Behind every handmade item is a story — of struggle, creativity, and persistence. Here are three real-life South African craft makers who turned simple ideas into sustainable businesses.
🪵 1. Sipho from Khayelitsha – Woodworking With Purpose
Craft Type: Wood Furniture & Toys
Started: 2019
Platform: Local markets + CraftConnectSA Classifieds
Sipho began making wooden stools and children’s puzzles using offcut timber from construction sites. With help from a church fundraiser and a donated second-hand sander, he built a small home workshop. He now sells products at weekend markets and online, and hires two apprentices from his area.
“I believe in teaching others to build something with their own hands. Wood gave me a future.”
🧵 2. Naledi in Bloemfontein – Handmade Textile Bags
Craft Type: Textile & Fabric Design
Started: 2020 (During lockdown)
Platform: Instagram + CraftConnectSA Maker Directory
Naledi lost her hospitality job in 2020 and started sewing using her grandmother’s old Singer machine. What started as tote bags for friends turned into a range of custom handbags made with African prints. She now ships across the country using a local courier network.
“People support me because my designs speak to them. Every bag has a story.”
🔩 3. Pieter from George – 3D Printed Farming Tools
Craft Type: 3D Printing & Engineering
Started: 2022
Platform: CraftConnectSA Community + word of mouth
With a mechanical background and a 3D printer at home, Pieter began printing custom nozzles, irrigation clips, and replacement parts for local farmers. He joined the CraftConnectSA forum to offer help and has since received steady orders from nearby towns.
“I’m not just printing plastic. I’m solving real problems on the farm.”
Key Takeaways from These Stories
- Start small, even with second-hand tools
- Use local platforms and forums to connect
- Focus on solving real needs
- Share your story — it builds trust
🔗 Want to share your story with the community?
Submit your profile here:
👉 List as a Craft Maker
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