Making a Celtic knot silver chain necklace (with favourite pliers)

[@Nickscreativestuff]

I thoroughly enjoy chain making, I find it very satisfying … if you would like to see more of my silver chain making videos here’s a playlist you can watch kzbin.info/aero/PLYHMxIHcYj0aPFwHAV7p4pkxeraaY6hGZ … cheers … Nick

[@CelticDruidess1]

thank you! I'm most definitely going to take a looksee

[@carenbarnet378]

Thanks Nick. I haven't ever made chain. This looks intriguing and satisfying , and i will make one once i have finished my other projects that are waiting for elements so they can be completed.

[@pattyrdh1987]

This is the most beautiful chain I have ever seen! How many total hours to make? Do you sell your creations? Thanks for sharing ⭐️

[@loloysgoldsmith7803]

❤

[@Nickscreativestuff]

sorry Patty, comments are surfacing that I’ve not replied to. I could probably make one of these chains if I really went for it in a day. I don’t sell stuff, just make it for pleasure … cheers … Nick

[@elainelily9910]

Forget the chain. You’re a genius. Now I can make perfect teardrop earring shapes!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks Elaine, surprising what can be made with cheap circlip pliers … have fun … Nick

[@dulciemidwinter1925]

I never realised how involved and time consuming making this type of jewellery can be. I have neither the skill or the patience to do so but I am full of admiration for anyone that does. The bracelet is beautiful!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Hi Dulcie … jewellery making can be a bit all consuming, the skills needed for this sort of thing are easily learnt however patience certainly is a virtue when it comes to chain making … cheers … Nick

[@IWH777]

SOME PEOPLE THAT DO VIDEOS ARE MINDLESS CHATTER BOXES AN ITS HARD TO FOCUS ON WHAT THEY ARE DOING... I WANT TO THANK YOU FOR YOUR VIDEOS THAT HAVE LITTLE OR NO CHATTER IN THEM... I CAN REALLY CONCENTRATE ON WHAT YOUR DOING AN LEARN FROM YOU EASILY THAT WAY.... TY TY TY

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Nice to hear that Frances, being rather camera shy I hate having to do voice overs so avoid it if I can … cheers … Nick

[@SebastienFortin07]

You forgot your cap lock on? 😆

[@IWH777]

@@SebastienFortin07 I HAVE SIGHT PROBLEMS AN CAN SEE BETTER THIS WAY...

[@WildBearFoot]

​@@IWH777YOU DO YOU, AND DON'T WORRY ABOUT THE REST.

[@k.kuzziah6384]

I would love to buy something like this,all the work that went into handmaking it is enough to make me wanna proudly wear it

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that K, I should make the effort to try and sell stuff … maybe one day when I have more time … all the best … Nick

[@AndysAccessories]

Recently started making jewelry and still looking for the “one” thing that really defines me. I watch a lot of how to videos to learn and I have to say I love watching you make the Celtic knot. I could never make my own chains (not that patient) but yours is beautiful. Thanks for sharing so newbies like me can see how it’s done.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

hi Shelley thanks for your lovely comment, suppose everybody is a newbie once. Over the years I’ve learnt a lot from the KZbin community, so it’s now nice to be able to give a bit back. Patience is a virtue when making chainmail. One thing I do have a lot of … probably learnt from my dad who encouraged us to join in with family 10,000 piece jigsaw puzzles when we were kids … all the best … Nick

[@gordo6202]

"WOW" That's all I can say. Thank you for sharing and give all the "sizes" to achieve this bracelet. 👌👌👌👌

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Gordo, i’ve learnt so much from KZbin videos … it’s now nice to have the ability to give a bit back … all the best … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

❤️❤️🙏❤️👍💓

[@paulhamilton5634]

Fantastic. The time alone from the creativity is what makes it special. I used to make rings and most people didn't understand the time that went into projects like this.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks Paul you’re so right with that, being a hobbyist I really enjoy making stuff like this and do it for the pure pleasure. I don’t think I could make something like this 10 times faster so it could be sold for a realistic price … maybe more practice needed … cheers … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

👍💓👍❤️🙏

[@saltynama]

Makers of things do understand the time to just learn the craft and the execution of finished pieces.

[@husher5142]

anything these days. Most recently couple people were like !!!~ $10 for a tshirt so expensive - it used to be $5, or $4 for a head of lettuce. No concept of what it takes to grow a head of lettuce let alone how weave linen on a loom.

