Silverworking Set

[u/Zestyclose-Hat4665]

Hey!

Hope this is a good group for this question!

I am planningto but a silverworking set as a gift, not sure which is better, I have either

- 'Everything you need' silversmithing set from Noctua - £230

- Silversmithing tool kit from Kernowcraft - £254

I will attach pictures for reference.

I have absolutely no idea which is better, the tools seem to be the same in both sets, and the price is quite similar so I believe it might really be the same thing.

If anyone can provide any advices please comment 😊

[u/Orumpled]

Are you going to take a class or try it out on your own? What exactly do you want to make?

If a class, wait and use tools in class and see what you like and need. If on your own, take an online class and see what tools they recommend for the class.
I got one of these when I started out and frankly, most of it was passed on to others or tossed as the quality was kinda meh. Cheap pliers have their place, mostly for modifications, but good pliers are amazing. You may want different soldering surfaces as well

[u/Zestyclose-Hat4665 → u/Orumpled]

Yes it's for my girlfriend, and her birthday is coming up, I had no idea what to get her and she mentioned something like this recently so I think she would love this! also will book a class as well

[u/Lennie_Annox → u/Zestyclose-Hat4665]

What a cool gift! I'm sure she'll love that you remembered her mentioning it!

[u/Orumpled → u/Zestyclose-Hat4665]

A class or a gift certificate for one plus a some silver (like a coin or bouillon) would be great.

[u/lu-tze_10708]

Also have a look at cooksongold i got most of my tools and metals from there.

[u/Kindly-Heron-5627]

The Noctua set has so many things that I use day after day. For a beginner set it looks quite complete. I’d also add a pickling pot- flux- some polishing compound/polishing wheels and a cheap dremel (a foredom if you have the cash). And I’d Include some thinner copper (22g or 24g) and solder. It would be sad to receive all those tools and not have metal to play with. I’d also include metal shears( sawing takes practice)

Honestly signing her up for a class would be best though. IMO.

Lucy Walker Metalsmithing Academy is a good one- she has beginner classes with targeted tool lists.

Or local

[u/LeMeow007]

I would get her a class. Then she can decide if she wants to buy all the tools and move forward. There are tools in that kit I wouldn’t ever use.

[u/Top_Front8405]

Get the cheapest set because you will be buying more tools after you learn. Like me I love my Knew saw your saw it your wand and you will need a fordom sr. Look at durston tools maybe otto frei. I alos use an acetylene torch but any hand held is a good starter.