STORY BY BENJAMIN LERNER PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY DANFORTH PEWTER
Danforth Pewter :
Forging Ahead
Watching one of Danforth Pewter ’ s seasoned artisans gracefully shape the sides of their
signature oil lamps is a unique and captivating experience . As a scintillating pewter disc spins rapidly on a lathe , a master smith forms elegant curves in the surface by applying pressure with a metal shaping tool . Though the fluid and steady movements that mold the curvature in the metal might appear effortless and uncomplicated to a casual observer , it takes years of training to master the finer points of this elaborate process .
By applying the same patience and dedication required to sculpt the contours of their oil lamps towards the development of new product lines and environmentally sustainable production methods , Danforth Pewter has been able to successfully grow their business and branch out into new and exciting markets . As they forge a bold new path forward , they have combined cutting-edge technology with traditional craft practices to create timelessly distinctive pieces that are both durable and stylish . By holding fast to the honest , hard-working values that have defined their brand since its earliest days , they have distinguished themselves from industry competitors - and garnered a dedicated commercial following in the process .
According to Vice President of Marketing Sarah Dunn , one of the reasons for Danforth Pewter ’ s continued success has been their continual commitment to transparency regarding their manufacturing methods . Dunn says that “ many consumers are often forced to buy products without knowing the exact details of how they ’ re made . If you come to the Danforth Pewter workshop in Middlebury , you can actually watch our products being made through the windows . You can get a real-time look at how our process works from start to finish . It ’ s amazing to be able to see the amount of attention and detail that goes into each one of our pieces . Here at Danforth , we ’ re proud of our products . We want people to know about the hard work that goes into making each and every one of them . It ’ s a very human and personalized process . Each piece is touched by many hands before it ’ s finished .”
Danforth Pewter ’ s uncompromising passion for refined and detailed metalwork is artfully manifested through their broad array of exquisitely crafted offerings . From necklaces and bracelets to tasteful drinkware and home decor , Danforth ’ s skilled craftspeople take full advantage of pewter ’ s versatile and malleable nature to express themselves artistically . According to Dunn , one of the more popular services that Danforth Pewter offers allows their customers to express their creative instincts as well .
She explains that “ many of our customers like to personalize their products with customized engravings . Our custom-engraved products are incredibly popular for weddings and baby showers , as well as holidays . People love to engrave their names on their Christmas ornaments , or write a message to remember a special occasion . A lot of people purchase personalized ornaments to commemorate significant events or family trips .
10 VERMONT MAGAZINE