Venice: Carnival Mask Making Class with Artisan & Souvenir

Summary

Venetian artisan mask class near St Mark’s Square create decorate keep

You’ll step into a real Venetian workshop near St. Mark’s Square, meet a master artisan, and learn how to decorate your own Carnival mask using traditional techniques. Paints and supplies are included—and you’ll keep your finished creation as a personal souvenir. Expect laughter, local stories, and the kind of hands-on moment you’ll remember every time you see your mask at home.

What’s the experience like?

I’d always wanted to know if those wild Venetian masks were as mysterious to make as they looked. Turns out, it’s messier—and way more fun—than I expected. We ducked into this little studio near St. Mark’s Square, the kind of place that smells like old paper and paint, and met our teacher (I never caught his full name—everyone just called him Maestro). He had hands covered in gold flecks and a laugh that made the whole room relax right away.

The table was already set up with blank papier-mâché masks, brushes sticking out of jars, and little pots of paint in colors I didn’t even know had names. Maestro started showing us how to hold the brush so the paint would glide instead of clump—mine still clumped anyway, but he just winked and said, “That’s character.” He told us about how Venetians used to wear these masks for all sorts of reasons—not just Carnival—and how each shape meant something different. I tried painting tiny swirls on mine; my hand shook a bit from too much coffee or nerves or both. The air smelled faintly sweet from the glue drying somewhere nearby.

I got lost in it for a while—just dabbing color, listening to Maestro hum some tune I didn’t recognize. At one point, someone asked if we could add feathers; he grinned and pulled out a box of odds and ends like he’d been waiting for that question all day. My friend tried to write her name on hers in Italian script and ended up laughing so hard she nearly knocked over her water cup. It wasn’t quiet exactly—there was always someone giggling or asking what “pulcinella” meant—but it felt oddly peaceful anyway.

When we finished, Maestro lined up our masks for a group photo (he insisted), then wrapped them up so we could take them home without smudging the paint. Walking back out into Venice with my own mask tucked under my arm felt strange—in a good way. I still think about that hour whenever I see photos of Carnival crowds; there’s something about making your own piece of Venice that sticks with you longer than you expect.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Venetian mask making workshop

• Meet Venetian master artisan
• Learn ancient mask decorating techniques
• Discover historical use of masks
• Create your own papier-mâché mask
• Keep mask as special souvenir

Top questions

How long does the Venetian mask making class last?

The class lasts approximately 1 hour.

Where is the mask making class located in Venice?

The workshop is near St. Mark's Square (Piazza San Marco).

Do I get to keep the mask I make?

Yes, you will keep your decorated Venetian mask as a souvenir.

Are paints and supplies included?

All necessary paints and materials are included in the class.

Is this activity suitable for children or families?

Yes, it's suitable for all fitness levels and can be enjoyed by families or friends.

What happens if there is exceptional high tide?

If exceptional high tide occurs, the tour may be postponed or refunded.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to the workshop.

Are there any health restrictions for participants?

The tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

Do travelers staying outside Venice need to pay an access fee?

On certain dates, day visitors may need to pay a €5 access fee; check official city info for details.

What’s included

Your experience includes all paints and decorating supplies needed for your Venetian mask making class near St. Mark’s Square, live commentary from a master artisan sharing stories behind each design, plus you’ll get to keep your finished mask as a unique souvenir when you leave the studio.