Brendan Shelton, a resident of Hanover, has transformed a simple household item into a specialized craft by turning ordinary nails into miniature swords. This long-term hobby has grown from a childhood curiosity into a commercial endeavor, providing tiny weapons for collectors and toy enthusiasts.

How the hobby began

Shelton first discovered the potential of metal nails while experimenting with tools in his parents' garage at age 11. He realized that the material was soft enough to be manipulated into various shapes. His original motivation was purely functional for his own play, as he "just wanted to make weapons for my Lego figures."

Over the last 15 years, the 27-year-old has expanded his repertoire beyond simple blades. His collection now includes:

  • Axes
  • Spears
  • Miniature rifle-style replicas inspired by video games and films

From garage experiments to MicroArmory

What started as a way to accessorize toy figures has become a side hustle through his Etsy shop, MicroArmory. Since 2021, the shop has recorded 111 sales, with individual pieces typically priced between $25 and $50. Shelton also sells his work at the Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen.

The creation process involves hammering the nails into realistic shapes that include handles and guards. While the primary shaping takes less than an hour, Shelton spends significant time on the final details. To ensure safety, he generally leaves the miniature weapons unsharpened unless a buyer specifically asks for a sharper edge.

Challenges of tiny craftsmanship

Working at such a small scale presents unique difficulties. Because the items are so minuscule, they are easily lost. Shelton noted one instance where a sword made for a Dungeons & Dragons figure was lost after the figure's hand broke off.

FAQ

Where can people buy these miniature weapons?

Collectors can find Shelton's work on his Etsy shop, MicroArmory, or in person at the Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen.

Are the tiny swords sharp?

Shelton typically leaves the pieces unsharpened, though he will sharpen them if a customer makes a specific request during a sale.