Fergana Valley offers many different options to visit handicraft workshops and meet the artisans, including sometimes with the possibility of taking a master class to learn from them directly. Many of our CTN Artisan Members offer this option, in addition to being able to see their artistic studio and shop. When you buy direct from the artisan, you are not only supporting their family, but also the passing on of traditional handicrafts from one generation to the next.

A few recommended handicraft workshops or stores include the following. Be sure to get in touch or book in advance if you want to do a tour or master class. Our CTN Tour Guides or Tour Operators can help you with organizing visits to handicraft workshops.  

• Margilan, Fergana Region: The Margilan Handicrafts Development Center (run by a CTN Member) and Yodgorlik Silk Factory offer tours and an opportunity to see the centuries old handmade silk-making and weaving process that makes beautiful ikat fabrics as well as other designs.
• Rishtan, Fergana Region: There are many options in Rishtan to learn about this famous school of ceramics and how some of the artisans are bringing back the traditional natural dyes and designs. CTN Member Diyorbek Nazirov has his studio as part of the International Ceramics Center (and he also has a guest house upstairs) and is a great storyteller to explain the meanings and symbolism of his designs. In addition, Alisher Nazirov, Rustam Rishtan and Mingboshi all offer different types of tours and master classes in addition to a sales room.
• Shakrikhan and Chust: In addition to visiting “Knife Alley” in the local markets in Chust and Shakrikhan, Fergana Valley’s two historic knifemaking towns, you can also arrange in advance to visit the knifemaking masters at work. CTN Member Muzaffar Umarov in Shakhrikhan is a dynamic storyteller in addition to making beautiful knifes that are pieces of art.
• Craft House in Fergana City offers an opportunity to see different artisans at work as well as buy their handicrafts.