When it comes to finishing touches, most folks think of paint, trim, or a coat of wax. But those who know the value of detail—the ones restoring century-old doors, crafting heirloom furniture, or building with intention—understand the power of a single nail head done right.

Clavos, or decorative nails, have been used for centuries to add both form and function to doors, gates, cabinetry, and more. At Old West Iron, we forge clavos the old way—from solid metals like brass, bronze, and copper—because the finish shouldn’t fade and the story shouldn't be fake.

Let’s break down what sets each of these timeless metals apart and how to choose the right one for your next project.

Brass Clavos: Bold & Polished

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Brass clavos bring a warm, golden glow to any surface. Known for their clean polish and classic appeal, brass offers a sharp contrast to rustic wood, leather, or iron. Our solid brass options aren’t just plated—they’re built from the real deal, which means they’ll age with grace and never flake or chip.

Perfect for:

• Spanish Colonial doors

• Ornate furniture pieces

• Decorative accents on leatherwork or trunks

• Adding a regal touch to rustic spaces

Finish notes: Brass starts bright and golden, then softens into a mellow patina over time. Polish it for shine, or let it age naturally for character.

Bronze Clavos: Old-World Strength

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If you’re looking for metal that feels rooted—like something unearthed from an old shipwreck or Roman fortress—bronze is your answer. Our solid bronze clavos are as durable as they are handsome. With deep earth tones and a grainy luster, they pair beautifully with heavy wood doors, wrought iron hinges, and natural stone.

Perfect for:

• Medieval or Mediterranean-inspired doors

• Gate hardware and iron straps

• Restoration projects with historical accuracy

• Rustic interior builds with substance

Finish notes: Bronze develops a rich, dark patina with use and weather. Each piece will take on its own tone, like aged leather or sun-worn copper.

Copper Clavos: Warm & Weathered

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Copper is a showstopper—especially fresh out of the forge. But its real magic comes with time. Whether polished or left raw, copper clavos evolve as they’re exposed to air, touch, and the natural elements. They shift from fiery orange-reds to soft browns, and eventually to that unmistakable green-blue patina you see on old cupolas and statues.

Perfect for:

• Southwestern-style doors

• Adobe or earthen homes

• Outdoor projects with exposure to weather

• Projects that embrace imperfection and change

Finish notes: Copper is soft and reactive—expect it to change. That’s part of the charm. For a fixed look, you can seal or wax it; otherwise, let nature do its work.

The Beauty of Real Metal

Unlike mass-produced “decorative nails” with plated coatings or plastic cores, all of our brass, bronze, and copper clavos are forged from solid metal. That means they don’t just look the part—they are the part.

We don’t cut corners. We don’t fake finishes. We make hardware like it was made a hundred years ago, because we believe good design deserves materials that hold up.

Where to Use Clavos

• Wood doors and gates

• Cabinetry and drawer fronts

• Upholstered furniture or leather trunks

• Mirror frames, headboards, or accent beams

• Restoration work on churches, lodges, and historic homes

Wherever you use them, they’ll add that small but mighty detail that ties a space together—and anchors it in authenticity.

Maddison Mellem
Writing from the forge at Old West Iron