Toy Project is a skills development and social project for disadvantaged women in the beautiful rural areas of the Klein Karoo and Garden Route in South Africa.
Over the past 3 years our members have been trained to make 100% handmade Shweshwe soft toys using little more than a needle and thread. Our current product range includes: Rhino, Elephant, Giraffe, Hippo, Teddy Bears, African Dolls, Donkeys, Owls, Chenille Baba-Afrika Blankets...with a Marine range to be launched shortly. This will include a Whale, Dolphin, Shark and "Mami Wata", the legendary African Mermaid!
The women are provided with all materials and are paid for each item on completion. They are encouraged to have bank accounts (a first for many) and thereby develop financial independence. Our products are marketed on our website and via up-market decor shops, game lodges and African curio outlets.