PUGLIA, ITALY
Contemporary Jewelry + Pattern Design with Miesje Chafer
October 14 - 21, 2025
Southern Puglia is home to amazing food, stunning olive fields, captivating coastlines, and quaint historic towns. Historically, Italy has a long tradition of fashion, jewlery design, and woven arts and we invite you to join us in this wonderful region for an in-depth retreat learning about pattern design and contemporary beaded jewelry.
Under Miesje’s expert guidance and instruction, we’ll start by learning the core principles of effective pattern design, including how to think about and work with color on a small-scale. From there, we’ll turn our focus to learning core beading and weaving techniques, which are the foundation for creating beaded jewelry.
We’ll start with learning to bead on on a loom, including how to create clean lines, incorporate pattern, and balance color. Then we’ll move onto the herringbone pattern, which will allow us to create a three-dimensional, cylinder-style necklace with a variety of patterns and colors. Last, we’ll learn about peyote stitching to create intricate, oscillating designs. With all these techniques in hand, you’ll have all the skills you need to design and create your own contemporary beaded jewelry collection.
Staying in a 16th-century palazzo, we’ll be surrounded by art, nature, and history. We’ll dine on regional delicacies, home cooked by locals who focus on typical dishes of the area. We’ll explore the charming town of Ostuni, visit the workshop of local artisans, and tour Lecce the “southern Florence” to learn the history of this famed ancient city. We’ll also have an opportunity to learn about the rich history of olive oil in the region and participate in a tasting at a local family farm.
This Ace Camps Travel Trip is open to all creative skill levels. Trip Itinerary, Details + Important Trip Notes below.
DATES
October 14 -21, 2025 ∙ 8 Days, 7 Nights
PRICE
Twin Shared Room $4,795 USD
Private Room from $5,295 USD
Full Rooming + Pricing Details Below
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
Multi-day workshop with Miesje Chafer where you’ll learn the core principles of pattern design on a small scale, including how to work with color, then apply those principles to design and create your own unique jewelry collection, using various beading and weaving techniques
Guided walking tour of the white walled town of Ostuni
Guided Olive oil tasting at a historic family-run olive farm
Guided walking tour of historic Lecce with free time to explore the shops and architecture
Pasta making workshop lead by local Italian women
Visit to a local artisans workshop
Workshop supply kit, including a beading loom and all the beads you need to create your own unique jewlry collection
Accommodations in a 16th-century, Italian palazzo
Transportation to and from included activities and meals
Return transport from Bari
Dedicated Ace Camps Travel Host, with you throughout your trip
Trip Prep call to meet your fellow travelers and talk through schedules, recommendations and questions
Travel + Learn with Miesje Chafer
Miesje is self-taught maker, designer and artist working predominantly with textiles, paper, and beads. Originally trained as nurse, fifteen years ago she sought to scratch the creative itch by enrolling on a three-day screenprinting course and hasn't looked back. Inspired by mid-century, Scandinavian, and folk design, she soon started to create bold, bright textile designs, which she printed onto fabric and used to produce a range of different accessories and products.
Her practice has developed and broadened over the years to incorporate a range of different techniques, including embroidery, needlepoint, collage, patchwork, appliqué, and, more recently, beading, which has been the perfect way to translate her designs and patterns into jewelry.
Miesje has over ten years of experience teaching workshops in person and online, bringing color, pattern—and hopefully joy!—to students all over the world. Learn more about Miesje and follow her on Instagram for inspiration at @miesjechafer.
Day by Day Itinerary
Nota Bene: this is a prospective itinerary. It is subject to modest modifications, dependent on local weather, new opportunities, and the desires of the group.
Day 1
Tuesday, October 14
Welcome to Italy! Make your own way to our arrival hotel in central Bari. Have a rest, walk the city, head for a beverage, or explore the neighborhood. Please plan to arrive at our Bari hotel no later that 4:30pm so you have time to settle in before dinner.
This evening we have a welcome dinner together to get to know your group and Miesje.