[@eaglestudios4146]

Difference between Art and Craft....Thank you Nick! Maybe perhaps the younger generation will learn that all great things come from knowledge, skill and experience.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for that Eagle Studios, I thoroughly enjoy the subject of arts and crafts. It allows me to liberally explore and play with creative processes for many projects, ideas and directions … N

[@MammaBird87]

I have to say this.... truly hand crafted jewelry instead of machine made and casted, is much more beautiful, and I would add, more valuable than what other "jewelers" create and sell in bulk. The jewelry may be pretty at the end, but the time, energy, and creativity you put into the jewelry you make is so much more beautiful. 👏🏼 I hope and pray that one day I'll be able to make jewelry like this as well. Metalworking is Awesome!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for your comment MamaBird, A lot of commercial jewellers don’t have the time to put the effort into making complex chains. They prefer to stick to simpler designs that are easy to mass produce maximising their profits. Being a hobbyist I have all the time in the world to explore ideas and immerse in the pleasures of metal smithing and creativity … good luck with your adventures into this fascinating past time … N

[@lindabooker3512]

I’ve never seen anything like this and throughly enjoyed it. So much patience and love for the craft. Worth it!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Linda, this sort of design arises from hours of fun fiddling and twiddling with ideas in my creative space … Worth it … cheers … Nick

[@valeriejewell5136]

Took me awhile to figure it out. I changed the size to 18 gauge so it was easier, then after I made a few links I switched back to the 16 gauge. I love your tutorials and the fact you show the size for the wire and mandrel. Thanks so much

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for your comment Valerie, I test and practice a lot with copper first to find sizes and dimensions that I’m happy with before tentatively committing to silver. i’ve learnt so much from KZbin videos it’s now nice to be able to give a bit back … cheers … Nick

[@emmacarroll3665]

Did you use half hard or dead soft wire?

[@lowbornCO]

@@emmacarroll3665dead soft. I had the same question 👍🏼

[@williamkaye8710]

Really lovely in its simplicity of style and construction.Many thanks for sharing

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks William, surprisingly simple chain to make once you figured out the sizes of the links … cheers … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

👍❤️🙏🙏

[@jonasdowner]

the visual exposition is so totally on-point. every action in every shot communicates something. even when you're annealing, you repeatedly show examples of what the silver looks like at the proper heat. straight up, i will be able to make this from memory when i get around to it.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for your comments Jonas, nice to hear you enjoyed my vid. This has been the most popular of all of them, just need to figure out how to repeat it. Good luck with your attempt at this chain, repetitive annealing is key for it to work … N

[@puggychu]

Wow...a master chainmail maker! Every step is precise & end product perfection.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for that Christine, it is said practice makes perfect, and I certainly did plenty of that before making this video … N

[@jackofnone599]

I appreciate that you enjoy these pliers so much, that you had to announce it in the title. I have similar loving relationships with some of my tools 😂👍

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for your comment Jack, it’s easy to have a loving relationships with tools … I hope they don’t get jealous of one another … N

[@jostvig01]

@@Nickscreativestuff where do you get your pliers

[@TariHuffaker]

What a beautiful piece of art! Thank you for showing us your process. You are very patient.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for your comment Tari, patience is a virtue when chain making… all the best … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

🙏👍👍👍❤️

[@angelika1586]

You are terrific, thank you we need more folks like you in this world!!!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for your lovely comment Angelina, i’ve taken so much from KZbin over the years it’s now nice to be able to give a bit back … cheers … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

🙏🙏👍❤️

[@TheLawlessLady]

Wow... I've been doing chainmail for years, but this is a whole different level. Amazing work. Congratulations. Well done!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for that Lawlesslady, surprising what can materialise when you have plenty of time to play around with ideas in a creative space. I tend to fiddle and doodle a lot with copper wire to come up with new designs … cheers … Nick

[@mellowenglishgal]

It’s so pretty! Definitely daintier than the first - shows the progression of your skill!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that mellowenglishgal, the dainty stuff is definitely more of a challenge … cheers … Nick

[@litoguerrero4115]

Excelent , greetings from Lima Perú 🇵🇪 Bless you friend!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Lito all the way out there in Peru … N

[@tech4ever1]

Wow! This is gorgeous and you did a fantastic job documenting your process! Thanks for sharing! I am blown away at all the steps and how did you even figure our how to make that work? If I were to spend alot on jewelry, it would be on this! How sturdy and lovely!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for your comment Tech4ever, filming is the hardest part of the process my phone camera seems to get in the way of working all the time. lots of hours spent tinkering and fiddling with ideas using copper wire first give me the confidence to try this sort of thing in silver … all the best … Nick

