The 2026 artisans tour is set for October 16-17-18
From the Allegany Artisans, pictured is metalsmith Stephen Walker at work
Sometimes all it takes is one brochure and a little curiosity.
Last October, while visiting family during Allegany Artisans Weekend, Ben Doran spotted an ad in the Allegany Artisans brochure for Walker Metalsmiths in Andover, inviting visitors into the workshop to see how jewelry is made and even create their own hammered ring. It instantly jumped to the top of his must-visit list.
Walker Metalsmiths is no newcomer to the tour. Steve Walker has exhibited in every Allegany Artisans Tour since its beginning in 1988, welcoming generations of visitors into his working studio to experience traditional metalsmithing up close.
Ben and his fiancée, Marlowe, returned to Andover several times to work with Steve on creating their own wedding bands. They chose the hammered style and used family gold, melted down and reshaped for the next generation.
Together, Ben and Marlowe carved their ring designs in wax and chose lost wax casting, an ancient and intricate metalworking process. The wax models are encased in a ceramic mold, the wax is melted away, and molten metal is poured into the cavity left behind. Under Steve’s guidance, they watched as their own wax carvings were transformed, the gold melted, poured, and cast into what would become their forever rings.
The finishing touches made the experience even more meaningful. Their bands were engraved on the spot, turning a visit inspired by a brochure ad into a lasting family heirloom.
Stories like this are at the heart of the Allegany Artisans Tour. Visitors come to explore studios, meet artists, and experience the craft traditions of our region, and many return again and again. The tour does not just showcase exceptional work. It creates connections, memories, and reasons to come back to Allegany County.
Save the Date. The 2026 Allegany Artisans Studio Tour will take place October 16, 17, and 18.
Pick up a brochure this fall or visit www.alleganyartisans.com for tour details and participating artists.
