2-Hour Rust Printing Class in Forli Emilia Romagna Tradition

About this tour

Learn rust printing, a centuries-old textile craft rooted in Emilia Romagna, at a workshop in Forlì's historic centre. Over two hours, you'll carve patterns into pear wood blocks, then press them onto fabric using traditional dyes. The technique produces wash-resistant prints inspired by rural symbolism—roosters, wheat, grapes—or contemporary designs dreamed up by the workshop itself. You'll leave with your own finished cloth.

Highlights

• Carve your own pear wood printing blocks by hand
• Apply traditional rust dyes to fabric using wooden stamps
• Learn motifs rooted in Emilia Romagna agricultural heritage
• Create a wash-resistant printed cloth to take home
• Work alongside local craftspeople in a historic building
• Choose between heritage symbols or original floral designs

What to expect

The workshop starts with instruction on how to cut clean, precise patterns into soft pear wood—no prior carving experience needed. Once your block is ready, you'll dip it into dye and press it repeatedly onto your cloth, building up layers of colour and pattern. The craftspeople will guide you through pressure and timing so your prints come out crisp. You'll finish with a completed piece that withstands washing, ready to fold into your bag.

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