[@anpervik]

@@Nickscreativestuff , здравствуйте! Очень понравилось ваша уникальная работа ! Подскажите пожалуйста данные цепи, какой метал , пробу ,диаметр проволоки, общий вес и длину цепи. Хочу сделать браслет на запястье из золота 585° и необходимо уложится в 8 грам золота 585° Скажите данные для дальнейшего пересчёта в золото 585°

[@Nickscreativestuff]

sorry comments are servicing that I’ve not replied to. this chain ended up weighing 30g and is 19inches long i’m sure it would look very nice and gold cheers Nick

[@barry7608]

Another great demo thanks, I'm going to have a go at this one in copper first then silver for my 4 granddaughters.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

cheers Barry, I always practice and test a lot with copper first before committing to using my precious silver. The key to this one is lots of annealing … you’ll have your work cut out keeping 4 granddaughters happy … N

[@stay_curious]

Beautifully made! I'm nowhere near that, I'm still cold forging, but it was mesmerising watching your process

[@Nickscreativestuff]

hi Helan thanks for that, I was going to do a cold forged link chain but went for this one instead. there was a lot of processes to make this and I had to cut a lot out to try and keep the video short … all the best … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

🙏🙏❤️👍

[@Jaz-R83]

I didn’t realise you could tumble polish silver like that. This a very useful video thank you!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

hi Jasmine, yes it’s a very easy way to polish stuff just throw it in and wait. The only problem being it can take a long time, minimum 4 hours. cheers … Nick

[@Jaz-R83]

@@Nickscreativestuff I don’t mind the wait or the noise (I’m deaf lol) thanks for the info though. The finish is amazing! I need to try this! 😊

[@Nickscreativestuff]

there is a few different mediums that can be used for polishing, I use a very small stainless steel shot, it’s great for getting into all the nooks and crannies of a fine chain. … N

[@Jaz-R83]

@@Nickscreativestuff how would it fair for working with fine silver 99.99? Do you know? I love all things silver, working with different gauge wires etc eventually I want to get into casting rings, pendants and clasps etc. I too use a knitting needle for making links!! I love creating things. Looks like you have a real flare for it! I found how many times you stretched and annealed particularly interesting. Thank you for taking the time to answer me.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

hi Jasmine, A tumble polisher works well for sterling silver, fine silver, golds, bronze, brass and copper although never to mix them in one tumble. The other thing not not to mix is heavy items with delicate items. Otherwise you can get a lot done in one go. i’ve not done much with fine silver but I find sterling work hardens very quickly and needs constant annealing. I to have true love for creativity and couldn’t imagine life without it … all the best … Nick

[@neenahjay5712]

I watched your video 3 Times! You’re so fascinating with your metal works. Thank you so much for sharing your craft!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks views Neenah, this is my best ever video with nearly half a million views now. never know what’s gonna do well until it gets going … N

[@aprilcrisafulli3898]

That's beautiful! Thanks for sharing!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for watching! … N

[@kooosamonkey]

Hooooolllllyyyyyy shitttt!! Wow! Just... wow!! And here i am just looking into how to put an end cap onto a snake chain!😂 You're amazing! Well done!!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that koosamonkey, good luck with capping your snake chain … cheers … Nick

[@anjairis]

Very nice and pretty. Also I like that there's not any music, it's just quiet and work sounds.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for that Anjairis, I don’t find it easy getting quality work sounds especially when half of it is filmed on the dinner table with household clatter going on all around. Music seems to be the easy option most of the time … N

[@sherricosta3550]

GORGEOUS!! Your techniques are super impressive to watch! I wish I knew someone who had all the tools and gadgets you do to attempt my own bracelets and necklaces!! You make it look easy ( and I know it's not) thanks for sharing your skills🤩

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for your comment Sherri, being a bit of a tool freak I’ve collected a lot of them over the years. I suppose practice makes perfect and an edited video makes it look quick and easy … all the best … Nick 👍😎👍

[@livvyweimar7362]

I am starting with pre-made settings. This is so far beyond my ability but I subscribed to try to get better. Thanks for being there for us learning!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for your comment and sub Livvy, I started silversmithing late in life but it’s never too late to learn something new. KZbin has been a great teacher for me so it’s now nice to be able to give a bit back … cheers … Nick

[@christaengelhardt1625]

