🪡 Discover authentic embroidery techniques and every stage of the process, from pattern transfer to the final finishing touches, guided by experienced embroiderers.
Madeira Embroidery is an integral part of the island’s history and cultural heritage. Every stitch carries its own secrets, artistry, and technique. Through the repeated movement of needle and thread across fine fabrics, and with the help of patient and passionate hands, timeless works of art are created. Throughout the workshop, participants are accompanied by an embroiderer and a multilingual staff member. The workshop is divided into four stages: Stage 1 – Design Participants receive an introduction to the design process. Each guest is provided with a kit containing a handkerchief with the "filitro" already prepared, threads, a needle, and a photocopy of the finished piece. Stage 2 – Pricking and Pattern Transfer Participants prick and transfer the design onto their handkerchief. Stage 3 – Embroidery Guests learn and practice embroidery stitches on part of the handkerchief. They are taught one example of each stitch, enabling them to complete the embroidery independently later. This stage is supervised by the guide and one or two embroiderers. Stage 4 – Washing, Ironing and Cutting An explanation is provided on how these finishing processes are carried out. At the end of the workshop, participants receive a Certificate of Participation and take home the pricked pattern, a pricking cushion and pin, the handkerchief, needle, and threads.
Duration: 1H30
Guide Certificate of Participation Embroidery kit (fabric, needle and threads)
Meeting point at Meeting Point at BORDAL BORDADOS DA MADEIRA - Rua Dr. Fernão de Ornelas, 77 / 9000-021 Funchal
An excellent experience, combining the practical aspect of learning Madeiran embroidery from a master, and the historical aspect of learning about and seeing behind the scenes at a truly unique workshop. I would recommend this to anyone, whether they have any experience in sewing or not. Definitely the highlight of my visit to Madeira!
Mir hat der Workshop sehr gut gefallen. Aus eigener Erfahrung kann Frau die Mühe und Präzision sehen die in den einzelnen decken steckt. Vielen Dank Marion Klemme
An excellent and thoroughly enjoyable experience. Would highly recommend to anyone who loves embroidery
My daughter and I had an amazing and unique experience at Bordal. We were well looked after, everything explained to us in English and we felt very welcome. We loved the embroidery workshop - the ladies showing us their craft were patient and kind. We have learned new embroidery techniques (which we will put into practice) and we have a new appreciation of what it takes to create such beautiful embroidery. Booking the experience itself was easy and we were kept well informed of where to meet and what we should expect.
Activity dependant on availability confirmation. If it is unavailable, customer will be contacted with an alternative option.
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