West Rand crafter shares her joy in crafting

What started as a handmade-with-love baby mobile for her first grandchild two-and-a-half years ago, turned into a passion as Zelda van Niekerk showcases her labours of love at local craft markets.

She started creating more as her close friends begged for their own uniquely crafted mobiles.
“One of my friends, Susan, encouraged me and pushed me to attend my very first market alongside her,” chuckled Zelda.

She recalled how it all snowballed from there. Finger puppets, cup coasters, wall decorations, and an abundance of unique and varying baby mobiles.

“People have asked me to create custom orders for them, shipped across the country!” she exclaimed, adding that she’s even sent them to places like Dubai, Canada, China, Australia and even America.

Zelda explained that she loves attending markets and chatting with fellow crafters and marketgoers, but it is not about the money for her.

“My biggest inspiration is the look on the children’s faces when they see my crafts; knowing that they’ll be filled with joy playing with my crafts,” she confessed.

It takes Zelda on average, depending on the detail of the craft, about three days to complete a piece.

“It takes time because I design and cut everything myself. So the finer intricate pieces like the eyes and eyelashes take a lot of patience and time – not to mention Zebra stripes and Leopard spots,” grinned Zelda.

Zelda can be found at local craft markets, like the Rusty Route Market. Just look out for beautiful, colourful felt mobiles and her friendly smile.