A 7-Day Textile Art Retreat with Master Artist Lauretta Crites in Enchanting Porto
September 6-12, 2026
Turn Your Unique Travel Photo Into Stunning Art
Join me, Lauretta Crites, for 7 transformative days in Porto, where I'll teach you my techniques for creating museum-quality art from your memories.
Only 6 spots available – Hotel Castelo accommodations included
Are You Ready to Say Yes to Your Creative Dreams?
You love to explore your artistic side, and you love to travel, but wish you could bring home more than just photos. You're ready for an experience that combines learning, adventure, and personal growth—something that feeds your soul, not just fills your schedule.
Picture this: You're standing on the iconic Ponte Luis bridge at golden hour, camera in hand, capturing the ancient terracotta rooftops cascading down to the shimmering Douro River. Poised to turn your unique photo into a personal work of art – with my guidance.
This wll change everything
This isn't a typical tour—this is staying with a friend who is so excited to show you her city. Every excursion is something I really enjoy, you’ll experience the best of the city I love and can't wait to share with you!
This Isn't Just Another Art Class or Tourist Trip
Your accommodation is part of the magic—staying on the grounds of a beautiful castle built in the late 1800s in the heart of Porto. Our classroom and stunning breakfast room are in the heart of the castle itself.
Stay at an Actual 19th-Century Castle
I bring the skills that have been showcased on TV and in magazine features to your personal instruction—this is the expertise you can't get anywhere else.
Learn from an Expert
Space Is Intentionally Limited. Only 6 guests will experience this magic together Get personal attention impossible in larger groups. I'll know your preferences before you arrive so I can tailor the experience just for you.
Intimate Group of 6
Experience Porto like a local, not a tourist. You'll get an insider's view and learn how we Portuguese really live.
Insider Access
Learn my method to turn photographs into amazing works of art—a technique you'll use forever.
Take Home Lifelong Skills
From port tastings to river cruising, everything's handled. This is bespoke—taking your interests and weaving them into a unique event.
Leave the Planning to Me
“Lauretta is very patient and explained the technique in an easy and understandable way. I really enjoyed the class. Thank you.”
- Fran Conroy – California
“I do not normally enjoy classes, I feel pressure with time and self-conscious, but I would take another class with Lauretta tomorrow if I could. You can tell from her samples that she is truly knowledgeable and has passion. I loved the way she gave individual attention to everyone.”
-Beverly Thomas – Arizona
Meet Lauretta Crites
Your Guide to Artistic Transformation
Quilting Arts Magazine
Art Quilting Studio Magazine
IQA Festival Journal
Quilters Newsletter Magazine
Regular guest on Quilting Arts TV
Featured on The Quilt Show
15+ Years Teaching Experience
I hold a bachelor’s degree from California Institute of the Arts and have extensive teaching experience, including Houston Quilt Festival, Road to California, Quilt Show Reno, and many, many guilds. I know how to translate what I do in a way that is accessible and fun. I am a 4-time guest on Quilting Arts TV. My work has been published in Quilters Newsletter Magazine, IQA Journal, Quilting Arts Magazine and has been featured on The Quilt Show. My art quilts have won awards at IQA Houston Festival, The Road to California Quilt Show, Pacific International Quilt Festival, and more.
In 2024, I left California for my new home in Porto, Portugal, and I can’t wait to share all the beauty and excitement I have discovered here with you. After settling into this incredible city, I have enjoyed the freedom to refine the very techniques that I was invited to demonstrate on Quilting Arts TV, with additional secrets I didn’t share on the show. Techniques that will revolutionize how you think about photo-to-art conversion.
Now, I'm sharing these secrets with just 6 exceptional women in an intimate, transformative art experience and travel adventure.
“I believe creating is a pathway to joy and I love helping you tap into that joy”
Your Complete 7-Day Transformation
6 nights of modern comfort on the grounds of a stunning late-1800s castle
Meals featuring Portuguese specialties
Welcome reception and farewell dinner
Airport transfers included
Castle Grounds Accommodations
Exclusive photo-to-textile art technique
Create your unique Porto souvenir art piece
Hands-on instruction with personal attention
All materials and supplies included
Tips for completing your artwork at home
Master Class (5 Days)
Be among the first to see “Transplanted” my solo exhibit
Personally guided gallery tour and discussion of the art
Be invited inside my home and studio
Exclusive Access
Local Professional guides
Small group guarantee (max 6 guests)
Personalized experience
Regional specialty lunches and dinners
VIP Treatment
Private guided city tour with me
Walk over iconic Ponte Luis I bridge
São Bento train station (famous azulejo tiles)
Lunch at legendary Café Majestic
Bolsa Palace visit
Cultural Experiences
Bolhão Market tasting experience
Port wine cellar visit with tastings
Cruise on the Douro River
Try a Nata pastry from my favorite shop
Learn how azulejo tile relates to quilting history
“Lauretta is very personable and showed she cared that everyone understood the process. She set us up for success.”