I've been wanting to dig in to making different chainmail link bracelets so thank you for this.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for the comment Christa, I never learnt how to knit wool but I find weaving chainmail very relaxing and meditative … cheers … Nick

[@libbyhenderson7567]

I LOVE your videography! And of course your talent! It's so generous of you to share your knowledge, can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate it! 💜

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for your appreciation Libby, it surprises me what can be done with an iPhone sometimes … cheers … Nick

[@gorillajoe999]

Beautiful knots, that's a sweet bracelet. This was a lot of fun to watch.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks Joe, good to hear it’s fun to watch. I struggle to insert humour into my videos … N

[@caneladelcaribe819]

very good ideas, and nice way to cut the jump rings!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Canela, life’s so much easier after working out this technique … cheers … Nick

[@rycoryco2888]

Absolutely brilliant!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks Ryco … N

[@lovepeace9308]

One of the things that I would most like to learn is welding and all kinds of welding and everything that goes with it.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

hi love and peace, definitely have a go welding is very satisfying available at evening classes or even friendly welders who can show you and let you have a try … cheers … Nick

[@AFarmerCalledChicken]

I’ll have to try this for my shop sometime. I’m sure this would make my resin pendants look that much cooler!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that chicken farmer, this would make a great chain for a chunky pendant … cheers … Nick

[@kippertoo]

This is lovely! Thanks for posting your process, now I have to dig out my supplies and start making jewelry again.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for your comment kippertoo, nice to hear it makes you want to get back to it … have fun … Nick

[@saltynama]

I make hand made necklaces and this give me an idea about chains. I have never worked with metal before.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for the comment redheadweirdo, definitely have a go with metal … copper is a great place to start … soft to work, cheap, easy to source and similar to working with silver … good luck … Nick

[@saltynama]

@@Nickscreativestuff thank you. I'm trying to find those reverse open pliers you use. Did you make those metal sleeves as well?

[@Nickscreativestuff]

they’re called circlip pliers, I make my own sleeves out of all sorts of bits and bobs that can be upcycled … cheers … Nick

[@saracole7623]

This clearly took you a lot of work and the result paid off! Very nice!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Sarah … most of the work is off camera testing, trying and practising with copper first before having the confidence to commit to silver … cheers … Nick

[@saracole7623]

@@Nickscreativestuff Being someone who casually makes jewelry myself, this makes a lot of sense. With silver being approximately 21 times as expensive as the same volume of copper (surprisingly, about the same between fine silver and sterling silver), I do not blame you for reaching for the copper first. I got my numbers from the prices on Rio Grande, by the way. Good wire, solid prices.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Hi Sara, i once paid £8 a kilo for copper at my local scrapyard whereas silver is £800 a kilo over here. i’ve never had a chance to play with gold and it being £65000 a Kilo I don’t think it will be happening any time soon. shame we don’t have a Rio Grande here in the UK, Cooksongold could do with having a decent competitor … N

[@angelchat69]

Wow. You popped up in me suggested videos and I'm hooked. So shiny. I love the design. Thank you.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Fiona, if you’re a patient a barrel tumbler does a great job of polishing … N

[@angelchat69]

@@Nickscreativestuff way back when, my dad used to tumble semi precious stones. I always find the low rumble quite relaxing. X

[@Nickscreativestuff]

A very in hobby during the 70s I think. cross contamination with grit can be a problem if also polishing jewellery … cheers … Nick

[@spicybeantofu]

I enjoyed watching you make the little parts.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks spicybean, lots of variations on a theme connecting these little parts … cheers … Nick

[@roxannecoyne2744]

Fascinating!!! I had no idea what it took to make something like this. Now I understand why the price points are what they are. ❤

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for that Roxanne, a lot of work can go into bespoke chains one of the reasons they are expensive. Some delicate chains can have very little weight of silver however the time and effort that can go into one can be immense … cheers … Nick.

[@MrYukon2010]

Simply beautiful!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Rob, I find this to be a nice blokey chain to wear … cheers … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

👍❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏👍👍👍

[@stlounsbury]

That is stunning! Thank you for the detailed tutorial.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Susan, its nice to be able to share stuff … N

[@Kera.S.]

