Husband and wife artists Nick and Francesca Watson opened The Makery in January 2016 in a historic building in the Old Village of Downtown Bulverde. Originally the site of the local nine-pin bowling alley, the building served as a center of community gathering over many decades, including a long stretch as a local antique shop. The studio quickly became known for its all-inclusive workshops and retreats, featuring well-known and emerging instructors from across the country, and for being a welcoming, non-political environment for makers of all levels to learn and connect with one another.

In 2023, The Makery suffered a catastrophic electrical fire which destroyed the building and took the life of its shop cat and mascot, Sterling. The international jewelry-making community rallied and, together with local vendors and suppliers, raised funds and made donations of time and services to rebuild the studio in its new location, fondly called The Barn. In addition to serving as working studio space for both Nick and Francesca, the studio continues to host regular metalsmithing workshops and special events with Francesca and guest instructors from across the country. The property is also the site of the twice-monthly Bulverde Market Days, featuring handmade goods, food trucks, and local vendors. And each year, the studio hosts a free Holiday Open House, a day-long celebration of all things creative with live demonstrations, a high-end stone sale, and industry vendors introducing some of their newest tools and equipment.