- Laurie Zarick - Nevada
“Lauretta was very helpful with each student’s project – how to look at it and take apart the picture. I really loved the class and how she described the values needed.”
- Joalyn Mushin - California
Only 6 Spots Available - Here's Why;
I intentionally keep groups small so you’ll receive:
Personalized attention - I work directly with each student
Intimate learning - Questions get answered immediately
Authentic experiences - Small groups access places large tours cannot
Lasting friendships - Deep connections form naturally
Better results - You'll accomplish more in one week than a month of regular classes
Current availability: 6 spots remaining
30-Day Money-Back Guarantee
Day 1 – Arrival
The enchanting city of Porto will be your playground for a spectacular week of immersive learning and adventuring. Upon arrival at the Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport (OPO), you’ll be met by your driver and delivered to the heart of Porto, and the historic Castelo you will be calling home for the week to come. After check-in and time to settle into your lovely room. You will have a bit of time to explore the beautiful grounds or wander out into the city, where you can bask in the European lifestyle, visit a café or stroll in the nearby park, maybe even capture a photo that will be the perfect subject for your artwork to come. In the evening, we will gather for a welcome dinner. Here you will connect with the women joining you, your fellow adventurers and new friends.
Day 2 – Capturing a Moment
This morning, after breakfast, a private van and our local guide will take us around the city on a driving tour. We’ll be stopping at some of the most iconic places in Porto, soaking in the blend of old-world charm and contemporary energy. We will walk over the famous Ponte Luis I bridge for a breathtaking view of the city and the sweeping Douro River. From this vantage point you can see the Port warehouses and the traditional rabelo boats that transported the Port barrels from the vineyards. We will visit the bustling riverfront, known as the Ribera, and visit Sao Bento train station to view the stunning azulejos tiles scenes that line its walls. You will be guided in taking photos that will not only document your journey but become the foundation of your learning experience this week. Lunch will be an opportunity to relax and refuel while experiencing traditional Portuguese cuisine. Following lunch, you will learn about the beverage that gave Porto its fame, Port wine. You’ll enjoy a tour of a Port wine cellar followed by a tasting several varieties of this complex, historic spirit. After your education in Port Wine, we will gather back at the Castelo, in a delightful room full of period detail that will serve as our studio for the week. As you excitedly view and share your photos, you’ll receive hands-on guidance in selecting your personal favorite from among your best photo options, choosing the one that will become your own unique piece of art and special memory. Tonight, you will enjoy dinner on your own from among the many options Porto has to offer.
Day 3- The Flavor of Porto
This morning, after breakfast, you’ll head to our studio for a focused art session – a time of inspiration, instruction, and creative flow – as you experience firsthand my technique for creating photo realistic images and bringing your photo to life on fabric. Lunch will be at a charming café before visiting the opulent Palacio da Bolsa, famed for its lavish Arabian Hall and grand neoclassical architecture. Following our tour we’ll head to the Bolhão Market, a must-see dating back to 1839 with vendors selling fresh produce, meat, fish and flowers. Here, with a glass of port in hand, you will enjoy a relaxed stroll while sampling some of Portugal’s traditional meats and cheeses. You’ll top off today’s flavor exploration with a pastel de nata – a tasty Portuguese sweet treat – from my favorite shop, Manteigaria, where you can watch them being made fresh all day long. This central market location is the perfect springboard for sightseeing and, if you have any room left, dinner or a plate of petiscos (Portuguese tapas) on your own. .
Day 4 – Art Immersion
This morning after breakfast, you will return to the studio to continue to develop your photo realistic fabric art. I will guide you through my signature techniques, offering expert insight into the highlights and shading that create depth and dimension in your work – skills that will uplevel your artistic expression and bring your piece vividly to life. Lunch today will be across the river in the neighboring city of Vila Nova de Gaia followed by a visit to my home and studio. You’ll get a close-up look at how I organize my workspace while I share my favorite tips and tricks. Then I will take you on a personal tour of my solo show “Transplanted” at Espaco Quadrasoltas Gallery. You’ll see my most recent work up close and learn the stories that inspired each piece. With your excitement freshly fired up we will return to our Castelo studio and spend a bit more time on our art pieces, then the evening is yours to enjoy.
Day 5 – A Taste of History
This morning after breakfast you’ll be back in the studio – your project deeply developed now. You will be basking in the thrill of your newly developed skills, excited to move your pictorial art piece towards its completion, building on everything you’ve learned. Today we will lunch locally then, refueled and refreshed, we will return to our project in the studio. With a feeling of accomplishment, we’ll head to the marina where we will board a yacht and travel on the river that is the traditional route of Port wine, the Douro. You will experience Porto’s famous bridges (including one built by Eiffel!) from a new vantage point. Being on the water creates a peaceful and romantic way to take in the scenery of both Porto and Gaia savoring a glass of wine as you glide along this legendary waterway. You’ll dine tonight like a local, on fresh regional seafood, paired with a glass of crisp vinho verde or branco .
