Eco-Friendly Egyptian Handcrafts:
A Sustainable Souvenir Choice.
Upcycling
Go Green
Upcycling has emerged as a revolutionary approach to reducing waste while creating something beautiful and functional. For tourists visiting Egypt, upcycled crafts are not only souvenirs but symbols of innovation and cultural preservation. At egyptat.com, we proudly offer a range of upcycled Egyptian handcrafts, skilfully created by local artisans who blend traditional techniques with modern sustainability principles.
What Is Upcycling?
Upcycling transforms discarded materials into new products of higher quality or value. Unlike recycling, which often breaks down materials into base components, upcycling retains the original materials and elevates them into something unique and useful. By supporting upcycled products, you contribute to reducing waste, conserving natural resources, and empowering communities to adopt eco-friendly practices.
Textile Upcycling
Egypt is known for its rich history in textiles, and upcycling breathes new life into this tradition. The textiles often include pure cotton, blends of natural and synthetic fibers, or even luxurious silk. Each product reflects the artisans’ attention to detail and ability to turn waste into functional art. Beyond aesthetics, textile upcycling provides numerous health and environmental benefits. It reduces the need for new textile production, minimizing chemical use and water consumption. Additionally, the natural fibers used in many of these products are hypoallergenic, making them ideal for sensitive skin.
How It Works?
The leftover materials get sorted by colors, textures, and usage before being crocheted into bags, baskets, or coasters with varying shades of colors. Textiles could be pure cotton, or a mix of cotton, natural and synthetic fibers, or silk at times.
The production and creative team collaborate to discuss and develop new products and designs. With the skilled hands of talented artisan women, each fabric scrap is thoughtfully selected to complement the overall design, and they meticulously crochet each piece into its perfect place.
Upcycling textiles has added much value to their mastering technique and it has opened new markets. The textile upcycling team is being shaped into a collaborative production model.
Note: Most Upcycled products on Egyptat are sustainably made, upcycled, and handcrafted by the women of Kendaka.
Kendaka upcycles textile leftovers from Egyptian textile and clothing factories into a trendy functional home- and tableware.
Glass Upcycling
Glass bottles and jars, often discarded after a single use, are repurposed into elegant and practical items like glasses, vases, and decorative pieces. Upcycled glass products are not only visually stunning but also healthier alternatives to plastic. Glass is non-toxic, does not leach harmful chemicals, and is long-lasting. By choosing these items, you support sustainable living while reducing reliance on disposable materials.
How It Works?
Collect large quantities of bottles and jars from companies, organizations, and designated collection points. Once gathered, the glassware is thoroughly washed and prepared for upcycling using simple yet effective techniques in our factory.
The production and creative team collaborate to discuss and develop new products and designs. With the skilled hands of talented artisan women, each fabric scrap is thoughtfully selected to complement the overall design, and they meticulously crochet each piece into its perfect place.
Depending on the product design, the glass may remain plain or feature decorative elements like sandblasting. Also, they offer customization, creating unique, socially, and environmentally responsible products tailored to your needs.
Note: Most Upcycled products on Egyptat are sustainably made, upcycled, and handcrafted by the women of Kendaka. Kendaka focuses on nurturing creativity and empowering women with limited access to work opportunities. By providing safe, local employment, these women can support their families while gaining valuable skills. It’s also about promoting awareness and fostering positive change.
Plastic Upcycling
Plastic pollution is a global crisis, and in Egypt, it is being tackled with creativity and determination. Some artisans weave single-use plastic bags into durable products like clutches, bags, and mats. Each supermarket bag is transformed into nine meters of thread, which is then woven into beautiful, long-lasting items. Using upcycled plastic reduces the volume of waste entering landfills and oceans. Moreover, these products are lightweight, easy to clean, and resistant to wear and tear, offering both practicality and sustainability.
How It Works?
Plastic bags are collected from supermarkets, individuals, and organizations. These bags are cleaned thoroughly to remove any dirt or residue, ensuring they are ready for the upcycling process.
Each plastic bag is cut into thin strips and processed to create durable plastic threads. From one small plastic bag, approximately 9 meters of thread is produced.
The plastic threads are woven on a loom by skilled artisans to create sustainable, long-lasting items such as bags, pouches, and other functional products.
Note: Most Upcycled products on Egyptat are sustainably made, upcycled, and handcrafted by the women of Kendaka.
Why Choose Upcycled Souvenirs from Egypt?
When you buy upcycled products from egyptat.com, you’re not just purchasing a keepsake. You’re supporting a movement that prioritizes:
- Environmental Conservation: By upcycling, we reduce waste, save energy, and minimize the carbon footprint of production.
- Cultural Preservation: Each product is a testament to Egypt’s rich artisan heritage, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
- Empowering Women: Many of upcycled products are crafted by women, an initiative that provides them with safe employment and valuable skills. These women can support their families and communities, fostering positive change.
How You Can Make a Difference?
Upcycling is more than an environmental initiative; it is a celebration of creativity, resilience, and cultural heritage. For tourists visiting Egypt, upcycled products are perfect souvenirs that blend beauty, functionality, and a meaningful story. Discover the charm of sustainable craftsmanship at egyptat.com and take home a piece of Egypt that truly makes a difference.
Conclusion:
By choosing upcycled products, you are voting for a greener planet. Every purchase supports waste reduction, promotes ethical craftsmanship, and contributes to a more sustainable future. At egyptat.com, we invite you to explore our unique collection of upcycled crafts that not only tell the story of Egypt but also reflect your commitment to sustainability.
