Why Choosing Handmade Matters

We are witnessing a resurgence in the desire for analogue right now. Film prices are soaring, and flip phone sales have risen for the first time in decades. Humanity seems to be craving a tactile, slow, non-digitized medium. The pendulum is beginning to swing.

There is a certain quality and feeling to a handmade piece that cannot be matched by mass production. Handmade items connect us to our own humanity and remind us that, behind each piece, there is a real, living person who brought it to life. They remind us of a slower way of living, where craftsmanship and care are prioritised over convenience and speed.

Traditional techniques such as block-printing, Bhujodi handlooming, metalsmithing, and ceramics are centuries old. Passed down through generations, these processes are still practised today, infused with the knowledge and heritage of those who came before. These methods are not simply about creating objects—they represent a way of life, one that values patience, skill, handmade and the beauty of imperfection.

At Indaba, we believe that choosing handmade is a form of activism. It is a conscious decision that supports the well-being of our planet and its people—a choice that celebrates art, beauty, and tradition. Handmade pieces are not disposable; they hold meaning, becoming stories to tell, keepsakes to value, and heirlooms to pass on. When we feel connected to something, we care for it. This connection fosters mindfulness and intentionality in how we consume and live.

In a world that often feels dominated by mass production and fleeting trends, embracing handmade goods is an act of rebellion against the disposable culture. It’s about shifting our mindset from “What’s next?” to “What matters?” It’s about choosing fewer, better things that enrich our lives and homes.

So how can we invite more of this slow, intentional living into our daily routines? Start small. Swap one mass-produced item in your home for a handmade alternative. Invest in pieces that speak to you and resonate with your values. Seek out the stories behind the handmade items you bring into your space—knowing where they come from and how they’re made adds depth to your connection with them.

We encourage you to create a home that feels like a reflection of who you are. Surround yourself with items that bring you joy and speak to the life you want to live. This might mean layering your sofa with handwoven throws, setting your table with handmade ceramics, or lighting a candle crafted by an artisan who pours intention into every creation. Each small choice helps build a sanctuary where you can rest, recharge, and reconnect with what truly matters.

Our mission at Indaba is to share stories and products that inspire this kind of living. We aim to help you create a space that nourishes your soul and evokes joy through beauty. At the heart of Indaba lies the belief in "feel before you see." We value the tactile beauty of nature and the artistry of handmade pieces, each carefully crafted with intention and love. From the warmth of a handwoven basket to the soft touch of a handmade pillow, our products are meant to be experienced with more than just the eyes—they invite you to feel their quality, texture, and the soul of their creators.

Let this be your call to action: slow down, connect, and choose thoughtfully. Each decision you make has the power to shape your space and the world around you. Together, let’s honour the beauty of handmade, celebrate tradition, and embrace a life that is rich in meaning, connection, and joy.

Handmade from recycled newspaper, our paper mache decor pieces are entirely natural and sustainable. We love visiting the factory where they're made and learning the process behind how these characterful pieces come to life.

First, the newspaper is mixed with water, and then chalk and tree sap crystals are added to turn the substance into a clay-like material. The pulp is needed into chapati like forms, then rolled and moulded into the sculptural objects we love. There is no firing, no power used, and the process is entirely eco-friendly. In their raw finish, they have a chalky, lime-wash-like texture, and when lacquered, they take on a unique aged appearance.

We have fallen in love with paper mache for a multitude of reasons. It's beautiful, sustainable, sculptural, and the epitome of handmade. There's a softness, subtleness, and dimension of finish that's hard to achieve in other materials. What we once thought of as child's play has received an impressive adult upgrade.