Three bamboo bikes being built in the workshop in Langjia Hutong. [Photo by Clare Buchanan/China Daily]

I am joined by two other enthusiastic bike builders for Bamboo Bicycles Beijing's 35th workshop－an American intern, new to the city and looking for a bike to get around, and a German student who plans to take his bicycle home as the ultimate memento of his stay in China.

At first, we select bamboo based on whether we want a consistent look or a mix of light, dark, burnt or weathered pieces.

This is just the start of being able to personally craft and tailor our bicycles to look exactly how we want them to. We have our own set of measurements to work from, so our bike frames are specifically designed according to our heights. Throughout the bike-making process, we are encouraged to be creative.

On the first day, we measure and cut lengths of bamboo before using a tool called a dremel so that the parts fit together as snugly as possible and finally we tack the frames together with the help of epoxy glue.

The second day is all about strengthening our frames by wrapping the joints in fiberglass and carbon fiber soaked in glue.

The joints are then wrapped with electrical tape, which is later removed to reveal a glossy finish. Then it's just a matter of whacking the bottom bracket with a hammer to remove the plug, a move that emphasizes the strength of our bamboo frames.

Participants in the past have decorated their bikes with rope, hemp or wool, and "tattooed" the bamboo with their own designs, painting the frames their favorite colors.

The custom-made aspect of the workshop holds huge appeal, as during the process you see exactly what goes into your bicycle. You also get to invest a bit of yourself in it and come away with a stronger sense of ownership, as well as a beautiful bike.

If you go

10 am-6.30 pm, Monday to Friday. Workshops run on weekends 9 am to 7 pm and cost 2000 yuan ($320). 26 Langjia Hutong, Dongcheng district, Beijing. www.bamboobicyclesbj.com