crafts Archives - Bellafricana

Bellafricana published in africa, Arts & Crafts, Beauty, Clothings, Destinations, July 10, 2023

Unleashing African Creativity: The Best Finds on Bellafricana Marketplace

Jurinest necklace on bellafricana marketplace

Africa is a continent brimming with diverse cultures, rich traditions, and a vibrant artistic heritage. From intricate handwoven textiles to beautifully carved wooden sculptures, African creativity knows no bounds. In this blog post, we invite you to embark on a journey of discovery as we explore the best finds on Bellafricana Marketplace, a treasure trove of African craftsmanship.

1. Handcrafted Jewelry:

Adorn Yourself with African Elegance Discover the allure of African-inspired jewelry, meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans. From beaded necklaces to statement earrings, each piece tells a unique story and adds a touch of cultural sophistication to any ensemble. Accessories are like vitamins to fashion – you can’t have too many, there is always room for enough. Each with different fiitings, patterns, colours and stones, Jurinest has put in too much into bring light and beauty to accessory, you don’t need a knight in shining armor when you have your statement accessory.

2. Home Decor Delights:

Transform Your Space with African Flair Bring the spirit of Africa into your home with stunning home decor items. From vibrant Ankara-printed cushions to intricately designed African string arts using nails and strings, these pieces not only beautify your living space but also serve as a testament to the continent’s rich heritage. Products used for this wonderful piece are lcally made, this showcases the uniqueness of African culture and the beauty it beholds. This art is particularly made by Artini.

3. Fashion Items:

African-Inspired Apparel for Every Style Experience the fusion of tradition and contemporary fashion with African-inspired apparel. Bellafricana Marketplace offers a diverse range of clothing items, from colorful dashikis to elegant Ankara dresses, allowing you to express your individuality through vibrant African prints. This Afrilush Adire bubu gown is a captivating blend of Nigerian cultural heritage and modern fashion sensibilities. Rooted in the age-old art of Adire textile dyeing, this unique gown showcases the beauty of traditional Nigerian craftsmanship while embracing contemporary design elements. Perfect for hangouts, events and any formal occasion.

4. Natural Beauty:

Harnessing the Power of African Skincare Explore the world of African beauty rituals with natural skincare products. From shea butter-infused body lotions to exfoliating soap, cream and serums. These products are crafted with love and harness the nourishing properties of indigenous African ingredients to rejuvenate and pamper your skin. All skincare products in the bellafricana marketplace has been tested and trusted and the results are amazing.

5. Afrocentric Art:

Elevate Your Walls with African Masterpieces Discover the work of talented African artists and adorn your walls with breathtaking paintings and art prints. From contemporary abstract pieces to traditional African art forms, each creation is a visual celebration of Africa’s rich artistic heritage.

Ronke Scott Gallery Artworks MINIATURES sold on Bellafricana Marketplace

Conclusion:

Bellafricana Marketplace is a gateway to African creativity, offering a curated collection of exquisite products that embody the essence of the continent. By supporting local African creatives and entrepreneurs, you not only bring a touch of Africa into your life but also contribute to the preservation and celebration of African heritage. Unleash your creativity, embrace African craftsmanship, and let Bellafricana marketplace be your guide to the best finds that the continent has to offer.

Bellafricana published in Furnitures, Gift Items, Home & Living, Painting, People & Culture September 27, 2022

5 Elegant African-Inspired Home Decor

My Africa Throw Pillow by Pillow Talk 9ja sold on Bellafricana Shop and Marketplace

Your home should have a touch of elegant African-inspired home decor telling the story of who you are and be a collection of what you love. It’s no doubt that public areas like hotels, conference centres, and recreational areas. This helps to bring out more sparkle, flamboyance, and embellishments to the space.

The beauty of African decorative items is the combination of vivid colors combined with earth tone and vibrant colors like green, yellow, and red to resonate beauty in a way and add glow to a space.

Adopting these 5 Elegant African-inspired home decorative pieces for your space will transform your space

AFRICAN PRINT THROW PILLOWS:

African print throw pillows are very catchy and beautiful to stare at. It serves as a decor accent to a space; bedroom, sitting room, office spaces, and corners. African throw pillows makers tell stories, using our rustic lifestyles, our commonness, and what makes us unique as Africans. Apoti Lagos, Bosh Designs are design and craft companies that manufacture artistic throw pillows, with beautiful colors, patterns, and craft designs to add feelings and emotions to your space.

