Old West Iron Blog: Craftsmanship, Heritage & Hand-Forged Expertise

Old West Iron mantel straps are more than just hardware — they’re handcrafted accents forged with pride. Our decorative rivets give the look of authentic blacksmith fasteners but are purely ornamental, welded in place for visual impact. When installing your strap, make sure all your screws are on the top and bottom so the integrity of the design stays true to its heritage roots

A reliable post base is essential for maintaining the structural integrity and design impact of your project. By taking precise measurements, choosing the right type, and following simple installation steps, you’ll ensure a seamless process from start to finish. For high-quality, custom-made post bases, check out Old West Iron’s collection. With expert craftsmanship and tailored sizing, we simplify your construction needs. Order today and set your project up for success!

Joist hangers may seem like a small detail, but they play a significant role both in your project's durability and its overall style. Picking the right type, size, texture, and finish ensures not only a secure structure but also a design that fits harmoniously into your space.

T plates are more than just connectors—they are tools that combine structural integrity with design innovation. Whether you're securing structural beams in your new home or adding a decorative element to a rustic table, the right T plate can elevate any project.  

Making the right choice in custom post bases is all about attention to detail. These seemingly small elements make a big difference in how finished and harmonious your home feels.

Ordering a post base from Old West Iron can be a straightforward process if you understand the different types, the sizing requirements, and the customization options available. By following this guide, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision that ensures the stability and aesthetic appeal of your project. Whether you're a homeowner, a DIY enthusiast, or an interior designer, Old West Iron offers a variety of high-quality, customizable post bases to meet your needs.

Stairway railings are a vital piece of making your home a safe place for family and guests of all ages (not to mention a requirement for meeting safety standards) but that doesn't mean your railings need to stop at practicality. Whether you're dreaming of a period appropriate feature for your century home or a modern touch for your minimalist paradise, Old West Iron can help you make that dream a reality.

Navigating the world of construction and rigging can be complex, especially when it comes to the nuts and bolts—or, more accurately, the turnbuckles—keeping everything in place. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a first-time do-it-yourselfer, understanding the fundamentals of turnbuckles is crucial. Here's a comprehensive list that will answer all your questions and ensure you're well-versed in the art of using turnbuckles safely and effectively. Introduction to Turnbuckles and Their Common Uses Turnbuckles are one of the most versatile and widely used mechanical fasteners in construction, rigging, and various DIY applications. They come in handy in situations where the tightening or adjusting of tension is required. Whether it's for straightening fencing wires, securing or aligning a pulley system, or even fine-tuning the truss frame for a home project, turnbuckles play a pivotal role in maintaining structural integrity and alignment adjustments. Q. What Are Turnbuckles? A. At their core, turnbuckles are devices comprising two screw-ended eyes threaded onto a central body. This central body is usually a metal framework that allows for rotational movement of the two ends. When rotated, the eyes move toward or away from each other, which can either lengthen or shorten the overall assembly, depending on the rotation direction. They are used when the application requires some flexibility and tension adjustment. Q. How can I Select the Right Type of Turnbuckle? A. The type of turnbuckle you'll need depends on the specific application. Here are the most common types: Adjustable Turnbuckles This is the go-to for most general purposes. It consists of two internally threaded end screw parts and a central screw mechanism. Eye & Eye Turnbuckles These have looped ends that the fastener passes through—a popular choice for use with ropes and elasticated bungee hooks. Hook & Eye Turnbuckles These have one eye and one hook, making them perfect for applications that require a hooking mechanism on one end. Q. How Do I Install My Turnbuckles? A. Proper installation of a turnbuckle is essential. Begin by loosening the nuts and removing the lockwire or locking hardware from one end. Turn the frame so it stretches or shortens the desired area, then carefully measure the length before tightening the locknuts to secure the adjustment. Q. Can I Use A Turnbuckle in My Project? What Are Some Common Applications of Turnbuckles? A. Turnbuckles can be found in an astonishing array of applications. Whether it's in construction, rigging sails, tensioning wires, adjusting backstays on a mast, or even in theatrical rigging to move set pieces, they are an indispensable tool for fine-tuning tension and length. Q. What Size Turnbuckle Should I Order? A. Choosing the right size turnbuckle is crucial for safety and performance. Measure your desired distance and select a turnbuckle with a rod that's slightly longer than that distance, ensuring you have sufficient adjustment capability. Q. What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Using Turnbuckles? A. Safety should always be the top priority when working with turnbuckles. Ensure you respect weight limits and never overload them. Proper installation, including tightening of locking nuts, is a must. Additionally, perform regular checks to make sure everything is secure and that the turnbuckle isn't damaged. Q. How Do Turnbuckles Work? A. Turnbuckles operate on a simple principle of rotational movement converting force. The eyehooks pass through an object and are connected to it by a fastener, and as the central body is turned, it causes the eyes to move relative to one another, adjusting tension and length as needed. Conclusion Turnbuckles are not just an average piece of hardware; they are the artisan's tool, the construction worker’s companion, and the sailor's friend. Their adaptability and simple yet effective design make them a must-have for any project that requires the fine balancing of tension and length. Now that your questions have been answered, it's time to take this newfound knowledge and apply it with confidence in your next job or DIY adventure.

How do I choose a T plate size for my exposed beams? This is one of the most common questions home owners and builders have when trying to incorporate decorative or structural iron beam straps with timbers. In this blog post we break down the basics behind selecting a suitable wood connector size for exposing beam applications.