Whew, and I thought chainmaille took me a while to do. Dedicated to the art for sure and it shows. Beautiful work! 💙

[@Nickscreativestuff]

hi Kera thanks for that, definitely do love making chains … what some people would find monotonous I find very relaxing. Doing it for the love of it definitely works … not so sure if it was for money … cheers … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

🙏👍❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@pravinmahimkar6686]

Your videos are amazing. You show all the tricks with tools mm sizes of wire and rod used. ❤❤

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks Pravin, i’ve learnt so much from KZbin myself so it’s now nice to be able to give a bit back … N

[@Sanjay-eb6fe]

Beautiful piece of work !

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Sanjay … N

[@galeem713]

Loved watching it but will never do it. Incredible artistry.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Gale, glad it’s enjoyable to watch … N

[@josephgraham319]

Excellent work, never thought to stretch the knots like that. I usually make simple single link chains, this gives me new ideas. Thanks.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Joseph, The trick to this is constant annealing and not to worry if you break a few … cheers … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

❤️❤️🙏👍👍

[@warrior4christ777]

Smart thinking on your tool modifications

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks Warrior 4Christ, one of my go to tools … very useful for all sorts of projects … N

[@aleli5105]

Absolutely fantastic! Such a beautiful craftsmanship. Patience and dedication.🙏

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Mamita, patience is a virtue when chain making …. cheers … Nick

[@codyjarvis3426]

I do alot of arts crafts, leather, paint , carving anything really . But this I dont have the patience. I actually was falling asleep ..was comfortable to watch . Takes way to long to see progress... good job man ....

[@Nickscreativestuff]

hi Cody thanks for your comment, I do love the repetition and monotony of chain making … not sure if I could cope with a whole suit of chainmail … N

[@mjremy2605]

Your tools are beautiful! Love those industrial looking pliers! fyi - make text smaller so we can see the screen better. It's hiding some tools. 0:57 - How clever!!! I love the way your mind works, ha ha ha! I think your DNA has genius genes. Q: Do you have to cool down silver after soldering, in cool water? Can you skip this step for silver? So much work on the links, wow! I'll never complain about high prices again. 100% worth it. You are buying an artist's work. Thank you so much for this lovely video!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks MJ, my favourite pliers being cheap and from the car mechanics industry instead of the posh jewellers. thanks for the tip about font size i’ll check that out and try and improve my ways. This chain is only possible with a lot of annealing. Quenching in water is part of that process but not necessary after soldering. I think my video made it look a bit long winded when really it’s a relatively quick chain to make with a bit of practice and batch processing the steps … all the best … Nick

[@YoungBeWorld]

So soothing and relaxing to watch

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Nice to hear that Young Be World, thanks for your comment … N

[@debracisneroshhp2827]

Absolutely beautiful__great craftsmanship! Thank you for sharing your artistry. 💖🙌😺

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Debra, I was amazed how well this video got seen … N

[@pseudogamer6685]

i never thought of using oil, brilliant idea

[@Nickscreativestuff]

I was surprised how much it helps when the knot starts to get tight … N

[@connierule31]

Beautiful if you use plant based pickel can u dump it in the sink when you are done

[@Nickscreativestuff]

sorry but I’m not sure about that Connie, you may have to check with your local council or authority … Nick

[@filipwartacz5609]

Great chain design, beautifully made !

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks Filip, The result from lots of playing around with copper wire … cheers … Nick

[@fallensway855]

Holy crap, I love it! You have some extremely valuable ideas. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Fallen, ideas to have value i’ve just started earning a little from someone of my videos … exciting to start having a small digital income … cheers … Nick

[@CassandraSusan]

That is a lovely chain! Now I gotta try it! 😢

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Cassandra, I practice a lot with copper first and plenty of annealing needed with this one … N

[@tammiehonican76]

You never disappoint Nick! You always amaze me! Beautiful!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Tammie, Time was running over with this one so I edited out the disappointing bits when i was breaking links … cheers … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

❤️❤️❤️🙏🙏👍👍

[@deborahward1438]

I just love this. Where do you get (or make) the metal sleeve for the circlip pliers at 4:18 please?

