About Us
About Us ~ in short
Original T-Bag Designs (Founded in 1999) is a social enterprise that create jobs and manufactures world class unique handmade products from recycled and repurposed used teabags for the local and global markets. Our workshop in Hout Bay employs previously unemployed people from the local townships to create a range of functional art decorated with recycled teabags.
These unique gifting products turn tea bags into works of art. We strive to create sustainable arts and crafts for homeware and decor. The tea bags are dried, emptied, ironed then painted by the T-Bag Designs artists – each one is unique. These miniature works of art are then applied to stationery, wooden trays, coasters, fabric items, wall decor and more.
The enterprise dual mission is to provides employment and stability for a group of previously disadvantaged people in the Hout Bay area and contribute to reduction of urban waste through recycling used teabags.
OUR SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT.
- We repurpose +/- 7000 teabags monthly.
- We have created 16 jobs post Covid19
- Our staff compliment is 85% single mothers who need a stable income.
- We offer basic medical support to staff.
Our History
Origins
Original T-Bag Designs was founded in 2009 by Jill Hayes as a community upliftment project for unemployed women and evolved into a fully-fledged entity employing 22 people pre-Covid. However, in Mach 2020 the enterprise closed down and retrenched all 22 staff members. With the generous support of the T-Bags Supporters, the Paul Hommer Memorial and the Chamäleon Reisen Foundation, we reopened in 2021 and were are back to producing beautiful handmade artwork and continuing our mission of saving the planet whilst creating jobs for our local communities ( Jobs recovered to date: 2 by June 2021 -> 6 by June 2022 -> 12 by June 2023 -> 15 by June 2024)
Now…
The T-Bag Designs workshop in Hout Bay employs 15 people from the local townships to create a range of functional art decorated with recycled teabags. These unique products turn tea bags into works of art. We strive to create sustainable arts and crafts for homeware and decor. The tea bags are dried, emptied, ironed then painted by the T-Bag Designs artists – each one is unique. These miniature works of art are then applied to stationery, wooden trays, coasters, fabric items, wall decor and more. This enterprise provides employment and stability for a group of previously disadvantaged people in the Hout Bay area.
Aspirations
In the next few years, we will expand the product line and recycle more tea bags while creating more job opportunities for people in the local township. We are looking for partnerships with other social enterprises to collaborate and increase our recycled input materials and reduce our collective carbon footprint.
We intend to host more workshops and training programs for unemployed community members on hands-on work in Sustainability and Recycling while creating art from recycled materials and used tea bags. This could help to spread awareness about our work, while also empowering people with new skills and potentially creating job opportunities for those who become skilled at upcycling.
How to prepare T-Bags for donation
There are many different types of tea bags but the technique of preparing them, whilst similar, is slightly different for different tea bags. Below is a visual demonstration of how to prepare classic rooibos tea bags. Tear, Open, Empty, Iron and Pack. DO NOT CUT with scissors to open.
$
Step 1 - Tear
$
Step 2 - Open
$
Step 3 - Empty
DO NOT CUT
Once the bag has been completely emptied and cut into its final shape, it is placed in a pile with other prepared tea bags. Our artists and crafters then cleverly use the prepared t bags in a variety of ways usually involving paint, glue and other materials which are hand-made and decorated.
OUR IMACT MISSION IS TO;
Embrace The Journey of Sustainable Inspiration
Our journey began with a simple yet extraordinary idea – to transform discarded tea bags into breathtaking works of art. What started as an innovative recycling project soon evolved into something much more profound. We found ourselves drawn to the incredible energy and potential that thrived in the heart of Hout Bay’s local township.
Make a Difference, One Used Teabag at a Time
When you choose our unique handmade art and craft, you become a part of something bigger – a force for positive change. Your support directly impacts the lives of our local artists, providing them with a sustainable income for their families and a chance to pursue their dreams.
Enable Shopping with Purpose
As you browse our website, immerse yourself in the vibrant colors, intricate designs, and heartfelt expressions of our artists. With each purchase, you contribute to a brighter future for the community of Hout Bay. You play a role in preserving the rich cultural heritage, uplifting spirits, and transform lives.
