A tambour top is a type of furniture that features a raised curved wooden frame with a wooden slat covering over the top. This type of frame was used in the late 18th and early 19th centuries for wardrobes, desks, and chests.
The tambour top was constructed using a series of wooden laths that were typically bent in curved shapes and attached close together on a frame made of two or more horizontal rails and two vertical pieces at either end.
Each lath had a slot to fit over the connecting peg on the next lath, from which the name “tambour” originates (tambour is French for drum; due to the similarity in shape to a drum, with the slats acting like the drumhead that can be pulled up and down).
This construction allowed the top to be raised and lowered to access the contents inside, similar to modern sliding panels. In addition, the use of small brads was used to support the lower edges of the slats which helped to prevent them from warping and also improved their appearance.
What are the slots in a roll-top desk for?
Slots in a roll-top desk are typically used for storage. There are larger slots for items such as documents and files, and smaller slots for items such as pens, pencils, erasers, and other small personal items.
The slots may also be used to display items such as photographs, artwork, and memorabilia. The roll top provides easy access to these items and keeps them in one central location. Additionally, the slots may be used to store items such as keys or CD’s.
Roll-top desks also usually have larger compartments to store larger items such as books and magazines.
How can I make my roll top desk slide easier?
One way to make your roll top desk slide easier is to lubricate the tracks that it slides along. Depending on the type of roll top desk, there will be tracks running along the entire length of its sides.
To lubricate the tracks, purchase a lubricant designed for this type of application (a silicone or graphite lubricant, for example). First, remove the dust, dirt and other debris accumulated along the track with a vacuum cleaner or a damp cloth.
Then, apply a small amount of lubricant along the entire length of the track. Finally, slide the desk back and forth a few times to ensure that the lubricant has been evenly distributed. If your roll top desk still doesn’t slide smoothly, it may also be a good idea to invest in a good sealant to fill any gaps between the tracks and the roll top desk.
Doing this should provide you with a smoother sliding experience.
How does a roll top desk lock work?
A roll top desk typically consists of several vertical slats that are connected in sequence with a series of thin curved panels. When the panels are closed together a hollow chamber is created that is secured by a locking mechanism.
The locks typically work by having a series of teeth and slots that interact with one another when the panels are closed. When the teeth align with the slots, a pin is placed through all of the slots, locking the panels in place.
This keeps the roll top desk secure and the items stored inside safe.
How does a tambour door work?
A tambour door is a door, typically made of wood, that features multiple horizontal interlocking or overlapping slats that move within a curved track system in a coil and concertina-like fashion. This design allows the door to be opened by simply pulling it in one direction and to be closed by pushing it in the opposite direction.
Depending on the design, some tambour doors also feature a locking system that requires a key to lock and unlock the door.
The curved track system consists of an upper track and a lower track, with the interlocking or overlapping slats housed between the two tracks. Once both tracks have been installed into the doorway, the slats can then be inserted into the track system and then adjusted as needed until the door is taut.
Tambour doors offer several benefits over traditional doors, such as their space-saving design and ability to accommodate irregularly shaped spaces. The curved design also eliminates the need for bulky door hinges, door casings, or door frames, making it a great choice for those who want to make a smaller space more functional.
Additionally, tambour doors are known for their quiet and smooth operation, making them a great choice for homes, offices, and other similarly quiet environments.
What era are roll top desks?
Roll top desks are from the Victorian Era. They were popular from the mid-1800s to the early 1900s. Characterized by their distinguishing “roll top” feature, which consists of a series of flat or curved wooden slats that can be arranged and rearranged to be pulled over the top of the desk, these desks originally utilized a variety of materials, including walnut and ash.
Roll top desks also incorporated decorations, typically of hand-carved designs, to add to their aesthetic. These desks were originally designed to be aesthetically appealing while remaining functional and secure.
Popular within Secretaries, Lawyers, Bankers, and Clerks, these desks were designed to allow individuals easy access to their materials but also the ability to secure the contents away when not in use.
Are roll top desks out of style?
Roll top desks are often considered traditional in style and timeless classics, so they’ll never truly go out of style. However, in the past couple of decades, there has been a shift in furniture trends towards sleeker, minimalist designs that don’t feature many of the ornate details often found in roll top desks.
Despite this shift, roll top desks are still regularly used by people who appreciate their practicality and traditional look. Pieces with a mid-century modern or transitional style can be found to bridge the gap between classic and modern.
Ultimately, roll top desks should still be seen as an option for furnishing any home or office, but potential buyers should decide for themselves if the style suits their interior design needs.
How can I unlock my desk?
There are multiple different methods that can be used to unlock a desk, and the most suitable method for you will depend on the type of desk that you have. Generally speaking, the easiest way to unlock a desk is by simply using the key that came with the desk, if you have one.
Simply insert the key into the keyhole and turn it to open the lock. If you don’t have a key, you may need to use a locksmith to open it or use a lock picking set. If your desk has an electronic lock, you may need to enter a code in order to gain access.
You could also try various combinations of numbers or codes to see if one unlocks the desk. If you’re still struggling to open your desk, it might be best to consult with a professional.
How do I know if my desk is an antique?
To determine if your desk is an antique, look for certain characteristics that are indicative of an antique. Pay attention to the materials and the hardware used in the desk construction. Most antique desks are made of solid wood with dovetail joints, wooden pegs, and metal hardware such as locks and hinges.
Check for signs of age such as scratches, patina (a green or brown discoloration) on the metal hardware, and watermarks on the wood. Note the type of drawer pulls, which are often brass, pewter, or iron, and consider the type of wood used.
Key wood types used in antique desks include oak, walnut, rosewood, and mahogany. Finally, inspect the desk to determine whether it was made by hand or with machine-cut methods. If it was made by hand, it is likely antique.
Additionally, researching the brand or maker online may help you to identify if it is indeed an antique.
What did the author find in a junk shop?
The author found a wide variety of items in a junk shop, ranging from furniture to small trinkets. There were old chairs and couches, many of which the author was able to refinish and give new life. He also found several vintage posters for various occasions, like football games and festivals, which he was able to hang in his home.
In addition, he found a variety of interesting antiques and memorabilia, such as old photos, coins, glass bottles, and even an antique phonograph. Although most of the items he found in the junk shop were not valuable as far as monetary value, they added a unique touch to his home and made it more aesthetically appealing.