Block printing and blue pottery classes for visitors

This business runs short hands-on classes. Visitors print their own scarf or cushion cover with carved wooden blocks, or paint a blue pottery tile. Classes last two to four hours. A local artisan teaches, with a host who speaks the visitor's language. Printed pieces go home the same day. Pottery must be fired first, so you post it or keep it for the next day.

Jaipur is a UNESCO World Heritage walled city and one of India's most visited cities, with forts, palaces and bazaars that draw Indian and foreign tourists. Its crafts are close by: block printing in Sanganer and Bagru, and blue pottery. Many visitors buy these crafts but few see them made.

You need a clean room near the tourist routes, printing tables, blocks and dyes, a small kiln or a tie-up with a potter who fires for you, and a wash area. Register under the shops and establishments law and for GST. The hard parts are season and competition. Most tourists come in the cooler months and summer is quiet, so save for the lean months. Some artisans already run classes, so yours must be better run and easier to book. Pay artisans fairly and on time.

Find guests through hotels, guesthouses, local guides, booking websites and social media. School and office groups can fill weekdays.