Today we’d like to introduce you to Sylvanye Roh.
Hi Sylvanye, 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?
My creative journey started long before I realized it would become a business. I’ve always been fascinated by how things are made from sewing and creating polymer clay characters in my younger years to experimenting with new materials and equipment later in life. What began as a hobby gradually turned into a passion for creating and teaching. I discovered that sharing what I knew and helping others express themselves artistically brought me just as much joy as the art itself.
That love of creativity and teaching led me to open Designs by Sylvanye Teaching Studio in Smyrna, Tennessee a space dedicated to exploring many forms of art under one roof. Over time, the studio has grown to include workshops in laser cutting and engraving, kiln-formed glass jewelry, leatherwork, metal clay, sublimation printing and more. I enjoy showing students how to use professional tools like the Glowforge laser, xTool F1 Ultra, and MicroKiln, while encouraging them to unlock their own creativity at every step.
As my work evolved, I also began designing and hand-crafting a line of wooden handbags with optional leatherwork that reflect both artistry and function. Each bag is laser-cut and hand-stitched, combining classic craftsmanship with modern technology. I’ve since developed over 30 handbags grouped into distinct collections, and looking to ’introduce them to local boutiques through my “Sylvanye Design Studio” brand.
Beyond creating, I’m deeply passionate about making creativity accessible to others. That inspired my newest program the “Creative Access Studio Pass” which allows individuals to train and then use the studio’s professional equipment at an affordable rate. It’s designed for people who want to explore laser design, glasswork, or even sublimation without having to invest in expensive equipment.
Over the years, I’ve also been fortunate to contribute to the Smyrna community through events like the Friends of Smyrna Library’s Local Authors Fair and local arts showcases, where I’ve donated personalized laser-engraved nameplates, bookmarks, t-shirts and shared workshops. I’ve met so many talented, inspiring people who remind me why I do what I do and that’s to help others see that creativity isn’t limited by age, experience, or even fear.
Today, I’m continuing to grow the studio and my online presence through a new website I’ve created using Hostinger as I work toward making my classes and designs more accessible to a wider audience. The journey has been a blend of curiosity, persistence, and faith, and I’m grateful for how far it’s come.
My goal remains the same as when I first began and that’s to encourage people to discover that creative spark within themselves and to experience the pride and peace that comes from making something uniquely their own.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Like most creative journeys, mine has had plenty of bumps along the way but every challenge has also been a lesson. When I first started Designs by Sylvanye Teaching Studio, I had to wear just about every hat there is: artist, teacher, marketer, technician, and webmaster. Learning how to balance the creative side with the business side was not always easy.
One of my biggest challenges has been keeping up with technology. I love learning new tools, but each one from laser cutters and kiln systems to website platforms and design software comes with its own steep learning curve. I’ve rebuilt my website more than once, and there were times I felt like I was learning a new language just to get my online store and workshop registrations working smoothly. But I’ve always believed that growth requires patience and persistence, and those skills have carried me through every stage.
Another struggle has been managing time especially when you’re both the maker and the teacher. Between designing new handbags, teaching multiple workshops each week, photographing products, and preparing for community events, it can feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day. I’ve learned to prioritize, delegate where I can, and remind myself that progress is progress, even if it comes one small step at a time.
And like many small business owners, I’ve faced moments of uncertainty wondering if people would respond to what I create, or if I was offering too much variety under one brand. But what’s kept me grounded is the joy I see in my students and customers when they complete something they didn’t think they could do. That moment of pride and discovery always reminds me that the road, though sometimes winding, has been absolutely worth it.
“Every obstacle has taught me something valuable, and those lessons have shaped me into the artist and teacher I am today.”
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
At its heart, my work is about creativity, teaching, and transformation. I’m the owner and senior instructor at Designs by Sylvanye Teaching Studio in Smyrna, Tennessee, where I specialize in helping people of all skill levels discover their own artistic abilities. My studio brings together several art forms laser cutting and engraving, kiln-formed glass, leatherwork, sublimation printing, metal clay jewelry and more allowing students to explore different mediums and find what speaks to them most.
