On our visit to Tamarindo, Costa Rica, we stopped by Urban Electric Jewelry, a charming studio tucked into the town center. Owned and run by jeweler Tricia Espinoza, the boutique combines local creativity with hands-on craftsmanship and offers visitors an immersive jewelry-making experience.
Tricia has earned a reputation as a dedicated fine jewelry maker who loves sharing the craft of handmade pieces. Her shop functions as more than a retail space—it’s a place where local artists can display and sell jewelry, leather goods, paintings, ceramics, soaps, and photography, reflecting the community’s artistic talent.
Situated in the Tamarindo Circle next to the Surf Shack Restaurant, the studio highlights Tricia’s own jewelry alongside a curated selection from fellow artisans. The result is a welcoming showcase of local work and a genuine sense of place.
I stepped into Urban Electric Jewelry and was greeted by a warm, relaxed atmosphere and neatly arranged displays of handcrafted items. The space felt cozy and approachable. Tricia introduced herself with an inviting smile, setting a comfortable tone for the workshop ahead.
She opened the class by outlining the process and the materials available. Each participant creates one piece during the session, choosing from sheet metal, wire, beads, stones, chains, and leather. Options and tools are provided to suit a variety of styles and skill levels.
Tricia’s instruction was encouraging and clear, giving me the freedom to select the elements that felt right for my design. Her teaching style makes the craft accessible to beginners and enjoyable for more experienced makers.
The hands-on portion began with a demonstration of basic tools—hammers, cutters, and punches—followed by guided practice. Tricia explained each step simply and patiently, and her enthusiasm for jewelry making was evident throughout.
As I worked, I found a steady rhythm in shaping, stamping, and texturing metal under Tricia’s guidance. The relaxed pace allowed room for experimentation and personal expression, turning simple materials into a unique piece that felt like my own.
Throughout the session, Tricia shared practical tips, background on techniques, and stories from her journey as a maker. The class emphasized both the technical skills and the artistic intent behind each choice, so the experience felt educational as well as creative.
By the end of the class I was holding a bracelet I had made from start to finish. It was more than a souvenir—it was a small keepsake that captured the time spent learning and creating in the studio.
If you’re in Tamarindo and want a memorable, creative activity, a jewelry-making class with Tricia at Urban Electric Jewelry is a great choice. The session offers hands-on instruction, insight into local craftsmanship, and the chance to leave with a piece you helped design and make. It’s an enjoyable way to spend a morning and connect with the local arts scene.