Thread by Thread – A Unique Bobbin Lace Retreat in Milazzo
Bobbin lace is more than an ancient weaving technique—it is a living art form, woven with history, craftsmanship, and elegance. Originally crafted in monasteries and noble households, Sicilian bobbin lace flourished in the 18th and 19th centuries, evolving into an intricate and highly prized textile art.
Today, in the seaside town of Milazzo, within a charming historic hamlet, you have the rare opportunity to immerse yourself in this delicate and meditative craft. Under the expert guidance of master artisans Santina Morreale and Mattea Stagno, this five-day retreat will teach you the fundamentals of lace-making, while inspiring you to integrate this timeless technique into contemporary design.
Bobbin lace is experiencing a modern renaissance, influencing high fashion, luxury home décor, and contemporary artistic creations—as seen in Dior’s couture collections and other luxury brands..
Who Is This Retreat For?
This retreat welcomes anyone eager to explore bobbin lace, whether for personal expression, artistic exploration, or contemporary fashion applications. It is ideal for:
- Curious Beginners – No prior experience? No problem! We will guide you step by step through the fundamentals.
- Craft Enthusiasts – If you love working with your hands, bobbin lace is a beautiful and intricate skill to add to your repertoire.
- Fashion & Textile Designers – Learn how to incorporate lace into modern clothing, accessories, and high-end designs.
- Artists & Creatives – Experiment with lace-making as a medium for installations, mixed-media projects, and contemporary art.
What You Will Learn
- The Foundations of Bobbin Lace – Explore the history, significance, and techniques of Sicilian lace-making.
- Essential Bobbin Lace Techniques – Master key stitches, including warp stitches, curves, and bars, essential for intricate lace patterns.
- Precision & Decorative Finishing – Learn how to attach lace to fabric for a flawless, professional finish.
- Creative Expression – Design and develop your own lace-based accessory, with expert guidance.
- Modern Applications of Bobbin Lace – Discover how lace is reinvented in contemporary fashion, home décor, and art.
Why Join This Retreat?
✔ Learn from Master Artisans – Study with two expert lace artists dedicated to preserving and modernizing this craft.
✔ Hands-on Experience – A structured yet flexible workshop format, where you’ll create your own lace accessory by the end of the retreat.
✔ Immerse Yourself in Sicilian Culture – Experience a creative retreat in a historic hamlet, home to our Creative Italy School, where tradition meets contemporary craftsmanship.
5-Day Bobbin Lace Retreat in Milazzo
- Daily Schedule:
- Morning Sessions (3 hours/day) – Hands-on lace-making workshops with expert instruction.
- Creative Studio Time – Practice and develop your lace project.
- Optional Cultural Activities – Explore Milazzo’s artistic heritage, architecture, and stunning seaside landscapes.
- Location: Milazzo, Sicily
- Duration: 5 days
- Cost: from €1950 per person
What’s Included?
- ✔ Five nights’ accommodation in a charming B&B in Milazzo.
- ✔ Daily breakfast to start your mornings energised.
- ✔ Five days of workshops, with all materials provided.
- ✔ A handcrafted bobbin, made by an artisan, to take home and continue your practice.
- ✔ A personalised learning experience, adapted to your skill level and creative goals.
- Optional Add-Ons: Transportation & additional guided tours are available upon request
- Flexible Start Dates: Customized upon request.
Our Commitment – Create, Innovate, Preserve
At Creative Italy, we are dedicated to preserving and promoting local craftsmanship. By working with renowned artisans, our courses go beyond skill-building—they actively contribute to the cultural and economic vitality of the region, while training a new generation of artisans and artists for the 21st century.
