Eleven female inmates showcased their delicately patterned draperies and curtains this morning as part of an initiative which will see them being employed by a private factory.

The Prime Minister’s wife Michelle Muscat, Home Affairs Minister Manuel Mallia and Social Solidarity Minister Michael Farrugia were shown the draperies at the Corradino Correctional Facility.

Ms Muscat explained that the initiative was the brainchild of her friend, interior designer Mary Grace Pisani, who organised a three-month workshop where she taught the inmates how to sew.

A private textile company will be using the services of the inmates, who will have a “little factory” at the Correctional Facility. The money they earn will be stored for safekeeping in their bank account and they will only have access to it once they’ve completed their prison sentences.

Ms Muscat explained that the initiative enabled the inmates to use their time constructively while acquiring skills which would help them rehabilitate into society.

Most of the inmates who undertook the course were foreigners – Ms Muscat urged more Maltese to take up the initiative.

As the chairwoman of the Marigold Foundation, she donated two sewing machines to Rise Foundation, who were also helping out in the initiative.