A reader, Sandra, wrote in the other day with a great question:
“…I’ve noticed over time that you’ve had a lot of metal pieces that you DIY’d for your home. Do you have any tips for getting that look? Or more tips on what steps you took for the pieces?…”
We’ve always been big on DIY for the home, but something people really don’t consider on the DIY level, is working with iron. And understandably so: it seems a little unattainable. Or maybe intimidating. Where does one even start?
So when people see things made of metal or iron in our home, they assume it’s purchased from a store.
Two major bonuses it comes to metal pieces:
You can actually get the exact size you want. And usually for a lot less. So we always say that this option is worth exploring, for sure!
While we’ve conquered the entire welding thing before, it doesn’t have to mean you’re strapping on a mask, and going for the architectural gold after spending hours in a shed outside while your children beg you for dinner.
We realize that sometimes, that’s just not realistic. {These have been major cons for us, so we’ve aways opted for the halfway-DIY route… aka commission a piece and provide the rest, like a custom top and special glass, etc.} So that it has it’s own custom look for a fraction of the price.
We think it’s really all about being resourceful.
Over the years, we’ve ‘created’ quite a few metal pieces in our home, and it was all about coming up with ideas, and working through them to figure out the process.
Here’s a few of the projects we’ve taken on:
So, here’s a few things we’d recommend:
We know not all projects are created equal. But over time, since we’ve taken on a few, we thought it might help to break it down with our best advice.
Decide on Your Design
Our designs were simple – sketched out on paper or via a simple computer program to take to our person… they don’t need anything fancy so simple is best. Depending on who you use, they’ll need measurements and sketched out details, so communication is essential. We say design first, so that way you know what to purchase and the overall cost of supplies when you take it to your welder.
You can act like a contractor and outsource all the pieces, or find someone who will do it all, painting included, for you. That being said…
If You Take it on Yourself:
Be sure to read up on the process, and research the cost of supplies, like the cost of a welder mask, etc.
If you’re taking on more than one piece, it’s totally worth it to invest in the actual mask and blow torch… you may end up really enjoying it. Otherwise, be sure to research the alternative so that you can weigh all the pros and cons.
Regarding all things welders:
Did you know that mechanics have access to, and are probably welders on the side? Your friend’s husband’s sister may be a welder, and you may not even know it.
Or, there may be a professional welder in your area that takes on custom jobs.
Our point? Ask around.
In our last town, those were harder to come by so an amazing friend helped us out. In our new home, we just had this custom staircase designed and built, for a reasonable price… and it was amazing.
Just a side note: One company we’ve worked with in the past that we absolutely love is, Bold Manufacturing. We found him through Etsy. Be sure to check out artisans online, too… if you feel like local sources are limited, and you’d like something semi-custom. Options are out there.
At the end of the day, you never know who you can access/hire to help with all things welding and the process. It all depends on how much effort you want to put into it… as a hobby on your own {cost = time + supplies} or just monetarily {cost = money} Remember, everything costs something… that something is always different from the last.
On metal:
• You have options – try a salvage yard or a local supplier. And price them out, accordingly. Avoid big box stores if you can – chances are, they won’t have it anyway.
• If someone welds it for you and painting isn’t included, just know that iron oxidizes, and fast. So make sure you coat it with something quickly when you get the finished product into your hands. Spray paint is best. {Read: don’t do what I lost my everlovingmind and did} for your desk, and decide that gold foiling is a thing. NOPE.
• Alway consider what you can add to make it your own, like cut glass for a desk, or a wooden top. The possibilities really are kind of endless!
We hope this little round up and recap helps get you started in the right direction of all things fun custom pieces for your home! Or maybe just gets those wheels turning. We’ love to see what you do so keep us posted, Sandra!
As always, let us know if you have any questions, or if we can point you toward another post that may help.
Have an inspired day!
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