What Does It Cost to Make Your Own Tanjore Painting?
Y
Written by
Yashaswini Jaishankar
30 September 2026·6 min read
Reviewed by Vibha Raj, Founder, Tanjore Collective
An honest budget for making your own Tanjore painting: what a proper kit costs and contains, DIY, online and studio learning fees, hidden costs, and how it compares with buying.
By Yashaswini Jaishankar, Head Teacher at Tanjore Collective. Yashaswini started with us as a student and now leads our classes, so she's been on both sides of this budget.
Making your own Tanjore painting costs about Rs 23,000 to Rs 33,000 all in for a first piece: Rs 4,000 for a proper material kit with real 24 karat gold, plus Rs 19,000 to Rs 29,000 for a DIY video course or live online classes. That's close to the price of a small authentic painting, but you finish with the painting, the skill and the story of making it yourself.
We hear the same wish all the time. "I love Tanjore paintings, but I'd love one I made myself even more." So here's an honest budget, from the materials to the learning to the small costs people forget, and a side-by-side with buying. If you're still deciding between owning and making, our Tanjore painting cost guide lays out all three routes.
Your first painting, budgeted
Essentials Material Kit: Rs 4,000.
DIY video course: about Rs 19,000 to Rs 28,500.
Live online classes (about 6.5 weeks): about Rs 24,000 to Rs 29,000.
Studio classes in Bangalore (about 6.5 weeks): about Rs 28,000 to Rs 31,000.
Check whether your course already includes the kit, so you don't buy it twice.
Plan separately for: framing, and shipping if you're abroad.
Prices checked September 2026 and vary by deity and batch.
How much does it cost to make a Tanjore painting?
If you already know the craft, the materials alone are the main cost, and our Essentials Material Kit is Rs 4,000. Most people don't, though. For a first painting, you'll want guidance, and that's where most of the budget goes. Put the two together and a first painting lands at roughly Rs 23,000 to Rs 33,000, depending on how you choose to learn and which deity you paint.
What's in a proper material kit (and what it costs)
Our Essentials Material Kit costs Rs 4,000. Every item is handpicked and tested, and it's what our own students paint with.
A pre-sketched board. The deity is already sketched and prepared, so you skip the hardest part for a beginner working remotely.
24 karat gold sheets. Purity of gold is important for the shine and longevity of your painting.
Arabic gum crystals. Used to prepare gesso and to stick gold foil onto the board.
Chalk powder. The main ingredient in the gesso that forms the raised relief.
Kundan stones. For the jewelled ornaments.
Original Swarovski crystals. For the final sparkle.
Four premium brushes. Professional grade, for fine work.
Why a very cheap "Tanjore style" kit isn't the same
You'll see kits online for under Rs 1,000. They can be fun for a craft afternoon. But check what's actually inside. Is the gold real, and what karat? Are the stones kundan? Is the board prepared and sketched? A kit without real gold and proper gesso materials will give you a painting in the Tanjore style, not a Tanjore painting. Our post on gold foil grades explains why that one ingredient matters so much.
The cost of learning: three routes
This is the bigger part of the budget, and it's the part that decides whether you finish. We teach the same techniques three ways.
DIY video courses (about Rs 19,000 to Rs 28,500). Self-paced, pre-recorded lessons you follow on your own schedule. Popular with students abroad and anyone with an unpredictable week.
Live online classes (about Rs 24,000 to Rs 29,000 for a 6.5 week course). Twice weekly sessions over Zoom with a master artist. Every session is recorded and shared with you, with access for up to a month after the course ends. The kit is optional and shipped to you by FedEx.
Studio classes (about Rs 28,000 to Rs 31,000 for a 6.5 week course). In person at our studio in Basavangudi, Bangalore. The traditional, hands-on way.
Bigger deities cost more to learn, because they take longer. We've set out every fee, and what each one includes, in Tanjore painting class fees.
