In the Charentes, proudly recognised as a CreativeFriendlyDestination, some artisans stand out for the way they weave together creativity, transmission, and a deeply human approach to craftsmanship. Sandrou Coud, founder of the Bar à Couture, is one of these key figures shaping the region’s contemporary creative identity. Her workshop is more than a sewing studio — it is a warm, inclusive space where textile craftsmanship becomes a shared experience, a moment of connection, and a celebration of local savoir‑faire.
At the Bar à Couture, sewing is demystified, made accessible, joyful, and rooted in the values that define the Charentes: authenticity, conviviality, and creativity. Sandrou welcomes visitors of all ages and levels, guiding them through the pleasure of making something with their own hands. Her approach reflects the essence of creative tourism: meaningful encounters, hands‑on learning, and the discovery of a territory through the people who bring it to life.
Through her participatory workshops, Sandrou contributes to a vibrant ecosystem of artisans who collectively reinforce the Charentes’ reputation as a destination where creativity is lived, shared, and celebrated.
How does your work connect with the principles of creative tourism?
My Bar à Couture naturally fits within a creative tourism approach by offering a place dedicated to discovery, learning, and sharing around sewing.
Visitors don’t just observe — they participate, create, and experience the craft from the inside. It’s a space where creativity becomes accessible and where textile craftsmanship is transmitted in a simple, authentic way.
What does your creative tourism offer consist of?
I offer participatory sewing workshops that are accessible to all levels.
Participants create their own textile accessory — a pouch, a bag, reusable wipes, a bowl cover, and more — guided step by step in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Each workshop ends with a finished creation to take home, a tangible reminder of a moment of creativity, transmission, and local craftsmanship.
What opportunities has creative tourism opened for your practice?
Creative tourism is a wonderful opportunity to showcase my know‑how, highlight artisanal sewing, and attract curious visitors looking for meaningful local experiences.
It allows me to diversify my activity and to create connections between residents and visitors through shared creativity.
Creative tourism is a wonderful opportunity to showcase my know‑how, highlight artisanal sewing, and attract curious visitors looking for meaningful local experiences
In your view, what does creative tourism bring to the territory?
It shines a light on local talent and offers a different way to discover the Charentes — more human, more immersive, and more authentic.
Creative tourism strengthens the identity of the territory, supports the local economy, and promotes artisanal savoir‑faire while encouraging genuine encounters.
In one word, how would you define the cultural DNA of the Charentes?
Authenticity. A territory where art de vivre, conviviality, and creativity come together to offer experiences that are simple, genuine, and inspiring.
More about
Charentes, CreativeFriendlyDestination
