Here’s a list of handcraft products you can make with corresponding skill sources in South Africa and the market opportunities both locally and globally:
1. Beadwork (Jewelry, Accessories, Decor)
- Where to Learn in South Africa:
- Nela Kahle Art and Crafts (info@nelakahle.co.za)
- Craft and Design Institute (Cape Town)
- Community art centers and NGOs (e.g., Africa!Ignite in KZN)
- Market Opportunities:
- Local: Craft markets, tourist shops, local fashion retailers, online platforms (e.g., Yaga, Facebook Marketplace)
- Global: Etsy, eBay, African-inspired online boutiques, international craft fairs, cultural exhibitions
2. Basket Weaving
- Where to Learn:
- Vukani Museum (Eastern Cape)
- Local community programs in Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal
- Market Opportunities:
- Local: Souvenir shops, local decor stores, rural co-ops
- Global: Sustainable living stores, handmade marketplaces (e.g., Novica), home decor retailers
3. Textile Arts (Embroidery, Sewing, Quilting)
- Where to Learn:
- Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges
- Private sewing schools (e.g., SewAfrica in Joburg)
- Market Opportunities:
- Local: School uniforms, custom clothing, interior decor
- Global: Niche clothing brands, eco-fashion platforms, patchwork quilt markets
4. Pottery and Ceramics
- Where to Learn:
- Pottery SA workshops
- Ardmore Ceramics (KZN – offers residencies/apprenticeships)
- Market Opportunities:
- Local: Art galleries, garden centers, kitchenware retailers
- Global: Art collectors, upscale home decor stores, museum gift shops
5. Leatherwork (Bags, Wallets, Belts)
- Where to Learn:
- Leather training centers (e.g., Da Gama Textiles’ training initiatives)
- Informal apprenticeship with crafters
- Market Opportunities:
- Local: Fashion boutiques, flea markets, festival pop-ups
- Global: Artisan goods platforms, fair trade fashion stores, online personalized gift shops
6. Wood Carving
- Where to Learn:
- Rural art hubs (e.g., Madi a Thavha in Limpopo)
- Arts and culture departments in provinces
- Market Opportunities:
- Local: Tourist outlets, community heritage stores
- Global: Cultural importers, museum stores, specialty decor outlets
7. Soap and Candle Making
- Where to Learn:
- SEDA-supported training
- Private short courses (e.g., Soap Crafting Studio SA)
- Market Opportunities:
- Local: Gift shops, wellness stores, spa suppliers
- Global: Natural product retailers, subscription boxes, handmade cosmetic websites

Leave a Reply