Barcelona: Artisan Ceramic Workshop & Make Your Own Planter

Summary

Hand build a ceramic planter in barcelona with local artisans and hands-on clay time

You’ll step into an artisan ceramics studio in Barcelona, meet local artists Wendy and Eric, and shape your own ceramic planter from raw clay — no experience needed. Learn hand-building techniques, decorate your piece, and share laughs over imperfect creations. You’ll leave with clay under your nails and maybe a new appreciation for handmade things.

What’s the experience like?

We ducked under the old stone archway and straight into Taller Gingell’s studio — it smelled like cool earth and something faintly floral. Wendy was already waving us in, apron on, bits of clay on her sleeves. She introduced us to Eric (her husband), who grinned and handed me a coffee before I’d even set my bag down. The place felt lived-in — shelves lined with planters in every stage, sunlight catching on the dust. I kept touching things I probably shouldn’t have. Couldn’t help it.

Wendy started talking about different clays and glazes — honestly, I didn’t expect to care but she made it sound like choosing paint for a house you’ll live in forever. We got our aprons (mine was way too big, which made me laugh) and started kneading the clay. It’s colder than you think at first, sticky but somehow soft? My hands looked ridiculous but nobody cared. There was this moment where Eric showed me how to pinch the sides just right so they wouldn’t crack later — he joked that everyone makes at least one planter that looks like a wonky hat their first time.

I tried carving a little pattern around the rim; Wendy watched me struggle for a bit before showing me this trick with a loop tool that made it so much easier. She told stories about her work ending up in museums — wild to think these hands make things that end up behind glass somewhere. Someone next to me tried saying “planter” in Catalan; Li laughed when I tried to copy her accent (I probably butchered it). The whole thing felt relaxed — no pressure to be perfect, just people messing around with mud together while Barcelona hummed outside.

When we finished, our planters sat in a row looking nothing alike except for being obviously handmade. Wendy explained they’d need time to dry before firing — if you’re visiting Barcelona just for a few days you can swap yours for one already finished by them (which is kind of tempting; theirs are gorgeous). But I wanted mine shipped home, cracks and all. I still think about that lopsided little pot sometimes when my hands are clean again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Create your own ceramic planter

• Arrive at ceramics workshop
• Learn about clays and techniques
• Put on apron and prepare clay
• Hand build your ceramic planter
• Texture and decorate your planter
• Choose pickup or finished planter option

Top questions

How long does the artisan ceramic workshop take?

The activity typically lasts 2-3 hours in the Barcelona studio.

Do I need any prior ceramics experience?

No experience is necessary; beginners are welcome.

What do I get to make during the workshop?

You’ll hand-build and decorate your own ceramic planter.

Can I take my planter home immediately after?

No; ceramics need 1-2 weeks to dry and fire. You can pick up later or have it shipped (shipping not included).

If I'm only visiting Barcelona briefly, what are my options?

You can leave your piece and choose a finished planter by Taller Gingell to take home instead.

Are children or people with limited mobility welcome?

Yes; the workshop is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Is everything provided or do I need to bring supplies?

All materials including aprons, tools, clay, and firings are provided.

Is there WiFi available at the ceramics studio?

Yes; free WiFi is included during your visit.

What’s included

Your session includes use of aprons (even if they’re oversized), all ceramic modeling tools, plenty of clay for building your own planter, access to professional kilns for firing your piece after drying time, plus WiFi throughout the studio space so you can share photos or check messages as you go.