Handpan Maker Spotlight: SEW Handpans
- Sheena Dela Cruz
- May 12
- 4 min read
For this week's Handpan Maker Spotlight, we're exploring Sew Handpan, the embodiment of Italian craftsmanship and musical passion. Founded in 2015, Sew Handpan’s mission is simple yet profound: to create handpans that transcend the ordinary, resonating with both hearts and souls. The founders, whose initials form the acronym "SEW," pour their devotion into each instrument, ensuring that every note played becomes a magical experience. Come join me as we explore the story of the SEW Handpan!
What is your company name? And what is the meaning/inspiration behind it?
SEW Handpan, "SEW" is the acronym of the names of our founders but more importantly it is what we do, we "sew" our passion and creativity with music in order to make instruments that deliver happiness to our clients.
Who is your company run by? Do you work alone or with a team of people?
Sew handpan is a company composed by several people, each person dedicated to specific tasks. We have two sites, one in Lecce (the HQ) and the second in Padua.
Do you have a specific name for the instruments you make? (Other than handpan) If so what is the meaning behind this?
We have 5 different Production lines:
WOODPAN – REDEFINING SOUND In every era, instruments emerge that shift the very definition of music. The Woodpan isn’t just an instrument; it’s a groundbreaking acoustic experience.
OPERA – BEYOND SOUND. A SYMPHONY OF PRECISION At the crossroads of Renaissance boldness and contemporary technology stands Opera: the refined stainless steel incarnation from the Sew Handpan family.
MINI – SIMPLIFIED, MAGNIFIED Step into a world where inclusivity meets innovation. MINI, an unprecedented handpan that redraws traditional boundaries, enabling everyone to express their melody.
MAESTRO – WHERE MASTERY BEGINS Every artist’s journey begins with a single step, and the Maestro is designed to set you on your path in the world of handpans with grace and confidence.
CONCERTO – THE VOICE OF MASTERY At the heart of percussive and melodic artistry emerges Concerto, the nitrided handpan that embodies both power and depth of sound. With a thickness of 1.5mm, this instrument is a true expression of sturdiness and acoustic sophistication.
Year Founded:
We were born in 2015.
Location:
Our headquarters is in Lecce, South Italy, our second site is in Padua, and now we have opened our first Sew Handpan school in New York.
How did you first discover the handpan?
We met this amazing instrument in 2013 in Padua, played by a musician that was busking. It was love at first sight!
What made you decide to start building handpans?
We, as founders, started to make the handpan because we were musicians in our youth and we wanted to use this instrument in our own music production. It was so hard to find a handpan in 2013 so we decided to start making it as a game... and it turns out it was what we love to do most.
What is your goal as a handpan builder?
We have two big goals: #1 To deliver happiness to our customers thanks to our products and services. #2 To spread the power and magnificence of this instrument globally creating communities and passionate people that enjoy the joy of music.
What would you say your instruments are known for?
For their uniqueness in terms of sound, design, and characteristics (The Woodpan above all!) and as the best instruments for quality at reasonable price.
What are your most and least favorite things about being a handpan builder?
The most for sure is looking at the joyful eyes of the customers when they receive their instruments, they give us power to continue and always improve. The least is that you always have the sound of hammering in your ears!
If you could only play one handpan scale for the rest of your life what would it be and why?
C# Celtic, indeed. It was the first scale with which we introduced the Woodpan.
Tell me 1 interesting fact about you, your company, or your instruments.
Other than handpan, we love to ride motorcycles! Although, it's hard to move with handpans when we go around on our motorcycles.
Do you take custom orders?
Yes sure, we can make more than 100 scales.
Do you have instruments currently available to purchase?
We work mainly on booking, but all the product lines are available on our shop online.
Do you have a waiting list? If so, how long?
We commit to deliver all instruments in maximum of 30-45 days.
For more information about Lupan Handpans:
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