Bosh Deigns African Drum throw Pillow sold on bellafricana shop and marketplace — ilu gangan throw pillow

1B. AFRICAN INSPIRED PILLOWS

Pillow Talk 9ja is another creative pillow design maker that uses Nigerian tales to craft elegant pictorial designs and messages. The brand uses relatable Nigerian themes such as festive events, Lagos lifestyle, folklore, and African traditional experiences. It also crafts personalized messages and seasonal/festive celebrations.

2. AFRICAN ARTS AND PAINTINGS

Art pieces are placed in strategic positions like accent walls, shelves, sidewalls, corner spaces to give details to a space. Ronke Scott, an artist has an interesting way of telling African cultural and traditional stories through her edifice. From capturing local and rustic to creating people’s experiences and realities, as well as emotions and doctrines. One of her great pieces of work, “psyche of a black woman”, examines the great features African women possess, strength, struggles, challenges, resilience, beauty, creativity, and uniqueness. Let your home always tell a story.

Ronke Scott Gallery Artworks MINIATURES sold on Bellafricana Marketplace

3. WOODEN HYACINTH LAMPS

Wooden hyacinths products are handcrafted fibers (otherwise known as waste or environmental menace). Waste products are recycled into beautiful furniture pieces. Adding beautiful wooden items can make your space look extra, on the edge and fabulous. MitiMeth creates unique and beautifully handmade hyacinth using fibers to produce crafts for dining chairs, rugs, tissue boxes, storage baskets, and a lot more. Mitimeth does fabulous items using waste fibres which are repurposed into usuable items for the home.

Lamp hyacinth sold by mitimeth on bellafricana marketplace, African inspired home decor — Lamp hyacinth sold by mitimeth on bellafricana marketplace

Also read: Top 6 Afrocentric Gift Ideas

4. AFRICAN THEMED PERFUME DIFFUSER/ SCENTED CANDLES

Do you know perfume diffusers have a lot to do with your wellbeing? There is nothing better than your favorite scent welcoming you as you walk into a space. Diffusers/candles not only smell great but look great too. They are stylish additions to window sills and act as great minimal centerpieces to tables. Have your house tenderly and nicely scented with Abela World scents perfumery. Abela world scents can last for up to 12 weeks, thereby causing a long-lasting scent in your space.

Perfume/Oil diffuser sold by Abela scents on Bellafricana marketplace

Scented candles sold by Abela scents on bellafricana marketplace, African inspired home decor — Scented candles sold by Abela scents on bellafricana marketplace

5) TISSUE BOX

This tissue box is a very excellent way of having your space free of littered tissues. This Ankara covering helps protect it from getting destroyed easily and stylish. Mitimeth helps repurpose waste from natural fibres into good decorative pieces suitable for any space. Adding finesse to your space with this great item will not only improve the glow of your space but also adds that edge and color harmony to any vicinity. its infusion of nice ankara material and fibre makes it more catchy and elegant to any space.

CONCLUSION

Afrocentric designs add elements of personality, charm, edge, uniqueness, emotions, warmth and inspiration. This fusion of bright and vibrant colors sends great appeal and sentiment to any environment. To order for your beautiful home decoration, click here

Bellafricana published in Arts & Crafts, Furnitures, Gift Items, Home & Living September 6, 2022

6 Beautiful Modern Craft Ideas

Adinkra florals footstool - 6 inches sold on bellafricana marketplace

Craft has been in existence for over centuries, and has no intention of going into extinction. Modern Craft is here to stay and has been handed over to us since our forefather’s days, has been revamped, renewed, and reshaped to fit our technological world.

Places like Egypt, Babylon, and other ancient cities are well known to be Pioneers of Craftsmanship. The word craft itself signifies strength and skills, skill in planning, making, and execution.

Modern craft has evolved over the years as lot of people are diving into it to make honest living. Here is a list of 6 Beautiful Modern Craft ideas that we use in our everyday life.

