Buy local crafts: meet the maker and plan for collection

Start with a craft that interests you

The Malta Crafts Foundation promotes makers and the artisan villages at Ta’ Qali in Malta and Ta’ Dbieġi in Gozo. Its facilities information identifies a range of crafts, including glass, pottery, filigree and lace. Use that as a starting point to choose the technique or maker you would actually like to see. A focused workshop visit can be more rewarding than browsing several unrelated souvenir shops. Ask where an item was made and who made it, and choose something you want to keep rather than buying because the itinerary calls for a souvenir.

Decide between watching and making

Mdina Glass welcomes visitors to watch glassmakers at its Ta’ Qali premises. A pottery session, by contrast, is a participatory activity that may need a booking and later collection. Bristow Potteries explains that painted pieces are glazed and fired after the workshop, so do not assume you can put the finished item straight into your suitcase. Check the current arrangement, the time available and whether delivery or later collection is possible. The same distinction applies to other crafts: a shop visit, demonstration and taught session are separate experiences.

Make space for the finished object

Before choosing fragile or bulky work, ask about packaging, transport and any delivery terms. If travelling soon, be realistic about firing, finishing or custom work. Confirm workshop suitability, materials and what is included before booking. Keep the maker’s details with the item so its story survives the trip home. Our guide does not certify every product’s origin or promise that demonstrations run throughout every opening period. Contact the individual business for the day’s arrangements, and use the Foundation’s current information to discover additional makers and courses.

PLAN YOUR VISIT