Magda Potberg was born in Heuwelkroon, Greyton. She is married to Samuel Potberg and together they have raised five children with a few grandchildren – all based in Greyton.
Due to financial circumstances, she was never afforded to opportunity to finish her schooling and early in her teens was roped in by her father to assist with cutting down trees for fire-wood and selling it locally. Her father also taught her much about gardening and how to tend to vegetables and fruit. But even as a young teen, she always had a very creative mind and would watch and learn – and replicate quite successfully, whether it be knitting, sewing or crocheting.
Many years on, she was taught how to become a potter by the proprietors of The Kraal, who made bespoke ceramics and sold it locally and abroad. When they decided to move their business, Magda joined the Genadendal Mission Museum and ran their ceramics studio. There they made many articles which were sold in the museum shop. Magda was also able to teach her craft to school children and adults. But once again, fate played a hand in her life path – and the ceramic studio was closed down.
Magda soldiered on and was approached to assist with Housekeeping for a few rental properties in Greyton – and this she did for a few years until end 2016. During this time, her path crossed with that of Yolanda Bosman, who saw her talent for sewing, knitting & crocheting. After much deliberation between the two and many coffees later – Magda’s Trading Post was born and they became partners in this small home-industry business. A few shopping trips later, sewing machines, an over-locker together with all the fabrics and accessories were purchased to start the business.
Magda’s Trading Post specialises in:
– Bespoke hand-made decorative pillows (with half-down inners), table linen, napkins, place-mats, tea / coffee covers, oven mittens, aprons, tea towels and table runners. They source the best quality fabrics possible (and as Yolanda is in the interior design industry have access to the best imported and local fabrics).
– Clothing Alterations is another venture started and has escalated through local support.
Magda’s Trading Post also showcases their decorative articles and products every Saturday from 09h00 – 12h00 at the Greyton Farmers Market.