Sengkurong might not be the first place that comes to mind for hands-on workshops, but it’s actually a hidden treasure for those wanting to learn traditional crafts and creative skills. The region offers unique opportunities to dive into local artistry, with classes that appeal to all levels of experience. We’re especially fond of the Mother of Pearl Lazy Susan Crafting Workshop, which combines cultural tradition with practical souvenir making, and the Letter Weaving Workshop, perfect for those wanting a fun, beginner-friendly experience. Whether you’re interested in fine inlay work or playful weaving, Sengkurong’s workshops provide authentic, memorable experiences.
If you’re curious about making your own keepsake or exploring local craftsmanship, you’re in for a treat. These classes aren’t just about honing skills—they offer a window into the rich artisan culture of Brunei, with plenty of options suited to different budgets and interests. Read on to see which workshop suits your travel style best.
Quick Overview
In this guide, you’ll find four top workshops in Sengkurong that stand out for their uniqueness, affordability, and hands-on approach. You can learn traditional Mother of Pearl inlay techniques in the Lazy Susan or large artwork workshops, craft a personalized decorative letter with colorful threads or seagrass, or create a functional placemat with natural shells. Each offers a chance to take home a handcrafted item and gain insight into local craft traditions. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Brunei: Mother of Pearl Lazy Susan Crafting Workshop
At number 1 on our list is the Mother of Pearl Lazy Susan Crafting Workshop — a perfect choice for travelers eager to try traditional Bruneian craft. Priced at just $23 per person, this class is not only budget-friendly but also rich in cultural value. During this hands-on experience, guided by local artisans, you’ll learn the traditional inlay process that has been passed down through generations.
The workshop focuses on creating your own Mother of Pearl Lazy Susan, which makes for a beautiful, functional souvenir. The artisans will teach you inlay techniques, including how to carefully set the shimmering shells into a wooden base, ensuring each piece reflects the craftsmanship of Brunei. This class is ideal for those who want a tangible connection to local traditions without breaking the bank. Plus, taking home your crafted Lazy Susan offers a practical keepsake for your home.
Bottom Line: This workshop combines affordability, culture, and the chance to create a unique, functional object. It’s especially suitable for travelers short on time but eager to experience local arts firsthand.
$23 per person
2. Brunei: Mother of Pearl Art Workshop
Next up is the Mother of Pearl Art Workshop, which provides a chance to create a larger, decorative masterpiece. For around $54 per person, you’ll learn design, arrangement, and mounting techniques from seasoned experts. This class is more involved than the Lazy Susan workshop and results in a ready-to-hang artwork that can become a centerpiece in your home.
This workshop lets you choose from colorful or neutral shell tones, allowing you to match your personal style. You’ll experiment with pattern planning and layering, giving you a deeper understanding of the artistic process behind mother-of-pearl crafting. The instructors emphasize technique and composition, guiding you through every step of creating a vibrant, eye-catching piece. As you work, you’ll gain a new appreciation for the skill required, making the finished art more meaningful.
Reviews might be limited, but this class’s focus on large-scale design and technical mastery makes it perfect for creative travelers and art lovers. The value for money lies in the opportunity to produce a high-quality, handmade piece that’s ready for display.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a more detailed and artistic experience, this workshop results in a stunning piece of art you’ll be proud to display or gift.
$54 per person
3. Brunei: Letter Weaving Workshop with Materials
On a different note, the Letter Weaving Workshop offers a fun and accessible craft for all ages. At just $11 per person for 1.5 hours, it’s a budget-friendly way to get creative with colorful threads or natural seagrass. In this workshop, you’ll design your own decorative letter, learning simple weaving techniques that are suitable even for complete beginners.
What makes this experience stand out is its personalized approach—you pick your letter and your preferred materials, creating a custom piece that can be used as home decor or a gift. The hands-on nature and straightforward instructions make it a great choice for families, friends, or solo travelers wanting a quick, rewarding activity. The finished product is a charming decorative letter that embodies your personal style.
Reviews highlight how enjoyable and easy this workshop is, making it ideal for those who want a creative break without a steep learning curve. Plus, the low price ensures it’s a fantastic value.
Bottom Line: This workshop suits anyone looking for a simple, fun craft project that produces a personalized souvenir—perfect for gifting or home decoration.
$11 per person
4. Brunei: Mother of Pearl Placemat Workshop
Finally, the Mother of Pearl Placemat Workshop offers a relaxing, creative session that results in a beautiful, functional placemat. For $22 per person and a duration of about 2 hours, this class is perfect for beginners and those seeking a low-pressure craft experience.
In this workshop, you’ll learn layout techniques, gluing, and finishing steps from experienced instructors. You can choose from various colors and shapes, letting you customize your placemat to match your home or personal aesthetic. The process emphasizes layout and glueing techniques, helping you understand how to assemble natural shell pieces into an attractive design.
This activity is well-suited for travelers who want a relaxing, hands-on experience without a complicated process. The end product, a handmade placemat, makes a practical and decorative souvenir to take home. The value lies in crafting a functional household item with a personal touch.
Bottom Line: A great choice for beginners and those who enjoy a calm, creative project that results in a usable, beautiful item.
$22 per person
How to Choose the Right Workshop for You
When selecting a workshop in Sengkurong, consider your budget, time constraints, and personal interests. If you want a cost-effective introduction to local craft, the Lazy Susan workshop offers a quick and meaningful experience. For a more artistic project, the Mother of Pearl Art Workshop provides a chance to produce a display-worthy piece. If you’re looking for something fun and low-stakes, the Letter Weaving Workshop is perfect. And for travelers desiring a relaxing, hands-on activity with a practical outcome, the Mother of Pearl Placemat Workshop hits the spot.
Keep in mind that booking early is advisable, especially for the more popular sessions or weekends. Each experience provides a different way to engage with Brunei’s craft traditions, making any choice a memorable part of your trip.
In summary, Sengkurong offers diverse workshops that cater to different interests and skill levels. Whether you prefer the intricate inlay work of the Mother of Pearl Lazy Susan, the creative freedom of the artwork workshop, the simplicity of letter weaving, or the relaxing nature of placemat making, there’s a class for you. For those looking to bring home a piece of Brunei craftsmanship, these hands-on experiences will add a meaningful touch to your travels. Be sure to plan ahead and book early — these workshops are small, authentic, and popular for good reason.