Poterie en folie, the pottery experience to fall back into childhood
Are you looking for a soothing, creative experience in a welcoming setting where the golden rule is gentleness and serenity? Then Poterie en Folie is the place for you! You can come and enjoy and express your creativity through various pottery workshops, all in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
What is Poterie en folie?
Poterie en Folie is a workshop-boutique for pottery, modeling and clay throwing located in Chargé, just 5 min from Amboise. Open since 2016, Poterie en Folie is run by Magali Delvaux, a ceramic potter and Maître Artisan d’Art for 14 years. She has now been joined by her daughter Mahéva. Both passionate about pottery, they work together to create unique pieces (vases, crockery, birdhouses, flowers, artistic creations…) for private and professional customers, which can be found in their boutique. They also offer pottery workshops throughout the year on different themes, letting you explore your creativity. So, whether you’re a beginner, an amateur or an experienced potter, the workshops are open to all, whatever your level or age.
Our experience at Poterie en folie
Our creative experience began upon our arrival, where we were warmly welcomed by Mahéva and Magali. They then invited us to don an apron before beginning the activity.
The activity consisted of modeling a hot air balloon and/or the famous salamander of Francis I.
After settling down at the modeling table, equipped with the templates for our chosen creations, Mahéva explained the workshop’s structure to us, and we were able to begin our creations.
The first step was to roll out and flatten our clay dough, which we placed between two blocks on which a rolling pin was placed, so that it reached the ideal thickness—neither too thick nor too thin. This way, we flattened it so that the templates for our respective designs could be cut out. Once this was completed, we cut out the shape of our templates from each of our pieces of dough and then placed them on a rotating base to facilitate the painting process.
After that, using water and a small brush, we smoothed the corners of our creations to achieve a clean and well-defined result once they were dry.
A friendly, relaxing and creative experience
Then we had to blow-dry our creations for a few minutes to allow the paste to dry and harden.
When it came to painting them, we were free to do what we liked and what inspired us. This allowed us to give free rein to our imagination and creativity.
So we were able to start painting our hot-air balloon and salamander, which was a real moment of relaxation, taking us back to our childhood memories and freeing our minds of anything that might be bothering us, making us feel like we were in a bubble. All the more so, as we were lulled by the gentle musical atmosphere of the workshop.
All in all, this 1-hour activity was a moment filled with creativity and relaxation, taking us back to the carefree days of our childhood. What’s more, we were immersed in a warm and caring environment where we could feel Magali and Mahéva’s love and passion for pottery.
In the end, we left relaxed and in the company of our creations.
Why taking the pottery experience at Poterie en folie?
If you feel the need to take some time for yourself and let your imagination and creativity run wild, Poterie en Folie is sure to seduce you and immerse you in its friendly, soothing atmosphere. You’ll be able to clear your mind with a range of creative workshops, reconnecting you with your childlike soul. You’ll leave the experience with your creation in hand.
Useful information
- This activity can be booked through the Tourist Office’s online store
- Store and workshop open year-round
- Online store: https://magali-delvaux.eproshopping.fr/
Opening hours: October to May, Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
June to September, open daily, 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. - Find them on Instagram
- Address: 17 rue Julia Daudet, 37530 Chargé
