Penny Nails

 

Nailed It! The Hilarious History and Handy Tips for Penny Nails

Ever wondered why carpenters are always yammering on about 16d common nails or 8d finish nails, but nobody ever spills the beans on what the heck 'd' means? Well, grab your tool belt and buckle up, because we're about to nail down the details!

The Great Nail Mystery

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away (okay, it was 15th-century England), there was a bustling village full of hardworking carpenters. These carpenters were always in a heated debate about the best nails to use for their projects. One day, a young apprentice named Timmy decided he had enough of the confusion and set out to uncover the truth behind the mysterious 'd' in nail sizes.

Timmy wandered into the village marketplace, where he found Old Man Jenkins, the wisest carpenter in the land. "Old Man Jenkins," Timmy asked, "why do we call them 16d nails? What does the 'd' even mean?"

Old Man Jenkins chuckled and said, "Ah, young Timmy, let me tell you a tale. You see, back in the day, nails were priced by the cost of a 'long hundred'—that's 120 nails. The 'd' stands for 'denarius,' which was a Roman coin and also the name for an English penny. So, a 16d nail would have cost 16 pennies for a hundred of them."

Timmy's eyes widened. "So, it's all about money?"

"Exactly!" Old Man Jenkins replied. "The penny number indicated the price of 120 nails of that size. Bigger nails cost more, just like how a supersized meal costs more at the tavern."

Timmy was amazed. "But why do we still use this system today?"

Old Man Jenkins shrugged. "Some traditions just stick around, like Aunt Mildred's fruitcake at Christmas."

The Modern-Day Nail Saga

Fast forward to today, and we're still using this ancient system to designate nail sizes. A 16d nail is typically 3 1/2 inches long, perfect for those heavy-duty projects. Other common sizes include 6d (2 inches), 8d (2 1/2 inches), and 20d (4 inches). It's like a secret code that only carpenters understand.

Fun Fact: Nail Size and Weight

Did you know that the weight of nails was also a factor in their pricing? Heavier nails cost more because they required more material to produce. So, if you ever feel like your nails are weighing you down, just remember—they're worth their weight in pennies!

But How Long Have Nails Really Been Around?

Nails have been around for a very long time—since ancient times, in fact! Archeologists have found nails in Egypt dating back to around 3,400 B.C. These early nails were made of bronze and had a similar shape and design to the nails we use today. So, the next time you're hammering away, just think—you’re continuing a tradition that’s thousands of years old!

Why You Should Care About Nail Sizes

Understanding nail sizes can make a big difference in your construction projects. Here's why you should care:

1. Strength and Stability Different nail sizes are designed for different tasks. Using the right size ensures that your project is strong and stable. For example, a 16d nail is perfect for framing because it's long and sturdy, while a smaller 6d nail is better for lighter tasks like attaching trim.
2. Preventing Damage Using the wrong size nail can damage your materials. A nail that's too long might split the wood, while one that's too short won't hold things together properly. Knowing the right size helps you avoid these issues.
3. Efficiency When you use the correct nail size, your work goes more smoothly. You won't have to redo parts of your project because the nails didn't hold, saving you time and frustration. And let's be honest, who wants to spend their weekend fixing a wobbly bench?
4. Professional Results Using the right nail size gives your project a professional finish. It ensures that everything is securely fastened and looks neat, which is especially important for visible parts of your work. Impress your friends and family with your carpentry skills!
5. Cost-Effectiveness Choosing the right nail size can also save you money. You won't waste nails by using the wrong ones, and your project will last longer, reducing the need for repairs. More money for snacks and celebratory drinks!
6. Safety Properly sized nails ensure that your structures are safe. Whether it's a piece of furniture or a part of your home, using the right nails helps prevent accidents and injuries. Because nobody wants a surprise visit to the ER.

So there you have it! Next time you're at the hardware store and someone asks you about 16d nails, you can drop some historical knowledge and maybe even get a few laughs. And speaking of 16d nails, why not put that knowledge to good use with a fun DIY project?

DIY Rustic Wooden Bench

Materials Needed:

• 16d nails (16 penny nails)
• Wooden planks (2x4s and 2x6s)
• Hammer
• Saw
• Measuring tape
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint (optional)
• Wood glue

Steps:

1. Measure and Cut the Wood:

• Cut two 2x6 planks to 48 inches for the seat.

• Cut four 2x4 planks to 18 inches for the legs.

• Cut two 2x4 planks to 48 inches for the supports.

2. Assemble the Legs:

• Attach two 18-inch 2x4s together to form a leg using wood glue and 16d nails. Repeat for the other three legs.

3. Attach the Supports:

• Position the legs at each end of the 48-inch 2x4 supports. Secure them with wood glue and 16d nails.

4. Attach the Seat:

• Place the 48-inch 2x6 planks on top of the supports. Secure them with wood glue and 16d nails.

5. Sand and Finish:

• Sand the bench to smooth out any rough edges.

• Apply wood stain or paint if desired.

6. Enjoy Your Bench:

• Let the glue dry completely before using your new rustic wooden bench.

This project is perfect for beginners and adds a charming rustic touch to any space. Plus, you'll get to show off your newfound knowledge of 16 penny nails! 

Need Supplies? 

We've Got You Covered!

So, next time you're working on a project, take a moment to consider the nail size. It might seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference in the quality and durability of your work. 

You can get all your lumber and nails at Calumet Lumber. Just email sales@calumetlumber.com or call 219-397-0254. Tell them the construction newbie sent you—they might even throw in a few extra nails for good measure!