Clavos, or decorative nail heads, can add a sophisticated touch to your home and furniture. They come in countless styles, transforming ordinary doors, cabinets, and upholstery into Western, rustic, or Spanish Colonial masterpieces. If you're new to clavos, or if you're a seasoned pro looking for inspiration, we've gathered the most frequently asked questions and answered them to help you in your clavos endeavors. Whether you're a homeowner, DIY enthusiast, decorator, or interior designer, understanding clavos can bring new life to your projects. Here's everything you need to know.
What are clavos?
Clavos are decorative metal spikes or nails that serve both practical and ornamental purposes. They originated in Spain and were used in the Middle Ages as door and chest protections. The word "clavo" is Spanish for "nail," and these decorative elements have an undeniably medieval charm about them. Clavos nails have been used for centuries to decorate doors and furniture. These embellishments are a staple in many home decor styles, from the Old World to modern industrial. They can be made of iron, copper, bronze, or other metals, and their various finishes cater to a wide range of tastes and aesthetics and come in square, round, and a variety or historically inspired shapes.
When it comes to clavos, you might be dreaming up studded leather chairs, adorned with heavy-duty nails, but clavos are more than their traditional applications suggest. They can add flair in subtler ways, such as enhancing a kitchen island, or complementing a carved door. Clavos are about blending function with style, making them an attractive choice for anyone looking to add character to their home.
What are clavos used for?
Clavos serve a multitude of purposes in home decor, both functional and aesthetic. Here are some common uses:
- Door Decoration: Adding clavos to doors, especially older or distressed ones, can create an antique look that is undeniably charming. It's a small detail that can make a big statement.
- Furniture Making: Clavos are a popular choice for adding an extra layer of interest to furniture. They can be used on virtually any type of item, from chairs and tables to trunks and chests.
- Upholstering: On padded surfaces like sofas and ottomans, clavos can add a rugged or regal accent, depending on the design, for a touch of old-world charm.
- Hanging Wall Decorations: When used in this way, clavos serve a purely aesthetic purpose by framing wall hangings or photographs, adding a decorative touch to the display.
Their versatility means you can be as creative as you wish, using clavos to create specific themes or to add eclectic elements to your space. The only limit is your imagination.
What different styles of clavos heads do you offer?
At Old West Iron, we offer an impressive range of clavos heads, each with its unique style and appeal. Our decorative nail heads come in various sizes and head shapes to suit the needs of different projects and design concepts. From rustic, hammered round heads to elaborately cast varieties, we have a head to match every vision.
Our clavos are designed to stand out or blend in according to your preference. Whether you're aiming for a bold look with substantial nail heads or a more subtle embellishment with smaller, understated details, we have the selection to cater to your needs. Explore our vast range at this link and discover the perfect piece for your next creation.
Choosing the Right Finish
Just as the style of the head is crucial, so is the finish. The finish of a clavo can either anchor a piece firmly in a traditional style or give it a modern twist. Old West Iron offers various finish colors, including distressed, antique, and dark tones, which can dramatically change the overall look of each clavo.
The finish is not just about the aesthetics, though. It also plays an important role in enhancing the durability and longevity of your clavos. A well-finished clavo will not only look good but also stand the test of time against the elements, should you decide to use them outdoors. Learn more about our textures and finishes at this link.
How are clavos installed?
Installing clavos can be straightforward with the right tools and a methodical approach. For all of our clavos, we suggest drilling a 1/2" deep pilot hole that's 1/8" in diameter and using a rubber mallet to hammer in the nail. If you don't have a rubber mallet, covering the head with a thick cloth, like a work glove, and tapping it in with a regular hammer works as well. This method ensures a secure fit without damaging the clavos' finish or head. You can also use clavos epoxy to install clavos heads without tools.
In the event that the finish is damaged during installation, we provide touch-up kits to address any marks or scratches. Our detailed installation guide walks you through each step, ensuring you get the job done right the first time. The last thing you want is to mar your beautifully crafted clavos with an errant hammer swing.
Can Clavos be welded to my existing iron hardware?
Absolutely, you can weld our clavos to existing hardware if ordered in a raw finish. This option allows you to further customize your pieces and add a personal touch that integrates seamlessly with your existing decor. If you're unable to remove the heads yourself, simply leave a note at checkout specifying that you want us to remove them for you.
We can also assist with welding the clavos to any additional hardware ordered from Old West Iron for an extra custom weld fee. This service helps ensure a professional finish and is a great choice for those who may not have access to the necessary tools or expertise.
Clavos are a unique and timeless addition to any home or project, offering a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal that few other elements can match. From adding a rustic touch to creating an antique look, clavos are versatile decor staples that can work in a wide variety of settings and design concepts.
If you have any more questions about clavos or would like advice on a specific project, don't hesitate to reach out to us at our office phone number or email address. We're here to help you realize your vision and bring your space to life with the elegance and charm of decorative nail heads.
Remember, with clavos, the smallest detail can make the most significant difference, turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. Whether you're embellishing a beloved piece of furniture or refinishing an entire room, clavos can be the perfect finishing touch.
Maddison Mellem
Old West Iron
p- (844) 205-7266
f- (844) 205-7267