What Is a Butterfly Leaf?

Traditional table leafs can be big, heavy and cumbersome to use and store. The design of the butterfly table leaf addresses many of these concerns. Butterfly leafs are self-storing table extensions that simply fold away within the table itself when not in use. This feature allows the owner to quickly transform a small table to a larger dining surface to accommodate extra guests. Does this Spark an idea?

Function

The butterfly leaf takes its name from the way that the table extension opens up. The table must first be pulled open at each end, revealing the self-storing leaf in the center. When stored, the hinged leaf is folded in two like a resting butterfly. By sliding the leaf upward and opening it at the center hinge, the two sides of the leaf take on the appearance of butterfly wings ready for flight. The final step is to fully extend the leaf in the center of the table and push either end of the table snug.

History

The butterfly leaf is an American invention, originating in New England between 1680 and 1730. These tables were generally square, rectangular or oval in shape. Round butterfly leaf tables were rarely made. Furniture craftsmen in small villages throughout Connecticut created most of these tables.

Benefits

The benefits of the butterfly leaf would seem to be obvious. These devices eliminate the need to scramble around before the company arrives trying to remember where the standard leaf was stored. The ability to store the leaf within the table itself is a major selling point. Other tables with self-storing leaves such as the gate leg table have the disadvantage of needing so many extra legs that can restrict the movement of diners. The butterfly leaf offers no such limitations since it requires no extra legs.

Types

Whether antique or brand new, the butterfly leaf can be found in several different types of tables. Some tables feature a combination of leaf types. The combination drop leaf and butterfly leaf table offers multiple opportunities for expansion. Newly manufactured butterfly leaf tables can be found in the standard, four legged variety. Single pedestal butterfly leaf tables are also available as are counter height tables that feature this unusual leaf.

Antique

Antique butterfly leaf tables can be hard to find. This rarity serves to increase the value. Examples of antique tables with butterfly leaves are usually made of cherry or maple. Pine was used as well, although not as frequently. In some cases, a combination of woods might have been used. These tables were usually painted with a red paint to disguise the different types of woods that were used. Refinishing an antique butterfly leaf table in a way that removes the original red paint can greatly decrease the value of the piece.