Make vs buy: a side-by-side
Make your own (first painting)
Buy a small authentic painting
Cost
About Rs 23,000 to Rs 33,000 (kit plus course)
About Rs 20,000 to Rs 40,000
Time
About 6.5 weeks, two sessions a week
As soon as it's delivered
Materials
Real 24 karat gold, kundan, Swarovski
Depends on the seller, so ask
What you keep
Your painting, the skill, and the brushes for the next one
A finished painting
Money isn't really the deciding line, then. The honest question is whether you want the object or the experience. Many of our students come for the painting and stay for the quiet. They describe the weeks as meditative, calming, even like therapy.
Archana is one of our DIY students. She learned with our DIY Lakshmi video course at home, and you can read how it turned her curiosity into confidence. Most of our students are complete beginners who worry they can't draw. They finish anyway, because the board comes pre-sketched and every step is broken down.
Watch a first painting come together
Prasad's journey with his very first Tanjore painting.
Hidden costs to plan for
Framing. A finished painting usually goes into a frame, and that's a separate cost.
Shipping abroad. If you're outside India, the kit ships by FedEx, so check delivery charges to your country.
Your time. About 6.5 weeks for a first piece. It's time well spent, but it's worth planning for, especially around a busy job.
Frequently asked questions
Is it cheaper to make a Tanjore painting than buy one?
The materials alone are much cheaper, at Rs 4,000 for our Essentials Material Kit. With a course, a first painting costs about Rs 23,000 to Rs 33,000, similar to a small authentic painting. The difference is that you also keep the skill.
Can a beginner make a Tanjore painting at home?
Yes. Our kits come pre-sketched, and our DIY and online courses take you step by step from a blank board to a finished deity. Most of our students have never painted before. Our step-by-step making guide shows the whole process.
Do I need to buy materials separately for an online class?
The materials kit is optional for our live online classes and is shipped to you by FedEx. You can also order the Essentials Material Kit on its own.
What does a Tanjore painting kit include?
Ours includes a pre-sketched board, 24 karat gold sheets, Arabic gum crystals, chalk powder, kundan stones, original Swarovski crystals and four premium brushes.
Hear from students who've learned the art of Tanjore painting with us.
They have a beautiful studio, filled with their lovely Tanjore collections, which are outstanding. I never thought I would learn the art so quickly n easily. Vibha n team were very warm n patient in teaching me the art n painting. They actually instill so much confidence in you n make it look so easy for beginners, that it actually helps anyone learn it quickly. Their method of teaching, materials provided, training and facilities provided to learn are top notch.
Asha R
Lord Balaji
Creating my first Tanjore painting of Goddess Lakshmi Devi through Tanjore Collective's DIY course was a truly fulfilling experience. The course was very well structured, which made learning Tanjore painting much easier, even as a beginner. Vibha did a wonderful job explaining every intricate detail with clarity and patience. The step-by-step guidance helped me feel confident throughout the process, and seeing the final painting brought me immense happiness.
Sandhya D
Goddess Lakshmi
I consider Tanjore art is one of the difficult arts vibha made it easy to achieve that too through online. Her techniques are good and we were able to follow her on live sessions. I want to learn more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore collective.
Apoorva Y
Goddess Lakshmi
Vibha taught us very well, asking us to try repeatedly until we got it right. Always having a smile on her face and clearing all our doubts. Had a great time learning from her and making new friends of like minded interest in art.
Raveen B
Lord Balaji
It was a wonderful experience to learn tanjore art from Tanjore collective. The whole journey was very inspiring, relaxing and interesting. Thank you Vibha and Yashaswini for being so patience in teaching each and every step of the process and making us so confident in completing the art with perfection.
