Craft Focus Magazine

www.craftfocus.com April/May 2010 April/May CRAFTFOCUS

Issue 18 www.craftfocus.com MAGAZINE Happy Birthday Craft Focus! REVIEWS • Craft Hobby + Stitch International • CHA Winter Show TRIED AND TESTED KNITTING YARN

How card making is evolving

Does e-commerce work for your business?

PLUS WIN! Latest products £500 worth of Numberjacks craft Industry profiles kits from Creativity International News & views Position Yourself for the Economic Recovery!

Just turn the page to discover how leading UK retailers and manufacturers plan to grow their business in 2010! Give Your Business a Competitive Join us on a Special Reader Trip to the 27-29 Stephens Con Rosemont, Illinois - j

“It’s the ideal platform for UK manufacturers and retailers to learn more about the US craft business and the way it operates. Many UK companies that have ventured into the important US market have used the Show as a starting point before committing full-scale.” - Sara Davies, Sales Director at Crafter’s Companion

Discover Trends Before Your Competitors

X Superb access to craft industry design, manufacturing and retail trends from across the globe X Engage with hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of attendees representing a vast selection of product categories across: B Scrapbooking and Papercrafts B Fabric, Quilting and Needlecrafts B Art Materials and Framing B General Crafts Edge and Find Inspiration in Chicago CHA 2010 Summer Convention & Trade Show July 2010 nvention Center just outside of Chicago

Build Your Business with World Class Education X Business building seminars that provide attendees with ideas and strategies they can immediately apply to their own businesses. X Demonstrations, Make-N-Takes, and workshops that highlight effective in-store demonstration techniques and provide inspiration for visitor’s own store events X Complementary lunch with CHA President, Steve Berger – who will provide an overview of the nearly US30 billion global craft market Chicago Retail Tour

Participants will also have the opportunity to join Craft Focus staff on a guided tour of several leading US craft and hobby retailers - featuring some of the most advanced and innovative retailing practices in the marketplace today. Visitors will garner inspiration, insights and best-in- class retailing practices they can immediately adopt in their own stores. Destinations on the tour will include: X Big-box stores Jo-Ann Fabrics & Crafts and Michaels X Specialty stores including Pearl Art & Craft Supplies and Blick Art Materials X Other innovative Chicago-area concept stores

… and stay the weekend for the CHA SuperShow 30-31 July, to experience consumer response to this year’s newest trends and products firsthand!

For a complete listing of stores on the retail tour, and to learn how you can participate in the Show and Craft Focus-guided tour, visit www.chareadertrip.com April/May 2010 issue 18 Editor-in-Chief Rebecca Winward +44 (0)1376 535 609 [email protected] contents 26 Editor Emma Zücker +44 (0)1376 535 609 regulars features [email protected] industry news 6 x marks the spot 34 Editorial Assistant We highlight the latest happenings in the industry Take a look at the latest cross stitch products Rianna Fry +44 (0)1376 535 613 [email protected] brand spanking new 17 tried & tested 50 Sales Manager Take a look at these latest product launches We try out some knitting yarns to offer you a Mark White customer perspective +44 (0)1376 535 606 [email protected] the library 24 The latest crafty tomes to inspire and inform college creations 56 Advertising Sales Tracy Voice How to tempt students with the right supplies +44 (0)1376 535 618 competition 31 [email protected] Enter to win Numberjacks craft kits from Creativity kit & caboodle 60 Design Manager International, worth £500 The best all-in-one projects for adults Vicky O'Connor +44 (0)1376 535 616 [email protected] forward thinking 76 stamp duty 67 Graphic Designers Business Link offers advice on business planning Check out the latest rubber stamping trends, Sarah Barnes, Sophie Farage, Laura Perry predicted by those in the know Steve Mckea, Hayley Kilminster +44 (0)1376 535 616 retailer roundup 70 Studio Assistant We talk with some retailers about the Leanne Walsh importance of e-commerce Production Manager Stuart Weatherley tools of the trade 73 Subscriptions Alice Henson, Charlotte Tannett Products to make the most of craft materials +44 (0)1376 514 000 56 KD Media Publishing Limited q&a special 78 Broseley House Industry experts provide advice on some Newlands Drive proﬁ les retail-related business matters Witham, Essex, CM8 2UL, UK building a nest egg 32 www.craftfocus.com Steve Barton explains the family story behind the launch know the facts 81 Cover image courtesy of Inspire Me Papers of his business Krasnaya Nesting Dolls (www.inspiremepapers.co.uk) Neil McFarlane considers insurance liability

ISSN 1758-0900 best of British 39 choosing a web designer 82 Craft Focus is solely owned, published and We speak to Brigantia Needlework’s Kath Jackson about Part two of David Mackley’s advice designed by KD Media Publishing Limited. Whilst the company’s growth and prosperity every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal the knitty gritty 48 responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing Retailer Sue Morgan tells us how her company Get of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. Knitted grew from an online store The views expressed do not necessarily reﬂ ect those of the publisher. Craft Focus is published six times a year. Subscription rates for overseas the body shop 74 readers are £40 per annum (incl. p+p), Cheques Adjustform’s Chris Darwent tells us how introducing should be made out to KD Media Publishing 60 Limited and sent to Craft Focus, Broseley House, new products is key Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex, CM8 2UL, United Kingdom. a walk in the park 90 Find out why crafter Karen Lewis decided to take the shows Craft Focus magazine is proud to be a big success 26 associated with and supporters of: plunge and launch Blueberry Park Exhibitors have their say about February’s Craft MEDIA SUPPORTER special feature Hobby + Stitch International ANTI COPYING IN DESIGN house of cards 41 exceeding expectations 53 Leading suppliers explain how the card making market is The lowdown on the CHA 2010 Winter changing and what products are on trend Convention and Trade Show in California

craftfocus 3

Learn how to make this jewelry design by Fernando Dasilva: www.beadalon.com/princessdream.asp

Happy Birthday Craft Focus! It’s ﬁnally here – the third birthday edition of Craft Focus, in which we have lots of treats for you to enjoy – plus perfect timing for me to introduce myself as the new editor! I’ve now been here >L for a couple of months and am really enjoying getting to know all ?S]W[fWSek you readers, so please continue MVY`V\ to contact me with any news or ideas you may have [VTHRLVTHRL for the magazine. As you probably know, we’ve recently expanded our team in order 9dWSfIf it’s trendspotting you’re interested in, how about rubber stamping? We speak to a group of enthusiasts about their trend predictions for the coming months.

Now, something I’m particularly excited about this issue is our brand new tried and tested feature – and we’re kicking off with knitting yarn. It’s our chance to give a useful consumer perspective on the various products that are available. A lot of you have expressed an interest in seeing more knitting and crochet pieces in Craft Focus, so let’s start as we mean to go on!

In addition, while at the Craft Hobby + Stitch International show, we got chatting to lots of interesting crafty retailers and suppliers, so thought it only ﬁtting to round up some of your thoughts in our review article – turn to page 26 to see if you’ve been featured.

Last of all, we’ve included the usual lot of news and new products for you to peruse, we also talk e-commerce and its importance to your business, plus there’s some useful advice about business planning.

I do hope you enjoy this issue and, again please get in touch with anything crafty you deem important. We want to hear it all! Emma ® Emma Zücker Create Something Great™ Editor www.beadalon.com To ﬁ nd a Beadalon retailer near you, please visit www.beadalon.com/locatewheretobuy.asp

J[[ craftfocus 5 industry news Find out about the latest industry goings-on in our regular roundup

Textile Holiday Tours set to reveal fabric of the nation To celebrate a flourishing interest in arts and crafts, a new company is offering a series of specialist textile discovery tours for 2010, and it’s one of the first of its kind. Five themed tour programmes are scheduled throughout the year and will include excursions and creative workshops plus visits to stately homes, galleries, cathedrals, churches, castles and more. “I realised that there were a lack of holidays in the UK for people interested Craft Focus celebrates its third birthday in all things textile,” explained founder Lorraine Traer-Clark. “With this in You may or may not have been with us from the very inception, mind, I wanted to create a memorable experience to find out more about but we’re sure you’ll be interested to know that Craft Focus the UK’s diverse variety of textiles in stimulating and convivial settings.” Magazine is three years old this issue, and what a fabulous few For more information and to book the tours – which range from three to years it’s been! five nights and start at £375 per person – call +44 (0)1621 869 089, email The sheer transformation, growth and success since issue [email protected] or visit www.textileholidaytours.co.uk. number one, right through to present, has been more than we could have hoped for and it’s all because of your continued support – so thank you all very much. Crafty Kids wins a Creative Play award To celebrate, the incredibly talented Debbie Wigglesworth Crafty Kids, was recently of Inspire Me Papers made us a beautiful paper birthday cake honoured to pick up a Creative which was unveiled at Craft Hobby + Stitch International, and Play award alongside some also features on this issue’s front cover. other prestigious toy companies. Debbie tells us the cake was so popular at the show, the firm The company, which produces will be launching the design to all very soon, so watch this space. puppet and craft kits for We’d like to wish Inspire Me Papers a happy birthday too – children, won the category for they’ve also just turned three years old. Children’s Class Packs, with their And, as you may know, Craft Focus has been doing so well ‘dry pack’ Horse Puppet kits. of late that the decision was made to bring in a dedicated Crafty Kids’ kits usually include everything – even tools – but these ‘dry editor – Emma Zücker – meaning we can offer even more news, pack’ kits come simply packaged in bags of 10, and are specially produced for products, interviews and information which we hope you’ll find teachers, party planners and workshop leaders who already have brushes, very useful – perfect timing to celebrate our coming of age. paints and glue to hand. Each individual bag holds an instruction sheet, So please don’t stop with your contributions and support – cardboard cones, tubes, manes and tails, and the special tags needed to we’d love to hear from you just as much as ever, so log onto complete and thread the puppets together. the website at www.craftfocus.com or alternatively email us at The packs have a trade price of £19.50 (per 10), and, aside from the [email protected] to have your say. winning Horse Puppet kit, there are another eight designs available. Pictured from left to right is Craft Focus sales representative To find out more visit the ‘dry packs’ section of the website at Tracy Voice, paper cake designer Debbie Wigglesworth and www.craftykids.co.uk. To order any of the products or for more details please Craft Focus editor Emma Zücker. contact Crafty Kids’ distributor Asobi on +44 (0)1628 200 077. Happy Birthday Craft Focus!

6 craftfocus news & events

Paperworld has another successful year Around 104,000 trade visitors from 142 countries attended the trade fair quartet of Paperworld, Christmasworld, Beautyworld and Hair and Beauty from 30th January to 2nd February 2010. This means that, despite the unpleasant weather conditions, around 4,000 more buyers made their way to Frankfurt am Main than the year before. This year, 45,521 visitors from 142 countries made their way to Paperworld – Leading International Trade Fair for Paper, Office Supplies and Stationery – in Frankfurt – an increase of 3,695 visitors. Every second visitor came from outside Germany. The top five visitor nations after Germany were Italy, France, The Netherlands, Great Britain and Switzerland. Representing the paper, office supplies and stationery, festive decorations, beauty and cosmetics and the hair-cosmetic industry, a total of 3,438 exhibitors from 67 countries made presentations at the four events. “We are delighted that the four consumer-goods fairs have once again been able to kick off the business year in an optimistic way for the sectors taking part,” said Dr Michael Peters, Member of the Board of Management of Messe Frankfurt GmbH. “The economic crisis was much less in evidence. The trade and industry are becoming more sanguine and their ideas are more and more creative.”

Create and Craft scoops top awards New marketing manager at EQS Readers of Crafts Beautiful, Let’s Make Cards and Let’s Get Philippa Ackers has been appointed the new Crafting voted Create and Craft the winner of both Best Craft marketing manager at Leicester-based textile Mail Order Company and Best Craft Shopping Channel at the company EQS, supporting the company’s recent 2009 Craft Awards. expansion into a wider textile craft market. Special congratulations also go to Create and Craft favourite “In reality we have changed the nature of our Stephanie Weightman, who picked up the coveted Best Overall business from traditional wholesaler to a wholesaler Card Designer of the Year award – a throughly successful night that designs and packages,” said Graeme Wright of in all for Create and Craft. EQS. “By bringing Philippa into the team, we now “We are delighted to have won two honours in these awards, have the resources to do the job properly. The initial which are renowned in the industry as they are voted for by reaction to our needlecraft range has been outstanding.” the people who matter – the crafters themselves,” said Tony For her part, Philippa relishes the challenges of the new role. “In addition to Sheridan, Create and Craft Director. “I congratulate everyone working on the needlework programme, I will be building a new website with who works hard to ensure Create and Craft is the best – from online ordering, and we have also scheduled a new catalogue for spring – so the staff behind the scenes, to the presenters, guests and even I will certainly be kept busy,” said Philippa. “There are not many companies the suppliers who all pull together as a team to make crafting that continue to show the growth and diversification plans of EQS. It is a very such fun!” exciting time to be involved.” Create and Craft, the dedicated craft channel, can be seen on For further information on EQS, email [email protected] or alernatively Sky 671, Freeview 36, Freesat 813 or watched via the website visit the website at www.eqsuk.com. www.createandcraft.tv. For more information on Ideal Shopping Direct visit www.idealshoppingdirect.co.uk. 10th birthday celebrations for The Bead Shop A local Nottingham business, which has grown from a tiny venture into a flourishing shop and mail-order company, is now 10 years old and operates from a five-storey property in Market Street, central Brighton. Hana and Robin own and run the company, which they started when Hana was just 18 years old – and they now employ 13 members of staff as well as running a popular series of workshops offering a variety of classes for wide ranging abilities. To celebrate their 10th birthday The Bead Shop threw a special party in January – there were various party activities, cake, tea, a ‘Create Your Style’ gallery and special party bags for the first 50 customers, worth up to £25. “We’re really excited to have celebrated such a landmark achievement, especially as the bead market is far more competitive than it was in 2000,” said director Robin. To find out more about The Bead Shop visit the website at www.mailorder-beads.co.uk.

craftfocus 7 industry news

Staples joins forces with HMRC A major campaign has been launched to help small businesses and the self-employed get their books in order. Offi ce supplies expert Staples is supporting HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) in an innovative partnership that is aiming to promote and encourage good, accurate record- keeping habits. Many people don’t realise that a change in the law, introduced last year, means that there are penalties if you do not to take reasonable care with fi nancial paperwork. The campaign is designed to get over some record keeping hurdles and the message is simple – ‘do a little, do it often’. “We are delighted to be working in partnership with HMRC,” said Yetunde Ige, Staples Head of Marketing. “As the UK’s largest supplier of offi ce equipment, we are in a perfect position to promote this important message.” For more information go to www.staplesforbusiness.co.uk or businesslink.gov.uk/hmrctaxhelp/.

PriceMinister works Ooh.com offers a new way to list craft against counterfeit events and goods on the web workshops PriceMinister – the online A new site, going marketplace in the UK and by the name of e-commerce website in France Ooh.com, gives – has recently announced anyone who offers a market-leading strategy craft and creative to protect consumers from courses, classes counterfeit products. In or workshops November 2009, statistics in the the chance to fourth edition of the CtoC study list their activities of PriceMinister/LaPoste by OpinionWay showed that there is more pressure online for free. People from all over the UK are registering from European consumers for protection against fake goods. their craft activities – from jewellery making classes to paint PriceMinister signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in December fi nish workshops and card making classes, and from tapestry 2009 with Christine Lagarde, Minister of Economy in France, to fi ght against weaving weekends to upholstery and furniture restoration counterfeit goods on the internet, in partnership with luxury brands and courses. professional associations from around the globe. It is completely free to be listed on the site, and by The MoU, the fi rst of its kind in Europe to associate online marketplaces and uploading dates and payment methods, those offering the various industries, was drafted by Bernard Brochand (MP) and Professor Pierre courses can also take direct bookings from customers. The Sirinelli, and it creates a framework of co-operation between websites and site has over 300 craft activities currently listed, and the rights holders to implement tools to identify and fi ght the selling of counterfeit number is growing daily. For more information and to list products on the internet. your events visit the website at www.ooh.com. For more information about PriceMinister visit www.priceminister.co.uk.

We Make London summer spectacular This summer, the team behind the hugely successful We Make designer craft shows will offer visitors the chance to shop in serene surroundings of the charming Chelsea Town Hall, London, following the success of their fair in December. The event will welcome 80 hand-picked exhibitors offering a wide range of eco-friendly hand-crafted gift ideas, and there will also be craft activities for adults and children, as well as a delicious menu of home-baked treats. In the current climate, price-conscious consumers are being selective and want something special – the We Make London designer makers perfectly sum up this new mood in shopping. “It’s time to take a refreshing break from high street monotony into the exceptional world of handmade, with beautiful items made with love by some very gifted makers,” said organiser, Mary McDermott. We Make Summer Spectacular is open from 11am – 5pm on Saturday, 26th June. For further information visit the website at www.wemakelondon.blogspot.com.

8 craftfocus

'UHVV,WXS%HDGV &RORXUFRPELQDWLRQVSDFNV6HPL3UHFLRXV A new and exciting company supplying a vast range of ﬁndings *HPVWRQHV 3HQGDQWV to shops and internet retailers only

We now have in stock 1 ton of lucite ﬂowers and leaves, glass pearls, crystal rondells, metal beads and ﬁndings. Below is a small selection of our NEW RANGE that has just arrived.

1RPLQLPXPRUGHU For a catalogue contact Bead Time Unit 16 Shepperton Business Park, Govett Avenue 7HO Shepperton, Middlesex, TW17 8BA (PDLOVDOHV#GUHVVLWXSEHDGVFRXN Tel: 01932 244700 :HEZZZGUHVVLWXSEHDGVFRXN You can view our range on our retail website www.beadtime.co.uk news & events

Creative Products Distribution is launched GFSmith wins award for its creative contribution by Mark Wilson It has been announced that GFSmith Following many years’ experience in has been enrolled in the Design Week craft trade, Mark Wilson has launched a Awards Hall of Fame – a coveted new distributing ﬁrm, Creative Products industry accolade, presented to Distribution. Mark is passionate about organisations that consistently contribute service, innovation, packaging and excellence to the design world. delivery, and has been responsible for This year, GFSmith has been honoured spotting many trends over the years. alongside two other great British He is able to quickly bring new ranges institutions – The Guardian and Selfridges – and joins an impressive rank of into the market, whilst managing many previous recipients that includes Apple, The V&A and The National Gallery. well-known brands in the craft industry. The ﬁrm has been recognised for being the foremost purveyor of Creative Product Distribution now offers a wide range distinctive papers to the creative community, but this award equally of products and will act as the supplier for US and UK craft commends its inspirational contribution to the industry. Promoting creative companies such as Beacon Adhesives, Bosal Foam and Fibre, talent is a fundamental part of GFSmith’s ethos. Belagio, The Bead Buddy, Easy Arranger, Painters Pyramid and Throughout its 115 years, the company has worked with top designers, the Nantucket Bagg Company. Over time Creative Products photographers and artists – from Rankin to Sir Peter Blake – producing well- Distribution hopes to continually add new products to its regarded promotional materials, publications and events. assortment, and welcomes any interested manufacturers to get GFSmith tells us that this award is accepted with deep honour and pride in touch. – and will serve as a beacon of inspiration for the company’s continued For further details or to arrange a meeting, please contact commitment to connect with, and support, the creative world. Mark Wilson by calling +44 (0)7917 563 267, emailing Pictured is Phil Alexander, joint Managing Director of GFSmith. For further [email protected] or visiting the website at information, call +44 (0)1482 323 503 or log on to www.gfsmith.com. www.creative-distribution.co.uk.

