Beginner Courses in Traditional Crafts

Conscious of the importance of keeping crafts alive, particularly the traditional ones that are an integral part of local culture, heritage, and national identity, the Malta Crafts Foundation is offering Beginner Courses in Crafts for adults, youths, and children.

With a growing appreciation of handmade products within the local market, the courses offer an opportunity to learn the basics of some of Malta’s most popular crafts, with the possibility of bringing in an element of innovation as a new artisan.

Following their successful launch in 2024, a new intake is being planned to start during the first week of April 2025.

Applications must be submitted through this form by not later than Friday, 21st March, 2025.

Please register for your preferred course/s. The craft being instructed, the level of difficulty, as well as the schedule and method of delivery varies from one session to another, depending on what the different artisans are offering in their courses and/or workshops.

The availability of these courses is subject to a minimum number of participants, which varies from craft to craft. In case the minimum requirement is not met, the Malta Crafts Foundation reserves the right to cancel, reschedule, or merge sessions to ensure the courses can be delivered effectively. Participants will be notified of any such changes in a timely manner.

A new intake is being planned for summer, including a wider selection of courses specifically for children in view of their holidays.

Course Code: BEA01

Type of Session:
Course – Adults

Artisan:
Jacqueline Fava

Description:
Students will learn basic stitches, create decorative and functional items, and work on beading projects.

Minimum number of Students:
9 students

Maximum number of Students:
15 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
8 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
50 euro (excluding cost of materials)

Course Code: CER01

Type of Session:
Course – Adults
Course – Adults + Children

Artisan:
ALKA Ceramics

Description:
Students will obtain basic skills in ceramics. Younger students will be guided to handle clay and express their own creativity; whereas older ones will be taught various techniques, including both hand building, as well as using moulds and casting. All students will also hand paint and glaze their works, and learn about the different types of firings used.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
15 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
5 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
1 hour

Venue:
ALKA Ceramics, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
55 euro (including cost of materials)

Course Code: CRO01

Type of Session:
Course – Children (8-13 years)

Artisan:
Joanne Bugeja

Description:
Students will obtain knowledge of the fundamental stiches in crochet and learn how to read and understand written patterns, allowing them to put their new skills into practise by creating small functional items.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
9 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
8 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
1 hour

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
105 euro (excluding cost of materials)

Course Code: EGG01

Type of Session:
Workshop – Adults

Artisan:
Jacqueline Bugeja

Description:
Students will gain awareness in relation to different types of eggshells and their characteristics. They will learn how to blow and clean an eggshell, decorate a hanging eggshell, which will already have print on it, and decorate it with sequins.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
12 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
1 session

Duration of Sessions:
1 hour 30 mins

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
10 euro (including cost of materials)

Course Code: EMB01

Type of Session:
Course – Adults

Artisan:
Marisa Grech

Description:
Students will be introduced to the art of embroidery, learning the basic stitches as well as methods of transferring patterns on to fabric. By the end of this course, participants will be able to embellish a piece of fabric into a unique embroidery design.

Minimum number of Students:
4 students

Maximum number of Students:
10 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
6 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
70 euro (excluding cost of materials)

Course Code: FIL01

Type of Session:
Workshop – Adults

Artisan:
Kevin Attard

Description:
Students will learn basic techniques in traditional Maltese filigree.

Minimum number of Students:
3 students

Maximum number of Students:
5 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
1 session

Duration of Sessions:
3 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
120 euro (including cost of materials)

Course Code: GAN01

Type of Session:
Course – Adults

Artisan:
Alda Bugeja

Description:
Students will learn the intricate art of combining fine wires, thread, and sequins to form delicate and unique floral decorations. Materials used include cotton, satin, and silk thread, different types of fine wire, bouillon, beads, and pearls.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
8 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
8 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
3 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
250 euro (excluding cost of materials)

Course Code: GAN01-G

Type of Session:
Course – Adults

Artisan:
Alda Bugeja

Description:
Students will learn the intricate art of combining fine wires, thread, and sequins to form delicate and unique floral decorations. Materials used include cotton, satin, and silk thread, different types of fine wire, bouillon, beads, and pearls.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
8 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
12 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Gozo Weaving & Creations, Victoria, Gozo

Cost:
250 euro (excluding cost of materials)

Course Code: LAC01

Type of Session:
Course – Adults

Artisan:
Jacqueline Fava

Description:
Students will learn how to set a needle lace project, along with the basic principles to follow when creating a design.