Day 6 – Ladies Choice
This morning you will be able to go at your own pace, sleep in a bit or get up early and check an item off your bucket list, the choice is yours. You will have the leisure to see an attraction that calls to your heart, or shop ‘till you drop. Lunch is on your own, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. In the afternoon we will have our final wrap-up session in the classroom reviewing everything you’ve learned this week and reflecting on our creative journey together. As the day draws to a close, we’ll gather for a celebratory bebida and farewell dinner at a local restaurante and salute the new friendships you have forged and the rich memories we have made during this unforgettable week.
Day 7 – Departure
Hotel breakfast and transport to Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport. You’ll return home with your original art piece and memories of an unforgettable journey.
“Lauretta is very supportive and encouraging, she made everyone feel this was doable. I would tell a friend, yes, take a class with Lauretta, it’s fun.”
- Paula Stow - California
“Lauretta gives personal instruction and feedback, meeting students at their level. Very worthwhile!”
- Dale Stuart- California
Frequently Asked Questions
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Absolutely not! My method works for everyone. Complete beginners will master the fundamentals. More seasoned art quilters will advance their skills with a group of like-minded souls. And, if you aren’t a quilter at all, I will show you how to mount your art piece with no sewing required. If you can take a photo, you can create beautiful art.
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No problem! I speak English, and all guides are bilingual. Plus, art is a universal language.
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Just your camera (or smartphone) and enthusiasm! All art supplies are provided. I'll send packing suggestions upon registration.
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Traveling in Europe does require a certain level of fitness. You will need to be able to walk and manage short flights of stairs. Certain activities can be adjusted to accommodate mobility concerns. A fitness interests and concerns survey will be sent after registration so I can adjust excursions as needed.
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Porto enjoys mild weather year-round. I'll provide seasonal guidance closer to your travel date.
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Our booking process is easy. Simply click the save my spot button and send and email request. I will send you registration information. Once your deposit is received, we’ll send along an official confirmation by email.
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Prices are listed in Euro’s you can convert to your currency there are many online currency converters
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Portuguese culture is inseparably entwined with its food. Lunches and Dinners are carefully selected and menus feature regional dishes made of fresh, locally grown ingredients. Portuguese food is deeply influenced by their historic travels, showcasing the best of meats and fish without heavy spices. Breakfast at the hotel features hot dishes like eggs and sausage as well as continental favorites. Porto also has many international cuisines available to select from during lunches and dinners on your own. Most dietary preferences can be accommodated.
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The Portuguese eat late, typically starting at 8:30 – 9pm. Some of you will prefer to eat early and then curl up with your journal. Those who live to pack full every minute will love exploring Porto at night. September usually brings beautiful balmy nights, and Porto is safe and lovely after dark. Some, like me, prefer to eat twice a day and after the hotel’s bountiful breakfast and our hearty lunch’s may choose to enjoy just a snack or skip dinner altogether. Scheduling only key dinners as a group allows for this kind of personal flexibility. There is a restaurant at the hotel and many within a short walk.
Your Artistic Adventure Starts With One Click
Stop dreaming about "someday" and make it happen.
In just 7 days with me, you'll:
Develop an art technique you can use for life
Experience Portugal through an insider's eyes
Create meaningful friendships with fellow adventurers
Return home with skills, stories, and stunning artwork
Only 6 spots available. Your castle awaits
September 6-12, 2026
Our Creative Adventure Awaits
Porto is calling. Your artistic soul is ready. I am waiting to welcome you to the city that changed my life.
The only question is: Are you ready to answer?
Reserve your space now— claim your place in a circle of women who value art, adventure, and authentic experience.
September 6-12, 2026
Early Bird Pricing 4975 Euro
save 400 Euro thru March 1
Payment plans available
Just a $750 deposit secures your spot
discover, voyage, dream, adventure
6 night stay on the grounds of a beautiful castle built in the late 1800’s in the heart of Porto
Small class personalized art instruction
City driving tour with guide
Port Cellar visit with Port wine tasting
Exclusive art studio and home tour
Bolsa Palace visit and tour
Bolhao Market tour with tasting and port wine
Gallery visit and private tour
City walking tour including Ponte Luis I bridge for a panoramic view of Porto and the Douro River
Visit the iconic Sao Bento train station with its stunning blue tile scenes
Metro lesson
Nata from Mangarita
Sunset cruise on the Douro River
6 Breakfasts
4 Lunches and 3 dinners featuring regional specialties
Secure booking
Payment plans
available
30-day money-back guarantee
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