The Value of Forged Curtain Poles: Why They’re Worth the Investment

Pig Tail Finial Curtain Pole

Curtain poles aren’t usually the first thing people think of when they’re renovating a room, but they make an enormous difference to the overall feel of a space. Over the past few years I’ve steadily refined my approach to hand-forged curtain poles, and they’ve quietly become one of the most popular and rewarding pieces I make. If you’re considering them for your home, here’s why they stand apart from anything mass-produced.

Strength and longevity

A forged curtain pole is made from solid steel and shaped under the hammer. There are no weak welded joints, no thin hollow tubes, no decorative pieces glued into place. They’re built to last a lifetime, and they behave like it: strong, stable and reassuringly weighty. You feel the quality the moment you handle them.

Designed to suit your space

Most mass-produced poles rely on generic finials and finishes, which often look out of place in a well-considered interior. Forged poles allow for far more refinement. The finials can be simple or sculptural. The brackets can be discreet or bold. The entire pole can feel contemporary, traditional or somewhere in between. Because each piece is made to measure, it’s possible to design something that genuinely belongs in the room rather than something that merely fills the gap.

Consistency across a home

One of the advantages of hand-forged poles is the ability to create a cohesive aesthetic across multiple rooms. Whether you need a single statement pole or several across different window sizes, the forging process gives them a shared character. The subtle texture of hammer marks creates a sense of continuity that’s difficult to replicate with anything factory-made.

Finials as sculptural details

The finial is often the defining feature of a curtain pole, and when it’s forged rather than cast, the difference is immediately noticeable. The metal moves under heat and pressure, and the final shape always carries a sense of motion and intention. Even the simplest finial has presence. This is where the artistry of the craft really shows.

Detail of a Loop Finial Curtain Pole

Why forged, not fabricated

It’s easy to assume that all metal poles are equal, but fabrication and forging produce very different results. Fabricated poles rely on cutting, welding and assembly. Forging reshapes the steel itself. The difference in strength, finish and feel is considerable. Forged poles aren’t just functional objects, they’re part of the room’s architecture.

How to order

If you’re thinking about adding forged curtain poles to your home, I’ve put together a category in my shop where you can explore the different designs, finishes and sizes available. They’re some of my most carefully made pieces, and they remain one of the best ways to bring handmade craftsmanship into a space in a subtle, functional way.