Anupama
Lord Ganesha
I had a wonderful time completing my Goddess Lakshmi painting. From preparing the Arabic gum and embossing, to applying the gold sheets, painting, and refining the details, Vibha provided clear and detailed guidance throughout the online course. This was my first experience with Tanjore art, and completing the painting over two months gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. The process brought me clarity and calm, and I now love seeing the finished artwork — it adds colour and vibrancy to my home.
Jenny K
Goddess Lakshmi
Tanjore painting is a beautiful and intricate art form, known for its rich colors, compact composition and surface richness, which makes it truly special. Creating my first Tanjore Painting of Lord Hanuman with Tanjore Collective Art Studio through their online classes was incredible.
Sushma S
Lord Hanuman
Tanjore collective is an experience. I enrolled for the Gajalakshmi studio course and this was my first ever attempt at Tanjore painting. Vibha, her mom and the entire team is amazing. They are very patient and make sure you learn at your pace. The studio environment is also so beautiful and makes the learning a meditative experience.
Kavitha S
Goddess Gajalakshmi
I joined Tanjore Collective's online DIY course this April. I had always wanted to learn this intricate art form but felt apprehensive, unsure if I could do it without proper guidance. The DIY course allows you to access the videos at your own pace, and the structure of the course is excellent. Vibha ji explains every step with great clarity, making it especially beginner-friendly. She truly made the entire process feel approachable and achievable.
Archana I
DIY Course
I had a wonderful experience being a part of the Saraswati Devi Tanjavur painting course. Vibha was extremely encouraging and gave detailed instructions at every stage of the painting, for each intricate pattern the painting required. I thoroughly enjoyed learning and painting in the classes and the outcome is beautiful!
Raksha P
Goddess Saraswati
I enrolled for online ganesha tanjore painting course with vibha. This is my first attempt at any form of painting so I was naturally doubtful if I could do this, but the way Vibha taught the process step by step without even realising i was able to see the Tanjore painting come to life by following the steps.
Priya S
Lord Ganesha
I consider Tanjore art to be one of the more challenging art forms, but Vibha made it easy to learn — even through online classes. Her techniques are clear and effective, and we were able to follow along comfortably during the live sessions. I look forward to learning many more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore Collective.
Apoorva Y
DIY Course
Enrolling in the online Tanjore painting classes was a truly transformative experience for me. The course struck a wonderful balance between traditional techniques and thoughtful modern teaching. I especially enjoyed learning the intricate designs, embossed muck work, the use of vibrant colours, and the application of gold foil — the hallmark of Tanjore painting. Vibha's step-by-step guidance allowed me to practice patiently and improve my skills with confidence.
Tarun K
DIY Course
I took up the Gaja lakshmi course online. Initially I was quite sceptical as to how the online classes would be, as this art form is quite detailed and needs a lot of focus and attention. But at Tanjore Collective, Vibha and team have made it possible for everyone out there to easily learn and master the art form.
Sahana H
Lord Balaji
The Tanjore painting course, which I recently completed at Tanjore Collective, was a truly enriching experience. The course delved into the intricate techniques of this traditional art form, from preparing the canvas with gesso to mastering the delicate gold leaf application. The instructors were highly skilled, guiding us through each step with patience and expertise.
Padma K
Goddess Saraswathi
Learning from Vibha was truly inspiring. Her patience and attention to detail made the entire process feel approachable.
Manasa C
Tanjore Painting
The way Vibha breaks down complex techniques into simple steps is remarkable. I never thought I could create something this beautiful.
Apoorva YM
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's teaching style is incredibly clear and supportive. She made sure every student felt confident at every stage.
Pulimivijayalakshmi R
Tanjore Painting
Every class with Vibha felt like a meditative experience. Her calm guidance and expertise made the journey truly special.
Vani R
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's encouragement and detailed feedback helped me grow so much as an artist. I'm grateful for the experience.
Vani P
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's warmth and patience made the learning experience truly enjoyable. She has a way of making complex techniques feel simple.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
I loved how Spurthy encouraged us to explore and experiment while maintaining the traditional techniques. She's a wonderful teacher.