Sewing website has 20,000 hits per month Stitchtastic releases top 20 best sellers ISEW is an online sewing of 2009 resource providing techniques, After a successful projects, expert advice, news year, cross and much more, all completely stitch specialist free of charge. It is is backed by Stitchtastic nine leading brands including decided to Bernina, Brother, Janome and find out its 20 Singer sewing machines, Simplicity best-selling kits from last year, and bring them to the fore Creative Group, Hemline and in 2010. Designer Sarah used the top cross stitch designs Craft Factory haberdashery when putting together trade packs, which were displayed at companies, Berisford Ribbons, Craft Hobby + Stitch International. It was hoped that this and John Kaldor Fabrics. would help retailers choose the best package of designs Every month new projects, from Stitchtastic’s 600-plus selection. techniques and how-tos are “We offer our trade partners a free choice over our added, together with news of entire range, with no minimum order,” explained Sarah. the latest products, workshops “Many retailers like to offer the whole range to their and classes, book reviews and customers, and keep our catalogues for customers to show previews. A comprehensive browse through. However, others appreciate some guidance sewing dictionary explains most on the most popular designs.” of the sewing terms consumers The number one best-selling design for Stitchtastic in will ever need – and there’s also a number of DVD clips to bring a virtual tutor 2009 was its caricature of Lewis Hamilton’s Formula One directly to their homes. McLaren car, followed closely by the Subaru Impreza design. There’s also a useful suppliers’ directory in which retailers and other suppliers To find out more about the best-selling designs of 2009, can add their details, so that browsers get instant access to them at the click of a or to order from the whole range, contact Sarah or Patrick button – this is also free of charge. The website has approximately 20,000 visitors on +44 (0)114 235 3958, email [email protected], or every month, but to find out more visit www.isew.co.uk. visit the website at www.stitchtastic.com.

craftfocus 11 industry news

London debut for Stationery Show This month’s Stationery Show in London is a timely opportunity for craft shops and retailers to check out new stationery products on the market. The exhibition includes a number of art and craft suppliers, such as Chelford, Payper Box, Tallon, Decopatch from Tollit & Harvey, Wabbo and WAP International. Writing instrument suppliers who are exhibiting include Zebra Pens, Stabilo, MoLin, Diplomat Pen, Online and Gelcy, and Stabilo will showing its new EASY Ergonomics range of pens and pencils. Fashion-led notebooks and pads will be very much to the fore with the latest offerings from Addject, Atlanta, Carolina Pad in America, Tollit & Harvey, plus many more, and there are also diaries, organisers and journals from Castelli, Tallon, Quo Vadis (Tollit & Harvey), Dicey Diaries and Esposti. The Stationery Show takes place alongside the Ofﬁce Products Show at the Business Design Centre in London on Tuesday 13th and Wednesday 14th April. For more information and to register for free admission, visit www. sopx.co.uk or alternatively call +44 (0)20 8462 0721. Henkel relaunches iconic Sellotape brand Sellotape, which launched in 1937, will have a milestone year in 2010. In March it relaunched, following a £2.5m investment into the development, repositioning and redesign of the entire range. The launch strategy will include above-the-line commitment of £2 million, which will appear later in the year. The redesign, created by London-based agency Tynan D’arcy, will deliver a new logo, packaging and product range to the UK, which centres on the premise of ‘simple ingenuity.’ The new Sellotape range, developed by Henkel, will offer a four-part segmentation, with each offering a response to the brand positioning of ‘simple ingenuity’ – Every Day, Craft, Home Ofﬁce and Gifting, all of which will deliver new products, innovations and solutions. For more information on Selloptape's relaunch, visit the website at www.henkel.com.

Reselling embossing powders made easier Embossing specialist Powder Arts is working with retailers to encourage and help them demonstrate their range of WOW Embossing Powders, Embossing Glitters and Flocks. For approved retailers, an amount of demonstration product is provided free of charge, and all WOW products are sold under an exchange system – which eliminates the risk of taking on new items. If a colour or effect doesn’t sell, then it can be exchanged for another at no charge. The company hopes this will encourage shops and demonstrators to offer and sell a greater variety of products and effects. For more information call Steve Davis at Powder Arts +44 (0)870 777 8781, or email [email protected].

12 craftfocus industry news

PAYE attention to spring returns filing changes for employers HM Revenue & Customs HMRC is writing to all employers this month to remind then that, from this year, they must file their Employer Annual Returns online by the 19th May deadline – there is no longer a paper filing option for small employers with fewer than 50 staff. So, if you file your return on paper, even before 19th May, you could receive a penalty. To file online, employers must register with HMRC’s service, PAYE Online – they can do this by visiting the website at www.hmrc.gov.uk/paye and clicking ‘Register for PAYE Online’. Smaller employers can then use HMRC’s own free software to file their employee data securely online, while larger employers can purchase a range of commercial software. Alternatively, an intermediary can file on an employer’s behalf. Find inspiration on an exclusive Chicago retail tour Further help on employer filing is available from the As part of Craft Focus’ reader trip to the upcoming Craft & Hobby Association HMRC website at www.hmrc.gov.uk/paye, or from HMRC’s 2010 Summer Convention & Trade Show, participants will have the opportunity Employer CD-ROM, which is being sent to all employers. to join magazine staff on a guided tour of several leading US craft and hobby retailers, to experience best-in-class retailing practices at Chicago craft stores. During the tour, the group will see some of the most advanced and innovative retailing practices in the marketplace today, providing readers with inspiration, insights and retailing practices that can be adopted in their own stores. Destinations on the tour include big-box stores Jo-Ann Fabrics & Crafts and Michaels, as well as speciality stores Pearl Art & Craft Supplies and Blick Art Materials. The tour will also incorporate visits to a number of innovative Chicago- area concept stores specialising in various crafts. The tour will take place in conjunction with the CHA 2010 Summer Show, to be held between 27th – 29th July in Rosemont, Illinois, just outside of Chicago. For a complete listing of the stores taking part and to learn how you can participate, visit www.chareadertrip.com.

New Photoshop guide is launched The new Photoshop book Just the Skinny (2nd Edition) is easy to start, quick to get through, and focuses on how to develop an initial mastery of this popular design program. The chapters build in logical progression, each adding a skill, meaning readers ﬁrst learn the easy methods – and then the more complex techniques. Each chapter discusses a subject in its entirety, but is split into manageable chunks, so progress is made quickly. The 200-page book includes about 750 graphics, screen shots and images in an uncluttered, easy-to-read format. For more information on this publication by Stephen Farnow, visit the website at www.justtheskinny.com.

14 craftfocus Sock Yarn Specialists UK Distributor for Opal Trekking Zitron WoollyWormhead Patterns Lucy Neatby Books, Patterns & DVDs

Knitting Needles & Accessories

Trade enquiries e: [email protected] t: 0117 3005244 www.viridianyarn.com

Step 1: No-Fire Make & Take Pottery Painting for parties, Choose Pottery workshops, fundraising projects, craft fairs and events (many other designs entertainment. Country Love Ceramics is UK distributor for available, sizes range from 2cm to 40cm.) the DecoArt range of acrylic products.These paints look fantastic on our ceramics even for those people with little skill or experience! We have over 1,000 shapes to choose from including toppers/magnets, money boxes, photo frames, clock faces, plaques, ornaments and beads. Step 2: Trade prices start from 27p. Add colour & varnish (large range of colours, Please feel free to ring us for further details varnishes & mediums 01235 861700 available.) See the full range on the websites below. Country Love Ceramics Limited Unit 37d Milton Park Abingdon Oxon OX14 4RT Phone (01235) 861700 Fax (01235) 861900 www.countryloveceramics.com Step 3: www.decoartuk.co.uk Paint & varnish [email protected] These aren’t just any ribbons! These are Ribbon Designs’ original, best selling, award-winning, eye-catching, frequently imitated, still the best, pre-packed ribbons. Available in Silk, Satin, Spark Organdy, Metal Organdy & Rat Tail Quick, easy and profitable sales

5LEERQ'HVLJQV PO Box 382, Edgware, Middlesex HA8 7XQ Tel: 020 8958 4966 Email: [email protected] www.ribbondesigns.co.uk news & Take a look at some of the latest products around events brand spanking new Dress It Up Beads

Product: Semi Precious bead packs Contact: +44 (0)1460 242 221 or www.dressitupbeads.co.uk Price: RRP £3.49 Speciﬁ cation: The bead pack contains one large stone – glass, quartz, cinnabar and amber being some of the choices – with co-ordinating beads to work alongside. The stone collection consists of rocks and minerals taken from the seas and mountains, which come from various parts of the world. There are enough beads in the pack to make a necklace, and there are currently six different styles in stock. Retailer beneﬁ ts: There is no minimum order value or quantity, which means it it easier to try out the products and see how they sell before committing to stocking a larger quantity. Other information: The product comes in packs of between 28g and 35g.

Michael Powell Cross Stitch

Product: Mini Spring Cottages Contact: +44 (0)29 2079 6000 or www.michaelpowellcross-stitch-art.co.uk Price: RRP £16.99 Speciﬁ cation: These designs are ideal now that the weather is improving, and thoughts of lazy, warm days are upon us – and these new Cottage scenes complement existing ranges. Retailer beneﬁ ts: The company’s extensive collection does include something for all levels of stitchers so reaches a wider range of customers. Other information: The cross stitch kits are produced on 14 HPI Aida, and the designs are sized at 125mm x 125mm.

Potterycrafts

Product: Cernit Contact: +44 (0)1782 745 000 or www.potterycrafts.co.uk Price: RRP £1.99 Specifi cation: Cernit is a natural clay mixed with plastic, known as an oven ceramic. It is soft and easy to work with straight from the packet. When kneading the clay to its softness, it does not stick to crafters’ hands or fi ngers. Retailer benefi ts: This is the fi rst time the clay has become generally available in the UK, so retailers have a good chance to sell something which isn’t yet readily available. Other information: Cernit comes in 62g packs, and is available in 70 colours.

La Fourmi

Product: 3D clear stickers Contact: +32 2687 7629 or www.lafourmi.eu Price: £1.25 – £1.95 per card Specifi cation: The stickers are composed of three or four layers of printed clear fi lm, separated by mini adhesive foam balls. They give a modern and trendy effect, and can be used for card making, scrapbooking, and also as decorative accents on other surfaces like wood and canvas. They have denser colours and are much more resistant than paper 3D stickers. Retailer benefi ts: The products are great as impulse buys as the packaging is attention-catching – ideal for a counter display. Other information: The cards measure from 8cm x 16cm to 12cm x 18cm, each card holds between fi ve and nine stickers, and there are six design options.

craftfocus 17 brand spanking new

Button Bag

Product: Mouse House kits Contact: +44 (0)20 8525 1640 or www.buttonbag.co.uk Price: RRP £10 Speciﬁcation: The recently introduced Mouse House kits include enough ready-cut felt shapes to make six rainbow-coloured mice and two pieces of cheese to go with them. Retailer beneﬁts: The colourful retro packaging means the product will really stand out on shop shelves. Other information: Buttonbag’s Mouse House is an ideal starter sewing kit for children and will keep them entertained for hours.

Bead Time

Product: Bead Fairy tool kits Contact: +44 (0)1932 244 700 or www.beadtime.co.uk Price: RRP £12.50 Specification: Bead Fairy is a new brand that encompasses a range of craft tools and equipment. The tool kits are affordable and contain cutters, chain nose, round nose and square edge flat pliers, plus a bead scoop. Retailer benefits: The eye-catching packaging is attention-grabbing to all sorts of crafters. Other information: The kits are available in a range of soft pastel colours or in a striking zebra print.

Paintworks

Product: Leporello Concertina Pads Contact: +44 (0)20 7729 7451 or www.paintworks.biz Price: RRP £7.99 Specification: Leporello pads consist of a long piece of paper folded into a concertina. This creates 70 separate A5 working surfaces, but when the pad is fully opened, there are five metres of continuous paper. Retailer benefits: The novel concertina format makes for an interesting display sketchbook. In addition, the high quality 140gsm cartridge paper appeals to both professionals and amateurs. Other information: The product includes hard black cloth end-covers and a protective case.

Tactic Games

Product: What Everyone Should Know About range Contact: +44 (0)1483 751 267 or www.tacticgames.co.uk Price: RRP £13.99 Speciﬁcation: The Tactic 2010 collection includes 31 new products including travel, educational and family games. The What Everyone Should Know About range was launched at Spring Fair, and gives consumers the chance to learn different things about the world we live in. Retailer beneﬁts: As the games are part of a large product series, there is an incentive for customers to return and purchase again. Other information: New titles include Great Inventions, Travelling in Europe, The Amazing Earth and Trends & Lifestyles.

18 craftfocus

brand spanking new

DMC Creative World

Product: Cuddly Creaturez tapestry kit Contact: +44 (0)116 275 4000 or www.dmccreative.co.uk Price: On application Speciﬁcation: These are beginners’ tapestry kits printed in full colour onto white duo canvas, which can be completed in half cross stitch, using DMC Soft Cotton. There are six design choices – frog, dinosaur, penguin, squirrel, bear and dog – and they measure 13cm x 18cm when complete. Retailer beneﬁts: These quick and simple-to-stitch tapestry kits are a great crafty starting point for children. Other information: A number of other tapestry and cross stitch kits are available to inspire and delight children and adults. Dremel

Product: Dremel 7700 Hobby cordless multi-tool Contact: +44 (0)844 736 0170 or www.dremel.com Price: RRP £49.99 Specification: A new addition to the existing array of products, the Dremel 7700 Hobby multi-tool is cordless and therefore allows for greater mobility and flexibility. It has two speed settings, giving the crafter more control and helping them to improve their accuracy. Retailer benefits: Dremel is a well-known brand that produces quality crafting products. This tool can be used for a variety of crafts, and so appeals to a wide audience. Other information: The multi-tool can be used when carrying out many engraving projects, such as decorations on glassware, ceramics and wood.

Topcor

Product: Clipa Contact: +44 (0)1949 680 3434 or www.clipa.us Price: RRP from around £13.20 Specification: These bags are of high quality and can hold up to 45lb, so perfect as an alternative to plastic bags. They have been machine tested to last for up to 10 years if used daily. The specially-angled, non-slip pads on both ends provide full surface contact on tables, and the hidden automatic closure system gives the product strength and durability. Retailer benefits: Opening orders start at around £75, they are an easy add-on at point of sale, and tend to sell throughout the year. Other information: The Clipa is available in eight finishes – polished silver, polished gold, brushed silver, brushed gold, hematite, white, pink and abalone.

Rowan

Product: Rowan by Amy Butler yarn Contact: +44 (0)1484 690 806 or www.knitrowan.com Price: RRP £5.50, per 50g ball of Belle Organic DK & Aran, and RRP £9.95, for Midwest Modern Knits Specification: Launching in April 2010 is the collection of new yarn and designs by Amy Butler. Midwest Modern Knits is a book of designs, with a unique mix of fashion, accessories and homewares inspired by various textures and shapes, available alongside the Belle Organic DK and Aran yarn. Retailer Benefits: The yarn is fully certified as organic and is therefore ethical – satisfying even the most environmentally astute knitter. Other information: The yarn is fashioned in elemental colour tones, varying from basil, moss and tomato through to zinc and slate.

20 craftfocus news & events

CJ Beaders

Product: ColorArtz Contact: +44 (0)1934 853 375 or www.cjbtrade.co.uk Price: Airbrush, RRP £12.99, Paint Pouches, RRP £3.99 Speciﬁcation: The Airbrush is easy to use, and crafters can change colours within seconds. Ideal for use on fabrics, the paints are washable and the Paint Pouches are re-sealable. Retailer beneﬁts: ColorArtz can be used for other hobbies and crafts, for example card making, scrapbooking, fabric or silk painting and modelling. Other information: Paints are available in a range of more than 30 colours, and can be used on card, wood, metal and fabric.

Burhouse Beads

Product: New bead range Contact: +44 (0)1484 485 100 or www.burhousebeads.com Price: On application Speciﬁcation: Following the success of its previous glass bead range, Burhouse Beads is launching a new line of AAA quality cut glass beads in popular colours that will appeal to the younger generation as well as more mature crafters. Retailer beneﬁts: Beading is becoming increasingly popular to a range of crafters, and consumers’ bead collections are frequently expanding. Other information: The beads are available in a variety of shapes including bi-cones, hearts and drops.

EQS

Product: Counted Cross Stitch Collection designed by Zoe Halstead Contact: +44 (0)116 271 0033 Price: RRPs range from £9.99 to £17.99 Speciﬁcation: The collection contains 14 HPI cross stitch designs, comprising of six 4” x 4” mini occasions samplers, four 10” x 12” street scenes, and a selection of Christmas patterns. Retailer beneﬁts: Each kit contains genuine Zweigart fabric, and the mini occasion samplers contain enough fabric to stitch up four of the designs. They also include full 10m packs of Madeira Mouline Stranded Cotton in every colour required – EQS tells us it’s the only company in the industry to offer this in ready-made packs. Other information: The kits range from 4” x 4” inches to 10” x 12”, with one kit worked on 2” wide Aida band. All packaging is either A4 or A5 size.

Jolly Red

Product: Needlepoint kits Contact: +44 (0)1460 281 111 or www.jollyred.co.uk Price: RRP from £15.50 to £59 Speciﬁcation: These new additions to Jolly Red’s tapestry range, include 10 HPI colour printed canvas with reference chart, Anchor wool, needle and instructions. Retailer beneﬁts: The kits are both designed and manufactured in the UK to support the local market, and are accessible to stitchers of all levels. Other information: There are two kits available – the Old English Hen or the Chick Chick Chicken tea cosy.

craftfocus 21 brand spanking new

Country Love Ceramics

Product: Pottery blanks and acrylic paints Contact: +44 (0)1235 861 700 or www.countryloveceramics.co.uk Price: On application Speciﬁcation: Pottery painting does not require artistic skill – it’s like painting with numbers. However, it is a suitable new medium to try for those who are artistic. Last year Country Love Ceramics became a UK distributor for the DecoArt range of acrylic paints, which is great for creating instant ‘make and take’ kits including paints, brushes, varnish and pottery. Retailer beneﬁts: The pottery blanks and paints are suitable for kits which can be used in workshops, fundraising projects, parties, craft fairs and event entertainment. Other information: Pottery blank sizes range from 2cm to 40cm, and there are over 1,000 shapes to choose from including toppers/magnets, money boxes, photo frames, clock faces, plaques, ornaments and beads.

