When off-the-shelf won’t cut it, custom hardware is the answer.

From homes with historic roots to modern builds that require non-standard specs, custom ironwork brings flexibility, function, and design cohesion to any project. At Old West Iron, it’s what we do best—fusing old-world craftsmanship with your unique vision.

But how do you know when to go made-to-order?

Let’s walk through when custom ironwork is worth it—and how to make the most of it.

When Standard Sizes Just Don’t Fit

Building from scratch or restoring a heritage structure? You’ll likely run into beams, openings, or dimensions that don’t match the mass-produced molds.

Whether you’re trying to:

• Fit iron brackets to 200-year-old hand-hewn beams

• Match vintage iron hinges for a restoration project

• Reinforce a custom-size mantel with made-to-measure mantel straps

...custom sizing ensures a perfect fit and clean installation. Our custom mantel straps can be tailored in length, width, thickness, finish, and texture—right down to the hole placement.

When You Want to Match a Look or Finish

Trying to pair your new ironwork with aged pieces or architectural salvage? With over a dozen finish options and the ability to color match from a photo, we can replicate the look of old-world pieces—or create something entirely new.

Common made-to-order options include:

• Color-matched clavos and fasteners

• Custom iron signs with ranch brands or family names

• Brackets and hangers with signature patinas

Just send us your photo or reference materials to get started.

Design fees apply for custom layouts, textures, or shape modifications, and pricing will depend on complexity and revision needs.

When You Need Custom Signage or Branding

From ranch entrances to house numbers and business logos, our custom iron signs make a bold and lasting statement.

Ideal for:

• Gate signs and branded entrance plaques

• Layered silhouette art

• Cutout signage with precise fonts or family crests

• Event or wedding signage forged to last

Each piece is designed in-house based on your sketches, photos, or brand materials, then cut, textured, and finished to your specs.

What to Expect with Custom Orders

We hand-forge each custom piece here in Idaho using traditional techniques, which means your order won’t ship next day—but it will last a lifetime.

Here’s what to know before placing a custom order:

• We require a 50% deposit up front for all custom jobs

• Lead time varies based on complexity and volume

• Design fees cover the time to sketch, revise, and prep your item for production

• Read our full Custom Order Policy →

For simple adjustments like finish choice or hole placement, we may not require a full design fee—but for all new layouts, logos, or shape alterations, design time is billable.

Ready to Get Started?

If you’re unsure whether your idea qualifies as a custom order, send us an email with your inspiration photos, specs, and questions.

Let us know:

• Dimensions

• Desired finish or texture

• Where it will be installed

• Any reference photos or sketches you have

You can also call us at 208-904-6820 or text photos directly to that number to begin the conversation.

Forged with care, made to last—our custom hardware is built for the homes and hands that demand more.

Written by the Old West Iron Forge Team — crafting authentic American ironwork from our Idaho forge since 2011. Experience-backed, veteran-built, and proudly Made in the USA.