Support local: Glenwood bead artists share 8 gift ideas for R200 or less

GLENWOOD bead artist, Victor Mpofu has a range of festive pieces that are perfect for those last-minute Christmas gifts, or table decor, to impress friends and family this festive season.

While Christmas is typically a busy time for Mpofu, his business took a hit this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The bead artist said he makes about 50% of his regular earnings.

“Covid-19 has turned everything upside down. Our business is seasonal. We are usually busy during holiday periods when people travel and tourists visit. Now, because of Covid-19, people aren’t allowed to travel,” he said. 

Mpofu, who supports his wife and two children with his beadwork business, learned the craft in 2008 as a school learner.

Also read: Travel restrictions delay Christmas mail

“We are here for our customers. We take custom orders. We have a lot of festive items, such as tree ornaments and beaded Christmas trees. Everything is on special for Christmas. If anyone wants to learn how to bead, they can come and sit with us and we will teach them as well,” said Mpofu.

Beaded items, which are sold without plastic packaging, will appeal to the eco-friendly shopper.  Mpofu’s stand is set up outside the KZNSA Art Gallery at 116 Bulwer Road, Glenwood.

Also read: Give the ‘purrfect’ gift this Christmas

Eight gift ideas

These beaded Christmas wreaths will bring festive cheer to any doorstep or family table. Large wreaths cost R200 and a small wreath is R40.

Mpofu has a range of beaded Christmas tree ornaments for R25 each. These can also be used as festive keyrings or fun gifts.

These adorable, beaded reindeer are sold for R50 to R100, depending on the size.

Beaded doll furniture makes for a sweet gift. These sets, which include four pieces, cost R100.

Assorted beaded animals cost R50 to R100, according to size.

These inspirational signs will add to any interior design. A sign will set shoppers back R100. 

Bright beaded birds make a fun gift for any age. Single birds cost R100 while a bird and nest is priced at R200.

Beaded Christmas trees are the perfect table decoration for a festive feast. Large trees cost R200 and the small trees cost R100.

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