Let's Make Conchos!!

[@amyinthemaking1217]

Your editing is hilarious. I will never not laugh at a fart joke. Also, that stamp will forever be the eyelash stamp to me. Thanks for the laughs but more importantly thanks for the information and your time.

[@JimBrandvik]

Hey Amy, I don't know how I missed this comment. But hey, better late than never! Thanks for watching!

[@johnmusick1486]

I've always been looking for a hobby that I would enjoy. This looks like this might be it!

[@JimBrandvik]

Go for it!

[@juliabonilla5111]

Amazing. I love your work. I'd like to get started this year.

[@JimBrandvik]

Thanks! You should go for it!!

[@wynsday]

i’m native (navajo) which is one tribe conchos came from :) (we made concho belts famous! conchos themselves came from the pueblo tribes :) )i’m trying to get into metal work and make some jewelry :) thanks for the video! 💕

[@JimBrandvik]

Hi Wynsday! Best of luck in your metal smithing endeavors!

[@wynsday]

@@JimBrandvik I love your videos! I hope you make some more in the future! :))

[@Dan-zc1hg]

Where can I buy this set up.

[@Dan-zc1hg]

I do leather work this really has my interest

[@danalicking1412]

Jim, this is absolutely the COOLEST TOOL!!!!! I can't wait to see the next Concho options. Thanks for putting this together. Love your video's as well, keep them coming.

[@carlyaustin9174]

What is this press called?

[@JimBrandvik]

@@carlyaustin9174 it came from potterusa.com but I don’t think they make this exact one anymore

[@melodyrae88]

I really love this system and can't wait to get mine! One of my favorite features is not having to cut off the little tab!! Very thoughtful design. Thanks, Jim!!

[@mimib3257]

Jim I absolutely love your system! Now if you could only improve my stamping skills! Thank you for this incredible design!

[@annmenking7694]

Just ordered mine and cannot WAIT to get it! You're a genius! Thank you!

[@kennethrichey8143]

This system is awesome.... thanks Jim for this.... I am now in love with making Conchos....

[@JimBrandvik]

Thanks Kenneth!

[@haroldmiller5716]

I like your system very much. I also like to work with turquoise. I would like to use your system to make a concho and be able to set a round turquoise stone at the center of the concho. I saw one of your photos with turquoise set in a concho. How could I make a place in the concho to set the stone.

[@JimBrandvik]

Thanks, Harold! I have a die for the 1.5" kit that is designed to give you exactly what you are asking for. Here is the link. www.etsy.com/listing/692814863/impression-die-stylized-daisy It is suitable for a 10mm cabochon.

[@jimbettridge3123]

Great system Jim!

[@mlinden20905]

Jim, Love the video and I have a question. What is the minimum size of hydraulic press that can do this set of pancake, impression dies? I see these smaller hydraulic presses, for instance a 8 ton that sells on Etsy. There are also smaller ones, 2 ton, 5 ton, but they don't seem to have enough pressure to do the impression dies and pancake dies according to the comments about the smaller presses.

[@JimBrandvik]

The pancake dies don't require as much pressure as the impression dies. If you are only concerned about using pancake dies, then an 8 ton will be fine. For impression dies, I would recommend 20 ton. Thanks for watching!

[@mlinden20905]

@@JimBrandvik I wish someone would come up with a 20 tom that isnt so expensive.

[@JimBrandvik]

@@mlinden20905 I did a quick search and found this one on Etsy No affiliation

[@JimBrandvik]

@@mlinden20905 KZbin won’t let me paste the link look on Etsy for a store called Artcraftsupply

[@mlinden20905]

@@JimBrandvik Thanks! From another Texan I love when you talk about the weather and that you can open the windows. Finally! Of course that stretch of nightmarish weather we had in Feb I would have liked to miss!

[@benjaminpastrana9662]

Wow! Great work💪🏼where to send to make my die design?

[@kathleenjames8173]

Thanks Jim for this demo! Your conchos are beautiful and I may just try making some myself. One thing I learned that I didn't know before about the pancake dies, was putting the stamped out piece back in and pressing again to get the tab off. That info was worth the price of admission! :-)

[@LionPunchForgeLPF]

I love the videos!! I am a self taught Jeweler and metalsmith and enjoy seeing what everyone else is doing! i cant wait to use my 1 inch kit!

[@MelissaMuir]

This is a great system. Way to go.