L B Crafts

Product: Ten Seconds Studio metal embossing tools and supplies Contact: +44 (0)1234 714 848 or www.lbcrafts.com Price: RRPs from £14.30 for the moulds, and £2.25 for a pack of metal sheets Specification: Ten Seconds Studio presents two new moulds – the Big Daddy double-sided mould in green which is 12cm square, and the Kabuka double-sided orange mould that’s approximately 12cm x 21cm. Retailer benefits: Metal embossing is a popular new craft trend which is versatile, and lends itself to all styles of crafts including scrapbooking, rubber stamping, altered art and jewellery making. Other information: The metal sheets are now available in peacock, hot pink diamond, bronzed gold and gold nugget colourways. Pinflair

Product: New series of cards Contact: +44 (0)1992 582 712 or www.pinflair.co.uk/trade Price: RRP £1.65 Specification: One of the recent additions to Pinflair’s product range is a series of cards which come in packs. Each pack contains a creased card, matching craft sheet, envelope, and instructions, all presented in an A4 polypropylene bag with Euro hook, ready for display. Retailer benefits: There are currently 40 designs in the range that can be purchased individually, allowing the retailer to select the designs they wish to stock. Other information: The range of products can be used for a variety of craft techniques including pyramage and decoupage, while some have also been designed for use with the Pinflair Multi Punch.

Whitecroft Essentials

Product: Rapid staplers and glue guns Contact: +44 (0)1594 562 631 or www.whitecroft.co.uk Price: On application Speciﬁcation: Whitecroft Essentials announces the introduction of new products from Rapid including Fun to Fix staplers and glue guns. The staplers are available in a variety of colours and cover a range of purposes. The range includes a cordless point gun, which is perfect for more detailed work. Retailer beneﬁts: Rapid is a well-known brand, meaning consumers are likely to trust the quality of the products. Other information: Another addition to the glue gun range is a low-temperature gun, ideal for use with textiles and polystyrene.

22 craftfocus

Quilt Romance Bringing together a collection of 20 the library patchwork and quilt Rianna Fry looks at craft books that will designs for varying skill get your customers’ creative juices flowing... levels, Quilt Romance will appeal to fans of Knitted Pirates, classic design. This Princesses, Witches, book combines Wizards & Fairies wonderful images, The creation of knitted dolls has templates and now been made accessible to all instructions, knitters, even those who don’t with patchwork consider themselves experts. This know-how and distributor book works with basic knitting and stockist information, meaning the reader methods and widely available yarns has all the information needed to create a beautifully to inspire crafters to create five finished craft project. knitted dolls along with accessories The book’s glossary of terms informs novices of and clothing, transforming the technical jargon they may not have come across before, characters into mini pirates, princess, giving it a friendly approach. Providing all the information witches, wizards and fairies. Based to get started, plus an appealing tone, this a a valued around the same designs, there are addition to any crafting library. instructions for five further dolls including a Santa Claus. Quilt Romance has an RRP of £17.95 and is published Each doll consists of the same knitted body so once the knitter has by Rowan. For more information visit the website at created that, they can unleash their creativity and bring it to life in whichever www.knitrowan.com, or call +44 (0)1484 681 881. way they wish. The book inspires crafters – old and young – to and work on a knitting project that promises a quirky, fun end result. Complete Origami Knitted Pirates, Princesses, Witches, Wizards & Fairies has an RRP of £12.99 The ancient and is published by Search Press. For more information visit the website at craft of origami www.searchpress.com, or call +44 (0)1892 510 850. is inexpensive and therapeutic, and transforms Scandinavian Needlecraft seemingly ordinary pieces This beautifully illustrated book by of paper into designer Clare Youngs brings the art of miniature works Scandinavian designs into your customers’ of art. Complete homes. The book is freshly designed, just Origami by like the products, which are introduced David Mitchell with a brief snippet of background makes this paper information about the heritage of the craft achievable, designs, and Clare’s tips on how to make the with its step-by- most of them – an approach that makes the book friendly and personal. step directions assisting beginners in completing projects that Clearly presented, the instructions break down each step, and everyone is they can be proud of. demonstrated by the drawn images. In addition, the last section of the book Offering projects of three complexity levels, this book enables includes templates and stitch guides, along with stitching techniques. There is folders to work on designs that are reflective of their abilities. also a list of both UK- and USA-based suppliers which informs needlecraft As the reader becomes more confident they can progress onto novices where they can purchase the materials needed. the higher stages – which seems to become quite addictive! Scandinavian Design has an RRP of £12.99 and is published by Cico Complete Origami has an RRP of £16.99 and is published by Books. For more information visit the website at www.cicobooks.co.uk, or Collins & Brown. For more information visit the website at telephone +44 (0)1256 302 692. www.anovabooks.com, or telephone +44 (0)141 306 3100.

24 craftfocus Creative Embellishing Vamp up dated garments and furnishings – with a bit of beading here and stitching there crafters can create a whole new look from a plain white tee. Creative Embellishing brings together a library of techniques that can transform clothing, accessories and home furnishings. The step- by-step processes are broken down so that the skills are obtainable to all. Your customers will be able to use the skills they develop with this book to design creations of their own. Split into three main chapters, the book will constantly challenge whilst suggesting new ideas to freshen up the dullest of things. At the back of the book is a resources list which provides a starting block for each project. Creative Embellishing has an RRP of £16.99 and is published by Collins & Brown. For more information visit the website at www.anovabooks.com, or telephone +44 (0)1413 063 100.

The New Stranded Colorwork Any knitting enthusiasts looking for a perfect source of patterns and pieces to get excited about will enjoy The New Stranded Colorwork by Mary Scott Huff. This beautifully- ﬁnished book contains gorgeous images and designs that enable the crafter to create knitted garments for all of the family. The personal introduction of each project gives the book a modest, conversational style making it user-friendly and pleasant to read. Jam-packed with knitting know-how, including information on terms and techniques, this book will keep customers on their toes and craft them into knitting geniuses. The New Stranded Colorwork has an RRP of £17.99 and is published by Search Press. For more information visit the website www.searchpress.com, or telephone +44 (0)1892 510 850. C

craftfocus 25 a big success

One of Europe’s biggest craft trade shows took place at the NEC in Birmingham in February, and by all accounts it was a resounding success...

Creative craft industry buyers braved the Director David Bennett. “Many exhibitors was deﬁ nitely worthwhile,” she said. “Winning snowy conditions in the Midlands a few weeks took more orders than last year and made the prize money was simply brilliant – I was ago to attend one of Europe’s biggest trade new contact with buyers and the press. The given £1,000, and I spent £10,000! I love going shows for the art, craft, needlecraft and hobby Nordic countries in particular have shown a to the show – I’ve been visiting for seven or industry – Craft Hobby + Stitch International marked increase in visitors – we have seen eight years now and I wouldn’t miss it. There’s 2010 was held at the NEC, Birmingham, from growing interest from this area over the last always something new and exciting and there 21st to 23rd February. The craft industry is still few years, and we expect to see this new are strong links to the Irish market. I was very reporting growth as more people embrace relationship building with key trade contacts impressed with the découpage coming back creativity and turn towards ‘handmade and and magazines. Exhibitors see this show as very strongly, as we have a shop which sells art personalised’ as a lifestyle factor. the perfect platform to launch new products, and craft supplies. We also have a catalogue Exhibitors reported an excellent ‘buzz’ at which is always a strong draw for retailers and selling art and craft to the education market.” the show, which saw a good attendance with buyers as they get an exclusive chance to see Congratulations are also in order for our serious global and British buyers placing a high and test what is coming to the market before competition winners Valerie Stringer and Olive level of orders with over 200 exhibitors who it hits the shops.” Rogers of The Card Crew, as well as Vikki were showcasing new products and supplies. ICHF gave away £1,000 spending money Carter of Capture The Magic – they enjoyed The Bright Sparks Pavilion offered a location to one lucky retailer on every day of the a hotel stay at the NEC as well as a pass to for new companies with a bright stand fascia, show, and the winners were able to use their the show, plus lunch with the show organisers dedicated editorial in the show guide, and prize money with any company exhibiting and Craft Focus staff, which they tell us they space on the New Product Showcase – and it at the show. One of the lucky winners was thoroughly enjoyed! was sponsored by Craft Focus. Mrs Mary Creavin-Luddin from Cregal Art in Craft Hobby + Stitch International returns “We had some very good feedback from Southern Ireland. “I travelled from home in to the NEC in 2011 from 20th – 22nd February, the exhibitors, with positive reports about Galway, leaving at 1am, and I got home at 2am with new products and industry insights for the the quality of visitor,” said ICHF’s Managing the next day – so it was a long journey, but it creative craft, art and hobby industry. C

26 craftfocus show review

Tim Lockey, Words Like Honey +44 (0)1462 639 829 www.wordslikehoney.com “As this was the fi rst time we had exhibited at the ICHF show, we didn’t know quite what to expect. Our range has a different look and feel to what is readily available. The majority of our products are catering to a niche market of Christian card makers and scrapbookers, which have been sadly ignored in the UK. We were overwhelmed by the positive response when people looked at the range. We had hoped to tempt buyers to try the range, but we were defi nitely not expecting this much enthusiasm, interest and Gillian Harris, GillianGladrag number of orders taken.” +44 (0)1306 711 412 www.gilliangladrag.co.uk Gill Ferris, Bead Time +44 (0)1932 244 700 “The show went very well indeed for GillianGladrag and we were thrilled at the feedback received for our innovative www.beadtime.co.uk packaging and colourful designs. Our range of 10 large feltmaking kits and six Celebratedly Compact smaller kits all “We had a fabulous response to proved very popular, with interest across the whole range, and the new acrylic and glass beads retailers were keen to get them onto their shelves.” we brought to the show – our customers couldn’t get enough of them. The large acrylic roses Geoff Ellis, proved to be very popular along Beads Unlimited with the animal print beads and +44 (0)1273 740 774 the beautiful high shine, lustrous www.beadsunlimited.co.uk glass beads. Available in lots of bright colours and softer, neutral tones, these larger sized beads are set to make heads turn! We “The Craft Hobby + Stitch are introducing a range of acrylic and glass beads to our wholesale International exhibition is the range, so watch out for the bead supplement to the catalogue we place for the craft industry to have just launched. We were also pleased at the response to our get together, press the fl esh, and new Bead Fairy range – it just gets better and better!” see and be seen. There is nothing quite like the atmosphere – leads are generated, business done and orders made, but it has none of the pressure of other trade fairs. Everyone is more than friendly, customers pay their bills on time, and few orders are left as neglected ideas gathering dust on a pro-forma. If it wasn’t for the long hours away from home, and the constraints of a suit and tie, it would come very close to being a genuine pleasure.”

craftfocus 27 show review

Moosa Loonat, London Trimmings +44 (0)20 7791 9766 www.londontrims.co.uk

“We at London Trimmings didn’t know what to expect from our fi rst exhibition at Craft Hobby + Stitch International this year. We have been to a few shows to have a look around and see what’s happening in the world of the haberdashery and craft trade, and of course to meet all our suppliers, but we didn’t expect the response that we had from customers on our fi rst exhibition. We thought that we should spread the company name and become more recognised throughout the industry. Alison McNicol, Stitchclub Kits The feedback was great, we enjoyed every minute of the show!” +44 (0)845 838 7211 www.stitchclub.co.uk Kathleen Cooper, La Fourmi “We were showcasing three new designs in our popular kids Learn To Sew kit range – Cute Cupcakes, Tiny Teddy and Polka +32 2687 7629 Dot Love Hearts. I knew that these new designs were very strong, www.cordslafourmi.com but even I was surprised at the massive response! Tons of craft and non-sewing shops were placing orders – it seems everyone “We particularly enjoyed this wants to get into sewing right now and kits are a great way to year’s show, and appreciated tap into that market. We completely sold out on our March the genuine creative fl air and production run and are busy taking orders for April and May.” interest that we found there. Gone were the men in suits who were looking for easy Sarah Scott, Stitchtastic money – here were the true +44 (0)114 235 3958 crafters, those devoted to www.stitchtastic.com their businesses; people who really believe in what they “We had another successful are doing. The show offered year at Craft Hobby + Stitch a huge number of new ideas International. Retailers seemed and products, and opened very open to new product ranges many doors to simple ways of and keen to try something a bit expressing one’s creativity. different. We had a lot of interest We displayed some slightly from retailers currently stocking ‘out-there’ jewellery, including needlework products, and also our new and exclusive from a number of more general jewellery silk scarves, which craft stores looking to expand their range. Needlework is certainly were well received by visitors. Our beautiful new transparent clear on the up at the moment – many stockists told us that their three-dimensional stickers, textile adhesive ribbons, and découpage customers are looking for a craft that produces long-lasting pieces sheets – which can be applied easily on the wood and papier to display and treasure, and there’s nothing better for this than cross maché products – were all well received too.” stitch. Our colourful and exclusive designs provide the hook that many people need to try stitching for the fi rst time.”

28 craftfocus

competition competition

WIN! For further information visit the website http://retail.creativityinternational.co.uk/ and log in with the user name creativity £500 worth and password retailer – all in lower case. of Numberjacks craft For your chance to win £500 worth of Numberjacks kits from Creativity craft kits simply answer the following question online at International www.craftfocus.com. Question: How many different Creativity International tells us it is fast available. The Numberjacks are ten small superhero numbers from nought to nine who Numberjacks craft kits can you becoming a leading name in licensed children’s buy from Creativity International? craft kits and toys. solve real problems. Broadcast regularly on They make cracking kits featuring the best CBeebies and BBC2 the series is tied into the The closing date for entries is 4th May 2010. children’s entertainment characters from teaching curriculum. Mister Men to Mister Maker! At an RRP £4.99 So while the kids really love doing the each, they make perfect gift and toy lines. Paint by Numberjacks, playing with the Stick Terms and Conditions 1. The competition is not open to employees of The company’s full list of licences features hit Puppets and creating the other kits, parents Creativity International or KD Media Publishing Ltd favourites like Mister Maker, Mr Men and Little know that they are learning stuff too. (or their immediate families). Miss, Postman Pat, Numberjacks, Pingu, Bob There are also Make Your Own 2. The competition closing date is subject to change without prior notice. the Builder, Thomas the Tank Engine, Fireman Numberjacks Mobile, Make a Number 5 Bag, 3. The winner will be notiﬁ ed in writing. Sam and Art Attack. Card Making, Reward Charts, Tell the Time and 4. The editor’s decision is ﬁ nal. No correspondence All the kits that Creativity International the Number 3 Tambourine. will be entered into. 5. The prize is not transferable and has no makes are made to be fun, bright and Everything is included in the pack enabling monetary value. collectable. Most importantly, the kids children to make their very own Number 3 6. If an advertised prize is not available, we reserve love them. Creativity International is also keen Tambourine. Encouraging children to learn the right to offer an alternative prize of equal or greater value. to make sure that each kit is linked to the basic sewing skills and working with different 7. No purchase necessary, and there is no charge to national curriculum. textures makes this a really fun project. Once enter via the website at www.craftfocus.com. The Numberjacks range is one of the completed, the kit also helps children learn 8. Entrants must be a member of the trade, and over the age of 18. current best sellers with eight different kits about rhythm and music. C

craftfocus 31 building a nest egg Steve Barton of Krasnaya Nesting Dolls tells us just how important his family were when he decided to take the plunge and start up a crafting business with wife Katrina

added ‘I can’t paint’. Th e traditional kits also for all the kits and ranges was ours, and all have simple pencil outlines which enable designs and packaging are designed and them to achieve a good end result without produced by us. having to be an artist. It’s almost like a three- dimensional colouring book. It's great that our What are your most successful products, and fun and interesting home project developed why do you think this is? into a business! Th e most successful products are Painta Pets and Traditional kits. Th is is because How has the company’s business offering the designs are simple and striking – people evolved since this time? particularly love Percy the Penguin – and they Th e business has evolved from selling are suitable for all ages of children and adults. decorated dolls to producing fi ve designs It is the kits’ good quality and achievability of Painta Pets plus two traditional kits. We that attracts people, plus the fact they are also added 11 more Painta Pets designs due diff erent to anything else on the market – Who founded Krasnaya Nesting Dolls, and to customer demand, along with a range of craft ers are always on the lookout for new what prompted them to do so? nesting blanks and transfer kits. Th e idea things to try. Th e idea came from my wife Katrina’s lifelong love of Russian dolls and, following a trip to Russia, Krasnaya Nesting Dolls was started in 2004, originally selling decorated dolls. In 2008 we saw a gap in the craft market and developed our Painta Pets range of Paint Your Own nesting animal kits as well as traditional kits. Russian dolls appeal to all, and our kits cater for all ages and skill levels. Th ey require only two colours so children don’t get bored waiting for paint to dry, as well as using large areas of fl at colour to good eff ect in order to achieve a great result. Th e idea of Painta Pets came from painting dolls with our own children and their cousins, and it became clear they found it easier to paint if they had a design and outline to follow. Friends also expressed an interest in painting a more traditional doll, but regularly

32 craftfocus proﬁ le

What do you think will be the next big thing received reiterates that the craft er recognises in crafting? and demands good quality products, and is We hope it will be Paint Your Own Russian willing to spend a little more to get something Dolls! Th e image of a Russian doll is special – smaller hobby and craft outlets can becoming more and more popular and off er this. Larger high street outlets diversify appeared extensively on TV and on the high to survive and can supply what consumers street last winter. want at a lower price, but they do not always off er the quality the craft er demands. What do you think about the current state of the market? What steps have you been taking to weather Th e current economic climate is not an the storm? ideal time to launch a new product, but the We are very aware of how we are spending response and sales we have experienced would money to develop the business and soon suggest that the craft market is very much learned you must keep things in perspective alive and kicking – it seems to be one of the – you can easily be drawn into unnecessary sectors to be hit least. Th e feedback we have costs. We are now prioritising focusing on a quality product as well as a good service, listening to feedback, whilst introducing new products and fresh ideas in order to keep the customer interested.

How would you like the company to develop over the next few years? Our plan over the next few years is to build on our customer base – not only in this country but in Europe too. We also want to be aware of trends and react to them. We have already increased our product range, but it is important not to stagnate, and our new designs and ideas must be as fresh and exciting as the fi rst.C

Further information To ﬁ nd out more about Krasnaya Nesting Dolls please call +44 (0)1246 208 482 or visit the website at www.krasnaya.co.uk.

craftfocus 33 x marks the spot Coats Crafts Inspire your customers with this colourful +44 (0)1484 681 881 array of cross stitch products www.coatscrafts.co.uk The Anchor spring/summer 2010 kit and canvas collection has now been launched. With over 75 new designs, featuring usual favourites such as landscapes, florals, samplers and loveable characters in a variety of techniques, there are kits and canvases for stitchers of all abilities. As well as a design featuring three young ballet dancers, crafters can choose from a friendly tabby cat in a garden, a number of mini portrait kits of dogs, and Birds In A Row, which includes eight different varieties of birds in one project.

Heritage Crafts +44 (0)1889 575 256 www.hcrafts.com Harbour Lights is one of four new additions to the company’s Silhouettes range, which has been one of its most popular to date. We’re told the new designs have been highly anticipated by Heritage Crafts customers – this particular piece shows moored boats bobbing gently in the harbour which is illuminated by the morning sun. It is available as a kit on either 14 HPI Aida or 27 HPI evenweave. The design size is 12.5cm x 12.5cm, and the RRP is around £13.50.

