December 12, 2014
These steel window pulls were restored for the Mississippi State Capitol building in Jackson, Mississippi. Under the name ‘Olde Iron’, we recreate the historic Bower-Barff finish utilizing
July 18, 2014
Here is a Before and After of a clock we restored and gold plated for one of our high quality clients.
We are very pleased with how well our hard work, and strong attention to detail, translated into
July 10, 2014
Here’s a neat shot of a trophy we cleaned up for the Colorado Avalanche from the ’95-’96 Stanley Cup. If you look close enough you can see a familiar name of the one and only Coach Q
April 24, 2013
Wilmette Hardware’s own custom ribbon & reed knobs and rosettes for a Chicago client.
April 17, 2013
This good looking hardware utilizes our eight-sided glass knobs and rosettes from our inventory. Both are nickel plated and polished.
March 20, 2013
Here is the artistically innovating design process of a unique carriage mold. Based on photo, the mold is than sketched, hand carved, caster, and finally plated with 24k gold.
March 1, 2013
These antique clock parts look brand new once plated with 24 karat gold.
February 26, 2013
It takes heavy cleaning to prepare jobs like this for finishing. As you can see, the work is worth it. With a verdigris finish, you have a beautifully restored product.
February 13, 2013
It takes patience, focus, and steady hands to complete a job like this, Joe and Alfonso make it look easy. The finished product, a beautiful silver leaf fixture.
January 27, 2013
This is a project where we used a blend of new replication hardware and salvage hardware to complete a historically sensitive addition. This photo of the new kitchen with calcutta and rift white
January 23, 2013
Here’s a before and after of a neat looking Spelter Newel Post Lamp. After rewiring, repairing and antique bronze polishing with a clear coat lacquer, this lamp looks like new!
October 10, 2012
These before and after photos are of two brass and polished nickel tables that were recovered from the devastating Katrina hurricane in New Orleans. They were an absolute disaster when they arrived at
October 10, 2012
Check out our own Wilmette Hardware farmhouse cabinet knobs in polished nickel – elegance!
They are being supplied with screws and finish washers also in polished nickel for a finishing touch.
October 10, 2012
These good looking paumelle hinges were polished nickel for one of our customers located in New York.
July 18, 2012
Here is a before and after of a repair we did on a rare antique cigar cutter. Our craftsman have the ability to make almost any damage disappear.
January 10, 2012
All it takes is a good cleaning and polishing to restore this sterling silver tray to it’s original grandeur. The trick is not to effect it’s intricate monogram – you can trust yo
January 7, 2012
If you ever thought of taking apart that old brass bed – don’t even think about it! It’s quite a bit tougher than if looks. Every piece is taken apart, individually polished, lac
January 4, 2012
You don’t see these beautiful wedgewood door knobs very often. We gave this customer’s hardware a softer finish that we call “butler brass”. A final finish of clear lacquer
January 1, 2012
Here is a before / after of a fire screen and andiron set that we restored in polished nickel. The screen and dogs were given a fresh coat of high heat paint.
December 29, 2011
This custom wine cellar door was designed and built to showcase this beautiful cabinetry. The oil rubbed bronze finish gives it that old world look – all it need is a big old lock with a skele
December 26, 2011
Great hardware like this ornate front door hardware did not need a lot of help. A good cleaning, polishing and a coat of low luster clear lacquer was all that was needed.
December 23, 2011
Having a problem finding hardware to match the existing finish? Here are some crystal knobs that we did in satin antique nickel to go with the great ornate lever our customer supplied.
December 20, 2011
Recessed pulls are great for those tight spaces – custom depths can also be provided if needed.
December 17, 2011
This custom mail slot in solid brass includes an inside sleeve and frame. Send us your dimensions and let us fabricate it to your specifications. We also do a milled outside edge that is killer!
December 14, 2011
Our customer wanted to give these authentic railroad ties as gifts but wanted a finish that popped.
December 11, 2011
This table was given a warm light antique polished nickel finish. Check out all the bins of vintage hardware in the background. Chances are we have what your looking for.
December 8, 2011
We polished this beautiful ornate vegetable dish preserving it’s great detail then gave it new life with a new silver plate finish. Ready for the holidays!
December 5, 2011
Did you ever find that perfect shower drain only to find that it does not come in your finish? This is a set that we finished from satin chrome to polished nickel.
December 2, 2011
Our shop will be closed Saturday Dec. 24th and will re-open for business on Mon. January 2nd.
