Azulejo Painting Workshop | Nair Esteves Ribeiro

Azulejo painting workshop in Coimbra with Nair Esteves Ribeiro, a two-hour hands-on session where you learn the basic techniques of traditional Portuguese tile painting and create your own unique 14x14cm azulejo to take home. Inspired by the classic patterns of Lisbon, Sintra and Porto, this is a genuinely authentic creative experience in one of Portugal’s most historic cities, perfect for beginners, families with children aged 10 and over and anyone curious about the history and soul of Portuguese decorative art. All materials included, a welcome coffee, tea and pastel de nata provided and no prior experience needed.

The session moves through the full azulejo painting process step by step. Nair introduces the history and symbolism of Portuguese azulejos before guiding you through sketching techniques and pattern transfer, applying ceramic glazes and controlling tones and the finishing and preservation tips that ensure your tile lasts. A printed guide with traditional patterns is provided for inspiration alongside all the materials you need for the session. The tile requires 24 to 48 hours to dry completely after the workshop. Free shipping to addresses within Portugal is included, or you can collect your tile in person after three days. A digital certificate of participation is also provided.

What you’ll learn

🔵 The history, symbolism and cultural significance of Portuguese azulejos

🔵 Sketching techniques and pattern transfer for a clean and confident tile design

🔵 How to apply ceramic glazes and control tones for different effects

🔵 Finishing and preservation tips to ensure your tile lasts and displays beautifully

🔵 The traditional patterns of Lisbon, Sintra and Porto that have defined this art form for centuries

What’s included

🎨 One white 14x14cm tile to paint

🎨 All materials including brushes, ceramic glazes, pencils and tracing paper

🎨 Disposable apron and workspace protection

🎨 Printed guide with traditional patterns for inspiration

🎨 Digital certificate of participation

🎨 Welcome coffee, tea and a pastel de nata

🎨 Free shipping to addresses within Portugal or in-person collection after three days

What you leave with

A hand-painted azulejo tile made entirely by you, a digital certificate of participation and a lasting and genuinely personal memory of Portuguese culture and craft from Coimbra.

I am Nair Esteves Ribeiro, passionate about Portuguese culture, creativity and the traditional art of azulejo painting. Through my workshops I love sharing the beauty and history of this unique artistic tradition with people from all over the world. For me azulejos are more than decorative tiles. They are part of Portugal’s identity, history and soul, and my goal is to offer authentic and memorable moments where art, culture and connection come together.

Duration two hours. Takes place in Coimbra. Open to beginners and families with children aged 10 and over accompanied by an adult. All materials and welcome snack included. Free shipping within Portugal.