Weldon is a third-generation artist/craftsman using the most straightforward tools, a hammer & chisel, to engrave the most intricate and beautiful details in steel, gold, silver, and bronze.

In 1979 at age 17, he began apprenticeship training under the watchful eye of his father, Master engraver W.E. “Bill” Lister, who apprenticed under his uncle, Austin Lee Lister, in the late 1940s. 

In addition to engraving firearms, knives, custom-made belt buckles, jewelry, and musical instruments, Weldon is an accomplished (though not overly prolific) knife maker, preferring to make lock-blade, folding knives.  Using the “stock removal” method of knife making, Weldon’s knives are a functional tool and serve as a custom “palette” upon which to display his art.