I've recently builded the Rune Forge, in Ravensthorpe, and I was expecting to use it at its full potential, since I've acquired many sets, weapons, shields and bows, from the Animus store. But, it seems that's not the case. The only items, from where I could forge a custom rune, are the ones I've found during my time spent in England. I see this as a serious issue, since many youtubers posted their use of the forge with helix items as well. I've created a video to describe it as well, here:
I hope it will be fixed soon.