Meals included: Dinner
Day 2
Wednesday, October 15
As we begin our journey towards southern Puglia and the Salento region, we’ll visit and tour the charming town of Ostuni—a picturesque town often referred to as the "White City" due to its stunning whitewashed buildings that gleam under the sun. Situated on a hill, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding olive groves, rolling countryside, and the Adriatic Sea in the distance. The town’s historical center is a maze of narrow, winding streets, steep stairways, and alleys, which make it a delight to explore. Ostuni’s architecture is a blend of Roman, Byzantine, and medieval influences, with white limestone buildings, arches, and courtyards creating a distinct and cohesive look.
This afternoon’s experience is about so much more than an olive oil tasting—it is a step into the lifeblood of the region, its natural beauty, the people, and the traditions. The olive trees in Puglia are incredibly special, many dating back well over a thousand years in age. You will visit a family-owned, historic estate where you’ll be inspired by the immense passion this region has for olive oil. Enjoy an in-depth tour and taste the extra virgin olive oil with our guide.
We’ll have lunch at the olive farm before we begin our journey south to our villa in Southern Puglia. You’ll have some time to settle into the property before we enjoy dinner at the house together.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3
Thursday, October 16
Today we have a full-day session with Miesje. We begin by getting to know Miesje and her work. Then, you’ll move into an introduction to color theory and how to work with color in your pieces.
This will naturally lead into a learning about pattern design on a small scale and how to translate pattern design principles into beaded work. Through simple drawing exercises you’ll start developing pattern designs and designing layouts for your beaded pieces, which you’ll use throughout the course of our multi-day workshop.
This afternoon you’ll dive into they key techniques of beaded loom weaving. You’ll learn the key techniques and by creating a bracelet sampler using the pattern designs you developed this morning.
Group dinner at the house.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Friday, October 17
Today we venture to the beautiful town of Lecce, known as the “southern Florence” for a morning guided walking tour. Lecce is renowned for its extraordinary Baroque architecture, with elaborate churches, palaces, and piazzas. The intricate detailing and ornate facades are a sight to behold, particularly at landmarks like the Basilica di Santa Croce and the Lecce Cathedral.
This afternoon, we’ll enjoy a local lunch together followed by some free time to shop and explore the city before returning to the house.
Group Dinner at the house.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Saturday, October 18
Today we have another full-day workshop with Miesje. You’ll move away from the loom today and learn the techniques required for ‘herringbone’ stitching with beads.
Working with the pattern and color designs you you developed, you will begin the base of a cylinder-style necklace using this dynamic stitching technique.
Later this afternoon local women from town will come to this house and we will have a traditional pasta making workshop!
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
Sunday, October 19
Today we have another full-day workshop with Miesje where we will continue exploring the herringbone stitch, including how to layer color and texture, to continue creating our cylinder-style necklace.
When we’re ready, we’ll move onto our most complex stitch—the peyote stitch. This dynamic stitch will allow us to create intricate, oscillating patterns, which will serve as the perfect base for making patterned rings and a variety of bracelet designs.
Group Dinner at the house.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Monday, October 20
Let’s explore a little more of Southern Puglia! This morning we’ll stop by the workshop of a local artisan who will share their specialty craft with us.
After lunch, you’ll have a final workshop session with Miesje. Miesje will offer one-on-one support to go over your work and answer any questions you might have. You’ll have time to work on completing your collection and learn about finishing techniques to “close” each piece so they are ready to be worn and shown off!
This evening we have a farewell group dinner at the house celebrating our week together.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8
Tuesday, October 21
Departure day: After breakfast, we say our final goodbyes and head on our way. We will have a group transfer back to Bari, which is approximately a 2-hour drive.
Meals included: Breakfast
Where We’re Staying
Our 16th century property is located in a small town in Southern Puglia. The palazzo was renovated by architect Federico Pace, with refined character while still embracing the roots of a traditional country house. The front of the property faces onto a beautiful town square, its location makes it easily walkable to local bakeries, churches and quiet piazzas. The back of the house features gardens, terraces and a private pool.
ROOMING OPTIONS
There are SIX different styles of rooming on this trip.
Please read the room options and notes below carefully and make your rooming selection on the booking page
Group Size: Minimum 8 guests and maximum 12 guests.
All Prices are in USD.
