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

Explore Our Latest Articles & Hand-Forged Hardware Insights

Welcome to the Old West Iron Blog, where heritage craftsmanship meets modern living. Here we share expert guidance on wrought iron hardware, home restoration, frontier-style design, historic metalwork, and behind-the-forge stories from our veteran-powered, family-run workshop. Whether you're updating a historic home or learning about authentic ironwork, you’ll find trusted information backed by real American blacksmiths.

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

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How to Install a Mantel Strap: A Step-by-Step Guide

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

How to Install a Mantel Strap: A Step-by-Step Guide

Maddison Mellem.Apr 25, 2025
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
How to Install a Hinge Strap the Right Way

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

How to Install a Hinge Strap the Right Way

Maddison Mellem.Apr 24, 2025
Every hinge strap we make is forged with pride—by hand, right here in the USA. Whether you're outfitting barn doors, garden gates, or custom cabinets, installing it right ensures it stays strong and looks timeless.  
How to Install Cane Bolts

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

How to Install Cane Bolts

Maddison Mellem.Apr 23, 2025
Learn how to install a cane bolt with our step-by-step guide. Secure your gate with rustic hardware built to last — hand-forged by Old West Iron.
The Ultimate Handrail Bracket Installation Guide

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

The Ultimate Handrail Bracket Installation Guide

Maddison Mellem.Apr 17, 2025
Installing handrail brackets is a simple yet impactful way to enhance the safety and style of your home or project. Old West Iron’s handrail brackets offer unbeatable durability, timeless designs, and a seamless installation process, making them the preferred choice for homeowners, contractors, and interior designers alike.
The Ultimate Speakeasy Door and Grill Installation Guide

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

The Ultimate Speakeasy Door and Grill Installation Guide

Maddison Mellem.Apr 11, 2025
Have questions about your installation? Need help troubleshooting your speakeasy door or grill project? Our expert customer service team is only a call or message away. We're here to ensure your installation experience is as smooth as possible.
How to Install Hinged Pizza Oven Doors (A DIY Guide for Pizza Lovers)

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

How to Install Hinged Pizza Oven Doors (A DIY Guide for Pizza Lovers)

Maddison Mellem.Apr 09, 2025
Installing a hinged pizza oven door is a small project with big returns. From enhanced heat retention to a safer, more convenient cooking experience, it’s an upgrade every pizza oven owner should consider. Plus, with the ability to do it yourself, you gain the satisfaction of knowing you’ve contributed to the ultimate backyard culinary setup.
Your Guide to Lock Washers

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Your Guide to Lock Washers

Maddison Mellem.Mar 11, 2025
Lock washers may be small, but their ability to prevent fasteners from loosening can make or break a project. Whether you're assembling a complex machine or crafting furniture at home, these essential components deliver durability, safety, and peace of mind.
Your Guide to Hollow Wall Anchors - Toggle Bolts

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Your Guide to Hollow Wall Anchors - Toggle Bolts

Maddison Mellem.Mar 07, 2025
From mounting a sleek floating bookshelf to securing a flat-screen TV, toggle bolts make seemingly tricky tasks achievable for anyone. With their unmatched strength, ease of use, and versatility, toggle bolts are a must-have for homeowners, interior designers, and DIY lovers alike.
Your Guide to Square Head Lag Screws

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Your Guide to Square Head Lag Screws

Maddison Mellem.Feb 10, 2025
Square head lag screws are more than simple fasteners—they’re a blend of functionality, strength, and style that can enhance any woodworking project. Whether you’re reinforcing outdoor structures or crafting custom furniture, these screws offer unmatched durability, easy handling, and a distinctive aesthetic.  
Close-up of two black carriage bolts on a wooden surface, showcasing their round heads and square shoulders

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

How to Install Carriage Bolts - A Guide for Daring DIYers

Maddison Mellem.Feb 07, 2025
Carriage bolts are more than just practical fasteners—they can enhance the overall quality and visual appeal of your projects. Whether you're a seasoned DIY expert or a daring beginner, the steps in this guide will ensure you install them like a pro.  
How Do Carriage Bolts Work? – A Guide

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

How Do Carriage Bolts Work? – A Guide

Maddison Mellem.Feb 06, 2025
Carriage bolts are more than just fasteners—they’re a critical component that holds projects together, both structurally and visually. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast, a woodworking hobbyist, or a professional contractor, understanding how carriage bolts work will help you take your projects to the next level.  
Black iron T plate mounted on rustic wooden surface, enhancing structural integrity and decor

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Your Guide to T Plates for Your Home

Maddison Mellem.Jan 09, 2025
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.