Our Knowledge Base

Our Knowledge Base at the Rustic Merchant, we have dedicated many years to finding exceptional blacksmiths capable of crafting our wrought iron products. It was crucial to select artisans who were not only skilled in making but also had a deep understanding of traditional ironmongery.

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The craftsmen we collaborate with possess the expertise to create the styles and maintain the quality we demand. Each of our wrought iron items is crafted traditionally on the anvil. The designs are original creations or inspired by existing pieces, and we take great pride in presenting them to you. Through Our Knowledge Base we aim to guide you through our range of products and share snippets of their history. We trust you will find this article informative and enjoyable

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A Short History of Casting Iron

Examples of iron casting date back to the fifth century in China, where cast iron was used to aid in pagoda construction. This technique did not reach Europe until the 14th century. In England, casting emerged in the 1500s.

In 1543, an English parson discovered a method to cast iron cannons, which were cheaper, albeit less safe, than the bronze cannons used at the time. Bronze cannons, if they failed, would simply crack, whereas cast iron cannons, being brittle, could explode into shrapnel. However, the cost of cast iron cannons was about one-third less, giving England a financial advantage and enabling the cheap production of armaments for its warships. Europe did not perfect this method until the 17th century.

The first known use of cast iron as a building material was at Flax Farm in 1796, believed to be the world’s earliest iron-framed house. The 18th century saw new manufacturing methods, including the blast furnace. During this time, England’s production was limited to small foundries, and most of the cast iron was imported from Sweden between 1700 and 1750 due to its cost-effectiveness. Despite an abundance of pig iron in the UK, its inferior quality meant it was used only for inexpensive items, such as nails.

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Interesting Fact

 

V0020831 a sow lying in the straw with six suckling piglets etching the Rustic Merchant

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The reason why pig iron is so called, is that the founders thought it looked like a sow feeding her young when the moulten iron was poured into an open mould

 

 

The year 1709 was a pivotal point in cast iron manufacturing when Abraham Darby began to use coke in his furnace. This allowed for higher temperatures and an enhanced moulding process. With the dawn of the Industrial Revolution around 1760, power-driven machinery took over manual labour, leading to mass factory production. Such advancements made it possible to produce larger cast iron items, like tram lines, which played a role in upgrading the famous Iron Bridge in Shropshire by replacing the old wooden rails. The traditional method of casting iron has largely stayed the same ever since. We will showcase the process of moulding and producing one of our products using this time-honoured technique.

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How a Cast Iron Product is Made

Firstly, we decide what we want to produce.

a Black Metal Wall Hook with a Rectangular Plaque Displaying the Number 1 in White the Hook Has Two Screw Holes on Each Side for Mounting and Features a Curved Hook at the Bottom with a Taller Vertical Extension at the Top the Background is Black the Rustic Merchant

We have resolved to develop an updated version of our school coat hook. Although the standard model has been effective for many years, largely thanks to its superior number display, the portrait-oriented viewing position has presented certain limitations. Introducing a square window to this model, we anticipate the opportunity to craft a broad array of new designs.

 

Making the First Template

a Wooden Toggle Switch with a Lever and a Hook at the Bottom the Switch Has Yellow Insulation or Marking Near the Base and Around the Central Part the Rustic Merchant

The initial phase of tool creation involves designing a model template. For example, a wooden prototype of a coat hook is crafted. This prototype is subsequently pressed into specially prepared sand to create impressions on both sides. Following this, molten iron is poured into the mould. After the iron solidifies, the mould is broken apart to unveil the first casting.

The first Casting

a Rusted Square shaped Metal Object with a Central Square Cutout and Three Protruding Tabs on the Edges One on Each of the Top Left and Bottom Sides the Edges Appear Worn and the Object Casts a Shadow to the Right Against a Black Background the Rustic Merchant

The casting looks rough and uneven due to the wooden mould used. Although wood isn’t perfect for smooth castings, it’s beneficial for making initial prototypes. Here, it enabled the production of the first mould. The subsequent step involves refining the casting through grinding to achieve the desired finish. This will result in a smooth and polished prototype, forming the foundation for our new hook design.

