There’s a new revolution. The revolution of the handmade.

In the high tech era it’s crucial to remain connected to the human touch, emotions and energy captured in objects made by hand. From a pure and simple functional piece to a solitary collector’s once-off, these unique objects act as a soothing foil against the harsh world and the blandness of the mass-produced. The art of eclectic styling also calls for handcrafted items, making all things handmade the hottest buzzword in design circles. Handmade objects and designer craft effortlessly mix with ethnic objects, antiques, heirlooms and funky modern design.

Now making its mark is South African Handmade Collection, a new initiative by the Department of Trade and Industry, the dti, celebrating the fusion of heritage with the future, tradition with the imagination, creativity with business know-how. As a brand this definitive collection represents the highest quality, design led, and well manufactured, environmentally friendly South African craft products, conforming to fair trade practices. It showcases our handmade products to the world: to international buyers and local trade.

Each work in this collection represents a strategic step taken by its creator towards becoming a successful local entrepreneur and exporter.