Hello

My name is John Custom and I specialize in stationery made from handmade paper. I used to make my own paper but now I prefer to focus on making the stationery itself.  I make books such as photo albums and notebooks, gift boxes and gift bags.

I first made packaging for a chocolate factory and that’s when the idea of diversifying my product range was born.  I experimented with different paper and designs until I got it right.  I was formally trained by Glasgow Art Training Institute, and NGO that did workshops in Victoria Falls and Harare. 

I work with my family as well as a group of mothers with handicapped children from my community.  Most of my product designs and development is self-taught using imagination, trial and error and creativity on the job.  Nature plays a big role in inspiring me and is a significant part of my designs.  I use anything from elephant dung paper to porcupine quills, feathers, leaves and more which I obtain from Zimbabwe National Parks. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I do not hurt the environment with my work and no animals are harmed by the National Parks.  They simply provide me what has fallen naturally off the animal – porcupine, feathers, elephant dung etc…  I use handmade or recycled paper made from cotton offcuts discarded by factories.  I also use discarded bottle caps, leaves and grass.

My tools include cutter blades, staplers, squares, rulers and perforators which I buy from local grocery stores.  My main challenges as an artisan include:

1. Lack of decent operating space

2. Dwindling tourism which has hugely impacted sales

3. The high price of some raw materials I use.

I occasionally export to other countries using DHL and I also sell locally on a cash or consignment basis.  I use a costing system to ensure my work gives me a fair return to keep my work going. My best sellers are notebooks and packaging materials because they are practical.  I strive to continue to achieve a high standard of handmade paper goods and to become very well known.  I believe handmade products are best because they bring out the best in everyone – their creative potential.

If you are outside Zimbabwe and you would like to purchase from me, the best way would be to contact ZAACA or me directly on +263 773 712 745 (call me or use Whatsapp) or jchandmadepapercraft8@gmail.com or Stand Number 14518 Budiriro5, Harare, Zimbabwe, Africa. If you need to see samples of my work I can provide you with a catalogue or photos.

Thank you for reading my page!