From job loss to handmade success

An unexpected career change inspired local craft vendor Phyllis Chipangura to turn her creativity into a successful handmade accessories business.

After losing her job as a manager, Phyllis found employment at a jewellery shop, where she learnt the basics of jewellery making. What began as a new skill soon became a passion. When that job came to an end, she decided to use her experience to build her own business.

“I fell in love with it,” she said.

Phyllis went on to establish Phyphy’s Fashion Hub, a business specialising in handmade accessories and other products. Her approach is rooted in creativity, sustainability and the belief that handmade products should tell their own story.

Among her creations are upcycled accessories made from discarded Shweshwe fabric and genuine leather offcuts. Each piece begins with an idea before being transformed into a finished product.

“I picture the design in my head first, then hand-cut a stencil. I use that to cut the shape, glue the layers together, and file the edges until they’re neat,” she explained.

The process continues with punching holes for hooks and rings before the pieces are assembled and secured by hand using pliers.

Phyllis sources materials from local suppliers, choosing products she says are sustainable, affordable, safe to wear and proudly South African. Supporting local businesses is central to her philosophy. Rather than producing identical items, she focuses on creating one-of-a-kind pieces.

“We don’t make twins or replicas. Every item is unique, so when you buy from us, you know no one else will have the same piece,” she said.

One of her proudest creations and best-selling products is a four-in-one wrap bracelet. The versatile accessory can be worn as a bracelet, necklace, waist accessory, belt or even a hair accessory.

“It’s our best seller, and I’m so proud of it because it’s a rare piece you won’t find everywhere. I love making them,” she said.

Her customer base is equally diverse, attracting people of all ages and fashion preferences. From bohemian and chic styles to elegant and formal looks, she believes there is something for everyone.

“People love that each piece is unique and made with intention,” she said.

Selling at markets such as Craft on Zeiss Market has given Phyllis more than an opportunity to sell her products. It has allowed her to engage directly with customers, introduce them to Phyphy’s Fashion Hub and explain the wider work of her business.

The business also accepts custom orders and offers essential oil-infused bath product-making workshops, allowing customers and community members to learn new skills and engage in the creative process.

Although jewellery-making workshops are not yet available, she hopes to introduce them in future. As the business grows, she also hopes to create employment opportunities for others.

Running a craft business, however, comes with challenges. Her biggest obstacle is transport. Her car is off the road and requires major repairs, making it difficult and expensive to transport tables, stock and market equipment.

She now relies on Uber and public transport to travel between markets, adding to the cost of trading. On some days, the financial pressure is particularly difficult when stall fees and transport costs have been paid, but no sales are made.

Despite these challenges, she remains committed to growing her business and encouraging people to support local handmade entrepreneurs.

“For many of us, this is how we pay school fees, rent, and put food on the table,” she said.

She believes every purchase from a local craft business contributes directly to someone’s livelihood and helps turn a personal passion into a sustainable dream.

“Every rand spent on local, handmade crafts goes such a long way. When you buy local, you’re investing directly in a person’s dream,” she concluded.