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks Deborah, I made that bit of tube. Long time ago now, can’t even remember the size of it. it comes about with trial and error using copper wire first. You could drill a hole through a piece of large woodwork nail, the hole doesn’t need to be dead centre … N

[@annnoyez]

So beautiful. But it's that soldering... 😂... I will begin for a tutorial... The tumbler is also from Cooksongold? I thought I saw this one on their site.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

I get most of my jewellery tools and supplies from Cooksongold. you should try soldering paste it’s a little bit expensive but you use tiny tiny amounts … perfect for jump rings … your joints needs to be clean and tight fitting it won’t fill or cross gaps. after a bit of practice it’s very quick and easy to use … N

[@kathyberger6650]

What a gorgeous piece of work!! Incredible!!!! So talented and patient! ❤️

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Kathy, it is said that “patience is a virtue” and “trees that grow slow bear the best fruit” … all true when chain making …. cheers … Nick

[@CelticDruidess1]

I've always wanted to try this out and after watching your video - moreso now. Thank you for posting this. 🥰

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Celtic Druidess, I learn a lot from trial and error. cheers. Nick

[@rachnailedit]

WOW 🤩 that’s stunning 😍 and a lot of work. I didn’t realise silver wire was such a pain to work with 😆

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Rachael, after working with silver for a while you get used to it’s constant need for annealing … cheers … Nick

[@glshowlin]

Stunning!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks Gail … N

[@lovein-jeweler]

Wow 😳 That's amazing way to makes chain, perfect tools

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Kajenoghrei, this is a fabulous tool for jewelry makers also cheap because it’s not sold for there industry … cheers … Nick

[@amberm2777]

Beautiful work

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Amber, a pure pleasure to make … N

[@johnkidd797]

Hi Nick, just a little update as I've been making a fair bit of chain now, researching this one as I'm planning two today. my thumbs and fore fingers have some amount of hard skin on them. Very similar to how they go hard with playing guitar. Loving making jewellery and loving the channel pal.👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that John, Jewellery making can be quite demanding on hands mine tire quickly these days. chain making can be very addictive, end up getting through a lot of wire. I now save money by making my own from sterling silver casting grain. Bing hobbyist I’m always looking to economise somehow … cheers … Nick

[@johnkidd797]

@@Nickscreativestuff I find making the wire very satisfying. I smelt Sterling and 9999 fine and the sterling is way harder to work and I find it needs a lot more annealing. I bought a Smith little torch and that is so much better for smelting than mapp gas. I bought a Durston c165 as I knew I would get my money's worth out of it eventually. It's an expensive hobby to get into but all worth it I think, it's not the kind of work you can do with a claw hammer and a screwdriver. I'm just knocking up the links for these two right now. There's snow on the ground but the sun is blazing through the sun room window. Living in a house on its own in the Scottish Highlands up a hill and looking over the Murray Firth is not too bad an office. Keep up the good work pal 👍

[@Nickscreativestuff]

I know what you mean about making wire a very gratifying process. Bit of a game changer having an oxygen and propane torch somewhat frustrating without. Nice to have a Durston has been on my wish list for many years. Nothing like a comfortable workspace with gorgeous views of nature to inspire … happy days … N

[@johnkidd797]

@@Nickscreativestuff Good on ya mate, till you do it you'll never know the joy. I came into this after a near death accident whilst working offshore in Denmark. I was building the biggest wind turbines in the world and was very severely crushed and almost lost a leg. After some time in hospital and a lot of healing I had to find something to do, I went from working in hundreds of tonnes of metal to mere kilos. I was a welder in the 90's doing mig,tig,stick, it's all the same apart from materials and melting points. 3 months and I'm producing stuff that people are stunned by, they don't realise it's a 35 year progression of working with metal. Trial and error, I melted two 18k jump rings I was soldering to go round a 2mm sterling bangle. A fidget bangle, my first commission from my mates wife when she saw my wife's one. The other 5 were fine. Still getting used to the heat from that no4 head with a 1/4 inch flame. I don't know where you live Nick but if you're ever up my way I'd be glad to host you to do some work together and talk about jewellery and other random stuff too..👍

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Wow a scary demanding job. Nothing like a near death experience to encourage us to enjoy every moment and live life to the full. I had one in my first career as a tree surgeon made me change direction and only ever do what I truly love in life. I went on to be a metal worker and welder working for a friend in his artisan workshop. I now have my own mig, tig, plasma cutter and lathe to play with at home. I’ve not had the confidence to work with gold yet … would love to go abroad maybe one day and find some to play with … can’t bring myself to buy it the way I drop and lose stuff. Know what you mean about getting used to a Smiths Little Torch i blew a large hole through the side of a piece of 6mm silver tube completely ruining the project in my early days using it. Appreciate the idea of a visit, not possible at the moment with home commitments here in Bristol although thanks for the offer. Happy wholesome creating to you … all the best … Nick

[@annettejamieson4489]

Thanks Nick. I can’t wait to try this!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

hi Annetta, it’s a very forgiving chain to make as long as you remember to be constantly annealing, and not to be too disheartened if you break a few links … good luck with it … Nick

[@nicholerae9616]

Beautiful chain!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks Nichole … N

[@David-xg3sq]

I've been thinking about trying to make this chain but I had a few questions about some of the tools used. What is the measurement of the cylinder piece you put over the plyers at 4:14?