1. Tissue Box

This tissue box isn’t just the conventional one that uses papers. This is a woven Hyacinth tissue box made from waste fibre and recycled tyres. Yes, remember I said craft is revamped, reused and reshaped. Apart from the innovation that comes with this, its adds glamour, beauty and color to any space. Most people use it as well in their cars. This craft idea is designed by Mitimeth, and this brand has been known for being exceptional in repurposing waste items into usable form.

2. Hand Woven Bags

Another wonder our craft making is this raffia woven bag. well, this really no surprise at all to the modern craft, since it was actually borrowed way back, it would be crafted into woven hunter’s bag even storage bags for the house. it has be refurbished to serve as outting bags, party bags and even official bags. However, this elegant handmade bag is crafted by Yasmin crafts and its is indeed a beautiful piece to add to your wardrobe.

3. Cushion Box

This beautiful cushion box is a great piece to have in any space. It can also serve as a storage basket and a corner stool. This box is well sequenced with wonderful patterns and covered up with a touch of African Fabric. Unlike the traditional boxes that looked boring, this box adds accent and edge to any space it finds itself. This is the great mind of Apoti Lagos. A furniture design company.

4. Woven Wall Clock

Well modern craft is taking its place in interior decoration. Most especially, public spaces such as a hospitality centre, resort and offices, are now fine tuning their interior decoration using African talented Arts designs. This wall clock here is another wonder of the well put together craft by Mitimeth. Craft has been infused to several items and this makes any space catchy, grabs attention and adds finesse.

5. Resin Tables

If you have never watched how a resin table is made, I would Truly advise you do. The process is alluring and fun to watch. From a dead, wretched wood that should have been disposed, to this masterpiece you see here. Resin table are wonderful craft pieces that has been remade with earthy colors. The designs add a bit of natural feel and ectasy. Apoti Lagos using her resin craft to add glam in any space.

6. Laundry Basket

One fantastic thing about this modern craft laundry Basket is its well patterned and synchronized wood work. This design has a way of adding statement and flow to this piece of furniture. No longer will you have to put up clutter in easy to wear laundry basket, but you can hide it in the nice and pleasantly looking basket. Yasmin Crafts had wonderfully craft this with the intentions of storing in a more detailed and still put together way.

CONCLUSION

Craft has metamorphosed greatly over the years. As beauty, elegance and poise has been added to style up the usually boring and traditional arts we were left with. Craft has gone interior decoration, fashion, music etc. These 6 Beautiful Modern Craft Ideas, are the one’s that are usable on a daily and are common to find. To get more on modern craft click here.

Bellafricana published in Articles, Arts & Crafts, bellafricana, Gift Items, Home & Living August 3, 2018

DIY Craft Series | How To Make Paper Flowers At Home

Paper flowers are a great form of creativity and bonding activity in the family. DIY (Do It Yourself) Crafts have definitely come to stay. This is why you see lots of series, pictures, tutorials and techniques on how to “Do It Yourself” with basically anything from fashion, home and office decor, arts (flowers) and basically almost any craft your imagination allows.Continue reading

Bellafricana published in Meet The Founders November 15, 2017

Meet Itoro Okon “The Jeweler” | Exclusive Interview

In the year 2015, Bellafricana digest started the exclusive interviews section to give you a close insight to the beautiful minds behind the brands on our platform. The first day this was launched, Bellafricana founder, Bukky Asehinde, was opportuned to interview this young, artistic and talented young lady called Itoro Okon.

Itoro is a Geologist turned jewelry designer. She has a great personality, very smart and straight to the point. She is one of the Nigerian born talents doing great things in the economy.

Q & A

Please introduce yourself and your background.

My name is Itoro Okon and I am a jewelry Designer based in Lagos, Nigeria. I studied Geology but have a passion for crafts.

Please tell us about your work.

I craft unique and artistic jewelry pieces with the use of semi precious stones, crystals, corals and a variety of materials. Each craft is inspired by short stories

How did Jewelry by Itoro Okon start?

It started as a hobby and slowly transitioned into a business.

Where do your ideas for jewelry come from? Where do you find the inspiration for your jewelry designs?

