“This was an incredible experience in a gorgeous setting. Bill and Lisa have set up their workshop space in a beautiful home they’ve created in San Miguel de Allende. Their attention to detail and the care with which they gave instruction on how to create enamel jewelry from start to finish was truly amazing. I left with beautiful pieces I made myself!”

Brian and I had the most wonderful experience at Bill and Lisa’s cloisonné enameling workshop in San Miguel de Allende. From the moment we arrived, we felt welcomed, relaxed, and inspired. Bill and Lisa are not only incredibly talented artists, but also amazing teachers and hosts.

They have created a truly special environment—a beautiful home and studio where students can stay, learn, create, and connect with others. The accommodations are wonderful, with six to eight bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom. The main level has a comfortable common area with a kitchen, TV space, and a lovely courtyard that makes it easy for everyone to gather and get to know one another.

And then there’s the food! Every day, Bill and Lisa provide amazing breakfasts and lunches, which makes the entire experience feel effortless. Evenings are yours to enjoy San Miguel de Allende, or, as our group often did, head out together for a wonderful dinner and explore the town.

But the heart of the experience is the studio and the art. The class is wonderfully laid-back, yet incredibly engaging. The studio Bill and Lisa have created is such an inspiring space—it seems to bring out the artist in everyone. Brian and I were amazed at how absorbed we became in creating our own cloisonné pieces. There were several days when we happily spent 8–10 hours in the studio, completely immersed in the process.

Learning the techniques and understanding all of the steps involved in creating cloisonné is fascinating. Bill and Lisa are incredibly knowledgeable, patient, encouraging, and generous in sharing their craft. They have a wonderful way of teaching that allows you to learn at your own pace while still challenging you to create something you can truly be proud of.

One of the unexpected highlights was the people we met along the way. We made quite a few new friends and shared so many laughs, meals, creative moments, and memorable experiences together.

We came for the cloisonné, but we left with beautiful pieces of art, wonderful memories, new friendships, and an experience we will always treasure.

We cannot recommend Bill and Lisa’s workshop highly enough. If you have ever wanted to learn the art of cloisonné—or simply want a unique, creative, and unforgettable experience in San Miguel de Allende—take the class. You will absolutely love it!

Lisa and Bill are wonderful, gracious hosts at their jewelry school in San Miguel de Allende. No prior silversmithing experience is required—only a willingness to learn. As the primary instructor, Bill is exceptionally knowledgeable, patient, and eager to share his deep expertise in cloisonné enamel, silversmithing, and gemology. By the end of the week, each student went home with beautiful, setting-ready cloisonné enamel pieces and a profound appreciation for the process and art of cloisonné enamel. 

Cheers! 

The San Miguel cloisonné class is so so good.  The whole experience, one week, is wonderful. Bill is a great and patient teacher.  He demonstrates a step then guides every student as needed - small classes assure all the attention you need.  I have had several pieces I made in SMDA turned into jewelry - they are beautiful. Bill furnishes all the tools and materials you need, and advises if asked for an opinion.  Students stay with Bill and Lisa in their delightful house(s) - and breakfast and lunch are provided.  Always delicious, and with cheerful accommodation for diet limits (vegetarian here). San Miguel itself is a 30-minute walk from the house/studio, and sometimes Bill will lead an expedition to town.  There are lots of very good restaurants in town, and good shopping - something for every budget.  Lisa is full of information and tips for where to go for whatever you are interested in. On request she will assist in translating.  I have been twice, would go next year but I have other travel planned.

I had an absolutely wonderful experience taking the cloisonné class in San Miguel de Allende. Each day began with a delicious breakfast prepared by Mica, whose warm hospitality made everyone feel right at home. The accommodations were amazing, providing a comfortable and relaxing place to stay while enjoying this unique creative experience.

The mornings were spent learning the fascinating art of cloisonné, with hands- on instruction guiding us through every step of the process. After a delicious lunch prepared by Mica, we returned to class and continued working on our projects until about 3:00 PM. The instruction was excellent, and it was incredibly rewarding to watch our pieces develop throughout the week.

After class, there was plenty of time to explore the beauty and culture of San Miguel. From wandering the colorful streets and enjoying the local cuisine to visiting shops and meeting new friends from the class, every day offered something special. The combination of art, culture, great food, wonderful accommodations, and new friendships made this much more than a workshop. It was a truly memorable experience.

This trip was absolutely worth it. I came home with beautiful cloisonné pieces, lasting memories, and friendships I will cherish. I highly recommend this experience to anyone looking for a creative and enriching getaway in one of Mexico’s most beautiful cities.