OPTION 1 - TWIN SHARED ROOM
The fee for this trip is $4,795 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Deposit due immediately to secure your place on the trip: $1995
Final Payment due May 12, 2025: $2800
Room Notes: Shared rooms have two guests total and have two individual beds. You will share a bedroom and ensuite bathroom with one other guest. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
OPTION 2 - SMALL PRIVATE ROOM with separate shared bathroom
The fee for this trip is $5,295 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Deposit due immediately to secure your place on the trip: $1995
Final Payment due May 12, 2025: $3300
Room Notes: In Bari you will have a private room + ensuite for 1 night. In Southern Puglia, you will have a private bedroom + SHARED bathroom with one other guest. At the house in Puglia, your shared bathroom will be located a few steps from your bedroom. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
OPTION 3 - LARGE PRIVATE ROOM with separate shared bathroom
The fee for this trip is $5,395 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Deposit due immediately to secure your place on the trip: $1995
Final Payment due May 12, 2025: $3400
Room Notes: In Bari you will have a private room + ensuite for 1 night. In Southern Puglia, you will have a private room + SHARED bathroom with one other guest. At the house in Puglia, your shared bathroom will be located a few steps from your bedroom. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
OPTION 4 - PRIVATE ROOM with separate private bathroom
The fee for this trip is $5,695 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Deposit due immediately to secure your place on the trip: $1995
Final Payment due May 12, 2025: $3700
Room Notes: You will have a private room + private bathroom for the duration of the trip. At the house in Puglia, your private bathroom will be located a few steps from your bedroom. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
OPTION 5 - STANDARD PRIVATE ROOM with ensuite bathroom
The fee for this trip is $5,895 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Deposit due immediately to secure your place on the trip: $1995
Final Payment due May 12, 2025: $3900
Room Notes: You will have a private room + ensuite bathroom for the duration of the trip. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
OPTION 6 - SUPERIOR PRIVATE ROOM with ensuite bathroom
The fee for this trip is $5,995 per person, paid in two separate installments.
Deposit due immediately to secure your place on the trip: $1995
Final Payment due May 12, 2025: $4000
Room Notes: You will have a private room + ensuite bathroom for the duration of the trip. The style and layout of every room is unique and may not be exactly as pictured.
Important Trip Notes + Details
Culinary Notes
Italy has a very seafood, dairy + gluten focused culinary culture. We cannot accommodate vegan, gluten-free or dairy/egg-free requirements, and some specific allergies. The majority of our meals will be prepared and served at the house family style and there will not be options.
We cannot accommodate any specific dietary allergies if you do not advise us when you register. Please contact us in advance of registering if you have any dietary questions.
Accessibility
Please note this tour includes some walking tours where the ground may be uneven, you may be on your feet for a couple of hours at a time. You should be comfortable walking, standing or sitting for long periods. Our villa property and workshop space have several sets of stairs to reach rooms and no elevator.
Who is this Trip for?
This trip is for the open minded and patient traveler. You should be eager to learn and work hands-on during your workshop session and be curious about regional culture and cuisine.
This is an immersive adventure and best suited for those who enjoy traveling as a part of a small group.
Travel Health
We recommend consulting a doctor, nurse, health care provider, or travel health clinic once we confirm your booking on this Ace Camps Travel trip so you know what may be required based on your individual circumstances and based on the locations you’ll be traveling to. If you have any health concerns, contact your health care provider for advice prior to booking this Ace Camps Travel trip.
Trip Start + End Locations
This trip starts and ends in Bari, Italy.
Bari is serviced by an international airport, also known as Bari International Airport-Karol Wojtyla, located 8 kilometres (4.9 mi) from the city center. If you arrive in another part of Italy you can also take the train to Bari to meet the group here.
On October 21st, there will be one group transfer from our villa in Southern Puglia to the Bari Airport, which is about a two-hour drive.
Weather
October is generally a pleasant time of year to travel to Southern Puglia. Daytime temperatures average around 22°C (72°F) with evenings around 18°C (65°F). Skies are mostly sunny with the chance of showers as the rainy season starts creeping in with the fall colours.
