Nailhead Trim As Furniture Jewelry

Are we seeing more nailhead trim? Nailhead trim has always been an option, but we are seeing nailhead used in some new ways that is more like furniture jewelry, according to Carol Prisant writing in the February issue of House Beautiful.

"Nailhead trim is a decorative accent that is used to embelish upholstered furniture. The nailhead detail gives furniture a sophisticated look. Nailhead trim can accentuate the style of the piece, and it is usually used on arms and rails. You'll find it commonly used with leather-upholstered furniture, particularly leather sofas, chairs and ottomans.

"Nailhead trim dates back to the period of 1560-1643 and the advent of French Country Style during the reign of Louis XIII. The best-known innovation from this period is the Os de Mouton chair.



That piece marked the introduction of nailhead trim as well as upholstered backs and seats with the popular flame stitch pattern."

Prisant uses this wing chair from Mitchel Gold as an example classic nail heads to accentuate upholstery profiles. Notice how there is “air” or space left between the nailheads and no nails around the bottom edge.



Prisant uses this contemporary cabinet from Bungalow 5 to illustrate the use of nailheads as decoration.



Shown Below are more examples of the use of nailhead on a red leather wingback chair from Legacy leather


and nailhead as decoration from Sherrill.


Bev & Mike
Landfair Furniture + Design Gallery