Your first time painting ceramics: what to expect
From choosing your piece to collecting it after firing, here is how a workshop goes.
By Andrea · Thursday, 8 October 2026
Never painted ceramics before? Good news: most people who join us haven't either. Here's what a Joy & Paint workshop looks like, from the moment you book to the day you take your piece home.
Before the workshop
You choose your date and your ceramic piece when you book. Each piece has its own price, from €25 to €40, and that price covers everything: the piece, paints, brushes, glazing, firing and a voucher to spend at the café.
You don't need to bring anything. We set the table with paints, brushes, water and palettes. Paint can mark fabric, so wear something you don't mind getting a little color on.
If you already have an idea, like a pattern, a name or a favorite flower, bring a photo or a sketch on your phone. If not, that's fine too: we'll have ideas on the table.
When you arrive
Our workshops take place at partner cafés around the Algarve, and each listing gives the café, the date and the time. When you arrive, find the Joy & Paint table, order something with your café voucher and take a seat. Your piece will be waiting for you.
A workshop lasts around two and a half hours, so there's no rush.
Painting your piece
Andrea and Paola start with the basics: how to hold and load your brush, how the colors behave and how to plan your design. Then it's your turn, and we're there to help whenever you need us.
- Start with a light sketch. A soft pencil line on the unglazed piece is fine: it burns away in the kiln.
- Paint in thin layers. Most colors look stronger with two or three coats.
- Leave the base unpainted. It sits on the kiln shelf during firing.
- Don't worry about small mistakes. A damp brush or a cotton bud lifts paint while it's still wet.
Colors can look paler while you paint. Glazing and firing bring them out, so your finished piece will be brighter and glossier than what you see on the table.
After the workshop
When you're done, leave your piece with us. We glaze it and fire it in the kiln, which makes it hard and glossy. Our glazes are food-safe, so mugs, bowls and plates can be used for food and drinks.
We'll let you know when your piece is ready, and we'll share the collection details when you book.
Who can join
Everyone is welcome, beginners included, and coming on your own is just as fine as coming with friends. Children can join too: we recommend a minimum age of 4, and every child needs to be with an adult. Workshops are in English and Portuguese, and Spanish is also available.
