Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tyler Sofie. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Tyler, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

My first step into the world of metalworking all started with silver wire, a few pairs of pliers and a love of crystals and minerals. This hobby developed into an obsession and after years of wire wrapping crystals, I got to a crossroads where I wanted to expand my skills and try my hands at metal fabrication.

After landing in Portland, Oregon and the opportunity to take some Metalsmithing courses presented itself, that’s when things started to click and my obsession grew. I took every metals course this small arts and crafts school offered and spent my evenings after work in my makeshift studio. I consistently practiced my new found skills, researched Jewelry making, took risks and taught myself new techniques.

After each phase of my journey, I found new learning opportunities and sought out the best of the best goldsmiths and engravers to study under. My art really started to take a different path after going to school at GRS Training Center (GRSTC) in Emporia, Kansas. Talk about obsessions, engraving is my absolute favorite part of jewelry making and the most vital skill to making fine Jewelry. I’ve been to GRSTC for four separate courses covering different engraving techniques. The basic engraving course was the catalyst, drawing and engraving scrolls with Sam Alfano ignited my love for drawing and design, Inlay and Figures with Jeff Parke was a deep dive into gold inlay and deep relief engraving, which had a large impact on the style of my art. Gold Inlay and deep relief engraving are now one of my specialties. In 2023, I applied for the Grand Masters Program at GRSTC and was chosen along with 12 other amazing artists for a 10 day course studying with Jason Marchiafava. This course was such an incredible opportunity for growth and allowed me to add even more engraving, sculpting, inlay and stone setting techniques to my repertoire.

I also studied under master Jeweler Paul Bartnik in Portland, OR in 2020 and learned the art of wax carving, casting, stone setting techniques, pavè, bright cut engraving and countless tricks of the trade. I feel that this was one of the biggest turning points in my career as I learned not only Jewelry making techniques, but all of the ins and outs of the Jewelry industry, met gem dealers, appraisers and built community. Working on custom pieces and having a mentor to help troubleshoot obstacles, made me realize that the most essential part of being a Jewelry is learning how to solve problems with confidence. Jewelers are problem solvers through and through, an obstacle will present itself on nearly every piece and knowing how to fix an issue like it never happened is the definition of an exceptional jeweler.

I think the pace at which I learned was perfect because it allowed me the chance to practice new techniques, experiment, make mistakes and fully grasp different techniques before moving on to the next step. Becoming a Jeweler takes time, patience and lots of practice. So slowing down the learning process and spending your time at the bench is the key to growth and understanding. I think the biggest obstacle in learning more is always time and money. Studying with the best isn’t cheap and when you are booked out with commissions, its hard to make time to pursue more education. That said, education is essential for growth in your craft, so I try to take a course every two years to expand my skill set.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

As the founder of Wanderer Metalworks, I create bespoke jewelry and hand-engraved pieces that blend modern and ancient techniques. My specialty lies in crafting custom engagement rings, hand-engraved wedding bands, pendants, and artifacts, each piece reflecting the unique story of its owner.

My journey began at music festivals and craft fairs, where I built meaningful connections that have grown into a worldwide clientele. What sets my work apart is not just the technical precision, but the personal attention and care invested in every piece. After years of studying with master craftsmen, I’ve developed a distinctive style that clients recognize as uniquely Wanderer Metalworks, while maintaining versatility in my designs.

In my newly built studio (2024), I offer one-on-one engraving and stone setting courses, creating an inclusive space where clients can witness their jewelry come to life. My custom project process is known for its seamless intake, consistent communication, and attention to detail, ensuring each piece exceeds expectations.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

The mission driving my creative journey is to always be progressing in my art, skill set and expanding my knowledge in the metal arts. And to push the limits, master each technique and share that knowledge with the next generation of Jewelers. And to make heirloom jewelry that will last a lifetime and be admired by many.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

One of my favorite things about making jewelry is that every piece that is created could in fact be passed down for thousands of years, sink to the bottom of the ocean, or sit in a museum. No matter where it ends up, it will hold the energy of the maker and all of the hands it passed through. Evoking emotion through art is the most rewarding aspect of being an artist.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.wanderermetalworks.com/
• Instagram: @wanderer.metalworks