| Fireplace tools aren't just for hearth maintenance - | | | | If you're among those clamoring to modernize your |
| fireplace tools are a declaration of your personal | | | | living room, a black or brushed nickel or silver tool set |
| style. What does your fireplace tool set say about | | | | is a great solution. If electronic gadgets are the |
| you? How does your fireplace tool set pull together | | | | mainstays of your living room or family room, then |
| the hearth look you want? How do you plan to use | | | | one of those finishes is guaranteed not to clash with |
| your fireplace tools? These are all things to consider | | | | your big-screen, plasma television. Iron is the |
| when deciding on a new fireplace tool set. | | | | contemporary finish of choice for fireplace tool sets, |
| Fireplace Tool Set Functions | | | | says Adams, and provides a matching look to go |
| First of all, what are those things in a fireplace tool | | | | along with technological aspects in your room. |
| set? While the poker's purpose is obvious, it's worth | | | | "There's more ornamental iron work in households |
| mentioning the graceful curve along its underside can | | | | now," Adams explains. "In lamps, mirrors and other |
| pull a wayward log back into position. The shovel and | | | | fixtures, all of the finishes are going to be iron, or |
| broom keep your grate and hearth swept clear of | | | | different types of finishes." |
| ash and debris to maintain a safer firebox and build a | | | | Traditional Fireplace Tool Sets |
| better fire, and the tongs can wrangle a burning log. | | | | If you still love how firelight dances off the brass |
| Fireplace tool sets vary in size, so it's important to | | | | poker, don't fret. Today's manufacturing still produces |
| determine how you'll use them. If you use your | | | | top-notch brass finishes. Adams says shipping is |
| wood-burning fireplace frequently, choose a fireplace | | | | faster than ever today, and that a lot of companies |
| tool set with a larger shovel and more durable bristles | | | | are shipping from overseas-where high-quality brass |
| on the broom for better function. If you have a | | | | can be found. If you're looking for the charm of |
| larger firebox, you may want a longer set of tools. If | | | | brass, but want something that matches those |
| you have a gas fireplace, you may decide on a | | | | modern fixtures Adams mentioned, an antique |
| smaller fireplace tool set just for decoration. | | | | fireplace tool set will do. Burnished and less brilliant |
| Now that you've figured out what a fireplace tool set | | | | than brass, an antique fireplace tool set's finish won't |
| is, what you'll use it for and how often, it's time to | | | | compete with your technology-or other decorating |
| decide how to choose a style that fits your | | | | aspects. Copper is another brass alternative, providing |
| personality and lifestyle. | | | | a touch of Americana guaranteed to fire up your |
| Fireplace Tool Trends | | | | longing for kettle corn, quilts and samplers. |
| According to John S. Adams, an Iowa-based fireplace | | | | Choosing your fireplace tools for style and purpose |
| tool distributor, today's homeowners want | | | | won't just ensure you'll get the right fireplace tool |
| streamlined, modern style. "People want | | | | set-it'll ensure your fireplace tools set you apart from |
| predominantly a four-tool set in black, brushed steel | | | | the pack. Brick-Anew offers a complete line of |
| or pewter," he says, adding customers are shying | | | | fireplace tools in stunning finishes-both modern and |
| away from traditional brass. "They've totally moved | | | | traditional-that will compliment any décor and |
| away from polished brass. It's not found as much in | | | | budget. Highlight your fireplace tool set with fireplace |
| your home décor. Look at your cabinet | | | | accessories like fireplace screens, andirons, |
| hardware and all that stuff. Brass has totally gone | | | | candelabras and firebacks made in coordinating |
| away." | | | | finishes. |
| Contemporary Fireplace Tool Sets | | | | |