Included in this Trip
Multi-day workshop with Miesje Chafer where you’ll learn the core principles of pattern design on a small scale, including how to work with color, then apply those principles to design and create your own unique jewelry collection, using various beading and weaving techniques
Guided walking tour of historic Lecce with free time to explore the shops and architecture
Pasta making workshop lead by local Italian women
Visit to a local artisans workshop
Beaded workshop supply kit, including a beading loom
Accommodations in a 16th-century, Italian palazzo
Transportation to and from included activities and meals
Return transport from Bari
Dedicated Ace Camps Travel Host, with you throughout your trip
Trip Prep call to meet your fellow travelers and talk through schedules, recommendations and questions
Ace Camps Travel Host
An Ace Camps Travel Host will be with you through your trip, dedicated to ensuring you have the best possible experience. Your Host is there for any questions or concerns, to look out for the health and safety of the group and to help resolve any issues that might arise. This Host is not a local guide but will work with our local partners to insure the right combination of pace, information, and duration. Our local partners are deeply knowledgable in the culture and customs of the area and will be there to share their knowledge and passion with the group.
Not Included in this Trip
International roundtrip airfare; required Travel Insurance; alcoholic drinks; activities and food and beverages not included in the trip itinerary; hotel incidentals including but not limited to room service, laundry service and hotel bar tabs; and all expenses during free time.
Travel Arrangements
Ace Camps Travel will send you detailed Trip Planning information when it’s time to make your travel arrangements. We usually send this information once we’ve reached the minimum number of guests required to run the trip. We’ll also send you an Ace Camps Travel “Preparing for your Journey” document prior to your trip, which will include arrival and departure information, a suggested packing list, useful country information, and more.
Supplies
Most supplies for your workshop will be provided but you will need to bring a couple of things of your own. An additional small workshop supply list will be sent to you prior to your departure. All items will be easy to travel with.
Questions + FAQ’s
If you have any questions about this Ace Camps travel Trip, please feel free to contact us.
You can also read our FAQ’s here.
Travel Insurance
As stated in our Terms and Conditions, we require all guests to have Travel Insurance that at minimum covers both medical emergencies and trip cancellations. Cancellations 180 days or fewer prior to the trip start date will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the price for the trip. There are no exceptions to this cancellation policy which is one of the many reasons we require all guests to have Travel Insurance.
For full details on our Travel Insurance requirements, visit our FAQ’s and review ourTerms and Conditions.
Health + Safety
Our goal is for each of our guests to enjoy the amazing trip we’ve put together. To ensure that happens, we put the health and safety of the group as our top priority. Individual guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all destination and layover country requirements and laws, including any Covid-19 related requirements, providing proof of vaccination, testing before or after entry, masking, etc.
During the trip, if you feel unwell, exhibit signs of, or test positive for an illness, you should be prepared to follow the advice of local health authorities as well as the Ace Camps Travel Host to ensure the health and safety of the entire group. Depending on the severity of your symptoms and/or viral nature of your illness the Ace Camps Travel Host may determine you need to mask, distance, self isolate, or depart the trip early. You are responsible for any expenses incurred from an illness, injury, or early departure including testing, treatment, isolation, accommodation, transportation, etc. and you will not be issued a refund for any unused portion of the trip. This is one of the many reasons we require all guests to have Travel Insurance, as outlined in our Terms and Conditions.
For full details on our Health and Safety Policies, visit our FAQ’s and review our Terms and Conditions.
Cancellation Policy
If you choose to cancel your trip for any reason, you must do so via email to hello@acecampstravel.com. If we receive written notice 181 or more days prior to the Trip start date, we will refund your initial payment, less a $1,000 cancellation fee. If we receive written notice 180 days or fewer prior to the Trip start date you will incur a cancellation fee equal to 100% of the price for the Trip. There are no exceptions to this cancellation policy, including for reasons related to weather, terrorism, civil strife, pandemics, illness, personal, family or medical emergencies, or any other circumstances beyond our control. For this and other reasons, we require you to purchase Travel Insurance.
Be sure to read our Terms and Conditions for full details on Booking and Payment, Cancellation by You and Trip Changes and Cancellations.