[@Nickscreativestuff]

hi David, The small tube that I made that I put over the tip of the external circlip pliers is 4.6 mm cheers … Nick

[@David-xg3sq]

@@Nickscreativestuff thanks man. I was on the verge of giving up on making chains, then I found your videos. Keep up the amazing work.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks David, I do love chain making … very satisfying to try and come up with something new and a bit different … N

[@David-xg3sq]

@@Nickscreativestuff sorry to keep asking questions but do you know the overall length of wire used? I noticed the first bit of wire used was 2ft but I'm sure that couldn't be the total length used. Lol

[@Nickscreativestuff]

sometimes I work backwards by using Cooksongold automated calculators. they’re off-line at the moment but what I do is go to their website and search for 1.3 mm round sterling silver wire, I know the chain weighed about 32 g when it was finished so I keep adding length to the calculator until it reaches the 32g. without being able to check I would guess it would come out to be about 2.5m … sorry to be vague hope this helps … N

[@angelamaderov]

It is so so beautiful!!!! I would like to do things as you do. Thank you so much. I am from Guadalajara Mexico

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Angela, good luck with your creativity all the way out there in Mexico… 🇲🇽 … N

[@Makermook]

That is a very cool design! I try to put the solder joint on the side of oval rings instead of at the bend; I seem to break fewer links that way.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that mark, The reason for me putting the joint at the end of the link is it helps hide any of my scruffy joints once the chains assembled … cheers … Nick

[@jewellerydesignerartists9353]

🙏🙏👍👍

[@Jacob-kq6wb]

Thanks you for your GREAT ART . THIS VIDEO BLOWING MY MIND !! ONE MORE TIME THANKS.👋👏💡

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Nice one Jacob thanks for your comment … N 👍😎👍

[@1515walker]

An absolute craftsmen ! That is a stunning piece. Thanks for sharing.😊

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for that Grant, I do love arts and crafts and it’s a pleasure to be able to share … Nick

[@marykirtley3474]

That is a handsome chain, well done.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks Mary, this is my attempt at making a blokey chain … cheers … Nick

[@lorihogue5015]

"Favorite pliers" ... smiles and nods. I too have a favorite 😏

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Nice one Lori, I suppose they’re my favourite because they’re not sold in the jewellery trade so not expensive. they’ve crossed over from a vehicle mechanics tool box … cheers … Nick

[@lorihogue5015]

@@Nickscreativestuff I always have trouble finding tools that feel good in my hand and function well. It's a never ending quest 😏

[@Nickscreativestuff]

so many less outlets these days where you can try before you buy. so much more done over the Internet where you have to go on how it looks instead. 😵‍💫

[@lorihogue5015]

@@Nickscreativestuff I rarely have a good outcome with buying tools online.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

me too, I’m very reluctant i’m lucky to have a really good secondhand tool shop nearby … N

[@monti7771]

Really enjoy your work looking for a bracelet like that wow brother outstanding 👍👍👍👍

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Ricky, i’m amazed how well this video has done … to cash in on its popularity I thought of making a bracelet chain in the same style … another video on the to do list … cheers … Nick

[@xavierburton6068]

Bought some solder paste on amazon because it had good reviews. Every time I try to use it though, it burns weird and expands like one of the snake things we use on the fourth of July. Ended up ordering from cookson and hoping it works better, lol.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Hi Xavier, solder paste can be a bit fussy to use … your work needs to be clean with a tight joint, it needs to come up to temperature quickly and it’s easily overheated due to its built-in flux. because of this it’s only really suited to small items like jump rings ect. However once practised it’s a fabulous product allowing repetitive jobs like chain making to be quick easy and efficient to do. it’s very easy to use far too much on a joint so it’s worth practising on a few copper links to see how small amount is needed … when heated it does sort of bubble, burn and expand just before melting and converting to solder … good luck with it … Nick

[@judithalezones352]

Me encantan tus videos, gracias por compartir tus excelentes ideas, te felicito por tener esas manos maravillosas

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Nice to be able to share ideas … hands seem to always look dirty unfortunate consequence of filming so close up … cheers … Nick

[@puresas]

awesome work, you make it look easy. But the tutorial was easy to follow, I gotta try this ;)

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks Chris, for me the key to this working is lots of annealing. Good luck with it … N

[@faultyinterface]

I'm going to try my hand at this for my wife's Christmas gift this year, so I'll probably be asking a lot of questions in the coming days. Everything is still on the way, so I don't have too many at the moment. To start, why is the heating of the silver for annealing done on a charcoal block?

