Blue pottery workshop
Blue pottery is a traditional Jaipur craft known for its vibrant cobalt-blue glaze and floral-motif designs. In this hands-on workshop participants learn the full process — from preparing the dough-like mixture, shaping items (tiles, bowls, plates), hand-painting traditional motifs, to glazing and a demonstration of kiln-firing. The workshop is ideal for travelers who want an immersive cultural experience and a take-home handmade souvenir. No prior experience required.
Location
Blue Pottery Workshop — central Jaipur studio (near Old City), Jaipur, India
Duration
2–3 hours for a hands-on session (3–5 hours if you include full glazing and firing demo).
Best Time to Visit
October–March (cool, pleasant weather). Mornings (9:00–12:00) or late afternoons (15:00–18:00) are best to avoid midday heat. Workshops run year-round with slight schedule variations during monsoon.
Pricing
INR 600–1,800 per person (standard 2–3 hour session, materials included). Private sessions: INR 3,000–7,000 depending on group size. Special classes (detailed painting or large pieces) may cost INR 1,500–3,000. Shipping of finished fired pieces (if not completed on-site) is extra and arranged on request.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Hands-on shaping and molding of pottery items (tiles, bowls, plates)
Traditional cobalt-blue glazing and hand-painting of Rajasthani motifs
Live kiln-firing demonstration (when available)
Take-home fired or air-dried souvenir (depending on firing schedule)
Opportunity to meet local artisans and learn about the history of Jaipur blue pottery
Itinerary
Arrival, welcome, and short introduction to blue pottery history
Tea/water provided; studio orientation and safety briefing.
Demonstration by the master craftsman
Watch the full process: mixing the dough-like base, forming, smoothing, and initial painting.
Hands-on session: shape and paint your piece
Participants choose an item to make; staff assist with shaping and applying traditional motifs.
Glazing and finishing touches
Instructor applies or supervises application of the cobalt glaze; pieces are prepared for drying or firing.
Kiln-firing demonstration / Q&A
If a firing demo is scheduled you’ll observe the kiln process. Otherwise staff explain firing times and shipping/pickup options for finished pieces.
Safety Requirements
Wear apron or clothes you don’t mind getting clay on
Supervise children closely — small pieces and tools can be hazardous
Kiln/firing zones are hot — keep a safe distance during demonstrations
Inform instructors of any skin sensitivities or allergies to glazes or chemicals
Follow instructor guidance on tool use to avoid cuts or scrapes
Tips
Book in advance—popular studios fill up, especially in high season
Wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes; bring a light jacket for cooler months
Ask for a larger item if you want a truly fired piece (small items dry/firet faster)
If the studio can’t fire your piece during your visit, arrange local pickup or shipping (expect a 2–7 day turnaround)
Combine the workshop with visiting nearby attractions in Old Jaipur (City Palace, Jantar Mantar, Johari Bazaar)
Consider a private session for family groups or special occasions — many studios provide certificates or photo ops
Carry cash for small purchases or tips; some studios accept cards but not all