Your friends at Al Bar Wilmette Platers / Wilmette Hardware wish you and yours, a very Merry Christmas and
November 29, 2011
Now that’s a tray! When we took in this tray, it was separating at the rim. After soldering the open areas, it was polished with care in order to preserve it’s ornate detail. A finia
November 26, 2011
Here is a verde lantern that we restored by fabricating the scrolling and arms that had deteriorated over the years.
November 23, 2011
Great hardware is just a pleasure to work with! We cleaned and polished their bronze hardware leaving it un-lacquered so they can age naturally. We also are also fabricating additional cremone bol
November 20, 2011
This custom rim lock is in an antique burnished silver finish and is at home in a Chicago apartment.
November 17, 2011
The matte black finish on this rim lock really makes the polished brass knob and trim pop.
November 14, 2011
Here is the outside of a rim lock install. What a classic clean look with only a knob, rosette and lidded cylinder cover!
November 11, 2011
Rim Locks originated and are more prevalent on the east coast. This one in satin nickel was made for a customer here in the mid-west. Check out the drop pull handle that is on the inside. The o
May 28, 2011
This magnificent candelabra was polished and given a coat of clear lacquer. Our customer could hardly believe his eyes when it was picked up.
May 10, 2011
Here is a before and after of a brass and porcelain chandelier that we gave a butler finish (not highly polished). We also rewired the entire fixture and gave it new sockets and candle covers.
April 16, 2011
This huge german nickel sink is used every day in our customer’s Hyde Park home. We replaced the bottom of the basins with german silver along with its wood framing. Finally, it was polished
March 25, 2011
These two pieces from a seth thomas clock were first given a satin silver finish. We then painted the lettering and numbers in black to match the original.
March 21, 2011
We actually received this beautiful wedding cake fixture in a couple of boxes all in pieces. The brass was given a butler finish, the crystal was cleaned and the fixture was assembled piece by piece
March 17, 2011
Did you know that we perform all kinds of repairs on mortise locks? Here is a broken casing that we were able to piece together and solder. Make sure to check out all of our hardware restoration s
March 13, 2011
This is an original bell from the new york central railroad. It was a retirement gift in recognition for service from 1908 to 1957! The frame was cleaned and painted while the bell and plaque were
March 9, 2011
Here is a before and after of a great collection of copper and brass lanterns. After a good polishing and lacquered finish, these lanterns are back to their original luster for years to come.
March 5, 2011
Here is an actual ship port hole that we polished and lacquered. I was amazed at how heavy it was – close to 50 pounds!
February 3, 2011
This is our berghuis cabinet knob from our wilmette hardware collection in polished nickel. Check our our berghuis pull along with our extensive collection of cabinet hardware at: http://www.wilmet
January 18, 2011
We restored this great two piece cast iron floor grate by giving it a new brass finish. High heat paint was utilized on the internal vent flaps. Did you know that we have the ability to repair bro
January 14, 2011
Here is a vintage medicine cabinet that our customer wanted to use in his office. He supplied us with the chair pad as a color sample. The top and handles were painted utilizing fine paints of eur
January 10, 2011
Sometimes all your hardware may need is just a good cleaning, as we did with these fantastic bronze window locks.
January 6, 2011
These are our own wilmette hardware custom george cabinet and appliance pulls in a satin nickel finish. They are available in various sizes and would be a great compliment to our george cabinet knob
December 29, 2010
We fabricated these custom “octopus” curtain rod finials for a boat builder in wisconsin. They wanted something that would compliment the cabin’s nautical theme. It was given a b
December 25, 2010
It’s not often that I get worked up over a counter bracket, but check this one out! They just do not make them like this any more. We take pride in maintaining a parts original details when
December 21, 2010
Our client was in need of this visual comfort chandelier in a polished nickel finish however, it was only available in a hand-rubbed antique brass. Don’t let the finish stop you from getting
December 17, 2010
Tis the season of silver repair and restoration. This time of year our shop is always full of silver repairs, restoration and finishing. Let our craftsmen bring your items back to their original
December 13, 2010
These custom door pulls were designed and fabricated for a unit in the Trump Chicago Centre. They are made of solid bronze and were given a polished nickel finish.
December 9, 2010
If you missed us at navy pier in chicago back in october, you can still see us at the las vegas kitchen & bath industry show on april 26-28, 2011. We will have our latest designs of ice box ha
October 6, 2010
Don’t sell or pack away that favorite item because it not longer goes with your current decor. Let us refinish it and give it new life as we did with this beautiful table lamp. We took from
October 2, 2010
Here is a before and after of a homeowners hardware that he wanted us to match a sample back plate. The finish is an antique copper with a coating of lacquer to preserve it’s finish.
