Our Story
I've always believed that inspiration can be found in the simplest things. I find endless inspiration in nature’s textures, forms, and imperfections.
Some of my earliest inspiration came from the natural world. The textures of weathered wood, the colours of changing seasons, and the little details that so often go unnoticed.
My journey has taken me across several countries. Born in Mozambique, raised in Portugal and the United Kingdom, and inspired by time spent in different parts of America, every place I've lived has shaped the way I see design. Each culture has shown me something different about craftsmanship, creativity, and finding value in the objects we surround ourselves with.
Those experiences became the heart of Shelita's Designs.
Where It All Begun
Shelita’s Designs began in 2026 in my small studio in Charleston, South Carolina, where I started creating my handmade matchboxes.
Using carefully sourced vintage textiles, reclaimed materials, and unique finds, each matchbox became a little work of art.
Individually handcrafted and designed, they are one of a kind. No two pieces are the same
My Studio, Charleston, South Carolina — 2016
An Early Creation — Handcrafted Velvet Leopard Print Matchbox
The Maker
I’m Sherley, the hands and imagination behind Shelita’s Designs.
For me, creating begins with noticing—the texture of a fabric, an unusual detail, or the possibilities in something overlooked. I love bringing materials together, experimenting with colour and adding the finishing touches that make a piece feel complete.
Every piece is made by my own hands, with patience, care, and the pleasure of creating something individual. I hope it brings as much joy to someone’s home as I find in making it.
Finding Beauty in the Forgotten
One lesson that stayed with me came from watching communities in Southern Africa embrace Ubuntu, a “no waste" way of life. The philosophy is “Take only what you need, use all that you take, and leave enough for those who come after you.”
A small piece of timber became something useful. An old object became something beautiful again.
That simple philosophy has stayed with me ever since, and I adore the concept that beauty is found in imperfection, age, and authenticity.
Today, I love sourcing antique, vintage, and forgotten treasures, carefully transforming them into handcrafted pieces with a new story to tell.
Every creation carries a little of its past while becoming something completely new.
Every Piece Has Its Own Story
No two creations are ever quite the same.
I carefully source antique textiles, vintage treasures and unusual materials, choosing pieces that catch my eye and inspire something distinctive.
My designs embrace a variety of styles, from delicate florals, insects and vintage embroidery to playful illustrations and contemporary patterns, reflecting different interiors, tastes and personalities.
Through thoughtful craftsmanship, these forgotten finds are repurposed into individual works of art.
Whether it's a handcrafted matchbox, a decorative keepsake, or a restored treasure, each piece carries its own character, history, and personality.
Once a creation finds its new home, it remains a truly one-of-a-kind piece, never to be replicated.
Handmade With Purpose
I believe the objects we use every day should be both beautiful and practical.
There's something incredibly satisfying about reaching for an everyday item that has been thoughtfully made instead of mass produced.
Every design is created by hand with patience, attention to detail and genuine care.
From choosing materials to the final finishing touches, I take great pride in making pieces that feel timeless rather than temporary.
A Collection of Possibilities
From hand -painted artwork and vintage textiles to inspired patterns and contemporary designs, each matchbox reflects a different inspiration.
FIND ONE THAT SPEAKS FOR YOU!
Inspired By Nature
Nature continues to be my greatest source of inspiration.
The grain of aged timber. The textures found in bark and stone. The colours of leaves, flowers and changing skies.
These little details quietly influence every piece I create.
Rather than following trends, I prefer to create designs that feel calm, natural and enduring.
Inspired by my favourite .
My greatest source of inspiration The Ocean Endless forms and colours, this unique piece captures a little of its beauty and bringing it to your home.
More Than Beautiful Objects
Bohemian Collection - Handmade Matchboxe
For me, creating isn't simply about making something attractive.
It's about giving forgotten materials a second life.
It's about slowing down and appreciating craftsmanship.
It's about choosing quality over quantity.
And it's about creating pieces that become part of someone's home, their memories and their story.
Thank You
Thank you for taking the time to visit Shelita's Designs.
I hope that when one of my creations finds its way into your home, it brings the same joy that I feel while making it.