Before nails were hidden behind drywall and factory finishes, they were bold, visible, and built to last. One of the most enduring examples of this is the clavo—a decorative nail head that started out as a practical fastener and evolved into a defining element of architectural style. Today, these antique nail heads are more than just rustic accents; they’re small pieces of rustic hardware history.

Forged for Function

Long before power tools and press-fit joints, blacksmiths created old iron nails by hand, one strike at a time. In doorways, gates, trunks, and shutters, these forged nail heads were crucial. Clavos—from the Spanish word for “nails”—were often used to hold thick planks of wood in place or to reinforce heavy wooden doors.

Because they were hammered by hand, each clavo had its own personality: irregular, textured, and tough as the iron that made it. Some were shaped simply for utility; others were carefully detailed, reflecting the artisan's skill and the status of the home or building.

When Function Met Design

Over time, especially in Spanish Colonial, Mediterranean, and Western architecture, clavos became more than structural. Their bold, rugged look added an ornamental edge—symbolizing strength, craftsmanship, and permanence.

• In Spanish-style villas, rows of brass clavos lined entry doors, catching the sun and adding elegance to otherwise rugged wood.

• In Western homesteads, hand-forged old iron nails reinforced barn doors, trunks, and cabinetry—built to weather the years and tell stories in their patina.

• In Mediterranean design, they framed shutters and furniture, giving soft curves and stucco walls a striking contrast.

Today, those same styles live on in everything from rustic lodge builds to modern homes with old-world character.

Clavos Today: Decorative and Durable

At Old West Iron, we honor the roots of these forged accents. Our clavos collection includes:

• Traditional iron clavos with hand-hammered textures

• Elegant brass clavos with warm, glowing finishes

• Square, round, pyramid, and custom shapes

• Nail-in and screw-in options for real-world installs

Though many customers use them today for decorative purposes—on garage doors, cabinetry, gates, or furniture—they still serve a structural role when needed. That’s the beauty of well-made, old-style hardware: it never stopped working hard.

Add a Piece of History to Your Build

Whether you're restoring a Spanish door, finishing off a reclaimed wood project, or just want your home to feel a little more grounded—clavos connect your space to a tradition of true craftsmanship. They're a small detail with a big story.

🔗 Browse Brass and Iron Clavos →
🛠️ Hand-forged. Historically rooted. Built to outlast trends.