September 4, 2010
This lot of custom door and cabinet hardware from an east coast customer was given a highly polished nickel finish by our craftsman. Upon receipt of this order, out customer stated “your edge
August 31, 2010
A satin antique brass finish was selected for this vintage ornate ceiling fixture. Our customer did not want a shiny luster so we gave it a final clear coating of a matte lacquer to protect its new
August 30, 2010
the chicago-based manufacturer of this hardware was niles hardware. this was often used on pre-turn of the century, post-chicago fire homes. as this was prior to the days of ups/fedex, hardware was much more regional in its use.
August 30, 2010
this hardware is typical of original and replacement hardware that you would find on pre-turn of the century chicago homes. this hardware may or may not be used as part of a current restoration that we are working on.
August 27, 2010
We restored these great candlesticks by giving them a new polished brass finish and a coating of clear lacquer. The large pair stand over 3 feet tall!
August 23, 2010
These pieces are from our very own wilmette hardware line of fine architectural hardware. If you cannot make it into our showroom to actually touch and feel this amazing hardware, please visit our w
August 19, 2010
Did you know that we have the capabilities to 24k gold plate the inside only of your chalice or cup? Let us help you restore your item to it’s original grandeur.
August 15, 2010
Here is a before and after of a brass table that we polished and gave a coating of clear lacquer.
August 11, 2010
This cast iron front door hardware was given our popular verde finish by our craftsman. These strap hinges measured over 30 inches!
August 7, 2010
Here are some bathroom hardware pieces that we matched a customer supplied sample. We have the capabilities of duplicating just about any finish you can come up with.
July 28, 2010
Do you have a favorite pot or pan that just isn’t working like it used to and hate the idea of getting rid of it? Let us bring it back to it’s original luster. We polished these copper
July 24, 2010
Are you changing the decor in a room and just cannot find the right table to match? Let us help you – we took this pair of brass tables and gave them new life with a beautiful polished nickel
July 20, 2010
The vintage interior door plates and knobs shown were polished then given an antique black treatment in the recessed areas. We utilized the same process used when they were originally produced.
July 16, 2010
This beautiful 8-candle brass chandelier was in need of a good polishing and a coat of lacquer to bring it back to it’s original grandeur. It was totally re-wired including new sockets and can
July 12, 2010
Here is a pair of porcelain table lamps that were in need of our help. We replaced the broken brass rod, re-formed the bent wires and attached the porcelain pieces. I was also re-wired and back in
July 8, 2010
Here is our very own wilmette hardware rutledge hammered cabinet knob in an antique silver and lacquer finish. Be sure to check out all of our fine architectural cabinet hardware gallery at http://w
July 4, 2010
This before and after is of a very large (5 inch diameter) set of front door hardware that probably dates back to the 60′s. Our customer chose an oil rubbed bronze and oil “living”
June 30, 2010
This pair of beautiful cut glass candelabras had to be totally disassembled, the cut glass hand cleaned and the sterling silver polished to a mirror finish before being reassembled by our shop.
June 26, 2010
All these two 24″ exterior stainless steel handles needed was our satin finish with two coats of clear lacquer and they look as good as new.
June 18, 2010
A soft butler brass finish with a coating of a low luster lacquer was provided on this great towel floor rack. We also fabricated the missing rod and caps to bring it back to it’s original con
June 18, 2010
Here is an authentic ship porthole that had to weigh over 70 pounds. Our customer wanted a polished brass and clear lacquer finish before he made a poolside table out of it.
May 31, 2010
Just look at what was hiding under all those year of dirt and grime! The etched glass on this lantern could not be removed, so it was carefully masked, then given a hand satin finish with a final co
May 27, 2010
This table lamp had a break just above the socket where it is handled most for adjusting it’s direction. It was soldered into position, then colored to blend in with the existing finish. New wiring was also provided.