a Metal Mechanical Part with an Elongated Handle and a Rectangular Opening at One End There Are Multiple Holes Around the Opening Possibly for Screws or Bolts the Part Appears Worn and Has a Rough Texture the Rustic Merchant

 

Begin Casting

The coat hook, now cleaned and polished, showcases its freshly squared centre. This cast iron hook is primed for recasting, facilitating the production of additional hooks. Each will be hand-finished, underscoring our dedication to authentic hand-cast craftsmanship. Consequently, while our products will bear resemblance, each will have a unique character. This principle is applied across our full line of cast iron hooks, handles, and hinges.

a Metallic L shaped Industrial or Machine Part with a Rectangular Base Containing Four Holes Likely for Screws or Bolts and an Elongated Arm Extending Upwards at a Right Angle the Part Appears to Be Designed for Mounting or Supporting Purposes the Rustic Merchant

 

The Final Hook

The coat hook is now complete. As evident, the finish matches that of the first image, resulting in a square window. During the creation of the tooling for this coat hook, a landscape variant was also produced. Consequently, we now offer three distinctive styles of this Black Coat Hook Portrait, Square, Landscape, exclusive to our collection. These will be available in stock soon, once the artwork is finalized.

School Coat Hooks

 

Our Three New Hooks

Portrait ♦ Square ♦ Landscape

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More of Our Cast Iron Hooks

Coat Hook House Design the Rustic Merchant

We also present an extensive array of ornate cast iron antique hangers and hooks. This collection features our cherished ‘Home Sweet Home’ hook among others with equestrian motifs, which pair well with the traditional horse brasses often found adorning fireplace mantels.

 

Our handcrafted Traditional Hooks are available and ready to be dispatched from Somerset, ensuring delivery to your doorstep within 3-5 working days. Wall-mounted fireplace toolsets are becoming increasingly popular, serving as a stylish alternative to conventional freestanding sets. Our unique hand-forged hooks offer an attractive setup that enhances your fireplace’s appeal. Whether you need just one or several, you can order the precise number of hooks required for your set of tools.

Incorporate the latest design trends into your home by adding our hooks to your hearth decor. They also make the perfect addition for a seasonal touch, ideal for hanging your family’s Christmas stockings.

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What Hook do I Need?

Selecting the appropriate hook is a personal choice. We offer two varieties: Wrought Iron and Cast Iron. Our cast iron hooks are typically utilized for hanging coats, scarves, and the like, often found in hallways, but they can be placed anywhere in your home. Our hand-forged hooks are versatile, serving as kitchen hangers for cups, tea towels, keys, and more, as well as hooks for hallways and bedrooms, or anywhere in your home to create that traditional rustic farmhouse ambiance.

What is the Best Hook for Keys?

What is a Good Key hook?

 

Above we have selected some of our hooks that are great for hanging keys. As you can see, we offer these small size 1 hooks in different designs. We make a set of playing card hooks Hearts, Clubs, Diamonds and Spades. We also have screw in versions and square bar options. All these hooks are also available in sizes 2 3 4 so you can have them for other hanging options keeping the same theme. All these hooks are traditionally hand forged individually on the anvil. You can see more options by clicking the link below.

Home Coat Hook

 

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What Wrought Iron do I Need?

Our collection boasts a wide range of hand-forged pieces, catering to various tastes with items like black wrought iron handles, latches, hinges, and cabin hooks. The carefully aged vintage ironmongery we create offers a true touch of authenticity to any home. We take pride in our selection and invite enthusiasts of genuine, handcrafted ironwork to discover our offerings.

a Black Metal Sliding Bolt Latch with a Rectangular Base Plate and Cylindrical Bolt Used for Securing Doors or Gates the Latch Has Two Screw Holes on Each Side for Installation the Bolt Can Be Slid into a Matching Catch to Lock the Rustic Merchant

an Iron T hinge with a Flat Rectangular Base Attached to a Wider Decorative Pointed Strap the Hinge Has Two Circular Holes for Screws on the Base and Three on the Strap It is Set Against a Black Background the Rustic Merchant

The rarity of genuine wrought iron is on the rise due to its laborious and costly manufacturing process. Historically, blacksmiths mould the white-hot metal using tongs and a steam hammer. Yet, with the advent of less expensive contemporary materials like steel, the production of wrought iron has dwindled, making it nearly twice as expensive as steel. Today, incorporating wrought iron elements into your home decor can provide a distinctive and attractive look.