[@Nickscreativestuff]

i’m sure your wife would love this as a present. Constant annealing is the key for this to work with the amount of bending and reshaping that is needed. Attentiveness is necessary when annealing small links that have been previously soldered and using a black charcoal block helps me to see the colour change in the silver … good luck with it … Nick

[@faultyinterface]

@@Nickscreativestuff Thank you very much!

[@Rageagainstthe666]

WOW! I´m very impressed!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for that … N

[@reginapasqual5502]

@@Nickscreativestuff Do you think, this would also function with 1.5 mm wire?

[@Nickscreativestuff]

yes I’m sure it would. I tend to test and practice everything first with copper wire to make sure I have the right sizes and dimensions before move onto silver … good luck with it … Nick

[@Rageagainstthe666]

@@Nickscreativestuff Thank you! ♥

[@Nickscreativestuff]

👍😎👍 … N

[@ralphnewcomejr]

Nice work Nick,NOW drop forge a PENDANT that can SLIDE on your chain 🤘☢️🤘. Great work Bruv... Oh, just to let you know... Your work is MAD Genius!!! No-One who only LOOKS and never ATTEMPTS this kind of work has a CLUE how complicated it TRUELY is... Thank You.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Hi Ralph thanks for your comment and encouragement, I did go a bit mad attempting this … Nice suggestion, the view count has done so well with this vid i’ll have to try and do a part two … all the best … Nick

[@ricardocantaluppi650]

Amazing! Congratulations.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks Ricardo … N

[@aprendeconmigo1221]

Wow amazing work! This is a big step for me in my hand craft addiction. You have specialized tools to do it, and manage perfectly the chemicals and fire! I havent gotten that stage yet! My most precious tool is a dremmel 😍drill jajajaa. Maybe some day I could do it. I really admire your work in this video! Take care of your hands 👼🏻

[@Nickscreativestuff]

hi Mona thanks for your lovely comment, everyone learns in their own perfect way. i’m thinking of going back to jewellery school evening classes for the fun of it … Dremel have built a massive reputation with all their tools and accessories to play with … stay handy … all the best Nick

[@aprendeconmigo1221]

@@Nickscreativestuff in México, there arent such as those classes! We learn just through tutorials like yours 😉

[@Nickscreativestuff]

me too I’ve learnt an abundance from KZbin … it’s now nice to be able to give it a bit back … N

[@livbetter]

Ok seriously you are such a creative man. So knowledgeable and the care you take is extraordinary! Simply amazing work 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 wow 🤩

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that livintheworld, it’s hard to get across the pleasures of creativity. given half a chance I would spend my whole life in the workshop playing with ideas. I should really call it my playroom. much more of a challenge trying to learn to produce a video though … all the best …Nick

[@jameswilliams5207]

Absolutely beautiful 😮

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Nice one James, thanks for that … N

[@gdcleanfun]

Outstanding crafting!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that Debi … N

[@daykangemcutting8679]

beautiful as always,nice job🌹🌹🌹

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that DayKan … 👍😎👍 … N

[@brianspalding6707]

Amazing work

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks Brian … N

[@ЕлизаветаВелижанцева-ц3з]

Очень красиво, необычное изделие🎉

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Thanks for that Елизавета … N

[@Laila-rp6sb]

Can you use tumble polishing for something with gemstone or it would scratch it !

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Hi Laila, I wouldn’t put items with set gemstones in a tumble polisher there would be a risk of damage … N

[@powermagic55]

your absolutely amazing beautiful work

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks for that mslady … N

[@marzipanmouse]

that is gorgeous! and your instructions are so clear and easy to follow!

[@Nickscreativestuff]

thanks Jane … good to hear that, being voiceless I do wonder sometimes … cheers … Nick

[@Peggapoo]

I really like this chain. What ID ring did you start out with and what was the gauge? You do beautiful work. I love your attention to detail.

[@Nickscreativestuff]

Hi Margaret thanks for that, this chain was made with 1.3mm wire, the knotted links were made around a 6mm mandrill and connecting links around 3.5mm … cheers … Nick.