Lyon: Guided tour of the last Lyon silk printing workshop

If you’re thinking about adding a touch of authentic craftsmanship to your Lyon visit, this guided tour of the last silk printing workshop is worth considering. It offers a rare glimpse into a fading art — manual silk printing — that’s been kept alive with passion and skill by dedicated artisans.

What we particularly love about this experience is how intimate it feels; you’re stepping inside a working Lyon silk house, not just observing from afar. Plus, the live demonstrations of screen printing and velvet hand-painting are genuinely impressive, showcasing techniques that date back to Lyon’s early 20th-century heyday. On the flip side, it’s a relatively short experience — just 50 minutes — so if you’re looking for a more comprehensive or interactive workshop, this might feel a little light.

That said, this tour best suits travelers who are curious about heritage crafts and enjoy seeing tradition brought to life. It’s particularly appealing if you love detailed handiwork, want to understand Lyon’s historic ties to silk, or seek a relaxing, authentic activity away from the usual sightseeing crowds.

Key Points

• Authentic craftsmanship: Experience a rare, manual silk printing process still used today.
• Heritage preservation: Discover a workshop with over 3,000 original printing frames dating back to the 1950s.
• Expert demonstrations: Watch live screen printing and velvet hand-painting, highlighting historic techniques.
• Cultural insight: Learn about Lyon’s important role in the silk industry and its ongoing tradition.
• Short but rich: A 50-minute guided tour that balances visual interest with informative commentary.
• Language options: Tours are available in French and English, making it accessible for many visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You Can Expect from the Tour

Starting Point and Atmosphere
The tour begins in the courtyard on the right side of Maison Brochier Soieries, located right in Lyon’s historic silk district. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the warm and authentic atmosphere, echoing Lyon’s long-standing reputation as a silk hub. The workshop is both a living craft space and a museum, packed with antique frames and tools that tell stories of generations of artisans.

Inside the Workshop
Once inside, you’ll quickly realize that this isn’t a typical factory tour. Instead, it’s a behind-the-scenes look at manual silk printing techniques that are increasingly rare. The artisans will guide you through the stages of production, from preparing fabrics to the final touches. You’ll see how silk rolls are stretched on long tables, with each step performed with precision. You might find it fascinating how the colored pastes are prepared in a dedicated “color kitchen,” echoing traditional methods.

Live Demonstrations
The highlight for many visitors is the live demonstration of “à la lyonnaise” screen printing. This classic method, once a staple for Lyon’s manufacturers, involves the meticulous application of patterns using historic printing frames. They also showcase block printing, another traditional technique that’s now quite rare, giving you a real appreciation for craftsmanship.

The Art of Velvet Hand-Painting
Upstairs, you’ll witness an exceptional demonstration of hand-painting on silk velvet. This is a Lyon specialty that requires incredible finesse. The artisans’ manual gestures are delicate and precise, revealing an artistry that takes years to perfect. This part of the tour offers a poetic pause, allowing you to understand why Lyon remains a center for high-quality silk production.

Heritage and Contemporary Creations
Throughout the tour, you’ll learn that the workshop is home to more than 3,000 original printing frames, some dating back to the 1950s. These frames contain a diverse range of patterns, blending heritage motifs with contemporary designs. Many visitors appreciate knowing that the workshop continues to use these historic tools daily, keeping alive a vibrant tradition rather than turning it into just a museum display.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Group Size
At just 50 minutes, this tour is perfect for a quick cultural fix or as a part of a larger day in Lyon. It tends to be small and intimate, ideal for those who prefer personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

Language and Accessibility
Tours are offered in both French and English, which makes it accessible to a broad audience. The guide’s explanations are clear, and the demonstrations are visual enough to be appreciated regardless of language skills.

Cost and Value
Given the focus on authentic, manual techniques and the exclusive opportunity to see vintage printing frames in action, the tour offers good value for those interested in craftsmanship. It’s a niche experience, so it’s understandable if some might feel it’s a bit specialized. However, for anyone with an appreciation for artisanal work or Lyon’s silk legacy, it’s a worthwhile peek into a living tradition.

Who Should Skip This?
If you’re traveling with very young children under 10 or seeking a more family-oriented activity, this might not be suitable. It’s more of a quiet, detail-oriented experience, not designed for high-energy kids or large groups.

The Experience from Travelers’ Perspectives

Multiple reviews highlight how impressive the live demonstrations are. One reviewer mentions “seeing the hand-painting on velvet was astonishing, you could almost feel the finesse in every stroke.” Others appreciated how authentic the workshop feels, with many frames dating back decades showing the durability of Lyon’s craftsmanship. Some did note that the short duration leaves a desire for a more detailed workshop, but overall, the experience is praised for its passion and heritage.

Conclusions: Is This Tour Right for You?

This guided tour is especially appealing if you’re curious about traditional crafts or want a meaningful insight into Lyon’s silk industry. It’s a relaxed, visually engaging experience that celebrates craftsmanship and history. You’ll get a sense of the artisans’ dedication and see techniques that are increasingly rare — a true window into French artisanal excellence.

However, it’s not a hands-on workshop, so if you’re after a more interactive or extended experience, you might find this a little brief. But if your schedule allows for a quick cultural and artistic immersion, it’s a satisfying way to connect with Lyon’s textile roots.

All in all, this experience offers a distinctive cultural snapshot that combines heritage, craftsmanship, and beauty. It’s best suited for art lovers, history buffs, or anyone wanting to understand why Lyon earned its reputation as the silk capital of the world.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children under 10?
No, the experience isn’t recommended for children under 10, mainly because of the delicate and detailed nature of the demonstrations.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 50 minutes, making it a quick but insightful visit to the workshop.

Are the tours available in both French and English?
Yes, the tours are offered in both languages, and the guide will adapt accordingly.

Can I see live demonstrations during the tour?
Absolutely. You’ll see live screen printing and velvet hand-painting, which are the highlights for many visitors.

Is there an opportunity to buy silk accessories?
Yes, you can explore a wide range of silk accessories labeled “Made in Lyon” during the visit, though the primary focus is on the craft itself.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak times, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before if needed.

What is the price of the tour?
While the exact price isn’t specified here, it offers good value considering the quality of demonstrations and heritage insights.

Is the workshop an active production site?
Yes, it’s a working workshop where artisans continue to use original frames and techniques daily, not just a museum.

Can I take photos during the tour?
While the data doesn’t specify, given the nature of the workshop, photography might be permitted, especially of demonstrations — but it’s best to ask the guide.

Would this experience suit someone interested in haute couture?
Yes, the detailed craftsmanship and traditional techniques are related to haute couture’s artisanal roots, making it appealing for those interested in fashion and textiles.

If you’re drawn to authentic artisan crafts and want to see Lyon’s silk tradition alive today, this tour offers a fascinating, intimate look into a craft that’s both historic and still very much relevant. It’s a quiet, meaningful experience that leaves a lasting impression of Lyon’s craftsmanship legacy.

You can check availability for your dates here: