Macramé with Marta
Step into the quiet rhythm of coastal Portugal and learn the meditative art of macramé with textile artist Marta. Transform simple rope into sculptural pieces inspired by sea, sand, and wind, and experience the slow, tactile joy of making with your hands. Outside the studio, walk white-sand beaches and catch a magnificent coastal sunset.
- Snacks, Coffee, & Tea
Pricing
- One Guest
- USD $1065
- Additional guest(s) (max 4)
- USD $660
Meet the Artist
Marta is a Portuguese textile artist known for transforming traditional knotting techniques into elegant, sculptural works for modern interiors. After years working in television, she left screens behind to launch her own macramé studio. Today, Marta is recognized internationally, exhibiting across Portugal and Europe and collaborating with luxury brands and interior designers.
From her studio in the quiet fishing village of Torreira—surrounded by dunes, sea, and lagoon—she creates bespoke wall hangings, lighting, curtains, and large-scale installations. Marta’s work is characterized by textural refinement, tension, and precision, with monumental staircases and architectural installations crafted in white and earth tones. All materials come from local suppliers, and each piece is made by hand, guided purely by intuition—no sketches or machines involved. For Marta, macramé is not a trend but an ancient craft to be honored and reimagined. More than decoration, her pieces are meditations on time, texture, and touch.
She looks forward to sharing the techniques that keep her connected and attentive to the driftwood, forest paths, and estuary breezes of her home—and hopes to share this new way of seeing with you.
From her studio in the quiet fishing village of Torreira—surrounded by dunes, sea, and lagoon—she creates bespoke wall hangings, lighting, curtains, and large-scale installations. Marta’s work is characterized by textural refinement, tension, and precision, with monumental staircases and architectural installations crafted in white and earth tones. All materials come from local suppliers, and each piece is made by hand, guided purely by intuition—no sketches or machines involved. For Marta, macramé is not a trend but an ancient craft to be honored and reimagined. More than decoration, her pieces are meditations on time, texture, and touch.
She looks forward to sharing the techniques that keep her connected and attentive to the driftwood, forest paths, and estuary breezes of her home—and hopes to share this new way of seeing with you.
VAWAA Includes:
- Overview of the macramé process and its foundational principles.
- Guided walk through the village and natural surroundings that inspire Marta’s work.
- Demonstration and hands-on practice of the four fundamental macramé knots.
- Small guided exercises to improve technique, precision, and consistency.
- Exploration of different fibers, sustainability practices, and how to choose the right materials.
- Learn to fix common mistakes, adjust patterns, and apply quality finishing touches.
- Create a small or medium-sized macramé piece to take home.
- All materials provided, including 100% cotton rope (5mm thick).
- Option to visit a rope supplier for an additional fee.
Explore Torreira
Torreira is a quiet coastal village, about an hour south of Porto, the nearest major city and international airport. Situated between the Atlantic Ocean and the Ria de Aveiro lagoon, it boasts expansive white-sand beaches ideal for sunbathing and water sports, as well as tranquil estuary waters perfect for sailing and windsurfing. The village is renowned for preserving the traditional "Arte Xávega" fishing technique, where fishermen haul nets from the sea to shore—a practice that continues to be a vibrant part of local culture. Immerse yourself in this rich heritage, savor local delicacies like eel stew, and experience the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity in this picturesque setting.
Additional Details
The best time to visit Torreira is from May through early November, when the weather is warm and sunny. It’s best to avoid August and the first week of September, during summer holidays and the town festival, when streets are crowded and loud. Winter (January-February) are calm, but rainy.
This VAWAA is not available for longer durations.
Adults 18 years and older, elders, people with accessibility and wheelchair needs are welcome to participate. This VAWAA is not recommended for guests with dust or skin allergies, due to the dust generated when handling macramé ropes.
Marta speaks Portuguese, English, and Spanish.
This VAWAA is not available for longer durations.
Adults 18 years and older, elders, people with accessibility and wheelchair needs are welcome to participate. This VAWAA is not recommended for guests with dust or skin allergies, due to the dust generated when handling macramé ropes.
Marta speaks Portuguese, English, and Spanish.