Nelson is from the Eagle clan and began carving in 1973. He trained under his uncle Gordon Cross and argillite carver, Pat Dixon. His father is Raymond Cross, who is known for his carved leather work. He attended a repousse and chasing workshop for jewellery design with English goldsmith, Peter Page. In 1986, Nelson helped Bill Reid carve and paint a large canoe for Expo ’86. He also learned soldering techniques from Bill Reid. Nelson currently resides in Skidegate and spends a great deal of his time creating jewellery in silver and gold.