34 craftfocus crosscross stitch stitch

Bothy Threads +44 (0)1638 665 149 www.bothythreads.com Cross stitch specialist Bothy Threads has a new range to add sparkle to the crafter’s needlecraft selection. The Forces of Fantasy designs feature fire, air, earth and water dragons, use full cross stitch, back stitch and French knots, and are taken from a series called Whisper On Wings by Berni Parker. The pastel colours are highlighted by sparkly threads, sequins and beads. Organdy ribbons are tied around the fairies’ waists and the piece also includes hand-painted satin butterflies. The RRP is £27.49.

DMC +44 (0)116 275 4000 www.dmccreative.co.uk A comprehensive range of stitching supplies is offered in DMC’s new 2010 catalogue including DMC threads, exclusive kits, cross stitch fabrics, accessories and more. A particular highlight to the catalogue is the introduction of the Best of British designers, one of which is Emma Thomson. We’re told her delightful character Lili Loves is a rag doll who lives with her friends in a kitchen dresser. As well as cross stitch kits featuring favourite Disney characters, and custom-built display units for the threads and mini kits, DMC is offering a wide range of options to get your customers started.

Classic Embroidery +44 (0)1529 461 056 www.classicemb.co.uk Heather Anne Designs, manufactured and distributed by Classic Embroidery, has released a new design in its floral series. The Thistle has been produced with a definite eye on customers north of the border, after a suggestion from a shop owner at one of the trade shows. These cross stitch kits are perfect introductory pieces, using whole crosses only – no fractions – and with a little backstitch used in the Poppies and the new Thistle. The introduction of these designs will be at Needlework Trade Group shows throughout the year.

craftfocus 35 The Nutmeg Company +44 (0)20 8462 1149 www.3dcrossstitch.co.uk Cross stitch has been taken to another level at The Nutmeg Company with three-dimensional projects which employ all the regular stitching skills – but also enter a new dimension, turning the crafter’s work into something useful and decorative. The company’s kits include clear stitching charts, and instructions for making the work into a three-dimensional piece such as a keepsake box or vase, a miniature house or a Christmas decoration. Designs are worked either on cross stitch fabric, or on 14 HPI perforated paper, which is ideal for greetings cards.

Stitchtastic +44 (0)114 235 3958 www.stitchtastic.com As the 2010 Formula One season begins, Stitchtastic is looking forward to showing off its range of motor racing designs. Top of the popularity list is the caricature design of Lewis Hamilton’s McLaren car. Other, more generic racing car designs are also available, along with a number of other caricatures, including Valentino Rossi on his championship- winning racing motorbike. The company tells us that the racing designs adhere to its principle of stitching something a bit different, while at the same time colourful and striking – and they really stand out on display.

SpangleJangle +44 (0)2920 521 122 www.spanglejangle.com Love spoons were originally carved by young men as a token of their affection for a young lady, and all across Europe examples can be found going back to the 15th century from. Today, as well as being a loving gift of affection, love spoons are given for many special occasions including weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, christenings and house warmings. The different symbols and motifs used have different significance – hearts mean love, spirals refer to togetherness, and bells relate to weddings or anniversaries. SpangleJangle has created the Love Spoon Cross Stitch Kit, which allows crafters to stitch their own gift of affection. The 26cm x 10cm kit also comes with chart, instructions, 14 HPI Aida, needle, sorted threads, and a full alphabet and number range in order to personalise the design. The RRP is £9.25. C

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the best of British As Brigantia Needlework continues to prosper and grow, Kath Jackson tells us what the firm offers that others may not...

About 70 years ago, Kath Jackson’s father- “Customers can approach us with a in-law founded his haberdashery shop, picture of their pet or family member, and Jacksons of Hebden Bridge, which began we’ll produce a tapestry kit for them,” Kath producing rug kits made from ‘thrums’ – cut continues. “We provide a brilliant service offs from carpet mills – as a sideline. Over from start to finish – it only takes three to the years, the rug making kits have become four weeks to send out a final bespoke kit, so popular, they’re now the main earner for which is a service they wouldn’t get in large business, which trades under the name of department stores – and the kits are always Brigantia Needlework. But how exactly did completely personal to the customer.” it get to this stage? Much of Brigantia Needlework’s new “In terms of the company’s size, there business is received through referrals and was never any huge growth,” explains Kath. word of mouth, and at the recent Craft “It was always a family business, but we Hobby + Stitch International show, Kath expanded gradually just to keep up with the found that a lot of the collection would needs of customers. A Women’s Institute appeal to younger crafters. This may largely member once approached my father-in-law be down to the launch of their ‘best of asking for a particular kit to be produced, British’ range which showcases a host of and the demand evolved from there.” vibrant patriotic designs, awash with Union After a 25- to 30-year lull in crafts, Kath Jacks and other truly British images. tells us the industry has gone full circle It seems the firm has really weathered and tapestry has become really popular the storm of late – in fact, business has again, and what seems to have set Brigantia been booming over the past few years, Needlework apart from the rest is its and Brigantia Needlework is on the up. bespoke tapestry work. “Apart from the postal strike we’ve not been affected and didn'’t really feel the “We’re even going to come up with a recession,” says Kath. “Our bespoke work is design of Barack Obama’s dog, which we going from strength to strength, and over want to send to him!” adds Kath. the six years we’ve been doing craft shows, It looks like it’s all going swimmingly for the industry has realised we’re in it for the Brigantia Needlework right now, so we wait long haul. We’ve recently taken on an extra with bated breath to find out exactly what designer to keep up with demand, and have the company will be coming up with next. C just moved into a new premises, which means we have room to grow.” Further information Looking forward, the company is aiming To find out more on Brigantia Needlework, to venture into Europe and the States, and call +44 (0)1422 881 100, fax it already sells successfully to Australia. It +44 (0)1422 884 044, email has also been asked to design a range of [email protected] tapestry kits for Wales, Ireland and Scotland, or visit the website at using appropriate flags and emblems. www.brigantianeedlework.com.

craftfocus 39

special feature

house of cards We speak to some leading suppliers about the card making market and future trends

Jayne Bentley, Colour My World Which are your best-selling card making stamp pads were +44 (0)1262 601 770 products, and why do you think this is? considered www.colourmyworld.co.uk Card makers are now more savvy – they sophisticated. Our expect a greater variety of quality products growing range of products How has the market for which off er value for money. We understand refl ects this and we are about to card making altered over this at Colour My World and have therefore introduce digital downloads. I think that the past few years? found that our products are well received. the biggest changes over the past few years I have been in the UK craft Our templates are multi-purpose and can be have been brought about by the improvement industry for ten years and put onto a card front, découpaged, used on in, and access to, technology. Computers and card making has certainly a scrapbook page, or used for home décor electronic gadgets now play a big role in craft s. evolved over this time. including walls, cushions and bedding. Many When I fi rst started out of the albums and cards are packaged in an Which are your best-selling card making many cards were pretty envelope template, meaning the consumer has products, and why do you think this is? standard. Over the years the means to send or store the cards. Our best-selling products are undoubtedly manufacturers have cottoned on to the ribbons. Th ey add a three-dimensional quality fact that the consumer wants more from a What card making trends would you predict to cards and come in a huge range of colours product, so cards are now available in all for the coming months? that can be chosen to complement a card’s sorts of shapes, sizes, colours and fi nishes. I think that cards are going to be more theme. We have seen a tremendous growth in As scrapbooking has gained popularity, ‘touchy-feely’ and in lots of diff erent textures the ribbon sector and are constantly updating card makers have latched onto its wealth of and fabrics – there is a defi nite crossover and adding to our range. People react to fabulous products and tools meaning other between fabrics and paper craft s. I also see a ribbons like children in a sweet shop. Th e trends keep evolving. Card makers love to lot of craft ers stamping onto fabrics, making colour and variety has them mesmerised, create designs that require a specifi c technique their own designs, and bringing what they and they want to buy as many as possible. such as origami and découpage. might do on cards into home décor. Another area showing the largest growth is our selections of paper fl owers, which make a Yvonne Randall, Craft Fairy really big impact on a card. +44 (0)1656 653 796 www.craftfairy.co.uk What card making trends would you predict for the coming months? How has the market for card making altered I think that the up and coming trend in card over the past few years? making will be digital stamping. Several of Th e main the big stamp companies are already bringing development in their stamps out in this format, and when we the card making at Craft Fairy decided to produce our own market has been the range of stamps, we did so knowing that they availability of fantastic would be backed up by a digital range. Digital new materials. I images can be delivered quickly via email and remember when I the customer can resize them as they wish. fi rst started to craft , More and more people are computer savvy, so rubber stamps and these images are perfect for them. Colour My World craftfocus 41 house of cards

Crafter’s Companion Sara Davies, Crafter’s Companion +44 (0)1388 663 251 www.crafterscompanion.co.uk

How has the market for card making altered over the past few years? Th ere has been a strong return to rubber stamping in recent years. Th e Rock-a-Blocks have opened the world of stamping to those who previously found it too diffi cult. Th is has, in turn, led to an increase in the number and types of stamps available, as well as the designs craft ers can now use. Over the past few years there has also been a surge in the popularity of digital What card making trends would you predict at the consumers’ fi ngertips. An array of craft ing. With the ability to print out their for the coming months? design-led products in fast changing on- own backing papers, customers are able In the coming months, we predict that one of trend colours, complemented by additives to save money while printing out exactly the growing trends will be for iconic images and embellishments in a myriad of styles, what they want. Th ere are now a number and characters from our childhoods, for shapes, sizes and options, gives craft ers the of licensed character CDs, for example the example Beatrix Potter. Card makers always opportunity to develop their creativity and Flower Fairies, Popcorn the Bear and Beatrix love cute images, so Popcorn the Bear will take it to new and exciting levels. Potter, so craft ers can make cards with their continue to be very popular too. Th e greetings market has had a signifi cant favourite characters. bearing on the development of the UK craft Debbie Wigglesworth, industry as consumers have been exposed Which are your best-selling card making Inspire Me Papers to these changes, and no doubt inspired and products, and why do you think this is? +44 (0)845 120 0155 heavily infl uenced by them. One of the biggest selling tools in the industry www.inspiremepapers.co.uk in recent years has been the Ultimate Craft er’s Which are your best-selling card products Companion Pro. Th is all-in-one card making How has the craft and why do you think this is? workstation incorporates card, box and market altered over When it comes to shape, square cards are envelope making to create envelo-box making, the past few years? most popular – this trend has been heavily allowing craft ers to create a more dimensional Without doubt infl uenced by the the best-selling lines. Th e envelope for embellished or découpage cards. over the past few Cloudy Grey shade is currently selling very Th ere are also embossing lines and pop-out years, there has well, which is a trend which we predicted shapes as well as an integrated paper trimmer been an explosion some 12 months ago. Our wedding options and a bow maker. Other products that have of new possibilities continue to sell well, also - there is a sold incredibly well include the Rock-a-Blocks readily available continued interest in brides making their own and our vast range of digital craft ing CDs. wedding stationery.

42 craftfocus house of cards

What card making trends would you predict growth – it’s remained steadily popular over for the coming months? the past few years. But I do think the focus It is going to be pleasurable to watch the and way in which people want to make cards added awareness and interest in handcraft ed has changed. Th e digital aspect is becoming cards featuring three-dimensional design. really popular now – CDs which off er a large We are about to launch our new Make Your choice of prints, patterns and backgrounds are Own Fairies and Make Your Own Flower a big part of it. kits, stand-alone products which can be used to decorate the home and in integral card Which are your best-selling card making design. Multifunctional three-dimensional products, and why do you think this is? designs with a lifestyle twist is our Inspire Me Flower Soft ® is by far our best-selling range at making, which could partly be due to the prediction – watch this space. the moment. It’s a pot of coloured sprinkles that allows you to create text, designs and recession – people have decided that making miniature fl oral embellishments, adding cards themselves may save money, plus there Inspire Me Papers another dimension to a card. It’s not only is a lot more satisfaction in giving someone popular with our designs but others too, so is a card that you’ve made – and it means a lot now a staple product for card makers. more to the recipient.

What card making trends would you predict Which are your best-selling card making for the coming months? products, and why do you think this is? I think it’s a two-sided coin. Th ere is One of the best-selling products is the Martini continued growth in the popularity of digital Nikki stamp. Th ere are lots of cute girl stamps card making, as expected. However there has out there, but they appeal to teens and those also been a real resurgence in stamping. A in their twenties – this stamp appeals to all number of companies have picked up on this ages up to ladies in their sixties who are young trend and begun to off er complementary CDs at heart. Shopping Nikki and Wine Nikki also with stamping products, meaning the two appeal to lots of women. In the Ruby Fairies support each other. range, the Day Off stamp has proved a best- seller – it depicts Ruby sitting at her mirror Kerry O’Leary, Ladybug Crafts Ink with her wings hung up on a coat stand. I +44 (0)141 644 5399 think the reason why these are all popular is www.ladybugcraftsink.blogspot.com because people can identify with them. Susan Balfour, Katy Sue Designs +44 (0)1914 274 571 How has the What card making trends would you predict www.katysuedesigns.com market for card for the coming months? making altered over Buttons are big – they have been for a while How has the the past few years? – and so are ribbon, glitter and crystals, and market for card From what I have I think they always will be. It may mean the making altered over seen, scrapbooking postage for your card is more costly, but it the past few years? was originally more seems really important to people that their I don’t think it has popular but there cards have texture. Eventually I’d like to off er altered too much has recently been a this sort of item to match my cards, but for in terms of rapid resurgence in card now I’m busy enough with the cling stamps!

44 craftfocus special feature

most wanted

Colour My World +44 (0)1262 601 770 www.colourmyworld.co.uk Th e new Create Your Card range comprises templates which come on an A4 sheet, so there is oft en plenty of room to embellish it however the craft er wants. Th e elegant rounded, crimped and oval templates have been designed to make stunning gatefold cards and can be mixed and matched for a diff erent eff ect. Notches on the cards also mean that shapes and sizes can be varied – box cards can be made, and multiple cards can be wrapped around each other for another dimension. Th ere are designs suitable for all occasions, but the wedding cards are particularly striking. Th e templates are washable, durable and acid free, which means they take well to stamps.

Craft Fairy +44 (0)1656 653 796 www.craftfairy.co.uk A set of four fairy character rubber stamp sheets have been launched by Craft Fairy, each with its own personality. Th ere is a cooking fairy complete with cakes, sporty fairy is always on the move, party fairy is ready with her champagne, while gardening fairy can be found weaving magic in the garden. Each set of stamps contains sentiments and extra stamps to help set a magical scene. Customers will get a complete package with each sheet. Th e RRP of a set is £10.

Crafter’s Companion +44 (0)1388 663 251 www.crafterscompanion.co.uk Frederick Warne & Co, owner and guardian of the Beatrix Potter property and original publisher of Beatrix Potter’s famous little white books, invited Craft er’s Companion to collaborate with them. Th ey have worked together to develop an exciting range of paper craft ing lines, following on from the well-received launch of the Flower Fairies last year. Th e fi rst three iconic characters to be launched in both CD and rubber stamp format are Peter Rabbit, Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle and Tom Kitten. Th ey have been designed to appeal to all, and the company hope the range will open the door to a new generation of craft ers.

craftfocus 45 most wanted

Inspire Me Papers +44 (0)845 120 0155 www.inspiremepapers.co.uk A new Make Your own Fairy kit has been launched following on from the fi rm’s successful Make Your Own Cupcake Box range. Th ese delightful fairy folk come in a self-contained pack including easy step- by-step instructions and paper templates, as well as enough paper and card to make eight fairies. Th ey are ideal as decorations for cards, boxes, tables, as well as home decor items such as mobiles, bunting and garlands. Th e RRP is £7.99 per pack.

Katy Sue +44 (0)1914 274 571 www.ﬂ ower-soft.com Flower Soft ® is launching its innovative Ultra Fine range in eight exciting new colourways – Raspberry Fizz, Citrus Crush, Sand, Koala Grey, Sage, Black, Strawberry and Toff ee. Th e new Flower Soft ® Ultra Fine gives craft ers the ability to use a 3D-eff ect product on more detailed, fi ner designs, allowing them to be even more creative in how and when they use the eff ect. Each 20ml pot has an RRP of £2.99.

Ladybug Crafts Ink +44 (0)141 644 5399 www.ladybugcraftsink.blogspot.com Th e cling stamps off ered by Ladybug Craft s Ink are available in two lines – Nikki & Friends and Ruby Fairies – all of which feature images that can be Katy Sue identifi ed with by +44 (0)1914 274 571 craft ers and their www.ﬂ ower-soft.com loved ones. Th e Th e new range of Card Toppers™ has been launched to complement clear stamps can be the company’s groundbreaking Ultra Fine range of colours. Designed attached to an acrylic by Rikey, the Recipes collection works with Ultra Fine to enhance block and combined the detail on these new and intricate designs. Card Toppers™ are with the sentiments range, ideal for card making and scrapbooking and can be used with Flower off ering words to match the images. When the stamps are applied to Soft ® glue and a sprinkle of Flower Soft ® Ultra Fine for a unique the cardstock, they can be coloured with a medium of the consumer’s dimensional eff ect. Th e range features four themes, each containing choice. Th e stamps have an RRP of £6.50. Th ere are 24 stamps in the eight Card Toppers™. Each pack has an RRP of £2.99. C Nikki & Friends range and eight within Ruby Fairies.

46 craftfocus An exciting new British company with a fabulous brand new range of cling stamps, manufactured in the UK to a very high standard. New images coming soon Knitting enthusiast Sue Morgan tells us how her Bristol-based the knitty gritty business Get Knitted has more than weathered the ﬁnancial storm

When did you open the shop? settees, and space to move around. Many The shop opened in January 2007, following customers stay for the day, so I’m happy with the online store, which was based in a the atmosphere I’ve created. warehouse and had been going for several years. We were originally producing decorative How important is your location and what is glassware and supplying it to various shops. But your main customer base? when the designs began being copied in China, I was very lucky to find a large premises that selling for a fraction of the price, we realised would be perfect for my needs. Not being in we couldn’t compete. This then prompted the central Bristol avoids the massive rents, but beginning of Get Knitted – knitting and general the shop is still easy to find, and on all major crafts were always a hobby or mine, so it was transport routes. The shop’s customers are an obvious choice. mainly from Bristol and the surrounding areas, but I have found that people will travel a long Was it your first retail venture? way to visit us. We keep a visitor book which No. I had a small gift shop many, many years has been a great way to see how far people ago, and another gift shop later with my then have travelled. Any one page will always have partner. I started decorating glass for the shop, several overseas visitors. which then grew and grew to supplying other shops around the world. What are the latest craft trends you’ve noticed? Are you an avid knitter yourself, and how did There seems to have been an upward trend your interest begin? in all things crafty over the last year. With I love knitting and haven’t really stopped since the country being in recession many people I learnt at the age of six as a Brownie. My gran cut back on holidays and going out, but find and mum were knitters so it was in the family. themselves at home more to dabble in their It wasn’t just knitting though – I’ve always been favourite hobby. many closed. Now people are knitting for into all sorts of crafts such as stained glass and Lately customers are going for finer, lace pleasure, knowing it’s not always the cheap sewing. Having a knitting and craft shop hasn’t weight yarns for things like shawls. This is option, but they are enjoying it all the same. made me sick of yarn though – it can even because the new generation of knitters who offer me inspiration, and I still like to knit in my started a couple of years ago are now moving What are your views on the current state of spare time. on and wanting more challenging projects. But the market? these finer yarns aren’t actually as easy to find The craft market seems buoyant and doesn’t What was your personal brief when first as they’re not produced by larger companies – seem to have been affected given the current starting out in terms of product lines, aims so we usually approach the specialist dyers. economic climate. In fact, I actually think the and objectives? Another interesting point is how the reason recession may have had a positive effect, I had the established website as a guide, which for knitting has changed. Years ago, people particularly combined with the resurgence was really useful. I wanted to provide quality knitted because it was cheaper to produce in knitting. People are spending more time at options using both nationally recognized something themselves rather than buy from a home and so they feel they want to fill their suppliers, individual dyers and products shop. Then the mass producers began offering time with something – although a knitting sourced from overseas. My choice of shop knitted products for less. As a result, knitting hobby isn’t cheap, it’s often more cost-effective had to allow for plenty of furniture, such as retailers and suppliers couldn’t compete and than a night in the pub!

