Some of the others will need to chime in on this but.....
Much of this is from memory of research but I'd recommend a trip to the library or on-line search for examples for the specific time period and style of the restoration project....
The proportions that I have seen do not vary much by time period. (Colonial vs Craftsman vs Victorian, etc...) The weight and span of the door/shutter determines the stock used, the length, and the number of hinges.
The width of the door/shutter x 2/3 should be the length of the hinge from the pin. (Example 2' shutter x 2/3 equals 16 inch hinges). This is functional length with at least 2/3 of the original stock useable for drifted holes for screws/nails. Any ornamentation is extra and may require additional holes for support. An addition way to attach the hinge ornamentation is to bend back sharpened sections to use as anchors. Drive into shutter/door with wood/rawhide mallet once attached.
The number of holes per hinge seems to be about 1 per 3 or 4 inches. More for wide hinges, usually staggered.
The number of hinges is at least two per side, after 4' or 5', a third is added. If extremely heavy, a 4th might be added. All hinges should be same weight of stock, either identical patterns or grouped (top/bottom with middle different, top/bottom with middle two different). The hinges need to carry the full weight of the door/shutter (Plus any ornamentation, locks, hasps, windows, bars, etc...) Number of hinges and size of stock will vary based on weight of door/shutter.
The support side of the hinge is also critical as that is what distributes the weight of the total door/shutter/hardware combination. In most cases, the number of support holes in the strap is equaled by the support holes in the support hinge. The shape and size of the anchor position will determine the shape of the hinge plate.
My best recommendation would be to find another historic house (same type, style, time period, etc...) in your area and measure the period hardware. Then verify with the interested parties that that is what they want you to make. Pictures and sketches withe dimensions will probably be required....
Hope this helps!  |