What Is A Rail Spike and How to Use it For Metal Artwork

Rail Spikes

If you’ve ever walked along railroad tracks, visited a railroad museum, or dived into the world of railroad, you’ve probably seen a rail spike. These long metal nails have an offset head that allows them to be used to help secure rails and base plates to the ground. But what happens once those rail spikes come out or are no longer needed? 

For Aaron Knight, he was able to repurpose that metal railway material into unique art.

Railroad Spike Art

Using old railway metal, such as railroad spikes and other steel, Knight tells a different story through his railroad spike art pieces. The Two Man Cart Spike Men piece pays homage to the hard working men that played a large part in railway history.  Or you can take a moment to sit and reflect with the Prayer Spike Man.

Wood Work

Beyond creating beautifully imagined sculptures out of railroad spikes and other materials, Knight’s woodwork turns these railway byproducts into a functional piece, like with his Railroad Spike Coat Rack.

Garden Decor

Steel is a durable material, which is why it was chosen for railroad spikes and other railway materials. Because of the durability, Knight is able to repurpose these railway materials into beautiful garden decor. 

Make a statement in your yard with a cute Railroad Spike Snail or Railroad Spike Grasshopper. Or make this beautiful Railroad Spike Fire Pit the centerpiece of your next outdoor party.