[@aylalowman2845]

Hay there! I have a question about different metals vs different types of solder…..I’m trying to repurpose some rivets that I cut off n old belt and sanded flat. My plan was to solder flat Chicago screws onto the backs. The soft solder I have, with my solder gun, runs right off the concho AND the Chicago screw…even after I roughed them up some. So, I bought some flus and wire solder, and tried to lightly use my propane torch, and that solder wouldn’t stick either, PLUS it melted part of my concho! I’ve been digging and can’t find a solution to this issue. I would greatly appreciate any advice you may have!!!

[@larrybeaver9869]

yes sir i do a little leather work and i to love concho's and i wanted to know if you have the means of making the shane concho's and maybe the shane buckle which is much like a concho

[@blakedunaway5513]

Hello could I somehow make this into a ring and earrings? Would like to do that

[@arieailes]

So beautiful and interesting 💙

[@lorrainegeorge4089]

Great tools! I look forward to ordering one!

[@annh3599]

Those are gorgeous! Love the system!

[@annas7399]

Thank you Jim, you're great

[@raviramroop5820]

I quite enjoyed this

[@stacyjens8256]

This is art. I love it. If I could do it as a job, I would! Thank you so much for sharing. 🤜🏼✝️🤛🏼

[@lorikarns3085]

Are the Chicago screws brass or brass plated? Did you use hard silver solder to solder them on the conches? The image of the screws looked like there was a knob shape on the end of the screw.? Thank you for doing this video!

[@danalicking1412]

Jim, what kind of fastener would you use for a concho for a hat on the band? Chicago screw would be too bulky I think. Would appreciate your thoughts.

[@XenaTheQuadCamBikah]

Dana Licking I know your comment is old but I’m trying with no luck to find silver conchos to put on a new horsehair hatband. Tons of conchos out there but none have a backing system that will work to adhere them to this hatband.

[@flyingcheff]

I love them both but I especially love the Aloha Maui sunshine concho! (hee hee hee!). Dang, how to do it without a press.........

[@JimBrandvik]

Hey Gabby! Good to hear from you! Is there a maker's space somewhere on the island that would have a press you could use? How about a shop press at the FBO's shop?

[@cuptonmillerlpnful]

Will be my next purchase. Where could I find a handle like the one you use to pump your press up and down with? Love that :)

[@JimBrandvik]

Hi Carolyn! Thanks for watching! I made two versions of that handle to test. I'll be offering them soon in 2019.

[@tahomyjo]

Hi Jim , have a few questions before I order the 1.5” concho kit . Is my 12 ton press going to work with this? Also after you soldered the Chicago screw backing onto the conch you said to pickle it but how do you get way with doing that if the hardware is stainless steel? I thought anything steel would turn it copper?

[@JimBrandvik]

Hi and thanks for your message. I always recommend a 20 ton press. The forming dies don't require much pressure but getting a good impression with the impression dies can sometimes be a challenge. If I were you, I would just buy one of the concho impression dies first to see how well your 12 ton press does. If you decide to by the entire kit afterwards, just leave a message with your order and we will leave out the impression die you already own and refund the difference. Regarding problems with pickling, I don't have any issues, but I try to replace my pickling solution for fresh solution after about a week of work.

[@dottyp3113]

Thanks for the informative video. I've been wondering about how to make the back of the concho so it would go on leather. Any plans to make a system for smaller conchos? I have several impression dies from Potter USA that would make great conchos. I like your system, especially the doming jig.

[@JimBrandvik]

Yes! I am working on a 1inch version right now, It should be ready soon!

[@haroldmiller5716]

Where can I get a metal stamp with the eyelash design.

[@JimBrandvik]

Try this guy. www.etsy.com/listing/106052403/indian-sunrays-metal-design-stamp-metal?ga_search_query=sunray&ref=shop_items_search_3&pro=1&frs=1

[@haroldmiller5716]

Jim Brandvik I appreciate that information. Actually I thought that you weren’t going to answer my question so I started digging. I came up with the same stamp that is in your answer and purchased it. Sorry about being so impatient. Harold Miller

[@JimBrandvik]

Harold Miller Glad you found it! I don’t check KZbin every day for comments because I don’t get that many. The best way to reach me is through my Etsy store. Always happy to help!

[@jerrylindley7459]

How do I buy this , love it

[@JimBrandvik]

Thanks @jerrylindley7459 Here is the link to our store. brandviktools.etsy.com/listing/1335651047/15-inch-round-concho-pancake-die-set-of

[@jayj4142]

8:40 - Skips all the preliminary talking... 24:10 is where soldering the chicago screw begins...in case anyone else wants those time hacks...

