Straight Plates

Straight Plates – Collection FAQs

1. What are straight plates used for?
Straight plates reinforce linear joints in beams, posts, mantels, gates, furniture, and timber-frame structures. They add stability where two surfaces meet end-to-end or where additional bracing is needed along a straight span.

2. How are your straight plates different from standard hardware-store mending plates?
Old West Iron plates are cut from thicker steel, built with superior strength, and hand-finished for authentic forged character. Unlike thin stamped mending plates, ours provide true structural reinforcement and Old World styling.

3. How do I choose the right size straight plate for my project?
Choose a length that spans the joint you’re reinforcing—longer plates for beams and mantels, shorter plates for furniture or cabinetry. Make sure your screw or bolt diameter matches the pre-drilled holes and that the plate’s scale matches your timber size.

4. What finishes and textures are available?
Straight plates are available in matte black, natural iron, oil-rubbed bronze, and hand-distressed rustic finishes. Many styles feature hammered or peened textures applied in-house to complement our straps, bolts, and architectural hardware.

5. Are these straight plates hand-forged?
The main plates are precision-cut for structural accuracy, while textures, edges, rivet details, and finishes are hand-applied by our American blacksmiths. This gives each piece a historically inspired wrought-iron appearance.

6. What are the lead times and where are they made?
Most straight plates ship within 1–10 business days, depending on size and finish. All decorative and custom-finished plates are made or finished in the USA at our Idaho forge.