STERLING SILVER FORGING TECHNIQUES

Don't just leave sterling silver wires round, square or flatten them with a hammer!!! Learn the proper techniques of "Forging" sterling silver wires into interesting and dynamic shapes. Learn how to "Reverse Plain" sterling silver wires to add that 3-D look that will make Designer Craftsman Jewelry stand out from all the rest.

[@jeanniemarie2877]

The problem with being self taught is you don't get a lot of basics like this that you'd be taught in school. You learn to do things but not always the right way. This video is fantastic as it taught me some basics I simply missed. Thank you so much. Please keep the videos coming if you can!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Jeannie, I am super happy that my video has helped you. You are very welcome! Check out my channel and you will find other videos that will help your jewelry making become easier. My last video addresses that subject of "Silver Soldering Hidden subtle details" . I hope that will help you also. Keep watching and feel free to ask any questions! Greg Greenwood

[@jeanniemarie2877]

@@greggreenwood4628 I'll definitely check them out. Thanks again!

[@E-Kat]

Exactly that Jennie! I hope you're busy making silver jewellery . ☺️

[@aaronesaxton]

Some people have more than the gift of technique, they have the gift of how to teach properly. You are one such person.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello aaronesaxton, Thank you very much for your kind comments. It really made my day! Keep watching! Thanks again!! Greg Greenwood

[@SantisValiant]

You bring a calmness and genuine feeling that reminds my very much of Bob Ross.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank you for your kind comments. I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@dawncawthra3519]

Haha, wow thats really accurate! "Happy little reverse plain" 🥰

[@user-ws9tp9ys4d]

I don’t even make jewelry, but I could watch Greg all day. He’s so happy and excited about his work I’m reliving childhood fascination.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Daytona, Thank you for your very kind comments. I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@stefanpremdas2074]

Thank you for these videos, I began carving gems again after 30 yrs & have quite a few laying around. These tutorials have made it easier to enter the world of metalsmithing.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Stefan, I am very happy that I can help you enjoy metalsmithing. Keep watching. Greg Greenwood

[@elizabethcollins3944]

Hello Greg, I have been watching so many tutorials on soldering, I cannot quite get the right response to a few of my questions, until I found your videos. You are the only one that provide info, from the type of solder, flux and how to use them. You are exactly what beginners like me needed. I am newly retired and I find jewelry making so inspiring. I am so glad I found your site, I subscribed to your channel and has been watching your shows. Thank you for providing answers to all my questions. God Bless.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Elizabeth, Thank you for your kind comments. I am very happy to help you. If you have any questions in the future, please feel free to let me know. Enjoy and have Fun. Greg Greenwood

[@elisazulueta9535]

Thanks very informative video step by step for forging metal. Your expertise and knowledge is greatly appreciated.❤

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Elisa, You are very welcome. Thank you for your kind comments. Keep watching. Greg Greenwood

[@SantisValiant]

Thank you Master, for making this video. I am a novice blacksmith, and I'm learning more than just silver techniques here.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Glad you have enjoyed and learned from the video. I love blacksmithing and you are correct, so many silversmithing and blacksmithing techniques are the same. Keep it up and if you have any questions, let me know. Have Fun. Greg Greenwood.

[@mr.iforgot3062]

Your pretty good at teaching. Im on the duller side (Sharp tool shed, anology) I understand you. Thanks.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello mr.iforgot, I am glad we can make the connection. If you have any questions in the future, please feel free to let me know. Thanks for watching. Greg Greenwood

[@maxdangers]

I tried forging the little blob of silver I made two days ago. It took about twenty hits before it suddenly ricocheted around the garage and became lost somewhere in one of the many piles of stuff. I am studying this video between garage cleaning sessions so this never happens again. On the positive side; this video is very helpful, I appreciate your insights and I will at least have a tidy garage even if I don't find the little half flat silver blob anytime soon 😀

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Clean Garage Max! Love your great story. Thanks for your comments, I appreciate it. Make sure when you do find your blob, that you anneal it often. The metal will become hard quickly with the heavy hammer blows and it will want to 'escape', so anneal, anneal, anneal. Good Luck and let me know how it goes. Greg Greenwood

[@milansulc6871]

Děkuji za pěkné video, je málo řemeslníků, kteří se dokáží podělit o své znalosti a poznatky i zkušenosti tak, jako vy. Děkuji vám za to. 👍👏

[@greggreenwood4628]

Milan, Děkuji za vaše milé komentáře. Vážím si toho. Velmi rád se podělím a pomůžu, když můžu. Užijte si videa. Greg Greenwood

[@marcovalverde6401]

Excellent didactics, I have never seen explanations so clear and easy to understand, thank you very much

[@greggreenwood4628]

Wow, thank you Marco for your very kind comments. I am glad I can help. Keep watching! Thanks again. Greg Greenwood

[@freyjabrigid]

This was very interesting and very clear. Thank you for this.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hi Gail, I'm glad you enjoyed the video. If you would like any other videos that will help you, let me know! Thanks Greg Greenwood

[@cheybludick8628]

Thank you for this patient and calm lesson, in my country (South Africa) we would call you oupa, which basically means wise older gentleman. You are an oupa for sure

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Cheyb, Thank you very much for your kind comments. I appreciate it. Best wishes from your oupa. Greg Greenwood

[@janwoutschrotenboer106]

