São Marcos da Serra
Hand-painted textiles, wood, canvas, cross-stitch, souvenirs and handmade decorative pieces
Entre Agulhas e Pinturas — which translates to Between Needles and Paintings — is a craft studio in Sao Marcos da Serra run by a local artisan who works across several traditional and decorative techniques. The focus is on hand-painted textiles, wood, and canvas, alongside detailed cross-stitch embroidery. Each piece is made by hand, and no two are exactly alike.
The work ranges from practical items like painted table linens and decorative wooden pieces to more artistic canvas paintings and framed cross-stitch designs. The style draws on both traditional Portuguese motifs and the natural landscape of the Algarvian serra — expect warm colours, floral patterns, and designs that reflect the rural life of the region. These are handmade items with genuine character, not mass-produced souvenirs.
For Hillside Sanctuary guests, Entre Agulhas e Pinturas offers a chance to see a local artisan at work and to pick up something truly handmade from the village. The studio is in Sao Marcos da Serra, so it is easy to visit during a morning exploring the village. If you are interested in craft, textile arts, or simply want a unique piece to remember your stay by, this is a rewarding stop.
The artisan behind the studio is approachable and happy to talk about her techniques and inspiration. Prices are reasonable for handmade work, and you can sometimes see pieces in progress. It is a small operation — if you want to visit, ask at the sanctuary about current opening hours or arrange a visit in advance.
