Wrought Iron Furniture In South Africa

Most of the wrought iron furniture in South Africa is hand made. A wrought iron piece starts out with solid bars and rods of iron. The bars are placed in the forge and heated until then reach the temperature just below their melting point. This is usually referred to as being "white hot". At this temperature, the iron becomes malleable or bendable. Next, it is hammered on an anvil by the blacksmith. The blacksmith will shape the soft iron into whatever shape is called for by the designer's drawings and measurements.

The material used most often today to produce " wrought iron" furniture in South Africa products is hot- and cold-rolled mild steel. Both metals are a silvery-gray color when brushed down to their natural color. Unfortunately, both are susceptible to corrosion, and will rust if left unprotected outdoors.

Because of its tendency to corrode, wrought iron needs a protective coating for all uses, but especially for exterior installations of wrought iron. Typically the manufacturer will apply first and anti-rust primer and then a top coat of outdoor (usually acrylic) paint. The most popular color used is flat black, but any color and gloss level of paint may be chosen. Since Interior applications of wrought iron need less protection, and lend themselves to many more choices of finishes than exterior applications.

There are many type of furnishing made from wrought iron. One of my favorites is the exquisite dining room tables that have an oval tinted glass top. I saw one set with a deep red tint to the glass that had matching ladder back chairs, with deep soft cushions approximated the same shade as the tint in the table�s glass top.

The was an accompanying hutch and sideboard, the cabinet doors and drawer fronts were made of the same tinted glass as the table top. The drawer bodies were made of metal and covered with felt so they would made a tinny sound when opened and closed.

I�ve also seen some extremely attractive copper and steel looking finishes on wrought iron furniture, but personally, I like the flat black the best. I�m sure powder coating is just around the corner.