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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Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Pizza Oven Door FAQ: Everything You Need to Know Before You Build

Maddison Mellem.Jul 10, 2025

Explore our full selection of handcrafted pizza oven doors, or contact us for custom sizing and design help. Old West Iron — Where fire meets forged craftsmanship.Functional. Beautiful. Built for the long burn.

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Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Beam Straps Ordering & Installation Guide

Maddison Mellem.Jul 08, 2025

Explore our full Beam Straps Collection to find handcrafted iron hardware that adds integrity and impact to your structure. Old West Iron: Built for strength. Forged for legacy.

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Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Carriage Bolt Types: Choosing the Right Fit for Rustic and Heavy-Duty Builds

Maddison Mellem.Jul 03, 2025

Whether you're looking for decorative carriage bolts, structural hardware for post-and-beam joinery, or low-profile fasteners for handcrafted furniture, we’ve got the right bolt for the job. And with finishes ranging from rusted patina to deep black iron, your hardware won’t just hold it together—it’ll help tell the story of your build. Explore the full Carriage Bolts Collection and find the hardware that’s as solid—and as good-looking—as the work you're putting into it.

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Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Carriage Bolt Installation: How to Install a Carriage Bolt the Right Way

Maddison Mellem.Jun 25, 2025

Installing a carriage bolt is straightforward — but the right technique and quality materials make all the difference. At Old West Iron, our carriage bolts are forged for both performance and beauty, with finishes that bring rustic character to any project. Whether you're restoring the past or building something new, carriage bolts offer the strength of iron with a look that never goes out of style.

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Expert Guides & Installation Tips

The Right Tools and Drivers for Iron Hardware Installation

Maddison Mellem.Jun 18, 2025

Don’t risk damaging high-end, handcrafted hardware with the wrong installation tools. With our Tools & Drivers collection, you get precision-fit performance that protects your investment — and your craftsmanship.

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Expert Guides & Installation Tips

How to Install Old West Iron Rosettes: A Step-by-Step Guide

Maddison Mellem.Jun 17, 2025

Installing rosettes is a quick project with big visual payoff. Whether paired with decorative screws for a clean finish or clavos for added character, Old West Iron’s iron rosettes help you build a space that’s rich in texture, heritage, and handcrafted beauty.

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Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Why Accurate Contact Information Matters When Ordering from Old West Iron

Maddison Mellem.Jun 11, 2025

At the heart of Old West Iron is a commitment to craftsmanship, integrity, and honest business. Providing real contact information helps us deliver on that promise. It allows us to build the product you’ve envisioned, ship it correctly, and communicate clearly if changes arise.

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Expert Guides & Installation Tips

A Guide to Eye Bolts: Types and Their Uses in Rustic and Structural Builds

Maddison Mellem.May 22, 2025

At Old West Iron, every eye bolt is selected or forged with the same attention to detail we give our hinges, clavos, and custom ironwork. These aren’t just fasteners — they’re architectural elements that reflect your craftsmanship and your style. Explore all styles and sizes in our full Eye Bolts, Lags & Hooks Collection

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Expert Guides & Installation Tips

Bring Style to Your Storm Drainage: Why and How to Use a Rain Chain

Maddison Mellem.May 12, 2025

If you're tired of clunky downspouts and want something that adds a touch of craftsmanship to your home's exterior, browse our full line of rain chains at Old West Iron. Each one is hand-forged for durability, beauty, and timeless charm — a fitting solution for anyone who believes even the smallest details deserve craftsmanship.

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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

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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.

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