a Single Black Metal Hook with a Hole at the Top for Mounting is Set Against a Black Background the Hook is Curved at a Right Angle with a Flat End Showing Signs of Wear and Rustic Texture the Rustic Merchant

a Rustic Black Metal Latch with a Hooked Bar and Two Looped Eyelets for Securing the Latch Arranged Parallel to Each Other the Left Eyelet is Attached to the Hooked Bar While the Right Eyelet is Open to Receive the Hook the Rustic Merchant

The charm of incorporating handcrafted items into a home is greatly appreciated. Picturing a blacksmith labouring, shaping wrought iron on an anvil with the glow of a coal forge behind them, not only evokes a romantic image but also highlights the technical superiority of wrought iron above cast iron.

Modern materials have been revolutionized by the addition of glasslike iron silicate to the smelting process, which endows the material with remarkable malleability when heated. The fibrous structure of this material absorbs stress, leading to a lighter weight and enabling the creation of complex curves and twists that distinguish wrought iron accessories. Additionally, the presence of silicate enhances corrosion resistance, rendering wrought iron exceptionally durable against harsh weather conditions, ideal for outdoor features like doors and windows where both aesthetics and durability are essential.

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the Rustic MerchantThe Rustic Merchant is proud to present an outstanding range of wrought iron products that marry high quality with reasonable prices. Discover our variety of wrought iron handles, latches, and Gothic candle holders, all crafted to add distinctive charm to your home.

Wrought ironwork, an art form with a history spanning thousands of years, enjoyed renewed popularity in the 16th century, becoming a preferred decorative element for doors and windows. It conjures images of Baroque balustrades’ elegance, Victorian gazebos’ allure, and the enduring beauty of Tudor candelabras

 

 

 

A Brief History of Hinges

The Marvel of Hinges. Have you ever considered the marvel of the humble hinge? This unassuming yet brilliant invention is crucial: without it, our doors and windows wouldn’t swing open, our refrigerators wouldn’t seal properly, and the lids on our kettles wouldn’t flip open and shut effortlessly.

Historically, as with many technological innovations, hinges were expensive to produce and were thus prized by the affluent, as well as by religious and political dignitaries. Ornate hinges, both large and small, were used to display wealth and signify authority on items ranging from castle gates to jewellery clasps. Their application in military apparatus, such as trebuchets and crossbows, was advantageous and helped promote the dissemination of hinge technology during the Middle Ages.

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The Industrial Revolution caused a dramatic transformation in hinge production, making them less expensive and simpler to manufacture. As machinery increasingly relied on hinged parts, the need for hinges surged. Innovations like ball bearings, which allow for smoother movement, solidified their widespread.

 

THinges/Tee Hinges

When you change the latch on your door, it’s also worth considering replacing the hinges to ensure that all fittings match and have a similar appearance of age. The T-hinge, also known as Tee Hinge, is among the most popular choices for rustic hinges.

T Hinge 18 Inch

 

These hinges are flush-mounted, not recessed into the door, and are used where functionality takes precedence over aesthetics. T-hinges are commonly used for garage doors, chest lids, and various utility tasks, with ornamental options also available. Our extensive selection of T-hinges is ideal for exterior applications like gates and fencing, offering more decorative appeal than standard two-face hinges. The T side, or leaf, is significantly longer than the opposing mounting face, and we provide a variety of styles with free delivery in the UK. The T-hinge, or tee-hinge, is T-shaped, the horizontal part attaches to the door frame and the vertical part to the door. Tee hinges combine the features of standard butt hinges with strap hinges used on gates, with one leaf being square or rectangular and the other long and narrow.

Penny Hinges

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Choosing the right size hinges is crucial, and if you’re here, it’s likely you’re considering a wrought iron T-hinge. This post will guide you through the process of selecting the appropriate hinge for full-size doors, and we will address smaller doors subsequently.