May 18, 2010
Did you know that we also offer powder coating in a rainbow of colors? This table and chair set was given new life with a great finish for outdoor applications. We also provided the new stained wa
May 15, 2010
Here is a before and after of an antique brass scale with a marble base. We returned it to it’s original condition by hand cleaning the marble base and gave the brass a polished finish. A
May 12, 2010
This wedding cake fixture had been waiting for us in storage for many years. It was given what we call a soft, butler brass finish, then lacquered to keep it from tarnishing. The crystal was indiv
April 23, 2010
Do you have that favorite copper pot or pan than you just love but it has lost it’s luster or more important the tin lining is gone? This hammered copper pot with brass handles was cleaned, po
April 20, 2010
We realize the value of your silver items – not only from a monetary value but also from a sentimental value. We have always utilized the old methods of silver repair and restoration – some of our
April 17, 2010
In by 9:00 out by 4:00 that’s our same day service Monday through Thursday. Here is a before & after of a set that was given new life with a dark oil rubbed bronze finish. Give us a call
April 10, 2010
We did this project for a commercial builder in Chicago over a 3 week period. They were restoring the exterior hardware on a building with over a dozen exterior doors. Vintage thumb levers, mail slo
March 30, 2010
The steel back plates and knobs on this exterior front door hardware were given our old brass finish. Now the entire set matches.
March 27, 2010
Here is a before and after of a great old wall mounted brass barometer. Not only did we give it a polished brass finish, we also took apart and cleaned the glass and reading plate.
March 24, 2010
An antique brass and lacquered finish was chosen for these ornate candlestick holders and compote with cut glass. Did you know that we can match practically any finish sample you can provide? Our
March 21, 2010
This is our own wilmette hardware cyma cabinet knob which is also available with a back plate. Be sure to check out all of our fine architectural hardware at http://www.wilmettehardware.com/
March 18, 2010
Did you know that there is more to the restoration process than just “dipping” it in silver? We first photograph the item, then a drawing or sketch is made while it is dis-assembled for
March 15, 2010
This beautiful book stand was given a satin finish and lacquered by our shop. Notice that the engraving was not compromised by the satin process.
March 12, 2010
This lot of plumbing fixtures and hardware was polished and given a new brass finish along with coating of lacquer.
March 9, 2010
This is an example of one of our custom jib pulls finished to match our customer’s sample. Just let us know your required dimensions and finish. Be sure to check out our full line of cabinet
March 9, 2010
These original steel door knobs and escutcheons have been finished in a satin antique brass and lacquered finish. Did you know that we offer a 10% discount on orders for 6 doors or more?
March 6, 2010
I thought this photo was just amazing of 300 polished brass hinges that we supplied to a local builder. We have a complete selection of hinges for all your door and cabinet needs which we can supply
March 2, 2010
Have you ever found that perfect item only to find that it is just not the right color or finish? That was the case with these wall sconces that we refinished in a butler brass and lacquer.
February 27, 2010
I think I’ll do something different and post the following comment from another happy customer: After providing some pictures to you via email and obtaining a quotation, Al Bar was able to turn
February 3, 2010
This chandelier actually had a candle on one of the arms that started to burn. First the wiring was replaced with new sockets and candle covers. It was then hand cleaned, waxed and missing crystal
January 31, 2010
This vintage towel rack, soap dish and toothbrush holder were given a new life with a polished nickel finish.
January 28, 2010
This is our harmon hinge in a polished nickel finish. It is the perfect choice if your looking for a very clean and flush installation of a pocketing door. They are available for 1 3/4″, 2&#
January 25, 2010
Here is a before and after of a complete coffee and tea set that we re-silver plated. If you have a complete set with tray, it will qualify for a 10% discount on our services. If you would like to
December 21, 2009
These have to be the largest ball bearing hinges I have ever seen. They measure 10″ x 8″ and were brought into our shop for restoration from a local church door. We prepare the base me
December 18, 2009
Over 90 glass globes needed to be removed on this fixture in order for us to prepare it for polishing and nickel plating. Each globe was hand cleaned before placing it back into place. The best vi
December 14, 2009
It’s that time of year to get your fireplace ready for the long, cold winter. We polished the brass on this pair of andirons and gave the dogs and feet a protective coating of high heat paint.
December 3, 2009
These great ice box handles and hinges are a new addition to our Wilmette Hardware line. They are available in any finish and would give your kitchen cabinetry that old world look.
November 26, 2009
Here are some steel spring hinges that Ed our project manager is putting back together after polishing and brass plating. All hinges need to be taken apart before finishing and re-assembled after to
November 23, 2009
This exposed tub faucet tubing was too short and needed to be extended in order to reach the fixture. We supplied the additional tubing, made the precision cuts and hard soldered the connections.
November 20, 2009
Bad dog! Fido got a hold of this pewter mug and as you can see, did some serious damage. Our craftsmen were able to work and shape the pewter back to it’s original form. Get that dog a b
All it takes is a good cleaning and polishing to restore this sterling silver tray to it’s original grandeur. The trick is not to effect it’s intricate monogram – you can trust your valued family heirlooms to us.