48 craftfocus retailer interview retailer interview

How and where do you source new – that’s my perfect yardstick. We all work a lady who called up with an issue. We’d got products? together to come up with new ideas. I already her order wrong, but but put it right straight From anywhere! Shows, customers, online, knew some of my staff before the shop away and the customer actually called the recommendations... I’m open to anything. There opened, and some were friends of friends, but next day to thank us! It just goes to show how really is no main way to find out about new I advertised for others. I have a good mix of important this sort of service is. products. Because there are loads of forums people and we work well as a team. online, it’s quite easy to find information which How important is your online presence? isn’t necessarily about major manufacturers. How do you ensure that you can compete Very important. When the shop first started Individual, smaller companies will dye yarns just with the larger craft multiples? it brought in most of our business, but now for us, so it’s great to know about them. Individualism. We offer such a huge choice Get Knitted is more established, it’s about a Since I’ve had the shop, we’ve been able to that often the multiples in Bristol will send 60:40 split – with online sales still bringing in fill in some gaps in stock because customers customers to us. Perfect! Customers favour us the most business. There is a huge overlap will come in asking for products which we may because of the choice we offer. I’d also like to with things that are popular both online and not have. You don’t get this sort of feedback think that the shop provides a welcoming and in store, but some things do sell online and online, as potential customers will just go personal experience for those who visit. We not in the shop, and vice versa – they cater for elsewhere if we don’t have the product they also offer tea and coffee – this comes in handy different needs. want, and we’ll be none the wiser. Interaction with the husbands who often bring their wives with our shop customers is very important to Get Knitted. It means they can sit and read What are your plans for the future? when deciding on new products. the paper instead of walking round the store! I want to continue bringing in new yarns and needles to tempt customers, and to continue What are your best selling lines? Do you offer a workshop programme, and supporting UK dyers. To be honest I don’t want The KnitPro range of needles is a very strong how important is it to your business? to open more stores. I would like to stay with seller, while Rowan and Sirdar are always solid We usually offer workshops about every other what I have and expand naturally over time. lines in the shop. Both these companies have week, and whilst not essential to business When business runs smoothly, which it usually been around for a long time, and they spend success, they prove to be an excellent way of does, it means my life is well balanced. C a lot more in PR and advertising than many making the shop a social hub. The workshops others. As a result smaller dyers can’t compete, we provide cover anything and everything Further information and by default, it means Rowan and Sirdar are – from learning to knit, experienced classes, To find out more about Get Knitted, call more popular. They’re great, but there is so finishing, dying and spinning – and they are all +44 (0)117 300 5211 or visit the website at much more out there – even though we have really well received. www.getknitted.com. a large shop, we’re still spoilt for choice. Describe the style and presentation of your Which shows do you attend? shop – how important is visual merchandising When I can, I go to Craft Hobby + Stitch to you? International in Birmingham and Handarbeit Get Knitted is open plan and full of colour, & Hobby in Germany. Hopefully I will get to texture and inspiration. We let the yarn the US shows soon. It’s mostly a time issue provide the colour in the shop – the décor really, and I haven’t been to any this year. When otherwise is quite simple. Too much colour can I do go, although it’s great to speak to the be overwhelming. people I already know, the main objective is to meet new people. It’s always a worthwhile What steps do you take to ensure the experience to be at a show. highest standards of customer service? Customer service is very important to us and What yardstick do you use for measuring the we pride ourselves in the reputation we have. potential of a new product? No company can be perfect, but when it goes I have nine members of staff who are all wrong it’s how you handle it that matters. keen knitters, and their opinions really matter What proved this point to us a while ago was

craftfocus 49 the knitting circle Here at Craft Focus HQ, we’re partial to a spot of knitting, so we decided to try out some yarn and tell you about our favourites – a great way of getting a customer perspective, and lots of fun to boot...

BRIGANTIA ARAN I had great fun knitting +44 (0)1422 881 100 some little fl owers with www.brigantianeedlework.com , , this delightful yarn, and I also used it as part of Brigantia Aran Name: 100% a stripey scarf which – I Composition: confess – is far from pure wool 100g fi nished, but looking Weight: 160m pretty nonetheless. The Length: 5mm EMMA ZÜCKER Needle size: pure wool yarn is strong, durable and easy to knit with – the fi bres don’t get too fuzzy, and there isn’t too much friction on the needles. I think a hat pattern would suit this yarn perfectly, especially in the softly coloured and pretty Pearl Silver shade I was working with. EZ,,

King Cole Name: KING COLE Mirage DK +44 (0)1535 650 230 50% wool, www.kingcole.co.uk Composition: 50% premium 100g acrylic The Mirage range includes some really appealing colour Weight: 312m combinations – the one I tested was dark turquoise, purple and Length: , , 4mm gold, which began to look fab once a section had been knitted. Needle size: The wool and acrylic combination is a great compromise for those wishing to produce a large item on a limited budget, but with good quality yarn. A ﬂ uffy cardigan would work perfectly with this yarn, and the EZ attractive colour range should be a real draw to consumers. ,, 50 craftfocus tried & tested

ARTESANO ROWAN +44 (0)118 950 3350 +44 (0)1484 681 881 www.artesano.co.uk www.knitrowan.com Name: Rowan Purelife Revive Despite the I’m not usually a fan of skeins, , signifi, cant amount of Composition: 36% recycled because I’ve not got a ball winder, silk, 36% recycled cotton, , , silk in this yarn, I found 28% recycled viscose but this beautiful soft yarn was it a little bit scratchy to Weight: 50g defi nitely worth the hour and a half I Length: 125m knit with – although the spent hand-winding it into a ball. You Needle size: 4mm REBECCA twists of cotton, silk and viscose WINWARD do need to pay attention, as it’s easy do make for a lovely texture, with their to split with a needle, but knitting varying colours and levels of sheen. It doesn’t with such a silky fi bre makes this really have much elasticity, so can be a touch hard worthwhile! The slightly glossy fi nish, Manos del Uruguay on the fi ngers, however, I adore the recycled Name: coupled with the beautiful colour Silk Blend DK nature of this product, and the lovely range of 30% silk, 70% variation, makes this yarn a winner speckled colours. After knitting a swatch to check Composition: – I knitted a moss stitch beret, but it Merino extrafi100g ne wool out this new yarn, I opted for a new take on the Weight: would also be gorgeous for a cosy 270m old-fashioned string shopper, since the green Length: and luxurious sweater, cardigan or 3.5mm – 4mm credentials of the fi bres seemed perfect for such Needle size: wrap. RW ,, an eco-conscious item. RW VIRIDIAN ,, +44 (0)117 300 5244 www.viridianyarn.com Name: Organics Soie Composition: 100% silk As a fairly new member of the knitting population, this Weight: 50g , was, my fi rst foray into working in the round – and I Length: 115m went wrong immediately. The result was a tangled mess Needle size: 3.5mm that only a pair of scissors could sort out, and I wrongly assumed that this would mean an end to the stripey pattern that the yarn was meant to produce. I started again, and as I got the hang of working with four needles, the yarn soon started to build up into a really pretty – and even – design. The wool was very easy to work and I now have my fi rst pair of home-knit socks. A thoroughly enjoyable project and one I BERGÉRE DE FRANCE EMMA CANT will be repeating. +33 329 797 628 EC www.bergeredefrance.com ,, Splitting the strand as I cast on may not have given Fortissima Socka the best fi rst impression of this wool, but I soon Name: , , Modern Art realised that it was the workman who was to blame 4 ply sock yarn rather than the tools. This is an absolutely gorgeous 60% superwash yarn, which knits up surprisingly easily and quickly, Composition: 100g new wool,Weight: 40% Polypropylene even for someone like me who prefers a chunky 390m Length: wool. It has a lovely sheen to it, and that combined 2.5mm – 3mm with the delicate cable stitch I used has produced a Needle size: pretty purse ideal for summer nights out. EC

,, giftfocus 51 TRADE-WIRES.CO.UK

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Marathon Machine Embroidery Thread and much more Please give us a call we are always happy to help show review

exceeding all expectations

The CHA 2010 Winter Convention and Trade Show was a roaring of the industry and the CHA Winter Show.” “It’s been an amazing trade show for us. success, by all accounts. We bring you the lowdown on the event, We completely exceeded our sales goals. and the exhibitors show us some products featured there It’s been the primary vehicle for us to launch our new product to the craft and A sign that the craft economy is recovering 6,400 attendees at the 2009 Winter Show hobby industry,” explains first-time Winter was apparent at January’s Craft & Hobby – and the Show brought in over 100 new Show exhibitor Lisa Waddington, VP Sales and Association (CHA) 2010 Winter Convention exhibitors this year. Marketing at Annabelle Noel Designs. “We’re and Trade Show and the Craft SuperShow. The number of retail buyers attending the absolutely thrilled, and we’re really looking Despite the somewhat miserable weather, 2010 Winter Show also increased slightly forward to the next show.” attendance was up 5% and a huge number of over last year. Exhibiting space at the Anaheim “In four years of exhibiting, this has by new exhibitors took part. Convention Center totalled 227,000 sq ft for far been our best Show,” adds returning Nearly 14,000 industry professionals and both the Trade Show and the Craft SuperShow scrapbook exhibitor and owner of Canvas craft and hobby enthusiasts gathered for the consumer event. Home Basics at Christine Meier. “Every single CHA 2010 Winter Convention and Trade “The CHA Winter Show continues to buyer we’ve worked with opened new doors Show, and inaugural Craft SuperShow, at the perform well even in a challenging economy,” for us, and it’s been a very, very good show for Anaheim Convention Center in California this says Steve Berger, President and CEO of us in that respect.” January. the CHA. “The fact that we had nearly a Despite rains, a tornado watch, flooding and The CHA 2010 Winter Show featured more 5% increase in attendees and over 100 new mud slides in Southern California, the Craft than 6,700 trade show attendees – up from exhibitors is a positive indicator of the strength SuperShow debut was also a huge success, with a total of 8,044 attendees. More than 3,500 consumers purchased pre-sale tickets with people travelling from 36 different states and 22 different countries, to experience the CHA SuperShow in Anaheim. “The response to our inaugural SuperShow demonstrates that we can be successful at growing the industry by introducing consumers to different crafts,” explains Berger. “We believe the SuperShow will continue to grow as more and more consumers experience a broader variety of crafts first hand, and then share what they learn with their friends and family.” C

Further information For more on CHA visit the website at www.craftandhobby.org. To ﬁnd out more about its award-winning Conventions and Trade Shows visit www.chashow.org.

craftfocus 53 exceeding all expectations

NIKKI SIVILS +1 417 838 0996 www.nikkisivils.com The Willie-Bee collection is inspired by the company logo – Nikki Sivil’s deceased dog Willie-B. At CHA Nikki unveiled six new lines, ANNA GRIFFIN complete with 12’’x12’’ papers, 10” +1 404 817 817 die-cut papers, 6’’x6’’ mini-pads www.annagriffi n.com and stamps. Nikki tells us that her Offering elegant and fashion-forward fi nishes, each collection is made new embellishments were also a up of patterned paper cardstock, 12”x12” bulk and die-cut papers, hit – Cute as a Button self-adhesive chipboard alphabet stickers, hand-stitched papers, oversized die-cut buttons with burlap stitched stickers, border sticker rolls, a journal pack, vellum quotes, and three- on, and Pocket of Treats sticker dimensional and fl ocked stickers. The Cecile Collection captures sheets, which are packaged in a romantic moments with tonal prints and luxurious embellishments pocket that can also be used as an with a delicate and muted, pastel palette of lavender, warm grey, embellishment. Nikki is already at mint, blue and cream. Cecile’s graceful chipboard letters – encrusted work on her next lines of paper with glittery, old-world fl oral stickers and Brussels lace borders – and embellishments. add further dimension to this wedding paper assortment.

CRAFTWELL +1 888 315 8885 www.craftwelluse.com eCraft is the revolutionary electronic cutting system that is easy MAY ARTS RIBBON to use, fun and fast. With no sticky mats and unlimited length +1 203 637 8366 capabilities, it is ideal for banners, home décor, scrapbooking, www.mayarts.com card making and more. The eCraft’s design makes it easy to cut The company’s range of crochet ribbon has a classic vintage appeal, materials automatically and efﬁ ciently, without the need for manual and to add to its versatility, weaving a thinner ribbon through the adjustments and it comes equipped with a paper tray, perfect for centre can quickly change the look. The white colourway can also be cutting multiple images. Use Craftwell’s SD cards and choose from dyed to match any project your customers are working on. This is a hundreds of images and fonts, or attach the machine to a computer brand new design that adds a distinct and timely style to any ribbon to create your own with the Professional Design Software. Crafters display, and it can be sold by the yard or the roll. The size comes as will also be able to design and shop for images on the go using the 7/8”x15yards, and colours include white and ivory. eCraft application which is due out soon.

54 craftfocus

college creations It’s important to consider catering for art and craft students as they are the new generation of crafters. Sarah Peart of Staffordshire University gives us an insight into courses and trends

What are the current student craft trends? glass and ceramics departments, which are What opportunities are there for qualiﬁed, Students will increasingly be seen to combine struggling to recruit, are resource-intensive, young crafters? more than one technique in their work as well and costly to maintain. Many young people It is surprising how few businesses – large as using a breadth of media and materials. are reluctant to get their hands dirty and or small – are not forthcoming in their Sustainable and eco-friendly, renewable, fairly would prefer to work at a clean and sterile support for young makers. Through financial traded, organic, locally supplied and made in keyboard, where almost instant solutions sponsorship or the supply of free materials, the UK are primary considerations which the and results are possible. The crafts are employers could invest in the crafts. A student students take extremely seriously. They have suffering neglect in many schools and so it’s may be funded to explore the potential a desire to exploit the potential of a material, very important for us to embrace the Slow of a new material or tool and, as a result, piece of equipment or tool by working in an Revolution – skills acquisition is intuitively the company would be acknowledged as a exploratory, experimental way, bringing a learned over a period of time, and cannot sponsor in course publicity – work experience refreshing twist to a traditional technique. be rushed. Managers in education need to and placements are beneficial to both student Students may also use materials in a purpose acknowledge this need as there is currently no and business. Live project briefs provide a for which it was not originally intended. time for specialised in-depth study, running real-life experience for students and give the risk of students becoming ‘jack of all them the opportunity to respond to the Is there a high demand for craft courses in trades, master of none’. However, a ‘jack of all needs of industry. The BA(Hons) Surface higher education? trades’ – able to combine and integrate his or Pattern Design and Textile Surfaces courses As the digital, web-based world continues her craft skills successfully – may not be a bad at Staffordshire University are looking to dominate, we are seeing a decline in the thing. Take for example Leonardo Da Vinci – forward to working together with Inspire Me number of crafts-based courses available. In who better to have as a role model? Papers during the next academic year. They particular, we are mourning the demise of will either work on creating a new range of How have things changed over the years? patterned papers, demonstrating how the The current emphasis on creative enterprise range could be extended into product, in the curriculum is a positive development. or designing a stationery range to be sold There is funding available for students to set in TATE shops. Recession brings with it up in business, as well as support available creativity, and we could be about to see the for new small and medium enterprises. profile of craft raised to new heights. Two-year foundation degrees, incorporating entrepreneurship in the creative industries, Do you see upcycling as part of this? provide a framework for those makers hoping Through deconstruction and reconstruction, to set up in business, and flexible modes upcycling is the development of processes and of study are making further and higher design that improve the value of the original education more readily accessible. Without artefact – whereas recycling practices can question, education is costly. Students have sometimes actually reduce the quality of the to find work to pay for their studies and are original materials, for example recycled glass. therefore constantly under pressure of time to make and complete work, to meet deadlines, Could this be why patchwork is on the up? and to complete and pass modules. Sadly, but This involves both upcycling and recycling, understandably, there is a lack of enjoyment and will be a major influence on textile crafts and passion in their practice. this year. It is inspired by the Quilts 1700 –

56 craftfocus show preview student friendly

2010 exhibition at the V&A, which is open Anna Hodgson, The Button Company now until 4th July, showcasing over 300 years +44 (0)1243 775 462 of British quilting history from the 18th www.thebuttoncompany.co.uk century to the creative reinvention of the quilt “Our Wine Gums themed bag comprises 100g of transparent buttons in clear sizes, all by contemporary artists of today. with a bright colour theme. They’re perfect for any project using bright fabrics and yarns, but also look really striking on white. The range is perfect for the younger crafter because Are personal narratives, collective identities the colours speak for themselves. Buttons aside, the new Echino fabric range from Etsuko and conversational pieces important? Furuya is a vibrant mix of colour and patterns, and is used regularly in craft blogs and by From events documented through quilts, designers. It’s a heavier weight linen blend fabric and makes up into beautiful skirts, bags to Tim Burton’s surreal and subversive re- and patchwork. With unique Japanese prints being en vogue, this is an ideal option for imagining of Alice in Wonderland, story- the younger stitcher.” telling will feature strongly across the crafts spectrum this year. Domestic personal possessions, on display at the V&A from June, will no doubt inspire makers to consider the practical and decorative use of handcrafted pieces designed to be portable from an age before clothes had pockets.