Akshatha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's calm and encouraging teaching style helped me overcome my initial hesitation and truly enjoy the art of Tanjore painting.
Revathi
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Spurthy was a delightful experience. Her attention to detail and friendly approach made every session something to look forward to.
Sunitha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's guidance was invaluable. She has an incredible ability to spot areas for improvement and offer constructive feedback with a smile.
Ritu
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's clarity in teaching complex techniques made my learning journey smooth and enjoyable. Her step-by-step approach gave me confidence.
Nithya
Tanjore Painting
I appreciated Yashaswini's patience and attention to detail. She ensured each student understood every step before moving forward.
Sushma
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's gentle corrections and encouraging words helped me improve tremendously. She has a real gift for teaching.
Anupama
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Yashaswini was a wonderful experience. Her calm demeanor and thorough explanations made the art form accessible.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's dedicated approach to teaching and her eye for detail made every class enriching. I'm grateful for her guidance.
Radha
Tanjore Painting
They have a beautiful studio, filled with their lovely Tanjore collections, which are outstanding. I never thought I would learn the art so quickly n easily. Vibha n team were very warm n patient in teaching me the art n painting. They actually instill so much confidence in you n make it look so easy for beginners, that it actually helps anyone learn it quickly. Their method of teaching, materials provided, training and facilities provided to learn are top notch.
Asha R
Lord Balaji
Creating my first Tanjore painting of Goddess Lakshmi Devi through Tanjore Collective's DIY course was a truly fulfilling experience. The course was very well structured, which made learning Tanjore painting much easier, even as a beginner. Vibha did a wonderful job explaining every intricate detail with clarity and patience. The step-by-step guidance helped me feel confident throughout the process, and seeing the final painting brought me immense happiness.
Sandhya D
Goddess Lakshmi
I consider Tanjore art is one of the difficult arts vibha made it easy to achieve that too through online. Her techniques are good and we were able to follow her on live sessions. I want to learn more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore collective.
Apoorva Y
Goddess Lakshmi
Vibha taught us very well, asking us to try repeatedly until we got it right. Always having a smile on her face and clearing all our doubts. Had a great time learning from her and making new friends of like minded interest in art.
Raveen B
Lord Balaji
It was a wonderful experience to learn tanjore art from Tanjore collective. The whole journey was very inspiring, relaxing and interesting. Thank you Vibha and Yashaswini for being so patience in teaching each and every step of the process and making us so confident in completing the art with perfection.
Anupama
Lord Ganesha
I had a wonderful time completing my Goddess Lakshmi painting. From preparing the Arabic gum and embossing, to applying the gold sheets, painting, and refining the details, Vibha provided clear and detailed guidance throughout the online course. This was my first experience with Tanjore art, and completing the painting over two months gave me a deep sense of accomplishment. The process brought me clarity and calm, and I now love seeing the finished artwork — it adds colour and vibrancy to my home.
Jenny K
Goddess Lakshmi
Tanjore painting is a beautiful and intricate art form, known for its rich colors, compact composition and surface richness, which makes it truly special. Creating my first Tanjore Painting of Lord Hanuman with Tanjore Collective Art Studio through their online classes was incredible.
Sushma S
Lord Hanuman
Tanjore collective is an experience. I enrolled for the Gajalakshmi studio course and this was my first ever attempt at Tanjore painting. Vibha, her mom and the entire team is amazing. They are very patient and make sure you learn at your pace. The studio environment is also so beautiful and makes the learning a meditative experience.
Kavitha S
Goddess Gajalakshmi
I joined Tanjore Collective's online DIY course this April. I had always wanted to learn this intricate art form but felt apprehensive, unsure if I could do it without proper guidance. The DIY course allows you to access the videos at your own pace, and the structure of the course is excellent. Vibha ji explains every step with great clarity, making it especially beginner-friendly. She truly made the entire process feel approachable and achievable.
