Ga-Molepo artisan spreads Christmas cheer with handmade decor
Sam Malepe's (35) craft has expanded to include home and garden ornaments, alongside his signature Christmas pieces.
POLOKWANE – Sam Malepe (35) from Ga-Molepo has turned his talent for crafting into a thriving seasonal business, creating handmade Christmas decorations to sell in town for profit.
The holiday season is synonymous with twinkling lights, festive warmth, and cherished traditions.
Malepe, speaking to the Polokwane Observer, shared how his wire-based decorations bring seasonal magic to life. “I make these myself to spread the Christmas spirit,” he explained.
“I learned this skill from my father, Ephriam, when I was just eight years old. Working with wire has been a part of my life ever since.”
Over the years, Malepe’s craft has expanded to include home and garden ornaments, alongside his signature Christmas pieces.
He emphasized how rewarding it is to challenge one’s creativity through such projects.
“Making handmade crafts lets you flex your creative muscles and learn new techniques, like paper-mâché or hand-painting objects,” he said. “Each year, I grow more confident and inventive, which is incredibly fulfilling.”
To keep up with demand, Malepe focuses on crafting while his wife, Sarah, sells the decorations outside Makro or in Polokwane’s CBD.
“There’s a unique satisfaction in seeing something you’ve created with your own hands,” Malepe concluded.
“DIY projects bring pride and accomplishment, especially when they transform spaces into festive havens. The joy they bring, both to your home and others, is a meaningful contribution to the season of giving.”
