Florence: Tuscan Ceramics Masterclass & Montelupo Studio Visit

Summary

Hands-on pottery class in Montelupo with local artists and studio visit

You’ll get your hands messy shaping real Tuscan clay in Montelupo during this small-group ceramics masterclass. Tour a working countryside studio with Matteo’s family, try the potter’s wheel, then relax back at their shop while your piece gets prepped for shipping home. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left Florence.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to actually shape Tuscan clay with your own hands? I didn’t expect to laugh so much at my first try on the wheel, but Matteo—our guide and, honestly, pottery wizard—made it all feel less intimidating. We started in his family’s shop right in Montelupo, where shelves overflowed with colors I can’t even name. There was this faint earthy smell mixed with something floral from outside (maybe jasmine?). Matteo greeted us like we’d known him for ages, which helped because I was a little nervous about making something that wouldn’t collapse immediately.

The drive out to the factory was short but somehow felt like a little adventure—olive trees flashing by, windows down, someone’s dog barking in the distance. Inside the workshop, there was this quiet hum of concentration from people working on their own pieces. Matteo showed us how many hands touch each ceramic before it’s finished—his uncle glazing, his cousin painting delicate lines (I tried not to stare too much). When it was my turn at the wheel, my lump of clay spun wildly off-center at first. Matteo just grinned and nudged my elbow: “Piano piano,” he said. Go slow. It worked better than I thought.

After we’d made our pieces (mine looked kind of lopsided but I loved it), we headed back to the shop for a quick espresso and some stories about old Montelupo traditions. The best part? They’ll fire and glaze your creation after you leave—and ship it home once it’s ready. I still think about that cool weight of wet clay on my hands when I drink coffee now. Not sure if I’ll ever look at a mug quite the same way again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tuscan ceramics masterclass experience

• Travel to ceramics factory outside Florence
• Observe ceramic making process
• Return to shop in town
• Create your own ceramic piece

Top questions

How long is the Tuscan ceramics masterclass?

The class lasts around two to three hours including time at both the shop and factory.

Is transport from Florence included?

Transport by private vehicle is included between Montelupo shop and factory; public transport is available nearby.

Can children join the pottery class?

Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

What happens to my ceramic piece after the class?

Your piece will be double fired and glazed after you leave, then shipped to your home address.

Is this suitable for beginners?

Yes, no previous pottery experience is needed—Matteo guides you through each step.

Are working clothes provided?

Yes, raw clay and working clothes are provided for all participants.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the experience.

What’s included

Your day includes a small-group tour of both shop and countryside factory in Montelupo with all raw clay and working clothes provided; hands-on time at the ceramic wheel; double firing and glazing of your piece; shipment of your finished work directly to your home; plus private vehicle transport between locations if needed.