Thank you so much. Very nice to see, I like your style of teaching, very calmly and skillful.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello, Thank you very much for your kind comments. I appreciate it. If there are any questions that you may have or suggestions for other videos, please feel free to let me know. Have fun forging!! Thanks again. Greg Greenwood

[@BobShaffer-wt6cs]

Greg, I keep watching your videos over and over, I learn more every time I watch. You are one of my favorites on UouTube.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Bob, I am very happy you are learning from my videos! Thank you for your kind comments. Keep watching. Greg Greenwood

[@nummers6337]

I love your videos so much. Thank you for taking to time to name each tool and explain what they do. You are an excellent teacher.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Nummers, Thank you very much! You are more than welcome! Greg Greenwood

[@8mycereal]

This needs more views. Good content

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank You very much. I appreciate your comment. Please pass the link onto your colleges and let them know about it. Forging is a skill that can make your jewelry and silversmithing projects much more interesting and 3 dimensional! Watch for new videos about how to use forging in jewelry designs. Greg

[@8mycereal]

Greg Greenwood Wow sounds amazing. Your channel has good quality and hope it flourishes. Sure I’ll share.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thanks a million. If you have any questions or suggestions for any new videos, feel free to let me know. Greg

[@8mycereal]

Greg Greenwood yes i do. I don’t have an anvil at my house neither can i get a railroad track. What can I use one as an replacement

[@greggreenwood4628]

Good Morning Tim, You will need some type of anvil to forge on. Sometimes a railroad track can be very rough and pitted. This takes a long time to clean it and smooth enough for forging. I don't know what your budget is for tools, but there are some inexpensive anvils for sale. Harbor Freight (tool company) ; 55 pound Anvil - $49.99 WalMart: 11 pound Anvil - free shipping- $48.99 Rio Grande Jewelry supply has bench blocks for forging - $13.45 and $29.45 Also you can check your local hardware stores. They sometimes have small anvils for sale. Many vices have an anvil top to them that can be used for forging. If you have access to a "junk yard" , you can find a nice piece of steel that can work. Be creative and you will find the right piece of metal to start with. Thanks Greg Greenwood

[@adroaldoribeiro4529]

That hammer's face is brighter than my future

[@greggreenwood4628]

😎 Greg Greenwood

[@barbschiedermayer5964]

Exceptional tutorial. I learned so much. Thank you!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Barb, Glad it was helpful! You are more than welcome. If you have any questions, please let me know. Thank you. Greg Greenwood

[@Four9sFineJewelry]

Oh my gosh is this a godsend!!! I’m about to start trying this tomorrow. Thank you!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Josh, Awesome!! If you have any questions, please feel free to let me know. Good Luck! Greg Greenwood

[@lefthand7595]

Yiu are amazing teacher and your sharing knowledge is very appreciated ❤❤❤

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Lefthand, Thank you very much for your kind comments. I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@leilahankinson4498]

exactly the instruction I was looking for, thank you!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Leila, Awesome, I am glad I could help you! If you have any questions, please let me know. Thanks Greg Greenwood

[@ScottTheis]

9:40 Dude, your hammering is so accurate and well controlled. Too often I'm all over the place. That was super impressive.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Scott, Thank you for your compliment. Don't worry, you will get better. It only takes a little practice. I've been forging for 50 years! Oh my gosh! Time flies when you are having fun! Thanks again Scott. Keep watching. Greg Greenwood

[@shirineromankurth1633]

@@greggreenwood4628 thank you 🙏 this is a great video and you are a fantastic teacher !

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank you, I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@milouschmidt]

It is such a pleasure it is to learn from this kind of great teacher :) thank you so much for a beautiful and highly educational content :)

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Milena, Thank you for your comments. I appreciate it. Keep watching! Greg Greenwood

[@phunwithphiphi8055]

Thank you for making this channel and video it is an excellent tutorial, I'm going to adapt this to make my own wire out by casting super thin ingots, then forging into wire after that I'll try the reverse plain with a curl. Please keep the content coming!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank you for the compliment on my channel and video. Let me know how the forging works out for you. Good Luck. Greg

[@johnnytarponds9292]

Another awesome video! Thank you!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Johnnytarponds, Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you for your comments. Greg Greenwood

[@TimT-um6rt]

Thanks Greg! Watched your various videos occasionally. Being a hobby Nevada Turquoise miner, my jewelry bench time is limited,thus my skill level is slowly developing. Of all the video tutorials on line, I find yours most rewarding and throughly informative ! Happy New Year!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Tim, Glad to see that I am helping with your skill levels. Thank you so much for your comments. I appreciate it. The best to you in the new year. Greg Greenwood

[@juliehaffenden6254]

Just discovered you! Many thanks for your thoroughly informative and inspiring lessons. Looking forward to some more.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Julie, Welcome and thank you for your kind comments. If you have any questions in the future, please feel free to let me know. I am here to help. Thank you again. Greg Greenwood

[@RobCardIV]

So, about 10 years ago I made a "Master craft Metal Wood Stone" playlist on youtube. This was added. I did not know before. now I know. It looks so fun. So Well Written.. I feel like everything hes saying is educational. point to point. What a great way to enter smithing. Such a seemingly simple exercise, yet so much to master. in less than 10 minutes even...

