FAQs

Some Helpful Information
  • You can ship ironwork?    Absolutely.  Sure, most of my work is heavier than a coffee mug, but if the last few years has taught us anything, it's that just about everything can be shipped anywhere.
  • What is the finish on the metal?   After forging and assembly, all of my products are brushed with a wire wheel, then heated to around 200 degrees, and finally a natural paste wax is brushed on.  Unlike paint, a wax finish is easy to maintain and allows the ironwork to patina with time.
  • Can I put these pieces outside?   As a general rule, it's best to keep them inside where they are protected from rain and snow.  However, if you are looking for something that can go outside, feel free to contact me to discuss the options.
  • Is any maintenance required?   This depends on you and where you live.  Once or twice a year, it's best to apply a wax-based furniture polish to a clean lint-free cloth, and rub it onto the iron.  Then, you can buff it with a clean dry cloth to bring up a shine.  Over time, successive coats of wax build up to give the iron a depth and luster that is truly beautiful.  But if your life is anything like mine, it may be hard to find time (or remember) to carry out this simple maintenance.  And that's just fine.  It's not uncommon for me to go years and years without waxing the ironwork that is in my home and it's none the worst for it.  However, if you live close to an ocean or in an extremely humid area, I would recommend spending the few minutes once or twice a year to keep your ironwork looking spectacular.
  • Will it rust?   Yes, and you want it to!  With time, and especially with routine applications of wax, ironwork gains a deep rich redish-brown luster.  This is how ironwork patinas.  That patina is a micro-layer of rust forming under the wax.  And it looks gorgeous!  However, if rust forms in a localized area and is bumpy to the touch, then a few minutes of rubbing it out with a fine grit sandpaper or scotch bright pad will remove the offending blemish.  Rub some wax on, and it's as good as new.