Ietsie Craft Store: Where Creativity Finds a Home

From humble beginnings to international treasures, Cecilia Smith turns passion into one-of-a-kind art for the world to enjoy.
Francouis Pretorius
  • 3 Days Ago
Four years ago, Ietsie Craft Store began as a humble effort to turn hobbies into a small business. “We decided to earn off our hobbies and create a workspace where I could work and grow a business,” says the owner, Cecilia Smith. At the time, the market for polymer clay crafts was relatively untapped, giving them a unique opportunity to stand out. Over the years, Smith expanded the offerings, gradually bringing in more products and supplies and establishing a presence at local markets.



Artistry runs in the family. Smith explains, “We have always been artistic. My mother learned from her father, and I learned from my mother. We participated in school competitions and community craft projects, so opening a shop was just the next step in sharing our passion with others.”



Ietsie Craft Store does not aim to become a big brand. “We want to stay involved with the art community. This is about passion and creativity, not just income. Our goal is to be successful enough to sustain the business while still enjoying every part of it,” Smith says.



The shop has become well-known for its clay mugs and gemstone jewelry, which are popular both locally and internationally. “Many tourists collect our mugs, so now we have pieces in countries like Germany, Britain, England, and Australia. Our jewelry has also spread worldwide over the years.” Sourcing materials can be challenging. While some supplies must be imported, Smith prioritizes Namibian materials whenever possible and supports other local artisans.



Ietsie focuses on creating individual, one-of-a-kind items. Even during holiday-themed collections, customers enjoy multiple unique options to choose from. Among the favorites are birthstone bracelets and necklaces made from Namibian gemstones, as well as mugs, which are often purchased as gifts for birthdays, weddings, or Christmas.



Custom orders are a major part of Ietsie’s offerings. Customers can either send reference photos or visit the shop to discuss ideas in person. “With mugs, we have had some of the most unique orders, from a pole-dancing mug to gamer-themed designs like The Witcher emblem and even cartoon favorites like Toothless, Kung Fu Panda, Lilo and Stitch. We have made well over 300 custom mugs so far,” Smith shares.



The creative process begins with an assessment of available materials and potential designs. Shop products are more freeform, while custom orders require careful consideration. Inspiration comes from previous creations, trends in the art community, and trial and error. Production times vary. Simple mugs take three to four hours, while detailed paintings can take up to 23 hours.



Ietsie Craft Store specializes in polymer clay crafts, jewelry beading, and oil painting. Its connection to the local art community is strong, fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and mutual support among vendors and artists. While the shop has yet to formally collaborate on projects, markets and expos have provided valuable exposure and networking opportunities.



The shop continues to innovate with new products. A recent addition is a set of earrings, and sometimes a necklace, in a glass jar with personalized vinyl text. This product proved popular at wedding expos. Resin letter keychains are also highly requested at markets, customizable for any customer.



Running a small craft business comes with challenges. “Stock management can be tricky. As a two-person team, we prepare months in advance for holidays and big markets like the upcoming Eleisenheim Christmas Market on 29 November. Jewelry repairs are another recurring task,” Smith explains.



Looking ahead, Ietsie Craft Store hopes to expand into art classes and experiment with materials like silver clay while continuing to grow its polymer clay line. This craft holds deep personal significance. “Polymer clay is where it all started for my mother and me. It has grown with us over the years,” Smith reflects.



For aspiring artisans, Smith emphasizes the importance of exposure. “You can have the best products, but if people do not know about you, you will not go far. Start with markets and build your way up.”



Ietsie Craft Store is more than just a shop. It is a testament to creativity, passion, and the joy of turning art into something tangible for others to treasure.