MEET THE ARTISAN
MAKRA
Located in: EGYPT
Based in Upper Egypt, Makra supports skilled artisans who are living among the most underprivileged regions of the area. The talented artisans create beautifully hand-blown glassware while using recycled glass materials. Through this dignified work, they have access to a sustainable income, an outlet to preserve handicraft arts, a supportive environment, training opportunities, and health and well-being programs.
To begin the process, Makra purchases the raw material, including used glass bottles, by color from garbage segregation centers in the Greater Cairo area. The artisans then clean the glass and place the raw material in a hot oven to melt. Based on the product, colors are added. After the glass has thoroughly melted, the artisan will blow the glass according to the desired shape and design. The pieces are set to cool in another oven, sanded, cleaned, and packaged. Artisans at Makra are preserving time-honored cultural techniques while following eco-conscious practices.
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