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thanks Rob for your comments. I am very glad to help. Greg Greenwood

[@aleister9995]

This is a great video, thanks for explaining everything so well

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Aleister999, You are more than welcome. Glad I can help. Thank you for commenting. Greg Greenwood

[@yassuo1431]

You deserve more views keep it up! 😁👍

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank you!! I appreciate your comment. Pass the word on. Greg Greenwood

[@RudolfSadolino]

Great and informative video, you have a calm and professional demeanor that I really appreciate.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Rudolf, Thank you for your kind comment. I appreciate you watching. Greg Greenwood

[@laos5630]

Thank you so much for your videos. Calm, clear instruction without a sales pitch attached.. very refreshing and informative. KZbin at its finest.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello LA Os, Thank you for your kind comments. I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@lynnshaw5585]

Great teacher!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank you, I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@katznatalia3388]

Спасибо большое,Грег!!! Ваши видео очень интересны и полезны для меня!!!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Katz, Love your comments. Thank you for watching! Greg Greenwood

[@ChrisCanomi]

Love this content! 😵 so interesting and beautiful results

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank you Christian, Glad you enjoyed the video. Greg Greenwood

[@pokeyfox2236]

3 minute listening and already many thing learned….dam, thanks for that vid :)

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Pokey Fox, I am glad you are learning. You are more than welcome. Keep watching. Greg Greenwood

[@samuellaramsey5963]

Great info! Thank you!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Samuella, Glad you enjoyed it! I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@ceeceeceecee7753]

Thanks so much for sharing. Got it.😃👏👏👏👏🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟👋

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello cee cee, Glad I can help! Thank you for watching. Greg Greenwood

[@allanthompson9695]

Thanks Greg, very informative video. I'm doing my very first looking around outside the box, so to speak.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Allan, Thanks, you are very welcome. It is fun outside the box!! Enjoy. Greg Greenwood

[@Poecilia1963]

The anvil in the box of sand is brilliant. I live in an apartment and when I have a lot of hammering to do I pack up my hammers & mini-anvil and head for the seaside, luckily only a block away, so as not to bother the neighbours. But I will do a setup like this for when I just need to do just a little bit.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Sue, Thank you for sharing. I wish I could take my anvil to the seaside!!! How relaxing and beautiful. I sure the neighbors thank you!! LOL Good Luck and if you have any questions, please let me know. Thanks again. Greg Greenwood

[@lisacassella955]

You are a wonderful teacher! I appreciate your videos!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank you Lisa. You made my day! If you have any questions, please feel free to let me know. Thanks again, Greg Greenwood

[@lisacassella955]

@@greggreenwood4628 one question for a beginner: Where would I buy a forging hammer like you are using in this video?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Lisa, Rio Grande Jewelry Supply is an excellent supplier of all jewelry equipment and supplies. They have 3 hammers that would be good for you. 1. Goldsmith's Cross Pein # 112226 / $7.95 It is a lightweight hammer that you can use on all sizes of wire. 2. Locksmith's Hammer #112530 $18.99 This hammer is heavier and it looks like the faces are not polished, which means you have to polish. Not a fun job when you are starting out! 3. Planishing Hammer #112402 $35.99 This a a hammer that you will use a lot. It is more expensive, but it is a good quality. Ace Hardware also has a Blacksmith Hammer #20160 2.5 pound hammer $12.99. If I were starting out, I would recommend Rio Grande #1 and #3. This will give you the widest range of uses. Go on their website and take a look. Thanks for the great question. Good Luck and I'm here if you have any other questions. Greg Greenwood

[@lisacassella955]

@@greggreenwood4628 I do business with Rio Grande & appreciate the suggestions! Thank you!

[@crowfoot7355]

Thank you

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Crow Foot, You're more than welcome.. Greg Greenwood

[@Susanarylander]

Love your videos

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank You Susana, I really appreciate it. If you have any questions in the future, please feel free to ask. Thanks Greg Greenwood

[@20usk]

Awesome ty!,i will love to see more, keep it up!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank you, I appreciate your comment. I you have any questions, please feel free to let me know. Greg Greenwood

[@yvonneackermandiaz9469]

Interesting, simple not difficult und beautifull, fascinating, thanks, thats magistral class for the people love make forms unique, only one, from there the shape can be infinity..thankyuo

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Yvonne, Thank you very much for your comments. I appreciate it. I am happy to help. Greg Greenwood

[@E-Kat]

Thank you so much for such high quality video! The close-up camera shots are so perfect! We're so lucky to be able to receive such excellent tuition ! 👍👍👍

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Ekaterina, You are more than welcome. Thank you for your kind comments. I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@E-Kat]

@@greggreenwood4628 I appreciate what you do for everyone who's not able to pay for expensive courses and can't even get there, to attend. I do realize how much work goes into making these very good videos. To be able to watch them over and over again,is so much better than going on a course where a tutor has too many students to attend to. You're so good at explaining! May I ask you a question: when you were starting out as a silversmith, what was the tool you have found out later it wasn't that essential, if there was one? Do you maybe have a tool like that even now, which sits in your workshop, very rarely used? Thank you so much, have a lovely day Greg. 🥀

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Ekaterina, sorry for the delay in replying to you. Thank you so much for your kind comments, I really appreciate it. I am so happy that I can help you. The tools that were not that essential were several different forming hammers. I found that I only used one or two instead of 5 or 6. When I first started, I only had the very basics. If you learn the techniques correctly, you don't have to have the "perfect" tool. Remember, many years ago the ancient goldsmiths did not have the modern tools that we now have. They produced some of the most beautiful jewelry pieces ever!! The best to you. Ask questions anytime. Greg Greenwood

