Lord Of The Rings
IN the first of two linked features, Craft Creations speaks to Nick Taylor. Nick uses his crafting talents to turn old sterling silver coins and cutlery into stunning jewellery items.
Plus, he creates unique pieces of functional art and unusual quirky furniture.
From the workshop that he’s built in his garden, Nick explains how he has turned his talents into a thriving small business.
“I’ve always been a bit of a magpie and silver is my metal of choice. I must have been around the age of 10 when my grandma bought me my first silver ring which I still wear to this date. It wears so well, the more you wear it the brighter and shinier it becomes.
“The ring-maker in me was ignited after speaking to a friend whose brother is a blacksmith. He explained how one of his customers wanted a ring made from a coin. That was it – and I was determined to figure out how it was done! So after many a buckled coin and bruised finger I was on my way to creating some pretty cool rings.
“After a few months pondering on what to call my new hobby, and with my old pup showing signs of age, I thought it would be nice to do something to continue his legacy, so Alfie Dog Rings was born.
“I set up a Facebook page (@ alfiedogrings) and received some interesting feedback, and had people approach me asking me to create something unique from a family heirloom.
“I’ve made rings from old silver dollars and half dollars only to ship them back to America, so I guess you could call my talent one for a worldwide audience, which is brilliant.
“Finding quality silver coins and spoons is no easy task as the world tends to see things at scrap value so these ancient silver spoons and coins dating back nearly 200 years just get melted down and their history lost forever.
“The fact I enjoy what I do is magnified by not only keeping these items alive but giving them a new lease of life in the form of jewellery that’s worn day in, day out; it’s just amazing! ● On November 8, we’re back with Nick to find out about Everything Taylor Made.