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The Studio

Montana-Made Artistry

Image by Eric Prouzet

(Idea /Sketching)

"Where it Begins"

From idea to iron

Welcome to Jerry Valdez

From Idea to Iron – The Craftsmanship of Jerry Valdez

Every piece I make starts as a thought—something that takes shape in my mind long before it ever touches metal. I sketch it out by hand, sometimes more than once, until the design feels just right.

Then it’s time to bring it to life.

Using sheets of silver, gold, or cold steel, I cut each shape with precision—by shear, jeweler’s saw, arc welding, files, and grinders. The metals are joined using high-temperature acetylene torches, borax-based flux, and, let’s be honest, a bit of construction-grade language.

Floral and scrollwork patterns are hand-drawn and engraved using time-honored tools, not machines. When it comes to spurs, I start with cold-rolled steel, weld them by hand, polish them, and hard-solder the overlays so they’ll stay put—come Hell or high water.

The finish is as tough and beautiful as the design itself: engraved, polished, and sealed with a rich brown steel patina.

What I make isn’t just metalwork. It’s art, forged by hand, shaped by heritage, and built to last.

Image by Eric Prouzet

(Bringin it to life)

"Cutting & Welding"

Silver, Gold, or Cold Steel

Image by Eric Prouzet

(“Final Touch”)

"Engraving - Polishing"

Time-Honored Tools, Not Machines

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