How to Install a Piano Hinge for a Flat Surface

Piano hinges are long, continuous hinges that are not only used in pianos but also on box lids, benches and various door sizes. The piano hinge was invented to attach the heavy lid securely to the top of a grand piano which, when open and propped up, amplifies the sound output of the instrument. Of the many advantages, piano hinges are stronger and easier to align than two or more shorter butt hinges.

Wood pieces to be joined
Piano hinge sized to joint
Electric drill
Drill bit, 5/64-inches
Screws, 3/8-inches

Instructions

- 1
  Become familiar with how a continuous hinge works. The two separate parts are joined together by a long pin that runs through each knuckle the length of the hinge. It holds the hinge securely but enables the parts to move back and forth freely. See that the screws are the proper length so that, when tightened, they do not stick out on the other side of the board.
- 2
  Lay the two pieces to be hinged side by side on a flat surface spaced from 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch. Make sure that the pieces are square and lined up with each other. Place the sides of the hinge, that have the screw holes, on both pieces to be hinged with the knuckles facing downward in the space provided.
- 3
  Mark each hole of the hinge with a pencil and drill a couple of screw holes in each leaf. Make fast the screws except for the final turns. Open and shut the hinge to check for satisfactory movement and alignment. Make minor adjustment, if necessary.
- 4
  Drill the remaining holes and screw in firmly all screws. Move the hinge again for a final
  check.

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