About Slate Smithery

Hi! I’m Dani.

I’m a self-taught silversmith who fell in love with the craft over a decade ago. Watching my grandfather make jewelry when I was young always stayed with me — the glow of the torch, the smell of the shop, the quiet patience behind every piece. Those memories planted something deep inside me, something that never faded.

I’ve been a silversmith for ten years, running my own business for eight, and teaching for almost three. In the beginning, I had no formal training — only determination and an endless desire to learn. I spent years at my bench experimenting, failing, and trying again. It took a long time before I felt comfortable even calling myself a silversmith, and even now, I hold that title with reverence. To me, it’s something that’s earned — through time, discipline, and heart.

Though I never learned directly from my grandfather, both his legacy and that of my father and mother shaped everything I do. Each time I light my torch or hold a finished piece in my hand, I feel that connection — a quiet reminder of why I started and who I want to be.

For me, this work has never been about money. Yes, it’s my livelihood, but it’s also my soul, my passion, and my life’s purpose. I bleed fire and metal. Silversmithing is the only thing that’s ever fully captured me — the only thing that’s made me sit still and listen. It’s brought me to tears in frustration and in joy. It’s challenged me, humbled me, and healed me. It’s the truest expression of who I am to my core.

When I finally felt ready — worthy — to teach this timeless craft, I wanted to do it with the same openness I once searched for. I wanted to do this craft justice and not take it for granted. I owe so much to my friend Jeremy and to my local tech college, PTC, for believing in me and giving me that first opportunity to teach and build a program for silversmithing. That moment lit a spark that helped me believe in myself.

Now, after ten years of dedication, learning, and teaching, I founded The Slate Smithery – School of Silversmithing: to share that same magic with others. Here, students of all levels learn to shape silver with respect for tradition and a spirit of creativity — keeping the ancient language of fire and metal alive.

This isn’t just a milestone for me.
It’s the realization of a dream — my life’s work, forged in fire, patience, and love.

I hope you’ll join me and let me guide you on your creative journey, just as you help me continue turning my dream into reality.

All my love,
Dani