Just outside of Dripping Springs, in a small barn nestled among the oaks, a roaring forge brings steel to life. Here, Iron Grove Tool Company creates handmade knives, cookware, and tools, equal parts functional and heirloom-worthy art. Founded in 2016 by Daniel Collier, a former Union welder turned bladesmith, Iron Grove’s path from backyard hobby to international artisan brand has been as carefully crafted as the knives it produces.
“I started Iron Grove in 2016, shortly after moving to Drip from Austin,” says Daniel. “But bladesmithing was something I had been playing around with for years before that.” His first introduction to forging came in 2012 while working as a welder by day and taking steel sculpture classes at night. It was a personal challenge to impress his then-girlfriend, Lynne, a chef and restaurant co-owner, that sparked the idea to make his first chef knife.
“I had to make quite a few before I earned her approval,” Daniel recalls. “But it must’ve worked: We’ve been married since 2014.”
After the birth of their first son, the couple moved to a few acres in Dripping Springs. With Lynne’s encouragement, Daniel converted a small barn on the property into his first shop. He began posting photos of his knives and tools on social media, and the interest quickly grew. Today, Iron Grove is a team of four, handcrafting finely honed tools that are shipped around the globe.
Iron Grove specializes in culinary knives and cookware forged with a blend of traditional blacksmithing and modern technique. “Every piece is made from raw materials in-house. We hand-forge, heat treat in electric kilns and grind each tool without jigs or templates,” Daniel explains. “Even if it’s the same model, no two are exactly alike.”
While originating in the Texas BBQ scene, Iron Grove’s tools are now featured at BBQ festivals around the world, from Japan to Ireland and Australia. “Texas BBQ is globally respected as a regional ethnic cuisine,” says Daniel. “We’re proud to have our tools used on that stage.”
Iron Grove features its Homestead Collection, repeatable models made in small batches, and the Signature Collection, for which each knife is designed and made by Daniel alone. The company also does custom work, bulk wholesale, and retail fulfillment.
Looking ahead, Daniel hopes to expand locally and offer more home design items crafted with the same precision and care. He’s also passionate about teaching. “We offer hands-on forging classes for adults and kids aged 10 and up. People come in, learn to forge, and leave with their own handmade tool. It’s a powerful experience.”
Iron Grove Tool Company is more than a local success story; it’s an example of passion, persistence, and hand-forged legacy.
IronGroveToolCompany.com | @irongrovetoolco
Get Your Hands Dirty
Want to make your own custom tool? Iron Grove offers forging classes for all skill levels right at its Dripping Springs shop. Choose from half-day, full-day, or multi-day sessions, with projects ranging from basic blades to custom cookware. Classes are open to adults and kids aged 10 and older, with all tools and materials provided. Whether you’re a hobbyist, foodie, or looking for a unique gift experience, you’ll leave with new skills and your own handmade creation. Explore upcoming classes and sign up at IronGroveToolCompany.com/classes.