[@ilovelucy311]

Jim do you file/tumble the rough outer edge at any time? Great video - very informative!!! Thanks so much!

[@JimBrandvik]

Hi Melissa, I usually sand the backs before attaching the Chicago screws. You can just lay sandpaper upside on a flat surface and rub the conchos over it to remove any burs, then the buffing wheel can easily polish.

[@deeoneal1267]

what a gorgeous belt! Now, if you say the word, Concho 100 times it sounds weird;). thanks for all your tools! love them

[@tamaraadams9317]

I love your videos, Jim! I really like the concho making system you created! Did you also make your own stamps for the edges?

[@JimBrandvik]

Tamara Adams thank you! To answer your question.. No, I did not. Check out @OregonTrailSilver for really nice stamps.

[@miladkarimi7610]

Very good job

[@sueannwilliams4931]

New to Silversmithing and addicted. Would belt, bridle and halter buckles be a possibility? Also I've been on the fence in regards to buying a clicker press for batching up leather tack, do you think that type of press would also work with this system? Love this set and can't wait to buy some tools from you!

[@JimBrandvik]

SueAnn Williams Thanks for watching! Yes, I have lots of additional tools in the works so stay tuned! Regarding your question about a clicker type leather press; no, it would not be suitable for metal forming. ☹️

[@Automedon2]

Jim, do you sell conchos you've made? I'd love to have a half dozen or so.

[@jerryevans8083]

Searching & searching to find urethane slabs for the compression process. Ideas? Thanks

[@JimBrandvik]

Jerry Evans glad to see that your search is over! ;-)

[@leonardodelgado3830]

Is any of your conchos for sale

[@saveursfe]

R.I.P. Max Anderson , sad to hear the news, I thought I saw one of his pieces in one of your videos 👍 max and I had the same rep in the early 90’s and got me started making nickel conchos also lol he was good people , cool concho dies and videos I’m thinking of getting back into smithing again but it’s been 20 years , yikes! lol✌️

[@artsoulfull]

Hello. I don’t have a press and I was wondering if you think I could use something else with your concho system? Maybe a c-clamp or screw press? Thank you.

[@JimBrandvik]

artsoulfull you can use anything that is capable of applying 10-20 tons of force. But a hydraulic press is the most economical way of doing that.

[@lizaker8408]

Loved the video, what gauge nickel silver did you use?

[@JimBrandvik]

Liz Aker I think it was 20 gauge but I also use 18

[@lizaker8408]

@@JimBrandvik Thank You !!!

[@Robindalmiras]

Amazing work! Thank you

[@JimBrandvik]

Thanks for watching!

[@scottcarman3090]

How long does the pancake die last

[@JimBrandvik]

@@scottcarman3090 I have pancake dies that I’ve used for several years. With proper use you can get several hundred uses. The main thing that kills them is when people continue to pump the press handle after the piece has “popped “. That traps the metal tab and can deform the pancake die in that spot.

[@dbaysinger2]

How many ton is your press?

[@JimBrandvik]

@@dbaysinger2 20 ton

[@alisonelwell4912]

Hi Jim, what kind of flux and solder are you using? I'd like to put some new backs on my sterling overlay conchos, like you did here.

[@JimBrandvik]

Alison Elwell Hi, watch from 24:20 in the video where I explain that. Spelling for the flux is “Cuprinol”

[@alisonelwell4912]

@@JimBrandvik Thank you for the spelling! Is the solder just called "hard solder"? I'm a total novice here, but am half-handy other than always taking my conchos to jewelers and waiting in line weeks to have posts mounted... I am finding there are less and less willing to take them, though!

[@JimBrandvik]

This is what I use 90% of the time. www.riogrande.com/product/Silver-Wire-Solder-22-Ga-Hard/101711

[@Tonia.lynn2411]

Where do you get your metal?

[@JimBrandvik]

Rio Grande.com usually

[@julieteeples5336]

Can you stamp first before you dome the concho? BTW, this is an awesome system you've developed. Unfortunately I don't have a shop press/jewelry press to give it a try. Thanks so much for such a great video.

[@JimBrandvik]

Julie Teeples it’s best to stamp after doming because the act of stamping can stretch the diameter of the blank so that it is too big to fit into the cavity of the forming die.

