Lace Making with Francesca
Step into the timeless world of Italian lace with Francesca, Italy’s last living master of Aemilia Ars. Learn to stitch delicate patterns entirely by hand—no machines, no fabric base, just needle, thread, and centuries of tradition. Outside the studio, experience a region where hand-rolled pasta, painted piazzas, vintage motors, and Renaissance cathedrals all share the same quiet devotion to craft.
- Snacks, Coffee, & Tea
Pricing
- One Guest
- USD $1065
- Additional guest(s) (max 2)
- USD $480
Meet the Artist
Francesca is Italy’s last living master and educator in Aemilia Ars needle lace, an intricate Renaissance-style technique originally associated with Bologna's artisan tradition. Trained from early childhood by her mother and grandmother, she has dedicated her life to preserving and evolving this refined form of punto in aere—lace made entirely with needle and thread, without a base fabric.
Her work brings to life centuries-old motifs from Renaissance and Art Nouveau archives, including detailed recreations of lost masterpieces such as the Vanderbilt “Peacocks’ Walk” and Cesare Vecellio’s ornamental table settings. Francesca's philosophy is rooted in the belief that for tradition to endure, it must evolve. While she continues to produce heirloom-quality table linens, collars, and decorative pieces, she also experiments with contemporary applications—most notably her “Gold Line” collection, where lace is cast in metal and worn as jewelry.
Beyond her own creations, she is a passionate educator, mentoring a new generation of artisans. She welcomes you into her studio to explore the living tradition of lace.
Her work brings to life centuries-old motifs from Renaissance and Art Nouveau archives, including detailed recreations of lost masterpieces such as the Vanderbilt “Peacocks’ Walk” and Cesare Vecellio’s ornamental table settings. Francesca's philosophy is rooted in the belief that for tradition to endure, it must evolve. While she continues to produce heirloom-quality table linens, collars, and decorative pieces, she also experiments with contemporary applications—most notably her “Gold Line” collection, where lace is cast in metal and worn as jewelry.
Beyond her own creations, she is a passionate educator, mentoring a new generation of artisans. She welcomes you into her studio to explore the living tradition of lace.
VAWAA Includes:
- Explore historic Italian lace-making, focussing on Renaissance-born Aemilia Ars tradition.
- Get introduced to punto in aere techniques—lace made entirely with needle and thread.
- Practice foundational lace stitches while getting familiar with traditional tools and materials.
- Design and create your own small lace objects using Aemilia Ars techniques, including a pincushion, small doily, earrings, essence bag, or a fashion accessory.
- Observe Francesca’s creative process as she interprets archival motifs into contemporary designs.
- Enjoy a refreshing drink or hot chocolate with Bolognese cookies and cakes in the garden.
- Option to walk through Modena to see fresh pasta shops, climb the Ghirlandina bell tower, and visit the Romanesque Duomo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore Bologna
Francesca's studio is located in San Giovanni in Persiceto, a small historic town just 25 minutes northwest of Bologna. While Bologna is known for its medieval towers, rich food culture, and as the birthplace of Aemilia Ars lace, San Giovanni offers a quieter glimpse into the region’s traditions. Its old town is full of character—painted facades, cobbled streets, and a strong culture of craftsmanship. The town is best known for “Piazzetta Betlemme,” a whimsical trompe-l’œil courtyard, reflecting its deep theatrical roots and one of Italy’s most imaginative Carnevale celebrations.
The surrounding area is home to Italy’s most iconic motor brands, with Ducati, Lamborghini, Pagani, and Ferrari all nearby. In Modena, you’ll find the UNESCO-listed Romanesque cathedral and the Ghirlandina bell tower to pasta shops where sfogline still hand-roll fresh dough each morning. San Giovanni sits at the center of all this—where centuries-old lace-making continues in the same landscape that celebrates innovation, artistry, and a deep respect for handmade traditions.
The surrounding area is home to Italy’s most iconic motor brands, with Ducati, Lamborghini, Pagani, and Ferrari all nearby. In Modena, you’ll find the UNESCO-listed Romanesque cathedral and the Ghirlandina bell tower to pasta shops where sfogline still hand-roll fresh dough each morning. San Giovanni sits at the center of all this—where centuries-old lace-making continues in the same landscape that celebrates innovation, artistry, and a deep respect for handmade traditions.
Additional Details
San Giovanni in Persiceto is lovely to visit year-round.
This session can be extended for up to 7 days. Please add a note in your booking request.
Adults 18 years and older are welcome to participate. Due to the delicate materials and tools involved, this session is not suitable for children. While the studio is located on the ground floor, please note that it is not wheelchair accessible.
Francesca speaks Italian and English.
This session can be extended for up to 7 days. Please add a note in your booking request.
Adults 18 years and older are welcome to participate. Due to the delicate materials and tools involved, this session is not suitable for children. While the studio is located on the ground floor, please note that it is not wheelchair accessible.
Francesca speaks Italian and English.