Lisbon: Azulejos’ Design Create Your Own Tile Workshop

If you’re exploring Lisbon and looking for a hands-on activity that combines artistry, local culture, and a dash of fun, the Create Your Own Tile Workshop offers an engaging way to connect with Portugal’s iconic decorative style. This experience, offered by Azulejos’design, invites you to unleash your creativity while learning about the traditional art of azulejos—those beautifully glazed ceramic tiles that adorn so many buildings across Lisbon.

We love the friendly, small-group setting—limiting the class to just six participants—making it a very personal, relaxed experience. The Formettes drawing method is particularly appealing because it removes the need for any prior artistic skill, making it accessible to everyone. Plus, you’ll leave with a custom-made tile that’s ready to take home as a unique souvenir.

One consideration is the location: the workshop takes place in the instructor’s apartment, meaning a bit of navigation and a buzz-in system are involved. But many find that part of the charm, especially as it enhances the intimate, homey vibe.

This experience is especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy creative activities, want to deepen their appreciation for Portuguese culture, or are hunting for a meaningful keepsake. It’s an ideal choice for those who want more than just sightseeing—something that’s memorable and personal.

Key Points

• Accessible Creativity: No prior drawing skills needed thanks to the Formettes method.
• Immediate Keepsake: Walk away with your personalized 10cm x 10cm tile right after the workshop.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 6 participants for a personalized experience.
• All-Inclusive: Drawing, painting materials, drinks, and cookies are provided.
• Flexible & Convenient: Book now, pay later, with options for cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand.
• Authentic Approach: The host’s welcoming attitude and the workshop’s home setting create a warm, genuine vibe.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: An Artistic Dive into Lisbon’s Azulejos

Imagine spending a couple of hours in a quaint Lisbon apartment, surrounded by the warm smell of watercolor paints and the gentle hum of creative activity. That’s the vibe you get from the Create Your Own Tile Workshop—an activity that turns a simple souvenir into a personalized piece of art that reflects your style and Lisbon’s charm.

This workshop is especially appealing because it emphasizes fun and accessibility. You don’t need to be an artist; with guidance from friendly instructors, you’ll find yourself sketching, coloring, and working on a design that’s uniquely yours. The Formettes drawing method is designed to make the process easy and engaging, encouraging even the most hesitant artist to create something beautiful.

While the workshop is highly praised for its friendly guidance and quality materials, it’s worth noting that the location might require some effort to find, as it takes place in the host’s home. Still, many see this as part of the authentic experience—meeting a local artist in her studio rather than a large, impersonal classroom.

If you enjoy arts and crafts, cultural experiences, or want a creative activity that produces a tangible memory, this workshop will likely suit you well. It’s not just about making a tile; it’s about making a personal connection with Lisbon’s vibrant tile tradition.

The Itinerary and What to Expect

The workshop is a well-structured 2.5-hour session, designed to be both informative and fun. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

Introduction & Cultural Context

Your experience begins with a short presentation explaining the history and significance of azulejos in Lisbon. This sets the scene and helps you appreciate the cultural importance of these decorative tiles, which have been a part of Portuguese architecture for centuries.

Hands-On Design with Formettes

Next, you’ll be introduced to the Formettes drawing tool. This innovative technique makes designing your tile straightforward, regardless of artistic experience. The process involves:

• Drawing your pattern with pencil—but don’t worry, it’s simple and guided.
• Inking your lines with a fine black marker, then erasing the pencil to keep the design clean.
• Coloring your design with watercolor paints, adding vibrancy and personality.

The instructor’s role is to support and encourage your creativity, helping you navigate the process and offering ideas along the way.

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Digital & Transfer Process

Once your design is complete, it’s digitally scanned and slightly corrected in Photoshop if needed. Then, the design is multiplied and transferred onto a ceramic tile measuring 10cm x 10cm using a thermal press. This part is fascinating because it turns your digital creation into a durable, ceramic masterpiece.

Final Touch & Takeaway

You’ll leave with your finished tile—a personalized piece of Lisbon that can be used as a coaster, wall decoration, or gift. Many reviews highlight how proud participants feel when holding their unique creation, and several mention how the entire process is surprisingly relaxing and enjoyable.

The Experience: Authentic, Fun, and Educational

Reviews consistently praise the workshop for its welcoming atmosphere and expert guidance. Guests comment on how Agathe, the host, balances instruction with encouragement, making even those with limited artistic skills feel confident. One reviewer noted, “Agathe made the experience enjoyable by guiding us but allowing us to also use our creativity,” which sums up the vibe perfectly.