[@deborahlong4417]

Hi. Sorry to bother you again. I'd like to ask about hydraulic presses that can be used with your Conchos system. I am a hobbyist. Sell a little jewelry, but mostly make it for myself and friends and charity silent auctions. So a Really expensive press is not feasible. I think the Potters are out of my realm. I do see some presses for sale on Ebay (eg. There's a 20 ton Stark floor model for a couple hundred bucks right now down from $650. Could be junk or a pain to use...). There are some table models too. And there is a U-Tube site for a DIY hydraulic press with a 2 ton hydraulic . I guess Harbor Freight has a jewelry press too which I haven't found yet. Anyway. How many tons are required for a press to use with your system? Realizing that the more expensive, and well made the press, the better it will be in the long run. But is there something that can be used until I can either justify the expense of something like a Potter and /or decide if this is something I want to pursue more seriously. Thank you again.

[@JimBrandvik]

Hi Deborah, No bother at all! I will try to answer all of you questions. First and most important is the tonnage. Pancake dies will cut sheet with much less force. My concho forming dies require very little pressure to form the metal, but impression dies need a lot of pressure. Many of the impression dies I make and Kevin Potter sells will require up to 20 tons of force to get a good crisp impression. So yes, you will definitely want a 20 ton press. A manual press is just fine. Don't worry about electric powered cylinders. I would steer you away from a floor standing "H-frame" shop press. An H-frame press like the ones sold on eBay will work, but by their design, they are wobbly and not a lot of fun to use. They are intended as jewelry presses. But again, they will work if that's you only option. I did a bit of Googling and found this press.. www.magnatronics.us/products/jewelry_press This simple design has been around for a long time and would work just fine. It is less than half the price of Kevin 20 ton press. I have no experience with this company, so understand that I am not endorsing the company, just the press design. In my opinion, you would be much happier with this type than with a follow standing h-frame shop press. Thanks for watching! Jim

[@deborahlong4417]

@@JimBrandvik Thank you for your message. I am going to look into the press you referenced. The 20 ton one is $290. Jumps way up.to $510 for 30 ton, so if 20 will do the job, 20 it is. So thank you again. I will plan on getting your Conchos system first, then the press. First have to see how much my tractor is gonna cost to repair this month. But by June! Thanks again.

[@bobbiehousand5166]

What pound hammer are you using to stamp please?

[@JimBrandvik]

Bobbie Housand it’s a 2 lb hammer. Thanks for watching!

[@timthompsondp]

Where do you get your stamps that you used for the border?

[@JimBrandvik]

Timothy Thompson check out OregonTrailsSilver.com and also check out K2Stamps at etsy.me/2bVA31x

[@TheRasta815]

Do you make custom dies ?

[@JimBrandvik]

No, because they take so long to for me to make (days) not many folks can pay for that much time. I've found that the only way to make it marginally profitable is to sell impressions of my original hobs.

[@TheRasta815]

@@JimBrandvik Understand thanks for responding.

[@clarencesmith130]

Awesome

[@4672-m9f]

You're quick

[@luisyvital]

After the first year make an oval concho kit ;) couple years security haha

[@JimBrandvik]

luis vital, it’s already in the works!

[@navajodoll6320]

Thank you!

[@edwardjeremias2017]

Hello sir. Hope all is well. Do you by chance have a Facebook?

[@JimBrandvik]

No, sorry. I'm not active on FB but I am on Instagram instagram.com/jimbrandvik/

[@verdabehner8963]

That really is quite a system but not feasible money wise at least for me

[@JimBrandvik]

We now have a Starter Concho Kit in our store! Thanks Jim

[@rickdavis2235]

Retired machinist?

[@JimBrandvik]

Not retired. I do this stuff for a living. I'm just a hobby machinist as best. Thanks for watching.

[@rickdavis2235]

@@JimBrandvik Are you making our own dies? I was a tool & die guy for 35 years.

[@JimBrandvik]

Rick, I have been an engraver for the bulk of my artistic career. Then I started carving negative impression dies in mild steel (for my own jewelry). I did 2.5D negatives (female dies) for a couple years before I transitioned to carving male hubs in tool steel as masters. That was better for more 3 dimensional work. I eventually started selling impressions of my hubs. So that was a long way of saying yes, I make my own dies.

[@FGQuinto]

Jim!. ther is a serious lack of fishing concho's out there and the good ones are bass. the trout and salmon conchos are lacking. if you make a killer trout or salmon concho you will have a money maker for resale. just saying.

[@miladkarimi7610]

Please translate persian

[@albertledesma5173]

Love your channel and your content is great, but man, 5 pressings with annealing in between?! With all due respect sir, it’s time to upgrade to a Bonny Doon press.

[@JimBrandvik]

Hey Albert, Honestly, it was probably just because I was taping. Things never go right when the camera is on! :-) Thanks for watching!