1

I'm building a chest (about 3' wide, 2' deep, 2' tall) where the front folds up over the top (270 degrees), then the front/top fold again to the back (another 270 degrees). I need to know how best to latch it closed.

I'd like the latch to be spring loaded. It does not need to lock. I would like it to latch itself when the chest is closed, rather than needing to pull the spring back then move the front into place.

I was thinking of something along the lines of a laptop lid, where there's a hook that latches itself when closed, and a lever to slide the hook out of the way so it can open. The catch plate would be on the bottom, and it would latch when the top/front is put down (rather than the front being swung into place alone). I wasn't able to find anything like it online, probably because I have no idea what it's called.

The other idea I had would be to use something like a door latch on both bottom corners, which would latch when the front is swung into place. Instead of a knob, you would slide the latch open. Like this but furniture quality.

I really do not want something industrial/utility looking like this.

Can you help me locate something like what I'm looking for (or something better I haven't thought of)?

(I don't know much about hardware terminology, so please forgive me...)

Improve this question

2 Answers 2

Reset to default
2

Sounds like you want something like a tambour door lock like this:

Tambour Door Lock

You can find it here.

Improve this answer
2
  • that's very close. do they make something similar that slides instead of turns? and/or without a key?
    – Jon Slaven
    Commented Jun 20, 2011 at 2:12
  • Tried, but couldn't quickly find anything without a lock. You'd think someone would make one with a knob instead of a lock. You could try a window sash lock. A little bulky, but that might work.
    – billoreid
    Commented Jun 24, 2011 at 13:08
0

How strong does the catch need to be? Would Rare Earth Magnets suffice? You could counter sink them into the wood and super glue or Epoxy them in place. I would recommend a very strong glue because these magnets are ridiculously powerful.

Improve this answer
1
  • Thanks for your response Bernhard. It really has to be a physical latch, I'd be afraid it would open if it were being moved and the contents shifted.
    – Jon Slaven
    Commented Mar 1, 2011 at 14:30

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge you have read our privacy policy.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.