So thrilled to reveal the beauty and craftmanship of Ghanaian artisanal recycled glass beads. A must-read if you share my strong passion for handmade crafts and the environment. Today’s article will show you why Akos Creative promotes traditional handcrafted beads.
I simply love beads and having worked with various types it is not difficult to see the therapeutic benefits. In fact, among the several bead types, only one still holds a special place in my heart, It is no other than the colourful and intricately handpainted Ghanaian recycled glass beads.
Now, did you know that artisanal recycled glass beads visually stunning? What makes them unique is their intricately handpainted colours and texture? Take a close look at this Krobo bead and you iwll understand what I mean.
The Ghanaian artisanal recycled glass beads I use in jewellery making are very unique. Traditional crafted beads carry a great cultural and environmental significance. So, try and visit the bustling town of Krobo Odumase in southern Ghana. You will be so amazed by the meticulous craftmanship of the Krobo people.
The Significance of Artisanal Recycled Glass Beads
Beads hold immense cultural significance across the globe. Over centuries, Africans use traditional artisanal beads for several cultural and social reasons. You see, one way that people use beads is to adorn their body. Another popular use of beads.
Beads in traditional rituals and rites is well known from prehistory time. Archival records have also shown beads being used for trade and commerce. Socially, eleborate artisanal recycled glass beads for instance symbolise status. In other contexts, beads represent identity, and spirituality.
In Ghana, beads are deeply rooted in the country’s rich cultural heritage and traditions. As result, Krobo beads for instance, play a vital role in ceremonies, celebrations, and everyday life. Tradtional bead making and its significance in the social and cultural lives of the people is worth experiencing.
Already thinking about what to do in your gap year? Click here to follow my social media posts about sustainability and experiences in Ghana. Don’t forget to add your comments about tour ideas you would like to experience. Perhaps, you might want to hand pick your own collection of artisanal recycled glass beads.
Ghanaian Traditional Recycled Glass Beads
Among the diverse array of beads found in Ghana, the traditional recycled glass beads is outstanding. This is because, the Krobo people adhere to the unique beauty and craftsmanship of their artisanal beads. artisanal recycled glass beads are molten recycled glass formed into individual beads. In fact, recycling discarded glass for beads is a great sustainable practice.
Here are the reasons. Firstly, recylcing used glass helps to preserve the environment. Moreover, the practice supports the local Ghanaian communities.
The Manufacturing Process of Ghana artisanal recycled glass beads
If you’ve been city bound most of your live, you might want to experience traditional bead making. Experience sustainable and envionmentally-conscious trends in Southern Ghana. Be immersed in the colourful beadmaking process of the local people.
Let me now show you briefly, the Krobo beadsmaking process in Ghana.
- Collecting discarded glass: The process begins with collecting discarded glass, often sourced from various sources such as bottles or windows.
- Washing and crushing glass: The glass is washed to remove impurities and then crushed into fine or coarse powder.
- Preparing clay molds: Hand mold clay with holes for beads is prepared. It provides the structure for shaping the molten glass.
- Firing the oven: The clay molds are placed in a furnace and fired to temperatures ranging from 800 to 1000 degrees Celsius. Before pouring the molten glass, the clay molds are coated with white Kaolin to prevent sticking.
- Shaping the beads: Using a bodkin, holes are pierced into the molten glass. This is how to create beads of varying sizes and shapes.
- Cooling and washing: Once cooled, the freshly formed recycled glass beads are washed to remove the white Kaolin clay. This process reveals the vibrant colours and textures of artisanal recycled glass beads.
A Glimpse into Krobo Odumase, Ghana
During my road trips to Krobo Odumase, I had the privilege of visiting the renowned Cedi Bead factory. The factory feature on Google Maps and it is for a good reason. Meeting Dr. Cedi himself was a dream come true and how refreshing getting him to answer all my questions about artisanal recycled glass beads.
Dr. Cedi is not only a master craftsman. In fact, at about 5 feet tall, Dr Cedi is not only also a humble, but a very knowledgeable individual. He graciously shared insights into the history of traditional beads and the sustainable bead-making process with me and my team.
Exploring Artisanal Recycled Glass beads
I always offer the opportunity for people to experience the touch and feel of my beaded jewellery. So, to take this a step further, I am offering the opportunity to take eight people on a personalised tour to Cedi Bead Factory. Please subscribe to my You Tube Channel on African Diaspora Lens to find out more. Also follow me on all Social Media to find out more.
You will be intrigued by the artistry of Krobo bead making at Krobo Odumase, Ghana. The cultural significance of Ghanaian recycled glass beads, is widely known. I invite you to delve deeper into the traditional bead-making process. In fact the social significance among the Krobo people will make such a great experience.
Visit our online shop to explore more applications of recycled glass beads and support sustainable craftsmanship.
Connect with Us
Not already following me on Socia Media? Connect with us. Subscribe to our African Diaspora Lens YouTube channel now. Watch our videos about recycled glass bead making at Krobo Odumase. Also recieve updates on other exciting upcoming projects.
For further inquiries or to connect with us, reach out via social media or email. We look forward to sharing more cultural experiences and fostering a sense of community through our work.
About Akos Creative
Akos Creative, led by Lilian Abbew, is dedicated to celebrating cultural diversity and promoting wellness. She discovered the creative expression through beadmeaking almost six years ago. With a background in community support, Lilian is passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their goals and fostering a sense of belonging. Through her writing and advocacy, she strives to create meaningful connections and inspire positive change.
Connect with Lilian on LinkedIn to learn more about her journey and upcoming projects. Follow on Instagram.
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