Paper, leather, glass and fabric studios hidden between Mestre, Venice and Treviso. Stories, faces, and one-of-a-kind creations.
In Veneto, there exists a quieter, more intimate Italy—made of skilled hands, hidden workshops, and timeless stories whispered behind old doors and narrow alleys. It’s the gentler face of Made in Italy: one that follows roots instead of trends, that doesn’t shout but leaves a mark.
We’ve selected six authentic ateliers between Mestre, Venice and Treviso where you can rediscover the value of details, slowness, and the magic of meeting the maker. Each visit is a small journey. Every object, a tale.
In Murano, a new generation of artisans is reimagining the traditional image of Murano glass. Their creations, while faithful to ancient techniques, embrace a bold, contemporary design—vivid, playful, and often marked by ironic twists that make each piece truly one-of-a-kind.
Despite their modern aesthetic, the production process remains rooted in tradition: the blazing furnace, the molten glass, and the inherited mastery passed down through generations. Visitors can watch this mesmerizing art live, gaining a deep appreciation for the complexity and beauty of this millennia-old craft.
Limited edition pieces blending tradition and innovation are available for purchase—each one telling a story, honoring a heritage while pushing it forward.
Founded in 2008 by Elisabetta Casaburi, this paper studio and bookbinding workshop is located in the heart of Venice, just steps from the Basilica dei Frari. The Carterìa stands as an exceptional example of traditional handmade paper and binding techniques.
Using methods dating back to the 15th century, each notebook, photo album, or artist’s book is crafted with precision, using fine materials and a deep respect for the past. These ancient techniques are reinterpreted with a modern sensibility, resulting in products that are not only beautiful but timeless. Each item is a small work of art—an heirloom made by hand.
Founded in 1875, this historic textile workshop preserves the noble Venetian weaving tradition. Using 18th-century looms and entirely manual techniques, the Bevilacqua atelier produces fine fabrics like soprarizzo, damasks, and velvets with gold and silver threads.
These fabrics are sought after for palace restorations, theaters, museums, and haute couture houses. The workshop also invests in the future, training young artisans and exploring new ways to apply its heritage textiles in contemporary design.
In Treviso, bespoke tailoring reaches its peak in this workshop rooted in deep sartorial tradition. Each suit is made entirely by hand—from fabric selection to the final stitch—celebrating the client’s personality and physique with timeless elegance.
The attention to detail, hand-sewn finishes, and commitment to classic craftsmanship result in garments of impeccable fit and lasting beauty, tailored to embody Italian refinement at its finest.
Founded in 1984, Ca’ Macana has become one of the most renowned ateliers at the heart of the Venice Carnival. It specializes in traditional Venetian papier-mâché masks, handcrafted using historic techniques and high-quality materials.
Iconic creations such as the Bauta, Plague Doctor, and Harlequin come to life here. Beyond mask-making, Ca’ Macana hosts immersive workshops for families and enthusiasts alike—from quick, fun decorating sessions to full-length mask creation courses, where participants mold and paint their own pieces from scratch.
Founded by brothers Sergio and Massimo Boldrin in 1984, this studio revived the forgotten art of Venetian mask-making. Each mask is handcrafted using traditional papier-mâché techniques, combined with a strong artistic vision influenced by theater, painting, and stage design.
Sergio Boldrin, an accomplished painter and scenographer, has collaborated with directors like Stanley Kubrick and Terry Gilliam, bringing his artistic spirit to the workshop. Stepping into the Bottega is like entering a magical box: walls lined with colorful masks, the scent of paint and paper, and an atmosphere of deep creative reverence.
A visit here offers much more than a souvenir—it’s a journey into Venice’s cultural and artistic soul.
Exploring these six workshops means more than simply visiting artisans—it’s about stepping into suspended worlds, where each gesture preserves ancient knowledge, each object tells a story, and each face reveals a passion proudly passed down.
From the flames of Murano’s glass furnaces to the whisper of handmade paper, from the noble textures of Venetian velvet to the precise silence of Treviso’s tailoring rooms, and the mysterious spirit of Carnival masks—Veneto unveils its most human and authentic side.
