Brass Turnbutton Fasteners?

[Bark]

Anyone have a source for brass (not nickel plated) turnbutton fasteners of the type used for fabric hatch covers? Or, alternatively, ideas for traditional hardware to use for these covers? I know they're small, but I really don't like to use stainless/chrome stuff if I can help it. Thanks.

Ben

[dredbob]

When you say "not nickel plated" I assume that you mean not nickel plated brass. Is this correct?

Bob

[Bark]

Correct, Bob. Basically, I'm looking for something that is just brass, not plated, or chromed, or whatever. I like the look of brass or bronze over stainless or chrome. Most of what I have seen so far is brass, but with a nickel plating.

I have seen where the nickel plating eventually wears off anyway, but it takes years ...

Ben

[rbgarr]

You might try asking your question on Brion Toss's forum or from some of the folks on the other links here: http://www.boat-links.com/linklists/boatlink-37.html

[Thorne]

Traditionally weren't fabric/canvas hatch covers laced into place, or laced over battens? Just how trad do you want?

;0 )

Plain brass sure turns green when exposed to saltwater, which is why something made of brass that relies on friction would be nickel-plated to ensure that it functions.

[Bark]

Thanks for the suggestion, rb. I contacted Gambell and Hunter sailmakers up in Camden, and Grant has already gotten back to me - he may have a line on what I'm looking for.

Ben

[Bark]

Hey, Thorne. The laced battens option would probably be overkill traditional on my boat. I do like the green, but the functionality issue is worth pondering. Assuming I can find plain brass, maybe just keep them well lubed?

[Nanoose]

Bark - please pass along a source when you find one. Thanks.

[Bark]

I think I've got it, thanks to Grant at Gambell and Hunter Sailmakers:

Astrup Company
800-786-7602

Lacquer Brass Turnbutton (Curtain) Fasteners (2-screw base, std. height)
Item #XB78322

Lac. Brass Eyelet (for fabric): Item #BS78505
Lac. Brass Washer (fabric): Item #BS78403

Only problem is Astrup won't sell to me directly (I'm not a business). They did give me some business contacts in my area, though.

[mike hanyi]

If you can find 3/8 inch half round strip in brass just cut to length, round the ends up and drill and countersink the screw- you can make them exactly the length you need and polish them as much as you wish.

mike

[sawcutmill]

try www.leevalley.com , too ! they have an incredible hardware selection for hundreds of other uses.pages an pages of hinges, pulls, racks,jigs, supplies, and some very clever rare earth magnet closures....