Catches and stays are an integral part of the planning and design for any workshop shed project. With these types of devices it is a good idea to first obtain a sample and understand its operation before building the project. This type of hardware may be the last items to be installed but must be included in the plans at the design stage. There are all kinds of ingenious hardware devices available with features such as nylon bearings and spring loaded magnets. Cabinet doors can be designed to spring open with just a slight touch requiring no handles at all.
The following describes just a few of the available devices:
Magnetic Touch Latch - this is a spring loaded latch that will with a slight touch release and throw open a closed door. When closing the door a gentle push will connect the keeper plate and latch and the door will click shut. Drawer Runners - the most common drawer runners are epoxy coated with nylon bearings. They come in left and right handed pairs and are available in different lengths to suit different sized drawers. They are however a consistent ½ inch wide so your drawer should always be 1 inch smaller than the inside of the cabinet or cupboard. Flap Stays - this type of stay is a relatively heavy duty fitting. They come in different lengths and are suitable for vertical and horizontal flaps. They will generally have a nylon self lubricating glide and are reversible for the left or right hand side of a unit. You might use flap stays when building a toy box or a cedar storage chest. Lid Stay - this is a light duty version of the flap stay. Used on smaller light weight boxes. Glass Shelf Supports - this is a small shelf support available in either plastic or metal. Some have a safety catch to prevent a shelf from accidentally being pushed out of place. Bed Fitting
