Madeleine Chaput

East London, South Africa

Features Co-ordinator at Daily Dispatch (South Africa)

Writer and Photographer. Always ready to capture small infinities.

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Articles

Crocheting not just a hobby for grannies

5 days ago | theherald.co.za | Madeleine Chaput

While it is said to have originated from Chinese needlework in the 15th century and can be later traced to 1700s Europe, crochet is surprisingly not as “old-fashioned” as one might think. The hobby or art form is something most might associate with our grandmothers or a scene from one of Jane Austen’s novels. But for East London local, Erin Flashman — and many Gen Z-ers like her — crochet has become a relaxing hobby, a fun way to get creative and even ... a business.
Crocheting Not Just A Hobby For Grannies "

6 days ago | yourweekender.co.za | Madeleine Chaput

While it is said to have originated from Chinese needlework in the 15th century and can be later traced to 1700s Europe, crochet is surprisingly not as “old-fashioned” as one might think. The hobby or art form is something most might associate with our grandmothersor a scene from one of Jane Austen’s novels. But for East London local, Erin Flashman — and many Gen Z-ers like her — crochet has become a relaxing hobby, a fun way to get creative and even … a business.
Knifemaking hobby leads to business selling handcrafted leather products

3 weeks ago | theherald.co.za | Madeleine Chaput

Knifemaking hobby leads to business selling handcrafted leather products Working in his home-based workshop, Sunrise-on-Sea resident Henry Carr loves every minute of it Premium By MADELEINE CHAPUT - 28 March 2025 Starting out crafting knives as a hobby in 2018, Sunrise-on-Sea resident Henry Carr has turned his love for creating things into his own small business.
Knifemaking Hobby Leads To Business Selling Handcrafted Leather Products "

3 weeks ago | yourweekender.co.za | Madeleine Chaput

Starting out crafting knives as a hobby in 2018, Sunrise-on-Sea resident Henry Carr has turned his love for creating things into his own small business. While knives are what started it off, Carr’s creative passion evolved into leather making, and today he offers a wide range of custom, handmade leather products under his business CarrCraft.
Entrepreneur Turns A Tough Time Into Groovy Gifts "

1 month ago | yourweekender.co.za | Madeleine Chaput

From colourful dot art decor to upcycled denim jackets, tie-dyed shirts and more, East Londoner Helen Manchers is all about creating groovy gifts of all kinds. Starting her small business of the same name — Groovy Gifts — more than three years ago, Manchers turned a tough time into a new and positive artistic venture. “I lost my employment a while before Covid. “During the Covid-19 lockdowns I needed to keep myself busy to stay sane.
Love For All Things Natural "

1 month ago | yourweekender.co.za | Madeleine Chaput

Starting out making her own probiotics when she lived in Australia, KwaZulu-Natal-born Beth Marshall, 38, now has her own range of natural skin, body and wellness products. And while B’s Naturally Essential only officially began in 2024, Marshall’s love for all things natural began almost two decades ago. “In 2002, my family immigrated to Australia and that’s where the story of B’s Naturally Essential all started,” Marshall, who later returned to SA and settled in East London, said.
Colouring Book Creator Turns Childhood Love Into A Business "

2 months ago | yourweekender.co.za | Madeleine Chaput

Known to calm the brain and relax the body, colouring in isn’t just a great childhood pastime. For many, adults and children alike, it’s a natural stress reliever — a way to unwind and let go for a little while. And that’s exactly what East London-based interior designer turned colouring book creator, Kerri-lee Wanckel, 34, wants to bring a little more of into the world.
Don’t Worry, Be A Happy Club Member "

Jan 17, 2025 | yourweekender.co.za | Madeleine Chaput

With a passion for creativity, organisation and entrepreneurship, East London-born graphic designer Jayde Olivier recently launched Happy Club — a business dedicated to all three. Starting out as a creative hobby — a way to share her illustrations and DIY ideas — during the Covid-19 lockdown, Happy Club is now a booming little business. “It began as an Instagram page where I shared my creative projects at a time when I had the luxury of focusing on creativity,” she said.
Handmade Candles That Can Light Up Your Life "

Jan 10, 2025 | yourweekender.co.za | Madeleine Chaput

Candles are like little mood-makers for your home — they can create a cosy atmosphere, add charm and colour, and fill your space with some feel-good fragrances. While East London local Isabel Holm’s handmade candles do all this, many of them also look good enough to eat!Prompted by her sister’s interest in candle making, Holm, 20, launched Incandescent Candles in June and has since been creating delectable candles of all colours and scents.
New Mom Turns Passion Project Into Instant Success "

Dec 7, 2024 | yourweekender.co.za | Madeleine Chaput

With a passion for teaching little minds, qualified foundation phase teacher Jessica Gale recently started a brand-new venture. Inspired by becoming a new mother, the East Londoner opened Playroom — a dedicated play space for babies, toddlers and their parents — at the beginning of November. “⁠Playroom has always been a concept I’ve loved, but having my own child has inspired me to get it going.