[@E-Kat]

@@greggreenwood4628 hello Greg, thank you very much for your excellent explanation. There are some pieces of jewellery, made very long time ago which a so exquisitely crafted, no one can even make them not! There's this intricate necklace I saw in a book and they've said the best jewellers had tried to replicate it but have failed! Skills like that are so easily lost! That's why it's so important to do what you do so excellently, pass down the information. I'm so sorry to take up your valuable time with my questions! You need not apologize for taking time to answer! I feel bad now!☺️ I'll continue watching your videos and learning. Thank you very much Greg. 👍👍👍

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Ekaterina, Thank you for your heart felt comments. Do not feel bad. I am here to help you when you need it. Thanks for watching. Enjoy and learn. Greg Greenwood

[@alexandrevlaemynck9432]

Hi, thank you ;) I didn't know this detail (the hammer side) ;)

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Alexandre, Glad I could help! Greg Greenwood

[@laxmichaurasia9857]

Very good

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Laxmi, Thank you very much!! Greg Greenwood

[@kieranobrien7579]

Brilliant 👍

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Kieran, Thanks a million!! Greg Greenwod

[@donobototron]

thank you for this video. the up close shots of annealing were very helpful. we live in a townhome and our studio is in a room next to our neighbours bedroom. our neighbours will thank you for the great tip on using sand with the anvil. :)

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello David and Laura, Glad it was helpful! Yes, your neighbor will be happy about the sand. Also, make yourselves a couple of sand bags. About 8"X10"X3". Canvas is a good cloth to use. You need to use these on your railroad track to hold down the ringing. Set track on one bag and lay the 2nd on the track. Your ears will definitely be glad you did. Plus, you will use them for holding different mandrels and for forming metal into them. Good Luck Greg Greenwood

[@donobototron]

@@greggreenwood4628 I will do that.Thanks. I had a question...I see you use an acetylene/air torch for your work. If I have a oxy/acetylene smith little torch can I use that with just the acetylene turned on or would I need a torch specific to acetylene/air?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello, The little smith torch is designed as a 2 hose system. It feeds the oxygen into the torch and mixes with the gas. The acetylene / air torch is designed to mix air from the atmosphere into the torch. You would have to buy a completely different set up. The little smith is a good torch and should serve you well. Thanks Greg Greenwood

[@donobototron]

@@greggreenwood4628 Thank you.

[@rommelpangilinan829]

nice video,thanks

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Rommel, Glad you liked it! Thank You. Greg Greenwood

[@dawncawthra3519]

Wonderful ty! Just found you and subscribed!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Dawn, Thanks for subbing and watching. If you have any questions in the future, please feel free to let me know. Thanks again. Greg Greenwood

[@mandymcclure717]

Hi..thanks 🙏

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Mandy, You are more than welcome. Greg Greenwood

[@frantiseklaluch6605]

SUB, I am going to watch your videos, as beginner in this field, I find it interesting and educative....

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello František LALUCH, Awesome, thank you! If you have any questions in the future, please feel free to let me know. Greg Greenwood

[@frantiseklaluch6605]

@@greggreenwood4628 Thank you, Greg, your videos answer a lot of them... The last my question was, what is the pickle? Now I know better, thank to you... 😀 Great are videos about old techniques, as I do not have many tools yet...

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello František LALUCH , Glad I can help. Take your time getting new tools. As you work, you will discover which tools are important and necessary for you style of work. Good luck. Greg Greenwood

[@DaleRaby]

I found that the techniques you use are pretty much identical to those I use in blacksmithing... other than that you don't normally forge iron cold. I thought I might try to make myself a few sets of sterling silver chop sticks, which should be a fairly simple taper with deliberate "hand hammered" marks along the entire length. Work hardening is good as I would not want the chop sticks to bend in general use. I had no idea that my current tools would be interchangeable for use with silver. All I will have to do is polish my anvil and hammer face and I'll be a silver smith with forty years of experience. (If only it would be so simple!)

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Dale, You are exactly correct!! Blacksmithing and Silversmithing use all of the same techniques. I can't wait for you to do your chop sticks. Suggestion for you. Make sure that you anneal your silver wires often. They can become work hardened quickly and will want to crack if over forged without annealing. Bring the silver up to just below "dull cherry red". You can air cool and then quench in pickle to clean the oxides. Quenching will not harden the silver like quenching steel. If you have any questions in the future, please feel free to let me know. 40+ Way to go. Greg Greenwood

[@mcrekkr]

I'm about to get some silver to make a vikings bracelet and this is really helpful. Thank you.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hi Justin, I am glad I can help you. If you have any questions at anytime, please feel free to let me know. The viking bracelet sounds interesting! Let me know how it goes. Thanks Greg Greenwood

[@mcrekkr]

@@greggreenwood4628 I got the first part of the forge going well and upset the material to a bell shape. Now trying to stretch out one side I'm finding that I'm getting a bit of a fish mouth. I'm not 100% sure how to go about fixing it or if I can but I have a feeling I'm probably just going to have to cut the fish mouth off and go from there. Do you think it's because I'm not getting the piece hot enough?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hi Justin, It sounds like you are just hammering unevenly. Start in the middle of the wire first, then move out to one edge with just a few hammer blows, then forge the other edge with the same amounts of hammer blows. The "fish mouth" shape tells me that the hammer blows are not even and one side is expanding too much. As for not getting the piece hot enough: If you have annealed the metal properly, it will not make any difference in the spreading of the metal...BUT... If you are hammering too much and "work hardening" the metal, it could spread unevenly. When you are forging the metal with the hammer, the metal will work harden very rapidly, so don't be afraid to anneal several times during your forging operation. It does not hurt anything, it is just the opposite, it makes it easier and keeps the metal soft and will spread faster. I hope this helps you .. If you have any other questions or follow ups on the forging, let me know. Thanks for the questions. Greg Greenwood