Archana I
DIY Course
I had a wonderful experience being a part of the Saraswati Devi Tanjavur painting course. Vibha was extremely encouraging and gave detailed instructions at every stage of the painting, for each intricate pattern the painting required. I thoroughly enjoyed learning and painting in the classes and the outcome is beautiful!
Raksha P
Goddess Saraswati
I enrolled for online ganesha tanjore painting course with vibha. This is my first attempt at any form of painting so I was naturally doubtful if I could do this, but the way Vibha taught the process step by step without even realising i was able to see the Tanjore painting come to life by following the steps.
Priya S
Lord Ganesha
I consider Tanjore art to be one of the more challenging art forms, but Vibha made it easy to learn — even through online classes. Her techniques are clear and effective, and we were able to follow along comfortably during the live sessions. I look forward to learning many more Tanjore paintings with Tanjore Collective.
Apoorva Y
DIY Course
Enrolling in the online Tanjore painting classes was a truly transformative experience for me. The course struck a wonderful balance between traditional techniques and thoughtful modern teaching. I especially enjoyed learning the intricate designs, embossed muck work, the use of vibrant colours, and the application of gold foil — the hallmark of Tanjore painting. Vibha's step-by-step guidance allowed me to practice patiently and improve my skills with confidence.
Tarun K
DIY Course
I took up the Gaja lakshmi course online. Initially I was quite sceptical as to how the online classes would be, as this art form is quite detailed and needs a lot of focus and attention. But at Tanjore Collective, Vibha and team have made it possible for everyone out there to easily learn and master the art form.
Sahana H
Lord Balaji
The Tanjore painting course, which I recently completed at Tanjore Collective, was a truly enriching experience. The course delved into the intricate techniques of this traditional art form, from preparing the canvas with gesso to mastering the delicate gold leaf application. The instructors were highly skilled, guiding us through each step with patience and expertise.
Padma K
Goddess Saraswathi
Learning from Vibha was truly inspiring. Her patience and attention to detail made the entire process feel approachable.
Manasa C
Tanjore Painting
The way Vibha breaks down complex techniques into simple steps is remarkable. I never thought I could create something this beautiful.
Apoorva YM
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's teaching style is incredibly clear and supportive. She made sure every student felt confident at every stage.
Pulimivijayalakshmi R
Tanjore Painting
Every class with Vibha felt like a meditative experience. Her calm guidance and expertise made the journey truly special.
Vani R
Tanjore Painting
Vibha's encouragement and detailed feedback helped me grow so much as an artist. I'm grateful for the experience.
Vani P
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's warmth and patience made the learning experience truly enjoyable. She has a way of making complex techniques feel simple.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
I loved how Spurthy encouraged us to explore and experiment while maintaining the traditional techniques. She's a wonderful teacher.
Akshatha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's calm and encouraging teaching style helped me overcome my initial hesitation and truly enjoy the art of Tanjore painting.
Revathi
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Spurthy was a delightful experience. Her attention to detail and friendly approach made every session something to look forward to.
Sunitha
Tanjore Painting
Spurthy's guidance was invaluable. She has an incredible ability to spot areas for improvement and offer constructive feedback with a smile.
Ritu
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's clarity in teaching complex techniques made my learning journey smooth and enjoyable. Her step-by-step approach gave me confidence.
Nithya
Tanjore Painting
I appreciated Yashaswini's patience and attention to detail. She ensured each student understood every step before moving forward.
Sushma
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's gentle corrections and encouraging words helped me improve tremendously. She has a real gift for teaching.
Anupama
Tanjore Painting
Learning from Yashaswini was a wonderful experience. Her calm demeanor and thorough explanations made the art form accessible.
Meghana
Tanjore Painting
Yashaswini's dedicated approach to teaching and her eye for detail made every class enriching. I'm grateful for her guidance.