Before starting the process of changing or fitting new hinges, it’s crucial to adhere to certain essential steps, regardless of whether the hinges are new or old. Do not store a door against a wall, as it may warp. Instead, lay it flat on the ground, elevated on spacers to avoid ground contact. When stacking multiple doors, insert spacers between them to promote air flow and ensure they remain dry. Ideally, store the doors in the room where they will be installed to allow the wood to acclimate to that specific environment.

What Is the Best Hinge Size for My Door?

Typically, a T-hinge is recommended to be half the width of the door; for example, an 18-inch hinge would suit a 36-inch door. Nevertheless, our hand-forged hinges are remarkably robust, making a 15-inch hinge adequate for such a door, though a smaller size would not be recommended. Hinge design is a matter of personal taste, and for a harmonious look, you might consider a matching Suffolk latch. Our selection includes three designs: Penny End/Bean End, Arrowhead, and Fleur de Lys.

How Many Hinges Should I Use for My Door?

Generally, it is recommended to fit a ledge and brace door with three hinges. This is especially important when installing a new door, like an oak door, which needs to adjust to the room’s environment. Without secure attachment, there’s a risk the door could warp.

How do I Choose Hinges for Small Doors?

In the context of small doors, we’re usually referring to kitchen cupboard doors, under-stair doors, and the doors of trunks and boxes. These doors tend to be lighter, so smaller hinges are appropriate. Our 4-inch T-hinges, available in three styles, are an excellent option and can be matched with our handles. We also have a selection of smaller hinges available for viewing in our store.

Jump to our Hinges using the link below

Hinges-Door-fittings

 

 

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Which Rustic Suffolk Thumb Latch Should I Choose?

When choosing a thumb latch for your door, the main factor to consider is the thickness of the door. For ledged and braced or plank doors, it is essential to decide on the latch’s position to determine if it will go through a single plank or double planks.

Our thumb latches are available in various sizes to accommodate doorGe6407 fleur de lys thumb latch 8 172870 nobg the Rustic Merchant Our doors are available in thicknesses of up to 60mm and are paired with handles of various sizes to complement your door’s dimensions. Select the latch style that suits your taste. We provide handcrafted bean end, fleur de lys, or arrowhead latches, each forged on our blacksmith’s anvil, which adds a unique rustic appeal to your door. For a unified look, you might want to match the latch style with your hinges

 

Latch Types

A door latch is typically a metal mechanism that secures a door in place, consisting of a bar that fits into a corresponding holder to prevent the door from moving. Rustic versions are made with less precise tolerances, allowing for a looser fit.

At the Rustic Merchant we have a huge selection of rustic, vintage, authentic and antique looking door latches suitable for interior or exterior fitting.

Here we explain the different types of latches available:

Gate Latch

Latches for gates are typically smaller in profile and vary in design. They are commonly found on garden gates, where they lock one wooden piece to another, providing a solid locking mechanism as opposed to using a rope to keep the gate closed loosely.

Latch Hardware

Certainly, the type of latch you choose will depend on the material of the surface it’s being attached to. You’ll need to use appropriate hardware, such as nuts and bolts, to securely affix the latch to the door or gate you wish to install it on.

Rustic Latch

A rustic latch functions similarly to a standard latch, but it differs in appearance due to the finish applied or its manufacturing process. A forged latch is considered rustic because it possesses natural imperfections, which contribute to its appeal.

Traditional Latch

Traditional latches stand out due to their design, which replicates the specific style of a particular era, making them suitable for certain types of buildings. If you aim to maintain an older aesthetic in a grade-listed building, choosing traditional furnishings such as a traditional latch would be ideal.

Hand Forged Latch

A hand-forged latch is precisely what it sounds like: a latch crafted through traditional forging methods, bestowing upon it a rustic charm typically linked with classic designs.

Suffolk Latch

A Suffolk latch is commonly used to secure garden gates, consisting of two straight bars that intersect at a right angle. One bar lifts the other, releasing it from its catch and allowing the gate to open. This mechanism is supported by a swivel mount attached to the gate. A section is cut out of the gate to accommodate the thumb stud, which, when pressed, lifts the latch to unlock the gate. Suffolk latches come in various designs, including stamped or hand-forged versions.

Cupboard Latch

Cupboard latches are typically designed with a smaller profile for interior use, such as on cupboards or to secure items in chests with doors instead of lids. Due to their compact size, they may also be suitable for gate latches, depending on the desired size and aesthetic.

