Florence: workshop tour – brass working since 1963

Discover the Art of Brass Making in Florence with a Hands-On Workshop

The Florence workshop tour by Il Bronzetto srl offers a unique opportunity to see Florentine craftsmanship up close. With a duration of just 1.5 hours, this intimate experience takes visitors through the entire process of transforming brass into decorative objects. Located in Tuscany, the tour combines traditional techniques with modern technology, including 3D printing, to give a comprehensive look at brass working since 1963.

What makes this tour especially appealing is the chance for participants to get involved. Touching, trying, and even creating a small brass item turn this experience into more than just observation. It’s ideal for families, thanks to discounts, and for anyone interested in artisanal craftsmanship. While it’s a short tour, it offers a rich, hands-on insight into Florence’s long-standing tradition of metalworking.

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Key Points

• Duration of 1.5 hours suits travelers seeking a concise but immersive activity
• Small group setting ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience
• Hands-on participation includes touching, trying, and creating a brass piece
• Tour combines traditional manual techniques and cutting-edge technology like 3D printing
• Create a personalized brass paperweight as a lasting souvenir (additional fee)
• Locations include multiple areas of the workshop, from design to polishing

Location and How to Find It in Florence

The workshop is situated on a street in Florence, clearly marked by images of lamps, crystal vases, and the “Il Bronzetto” sign on a white background. The precise coordinates are 43.75780487060547, 11.240710258483887, making it easy to locate. Visitors will notice the environment’s industrial charm, with brass chandeliers and shelves filled with brass bars creating a captivating setting. The workshop’s signage and display make it straightforward for first-time visitors to find the entrance.

The Workshop Environment: A Visual Feast of Brass and Creativity

Stepping into Bronzetto’s workshop, visitors are greeted by an environment filled with gleaming brass objects and unfinished chandeliers hanging overhead. The workspace is lively, with buckets of brass powder ready for recycling, adding to the dynamic scene. The display of long brass bars reveals the raw materials used in the craft, while the chandeliers dancing above add an artistic touch.

This setting is designed to emphasize authentic craftsmanship, blending traditional manual techniques with modern innovations like 3D prototyping. The atmosphere is both industrial and artistic, giving a tangible sense of the history and innovation behind Florence’s brass art.

Guided Tour Led by Simone Calcinai

The tour is led by Simone Calcinai, the son of the original founder, whose expertise and passion bring the process to life. Under his guidance, visitors retrace the entire journey of a brass object, starting with design sketches and moving through digital modeling, prototype creation, and finishing touches. His explanations make the technical aspects accessible, highlighting the fusion of tradition and technology.

The guiding narrative provides insights into the craftsmanship, making complex steps like welding, assembly, cleaning, and polishing easy to follow. Visitors are encouraged to touch and try various stages, fostering a hands-on understanding of each phase.

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From Design to Final Touches: The Brass Creation Journey

The tour begins with design sketches and manual drawings, which are then transformed into digital models. The use of 3D printing plays a significant role in creating prototypes, illustrating how modern methods complement traditional techniques.

Next, visitors explore the welding and assembly areas, where artisans meticulously put together the brass components. The process of cleaning and polishing follows, emphasizing the manual skill involved in bringing the objects to a high shine. Every stage is visible and explained, revealing the care and precision needed to craft each piece.

Create Your Own Brass Souvenir for Lasting Memories

For an additional fee, participants can engage in a short workshop to produce their own brass item. Under supervision, they assemble a personalized brass paperweight, attaching a cast knob in a shape of their choosing from many available options. The process involves attaching the knob, inserting the brass casting, and securing it with a screw.

This hands-on activity transforms the tour from observation into participation, letting visitors take home a custom-made brass object as a personal keepsake of their Florentine experience.

Accessibility and Group Size

The workshop is designed for private groups, ensuring an intimate and focused experience. It is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a wider range of visitors. The tour does have restrictions such as no oversize luggage, smoking indoors, or unaccompanied minors.

Since some content is shown in its original language and the tour provides guides in Italian, English, and French, visitors can expect clear, multilingual explanations. The small group format enhances interaction and allows for more personalized attention.

Convenient Cancellation and Booking Options

The activity offers the flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing peace of mind for travelers with changing plans. Booking can be made with a reserve now and pay later option, enabling travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment.

The tour’s setting and content make it particularly well-suited for those interested in artisanal craftsmanship, design, and small-scale manufacturing. Its short duration is perfect for fitting into a busy sightseeing schedule in Florence.

What Sets This Brass Workshop Apart from Others

Unlike many craft tours, this experience combines traditional manual techniques with cutting-edge technology, such as 3D printing. The guided journey through the workshop is led by an expert host, Simone Calcinai, whose family has been involved in brass work since 1963.

The opportunity to create a personalized brass item adds a memorable touch, making the experience more interactive. The small group size ensures an intimate atmosphere, enhancing learning and engagement. The workshop’s location is easy to find, thanks to clear signage and a prominent display of brass objects.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This workshop appeals most to art lovers, craft enthusiasts, and anyone curious about the combination of tradition and innovation in Florentine craftsmanship. It’s especially suited for families, given the discounts for children, and for visitors who want a short yet meaningful activity that captures the essence of Florence’s artisanal history.

Those interested in creating a keepsake will find the personalized brass item workshop particularly appealing. However, it’s not suitable for visually impaired guests or those over 95 years old due to the physical and sensory nature of the activity.

Final Thoughts on the Florence Brass Workshop Tour

The Florence workshop tour by Il Bronzetto srl offers an engaging, hands-on exploration of brass craftsmanship that is both educational and memorable. The small group setting, guided by an expert host, ensures a personalized experience that blends tradition and modern technology seamlessly.

While the short duration may limit in-depth exposure, the opportunity to touch, try, and create makes this tour stand out. It’s particularly suitable for families and artisanship enthusiasts seeking a unique souvenir and a glimpse into Florence’s rich metalworking heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the workshop suitable for children?
Yes, discounts are available for families, and children can participate in the creating of a brass paperweight with supervision, making it a fun and educational activity for younger visitors.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration of the tour is 1.5 hours, making it a concise but comprehensive experience.

Can I create my own brass item?
Yes, for an additional fee, visitors can assemble a personalized brass paperweight by attaching a knob and casting it themselves, under expert supervision.

Is the tour accessible to wheelchair users?
Yes, the workshop is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that a variety of visitors can enjoy the experience.

Is cancellation possible?
Yes, the activity can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility in planning.

This detailed review highlights the unique blend of tradition and innovation that defines the Florence brass workshop tour, making it a compelling choice for those wanting to see the craftsmanship behind Florentine metal art and participate directly in the process.

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