easy
2–3 hours
No physical fitness required; suitable for most ages and abilities.
Join Marija Lah in Ljubljana’s one-of-a-kind workshop to learn the rare art of umbrella repair. Transform your damaged umbrella into a functional keepsake and connect with a unique local craft.
Set in the heart of Ljubljana, Slovenia's charming capital, Ljubljana Tourism offers a hands-on workshop unlike any other in the outdoor activity scene: Popravi svoj dežnik, a masterclass in umbrella restoration led by Marija Lah, the city’s sole umbrella repair expert. Within Ljubljana’s vibrant urban landscape, this unique experience invites visitors to engage directly with a fading craft, combining practical skill-building with cultural immersion. Ljubljana itself is defined by its lively riverside, resilient alpine climate, and a population that treasures sustainability and artisanal handiwork alike. The city’s varied weather, from soft spring rains to crisp autumn chills, makes an umbrella not just a convenience but a constant companion, turning this workshop into a relevant and meaningful adventure. The session highlights the intriguing evolution of umbrella technology and design, illuminating Marija's careful methods tailored to revive battered frames and torn canopies. Beyond repair, participants can reimagine their old umbrellas into stylish, functional accessories such as totes and aprons, intertwining eco-conscious upcycling with creative expression. This practice elevates discarded objects into lasting keepsakes, reinforcing Ljubljana Tourism’s commitment to sustainable urban experiences. Sitting at a nexus of tradition and innovation, the workshop offers more than a fix; it provides a tangible link to the city's cultural identity and resourcefulness in an age of disposability. It also serves as a quiet counterpoint to more physically demanding outdoor pursuits nearby, such as hiking the green areas around Rožnik Hill or kayaking on the Ljubljanica River, offering a more reflective, tactile engagement with both place and craft. For travelers seeking authenticity and a practical skill anchored in local culture, Popravi svoj dežnik is a compelling dive into Slovenia’s understated dedication to thoughtful living and preservation.
Workshops are limited in space, so reserve early to secure your spot with Marija Lah.
Bring an umbrella that needs repair or restoration to make the most out of the session.
Dress casually since the workshop involves hands-on activity including cutting and sewing.
This workshop takes place indoors—consider weather when timing your visit to Ljubljana.
Umbrella repair as a craft in Ljubljana reflects a broader cultural tradition of meticulous handiwork and sustainability dating back to the Austro-Hungarian era.
This workshop supports sustainable consumption by reducing waste through repair and upcycling, aligning with Ljubljana's Green Capital initiatives.
Bring an old or broken umbrella for hands-on repair during the workshop.
Wear clothes you don’t mind working in, as fabric manipulation is involved.
Useful for taking notes or photos of repair techniques to practice later.
Carry your newly repaired umbrella or converted tote home sustainably.