Minimum number of Students:
9 students

Maximum number of Students:
15 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
8 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
50 euro (excluding cost of materials)

Course Code: MAC01

Type of Session:
Course – Adults

Artisan:
Alda Bugeja

Description:
Students will obtain basic skills in macramé. They will learn four different macramé knots and, with the skills learnt, they will be able to do four different keychains, bracelets, and plant pot holders. At the end of the course, they will be able to do the whole process for each of these items, from start to finish.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
8 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
8 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
3 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
295 euro (including cost of materials)

Course Code: MAC01-G

Type of Session:
Course – Adults

Artisan:
Alda Bugeja

Description:
Students will obtain basic skills in macramé. They will learn four different macramé knots and, with the skills learnt, they will be able to do four different keychains, bracelets, and plant pot holders. At the end of the course, they will be able to do the whole process for each of these items, from start to finish.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
8 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
12 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Gozo Weaving & Creations, Victoria, Gozo

Cost:
295 euro (including cost of materials)

Course Code: MWE01-G

Type of Session:
Course – Adults

Artisan:
Alda Bugeja

Description:
Students will begin learning how to weave using cardboard and frame looms. Basic skills such as the plain weave and tapestry weave will be taught, allowing them to weave items such as coasters, bookmarks and landscapes.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
8 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
12 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Gozo Weaving & Creations, Victoria, Gozo

Cost:
295 euro (including cost of materials)

Course Code: SEW01

Type of Session:
Course – Adults

Artisan:
Marisa Grech

Description:
Students will begin learning the basics of sewing and embroidery, learning hand stitches and also using a sewing machine to complete different tasks. By the end of the course, participants will be able to create a project showcasing all the skills achieved during the sessions.

Minimum number of Students:
4 students

Maximum number of Students:
10 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
6 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
70 euro (excluding cost of materials)

Course Code: WEA01

Type of Session:
Course – Adults
Note: A course for children will be offered in summer

Artisan:
Antoine Vella

Description:
Students will be provided with an introduction to traditional weaving and be able to learn this craft through the use of traditional looms.

Minimum number of Students:
3 students

Maximum number of Students:
5 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
13 sessions, held once a week

Duration of Sessions:
3 hours

Venue:
St Paul’s Store, Bieb ir-Ruwa Limits of Rabat, Malta

Cost:
295 euro per person (excluding materials, priced at 5 euro per kilogram)

Courses and Workshops offered by Artisans

As part of its efforts to promote local crafts and to diffuse artisanal skills, the Malta Crafts Foundation is providing a space at its premises within the Ta’ Qali Artisan Village from where artisans can deliver their own courses and/or workshops.

The craft being instructed, the level of difficulty, as well as the schedule and method of delivery varies from one session to another, depending on what the different artisans are offering in their courses and/or workshops.

This page is updated regularly with the latest courses and/or workshops being added to the list. Applications are to be submitted directly to the artisans through the details provided.

Type of Session:
Workshop – Adults

Artisans:
Charlene Mercieca

Description:
Unleash your creativity and learn the fundamentals of candle-making in this hands-on beginner’s workshop. Explore different types of waxes, wicks, fragrances, and dyes whilst mastering the step-by-step process of crafting your own scented candles. By the end of the session, you will take home beautifully handcrafted wax creations and the skills to continue making more. For those eager to refine their techniques, this workshop can lead to an advanced workshop that is available upon request exclusively for those who have completed the beginner’s course.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
12 students

Commencement Date:
April 2025

Time:
TBC

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
1 session

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
85 euro (including cost of materials)

Contact Details:
Contact the artisan through the social links.

