Hand-Forged Door Pull Handles – Penny End & Gothic Styles Guide

Author: Carl Benson

Carl is the founder of Suffolk Latch Company, with a background in engineering and over 20 years’ experience in home hardware. He works closely with suppliers and designers alike to develop quality ironmongery that stands the test of time. Read my full bio.

“Every hand-forged pull handle carries the mark of the blacksmith who made it.”

Introduction

Hand-forged door pulls are part of a long tradition of British ironmongery, combining durability with authentic period detail. Each piece is made using traditional blacksmithing methods, giving it a character and individuality that modern machine-made hardware can’t replicate. In this guide, we answer common questions about styles, finishes, and uses to help you choose the right pull handles for your home.

Explore our full range of traditional hand-forged hardware to find complementary latches, hinges, and fittings.

Table of Contents

1. What are hand-forged door pulls?
2. What are the different styles of traditional pull handles?
3. What finishes and colours are available?
4. What sizes do they come in and how do I choose?
5. Can these hand-forged pulls be used outside?
6. Where can I use traditional pull handles in my home?
7. How do I maintain hand-forged pulls?
8. How do I match these pulls with other hardware?
9. Why choose hand-forged pulls instead of modern ones?

What are hand-forged door pulls?

Hand-forged door pulls are created using traditional blacksmithing techniques. Billets of mild steel are heated, hammered, and shaped by hand to form each unique handle. This craftsmanship gives every piece slight variations, adding to its character and individuality. Unlike modern machine-made pulls, which are identical and uniform, a hand-forged pull embodies true craftsmanship — offering the tactile quality and authenticity that make it ideal for period interiors and traditional hardware collections.

Hand forged arrow end pull in pewter finish

Hand forged penny end pull in black beeswax finish

What are the different styles of traditional pull handles?

Traditional pull handles come in two main styles — Penny End and Arrow. The Penny End pull handle is the most traditional design and pairs well with hand-forged Suffolk latches and Penny End T-hinges. The Gothic pull handle, with its distinctive heart-shaped ends, complements Gothic latches and Arrow-end hinges. Both designs perform identically, with the choice determined by personal preference or regional tradition, offering authentic styling for period and cottage interiors.

What finishes and colours are available?

Our hand-forged pull handles are offered in two finishes — black beeswax and pewter. The black beeswax finish is achieved by applying a black passivate paint before waxing, protecting the steel from surface oxidisation and giving a smooth low-gloss sheen once buffed. The pewter finish is created through zinc electroplating, producing a silver-grey tone that highlights the individual hammer marks. Both finishes are designed primarily for internal use and reflect traditional blacksmith craftsmanship.

Traditional hand forged suffolk latch in black beeswax finish

Traditional hand forged suffolk latch in pewter finish

What sizes do they come in and how do I choose?

Our traditional hand-forged door pulls come in three sizes — 4-inch, 6-inch, and 8-inch. The 4-inch pull suits drawers or small cupboards and is used with a finger-and-thumb action. The 6-inch, our most popular size, balances well with Gothic or Suffolk latches and allows a comfortable three-finger grip. The 8-inch pull is ideal for larger or double doors, offering a full handhold and a bold, proportional appearance.

Can these hand-forged pulls be used outside?

Our hand-forged door pulls are designed primarily for internal use. While they can be fitted externally, mild steel will oxidise continuously when exposed to moisture. The pewter finish offers slightly better resistance and may suit sheltered areas such as covered porches. For true outdoor durability, choose our Armor Coat range with a high-performance protective coating or our cast iron Tudor hardware, which stabilises naturally after initial oxidation and is ideal for external doors and gates.

Where can I use traditional pull handles in my home?

Traditional hand-forged pull handles are designed for use where access is required from one side only, such as drawers, cupboards, or pantry doors. A 4-inch pull works well on small drawers or cabinets, while a 6-inch version suits larger cupboards or internal doors. Their period styling makes them ideal for restoration projects, barn conversions, and heritage properties, where they complement traditional fittings and add authentic hand-forged character to kitchens, storage units, and utility areas.

Traditional hand forged penny end t hinges in black beeswax finish

Traditional hand forged arrow end t hinges in black pewter finish

How do I maintain hand-forged pulls?

Hand-forged pulls require minimal maintenance once installed. The black beeswax finish is supplied with a protective wax layer to prevent oxidisation during storage. Before fitting, remove any excess with a mild solvent such as white spirit, then buff lightly for a smooth low-gloss sheen. After installation, no further treatment is normally needed. The pewter finish is virtually maintenance-free — occasional cleaning with a soft, damp cloth is sufficient to keep the surface looking its best.

How do I match these pulls with other hardware?

Our hand-forged pull handles are available in two styles — Penny End and Arrow End — and two finishes, black beeswax and pewter. The Penny End pull pairs perfectly with our traditional Suffolk latches and Penny End T-hinges, while the Arrow End pull complements Gothic latches and Arrow End hinges. Choosing matching styles and finishes across your hardware creates a consistent look throughout your home. Explore our hand-forged collection to view coordinating designs.

Armor coat hand forged penny end pull exterior hardware

Armor coat hand forged suffolk latch pull exterior hardware

Why choose hand-forged pulls instead of modern ones?

Hand-forged pull handles are ideal for period properties, cottages, and barn conversions where authenticity matters. Unlike modern machine-made hardware, these pulls reflect a time when every piece was individually crafted by a local blacksmith. The subtle variations and practical designs capture the character of traditional British ironmongery, making each handle unique. Choosing hand-forged pulls helps maintain the authenticity of your restoration and preserves the craftsmanship associated with historic homes.

Conclusion

Traditional hand-forged pull handles offer a simple, dependable design that reflects centuries of British craftsmanship. Whether you choose the classic Penny End or the Gothic style, each handle brings authentic detail and lasting quality to your home. Available in black beeswax or pewter finishes, they suit period properties, barn conversions, and restoration projects alike. Explore our full range of traditional hand-forged hardware to complete your interior with matching latches, hinges, and fittings.

External Links

Conserving Conservation: The Value of Traditional Metalworking Skills