Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael Studebaker.
Hi Michael, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I studied at the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, focusing on Craft Metals. My original intention was to teach art someday, but when I found the Metals studio, I fell in love with the tools and processes involved. My focus shifted to learning and absorbing as much of the craft as possible. As I entered the workforce, I found that specializing in metals presented interesting opportunities to continue learning as I worked. Working as a bench jeweler, architectural fabricator, and museum mount maker all informed my relationship to the medium and understanding of the craft. I’ve always been fascinated with plasticity as a working property of metal, sometimes known as deformative manufacturing. The core offering of Studebaker Metals is an exploration of how directly manipulating metal with simple hand tools can be applied to production processes. The result is a simplicity in design with a focus on process and execution. We use techniques and technologies that have been in practice for centuries, relying on precious knowledge and practiced hands.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
LOL no. I wish. It has required near constant adaptability and reflexiveness. Our business model has had to shift with the economy several times over the years, especially as the cost of metals have become so volatile. One major instance of a hard pivot occurred towards the end of 2025. The cost of precious metals had increased so drastically and so quickly that we had to search for ways to offset the impact of a contracting consumer market for those offerings. It forced us to become reacquainted with one of our founding principals, offering precious labor applied to non-precious materials. Our business found great success early on in the fact that we were simply willing to put high value artisanal labor into products made of brass and copper. At least in the broader fashion jewelry market space, we stood out as a more approachable price point without being “cheap”. In 2026 we dove head first into learning how to work with Stainless Steel, so that we could replace the silver color option with something less expensive. We still have much to do in that realm, but I’m immensely proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish so far.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I have always felt most motivated by my relationship to the medium. and the historic context of metal craft. I let that passion guide my creative practice, with the true goal of my expression being to share that passion with others. Jewelry is a beautiful format for this exercise, as these deeply intimate, precious, and meaningful objects invite curiosity about their origin. It’s a privilege to foster that relationship with our customers, and I am delighted by the opportunity to connect and share in something that feels so meaningful.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
Absolutely, this whole venture is deeply rooted in taking the risk and believing in our ability to follow through. There are no guarantees, and no assurances. Running a business is a risk, running a creative business is even more so, especially in uncertain economic times. I cannot control the context, I can only control my own participation. I trust myself to show up and do what is necessary, I strive to project positivity, and I assume I will find success. Above all else, I’ll hold the accountability.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://studebakermetals.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studebakermetals
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/studebakermetals