Social Links and Contact:
Charlene Mercieca

InstagramMail

Type of Session:
Workshop – Adults (16+ years)

Artisans:
James Dimech

Description:
Paper craft for beginners from simple origami to paper art gift ideas.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
15 students

Commencement Date:
April 19th, 2025

Time:
12:30h-14:30h

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
1 session

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
40 euro (including cost of materials)

Contact Details:
Contact the artisan through the social links.

Social Links and Contact:
James Dimech

InstagramMail

Type of Session:
Workshop – Adults

Artisans:
Charlene Mercieca

Description:
Discover the art of handmade soap in this two-hour, hands-on crash course designed for beginners. Learn the basics of soap making, including the use of essential oils and herbs, safety precautions, and step-by-step techniques to create your natural soap. By the end of the session, you will take home your handcrafted soap and the knowledge to continue experimenting on your own. For those eager to refine their techniques, this workshop can lead to an advanced workshop that is available upon request exclusively for those who have completed the beginner’s course.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
12 students

Commencement Date:
April 2025

Time:
TBC

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
1 session

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
85 euro (including cost of materials)

Contact Details:
Contact the artisan through the social links.

Social Links and Contact:
Charlene Mercieca

InstagramMail

Type of Session:
Course – Adults (16+ years)

Artisans:
James Dimech

Description:
Large paper flowers to be used as wall decor in kids’ rooms and events decorations.

Minimum number of Students:
5 students

Maximum number of Students:
15 students

Commencement Date:
April 5th, 2025

Time:
12:30h-14:30h

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
2 sessions, once a week on Saturdays

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Malta Crafts Foundation, Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
60 euro (including cost of materials)

Contact Details:
Contact the artisan through the social links.

Social Links and Contact:
James Dimech

InstagramMail

Type of Session:
Course

Artisans:
Alfie Gatt

Description:
This course focuses on fundamental watercolor techniques, providing participants with a solid foundation to confidently work with this versatile medium. Beyond technical skills, the course aims to inspire a heightened sense of curiosity and observation, helping participants explore the interplay of color, light, shadow, and composition. By the end of the course, participants will be equipped with the tools and knowledge to create their own unique artworks, combining technical expertise with personal creativity.

Maximum number of Students:
16 students

Commencement Date:
May 6th, 2025

Time:
17:30h-19:30h

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
10 sessions, once a week on Tuesdays

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
190 euro (excluding cost of materials)

Contact Details:
Contact the artisan through the social links.

Social Links and Contact:
Alfie Gatt

InstagramMail

Courses in collaboration with Lifelong Learning

The Malta Crafts Foundation is also collaborating with the Directorate for Lifelong Learning & Employability within the Ministry for Education, Youth, Sport, Research and Innovation in order to develop more artisanal courses, thereby enhancing the variety of artisanal courses being offered through Lifelong Learning.

The first course included in the Course Prospectus as a result of this direct collaboration was that on Traditional Maltese Hand-Painted Lettering and Sign Writing, known as tberfil.

While applications are currently closed, in view of the overwhelming demand more courses will be launched in due course.

Course Code: CTBR30L1-1

Description:
Students will obtain basic skills and techniques in the traditional Maltese hand-painted lettering and sign writing, known in Maltese as tberfil. The course is being held in collaboration with Lifelong Learning.

Maximum number of Students:
15 students

Amount and Frequency of Sessions:
30 sessions, held twice a week – Wednesday 17:30h-19:30h and Saturday 09:30h-11:30h

Duration of Sessions:
2 hours

Venue:
Ta’ Qali Artisan Village

Cost:
34.94 euro