What is an ‘espardenya’?
It is the traditional footwear of Catalonia, also known as espadrilles.
In this workshop, we will delve into the history of this traditional Catalan footwear, exploring the noble and ecological materials used in its construction. Moreover, you will craft your own story—one you will share when you wear your personally designed and hand-sewn ‘espardenyas.’ Created exclusively for you in a small workshop in Barcelona, the shopping experience becomes unique and unforgettable. You’ll have custom-made footwear, handmade and tailored to your tastes and preferences.
This activity is recommended for visually impaired individuals, as it incorporates tactile elements that allow them to explore the objects and materials used in crafting ‘espardenyas,’ enhancing their overall experience.
Each pair of espadrilles has three customizable parts: the base material color, the color of the laces, and the style of the stitching. You can choose from a wide variety of colors and styles, with thousands of possible combinations awaiting you.
The meeting point is directly at the workshop, where you’ll be surrounded by finished products and materials, immersing yourself in a world of color and tradition.
The workshop begins with an introduction to the world of ‘espardenyas’ or espadrilles, exploring their origin and history. You’ll learn how this traditional Catalan footwear evolved from being the work shoe for the local working class to becoming a luxury product that is now in vogue internationally.
Next, each participant will choose the color and size of the base they will work on, along with the ribbons and threads. The artisan will guide the participants in binding the espadrilles, and once completed, you’ll learn six different ways to tie them around the ankle, each with its own unique story.
It’s a fun and not too complicated process, making it suitable for families with children, offering a beautiful shared experience. By the end, each participant not only gains the technique for binding espadrilles but also a fascinating story to share and a unique souvenir that is hard to come by today.
Don’t worry too much if you don’t have sewing experience; the process is straightforward. Every single one of our visitors always leaves with their finished espadrilles and a smile from ear to ear.
A workshop designed especially for you, taking into account accessible communication criteria, ensuring that the workshop fully caters to your needs.
Optional:
Rental of a scooter, electric wheelchair, adapted car, and specific guides for hearing or visually impaired individuals, along with other related services. This activity can be combined with a half-day car tour to the city’s highlights.
All our experiences are tailor-made. For more information or to make a reservation, please email us at hola@vive4all.com, indicating the name of the experience in the subject line. We will be delighted to get in touch with you. Also, inquire about our corporate package.
