Tour of the Fontenille Pataud cutlery workshop
Discover the Unique World of Exceptional Cutlery
Dive into the heart of our workshop and enjoy an immersive experience at Fontenille Pataud, a fine cutlery house since 1929.
Online Booking
Reservations are mandatory to secure your spot. Check availability and book now through our online platform. Secure payment ensures you can plan your visit with peace of mind.
For visits outside the available time slots or for groups of more than 10 people, please contact the workshop directly at +33 (0)4 73 80 18 34.
Detailed Visit Program: A Multisensory Experience
1. Welcome and Introduction
• Presentation of Thiers: Discover why this valley is the cradle of cutlery, along with the history of its growth and evolution.
• History of Fontenille-Pataud: A lively presentation of the company’s development, accompanied by videos and symbolic objects to spark your curiosity.
2. Immersion in Raw Materials
• Interactive Exploration: Discover the components of knives (blades and handles) through tactile interactive panels and samples. Feel the texture of wood, metal, and the noble materials used in our creations.
• Sensory Game: Guess some materials using your senses, a playful way to dive into the world of exceptional materials.
3. Manufacturing Stages
• Knife Assembly: Witness the meticulous process of knife assembly.
• Live Demonstration: Enjoy demonstrations with detailed explanations to understand the techniques and tools used.
• File Work Workshop: Try your hand at this emblematic engraving step with a guide, and experience the care and patience required for each engraving.
4. The Art of Polishing
• Polishing Process: Learn about the successive stages, from the coarsest grain to the finest finishes.
• Sound Vibration: Feel the rhythm of polishing by hearing the distinctive sounds of the machines and polishing wheels.
• Quality Control: See how each piece is meticulously inspected to ensure a flawless product.
5. Care Guide and Shop
• Care Tips: Learn best practices for maintaining your knives.
• Boutique Moment: Explore and purchase unique pieces or accessories in our dedicated space.
Practical Information
• Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
• Languages: French and English.
• Accessibility: Suitable for people with reduced mobility.
• Group Size: Up to 10 people for a personalized experience.
• Free Parking: Located near the workshop.
• Boutique Discount: Your ticket price is deductible from any shop purchase.
Pricing
• Free for children under 5 years old.
• Children (6–11 years): €6.
• Youth and adults (12 years and older): €10.
Location
Fontenille Pataud
73 Avenue Joseph Claussat,
63300 Thiers, France
Phone: +33 (0)4 73 80 18 34
Supported by the Auvergne Rhône-Alpes Region, we invite you to discover our artisanal expertise through a craft tourism initiative.
What to Do in Thiers?
After your visit to Fontenille Pataud, make the most of your time in Thiers by exploring everything this birthplace of cutlery has to offer. Here are some ideas to enrich your day:
1. Vallée des Usines
Take a hike in this former industrial site nestled in nature. Discover surprising landscapes blending history and the environment, with old hydraulic factories transformed by time. Don’t miss, just a few steps from our workshop:
• The Museum of Contemporary Art – Creux de l’Enfer.
2. Museum of Cutlery
Explore the history and traditions of Thiers' cutlery through fascinating collections of tools, knives, and artisanal demonstrations. A complementary dive into local craftsmanship.
Address: 23 Rue de la Coutellerie, 63300 Thiers.
3. Old Town of Thiers
Stroll through the medieval streets of the old town, with its half-timbered houses and authentic atmosphere.
4. Livradois-Forez Regional Natural Park
Just a few minutes from Thiers, explore this natural park, ideal for hiking enthusiasts and lovers of nature and breathtaking landscapes.