[@mcrekkr]

@@greggreenwood4628 do you think a cross peen hammer might work well in a situation like this?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Absolutely! That is what the cross peen is for. Give it a try. Greg

[@jaspagate299]

You’re a gem of a person man! I’m learning how to make jewelry but can’t afford to go to a school or join an expensive online course. Your video’s are extremely helpful and informative! I’m curious if you happen to have affiliate links to any of the tools that you use. I would love to be able to buy specific tools from specific companies that you have tested and know work well. (sorting through all the crappy tools out there is a mess!) If you have affiliate links I could know I’m getting the proper tools that won’t let me down while you end up with a percentage of the proceeds from the tool being bought!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Tristen, Thank you for your kind comments. I can understand about the expensive courses. Sorry, I do not have any affiliates for any of the tools. I can recommend Rio Grande Jewelry Supply and Pepe Tools. They both have been around for a while and any of the tools or equipment that I have ordered from them have been satisfactory. Thank you for thinking of me, I really appreciate it. Keep watching and if you have any questions in the future, please feel free to let me know. Greg Greenwood

[@stefaniesprester9729]

I’ve just discovered your videos and am so grateful! They’re wonderful, patient, and informative. I’m having a hard time finding cross peen hammers like you’re using. Can you provide a resource? I’m finding those that are too heavy or for fine jewelry - but nothing like you’re using - thank you!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Stefanie, Thank you for the nice comments. Yes, it is hard to find good cross peen hammers. Here are a few suggestions: Rio Grande Jewelry Supply has a variety of sizes of forging hammers. #112427 =2.2 lb. - $35.99 / #112237 = 4 oz. $25.40 / #112223 = 3.5oz. $7.95 / #112530= 17.6 oz. $18.99 Some of these lighter ones might work better for you than the heavy 2 lb hammers. Good Luck and let me know how it is going.. Thanks again. Greg Greenwood

[@stefaniesprester9729]

@@greggreenwood4628 thank you, Greg!

[@greggreenwood4628]

You are welcome! Greg

[@mohsentashayoi5839]

Tank

[@greggreenwood4628]

You are welcome. Greg Greenwood

[@rockclimbingrules]

Awesome vid. I’m playing with copper at the moment and considering taking the leap to silver. Should you say the characteristics are similar enough? Is there anything I should really look out for?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello justrelax, Copper and Sterling silver are different, but some characteristics are similar. Soldering can be a challenge. But forging and forming are similar. Start small and you will learn as you go. Good luck and if you have any questions in the future, let me know. Check out my channel, it will give you many helpful tips. Thanks for watching . Greg Greenwood

[@mayurazaveri5166]

Hi reg, Thank you for making such detailed video. Really appreciate your work. I want to start as a beginner. Could you tell us the wire guage you are using for forging? Would really appreciate if you could include this too in your future videos. Thanks once again

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello MZ, Thank you for your comments. The wire gauge is 10 gauge. I used a larger gauge for the video so it would be easier to show on the video. The same principles work on all gauges. Thanks for watching. Greg Greenwood

[@narendrakhona1168]

VERY INFORMATIVE VIDEO FOR BEGINNERS. WHAT IS THE ACID USED, & THE PICKLING SOLUTION. THANKS

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Narendra, Thank you for your question and comment. Check out my video "What is Pickle" . It will answer many of your questions. Thank you. Greg Greenwood

[@OldManandtheSuperC]

The silversmithing class I originally learned forging the instructor had us use a brass hammer for forging and stamping. Any thoughts?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Brent, Interesting question. Brass hammers will work for forging very well. What I don't like about forging with them is, they are a soft metal and can loose the clean forging face after forging for a while. I also feel the steel hammer because it is harder than brass, can move more metal with fewer hammer blows. I hope this helps you. If you have any questions, please let me know. I am happy to help. Greg Greenwood

[@ukguitaryogi2888]

hi can you do more videos on hammer forging ingots to be rolled into round wire later or sheet. thanks. cant find any good ones online with explanations clearly and cold forge. I see alot of indian jewellers forging there ingot stocks much faster but whilst still very hot i am guessing in order to shape it so fast with no cracks? thanks alot

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello UK, I do not use forged ingots in my studio. But the process is the same for forging large gauge silver. You must keep the silver annealed and not over "work hardened".. The work hardening is making the cracks. So it is VERY important to constantly anneal the metal to avoid cracking. The reason the Indian jewelers forge it hot is to extend the annealing process avoiding having to anneal more often. I hope this helps you. Greg Greenwood

[@Chancethecatthatcan]

Hi Greg. What brand of forging hammers are you using? They seem to be of excellent quality. Your hammering is so delicate too. When I hammer the entire house rattles as if a wild beast was running through it. Thanks for another great tutorial

