From Motorhead To Metalsmith

When it comes to metalwork, Bill Mogavero of Custom Metal Fabrications Inc. has done it all. Bill, who's had a lifelong love for hot rods, began welding right out of high school, and then moved on to sheet metal and structural. And while he was making a living, he was souping up cars on the side. After leaving the structural shop, Bill began fabricating miscellaneous jobs out of his racecar garage and produced everything from rotted floors in cars to truck accessories. 

One day, Bill got hold of the July/August 1992 issue of Fabricator magazine, which featured a spectacular cover shot of NOMMA member John Graney at his forge. The photo was an eye-opener, and shortly afterwards, Bill began attending ABANA meetings and buying up every blacksmithing book he could find.

Today, his shop in historic Westbury, N.Y. produces a full line of metalwork including forged and non-forged railings, gates, and furniture. He is one of the few traditional blacksmiths on Long Island and has done work for such prestigious buildings as the Oheka Castle, the famous home of millionaire Otto Kahn. He's also produced elaborate jobs for fine homes throughout the island and one of his memorable projects was a home in Brookville, N.Y. that required 600 feet of interior and exterior railing.

Daniel, Todd. "From Motorhead To Metalsmith." Ornamental & Miscellaneous Metal Fabricator. July/August 2002.