If you’re looking for the best mask-making workshop in Venice, Ca’ Macana should be on your radar. Tucked away in the heart of Venice, this famous mask shop offers an experience that’s not just about creating a beautiful mask but also about diving deep into the rich history of Venetian culture.
Our family took the plunge with their ABC Course, and while things didn’t start off perfectly, the day turned into one of the most memorable parts of our trip.
Making your own Venetian mask is a fun, hands-on way to connect with the city’s rich culture. For more family-friendly tips and must-see spots, check out my guide on visiting Venice with kids—it covers everything you need to know!
If you’re looking for other great kid-friendly activities in Venice, don’t miss a gondola-rowing lesson or a make-your-own-murrini activity on Murano Island.
Mask Making at Ca’ Macana
We went with the ABC Course at Ca’ Macana, which is known for its authentic Venetian masks made using the traditional papier-mâché method. The cost was 44 Euros per person for our group of four, with a slight discount for larger groups. One of the best parts? You only pay when you get there, in cash—no need to lock things in too far in advance.
Our adventure at Ca’ Macana began even before we arrived—because we actually walked to the wrong location first. Venice is a giant of winding streets, and the fact that there are multiple Ca’ Macana workshops didn’t make things any easier. We ended up on the completely wrong side of town, only to realize we were at the wrong workshop.
After a bit of a panic, we called the correct location, and thankfully, they were incredibly accommodating. They let us join a class later in the day, which was a huge relief.
When we finally arrived at the right place, tucked away off the main paths near Piazza San Marco, we were ready to sit down and get started.
But here’s the thing—when we stepped inside, we quickly realized space was tight, and literally everything was covered in paint. So, tip number one: wear something you don’t mind getting messy. They do give you aprons, but trust me, you’ll want to leave your best outfit back at the hotel.
The challenges didn’t end there. When we finally got inside, the workshop was bustling with activity, and there wasn’t much in the way of direction. We found ourselves a bit lost and unsure of where to start, especially with the kids eager to get going.
After a few awkward moments of standing around, we decided to ask another family who looked like they had the hang of things. They were kind enough to explain how to pick out our masks and get set up. It wasn’t the smoothest start, but we were grateful for their help, and soon enough, we were ready to dive into the mask-making experience.
We each picked out a plain white papier mache mask from a collection of traditional Venetian masks. Whether it was the iconic Plague Doctor or the elegant Columbina, every mask came with a story.
With brushes in hand, we started bringing our masks to life using bright acrylic colors. The kids were completely into it, adding their own unique flair to their masks. It was great to see their creativity shine through, with the artisans right there to help with any tricky bits. They made sure everyone, no matter their age, felt confident and proud of their work.
While we painted, the artisans shared stories that really brought the experience to life. We learned that these full-face coverings weren’t just for fun—they played a crucial role in the social life of Venice, giving people a way to move through the city without being recognized. This wasn’t just about making a cool mask; it was about connecting with a centuries-old tradition that’s deeply woven into the fabric of Venetian culture.
The workshop also gave us insight into the evolution of these masks, from simple face masks used centuries ago to the elaborate carnival masks we see today. It was fascinating to see how the art of mask-making has evolved yet still holds onto its roots in the papier-mâché method.
With the main painting done, we got to add the finishing touches—glitter, feathers, gold leaf, you name it. The kids loved this part, each making their own mask unique, and honestly, so did I. It was all about taking that final step to make our masks truly unique. By the end of the mask workshop, we were all grinning, holding up our own masks like they were trophies—which, in a way, they were.
Overall Thoughts
Looking back, our time at Ca’ Macana was easily one of the best mask making classes in Venice. Sure, the day had its ups and downs, but in the end, it was a fantastic experience. We walked away with not just our own unique Venetian masks, but a deeper connection to Venetian culture and the mask-making tradition that’s been passed down through generations.
If you’re planning a trip to Venice, especially with kids, I can’t recommend this Ca’ Macana workshop enough. It’s more than just a fun activity—it’s an opportunity to dive into the history of Venetian masks, work alongside Venetian artisans, and walk away with a unique souvenir that you created with your own hands. Whether you’re into the history of masks, the Venice Carnival, or just looking for something creative to do, this is a must-try.
So next time you find yourself in Venice, make your way to Ca’ Macana, near St. Mark’s Square and the Grand Canal, and get ready to create something truly special. Just don’t forget to wear something you’re okay with getting messy—because once you start crafting your own Venetian mask, things might get a little colorful!