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Mia, My forging hammers are over 40 years old. Unfortunately, there is not a brand on them. They have been excellent hammers over the years and have forged many miles of wire. I can relate to your rattling house. Don't worry, you will get better with more control and the beast will stop running through the house. (Well, maybe a slow walk!) Thank you for watching. I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@Chancethecatthatcan]

@@greggreenwood4628 thank you

[@greggreenwood4628]

You are welcome. Greg Greenwood

[@Packaroo]

Great video! I had a question about the anvil. Is there a way to clear up the hammer nicks? I do some silver hammering myself, and I use a smooth hammer, but sometimes I hit the anvil surface and create marks that transfer to the silver. Thanks for the tips.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hi Packaroo, The face of most anvils are not work hardened and will leave hammer marks when stuck. (unfortunately). Try to avoid those marks when forging. If you do have some transfer marks, you can planish then out using your planishing hammer and smooth bench block. This is an extra step, but will help in the look of your forged pieces. Good Luck, Greg Greenwood

[@Packaroo]

@@greggreenwood4628 Thanks. I didn't think about the planishing hammer. I tried only sandpaper before.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hi Packaroo, Give it a try. I think you will be happy with the results. Greg Greenwood

[@paolodavies6714]

HI Greg, really enjoyed the video instruction. i am just starting out on jewellery making at 55 years of age.. want to produce silver jewellery commercially. any tips on silver/stone suppliers uk? thanks in adavance

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Paolo, I am glad that you enjoyed my video. Check out my channel, you will find more videos that will help you. It is never too late to start jewelry making. Happy you are starting! Congratulations. I would recommend "Cooksongold". You can goggle them. They have a wide variety of tools, metals, and supplies. Good Luck and let me know how you are doing when you get started. Thanks again. Greg Greenwood

[@bf9494]

Hello, what acid solution do you use? Also what is a cheap and readily available acid solution that can be used to quickly remove the oxidation? Thank you for your time.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello BF, Thank you for your question. I use Sparex for the commercial acid. Citric acid and vinegar for the home made pickle. Please check out my video. "What is Pickle?" This will give you more details about pickle and oxides. Keep on watching!! Greg Greenwood

[@juliehaffenden6254]

Hello Greg. Thank you so much for your great, informative videos. I love that you explain so thoroughly the ‘how and why’ we should work with silver and what the results would be if we don’t adhere to the guidelines - no stone is left unturned. I would love to attempt making an acorn. Do you have any plans to demonstrate something that like that please? Kind regards Julie

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Julie, Thank you for your kind comments. I appreciate it. I am glad you are learning. You may consider making the acorn out of sheet metal. I will be doing some forming videos in the future. Keep watching and the forming techniques may help you with your acorn. Thanks again. Greg Greenwood

[@juliehaffenden6254]

@@greggreenwood4628 Thank you for your swift response Greg. I shall certainly look forward to your future videos. Julie

[@jakesabean]

Great video, really helpful and informative 👍🏻

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Jake, Thank you, I appreciate you watching. Greg Greenwood

[@dorsteel8398]

Do you have a video that shows how to make wide cuff bracelets?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Dor, I am sorry I do not have a video on wide cuff (sheet metal) bracelets at this time. I will be making one in the future. You can use the forging techniques in my forging videos to make a forged bracelet. The techniques in the video will relate to a bracelet. Thanks for the question and keep watching. Greg Greenwood

[@rebelonemarkgold4532]

Annealing when I put some of my pieces in pickle they show copper . I have to let them sit in the pickle until the copper is gone. Is this a normal on all pieces.? Or am I doing something wrong? I don't know about the rest of us I could use a video on it. Thanks Mark

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello, Thank you for your question. There are a couple of reasons that your silver pieces are turning copper in the pickle. 1.) Your pickle is old and dirty. This will leave a copper coating on the piece. Make a fresh batch. 2.) You have used steel tongs to put your piece in the pickle. Make sure that you use copper tongs to retrieve your pieces from the pickle. 3.) You may have accidentally put your cross lock tweezers in the pickle. They are make of steel. Do not put steel in pickle. Also, thanks for the video suggestion. Thanks again. Greg Greenwood

[@rpp7768]

❤

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello rpp, Thank you! Greg Greenwood

[@nunyabiznes4471]

I am a year into learning silversmithing, this was a very well done and informative video! I have never seen anyone use an anvil in a box with sand as a cushion. I can see it would dampen the noise. The transcript said it keeps the anvil from “ringing”, is this correct? Thank you for making this video! I’m now a new subscriber. I need to buy an anvil which manufacturer would you recommend? I plan on making cups and bowls at some point, larger pieces.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Nunya, Thank you so much for watching and subscribing. I really appreciate it. Yes, the sand keeps the anvil from ringing. I put a plastic bag over the top of the sand and then partially bury the anvil feet into the sand. This way I keep the sand from being loose and if you drop your forged wire into the box, the plastic prevents the wire from picking up the sand. Sand and forging do not mix!!! If you have any questions in the future, please feel free to let me know. I am here to help you. Thanks again and let me know how your silversmithing adventure is going. Greg Greenwood

[@nunyabiznes4471]

@@greggreenwood4628 thank you very much Greg! I appreciate the reply very much. So far, my adventure in learning how to work with silver has been fantastic! I’ve been making a lot of presents for my friends. I’m hoping to learn how to make the old Gorham style mixed metal bowls, I like the Japanese influence very much from the turn of the century. I watched a few of your videos back to back, and loved the simple reverse, reverse plane demo you demonstrated. It was excellent. Thank you. I’ve been looking at range hoods for my basement, I’m very inspired by your videos.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Nunya, Thank you for the update on your progress. Sounds like you have great interests. Glad you liked the reverse forging demos. Good luck on your range hood!! Thanks again. Greg Greenwood

[@tag5504]

May I ask what size square wire you are using? Thanks!

