Florence has a history of artisan traditions, from leather making to bookbinding and glittery jewellery. Just walk over the famed Ponte Vecchio to see windows of sparkling items. However, venture further through the backstreets to find an exciting number of modern artisans in Florence. All are making beautiful products using traditional techniques with a flair. Many studios have shopfronts where you can explore products on sale. Below are three unique studios to discover in Florence, where you can find a unique gift and meet the maker.
BOOKBINDING – IL TORCHIO
A hidden gem via de′ Bardi just minutes from Ponte Vecchio, Il Torchio is a book and paper lover′s paradise. Handbound leather folio′s line wooden shelves are on display. The paper boasts a marble effect and is made the traditional way. By dipping it in colourful oils and hanging pieces over up-cycled wooden ladders. Run by Erin Ciulla, a Canadian native now fully ensconced in Florence, who first came to the city to study bookbinding under a local maestro. Yet when her teacher retired, Erin took over the store where she continues to work – a beautiful shopfront cum studio that welcomes customers worldwide. Erin can customise or create a bespoke item for you with embossing, a popular way to add a special touch to your purchase. Via de′ Bardi 17 Read more
JEWELLERY – SARA AMRHEIN
Bold statement jewellery is Sara′s forte, and this California native brings her bright personality to her pieces. Each item is intricately made and fired before being handcrafted onto necklaces and earrings to wear and adore. Her life between sunny LA and historic yet fashionable Florence plays a lead role in her pieces, combining traditional techniques with a fashion-forward design. From her studio in hip Sant′Ambrogio, Sara works on her latest creations, which are displayed in her light and bright shop, also housing a range of bracelets and brooches to discover. Piazza dei Ciompi, 5 Read more
CLOTHING –TIZIANA ALEMANNI
Tiziana is a tailor with fabric flair who makes funky clothing for modern women in her studio by Piazza Pitti. With a family heritage in manufacturing knitwear, her passion for intricate textiles to create unique fashion garments is what inspires her, as does her homeland of Sicily: its colours, beaches, Baroque architecture and Greek influences. From shift dresses with bold prints to tailored trousers with matching tops, Tiziana′s designs are the perfect style for the modern woman who likes to look fashionable yet elegant at the same time. Sdrucciolo Dé Pitti 22 tizianaalemanni.it
Photo © Beatrice Mancini / Olga Makarova