I’m known for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern technology. I love taking timeless materials like glass, leather, and metal and pairing them with laser precision and contemporary design. My classes are very hands-on where students learn not only how to make something beautiful but also how to use professional-grade equipment like the Glowforge CO₂ laser, xTool F1 Ultra, and the MicroKiln safely and creatively.
I think what truly sets me apart is the teaching environment I’ve built. My classes aren’t just about following steps they’re about helping people believe they can do it. Many of my students come in thinking they aren’t artistic or that it’s “too late” to learn something new. Watching them leave with confidence, pride, and something beautiful they made themselves is the most rewarding part of my work.
Beyond teaching, I’m also a designer and maker myself. I handcraft a full collection of laser-cut, wooden and hand-stitched leather handbags under the “Sylvanye Design Studio” brand. Each piece is created with care and individuality. I’m proud of how far that line has come and even more proud to see it making its way into local boutiques.
One of my proudest professional achievements has been launching the “Creative Access Studio Pass”. This program gives trained participants affordable access to my studio’s laser, glass, and sublimation equipment so they can continue creating on their own terms. It’s my way of opening the door wider giving others the opportunity to grow creatively without the high cost of owning their own equipment.
What sets me apart isn’t just what I make, it’s the space I create for others to learn, explore, and thrive creatively. I’ve built my career around the belief that creativity lives in everyone, and I feel incredibly blessed to help people uncover that part of themselves every day.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I would say persistence and a genuine love of learning have been the keys to my success. When you work in a creative field especially one that blends art with technology things are always changing. New tools, new materials, new ways of connecting with people. I’ve had to keep an open mind and be willing to learn, even when something felt completely new or intimidating. That persistence has carried me through every challenge, from learning complex software to rebuilding my website to mastering new machines in the studio.
Equally important has been my ability to encourage and uplift others. I believe creativity flourishes in an environment of patience, positivity, and support. Whether I’m teaching a beginner who’s never used a laser cutter or mentoring someone starting their own creative business, I make it my mission to listen, guide, and celebrate their progress.
I’ve also learned that staying true to your purpose is what keeps you grounded and for me, that purpose has always been to inspire others to believe in their creative abilities and to experience the joy that comes from making something with their own hands.
So, if I had to choose one quality, I’d say it’s perseverance with heart; the combination of determination, patience, and genuine care for others that keeps me moving forward and helps those around me do the same.
Pricing:
- ✨ Sublimation Printing Workshop – Garments, Mugs & More Discover how to print vibrant, permanent images on shirts, mugs, coasters, and tote bags using sublimation inks, paper, and a heat press. Each student chooses several items to personalize and take home. Includes: 3–4 blank items and all materials. Duration: 2.5 hours Price: $65 per person
- 🔥 Microwave Kiln Jewelry & More Workshop Fuse glass, metal clay, and small ceramics right in your microwave! This workshop introduces students to the exciting world of glass fusing using a MicroKiln, perfect for pendants, earrings, and small artworks. Includes: Materials, glass, and use of kiln equipment. Duration: 2 hours Price: $75 per person
- 👜 No-Sew Leather Workshop Learn how to create beautiful leather purses, pouches, and accessories using rivets, no stitching required! Students also learn to modify SVG/PDF patterns and laser-cut their designs using a Glowforge. Includes: Leather, hardware, and laser use. Duration: 3 hours Price: $85 per person
- 🎨 Beginner Acrylic Paint Pouring Workshop Discover the magic of fluid art! Students learn color mixing, pouring techniques, and design composition to create one-of-a-kind abstract art pieces. Includes: All materials and supplies. Duration: 1.5–2 hours Price: $55 per person
- 🧩 Creative Access Studio Pass A special membership-style program for those who’ve completed training and want affordable studio access to professional tools such as the Glowforge laser, xTool F1 Ultra, MicroKiln, and sublimation presses. Includes: Equipment use, design assistance, and access to studio computers. Pricing: Studio Pass Access: Starting at $25/hour Optional training sessions available separately
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.designsbysylvanye.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designsbysylvanye
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DesignsbySylvanye/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylvanyeroh/