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello tag, I used 8 gauge square wire. I wanted to use a larger wire so it would show up better in the video. Thank you for watching. Greg Greenwood

[@lostwithdan4331]

For practice is it best to say buy 1mm silver wire for soldering to practice my soldering or does anyone have a better way of practicing?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Dan, I prefer to use sheet solder and cut small pieces for soldering. Check out my video " Silver Soldering Hidden Details That No One Ever Showed You" Best Wishes Greg Greenwood

[@Jento]

How long do you leave pieces in the pickle pot?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Jento, When the pickle is warm, it may only take a minute or so. Check out my video "What is Pickle". It will answer some of your questions. Thanks for watching. I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@MultiMalone1]

What kind of acid do you put it Down in?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello MultiMalone, I use "Sparex" . You can also use citric acid. I find the Sparex works faster and does a great job. Watch my video "What is Pickle?" It gives you some choices for pickle. Thanks for watching. Greg Greenwood

[@patriciaquiroga2239]

Hi Greg, what gage are you using for the wire? Greetings from Mexico

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Patricia, I used 8 gauge square sterling silver wire. Thanks for subscribing and commenting. Have fun forging! Greg Greenwood

[@patriciaquiroga2239]

Thank you 😊

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Patricia, You are more than welcome. Greg Greenwood

[@yassuo1431]

I dont have the acid can I only use water? and how many minutes should I cool it off and put it on water?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hi, Water will not remove any of the oxides. You can use vinegar as an acid or mix up some citric acid and water. Vinegar is the easiest. You can put into the acid (vinegare) right after you solder. Then rinse in water. Good luck. Greg Greenwood

[@laxmichaurasia9857]

I am proud of my india hai hind

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank you. Greg Greenwood

[@64t120r]

Have you ever used a flatter? It can save a lot of time when planishing flat pieces.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello, I'm not sure what you mean by a flatter. I'm not familiar with that term. Let me know. Thanks I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@64t120r]

@@greggreenwood4628 It's a blacksmithing tool. It's basically a hammer with a big flat square piece of steel on one side. You lay it on your workpiece and hit it to flatten out your work. In the case of jewelry I use a 3/8" thk piece of smooth flat steel and a small jewelers anvil. I lay the steel on the work piece and give it a few taps with a hammer. Use more pressure when flattening a larger piece of silver. You can hold it at angles or flat, whatever you need. Mine is a size that's a little bigger than my normal size of work. It takes shapes and hammer marks out of the silver very quickly. Thanks for the videos.

[@64t120r]

@@greggreenwood4628 Please be aware that a flatter tends to move the material in all directions so you may make an allowance for that. It's a minimal amount, but it does occur. If you decide to try the technique, please let me know what your thoughts are. Thanks

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello, I knew I had heard the term before. I love blacksmithing also. As for the jewelry case. I will give it a try. And yes, the metal will spread in all directions for sure. Thank you for the information. Greg Greenwood

[@greggreenwood4628]

I replied to your comments above. Thanks again. Greg Greenwood

[@kensmith8832]

I had trouble following as the subject keeps changing before a process is completed. Annealing silver isn't just the heat, but the cooling method. It appears the air quenching is the cooling method, unlike the process of annealing copper which requires a quenching in water.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Ken, Sorry that you are have had some trouble following. If you have any questions, please feel free to let me know and I will try to clarify for you. Thank you for watching. Greg Greenwood

[@lotusconsultations9925]

Thank you. Very helpful. Newbie, here. Just wanna make a baby spoon. I have 300oz of silver as an investment and would like to play and learn a skill while I've got it.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Lotus, Welcome!! Good Luck and have fun. Greg Greenwood

[@lotusconsultations9925]

@@greggreenwood4628 Thank you. :)

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thanks. Greg Greenwood

[@hellvikk288]

why do/should you use a raw hide mallet instead of a plastic or rubber mallet?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Hellvikk, Good question. The raw hide mallet has been the standard for mallets for years and I have been using it for over 50 years. But, there are newer mallets made from many different materials that do a great job. I have some of them and I do use them. Use the mallet that does the job for you and one that you are comfortable using. Thanks for asking. Greg Greenwood

[@HaecEsneLegas]

As a blacksmith... can I just hammer it while it's cherry red? Then once it cools heat it to cherry again and repeat the process as needed? Once the desired shape is achieved then I would clean it like you did before forging it. Seems odd to heat it and then forge it cold.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello HaecEsneLegas, Blacksmithing and silversmithing are similar in basic forging techniques, but the metals are different. Blacksmiths use ferris (Iron) metals. To bend and shape ferris metals, ferris metals have to be heated and then worked (forged)hot. Non ferris metals , the metals that silversmiths use (silver, copper) can be softened by heating to a dull red color. This is called annealing. Then the metal can be cooled but unlike ferris metals, the atoms will stay soft so the the silversmiths can work (forge) the metal cold. Thanks for asking. Greg Greenwood

[@HaecEsneLegas]