Participants have also appreciated the small-group setting, which means personalized attention. As one review states, “Due to the small group size, everybody was able to finish their tile and got a very great personal souvenir.” This attention to detail is part of what makes the experience memorable.

The workshop’s location, in a charming apartment, adds to the intimate, homey feel. Although navigating the building and locating the entry point may require some patience, many find that this personal touch makes the activity feel authentic rather than commercial.

The Creative Process

The step-by-step approach—drawing, inking, erasing, coloring—ensures that everyone, regardless of skill level, can produce something attractive. Multiple reviews emphasize how the process is engaging and low-stress, with instructors readily offering ideas and support.

Several guests mention how quickly the process moves, with the tiles ready right at the end. One reviewer shared, “The quick heating process was extremely convenient,” allowing for a smooth and efficient experience without long waits or complicated procedures.

Quality and Value

At $63 per person, the workshop is a solid investment for those interested in a cultural, artistic, and memorable activity. When you consider that you leave with a durable, handcrafted tile, it’s clear that you’re paying for a personalized souvenir, not just a class.

Many reviews highlight the value for money, especially given the friendly guidance, all materials, drinks, cookies, and the personal touch of working in a local artist’s space. Some found the experience so enjoyable that they would happily do it again or recommend it to friends.

Who Will Love This?

This workshop appeals to a broad range of travelers. Art enthusiasts, families with children over 10, couples seeking a romantic activity, or solo adventurers wanting a meaningful keepsake will find something to enjoy here. It’s especially suited for those who want to create something tangible and personal during their trip.

If you’re traveling with children, note that it’s not suitable for kids under 10, but beyond that, it’s a flexible activity that fits well into a day of sightseeing or cultural exploration.

Practical Tips

• Location & Navigation: The workshop starts at Bell N° 2, in the instructor’s apartment. Expect to buzz yourself in, which adds a bit of adventure.
• Timing & Booking: Check availability for the 2.5-hour sessions; they have different start times throughout the day.
• Language: The instructor speaks French, English, and Portuguese, making communication easy for most travelers.
• Reservations & Cancellations: You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, and booking is flexible with “reserve now, pay later” options.
• Materials & Included Items: All drawing and painting supplies are provided, along with tea, coffee, and cookies to keep your energy up.
• Additional Items: Extra tiles or personalized objects are not included but could be a future consideration if you want more than one piece.

FAQs

Is prior artistic skill required? No, the Formettes method makes designing easy and accessible for everyone, regardless of artistic ability.

How long does the workshop last? It’s approximately 2.5 hours, giving enough time to learn, design, and complete your tile.

Will I leave with my tile? Yes, you will take home your 10cm x 10cm ceramic tile immediately after the session.

Is the location easy to find? It’s in the second floor of an apartment building, and you will need to buzz yourself in. Some find this a minor inconvenience but part of the authentic experience.

What languages are spoken? The instructor can communicate in French, English, and Portuguese.

Can I cancel my booking? Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this activity suitable for children? Not for children under 10, but older kids and teens often enjoy the creative process.

What is included in the price? Drawing and painting materials, instructor guidance, drinks, cookies, and your finished tile.

Are additional tiles available? Not in this workshop, but you might consider bringing up the idea if you’re interested in more souvenirs.

Can I customize my design? Absolutely, the process encourages your creativity, and many reviews mention how they personalized their tiles with unique designs.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This?

This create-your-own tile workshop offers a charming, hands-on way to connect with Lisbon’s famous azulejos tradition. It’s an excellent option for travelers seeking a memorable, personal souvenir that goes beyond standard gifts. The small-group setting, expert guidance, and immediate take-home result make it a standout activity, especially for those who enjoy arts and crafts.

It’s particularly suited for people who appreciate creative experiences, cultural insights, and authentic local interactions. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo and want a meaningful activity that combines learning, fun, and a lasting reminder of your Lisbon trip, this workshop is hard to beat.

While the location might pose a slight challenge at first, many find the personal touch of working in a local artist’s space well worth a little extra effort. This activity offers excellent value, a chance to create something beautiful, and a deeper appreciation for Portugal’s ceramic art.

In summary, if you’re looking for an engaging and authentic way to craft a piece of Lisbon that’s uniquely yours, this workshop is a top choice. It’s a relaxed, friendly environment where creativity flourishes, and the memories—and the tiles—will last long after your trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: