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 Care for Copper Utensils

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

How to Care for Copper Utensils

Maddison Mellem.Apr 10, 2025
Caring for copper utensils is more than maintenance—it’s preservation. By following these steps, you'll not only maintain their striking appearance but also ensure they perform their best for years to come.  
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.
Rub Washers - A Guide

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Rub Washers - A Guide

Maddison Mellem.Mar 05, 2025
Rub washers are the unsung heroes behind countless engineering, construction, and DIY projects. From absorbing vibrations to ensuring watertight seals, their versatility and reliability make them essential for a wide range of applications. Whether you're fine-tuning a machine, securing furniture, or working with electrical components, a rub washer is an invaluable ally.  
Everything You Need to Know About Strap Hinges

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Everything You Need to Know About Strap Hinges

Maddison Mellem.Mar 03, 2025
Strap hinges are more than just functional hardware; they are design elements that can transform the character of any space. From rustic wooden gates to polished modern shutters, their versatility and aesthetic appeal make them a staple for homeowners, DIY enthusiasts, and construction professionals alike.
Your Guide to Square Head Lag Screws

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Your Guide to Square Head Lag Screws

Maddison Mellem.Feb 21, 2025
Square head lag screws are more than just functional fasteners—they’re tools that can elevate your woodworking projects with superior strength, easier handling, and a unique aesthetic appeal. Whether you're fixing an outdoor structure or creating custom furniture, they provide the versatility and durability you need to bring your vision to life. Combine that with textured heads and hand-painted finishes for an unmatched, custom look.
close-up of two rustic carriage bolts showcasing their distinctive round heads and textured surfaces

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Everything You Need to Know About Carriage Bolts

Maddison Mellem.Jan 10, 2025
Carriage bolts are more than just functional fasteners—they are the secret ingredient to structurally sound and stylish projects. By understanding their history, design options, and practical applications, you’ll be able to elevate your DIY or professional construction work.
Iron Washer FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Iron Washer FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

Maddison Mellem.Jan 08, 2025
Iron washers may seem like a small detail, but choosing the right washer can make a big difference in both function and appearance. By addressing these frequently asked questions, we hope to make the selection process smoother and stress-free for you.  
Decorative custom ironwork with floral design and intricate textures in a warm finish

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

How to Choose the Perfect Texture and Finish Combination

Maddison Mellem.Dec 18, 2024
Choosing the right texture and finish pairing isn’t just about design preferences—it’s about creating harmony and balance in your space. Always consider the overall aesthetic you’re aiming for, the specific piece of ironwork, and the role it plays in its setting. The right combination can transform a simple design element into a show-stopping centerpiece or create a seamless, understated elegance.
Various textures and finishes of pyramid-shaped iron accents on rustic wood background

Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Choosing the Perfect Texture and Finish for Your Custom Iron Work

Maddison Nedrow.Apr 09, 2024
Choosing the right texture and finish for your custom ironwork is not just about aesthetic taste—it's about form, function, and preserving the story behind each piece. Each texture and finish option offers a unique personality and set of considerations. With this guide, you can confidently select features that will not only elevate your design but stand the test of time. Whether you're undertaking a DIY project or working with an interior designer, the intricate decisions you make with your ironwork can forge an environment that's both captivating and enduring.