Educational Indigo & Shibori Fabric Dyeing Workshop with Independent Cuban Artisans

Discover the art of traditional indigo dyeing through an immersive, hands-on workshop at Alma Cuba Shop, an independently operated creative studio dedicated to sustainable design, cultural preservation, and the empowerment of Cuban artisans. Designed in accordance with the Support for the Cuban People travel category, this educational experience provides meaningful opportunities to engage directly with independent Cuban designers while supporting the country's growing private creative sector.

Led by experienced Cuban artisans, participants learn the fundamentals of Shibori, the traditional Japanese folding and resist-dyeing technique, while exploring how these methods have been adapted through contemporary Cuban design. Guests receive step-by-step instruction in preparing, folding, dyeing, and revealing their own unique textile creation while gaining insight into sustainable production, material reuse, and the realities of operating an independent creative business in Cuba.

More than a textile workshop, this experience fosters authentic cultural exchange through conversations about design, entrepreneurship, and craftsmanship. By participating, travelers directly support self-employed Cuban artisans and contribute to the sustainability of a women-led creative initiative, making this an enriching cultural experience fully aligned with the Support for the Cuban People travel category.

Tour Highlights

• Visit Alma Cuba Shop, an independent women-led creative studio in Old Havana

• Learn traditional Shibori folding and indigo dyeing techniques from Cuban artisans

• Create your own one-of-a-kind hand-dyed textile to take home

• Discover sustainable textile practices, natural dyeing methods, and material reuse

• Gain insight into Cuba's independent design community and creative entrepreneurship

• Engage directly with Cuban artists through meaningful cultural exchange

• Learn how independent artisans combine traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design

• Support self-employed Cuban designers through direct educational engagement

• Experience an authentic cultural workshop aligned with the Support for the Cuban People travel category while contributing to Cuba's independent creative economy

This Tour Includes

• Guided indigo dyeing and Shibori workshop led by independent Cuban artisans

• All dyes, fabrics, tools, and workshop materials

• One completed hand-dyed textile to take home

• Educational presentation on sustainable textile production and Cuban design

• Direct interaction with independent Cuban designers and artisans

• Meaningful cultural exchange in a creative studio environment

What to Expect

• Learn traditional Shibori folding and indigo dyeing through step-by-step instruction

• Create a unique textile using professional dyeing techniques and sustainable materials

• Gain insight into the creative process behind independent Cuban textile design

• Participate in discussions about sustainability, entrepreneurship, and artisan production in Cuba

• Enjoy a relaxed, welcoming studio atmosphere designed for creativity, learning, and cultural exchange

• Engage directly with Cuban artisans while supporting a women-led independent creative initiative

Who Is This Experience For

• Travelers interested in textile arts, fashion, sustainability, and design

• Visitors seeking authentic cultural exchange

• Supporters of independent Cuban artisans, women entrepreneurs, and small businesses

• Creative travelers, students, designers, and makers of all skill levels

• Families and beginners looking for an engaging hands-on workshop—no previous experience required

• U.S. travelers participating under the Support for the Cuban People travel category

Special Instructions

• Guests are welcome to bring a cotton or natural-fiber item to upcycle or dye (subject to instructor approval)

• Wear comfortable clothing suitable for hands-on dye work; indigo dye may permanently stain fabrics

• Closed-toe shoes are recommended inside the workshop

• Each finished piece is unique due to the handmade dyeing process

• Please arrive on time to participate fully in the educational workshop

• Advance reservations are recommended due to limited studio capacity

• Activities may be adjusted based on workshop operations or artisan availability

• Handmade textiles and artisan products may be available for optional purchase directly from Alma Cuba, providing additional support to independent Cuban designers and artisans

Restrictions

• This tour is not recommended for guests with limited mobility.

Special Notes

• US credit cards are not accepted in Cuba.

• Please have local currency (Cuban pesos) or dollars in cash with you for purchases and tips within the destination.

• Activities are subject to change without notice and may be substituted if not available

• This Experience aligns with U.S. travel guidelines under the “Support for the Cuban People” category by engaging directly with independent Cuban projects.