Glass cabinet doorknobs have been a favorite for nearly 200 years.
Glass cabinet doorknobs have been a favorite choice of homeowners for nearly 200 years. They remain a popular finishing touch in the kitchen and bathroom, and, because they've endured over the years, finding a style to match your home and your decor is easy. From Victorian to Art Deco, there is a glass knob for every taste. Does this Spark an idea?
History
Glass knobs were very rare until a process for pressing molten glass into a form was developed in 1826. The press molds were made from cast iron. Moldsmiths would hand carve the precise geometric patterns into the iron, and the hot liquid glass would be poured into the mold. Early glass knobs had between six and 12 facets, or edges. A piece of mirrored paper or cardboard would be inserted into the back of the knob to better reflect the light, allowing the unique starburst effect in the center of the knob to be shown.
Types
A hexagon shaped knob was an early favorite.
The Colonial-Revival era made ample use of the octagon shape, and knobs were made from leaded glass. Early colors were amber, violet, milk white and vaseline, a yellow-green color. From 1900-1940, the hexagonal shape was a favorite. Some square glass knobs were made from 1860-1920 for use in mission-style or arts-and-crafts furniture. The famous Hoosier cupboards, manufactured in Indiana beginning in 1910, have hexagonal, clear knobs. A rare diamond-cut knob is available for formal settings.
Features
Glass knobs are made from clear or colored glass and are usually faceted. Today's knobs can be either glass or crystal and range in size from one inch to 2 3/16 inches. Drawer pulls are also available, with facets on either side and a 3 inch span. The older knobs have a screw that passes through the entire knob. In 1921, Charles Overmyer patented a new type of knob that had a threaded neck, thereby eliminating the evidence of a screw. The end of the neck is exposed, bringing more light into play, showing off the glass knob to its best advantage. The typical design has no sharp edges, is easily grasped, has a texture to the finish and the shaft is long enough to easily accommodate fingers being placed behind it.
Considerations
Although the temptation is to find antique knobs for your kitchen or bath, it is hard to find enough of the same type to take care of the needs of today's kitchen. Reproduction knobs may not have the same look in the glass, but they are available in vintage colors and you can buy as many of the same type as you need.
Cost
Reproduction prices range from $2.50 to $9.50 per knob (2010 prices). Antique prices vary widely, some costing as much as $50 per knob.
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