 

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What is the Difference Between a Suffolk Latch and a Norfolk Latch?

 

 

In the images provided, you can see that the Norfolk Latch includes a fixing plate. This is because the Suffolk Latch, circa 1200, is an older design that was entirely hand forged. However, with the onset of the Industrial Revolution around 1750, the Norfolk latch became more cost-effective to produce as it could be factory-manufactured. We exclusively offer Suffolk Latches since they are the original design and more authentic.

Interesting Fact

In case you’re curious, it wasn’t until 1878 that the first patent for the now ubiquitous doorknob was awarded to an American inventor named Osborn Dorsey.

 

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Adjustable Slide Bolt

What is the Best Slide Bolt?

Our traditional slide bolt has been in production for many years, available in two distinct styles: Fish Tail and Rat Tail. Each style comes in two sizes, 4-inch and 6-inch, and can be either straight or cranked. Customers often inquire about the possible orientations for these bolts, whether horizontal or vertical. Thanks to our unique system, we can confidently state they work in any position. The following examples will illustrate our modifications.

Our Unique Design

 

 

Our Bolts are Slightly Different

On the standard version of a slide bolt, you’ll notice a knurl on top that prevents the bolt from sliding out of its casing. Below it, there’s a forged spring providing resistance during operation. The complexity of its hand-forged design often prompts numerous questions. We’ve substituted the knurl with a grubscrew, allowing you to adjust the tension as needed. Additionally, tightening this grubscrew can effectively lock the bolt in place. We send an Allen key in with your purchase.

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What is the Best Door Latch for Kitchens and Small Doors?

At The Rustic Merchant, we offer a variety of small rustic farmhouse latches suitable for doors, wardrobes, shutters, or cupboards. While you may encounter similar designs elsewhere, our unique selling point is the availability of different sizes, expanding your options. We present four versions 2″, 3″, 4″ and 5″ of this catch/latch, all featuring a straightforward cast iron design that ensures durability and longevity.

 

New and Exclusive to The Rustic Merchant

The advent of spring is a delightful time, particularly as we observe nature’s reawakening. At the Rustic Merchant, located in the idyllic countryside of Somerset, our garden is alive with the hallmarks of spring. Our newest range of handcrafted cast iron plant potholders provides an enchanting showcase for spring flowers such as primroses, hyacinths, and Lent lilies. They come in single, double, and triple pot sizes, each featuring a decorative back plate with a unique design and the Rustic Merchant’s signature branding. The potholder rings are attached to the back plate with hinges, which allows for them to be folded down when not in use.



  • Cast Iron Plant Pot Holder the Rustic Merchant

 

Wall Mount Flowerpot Holder

 

Wall Mounted Flowerpot Holder 16.5mmCast Iron Plant Pot Holder the Rustic Merchant

 

 

 

 

 

OUR POPULAR FILM PROPS

Our Knowledge Base

Our Knowledge Base we will show you some of the things we supply props to. We supply numerous film companies with our products, which are frequently used in period and historical productions. You will see further details in Our Knowledge Base selection including high-quality wrought iron rustic items that are ideal for such historical portrayals.

Our rusted chains have become extremely popular due to their strength. Below is an example. Additionally, our candle sconces are consistently in demand, and our rustic hand-forged hinges are commonly utilized.

 

Rusty Chain for Your Garden

A vintage rusted chain is an excellent addition to various garden projects, and with spring on the horizon, now is the perfect time to start adorning your garden for the sunny days to come. Creating a focal point in your garden is crucial, and what better way to achieve this than by crafting unique garden art with our rusted industrial hanging chain? We offer both 6mm and 8mm link chains, cut to the length you need.

The images in our Knowledge Base display the authentically vintage, rusty texture that complements a diverse array of garden styles – from wrought iron rustic country gardens and architectural steampunk industrial art projects to shabby chic weathered hurricane lanterns. Our antique rusted chain has also been utilized by the National Trust at Standen House in West Sussex, where it serves as an aesthetically pleasing hanging chain link fence in the rejuvenated Quarry Garden.

