Home industries flourish

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - "I'm a local girl, trying to turn what I love to do into a part-time business."

These are the words of Mossel Bay resident, Janade Shaw, who is sewing clothes to make pocket money.

Home industries have come into being during the lockdown, with learners and students having extra time on their hands.

Also, it is proven that when the economy is tough, cottage industries flourish. There are few waitron jobs at restaurants currently, and young people need to create their own income sources.

Photo gallery: Home industries flourish during lockdown

Janade, aged 19, says: "During the lockdown I have lots of time. My goal is to make and sell clothes for ladies - any clothes and all sizes. I am sewing tops, skirts, pants, dresses, bandannas and handbags."

Janade says: "I was spoilt to get a sewing machine from my grandma when I turned 18 and then she gave me her overlocker three weeks ago.

"I started sewing three years ago when I had free time."

Studying nursing
She is studying nursing and is in her first year at university in Potchefstroom, but she cannot attend university because of lockdown regulations.

"I source my fabrics locally," Janade says. "The fabric choice usually depends on the customer. I prefer them to choose the material that they like. Florals are beautiful and I mostly use floral designs.

"My sister has many friends. She is in Grade 10. She was wearing one of the skirts I made for her and her friends asked where she got it and then I decided to make an Instagram page, showing my clothing."

Janade admits: "My business is still very new. I am still getting the word out."

Young Andrea Aspeling, aged only 14 and a learner at Sao Bras High School, has started a business buying and selling earrings.

She started her enterprise just before the lockdown started. Andrea markets her earrings via WhatsApp. She takes a deposit from her clients and then obtains the earrings for them. Andrea's earrings cost R35 to R45 per pair.

'Keeps her busy'
Her mom, Trudelle Sydon, says: "I help her where I can. Her business keeps her busy. Most of the time she is in the house, not outside."

Another industrious young person, Bianka Basson, says: "About four weeks ago my grandma knitted a beanie for me. I asked her to show me how to knit one. Now I am knitting them and selling them. I'm busy with an Instagram page.

"I am still thinking of names for my business. I put an advert on my WhatsApp status and my mom put the beanies on her Facebook page."

Bianka is 19 years old and studying towards a BSc in animal science at Stellenbosch University.

She says: "All my studies are online now, so I will be in Mossel Bay for the rest of the year." So far Bianka has sold 20 beanies and she is busy with a few orders. Children's beanies cost R65 and adults', R75.

Andrea Aspeling