Funchal is the right city for an introduction to Madeira embroidery because design, hand stitching, finishing and certified production can be explained in their local system.
In a genuine workshop, the embroiderer gives you fabric and thread, demonstrates a manageable stitch or motif, watches your hand position and tension, and corrects the first attempt. You repeat it before moving on. A small sample is a better promise than a finished commercial piece.
Current direct workshop information can name a schedule, price and kit, but those details must be checked for the chosen date. Ask which four production stages are explained, how much is hands-on, and whether an experienced embroiderer teaches throughout.
A factory visit or demonstration remains valuable when properly labelled. The difference is whether the learner has protected practice and personal feedback.