Aged, rusty chain segments serve as excellent industrial-style hangers for displaying hanging baskets, wind chimes, and various garden ornaments, including rain chains. The weathered patina of the rusted metal requires no upkeep or shielding from the weather, preserving its rich hue throughout the year.

 

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Listed Building Consent

Maintaining listed buildings is a challenging task. The original fixtures and fittings frequently need repair or modification and refurbishing a period property while adhering to legal requirements can be daunting. Alterations or extensions to a listed building that affect its character or appearance as a structure of special architectural or historical importance require consultation with the local planning authority. It is vital not to start any work without the required consent, as this is a criminal offense and could complicate future property transactions. For guidance on whether Listed Building Consent is needed, refer to the resources provided by Historic England or the Country Land and Business Association.

To comply with planning regulations and simplify the application process, like Major repairs and renovations to a listed building require consent from the local planning authority, which evaluates each application. Work that changes the internal or external appearance usually needs this consent, and local planning officers can offer property-specific advice. Advice. Or like replacements are recommended when possible. The Rustic Merchant has been dedicated to providing high-quality, handcrafted wrought iron hardware at reasonable prices since its establishment. Finding vintage ironmongery in reclamation yards and antique shops for period homes can be costly and time-consuming, often with little chance of finding matching pieces.

Our coordinated collections of door hinges, latches, and handles enable cost-effective refurbishment of listed buildings with consistent fixtures, avoiding the need for retrospective consent. Our period window fittings are ideal for preserving the authentic look and structural integrity of listed building windows needing replacement due to decay or weathering. Understanding the need for prompt product delivery in renovation projects, we ship our items from stock within the UK, typically within 2-3 days after ordering

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Bespoke Kitchen Design Project

We are thrilled to announce our participation in custom kitchen projects through our Kitchens and Furniture, Hooks and Handles. We partner with bespoke kitchen designers seeking authentic Rustic Farmhouse products.

Silvana robinson kitchen the Rustic Merchant

 

Attention to Detail

 

In pursuit of the perfect custom kitchen accessories, we craft handles and hooks that boast a rustic yet sophisticated design, all in a definitive black. These pieces will splendidly complement your cupboards and drawers and are designed to coordinate seamlessly with our black shelf brackets.

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Utility Hooks

Brewood utility bench3 the Rustic Merchant

Alongside The Rustic Merchant’s pull handles and hooks, our Victorian coat hooks have been affixed to a utility wall, bestowing a sense of quality and timelessness upon the new kitchen that only hand-forged iron can provide. This efficient use of space is not only practical but also visually appealing. Kitchen hooks are in constant demand for hanging aprons, tea towels, herbs for drying, or even utensils and mugs; we invite you to explore our extensive selection of black iron hooks, available in a variety of styles and sizes.

Our cast iron bow handles and wrought iron cabinet handles, as well as other Rustic Merchant products, will enhance your kitchen, whether it’s a new addition to the room or a complete renovation. Please view our comprehensive range

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Key Hangers

We recently contacted our valued customers to learn about their progress with creative refurbishment projects using our rustic ironmongery. It was a delight to witness the outcomes during the lockdown period.

Paul Allen created an impressive coat rack from a reclaimed scaffold board, which he enhanced with our classic 3-inch arrowhead hooks.

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The rustic reclaimed wood has been expertly sanded to bring out its natural beauty, which pairs well with the elegant twist of the black wrought iron hooks. Our arrowhead hooks are available in various sizes, and these three-inch ones are just the right fit. Paul has created a coat rack as a Christmas gift for his brother and sister-in-law’s new home—a truly unique and personal holiday present.

Furthermore, Pippa Morris from the picturesque region of Wales has bought six of our 2.5-inch arrowhead hooks. In contrast to the earlier mentioned three-inch hooks, these smaller ones do not include the candy twist.

Pippa morris key holder the Rustic Merchant

The simple, petite design of these hooks allows for easy attachment of key rings and offers an appealing storage option with a distinctive, rustic appearance.

Our extensive selection includes a variety of cast and wrought iron items, perfect for projects that require stylish hanging solutions for cups, coats, and keys. Explore our range and find inspiration for your upcoming craft endeavours!

