Travelers consistently praise the espadrille-making workshop as a fun and worthwhile experience. They highlight the friendly and informative staff, who teach about local history while guiding participants through the craft. The handmade shoes and the opportunity to decorate them are also appreciated. Some mention the convenience of booking through a credit card experience program and the helpful communication via WhatsApp. Overall, the workshop is described as a memorable and enjoyable activity, with staff going above and beyond to ensure a positive experience.
Based on recent traveler reviews.
Take a step into the world of traditional craftsmanship and leave with more than just a memory - leave with something you made yourself.
What can you expect?
Step into the role of an artisan and create your own pair of authentic espadrilles, inspired by a traditional Mediterranean craft that has been part of culture for centuries. Guided by skilled hosts, you'll explore the story behind this iconic shoe - from its humble origins to its place in modern fashion - before choosing from a wide selection of styles, colors, and sizes. Once your materials are selected, you'll stitch and design your own pair in a fun, interactive setting filled with music, creativity, and shared moments. At the end of the session, you leave with a handcrafted pair of espadrilles that is truly your own - and a lasting memory of Curacao.
The workshop takes place at HANDMADE® store on Heerenstraat 13, in the heart of Willemstad's vibrant Punda district.
Join HANDMADE® and turn a moment in Curacao into something you can wear forever. Book your workshop today.
What's included
Included
All materials
Full experience with artisans
Memorable cultural activity
Itinerary
A hands-on workshop in Punda where you craft your own pair of espadrilles to take home.
1
check meeting instructions
Meet at HANDMADE store
Arrive at the HANDMADE store on Heerenstraat 13, in Punda.
2
approx. 15 min
The story behind espadrilles
Your host shares the craft's Mediterranean origins and its place in fashion.
3
approx. 15 min
Choose your style
Pick your favorite style, color and size from the selection.
4
approx. 1 hour
Stitch and design
Stitch and design your own pair in a fun, music-filled setting.
Cancel up to 24 hours before your tour for a full refund. For cancellations made within 24 hours, no shows, or late arrivals, no refund will be issued.
Every person who appreciates true craftmanship and a shoe that reflects attention to detail should excitedly shop here.
The customer service was top tier on a slow Sunday evening. I am so glad I happened upon them. As we left with my new high stacked toe enclosed espadrilles one of the staff was handpainting a pair of shoes, Starry Night. Wow! Plus they ship internationally!
Andres Gamez
11 months ago
Google
Came for a shoe workshop which was a fun experience. The two employees helping us were incredibly nice, informative, and were great for conversation. Lovely hand made shoes here in the store along with crafts.
YI LIU
10 months ago
Google
We absolutely loved this store! On a weekend when all the other stores were closed, we managed to buy two pairs of beautiful shoes that we really wanted, making it a perfect ending to our trip. The staff were very patient, which made our trip a perfect success!
Shea Brogdon
11 months ago
Google
Signed up for the shoe making class with some friends, and it was totally worth it. The ladies working the shop were super friendly, and did a great job teaching us about the history or curacao while also being great teachers when it came to making our own Espadrilles. Definitely worth visiting and taking the shoe making class while you're on the island!
Sarah Bartles
a year ago
Google
Received an email from Mastercard Priceless experiences about making authentic espadrilles in Curacao. Since I already have the most amazing pair of Handmade Menorquinas that I bought online, I checked the event dates and was excited to see that our cruise ship would be docked in Curacao on the day of one of their events. Contacted Luis on WhatsApp who explained that the shop was being renovated but to let him know our sizes and he would be sure to have them ready. I also asked if I could buy another pair of the Menorquinas which he had shipped from Spain. The whole experience was a 10/10! Luis and the two other staff were lovely and so helpful in teaching us how to decorate beautiful shoes. We also got a great history lesson of the island and enjoyed an adult beverage. I hope to actually see one of the shops fully stocked some day!
Frequently asked questions
The Classic workshop ($129 pp) covers flat espadrilles in an open group session of up to 10 people. The Premium workshop ($159 pp) is always private and offers more exclusive styles such as flat and mid-height wedges and heels, with higher-quality materials and finishing.
The Classic workshop costs $129 per person, and the Premium workshop costs $159 per person. Payment is due before the workshop.
Yes, the minimum age to take part is 4 years old.
The workshop takes 2 hours and includes all materials plus the full experience guided by skilled artisans.
The workshop takes place at the HANDMADE® store at Heerenstraat 13 in Punda, Willemstad. We don't offer a pickup service.
Your host first shares the Mediterranean origin story of espadrilles, after which you pick your favorite style, color, and size. You then spend about an hour sewing and designing your own pair in a relaxed atmosphere with music.
Questions before you book?
Real people. Local support on Curacao.
Our local guide team knows the island, the operators and the details that matter before you book. No call centers, just practical support when you need it.
