Empreita de Palma — A Traditional Portuguese Basketry Workshop

When: July 12th from 14h-18h
Where: Atelier MEL – Hive to Home

Join us for a slow afternoon of craftsmanship and tradition as we explore Empreita de Palma, an ancient basketry technique from southern Portugal.

Guided by Ysa of Atelier Balance, you'll discover how the leaves of the native dwarf palm have been transformed for generations into beautiful and practical woven objects. Together, we'll learn about the history of this remarkable craft before getting our hands busy with traditional weaving techniques.

During the workshop, you'll learn:

• The history and cultural significance of Empreita de Palma in Portugal
  
• How the dwarf palm is sustainably harvested, prepared and dried
  
• Traditional braiding and sewing techniques used to create palm basketry
  
• How to weave your own piece using natural palm fibres
• Tips for continuing the craft at home

Whether you're completely new to weaving or simply curious about traditional crafts, this workshop offers a beautiful opportunity to slow down, learn a centuries-old skill, and connect with Portugal's rich artisan heritage.

Included

• All materials
• Expert instruction from Ysa of Atelier Balance
• Tea, coffee and snacks
• Your finished woven piece to take home

About Atelier Balancê

Born in Belgium and with a background in architecture, Ysaline Ophoff decided in 2019 to dive into basket weaving techniques with local artisans in the Brazilian Amazon. More than just learning a technique, she discovered a way of living connected to nature and tradition. Basketry revealed the wisdom of the forest, artisanal skill and a sense of community.

In 2020, she moved to Portugal and founded Atelier Balancê. Applying basketry techniques to natural fibres and discarded ropes, she transforms them into new forms and objects. Atelier Balancê is a sculptural and poetic exploration that values ancestral knowledge and respect for nature.

Suitable for: Beginners (no previous experience required)

Spaces are intentionally limited to create an intimate, hands-on experience.