Why are students drawn to the whimsical yet bizarre? Deviants, a Crafts Council touring exhibition last year, challenged the current popular opinion of craft as merely decorative or functional by exhibiting the work of maverick makers who turned the ordinary into the extraordinary, combining and juxtaposing fragments of familiar objects to create the unfamiliar. The Mad Hatter attempted to fix his broken pocket watch by spreading butter inside it and dunking it in his broken chinaware cup of tea. Jane Means, Jane Means Designs Recycled, upcycled eclectic assemblages www.janemeans.co.uk of reclaimed ephemera, assembled using a +44 (0)1522 548 900 diversity of craft techniques, will be the must- “The great thing about ribbon is that it can be added to most things and transform haves of 2010. them into something special in an instant. The Red Stitched Grosgrain ribbon, which I designed, is a best seller of ours, and as well as using it for gift wrapping, it looks Further information great added as trim on a pair of jeans or tied in a bow on a formal outfit, handbag or For more details on student crafts, trends or corsage. The ribbon can be tied onto a bunch of keys to help them be seen, sewn on to a to get in touch with the awards manager at lampshade, tablecloth or tea towel, and can be tied around napkins, journals and bunches Staffordshire University, Sarah Peart, email of flowers. Remnants can be used for card making and craft projects too, so it can really [email protected]. go a long way.”

craftfocus 57 college creations

Lisa Davies, STAEDTLER +44 (0)845 600 5930 www.staedtler.co.uk “FIMO Soft polymer modelling clay is really versatile as it comes in a huge choice of colours and is easy to work with. One of the trickiest things is to create perfect beads of a uniform size with no variations in shape and defi nitely no tell-tale fi ngerprint – this is what the Magic Roller helps with, which includes a measuring device to ensure identical quantities of FIMO. It will appeal to students interested in jewellery making, giving them the opportunity to achieve more professional results, and the products are all really aff ordable.”

Debbie Wigglesworth, Inspire Me Papers +44 (0)845 120 0155 www.inspiremepapers.co.uk “Art students in any creative discipline would simply adore our papers available in multicoloured blocks, as well as deluxe stationery boxes. Th is is because colour is the foundation of the majority of all students’ work and quality is felt with the fi ngertips as well as with the eyes. Any retailer looking to inspire interest and generate new sales from a creative student audience is sure to be making a strong and successful statement with any of our Essential collection. Prices vary, so there’s something for every student’s pocket!” Linda Freeman, Simplicity +44 (0)161 480 8734 www.simplicitynewlook.com Donna Blackman, M Courts “Trimming tops and upcycling existing outfi ts is the perfect +44 (0)20 8884 0999 option for students on a limited budget. Belts continue to be www.mcourts-haberdashery.co.uk an important accessory for fashionistas, so this is another “Our new button bags come in trend that craft retailers can off er. Simplicity has introduced combinations of pastel with both an extensive collection of buckles in plastic and metal, bright and dark shades, and contain teamed with belt making materials, and a range of fabulous various shapes and sizes of buttons. trimmings from faux furs and diamantes to colourful ric rac, Our button jars are also good ribbons and braids. It’s all about making it easier for sewers value for money – they contain to create their own style. Combine these with Simplicity’s shades of the same colour Project Runway designs and you are onto a winner – these and come in eight varieties of pattern packs include co-ordinating garment components various size buttons. Th ey can that users put together to create their very own style. Th ere be used for toys, on knitted are lots of ways to upcycle, such as adding gold braiding, items, as embellishments on brass buttons and a belt with metal buckle, all for a military garments, or for card and look, a la Kate Moss. Follow designer Marc Jacobs by adding craft making – and the empty rows of colour-matched ribbon round the hem of a full skirt jars can be reused, making or stitch up a satchel – the newest shape in bags – make it in them very eco friendly!” C black denim and use an enormous buckle to fasten it.”

58 craftfocus Crafty Ideas by Kaz Ltd are pleased to announce that their very popular programs Ultimate Verse Insert Designer & Pyramid Krazy can now be purchased wholesale. For more details please call Karen on 01444 882834 Ultimate Verse Insert Designer The essential tool for creating professional inserts, backing papers, tea bag sheets, ATCs and toppers UVID comes with: Create professional looking inserts/cards with ease. The Ultimate N Over 1650 verse/greetings in 42 categories Verse Insert Designer allows you to easily create inserts, N 16 pre-set insert sizes with a custom button backing papers and teabag sheets. It also gives you the ability to N Over 600 border images in 19 categories add borders and graphics to your inserts, create and save your N 300 main images in 16 categories N 100 textures own verse or use one of the many included verses. You can add N 25 pre-done teabag tiles N 45 backing papers your own artwork and make backing papers or teabag tiles plus N The ability to add your own verses or artwork and eff ects menu with several diff erent eff ects including the N Templates for shapes cards or inserts N ATC template ability to change the colour of your artwork. Pyramid Krazy This new software by Crafty Ideas by Kaz Ltd lets you become your very own pyramid decoupage designer. Create either standard; inverted of twisted pyramids from one of the 21 pyramid styles and 335 pyramid artwork images or you have the ability to import your own artwork or photos. You can alter the look of the pyramid style by moving it around in the image, this function also allows you to create pyramid corners and alter the look of the pyramid in the shape you have chosen. You can choose to print a frame around your layers in one of many colours. I have also included a backing paper page with matching backing paper designs for all you artwork, and an embellishments page which allows you to create those all important matching embellishments to your project. Pyramid Krazy also includes a Tag Maker allowing you to make matching tags to all your artwork, including any artwork you import and a text function to allow you to add text to your artwork, tags or backing paper. An eff ects option which allows you to use one of several diff erent eff ects including a colour changer allowing you to change the colour of any image. A shape library which allows you to save tags and changes to pyramid styles you make. Included is a quick start guide to walk you through creating your fi rst standard pyramid and video help fi les to hold your hand through using and getting the best out of PK. There are so many possibilities with PK that the only real limitation is your imagination.

Included in PK are: Minimum requirement: N 21 pyramid styles (with the ability to alter N PC running Windows® xp (SP2) the size and look, giving you infi nite Windows Vista™ of Windows® 7 (32bit) possibilites) N 512mb RAM for XP, 1024mb RAM for N 335 Pyramid Artwork Images plus the Vista™ and 1024mb RAM for Windows® 7 ability to import your own artwork and photos (32bit) N 408 Background Tiles to make your N 3GB of free disk space backing papers plus the ability to use your N DVD Drive own artwork N Printer N 100 Textures a 20 Pre-done Tags N Minimum screen resolution 1024 x 768 N Tag Making Wizard an Ability to add Text www.craftyideasbykaz.co.uk N Quick Start Guide a Video Help Tutorials Unit 2, Ricebridge Retail, Brighton Road, Bolney, W Sussex, RH17 5NA the whole kit and caboodle Inspire your customers with these all-in-ones containing everything they need to get crafty

Krasnaya Nesting Dolls +44 (0)1246 208 482 www.krasnaya.co.uk Off ering something new and diff erent, this fi ve-piece Paint Your Own Nesting Doll kit is based on a traditional Sergiev Posad Russian design. Each doll is hand-turned, GillianGladrag before features are drawn on in a +44 (0)7545 018 560 pencil outline by the fi rm’s artists www.gilliangladrag.co.uk in Russia, ensuring high quality and Th e Boomting Bunting feltmaking kit by charm. At this point, Krasnaya take GillianGladrag is ideal for a beginners as their share of the dolls before the well as experienced feltmakers. Th e cheerful rest go on to be painted and sold in bunting is made from six fl at pieces of felt, Moscow. Th e kit contains six colours of with diff erent colours and patterns on each. quality, water-based acrylic, paint brush and step-by-step instructions. Th e result is a Gillian Harris, author of Complete Feltmaking product that is fun and easy to make – almost like a 3D colouring book. and the designer of all the kits in the range tells us that the process is straightforward once you put the time aside to make the product. She also thinks it’s worth having the kit made up and on display in your shop. Th is will help promote sales, as it is eye-catching, tactile and bang on trend. Th e kit includes Merino wool tops, ribbon to sew it onto, and full, clear, step-by-step instructions to make 2.5m of felt bunting. Th is is all presented in eye-catching, stand-up packaging. A basic feltmaking kit is required in addition to the kit and is available separately from GillianGladrag. For further information email [email protected].

DMC Creative World +44 (0)116 275 4000 www.dmccreative.co.uk Craft ers can capture special memories and create an heirloom with DMC’s Stitch a Photo™. Th e pack contains everything required to send a photograph off to DMC and have it converted into a handmade, customised cross stitch chart. Th e chart includes a full list of all the DMC threads needed to stitch the design in either colour, sepia or black, and additional business is done through sales of stranded cotton and Aida fabric. To fi nd out more email [email protected].

60 craftfocus kits for adults

Mosaic Mad Romans +44 (0)1273 586 181 www.mosaicmadromans.com Th is Flowerpot Mosaic is a new product for April 2010. Craft ers can create an individual, little terracotta mosaic pot, and then arrange a bouquet of fl owers above it, using gems, sequins, millefi ori, and model grass to give a mossy eff ect. Sparkly glitter sand is used to cover the background, and a magnet is supplied to stick on the back, resulting in a striking fi nished product to keep in the kitchen and brighten up the fridge door. It is suitable for adults or older children, due to the mirror and millefi ori materials included in the pack, which need more care and attention to work with.

Blueberry Park +44 (0)113 266 2092 www.blueberry-park.co.uk Design-a-Shopper is one product in the range Creative BeadCraft of great Take-Away Craft Kits from Blueberry +44 (0)1494 786 924 Park, and it gives your customers a chance to www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk create their own roomy, fabric shopper bag – a Creative Beadcraft has a choice of 18 colour co-ordinated jewellery kit boxes. Five kits are sewing activity with an eco slant. Craft ers can based on the company’s popular Elements range, with a selection of large focal beads as embroider their own design, embellish it with well as smaller ones. Th e kits are easy to make up into necklaces and bracelets. Th e other the beads and buttons, and carry their reusable 13 kits have beads and pendants in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials, including bag with pride. Th e kit comes in Blueberry fi ndings for making earrings, necklaces and bracelets, all with instructions included. Park’s trademark ‘Take-Away’ box, and Th emed kit boxes such as Safari and Sealife are also available for children, and all of the contains everything needed to design the bag – kits are suitable for presents or impulse buys – a great idea for counter displays. For a free shopper, embroidery hoop, beads, buttons and retail pack email beads@creativebeadcraft .co.uk. embroidery thread – along with an instruction and ideas sheet to give a little inspiration.

craftfocus 61 the whole kit and caboodle

RedHotBed +44 (0)1782 561 131 www.redhotbed.co.uk New from RedHotBed – which has just launched a whole new look for 2010 – is this craft ing kit for men, Dashing Dogs, which comes complete with instructions. It includes two printed cards, two die-cut topper sheets, and two C5 envelopes, so craft ers can make two diff erent cards then add embellishments as a fi nishing touch. Th e products within this kit have been designed to appeal to both new and experienced craft ers, and a wider selection should be on off er soon. Th e second issue of the catalogue will be released in May. For further information regarding the new range email [email protected].

Fat Cat Cross Stitch +44 (0)1568 780 183 More Than Bags www.fatcatcross-stitch.co.uk +44 (0)1248 717 147 Th e Weekender Range is www.morethanbags.co.uk the latest collection of bold, Th ese Craft ing & Scrapbooking Kits, supplied bright, fun designs from Fat on a wholesale basis by this North Wales-based Cat Cross Stitch. Th e ten family company, are made from the Lokta bark small, fun kits are designed which is a 100% sustainable resource. Th ere to be quick to stitch and are over 100 pieces of Lokta paper in a wide are therefore suitable for variety of shapes and sizes. Shapes include holidays and wet weekends, polka dots, daisies and hearts, and there are as well as making wonderful always the adaptable skeleton leaves included little presents when a card in each kit. Every single colour is made from isn’t quite enough. Each kit natural dyes, all contents are chemical and has an RRP of £6.95 and acid free, and every aspect of the contents includes 14 HPI Aida fabric, pre-sorted threads, is handmade – from piece cutting to screen chart, instructions, needle and a full colour cover picture for easy reference. For further printing. For further information email information email [email protected]. [email protected].

62 craftfocus

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Brighten up your tapestry selection with Jolly Red’s friendly kits Cushion kits Starter kits Christmas stockings Teacosies Needlepoint postcards

Contact Kelly for trade prices + your copy of Kit Book 14, packed .WZ\ZILMQVNWXTMI[MKWV\IK\][I\ with new designs for 2010 as well as our best-selling favourites. QVNW([\Q\KPKT]JKW]S Tel: (+44) (0) 1460 281 111 WZKITT [email protected] www.jollyred.co.uk ___[\Q\KPKT]JKW]S

Jolly Red, Unit 1, Monk’s Dairy Workshops, Isle Brewers Somerset, TA3 6QL

kits for adults

Past Times Quilling +44 (0)1332 840 582 www.pasttimesquilling.com There is a large range of kits offered by Past Times Quilling, and all are ideal for adults, – whether they are experienced or having a go for the first time. The Advanced Quilling Workbox is suitable for a keen crafter. It contains theAdvanced Quilling Handbook – which shows a range of different techniques as well as teaching the basic quilling shapes – together with three different widths of quilling paper, three different sized quilling tools, adhesive, a selection of card, and a gift box to decorate. It is designed as a replenishable workbox, making it more cost effective. For further details about all kits and accessories email [email protected].

Stitchclub +44 (0)845 838 7211 www.stitchclub.co.uk Following a huge response to their adults’ Sewing Machine Skills kits SpangleJangle which launched in 2009, Stitchclub +44 (0)29 2052 1122 realised there was a huge gap in the www.spanglejangle.com market for simple adult hand-sewing There are two new designs in kits for beginners. Their new Baby SpangleJangle’s Tassel Dolly counted Stitches range offers adults everything cross stitch series – Bride and Groom they need to learn to sew and make and Birthday Girl. The characters beautiful, personalised items for their include a happy couple on their child’s room. The range includes wedding day, and an excited little girl Bunting, Room Signs and Love Hearts, busily opening presents. Both kits they all come in pink and blue, and include alpha and numeric figures are displayed in a gorgeous box with enabling your customer to add a a unique tape measure style ribbon personal message. Each kit includes handle. These Sewing Machine Skills a cross stitch chart, Aida fabric, kits make a fantastic addition to sorted Anchor threads, needle and sales of sewing machines, fabrics and instructions, and the finished designs haberdashery. For further information measure 12.5cm x 12.5cm. email [email protected].

craftfocus 65 SPRING OFFERS FROM STAEDTLER

STAEDTLER is celebrating the launch of its rebranded FIMO Hobby & Creative range with sensational Spring offers across the range. Running until 31 May, the promotion highlights key products within the range, such as FIMO polymer modelling clay, sets and accessories, FIMO leaf metal and FIMO air drying clay. New additions to the FIMO Soft ‘Kits for Kids’ range and push moulds are also included in the promotion.

0845 600 5930 www.staedtler.co.uk trendspotting

We go trendspotting in the world of rubber stamping, and get some advice stamp duty from the experts

Sally Butcher, Photocentric +44 (0)1733 349 937 www.photocentric.co.uk

“There is an ever increasing variety of stamps on the market today, both in rubber and clear forms. Judith Brewer, Woodware Craft Collection We are still seeing +44 (0)1756 700 024 an increase in www.woodware.co.uk clear stamps, in particular we are being asked to make more A6 and “Stamps were as popular as ever at a very successful trade show this year – and A7 and even smaller stamp sheets to meet certain the cling rubber style was a big hit with retailers. From a retailer’s point of view, price points. Stamps today are part of a range of they come packaged so are easy to keep clean, store, and most importantly display. products and are used across all crafts, not just card From a stamper’s point of view, they get the beneﬁ t of a rubber stamp, but still the making and scrapbooking. Our brand new Imagepac bonus of less storage space required. Stampendous cling rubber stamps come with stampmaker allows the user to make a stamp, a full-size index on the back to give amazing visibility when the stamp is positioned embossing die or stencil in just ﬁ ve minutes. It is our on an acrylic block — this aids positioning while stamping. The pack has very clear easiest ever kit and will appeal to shops and clubs, instructions for using this type of stamping system. We also launched 20 new as well as to designers and those who simply want embossing colours at Craft Hobby + Stitch International, but more are due to be to make original pieces of art for jewellery, ceramics, released. With our great new technique – Painting with Powder – Fran Seiford from home decor, papercrafts, woodworking and more.” Stampendous has brought the wow factor back to embossing.”

Kira Harris, Letraset +44 (0)1233 624 421 www.letraset.com/craft

“Crafters are becoming more sophisticated in their use of creative tools and are demanding more from their art materials. The quality of ink and stability of colour are a big priority for the stamper, since colour application has a dominant infl uence on the overall fi nish. We have seen an increasing demand for rich and vibrant colours as crafters learn more about colour science. As a result, we’re seeing some really exciting results – which will only become more popular over the next few months as beginners are inspired by seasoned craft designers’ willingness to show what rubber stamping can do. Letraset markers have long been a trusted product, thanks to their consistent ink fl ow and professional, streak-free fi nish. Now the craft community has caught on to this, the demand for ProMarkers has been outstanding, and in response Letraset has engineered two new sets specifi cally for rubber stamping.”

craftfocus 67 stamp duty

Jennie Boxall, The Stamp Connection +44 (0)1795 531 860 www.thestampconnection.co.uk/trade

“It is always diffi cult to predict what will be the next big thing in rubber stamping as the internet – including stampers’ blogs – can change the trends in a moment. Dulcie Jackson, Wild Rose Studio Personally, I think that the trend now is for more colour +44 (0)117 364 3076 and less grungy-style artwork, especially with the new www.wildrosestudio.co.uk distress inks having been released. Grunge style artwork is being replaced by more vintage art, using fabric type “The ‘cute’ trend has been big for a while backgrounds and fi bres, and with the emphasis on brighter and this shows no sign of stopping. I think colours. Making your own fl owers is still very much in now that customers are generally more vogue, but also using ultra-thick embossing enamels, experienced as stampers and cardmakers textured paints and lots of embellishments. We currently than a few years ago, they’re more have new Mabel Lucie Attwell stamps, which are very demanding and picky about the style of much on trend – the recent releases are her 1910 Alice ‘cute’ that they want. This has also been in Wonderland illustrations. Our gorgeous lace stamps work beautifully as backgrounds and edges. encouraged by the rise of the internet With the release of new dies, shapes and cutters from Tim Holtz, the trend will be for more cards – customers can easily share ideas and and scrapbooking, incorporating die cuts, embossing, and of course stamping.” their favourite designs, so trends are more easily communicated through blogs and social networking. At Wild Rose Studio Tim Lockey, Words Like Honey we’ve created the Milton & Co rubber +44 (0)1462 639 829 stamp range, specially for discerning www.wordslikehoney.com fans of ‘cute’, with adorable and versatile images, perfect for stamping on cards. “The trend we have noticed in stamping is a move from Vintage is a huge trend across all ranges traditional wooden-backed stamps to clear versions. They allow of retail right now and I wouldn’t be the crafter to see through the block and stamp to check its surprised if this grows within the stamp position – this makes the stamp placement more accurate. The sector as well, because crafters love move to clear stamps has been somewhat problematic, nostalgia. But I also expect these trends with some poor quality examples originally giving all clear to be mixed with modern fl avours, for a stamps a bad name. The stamps we design are produced in fresh take on the vintage theme.” the UK using non-yellowing, high grade, photopolymer resin. This method of manufacturing gives a nice, crisp image when stamped, as well as a long-lasting serviceable stamp.”