I gather my inspiration from nature, culture, people and precious stones that inhabit the earth.

Can you remember one of the first things you crafted? What makes it memorable?

It was a strand of red faux pearls and crystals. I never took a picture of it but I remember it so vividly. It’s just one thing that you never forget so soon, it’s a representation of where I started from.

How long does it take to design and make a particular work?

It depends on the style of the pieces, but on average it takes about 15 hours.

Can you explain a bit about your techniques to make jewellery?

I mix different techniques together to come up with very unique pieces. I love experimenting.

What are the challenges you face in business?

Apart from the usual traffic in Lagos, light situation and poor logistics, getting reliable and trustworthy workers.

What is your most popular item (including a photo would be great)? My most popular item is the piece called ‘sincerely, Josephine).

Itoro Okon Josephine jewelry — Sincerely, Josephine Jewelry By Itoro Okon

What are your goals for the future, both work wise and life?

My goal is to be the number one creative jewelry brand in Nigeria.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

I studied Geology but now have a passion for crafts.

For someone who wishes to take up this kind of career, what kind of advice would you give them? Also, if you could give one piece of advice to youths who want to start their own company, what would it be?

You have to be passionate about what you are doing. It requires a lot of patience and perseverance. Have a mentor and ask questions, a lot of question. Never ever give up on a design you have in mind. Be unique and let your work speak for itself.

And finally, I would like to give you this opportunity to share two to four images of your work and tell us a little about each.

aurora jewelry by Itoro Okon — Aurora Jewelry By Itoro Okon

aranha jewelry by Itoro Okon — Aranha Jewelry By Itoro Okon

Firduasi jewelry by Itoro OkonFirduasi jewelry by Itoro Okon — Firduasi Jewelry By Itoro Okon

garden of hope jewelry by Itoro Okon — Garden of Hope Jewelry By Itoro Okon

You must agree with me that not only is Itoro Okon talented, but her beauty reflects in her work.

To reach Itoro;

Email her on : [email protected]

Look up her website at: www.itorookon.com

Bellafricana published in Meet The Founders July 12, 2017

Meet The Founder of Ethnikologie | Exclusive Interview

Ethnikologie CEO, founder of the African arts and craft store has a lot to inspire us with. Have you always had a passion to do something but always take a step back thinking maybe it’s not the best path for you?

You need to meet the founder of Ethnikologie, Titiloye Ashamu who’s passion has led to the creation of her amazing business in arts and crafts.

Let’s meet her now and take a note or two from her. Come on!

Q & A

Please introduce yourself and your background.

My name is Titiloye Ashamu. I am the Creative Director of Ethnikologie (NIG) LTD.

Please tell us about your work. How did Ethnikologie start?

I source for African handicraft gift and home products and implement new designs.

I have always had a passion and keen interest in arts and craft. Prior to opening Ethnikologie, I provided customs made arts and craft pieces for my clients. However, it was one of my friends that encouraged me to start Ethnikologie. Her mum had a similar shop, in Nairobi, and they both convinced me to follow my dreams.

Where did the idea for Ethnikologie come from? Where do you find the inspiration for your designs?

The idea for Ethnikologie came from my friend’s mother’s NGO and visiting various handicraft shows. Being a creative person who is always open to fresh ideas, I am inspired by everything around me. Most inspiring are things that make me think deeply.

Can you remember one of the first things you crafted? What makes it memorable?

I have crafted a number of things but the most memorable one, will have to be a mini clay pot. I was amazed when someone offered to buy it as a gift!

How long does it take to design and make a particular work?

Designing could take from a day to weeks. It depends on what you are designing. On the average, I would say about a week.

What are the challenges you face in business?

Artisans producing quality products, finance and Nigerian customs

What is your most popular item (include image)?

Storage and decorative baskets.

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

The African culture represents beauty and vibrant colors. I love to be surrounded real authentic handmade pieces, that beautifies the home and express abundance.

What are your goals for the future, both work wise and life?

Be a channel of trade between local artisans and the global marketplace. We are also looking at training sessions with artisans, on how to produce global quality standard and reduce errors.

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

That I am an easy going person

For someone who wishes to take up this kind of career, what kind of advice would you give them? Also, if you could give one piece of advice to youths who want to start their own company, what would it be?

