Whether you're constructing a cabin, renovating a timber-framed home, or adding decorative touches to a truss, iron T plates are essential building blocks. At Old West Iron, they’re more than a product – they’re a passion.
Structural durability and decorative charm wrapped into one—that’s the story of iron T plates. For builders, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts, these plates hold together more than wood and beams; they bind the entire aesthetic and strength of a project.
At Old West Iron, we pride ourselves on creating high-quality, customizable iron T plates that not only deliver on performance but also bring beauty to your structures. Here’s how we craft each of these masterpieces, step by step. 
What Are Iron T Plates?
Iron T plates are both structural and decorative elements used in woodworking and construction. They typically join vertical posts to horizontal beams, forming strong connections in timber frame structures. Alternatively, they can be inverted to link King trusses to horizontal beams, enhancing the aesthetic appeal with their iconic "T" shape.
These plates are available in various sizes, textures (e.g., hammered or distressed), and finishes (like black, pewter, or rusted metal). Whether you're reinforcing a load-bearing beam or adding an ornamental touch to a truss, these plates are foundational to great design and stability.
Now, let's walk you through the intricate craftsmanship behind every iron T plate we produce at Old West Iron.
How We Make Your T Plates at Old West Iron
1. Order Received
The process begins as soon as you place your order. Here's what happens next behind the scenes:
- Order Details Reviewed
Once received, your order is printed, and every specification is carefully noted. Our team ensures we have all the necessary details, including dimensions, textures, customizations, and finishes. If we're missing any info or have questions, our office staff will give you a phone call as quickly as possible to make sure we know everything that we need to.
- Hardware Collection
If you’ve ordered additional hardware, like lag screws or decorative bolts, we pull the blanks from our inventory. Each piece is labeled and taken to the shop for texturing to match your T plate or other specifications.
- Custom Requests Highlighted
Any special requests, like unusual hole placements or bespoke dimensions, are flagged for our designers and craftsmen. 
2. CAD and Cut
At Old West Iron, precision begins with design. Here's how the magic starts unfolding:
- Specs Turned into Designs
Our designers carefully translate your requirements into a CAD (Computer-Aided Design) file, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail.
- CNC Machine Cutting
Your T plate design is added to a cutting sheet with other orders. This sheet is fed into a CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machine, which ensures precise cutting of your plate from high-quality raw iron.
- Sorting and Queueing
Once cut, your plates are sorted and placed in a queue for the next stage of manufacturing. Each piece is assigned to an experienced blacksmith to continue the process.
3. Texturing by Hand
This is where skilled craftsmanship meets pure artistry.
- Heating the Iron
Your plate is heated in a forge until it glows red-hot, making it pliable for texturing.
- Applying Textures
Depending on your selection, the blacksmith hand-hammers each plate to achieve the requested finish. Options include smooth, all-hammered, hammered edge, or distressed textures.
- Refining the Edges
Any rough edges from the cutting stage are carefully ground down for a flawless finish. For customizations like unique hole sizes, these are drilled with precision during this stage.
Every iron T plate we produce undergoes this meticulous hand-texturing process, ensuring no two are exactly alike while maintaining consistency in quality.
4. Hand Painting Your Finish
Your finished product isn’t complete without the perfect finish. Here’s how we bring your T plate to life with color and texture.
- Standard Paint Options
If you choose basic finishes like Black, our painter applies the paint by hand and sets the plates aside to dry.
- Advanced Metal Patinas
For specialty finishes like Pewter and Aged Bronze, we layer a base coat and apply patina rubs.
For Gunmetal and Wrought Iron Patina, we use chemical mixtures that alter the color of the metal itself. For Gunmetal specifically, we may also apply heat to bring out unique blue tones in the patina.
- Natural Rust Finish
Opting for a rustic look? Our team uses a chemical treatment that encourages rust formation, taking several days to achieve the desired effect. Once complete, a clear protective coat is applied.
Regardless of the finish, every T plate is left to dry overnight before heading to the final step to ensure that the finish isn't damaged during shipping. 
5. Final Checks, Packaging, and Shipping
The last stage is all about quality assurance and preparing your order for delivery.
- Inspection
Each T plate undergoes thorough examination. Our team ensures all customizations, finishes, and textures meet your expectations. Any imperfections, like scratches or misaligned dimensions, are sent back for corrections.
- Packaging
Once approved, your plate is carefully wrapped to prevent damage during transit.
- Shipping
A shipping label is created, and you’ll receive a tracking email. Your order is then placed in the pickup area, ready for the carrier.
Before you know it, your expertly crafted T plate will be on its way to your project site!
Why Choose Old West Iron?
- Custom Designs: Whether you need a specific size or unique texture, we tailor each plate to your specifications.
- Handcrafted Quality: Every plate is hammered, textured, and painted by skilled artisans.
- Premium Finishes: From classic black to vibrant gunmetal, our finishing options elevate your project’s aesthetics.
- Proven Durability: Made from high-quality raw iron, our T plates provide structural integrity and long-lasting performance.
When you choose Old West Iron, you're not just buying a product; you're investing in craftsmanship that perfectly blends functionality and beauty.
Build Better with Old West Iron
Whether you're constructing a cabin, renovating a timber-framed home, or adding decorative touches to a truss, iron T plates are essential building blocks. At Old West Iron, they’re more than a product – they’re a passion.
Browse our collection of iron T plates today, or contact our team to discuss a custom order. With sizes, finishes, and customization options galore, we’ve got the perfect T plate for your project.
Elevate your craftsmanship. Trust the experts at Old West Iron.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Are T Plates Measured?
A: T Plates are measured by a horizontal and vertical measurement with a separate strap width. The horizontal measurement is measured from end to end, but it's important to keep in mind that the vertical measurement is measured from the top of the T plate, not the bottom of the horizontal strap. This makes the example drawing above a 12" (horizontal) x 8" (vertical) x 2 1/2" (strap width) T plate.
I Have Unusual Beam and Post Sizes, Can You Meet My Special Requirements?
A: Please reach out to us via office@oldwestiron.com to discuss custom products, in most cases we will be able to make T plates for extra wide, extra narrow, or otherwise unusual application sites.
None of These Design Styles Are What I Need. How Can I Get a Custom Style?
A: Please reach out to us via office@oldwestiron.com to discuss custom products, in some cases we will be able to make products with custom designs from an example photo or drawing for an additional design fee.