Accueil The Mag Artisanal crafts and visits to workshops in the Loire Valley
How about discovering the Loire Valley through its crafts? Push open the doors of renowned workshops, where talented men and women are perpetuating local know-how which is recognised the world over. Basketry, earthenware, pottery… Immerse yourself in these historic sites and observe the beauty of the craft. Who knows, maybe you’ll want to try your hand at one of these techniques on an introductory course!
F. Charel CRT Centre Val de Loire
Basketry workshop in Villaines-les-Rochers
J.C Coutand – ADT Touraine
Set in a troglodye site that has been dedicated to basket-making for 170 years, the Villaines-les-Rochers Cooperative de Vannerie brings together the invaluable skills of 50 basket-makers. Among them are 25 wickerworkers who grow their own wicker, guaranteeing the highest quality from an ultra-local raw material. The cooperative also organises 3 or 5-day courses to give members of the public the chance to discover basket-making first-hand. If you’ve always wanted to make your own personalised basket, now’s the time to get started!
A fascinating visit to the Gien earthenware factory
Two hundred years of expertise, distinctive earthenware and a brand-new museum… Welcome to the Faïencerie de Gien! In the heart of the Loire Valley, this emblematic French manufacturer, which has the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant (Living Heritage Enterprise) certification, has been flying the flag for excellence since 1821. To find out more about how the famous earthenware is made, visit the Faïencerie de Gien museum and shop. You will be able to admire some truly beautiful creations, from decorative tableware to the legendary tiles of the Paris metro!
F. Charel – CRT Centre-Val de Loire
Workshops and courses at the La Borne contemporary ceramics centre
CCCLB
Shape, turn, glaze and start again. A practice well known in La Borne, one of France’s leading pottery villages! As a production, distribution and exhibition centre, the Contemporary Ceramics Centre in La Borne is dedicated to sharing this exceptional heritage and international ceramic culture. Experience the infinite possibilities of pottery for yourself at the various workshops and courses organised by the centre. Get your hands dirty and let your creativity flow! Enjoy it with family and friends.
Introduction to stained glass in Chartres
At the foot of Chartres Cathedral, enter the fascinating world of glass at the International Stained-Glass Centre in Vitrail. Take the time to visit the stained glass museum, which houses a sublime collection of ancient and contemporary glass in a remarkable setting. The museum’s workshop will show you the traditional techniques, tools and gestures of stained glass artists. And if you’re keen to learn, the professional training centre next door offers introductory courses in stained glass throughout the year. It’s a great way to find out more about this incredible material!
Lezbroz – Teddy Verneuil
Thematics