Start with something that really excites you and don’t be discouraged when things don’t turn out right on your first try. Be flexible because you have the opportunity to learn and change things.

My advice to youths, interested in starting their own company is to research and understand the industry. Draw your inspiration from creative people who are transparent about their creative process.

Check out some of Ethnikologie products below;

Thanks a lot Titiloye for your beautiful response. We are always proud to see people growing a business passionately.

We hope to join you in your journey as a successful business owner.

Here’s a LINK to Ethnikologie’s page as a verified lister on Bellafricana

Bellafricana published in Articles March 1, 2017

8 Ways Women Can Make Money From Home

[dropcap custom_class=”normal”] Before I highlight a number of ways women can make money from home, I will tell you this for free, being a career woman is not a walk in the park which is why when a husband and a baby or two join the mix, women most often times resign from their day jobs to take on the role of being full time housewives…. [/dropcap]Continue reading

Bellafricana published in Life Style, People & Culture December 14, 2016

Creative Christmas Gifts Ideas

[dropcap custom_class=”normal”] Christmas season is here again, what Christmas Gifts are you getting for your loved ones? You don’t know yet? Alright then, Bellafricana is here to the rescue *wink*
Christmas comes to bless the earth. It is a time for everybody to be happy and merry. But what makes this season more special to us all, are the type of gifts we give and get.
So we have drawn up a list of really creative Christmas gifts ideas for you to wow your loved ones. And hey, you can even decide to surprise your enemies with a yummy package for the festive season, spread the love to all men! Christ is born!!…[/dropcap]

Continue reading

Bellafricana published in Arts & Crafts, Destinations, Events, Painting, Sculpture September 8, 2016

The First Edition of The Sole Adventurer Digital Magazine Is Out!

[dropcap custom_class=”normal”] We are pleased to announce that the first edition of The Sole Adventurer digital magazine is finally out!

This issue highlights Nigeria’s presence at the 12th edition of the Dak’Art Biennale in Senegal as we profile the five Nigerian artists featured alongside other international artists. Bapstiste Madinier gives an overview of the biennale and highlights some of its challenges, while in a conversation with Simon Njami Artistic Director of the 12th Dak’Art Biennale, Bukola Oye navigates the basis for the theme and the urgent need to reignite an African dream and hope in Africa… [/dropcap]
Continue reading

Bellafricana published in Fashion, Hats, Jewelry April 4, 2016

To be a Jeweler in Nigeria or not to be a Jeweler : Part 2 (Evolution) by Ibironke Oduniyi

[dropcap custom_class=”normal”] The journey to becoming a Jeweler in Nigeria continued. Going to Central Saints Martins College of Arts still remains top Ten one of the best things that has ever happened to me because my real journey into goldsmithing started from there. I got introduced to different techniques that I was clueless about and this was a different ball game entirely. [/dropcap]

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1. Handcrafted Jewelry:

2. Home Decor Delights:

3. Fashion Items:

4. Natural Beauty:

5. Afrocentric Art:

Conclusion:

1B. AFRICAN INSPIRED PILLOWS

Also read: Top 6 Afrocentric Gift Ideas

CONCLUSION

1. Tissue Box

2. Hand Woven Bags

3. Cushion Box

Also Read: 6 Best Online marketplaces for handmade Items

4. Woven Wall Clock

5. Resin Tables

6. Laundry Basket

CONCLUSION

Q & A

How did Jewelry by Itoro Okon start?

Q & A

Please introduce yourself and your background.

Please tell us about your work. How did Ethnikologie start?

Where did the idea for Ethnikologie come from? Where do you find the inspiration for your designs?

Can you remember one of the first things you crafted? What makes it memorable?

How long does it take to design and make a particular work?

What are the challenges you face in business?

What is your most popular item (include image)?

To what extent do you draw upon your Nigerian (African) heritage for your work?

What are your goals for the future, both work wise and life?

What would people be surprised to learn about you?

For someone who wishes to take up this kind of career, what kind of advice would you give them? Also, if you could give one piece of advice to youths who want to start their own company, what would it be?

Check out some of Ethnikologie products below;

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