Online Portuguese Tile Course (Domestika)
Make Portuguese ceramic tiles from scratch
In this online Portuguese tile course hosted on Domestika, you’ll learn the full process of making Portuguese ceramic tiles, from molding and cutting the clay to glazing with the majolica technique and classic decoration methods such as stencil, sgraffito, and strezido. The course is taught by Marisa Ferreira and Alba Plaza, founders of Gazete Azulejos, a Porto-based tile atelier dedicated to preserving historic tiles.
What you’ll learn
- Materials and preparation for traditional techniques
- Painting exercises, tips, and corrections
- Molding and cutting the clay tiles
- Glazing and the majolica technique
- Stencil, sgraffito, and strezido techniques
- Combining freehand and stencil work
- Portuguese pattern logic: repetition and composition
- Applications, handling, and care
Who this course is for
- Beginners curious about Portuguese culture and traditional crafts
- Creatives who enjoy pattern, ornament, and decorative design
- Ceramic enthusiasts who want a clear introduction to azulejo-style work
- Anyone looking for a calm, structured project to follow at their own pace
No previous experience is required.
Why learn with Gazete Azulejos
Gazete Azulejos is an active atelier in Porto where we paint tiles daily, run workshops, and work with techniques inspired by historic Portuguese azulejos. This course reflects real atelier practice, not generic craft content.
If you ever visit Porto, you can also join our in-person workshops at our atelier.
Final project
Design and create your own Portuguese-inspired ceramic tiles by applying the techniques taught throughout the course.
Frequently asked questions
What will I learn in this course?
You’ll learn the full process of creating Portuguese-inspired ceramic tiles: materials and preparation, painting exercises, molding and cutting the clay, glazing with the majolica technique, and several traditional decoration techniques (stencil, sgraffito, strezido, and combining freehand with stencils). You’ll also learn how Portuguese patterns are built through repetition and how tiles are used and cared for.
Is this course beginner-friendly?
Yes. It’s structured step by step, starting with materials, preparation, and painting exercises, then moving into making the tiles and applying different techniques. Beginners can follow it at their own pace.
Do I need a kiln?
To complete ceramic tiles as finished, durable pieces, you need access to a kiln and the appropriate firing process. The course teaches the full ceramic workflow, but you don’t need to own a kiln at home: many students use a local ceramics studio to fire their pieces. You can also practice the painting and pattern exercises without firing while you learn.
Is the course on the Gazete Azulejos website?
No. The course is hosted and purchased on Domestika. This page links you to the official Domestika course page.
Is it live or recorded?
It’s an on-demand course on Domestika, so you can learn at your own pace and revisit the lessons whenever you want.
What is the final project?
The final project is to design and create your own Portuguese-inspired ceramic tiles, applying the techniques taught throughout the course.
Ready to start this online Portuguese tile course?
If you want a structured, inspiring introduction to Portuguese tile-making and decoration, this course is the best place to begin.