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Restoration Projects

In addition to home improvements, furniture restoration has become a popular hobby. With people confined indoors, many are taking advantage of the time at home to learn new skills and upcycle furniture. Revitalizing an old wardrobe or chest of drawers can be simpler than expected, not only reducing waste but also providing useful new storage for your home.

Upcycling furniture to rejuvenate it is not just about cost savings. It involves the thrill of the hunt, finding a forgotten dresser, chest, or wardrobe and converting it into a bespoke showpiece that becomes a point of pride. With a bit of sandpaper, some paint, and a handful of accessories, even the most ordinary sideboards, dressing tables, or bathroom cabinets can be turned into focal points of conversation.

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Sand it

When refurbishing wooden furniture, it’s crucial to begin with sanding to remove any remnants of old paint jobs; this ensures a smooth finish. Employing 150-grit sandpaper provides a good texture for the primer to adhere to. For larger areas, an electric sander is efficient, while hand sanding might be better for intricate details.

Prime it

If your furniture has been painted or varnished before, applying a multi-surface primer is advisable. Primer ensures optimal adhesion for the finishing coat and offers protection against chipping and staining.

Paint it

Chalk paints are excellent for achieving a vintage look and using a sponge roller instead of a brush can result in a more uniform distribution of paint on the item’s surface. Spray paints are also effective, especially for metal surfaces. For a rustic, natural appearance, consider using a wood stain or wax to enhance the natural wood’s colour.

 

 

The three cast iron coat hooks, positioned above the headboard in the master bedroom, now support three dark wood-framed mirrors. This arrangement enhances the room with a wonderful sense of light and space. The Victorian-style black iron hooks blend seamlessly with the dark wood furniture and traditional Victorian fireplace, creating a cozy, traditional, and inviting bedroom ambiance.

Here’s what John had to say about our customer service:

“We received our package from you folks. I can’t express how pleased we are with our purchase. A huge thank you for all the communication! Please let me know if there’s a place to leave a review on your site, as I would like to write a glowing one with 5 stars!”

Perfect fit

This week, we received a charming email from a woman seeking latches for her rustic shutters. There was a significant gap where the shutters met, allowing us to recommend the appropriate style and size of latches to ensure they closed securely and neatly.

This email made our day!

“I installed all the latches last evening, and I’m thrilled!

I’m extremely glad I sought your advice regarding the gap between the shutters, and you were spot on with the size needed!

My installation may not be flawless, but as the photos show, the shutters have a very rustic look, being simply old planks!

Your latches’ style complements them perfectly, and the delivery was prompt too.

Thank you – a very satisfied customer.”

Understanding our handmade products thoroughly, we’re always ready to address any inquiries about exact sizing or dimensions before you make a purchase. We store our products on-site in Somerset – we’re not a huge warehouse operated by robots, so we’re on hand to assist in selecting the ideal product for your project.

 

 

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What our customers say about us

We’re fortunate to have wonderful customers who have generously shared photos of their projects using our vintage iron hooks, handles, and hinges. Why keep these treasures hidden? Below is a showcase of our customers’ endeavour’s – may they spark your creativity with our exquisite hand-forged ironmongery!

Old Farmhouse Using some of our Products


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Deb’s exquisite cabinet is complemented perfectly by the black fleur-de-lis hinges and the charming small cabin hook that secures the doors shut.

 

Ian’s 15th-century house features a distinctive galleried dining room, where he has installed 10-inch bean head handles as grips for accessing the mezzanine. Locating matching antique handles often involves extensive searching through reclamation yards, so the convenience of ordering everything from a single source, coupled with an easy return policy and competitive pricing, can result in significant time and cost savings.

 

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Feature Hooks for Your Hallway

We’re delighted with Kieron’s work on our Edwardian-style Voysey coat hooks. The 300-year-old oak gunwale offers a stunning backdrop for these robust hooks, and the sleek design of the cast iron hooks complements both a contemporary modern hallway and a traditional period property equally well.

 

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Great Customer Service


Lynn required the candle spikes on her gothic sconces removed since she prefers LED candles over traditional wax ones. We gladly assisted with this request and promptly dispatched the customized candle holders to her. We were delighted to receive her positive feedback on our products and customer service, and we were just as pleased to view the photos of the sconces in place, beautifully enhancing her living room.

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