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CERAMIC WORKSHOP – Working with Clay and Decoration Techniques
Creative Ceramic Workshops in Guardiagrele, Abruzzo – Discover, Design & Decorate
Join us in the hilltop town of Guardiagrele (CH), Abruzzo — famed for its deep artisanal roots, historic metalwork, and spectacular mountain views — for a series of hands-on ceramic workshops. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a creative soul looking to explore Italian craft, these experiences will immerse you in both tradition and inspiration.
Each Tuesday workshop begins with a gentle inspirational walk through Guardiagrele’s charming lanes, discovering hidden gems and local curiosities. We’ll pause for a delicious traditional Abruzzese pastry and coffee as you sketch ideas and plan your design. Then it’s off to the studio with ceramicist Stefania Santone, where you’ll learn techniques and bring your piece to life.
Your handcrafted piece will be ready for pickup the following Saturday. Some workshops focus on decoration only, while others take place in two parts, beginning with shaping the clay and finishing with your personal design.
🌿 Workshop 1: Tile or Plate Shaping with Clay – “Foggiatura a Lastra”
Date: Tuesday, 13 May, 9:30 AM
Duration: 2h30m–3h (plus optional second session)
Cost: €70 per person (Part 1) — Add a decoration workshop from €65
Create your own ceramic tile or plate from scratch.
Learn the technique of “Foggiatura a Lastra,” shaping clay using your hands and a wire tool called an arpa. Roll and press the clay into form, setting the foundation for a decorative masterpiece.
Includes:
- Guided inspirational walk
- Coffee and a traditional Abruzzese pastry
- Clay-shaping technique and expert tuition
- Follow-up decoration session (optional)
🌿 Workshop 2: Traditional Abruzzese Tile or Plate Decoration
Date: Tuesday, 27 May, 9:30 AM
Duration: 2 h30 m–3h
Cost: €65 per person
Decorate a ceramic tile or plate with traditional or custom motifs.
Choose between timeless Abruzzese designs such as floral patterns or the symbolic Presentosa, or create your own from walk-inspired sketches. A beautiful intro to ceramic artistry.
Includes:
- Guided inspirational walk
- Coffee and a traditional pastry
- Hands-on decoration tutorial
🌿 Workshop 3: Coiled Clay Sculptures – “Foggiatura a Colombino”
Date: Tuesday, 3 June, 9:30 AM
Duration: 2h30m–3h (plus optional second session)
Cost: €70 per person (Part 1) — Add a decoration workshop from €65
Discover the ancient coiling method known as “Colombino”.
Form elegant vessels or sculptural pieces using thin, snake-like coils of clay called serpentelli. Ideal for creating vases, abstract forms, or hand-built pots.
Includes:
- Inspirational walk through Guardiagrele
- Coffee and pastry
- Coil-building techniques and expert guidance
- Optional follow-up decoration workshop
🌿 Workshop 4: Curved Object Decoration
Date: Tuesday, 10 June, 9:30 AM
Duration: 2 h30 m–3h
Cost: €65 per person
Decorate curved ceramics such as cups, mugs, or oil decanters.
Learn to work with curved forms and gain tips on adapting your design to rounded surfaces.
Includes:
- Inspirational walk
- Coffee & traditional pastry
- Professional instruction on curved object painting
🌿 Workshop 5: Painting Landscapes & Centrepieces
Date: Tuesday, 24 June, 9:30 AM
Duration: 2h30m–3h
Cost: €75 per person
Create a decorative centrepiece or plate featuring Abruzzo’s landscapes or symbols.
Paint Trabocchi fishing huts, rustic mountain scenes, or your own inspired composition onto a stunning table centrepiece or large plate.
Includes:
- Guided walk for artistic inspiration
- Coffee & traditional local treat
- Advanced decoration and design session