The Paraguayan Institute of Craftsmanship (IPA) has launched a national initiative, offering a series of free training workshops to the general public. These courses will be conducted at various regional centres across the country, aiming to strengthen ancestral knowledge and promote the development of Paraguayan crafts.
The extensive curriculum covers a range of traditional techniques, including ñandutí (a traditional spiderweb-like lace), ao po’i (a fine, traditional embroidery), goldsmithing, Pirayú hammock weaving, and encaje ju (needle lace). In addition, specialised classes in thread dyeing and fixing techniques will be available.
Goldsmithing and needle lace workshops
For those interested in metalwork, the Luque branch will offer goldsmithing workshops under the guidance of Jorge Núñez. The basic course is scheduled to begin on 24 March, with classes held on Tuesdays from 09:00 to 12:00 and from 13:00 to 15:00 over 16 sessions. The intermediate level will commence on 26 March, with classes every Thursday from 13:00 to 15:00 for a duration of 16 classes. The advanced goldsmithing course will also start on 26 March at the same time, but will encompass 32 classes.
In Carapeguá, the workshops will be dedicated to the intricate art of encaje ju. Two instructors will lead separate courses to accommodate a larger number of students. Gladys Matto will begin her classes on 6 April, running from Monday to Friday with sessions from 08:00 to 11:00 and from 13:00 to 15:00. A second series of workshops will be led by Isabel Morel Vda. de Cuéllar, starting on 4 April. Her classes will take place on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays during the same morning and afternoon time slots.
Detailed course offerings in Itauguá
In the city of Itauguá, a hub for traditional lace, the Paraguayan Craftsmanship Institute workshops will focus exclusively on the art of ñandutí. Experienced artisan Lorena Segovia will lead the instruction for all levels. The basic level course started on 17 March, with classes held on Tuesdays from 09:00 to 12:00 and again from 13:00 to 15:00. This foundational programme will consist of 16 classes.
For those with existing skills, the intermediate level workshop commenced on 19 March. These classes are scheduled for Thursdays from 13:00 to 15:00 and will also run for a total of 16 sessions. Furthermore, an advanced course began on the same date and time, 19 March on Thursdays from 13:00 to 15:00, but will offer a more intensive curriculum spanning 32 classes to allow for in-depth skill development.
Embroidery and weaving programmes
The IPA’s regional headquarters in Yataity will host courses dedicated to ao po’i embroidery, with instruction provided by Emilia Segovia. The programme is comprehensive, with all three levels of proficiency started on 20 March. The basic level classes will take place on Fridays, with sessions from 08:00 to 11:00 and from 13:00 to 15:00, comprising 16 classes in total.
The intermediate course will also run on Fridays, from the same date, from 13:00 to 15:00 for 16 classes. The advanced programme will follow the same Friday schedule from 13:00 to 15:00 but will extend for 32 classes.
Meanwhile, in Pirayú, the focus will be on the distinct craft of Pirayú hammock weaving. Instructor Estela Escobar started teaching on 18 March. Two separate groups will meet for 16 classes each on Wednesdays from 08:00 to 11:00.
A more advanced group, intended for a 32-class programme, will meet on Wednesdays from 13:00 to 15:00. Additionally, Pirayú will offer a specialised course on thread dyeing and fixing techniques led by Darío Palma. This 32-class workshop is set to start on 7 April with sessions held on Wednesdays from 13:00 to 15:00.
Enrolment and contact information
These training opportunities are structured to accommodate various skill levels, with basic, intermediate, and advanced courses on offer. Officials from the Paraguayan Institute of Craftsmanship emphasised that these spaces are designed to preserve traditional methods, encourage continuous learning, and generate new opportunities for cultural and economic development.
Individuals interested in enrolling in any of these free workshops can obtain further information or register directly via WhatsApp at 0991 740 833, with staff available to respond to inquiries between the hours of 07:00 and 15:00. Alternatively, participants may visit their nearest regional IPA office in person to complete the registration process.
