ve selected your tabletop. Now you’re ready to assemble your one-of-a-kind piece of vintage-inspired furniture to add to your collection! First, you’ll need some supplies:
- Tablelegs.com hairpin legs, screws included!
- Table top of your choosing (our selection can be found here!)
- A soft surface, such as a blanket, rug, etc.
- Measuring tape or carpenter’s square
- Pencil
- Tape, such as painters or masking tape
- A power drill with a 3/32 drill bit
- An impact driver with a #2 square-headed bit
Step 1: Prepare the table top if needed prior to assembly. Sanding, staining, finishing (may we suggest Monocoat finish?), paint, etc. - you’ll want to make sure your tabletop is completely finished, dried, and ready to go before assembly.
Step 2: Flip the tabletop upside down onto your soft surface to avoid scratching/denting/damage. Get help if needed, especially if working with a heavy tabletop!
Step 3: Measurement and placement of the legs. You want to measure the overhang for each side of each leg of the table (that is, making sure there is a 2-2 ½ inch area around the base of your leg from the edge of the table) and mark where that is with a pencil. Then, take your time to place the legs where you want them for your project - there is no right or wrong answer to your own aesthetics! Once you know where you want to position the legs, mark the screw holes in the base of the leg with your pencil. This is where you will drill.
Step 4: Take the masking tape and wrap your drill bit about ⅜ inches of the way down the bit. This is to help make sure you don’t drill through the tabletop while ensuring the depth you need for the screws. Carefully drill each of the screw holes to the proper depth, using the marks you made.
Step 5: Reposition the legs to where you want them with the screw holes in place. Use the impact driver to screw each leg securely into place. It’s best to go one leg at a time to ensure the placement is right and each leg is secure before moving on to the next.
Step 6: Flip your new table back over and enjoy it in your home!
We know you’ll love your new hairpin table in your living space. It’s truly a versatile design with the creative in mind - feel free to send us your photos of how you use our hairpin legs in your home! We love to see all of the creative variations our customers come up with! Discover the versatility and charm of hairpin furniture legs at Tablelegs.com today.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
To stabilize a table with hairpin legs, consider using additional support such as crossbars or braces underneath the tabletop. These can help distribute weight and enhance stability, especially for larger or heavier tables.
Yes, hairpin legs are commonly associated with mid-century modern design. Their sleek and minimalistic appearance became popular during the mid-20th century and has remained a timeless choice for furniture enthusiasts.
No, hairpin legs are not out of style. In fact, they have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years due to their retro appeal and versatility. Hairpin legs offer a modern and stylish look that complements various interior design aesthetics.
Hairpin legs are generally stable when used appropriately. However, stability can vary depending on factors such as the size and weight of the table, as well as the quality of the hairpin legs themselves. Adding additional support can further enhance stability.
Hairpin legs are designed to provide sturdy support for tables and other furniture. However, it is important to consider the weight capacity of the specific hairpin legs you choose. Typically, hairpin legs made from high-quality materials such as cold rolled steel can offer excellent sturdiness and durability.