Lynnda Worsnop, Oak House Studio +44 (0)1482 881 809 www.oakhousestudio.co.uk

“We have recently seen people enjoy colouring stamped images with watercolour products like Pentel’s Aquash, and there has also been a wider use of mixed media as people gain conﬁ dence with techniques. Customers are recognising better value products are ones which last longer and can do more, rather than the cheapest product on the shelf. With TV shows like ‘Kirsty’s Homemade Home’, I see more people extending their stamping projects beyond card making – such as decorating ordinary, previously plain objects. We go to end user shows, demonstrations in stores and run workshops locally, so we are talking to crafters all the time. We are well placed to get new designs and colours to retailers on a very short-time scale. We are currently researching what it is that people enjoy about stamping and how we can make it more accessible to end users and retailers. New products from Oak House Studio include additions to our Colour Chemistry Ink range and Fellowes Earth series for those crafters looking for an alternative product to stamp onto. Wider markets are essential if the industry is to grow.” C

68 craftfocus Make stamps, stencils & embossing dies

Quick Simple Creative Professional stamps in 5 mins

Tel: 01733 349937 Email: [email protected] www.imagepacstampmaker.com the importance of e-commerce We talk to some retailers about how they utilise online sales

Kathleen Cooper, La Fourmi consumers don’t find out the trade prices. great deal too. Regulars also love the site + 32 2687 7629 It’s difficult to judge how this strategy has – it enables them to see what’s in stock www.cordslafourmi.com impacted financially, but it has reduced the before they visit! My tips would be to keep number of staff we need to code in orders. it simple and low budget, and choose your What did you We have a copy of our catalogue on domain name carefully. Also, don’t be afraid discover was the the ‘outside’ of the website, and it is not to ask customers what they think and want, best way to utilise password protected. This satisfies any note isolated comments, and act when a e-commerce consumer who might be wondering what trend appears! within your we sell. You can turn the pages with a click, business? a bit like a real paper catalogue. You can see What aspects of e-commerce do you We use it on www.lafourmi.eu. use and how have they impacted on you e-commerce for financially? our wholesale How has the significance of e-commerce The internet sales cost very little to set up orders only. We found it best to make changed over the past few years? – about £200 per year – and in-store I offer it as easy as possible for the buyer who For us it has made a huge difference, largely loyalty points which I don’t offer online, so is trying to order online. This has meant because we have the ability to tell our one balances out the other. giving the information on the product customers about stock levels, offers and I haven’t really touched on internet in three languages, to include the price, new items, so long as they take the trouble marketing other than reciprocal the pack quantity, size, and also the stock to look at our website. The aspects I have arrangements with complementary availability – our website is linked to our described above mean that we can give businesses – my advertising budget is very internal commercial system. A customer information in real time, and save a good precious, so I tend to advertise in national enters the quantity ordered next to the deal of time in dealing with orders. craft magazines focusing on both the shop selected item and completes his order on and online store. our website after which the information Janine Pickhover, Worthing Craft Shop The stock side of my shop EPOS gets sent over to us. This means that orders +44 (0)1903 210 121 system links directly into my online stock placed by customers are in our system www.worthingcraftshop.co.uk availability; this is key for customers, and each morning, and we do not need to it also means I have one lot of stock to enter them manually. The great advantage What did you manage. I think having online transaction is that nobody actually has to type in either discover was the processing is important – do everything you our reference or the description, thus best way to utilise can to ensure it’s secure, but also consider preventing the possibility of human error, e-commerce within low-tech options too. Local customers who as well as saving time. We now receive your business? can’t visit the shop are delighted to pay well over half our orders via the website. I started with a cash when I deliver their purchases! We update it twice a day so that any new very basic website items, special offers, price changes or stock and was soon How has the significance of e-commerce variations are correct within a few hours. clearly identifying changed over the past few years? the new customers its presence had I’d certainly say it’s increased. It’s all about What aspects of e-commerce do you generated. Visitors were also coming from giving customers a choice in how to shop use and how have they impacted on you much further afield, and it wasn’t long and more flexibility in the way that they financially? before customers were asking for an online do it. As technology moves on, more and We only use online transaction processing store. Again, I’ve kept the costs minimal more options become possible – digital for trade sales, so our website is protected and have certainly more than justified the downloads are one example, online by passwords and items are coded – this outlay. I average 500 hits per week now, booking for workshops another. Thankfully means web browsers seldom pick it up and and footfall to the shop has increased a for me, e-commerce negates some of the

70 craftfocus retailer round up 71

focus craft C What aspects of e-commerce do you use use What aspects of e-commerce do you they impacted on have and how financially? you full use of internet make sales, We online transaction processing, marketing, reporting packing, ordering, stock control, and statistics gathering – plus countless integrated that are fully other features into our systems. of e-commerce has the significance How years? the past few changed over online sales to found always have We We represent the majority of our business. used to operate a catalogue side as well, years dropped that a few ago when we but made it insignificant the costs involved Sales have next our main online business. rapidly opened, been growing since we throughout to grow continued and have our just doubled have We the recession. warehouse space and expect to increase the over our product range significantly next 12 months. solutions and investigated routes to market solutions and investigated in the end we but Amazon, and eBay like found. we with any happy really weren’t a lot of in-house have are lucky that we We a to build been able expertise, and have state-of-the-art e-commerce system that is needs. customised to our specific What did you What did you was the discover to utilise best way e-commerce within business? your At Handy Hippo triedwe out out- numerous of-the-box e-commerce Richard Heywood, Handy Hippo Heywood, Richard +44 (0)1753 539 222 www.handyhippo.co.uk How has the significance of e-commerce of e-commerce has the significance How years? the past few changed over us to has e-commerce allowed Not only existing customers our provide with the it has but round, ability to shop all year us to tap into the global market. enabled regular customers have in the now We Hong Kong and even Russia, Australia, US, Our overseas just to name a few! Bermuda, over significantly customer base has grown years to grow the past two and continues – without e-commerce this would strongly been possible. not have is – so we would recommend e-commerce recommend e-commerce would is – so we who is thinking about expanding to anyone their business. For over 20 years 20 years For over attended have we craft shows retail What did you What did you was the discover to utilise best way e-commerce within your business? where we meet and greet thousands of of meet and greet thousands where we But our customers customers face to face. often got frustrated want to as they didn’t our until they could buy wait another year we Listening to their feedback, products. an online shop and decided then to build told our customers about this when they visited us at the shows. We use most aspects of e-commerce use most aspects of e-commerce We including online transaction processing, internet Our sales and internet marketing. online shop is just one arm of our business, this to be veryand it is proving successful; is reflected in our recent accomplishment at – Online Retailer Awards the Origin Craft Due to the promotion of our Year. of the our customers purchase site at the shows, and round, our fantastic products all year every do our best to make always we interaction Our as personal as possible. has increased dramaticallyturnover since startedwe online – selling our products medium it what a powerful which shows What aspects of e-commerce do you What aspects of e-commerce do you they impacted on you have use and how financially? Carol Mulvey, The Black Sheep Mulvey, Carol +44 (0)1925 764 231 www.blacksheepwools.co.uk negative effect of escalating local parking effect negative verycosts! It’s an integrated much part of business. my 0HWDOHPERVVLQJLVWKHKRWWHVWQHZWUHQG :RXOG\RXOLNHWRWU\VRPHWKLQJQHZDQGH[FLWLQJ" 0HWDOHPERVVLQJFRXOGEHMXVWZKDW\RXDUHORRNLQJIRU 7KHUHDUHVRPHJUHDWQHZFRORXUHGPHWDOVWKLV\HDU DQGWKHVHIDQWDVWLFWRROVDQGXQXVXDOPHWDOVDUH DYDLODEOHIURP /%&UDIWV/WG 7HOZZZOEFUDIWVFRP

NEW FOR 2010 New designs added to the very popular double sided Kabuka and Big Daddy Moulds plus fabulous new coloured metal.

7HO_)D[ :HEVLWHZZZFRORXUFUDIWOWGFRP (PDLOHQTXLULHV#FRORXUFUDIWOWGFRP Buttonbag has added brand new designs to its %5$1'1(:%586+2 best-selling craft kits for children 6+,00(5635$<6 and is launching a range of vintage %HDXWLIXOYLEUDQWPHWDOOLFDQG jewellery kits for adults. VKLPPHULQJFRORXUVLQDILQH VSUD\PLVWERWWOH www.buttonbag.co.uk 0$5.$/3$,1767,.6 [email protected] 2QHRIWKH8.·VOHDGLQJ GLVWULEXWRUVRIERWK 0208 525 1640 SDLQWVWLNVDQGDFFHVVRULHV

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&RORXUFUDIW&RORXUVDQG$GKHVLYHV/LPLWHG8QLWV &DUOLVOH6WUHHW(DVW6KHIILHOG6'7 craft tools 73

focus craft Beads Unlimited +44 (0)1273 740774 www.beadsunlimited.co.uk Beads Unlimited, There are three grades by of tool offered suiting varying pliers – hobby occasional uses and budgets for craft pliers use, the for and top- crafter, keen pliers notch professional the perfectionist. for Choose one or more from the handiest half-round round, or plump or cutter, pliers the multi for which combine the of all three. effectiveness For more specialised cord nippers, work, memory wire cutters and thread snippers are and crimping an option, pliers your will give work the air customers’ at an of professionalism RRP of £6.50 per pair. Crafter’s Companion Crafter’s +44 (0)1388 660930 www.crafterscompanion.co.uk with four rotary is a five-in-one The Clevercut paper trimmer, It rotary on an easy-to-switch blades interchangeable head. incorporates has a and an integrated corner rounder punch, allowing plate, base capacity with extendable sheet cutting five trimmerThe has an papers. craftersA3 or 12”x12” cut up to to available. are also blades RRP of £29.99 and replacement Beadalon +1 610 466 6000 www.beadalon.com crafters can crimp artisticTool wires of varying With the Crinkle attaching gearsThe process begins by onto the base, thicknesses. inserting the wire into the small hole and then catching it in the turned until the desired The gear can be slowly centre of the gears. gears Interchangeable can be used amount of crinkled wire is made. retail- comes as a Tool The Crinkle crinkle different for patterns. styles of gears containing two – ready package with instructions, as a base.rounded and pointed – as well

of the trade

The Finishing Touch The Finishing +44 (0)1926 889966 www.beadsandcrystals.co.uk The Kandi Kane CrystalApplicator working for is suitable with Wand flatback Elements Hotfix Swarovski crystals and is recommended by It is easy to use the manufacturers. no glue or tweezers, with no mess, and can be used to transform porous materials such as shoes, bags and hairbands. t-shirts, hats, the tool can be in, Once an attachment is selected and screwed stones and it will then melt glue on the back of the heated up, The wand can be purchased complete with 10 tips, and crystals. along free wire cleaning brush and tweezers at an RRP of £22, crystals.with a huge selection of Swarovski tools Remind your customersRemind your important just how craft the make tools are – they can really most of the material being used Heritage Crafts +44 (0)1889 575 256 www.hcrafts.com Heritage Crafts Scissor City and Premax has added to both its embroidery of increasing the number ranges, scissors offered. Scissor City scissors are made from high-grade steel, stainless in a variety finishes. of metallic and painted and are available are also available and Premax scissors are of the highest quality, The Scissor and nickel. including classic gold in various finishes, and the Premax RRPs are from City range has an RRP of £4.50, £11-£15 depending on design and finish. Magic Patented Tools Magic Patented +44 (0)20 8337 2085 www.magictools.co.uk works multi-purpose Magic Saw effortlessly blade, The three-way through metal, It can be used to saw through a range of materials. and so rubber glass, and even aluminium, PVC, wood, ceramic, appeal to a variationwould of crafters from jewellery makers to kits of different There are a number ceramic and glass enthusiasts. each has a variation but to suit of blades which can be purchased, at the tip of the and there is a tungsten roller blade crafts, different cutting glass or tiles in curves which is used for or straight lines. saw, the body shop

Sales Director of Adjustform, Chris Darwent, tells us about the company’s history – and how new products are key to its success

Who founded Adjustoform, and what adjustable dress forms, and enjoys some 90% Grandma might have stood in her bedroom – prompted them to do so? of the world’s market. Around 85% of the perhaps to display a special garment. The Lady Adjustoform was founded a very long time ago turnover is exported, with the USA taking the Valet is our most expensive dress form, but it is – in fact, about 45 years ago, so it had a history largest volume of sales. There are very few also one of our most successful products. long before I joined the company in 1995! parts of the world that are untapped in terms One of our latest and again most successful In those early days the only sewing aid that of sales coverage, and in return the company developments in modern contrast to the Lady was available to a dressmaker for garment has gained important recognition, with Valet is the Sew Deluxe Leg Form, which fitting was a fixed body form. This was made accolades such as Queen’s Award to Industry is ideal for the modern women who wants to a specific set of measurements which, if not and a Barclays Bank Export Award. to sew trousers and shorts as well as the suited to the person the garment was being standard features required for sewing skirts, made for, had to be padded with wadding at What are your most successful products and dresses, jackets and coats. This form has been bust, waist or hips – or in all areas – to reach why do you think this is? on the market for around three years and is the correct dress size. Adjustoform’s very first collection of forms, now our top seller. This was not an easy process, particularly My Double, is still important to us today. It’s a We believe, therefore, that our success is for a more inexperienced sewer, and so well tried and tested high quality favourite, but in part due to the new products we have Adjustoform was set up by a family who many new collections have since been added developed for the modern sewing market, and recognised that if they could produce dress to offer choice to satisfy the demands of the also because of the importance we make of forms that could be adjusted, then the job of world’s sewers. quality control at shop floor level. setting up the torso ready for dressmaking In terms of our most successful products, became that much simpler. we knew it was important to offer a really What do you think is the next best thing? The first small factory was based in East traditional dress form and The Lady Valet with In recent months we’ve worked hard to London for many years and moved to Ashford, its solid wood stand and cap was developed build on the firm base of the business to take Kent in the mid 1960s. to fill the slot of an heirloom type of form that Adjustoform into the future.

How has the company’s business offering evolved since this time? In 1988 Adjustoform and the furniture company it was housed in were acquired by new owners, who had an interest in both businesses, and began to examine the potential for future production processes. At the time, Adjustoform had few sales aids and worked only with a leaﬂet which was turning yellow at the corners and hidden under a pile of fabric, and certainly no-one did any direct selling. However, the new management soon recognised the potential of an adjustable sewing form idea, and set about improving the image of the company and developing its products. We are now a small management team and are proud in the knowledge that Adjustoform is the world’s largest commercial producer of

74 craftfocus proﬁ le 75

focus craft C We have always been supportive always the have of We Adjustoform into a group of has grown are also the European distributor of We very but importantly that know – we Lastly, Further information Adjustoform call For more details on send an email to +44 (0)1233 625 227, or visit the website [email protected], at www.adjustoform.com. and experienced sewer. We’ll also continue also continue We’ll and experienced sewer. and to encourage comment from consumers, in considering value their feedback new we product development. and educational aspect of the sewing market, to supportwill continue sewing classes and the as promotion of sewing in schools – as well the current of sewing as a hobby. growth rm exclusively and includes a fi companies, and marketingcommitted to the manufacture bodies and stands xed of a collection of fi These forms are also retail display. for under the name Ashford at manufactured and can be furtherBody Boutique, developed in the future. friendly collection of high an environmentally market which we craft felt, quality polyester name Fashion Futures. under the company its currentAdjustoform outgrown has now An important factory part facilities. of our the future include relocating to plans for which offers more a new location in Kent, warehousing space to accommodate extensive and a new largerour increasing turnover It looks as though our future is showroom. going to be very busy! The needs of garment sewers around the While we think that a hobby or sewing think that a hobby While we The development of a collection of The development world are many and varied, and dress form world and varied, are many suit the beginner must designs and features How would you like the company to develop to develop the company like you would How years? the next few over are veryAs a team we proud of our things in the and there are many achievements it to take pipeline to strengthen the company The new dress form and sewing into the future. work station collections that are planned for are intended to introduction later this year broaden our customer base. We are certainlyWe not complacent in our During years the last two we’ve success. cost concentrated of low on the development forms in line with the needs of ‘promotional’ One such form has been produced the market. the large for it possible store groups, to make to run special offers in the USA, instance, for and Black Friday. Day Mother’s for What steps are you taking to weather the taking to weather you What steps are storm? Before the recession hit the UK, we had many had many we the recession hit the UK, Before internal and had set out plans to discussions we However, combat the downturn if it hit us. lling nd our order book fi fi to amazed were the end of the and by before, faster than ever the had achieved we nancial year 2008/2009 fi So far 2009/2010 yet. most successful year appears our order book is just as strong and with the factory ahead, weeks many full for 2,000 dress formsmanufacturing averagely every week. What’s your take on the current state of the state on the current take your What’s market? room in this day and age is a luxuryroom in this day few that the same collection of people can afford, t work has also been designed to fi stations comfortably into a general home environment. This means when it is not being used for the work a as station can double sewing, kids to base for computer desk or the perfect do their homework. workstation sewing modules with automatic use in a hobby for suitable machine storage, us in the right will take and direction room, diverse exciting and will be a really for project everyone who works the company. for planning to succeed

It may not always be clear how important it is to produce a business plan. James Stancombe, Business Link Advisor, explains how to go about it – and why it’s essential

When you started Broadly speaking your business plan troughs. You can also analyse the volume of your business should include: sales to help you get a clear picture of stock you may well that sells well and that which sits on the shelf. have produced a • An outline of any changes you want to You then need to make some assumptions business plan – but make to your business about the coming year’s sales. Every year have you looked at • Potential changes to your market, is different so you need to think about the it since? People may customers and competition factors that could have an impact on your tell you that you • Your objectives and goals for the year business. These could be things such as a need a business • Your Key Performance Indicators, for new competitor moving into the area (or plan even though example number of customers or details a competitor closing down), or a reduction your business is on stock cover in the volume of sales because of a general established, but why should you bother? • Any issues or problems slowdown in the retail sector. It’s very easy just to carry on as you are • Any operational changes You should also think about how you are when you’re running a small business and focus • Information about your management and going to improve your position and maintain on day-to-day activities, rather than looking the people involved your sales. You could consider whether to put at the bigger picture. However, when you • Your financial performance and forecasts up some prices which, even if the volume of look closely at some of the most successful • Details of investment in the business sales for those products falls, would result businesses, you’ll find that they’ve made time in an increase in overall revenue. You should to create and manage budgets, as well as You should keep your plan concise and look at stocking new ranges and dropping regularly monitor finances and performance. focused – it is a working document so there’s ranges that haven’t continued to sell well. When money is tight, re-visiting your no point spending a lot of time writing Depending on your situation, you might even business plan, especially your budgets and something very lengthy that no-one is going to think about looking for a new location which cash flow forecasts, can help you identify ways look at again. offers cheaper rent or is in a better position to reduce costs and improve your sales and for passing trade, or developing online sales profits. Business planning will also help you to Let’s talk figures as well as selling through your shop. Many focus on things that could be changed, and of your assumptions will be based on good come up with ideas to re-vitalise your business. In this article we’re focusing on the financial judgement and a knowledge of your customers You are probably already undertaking many side of your plan, so let’s take a closer look and market, although you could also do some of the activities associated with business at the figures side of the business. You need market research. planning such as looking at new products, to remember that the financial forecasts Once you’ve got all the facts and figures keeping an eye on your competitors and you include in your business plan are a together you can create a sales forecast that checking cash flow and profit, even if you representation in numbers of all the other breaks down your sales into monthly figures, haven’t formalised this into a written plan. The elements of the business plan, so you need to including a breakdown of different product beginning of the financial year is a good time write or update your business plan first before ranges that you sell. It’s important to avoid to do your planning, so if you’ve already got a tackling your financial planning. wishful thinking, so it’s a good idea to look back business plan you should think about updating A large element of financial planning is your at last year’s forecast and see if your figures it now. If you’ve never written a business plan, sales forecast, and the starting point for that were realistic when compared to your actual and are starting from scratch, the Business Link are last year’s sales figures. These will give you sales. You could also ask someone to look at website has lots of advice and information on a good idea of the sales you can expect for the forecast and challenge it – an accountant, if where to start. the coming year and identify your peaks and you have one, or a senior sales person in your