@@greggreenwood4628 in short, I understand it will stay soft... but it's implied that you can't or shouldn't work the metal hot. It seems logical and faster to work the metal quickly at an appropriate heat level before cleaning it as you do in the video. Would it harm the silver in some way to work it hot, or is it simply more about convenience? Working it cold you wouldn't need tongs or risk overheating/melting it. But working it hot with the extra tools seems much faster. And I would think the silver being hot would help prevent any cracking/splitting during more aggressive bends, twists, etc.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello HaecEsneLegas, It does harm the silver to work hot. It will tear and split. Thanks for asking. Greg Greenwood

[@irishwillye7518]

What kind of acid is this(for cooling)

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Irish Willye, The acid is "Sparex" That is the brand name. It is a mild acid used in jewlery making for removing the oxide layers. You can also use Vinegar or Citric Acid. Check out my video "What is Pickle?" It will explain the pickling process and alternatives to stronger acids. Thanks for your question. Greg Greenwood.

[@irishwillye7518]

@@greggreenwood4628 Thank you Greg for great answer. And can I use this for gold too?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Yes, although gold does not oxidize like silver. Greg Greenwood

[@daled7782]

What’s up with all the hammer handles having 666 engraved on them

[@greggreenwood4628]

Glad we cleared that up. Greg Greenwood

[@wendettalangston6257]

What size wire is this?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Wendetta, I used 10 gauge for the video. It is large so it shows better on the video. The same principles apply for all gauges. But you can use just a flat pein for small gauge wire. Use whatever is comfortable for you. Thanks. Greg Greenwood

[@wendettalangston6257]

@@greggreenwood4628 Thank you! I refer to your videos often. Thank you for being so detailed.

[@xX0IRIDIUM0Xx]

What's up with that 666 on the raw hide hammer

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Marcus, It is a GGG . Those are my initials. For sure NOT 666. Thanks for your observation. Greg G. Greenwood

[@xX0IRIDIUM0Xx]

@@greggreenwood4628 sorry..makes sense. Nice work on the solder.

[@greggreenwood4628]

No Problem! Have a great one! Thanks Greg Greenwood

[@KC9RXP]

Cliff carroll anvil?

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Mitchell, Absolutely! 35 pound model. I have had it for 45 years!! Love it. Greg Greenwood

[@KC9RXP]

@@greggreenwood4628 awesome. I've been looking at anvils to start silversmithing with, and the 35 pound is what I'm considering. It's reassuring to see a silversmith using one. I think my decisions made. Thanks!

[@greggreenwood4628]

The best to you. Enjoy the anvil. Oh yes, I have put it on a box of sand standing on the floor, with the sand exposed at the top covered by a clear plastic sheet. The anvil nestles down into the sand which deadens the noise. Works perfect. Greg Greenwood

[@KC9RXP]

@@greggreenwood4628 I did pick up on that also. I'll likely do something similar.

[@greggreenwood4628]

You will be happy you did. Greg Greenwood

[@daled7782]

Nvm I see your comment it’s GGG I’m sorry

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Dale, No problem, I would want to know about the numbers too! Thank you for watching. Greg Greenwood

[@darrenstettner5381]

There’s a KZbinr called Paul Mcwhorter who teaches wizardry. One of you is a clone.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Darren, I just checked it out. Very Weird!! You are correct. thanks Greg Greenwood

[@markmanning2921]

sorry but it is not soddering, it is sol-der-ing

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Mark, Thank you for your observation. The word solder has an interesting background. Google it. The British pronounce the "L" but in the US the "L" is silent. It is just one of those interesting things that makes us all unique! Both ways are correct. Thanks Greg Greenwood

[@tarn1135]

Love the tutorial and what the names of the different steps are but damn is this boring to watch/listen to. Sounds contradictory but it’s not, kind of what my problem was in school with boring teachers.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Tarn, Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I agree that this video is a little too slow. It was one of my original videos. I hope my newer ones have a better pace. Keep watching. Greg Greenwood

[@thingmaker3]

I will not nitpick. I will not nitpick. I will not nitpick. I will not nitpick. I will not nitpick. I will not nitpick. I will not nitpick. I will not nitpick. Or maybe I will... There are no molecules in a pure metal, only atoms. Please say "atoms" next time. Thanks. Okay, I nitpicked. Sue me.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Lee, Thank you for nikpicking! You are 100% correct. Pure metal is only atoms and not molecules. I will remember next time. Thanks very much! I appreciate it. Greg Greenwood

[@Smashhoke]

Either call it hammering or planishing but quit calling it forging.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Thank you Normad, Please check out my previous reply. Good travels to you. Greg Greenwood

[@stephencoster9532]

Shame he never learnt basic engineering principles, like having a handle on a file, not having rust on it, it degrades the cutting action of the teeth. The teeth cut in both directions. YES, THEY DO!!! It looked really naff to have your elbow fall off the bench, he looked like a drunk. Facial expressions that overemphasize your diction is okay for kindergarten, I'm an adult. No, I don't live in my mum's basement. I'm a trained goldsmith who is registered with the Hallmarking guild here in London. I sell all over the world.

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello Stephen, I appreciate you commenting. Greg Greenwood

[@jonasdowner]

I would prefer to work with real Sterling silver, this seems unethical

[@greggreenwood4628]

Hello R jonas, I'm not sure what you mean in your comment. In this video I am forging Sterling Silver. Most of my work is in sterling silver. Thank you for watching. Greg Greenwood