What began as a simple hobby – creating women’s accessories for family and close friends – unexpectedly grew into a brand with its own identity.
Nurul Zulaika Simon’s ZS Piece label that offered elegant accessories at affordable prices, drew attention for its use of glass as an alternative to crystals.
“Although I use glass, I make sure the colour combinations and designs are well-balanced so each piece has its own character.
“Customers can also choose designs that suit their taste,” she told Bernama.
Nurul Zulaika started producing accessories under her brand last August.
Drawing on nearly five years of experience as an artist, the 30-year-old channelled her artistic skills into designing motifs for rings, bracelets and phone straps.
She added that her craft-making also serves as a form of emotional therapy.
For Nurul Zulaika, who hails from Lahad Datu in Sabah, making accessories provided her a creative escape and respite from her responsibilities as a part-time lecturer at the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (Aswara).
“Creating accessories is therapeutic for me. And I hope those who wear them will feel more confident.
“Each piece goes through a sketching process and up to four or five design trials before it is completed.
“This is to ensure a balance of colours, contrast and visual elements that highlight the glass’ character,” she said.
Priced from as low as RM11 to RM100 a piece depending on the materials used, the crafter said her products could last a long time with proper care.
Nurul Zulaika, who markets her products at various booths, said the influx of mass-produced imported items had put pressure on local craft makers to remain competitive.
The visual design graduate said the situation had affected the competitiveness of local handmade products that were made manually, which required more time and precision compared to large-scale manufacturing.
“Each accessory is crafted individually with its own creative touch, making it unique compared to mass-produced items,” she pointed out.
Nurul Zulaika added that time constraints posed a challenge in expanding her business as she has to balance her roles as a part-time lecturer, visual artist and accessory entrepreneur.
