Our Story
All true beauty has the power to draw us closer to Christ. In my own life, the beauty found in the liturgical life of the Orthodox Church was a major inspiration.
I grew up enjoying working with my hands and, after college, spent time in different construction trades. Though I enjoyed the work, I desired to shift my energy to serving the needs of the Church. I spent time developing my skills as a woodcarver and, by God’s grace, I was given the opportunity to study iconography at St. Tikhon’s Monastery where I studied under Anton and Ekaterina Daineko for two and a half years.
After my time at St. Tikhon’s, I founded Saint Paisios Studio to merge my love of woodworking and iconography with my desire to serve the Church. I specialize in custom liturgical furniture and iconography focusing on designs that integrate traditional and local aesthetics.
I strive for authenticity in all aspects of construction and design. As a rule, I work with solid lumber and traditional materials rather than cost effective substitutes, though I approach the unique needs of every parish and individual on a case by case basis.
When I am not in the shop, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Jill, and chanting for Annunciation, our home parish here in Lancaster. Through the work of Saint Paisios Studio, we hope to inspire you towards a deeper life in Christ.
In Christ,
Daniel Blain
Our Patron, St. Paisios
Saint Paisios is a beloved modern Saint who lived primarily on Mount Athos and reposed in 1992. He worked as a carpenter before he became a monk and throughout his monastic life he supported himself with carpentry and handicrafts.
Saint Paisios lived a simple life devoted to God. He emphasized philotimo (eager goodness, noble love) along with hard work and simplicity. We look to him as our protector and inspiration to live out our calling as craftsmen in the service of Christ.