Learn Silversmithing on the Beautiful Oregon Coast
SilverSmithingClass.com is Oregon’s dedicated silversmithing school, located at Saunders Lake in North Bend — right on the southern Oregon Coast between Coos Bay and Bandon. Whether you’re driving down from Portland, flying into Eugene, or coming from anywhere in the state, our classes turn a weekend trip into a creative getaway you’ll never forget.
Unlike multi-week evening classes at community colleges or art centers, our workshops are designed to get you making real silver jewelry fast. You’ll walk in on Saturday morning with zero experience and walk out Sunday afternoon with finished pieces you made with your own hands — pendants, rings, bracelets, or earrings depending on the class you choose.
Classes We Offer
Beginning Silversmithing — 2 Days ($399)
Our most popular class. In just 12 hours over two days, you’ll learn silver soldering, bezel setting, stone mounting, and polishing. You’ll leave with a finished sterling silver pendant and the skills to keep creating at home. No experience needed — we provide all tools during class. Full details and registration →
Intermediate Rings & Bracelets — 2 Days ($399)
Ready to go beyond pendants? Create an interchangeable bracelet with a stepped bezel-mounted cabochon and a double split band ring. This class builds on beginning techniques with more advanced soldering and forming. Full details and registration →
5-Day Bracelet Retreat — All-Inclusive ($3,499)
Our signature experience. Spend five days at our lakeside studio creating four unique bracelets using techniques like cuttlefish bone casting, straw casting, and freeform wire work. The price includes lodging, meals, transportation, and a complete tool set to take home — over $1,050 in value before you even start creating. Full details and registration →
Hammered Silver Earrings — 4 Hours
A quick introduction to working with silver. Learn texturing techniques with chasing and texturing hammers, and go home with four pairs of fine silver earrings plus handmade sterling ear wires. Perfect if you want to try silversmithing before committing to a full weekend. Full details and registration →
Online Streaming — 21 Hours, Your Schedule
Can’t make it to the coast? Our complete video series covers everything from the beginning class through intermediate rings and bracelets. Stream on any device, pause and rewind as needed. Available with or without a tool kit shipped to your door. Full details and packages →
Why Students Travel Across Oregon for Our Classes
We’ve had students drive from Portland, Eugene, Bend, Medford, Salem, and every corner of the state. Here’s why they make the trip instead of taking a local class:
You leave with finished jewelry, not just skills. Most community college metalsmithing programs take weeks of evening sessions before you complete a project. In our 2-day class, you’re soldering silver on day one and polishing your finished pendant on day two.
Class size is limited to 5–6 students. This isn’t a lecture hall. David Lee Smith works with you one-on-one throughout the class, adjusting his teaching to your pace. When you get stuck, he’s right there.
All tools are provided. You don’t need to buy anything before you arrive. We provide professional-grade silversmithing tools during class, and our retreat students take home a complete tool set worth over $500.
35+ years of teaching experience. David has taught thousands of students, invented patented silversmithing tools (the Spider Hold Down, Bail Perfect Centering Tool, and Lazy Sue SolderNBoard), and is a member of the Society of American Silversmiths. He’s refined his teaching method to make silversmithing accessible to complete beginners.
It’s a getaway, not a commute. The Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the country. Students regularly combine their class with a few extra days exploring lighthouses, sand dunes, seafood restaurants, and coastal hikes. It’s a creative vacation.
Getting Here from Anywhere in Oregon
From Portland (4 hours)
Take I-5 south to Eugene, then Highway 126 west to Florence, then Highway 101 south to North Bend. The last two hours are the scenic coastal stretch — dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, and ocean views the whole way. Many students say the drive is half the experience.
From Eugene (2 hours)
The closest city with a commercial airport. Take Highway 126 west through the coastal mountains to Florence, then south on 101. Some students fly into Eugene (EUG), rent a car, and explore the coast on the way down. Flights to Eugene are typically Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.
From Bend (4 hours)
Take Highway 97 south to Highway 58 west through Oakridge, connect to I-5 south briefly, then Highway 38 west through Reedsport to Highway 101 south. A beautiful drive through old-growth forest and the Umpqua River valley.
From Medford / Southern Oregon (3 hours)
Take I-5 north to Roseburg, then Highway 42 west directly to Coos Bay and North Bend. The most direct route from southern Oregon.
By Air
Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH) is right in North Bend — just 15 minutes from our studio. Eugene Airport (EUG) is 2 hours north. Portland International (PDX) is 4 hours north but has the best flight connections from out of state.
For lodging recommendations, local restaurants, and things to do while you’re here, visit our Planning Your Trip page.
What Students Are Saying
“I wanted to let you know how thankful I am that I took your Beginning Silversmithing class. Because of your two-day class I’ve been able to make some pretty cool stuff. It’s overwhelming how much people love it and want to buy pieces from me. I won 1st place in the Cherokee Nation Trail of Tears Art Show. I’m still amazed at how one weekend learning from you has changed my life.” — Tyran C.
“This was the greatest class and instructor EVER! Dave is a great teacher. The class was nonstop education. Never did I feel rushed or bogged down. Dave took a great amount of time individually helping each of us.” — Miranda A.
Read more student reviews and watch video testimonials →
Ready to Start?
Most students begin with our Beginning Silversmithing weekend class. No experience required, all tools provided, and you’ll go home with finished silver jewelry and the skills to keep creating.
Don’t see a class date that works? Subscribe to our schedule list and we’ll notify you when new dates are posted.
Questions? Call Dave at 916-548-7361 or email Dave@SilverSmithingClass.com.