Yes, they are metal pipes/fittings that I got from Lowe’s (local hardware store). I used a spray paint with the term “hammered” in the name, it gives a nice textured metal coating, since they don’t look this nice off the store shelves!

I used strong dish soap and a scrub brush to get them dirt and grease free, then assembled and put them in the oven at 200 degrees (F) for 30 minutes to dry. Then put on rubber gloves to handle (no skin oils) and painted them. Have had no issues with the paint chipping off or anything like that.

Google search:

threaded galvanized pipe

Thanks! Yeah I always loved reading that sub for ideas and inspiration.