JOURNÉES DES MÉTIERS D'ART - PRINTEMPS DES MANUFACTURES

The Manufacture de la Savonnerie de Lodève is taking part in the first edition of "Printemps des Manufactures", a national event dedicated to craftsmanship, organized by Manufactures nationales - Sèvres & Mobilier national, as part of the Journées Européennes des Métiers d?Art 2026.

The "Printemps des Manufactures" showcases the wealth of expertise in the crafts by bringing together art technicians and the public.

PROGRAM :
- Friday April 10 - Round-table evening: Soapmaking today (reservation required).
What is the history of the soap carpet in France and in Lodève, how did the Lodève textile school come into being, and what do textile arts mean today?
For the past 2 years, the Lodève factory has been hosting a CAP Art Textile course that introduces students to the practice of soapmaking. In a round-table discussion with instructors, liciers and students, we'll discover what the school teaches and how it applies to current and future artistic projects at the Manufactures Nationales-Sèvres and mobilier National.

- Saturday April 11 - Open House.
Discover the workshop of the Manufacture Nationale de la Savonnerie de Lodève.
Since 1966, Lodève has been home to the only annex of the Manufacture Nationale de la Savonnerie carpet factory. In this arts and crafts workshop, exceptional carpets are woven for the highest offices of the French Republic. Liciers perpetuate a weaving practice that dates back over four centuries, for both classic and contemporary creations. Come and discover a place where time is measured in loom falls, and where the work of the hand is virtuoso!

- Saturday April 11 - Introductory soap weaving workshops (booking required).
Discovery workshops are led by licières.
After discovering the workshop and observing the carpets being made, it's time to experiment! With the help of looms, learn about weaving and the knotted-stitch technique, the passage of wool between warp threads and create your own reproductions of carpet motifs.


The 1st edition of this event mobilizes the Manufactures nationales network and sites, as well as the ecosystem of their partners, to reach out to young audiences, the general public and professionals throughout France.

In collaboration with Pays d'art et d'histoire Lodévois Larzac, the Manufacture will be offering tours of the textile arts school, weaving initiations, school visits, a round table and an open day.