During the Covid-19 lockdown, Bloemfontein-based carpenter Thabang Shinners made a foldable laptop table for himself, which became his first-ever woodworking project. “During lockdown, I needed a foldable table, so I decided to make one for myself.

“From there, I started watching YouTube videos and teaching myself. Obviously, I made mistakes along the way, but I kept learning and improving.”

What started as a single laptop table eventually grew into Thaplanka. He took a risk by turning his woodworking skills into a business and eventually built his own workshop. Traditional woodworking skills remain important, particularly in a world where many products are mass-produced.

“Woodworking skills are still very important. With custom furniture, you are not making the same product for everyone; you are creating something specifically suited to a person’s space, needs, and preferences. Woodworking is also a practical skill that can be used to generate an income,” said Shinners.

These skills can also help people start businesses and create employment opportunities. However, access to tools, materials, workspace, and mentorship remains a major challenge for those who want to learn the craft.

Founder of Thaplanka Thabang Shinners. Photo supplied

“I don’t think the problem is that people don’t want to learn. The interest is definitely there. The biggest challenge is access. You need tools, materials, a workspace, and most importantly, someone who is willing to show you how things are done.”

Thaplanka is a furniture-making business rather than a training institution, but it hosts skills-sharing workshops where participants gain hands-on experience and learn practical techniques developed through daily work in the industry.

“The workshops are not only for young people; anyone who is willing to learn is welcome. In fact, one of our oldest participants was a 55-year-old woman. For me, that shows that you are never too old to learn a practical skill.

“The biggest thing is that once you have learned a skill, that knowledge stays with you. You can lose a job or retire, but nobody can take away the skills you have,” said Shinners.

Thaplanka planned to take a Free State skills-sharing workshop tour, visiting small towns to equip more people with practical woodworking skills. The business also hoped to expand by opening multiple branches and showroom outlets in shopping malls.

OFM News/Siyakholwa Mbatyazwa cvs

• Have a news tip to share? Phone or whatsapp the OFM News Hotline 066 487 1427.