76 craftfocus business link

business can give you another perspective. • Reduce any borrowing to minimise your accounting software, or spreadsheets – Once you have your sales forecast you need bank charges whatever works best for you to look at all your outgoings to complete your • Change your bank account to one with • Be realistic about whether your costs are cash flow forecast. These include your running lower charges covered by the sales you are forecasting, costs such as rent, rates, insurance, staffing, • Look at leasing arrangements, rather than and constantly adjust your forecasts to heating, lighting and the cost of stock as well buying any equipment you might need to take account of any external factors as any repayments on loans, bank charges and replace after a time • Don’t overbuy – you don’t want to be income tax. Enter all the figures in the relevant • Reduce your packaging costs, such as stuck with stock that you can’t sell. Also, month so you can spot any times of the year supplying bags to customers – most cutting back on some ranges will free up when cash is going to be tight. If you’re not customers are more environmentally money to introduce new stock, keeping sure how to create a cash flow forecast the aware now and may not need a bag your shop looking fresh and giving Business Link website has a template you can • Look at staffing arrangements and customers a reason to come back download to assist this. opening hours to make sure you are • Take seasonal trends into account – you The key point about having a good paying staff for the times that they are will have peaks and troughs throughout knowledge of how your business is performing needed most the year, and you need to maintain a financially on a daily, weekly and monthly basis • Ask your staff for their ideas – they may balance between ordering your stock is that you can start looking at ideas for saving well think of things that haven’t occurred in time for busy periods while avoiding money and increasing your profits, as well as to you. having to pay suppliers when cash is tight responding quickly to any problems as they come up – rather than being taken by surprise Looking after the cash should not only improve In summary, to be successful you need to be when things don’t go according to plan. your profit margin, but will also give your clear about where your business is going, and business direction and allow you to respond a good business plan should be the framework Making savings quickly to market conditions. which sets out your vision and goals. It should be a living document that you update and When looking around your business to see My top tips for managing your business change as your business changes or grows, and where you can make savings, you might finances and using them to improve your getting the financial planning right is a key part be surprised at how a small number of performance are: of making your business plan work for you. measures can have a surprising impact on your Even if you only intend to use your business profitability. For example, you could: • Understand your business intimately and plan internally, rather than needing it for an know where your sales and costs are external purpose such as raising finance, it still • Ask for extended credit terms with coming from pays to use the annual planning process as an suppliers – and negotiate the right deal • Make sure you know what your break- opportunity to take an objective and honest with them even point is and keep an eye on your look at your business. C • Order less stock but more often ‘cushion’ of cash, to ensure that you have • Negotiate a returns policy with suppliers enough money in the bank to pay your Further information for stock that doesn’t sell well staff and suppliers on time For more details and advice on business • Change your insurance or power • Monitor the cash flow of your business planning or any other area of managing your suppliers and accountants – don’t be on a weekly or monthly basis. You finances, visit the Business Link website at afraid to ask for discounts or a review of shouldn’t wait until the VAT returns or www.businesslink.gov.uk or alternatively call their charges annual accounts. You can use bookkeeping on +44 (0)845 600 9006.

craftfocus 77 all the answers Our experts tackle some of your retail-related queries...

Protecting key employees David Braithwaite has been advising both corporate I run a successful business which is mainly run by two of and individual clients for over 15 years. His extensive us, along with other staff. I am concerned that should knowledge has earned constant recognition in the something happen to either one of us the business will press, national radio and television, who often seek sufferQ as result – is there anything that can be done to opinion and rely on his company to provide them with protect us? expert market comment and opinion. Citrus Financial Management is a firm of financial advisers based in Kent. David Braithwaite says: There is – and as you rightly point For details call +44 (0)1732 834 834 or alternatively out, many small businesses rely on key people who make visit www.citrusfinancial.com. decisions and run the business as a team. But there are severalA steps you can take to ensure the business will run smoothly should the worst happen. Mark Briegal is head of a specialist division, Ralli Firstly you should consider ‘key person’ insurance. This Partnership Law. The division was set up in 2009 pays out an agreed amount to the business should one in response to an increase in registered LLPs and a of you die, or with certain policies, suffer a named critical demand for specialist partnership law advice. An LLP illness. That way you can make sure that in the event of is a partnership formed under the Limited Liability death the business can afford to hire a replacement, and Partnership Act 2000. It is a half way house between cover any loss of profit as a result. a traditional partnership and a limited company. The Another point worth noting is that if you operate as a members are self employed but the LLP is a legal entity, limited company, should one of the shareholders die, these like a company, and the members have limited liability shares will revert to that person’s estate. So, if for example for business debts. Visit www.rallipartnershiplaw.co.uk there were two individuals who are married running for more details and advice on partnership law. the business, on the death of one director, that person’s shareholding in the business passes to their spouse. This causes complications as then this shareholder has the same rights as the person who died, for example decision making Mark Higgins is a partner at Manchester-based law firm, and voting rights in the company. As the spouse is now a Ralli. The firm was founded in 1973 and over the past shareholder, they would also be entitled to sell their shares, four decades has built up a strong and highly regarded perhaps to a competitor. Any limited company should practice advising individuals and businesses in a wide therefore have a legal agreement in place to ensure that range of specialist areas, ranging from personal injury the shares are relinquished upon death, often in return for a through to commercial and employment law. Visit www. cash sum. These agreements are commonly known as ‘cross rallipartnershiplaw.co.uk for more details and advice on option’ agreements. partnership law. QAny limited company should have a legal agreement in place to ensure that the shares are relinquished upon death, often in return for a cash sum

Perfect partners If you have a question about any aspect of your business, simply write to: Q&A Special, I’ve heard Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) are Craft Focus Magazine, Broseley House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2UL. becoming a popular option when setting up partnerships. Is Alternatively, send your queries to [email protected]. thisQ the case? If so, what type of organisation is it best for?

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Mark Briegal says: As a result of the recession, and suppliers. Unless something is agreed to The Advisory Conciliation and Arbitration there has been an increase in business the contrary, you split the net proceeds 50:50. Service (ACAS) has issued a Code of Practice partnership disputes. Many business owners If you have an LLP you will need to apply to to assist employers and their staff in dealing have now chosen to reduce their personal Companies House to have the partnership with issues of discipline, dismissal and grievance. riskA and opted for LLPs instead of traditional struck off the register. You also still need to Although adherence to the ACAS Code is not partnerships. In the past four years, the number inform suppliers and customers and to divide compulsory, employment tribunals do take it of LLPs in the UK has risen by almost 50% any net proceeds, which a solicitor can assist into account and may impose financial penalties and now stands at more than 37,000, while you with. to a party found to have ignored its provisions. C traditional partnerships have decreased. Historically, LLPs and partnerships were common agreements for professions such Redundancy is a form of as lawyers and accountants. If you are not a dismissal, therefore you must professional and are looking to trade, a limited company is usually the most sensible option. have reasonable grounds on If your business has a small turnover and you which to base a decision want limited liability, an LLP may be best for you. You need your accountant to advise on the tax implications of each. Avoiding unfair dismissal I have to make some redundancies this year. How can I ensure I act lawfully and adhere There is a range of to fair procedures to avoid unfair dismissal mechanisms a solicitor Qclaims? can advise on to help you Mark Higgins says: By not adhering to fair determine the price procedures, you leave yourself wide open to Aattack and are forced to fight tribunal claims on the back foot. To prove a genuine need to make Splitting assets redundancies, you must show you have acted My business partner and I have decided to fairly and reasonably in selecting those you want go our own way. How do we dissolve our to let go. The traditional ‘last in, first out’ method agreement and divide up the assets? is now heavily frowned upon and is vulnerable Q to claims of age discrimination. Mark Briegal says: This depends on whether Redundancy is a form of dismissal, therefore you have a traditional partnership or an you must have reasonable grounds on which LLP, and also on whether not you have a to base a decision. You must have carried out signedA partnership agreement. If you have a a proper procedure, carefully considering what partnership agreement you will need to follow part of the business you will make redundancies what it says in the agreement. from and what candidates will be selected. Your If you are a traditional partnership with no procedure must include proper consultation agreement, you need to agree to either end the with all staff who will be affected, and also business and stop trading, or one of you can buy explain fully how the procedure will work. The the other out. There is a range of mechanisms consultation will also provide an outlet to listen a solicitor can advise on to help you determine to employees’ views. Those who are ultimately the price. In any event you will need cessation selected for redundancy must be offered the accounts and to inform all your customers right of appeal against their dismissal. Acraftfocus 79 actionforcharity Be part of the first Women V Cancer cycle ride raising funds to fight breast, cervical and ovarian cancers women V cancer

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directors’ & ofﬁcers’ liability – know the facts In today’s litigious society, when something goes wrong those affected want to ﬁnd someone to blame – and will use the available law to help them. Company law is becoming increasingly complex, and insurance brokers are continuing to see company directors brought to task over the decisions or actions they have taken. Neil McFarlane of insurance brokers T.H.March & Co Ltd sheds light on the protection available

In law, irrespective of whether or not your the Insolvency Act and Companies Directors businesses. Even when there is no initial company has ‘limited’ status, directors can be Disqualification Act of 1986 come into play. allegation that a director has done anything held personally liable for the decisions they D&O Insurance provides a pool of wrong, having the funds to obtain legal make on behalf of the company. money for the directors to draw on to fund representation at these investigations enables Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance defence and settlement costs and the cost directors to gain the best possible outcome. (D&O) is liability insurance which is payable of legal representation at investigations. In one year to the directors and officers of a company. D&O insurance works two ways to help i) Over 1,500 directors were disqualified for The insurance can cover a range of losses, your business; protecting the individual between 2 and 15 years including cover for damages or defence costs director from financial loss arising from ii) The DTI’s Companies Investigation Branch in the event that an organisation suffers losses claims for negligence or breach of duty looked at almost 5,000 companies as a result of a lawsuit for alleged wrongful in the management of the company, and iii) The HSE issued over 11,000 notices and acts, while acting in their capacity as directors reimbursing the company where it has agreed prosecuted 982 cases. and officers for the organisation. to indemnify the director against such claims. Cover for D&O for small and medium size Claims can be made by employees, enterprises is available at highly realistic and current and former shareholders, customers, Why should you consider buying Directors’ affordable premium levels. suppliers, liquidators or receivers. Whilst and Officers’ Liability Insurance? As with all insurance policies, there are claims can be made from a number of Directors’ personal liabilities are unlimited exclusions to D&O cover which may include: people they can also arise from different and in the course of carrying out everyday i) Bankruptcy/liquidation in the first 180 days organisations, in particular government duties for a company, directors are ii) Deliberate fraudulent or illegal activities agencies. There are several government bodies exposing themselves personally to lawsuits, iii) Circumstances which already exist that can investigate your company including investigations and criminal prosecutions. iv) Your companies professional services DTI’s Companies Investigation Branch, The Without insurance, directors can end up v) Claims in the USA/Canada. C Health & Safety Executive, The Serious Fraud having to re-mortgage their home (or worse), Office and The Disability Rights Commission. just to pay legal fees incurred. Further information These bodies will look into legal undertakings When a director needs to defend lawsuits, T.H. March is a well-established family business as well as legislation. When looking into legal investigations and prosecutions, being able founded in 1887. With offices in London, undertakings a company will be viewed to see to draw on insurance funds to obtain quality Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Sevenoaks if they are performing duties with a reasonable legal support and advice can help achieve the and Yelverton near Plymouth, the company degree of care and skill together with looking best possible outcome. has departments covering household, motor, to see if a company is acting within the There are an increasing number of travel, commercial and scheme insurance. To Memorandum and Articles of Association of government bodies that can investigate a find out more visit www.thmarch.co.uk. the Company. When looking into legislation, company and an increasing focus on smaller

craftfocus 81 choosing a website designer

In the second of his series, expert David Mackley looks at five essential things to know before choosing a website company – so you get it right first time Part 2

Internet shopping method of taking cards such as SagePay or the different sizes needed for the website. in the UK is still a bank like HSBC, then add in the option to This will save many hours of your time. Also a growth area. take payments from PayPal accounts because ask whether you can have ‘zoomable’ images. According to the many people find using PayPal so convenient, These make a difference to how many people voice of e-retail, and have money sitting in their accounts that will end up buying from you because they can the Internet they use on shopping. zoom in to an item and really see the detail of Measurement the materials, texture and finishing. Research Group “Be aware that having a separate Stock control is the classic problem. Retailers (IMRG), growth website to your shop is just like run on small quantities of stock. When the was 21% in 2009, about 10 times that in the last item is sold in the shop, who will tell the high street. The internet has become a part running separate businesses” website that the product is now out of stock? of everyday life now for so many people. According to Forrester 28 million UK TIP: Google Checkout has not yet reached the TIP: Check if there are limitations on the consumers use internet shopping now, and popularity of PayPal so don’t get too precious number of products you can upload. this will grow to 36 million by 2014. over this. But it is worth keeping an eye on it. We have seen in previous articles there TIP: If you have a shop, consider a are certainly opportunities for independents 4. How do you keep the site up to date? multichannel system, rather than just when a strategy appropriate to the business standalone websites. Multichannel systems let has been considered, but finding a website This is essential to consider. Once the website you put products and images on once for your company to help create the right e-commerce goes live, how do you add items on to your shop and your website. These all run from a website can be difficult. I have seen retailers website? How do you manage stock? It is very single stock system. It makes managing both spend many thousands of pounds on below- easy to underestimate how long it takes to shop and website much more efficient, and standard websites that will always struggle to update products on the website, and before can make the difference between success and produce a payback on the time and money long the products are out of date or have no failure for an independent retailer’s website. put into it. So whether refreshing an existing pictures or the prices are wrong. Be aware website or starting a new one, one of the most that having a separate website to your shop is 5. How will the website perform in common questions is: “How do I select the just like running separate businesses. The web search engines? right website design company?” and “where company you choose should talk you through do I start?” how you add and update items. Marketing your website is a big topic and will Following part one in the last issue, which Ask the company how you would manage be covered in future articles. However, it starts outlined the first two points, here are some with choosing the right shopping engine. more to consider, to hopefully help you make A good shopping engine will automatically the right choice first time. “A good system will take any size format your product pages in such a way that image you throw at it and create the search engines like Google can easily read 3. What forms of payment can be used? the different sizes needed for them. If this happens, they are more likely to the website” get good rankings in the search results. Check what forms of payment will be accepted. It is likely the web company will TIP: There is a simple way to check this work with selected providers. Popular ones images. A website will need several sizes of without having to know any technical details. are PayPal, SagePay, HSBC and the emerging image for any one product. A good system will All you do is go to one of the reference sites Google Checkout. I would suggest having one take any size image you throw at it and create given to you by your web design company.

82 craftfocus “A good shopping engine will automatically format your product pages in such a way that the search engines like Google can easily read them” The UK’s leading magazine for the craft industry Select one item they are selling at random and highlight its name. Then copy and paste the name into Google. Now see where that item is ranked. This is not an exact science, so repeat for five randomly selected products. Are they appearing reasonably high up in the rankings? Are other companies higher in the rankings for that same product name? Don’t expect it to always be on page one. As a broad rule of thumb, two or three of the items should appear in the first few pages. Try it with a second website as well. If you are not satisfied, talk to the web company about it before proceeding. C To advertise here telephone Tracy Voice on +44 (0)1376 535 618

David Mackley MBA BSc is MD of Intelligent Retail – providers of Multichannel EPoS and eCommerce websites for independent retailers. If you have any questions you can contact David on +44 (0)845 680 0126 or [email protected]. Cwww.craftfocus.com If you’ve enjoyed reading Craft Focus magazine, why not log onto our website at www.craftfocus.com? Containing up-to-the- minute news, events and special offers, the site is updated regularly with information to help you advance your business. Special Features • Featured Articles Read our regularly updated spotlighted features whenever you wish, covering e-commerce, visual merchandising, trade show previews and much, much more.

• Back Issues Archive If you’re looking for information on a particular subject regarding your business, take a look at our back issues archive. All magazines will be sent out free of charge to qualiﬁed registered readers.

• Media Pack Download our comprehensive online media pack for a features list, advertising rates and speciﬁcations.

Find A Supplier The latest feature on www.craftfocus.com, the supplier directory, allows you to contact advertisers in the magazine for more information about their products or services. Simple to use and available world-wide 24 hours a day, the supplier directory is a reader reply service for the 21st century.

If you would like to ﬁnd out more, log onto www.craftfocus.com

84 craftfocus

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Charity Registration Numbers: British Heart Foundation - 225971; CRY - 1050845; HEART UK - 1003904; Tiny Tickers - 1078114 subscribe why not subscribe? Fill in the form below to receive a regular copy of Craft Focus magazine

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www.craftfocus.com Issue 18 Issue Happy Birthday times a year, Craft Focus contains news on Essex CM8 2UL. Alternatively, photocopy the Craft Focus! industry trends, recent product launches and all form and fax to +44 (0)1376 514 555 or REVIEWS • Craft Hobby + Stitch craft trade events. register online at www.craftfocus.com. International • CHA Winter Show

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craftfocus 87 next issue…

What’s going on in the world of beading

• Making your mark We look into all things stamp-related • Find out more about EPOS

CHA Summer Show preview

• Child’s play Getting kids into crafts

Plus Issue 19 • Expert advice June/July 2010 Available from: 1st June 2010 • Industry news Advertising deadline: 14th May 2010 • Latest products

88 craftfocus

a walk in the park

Raising three young children while setting up a business is no mean feat – but that’s exactly what Karen Lewis did. She tells us about why she started Blueberry Park and what she has learned along the way

Looking after small children and running a and different things,” says Karen. “I have always business are both things which command a loved collecting unusual pieces on holidays, and great deal of attention. Karen Lewis, founder friends and family compliment my taste and of Blueberry Park, has managed to juggle both, the things I make. So that gave me the boost and with great success. to believe I could do it.” While on a break from teaching she The designers are a big part of Blueberry immersed herself in all things craft and soon Park, and Karen did a lot of online research decided she wanted to take it a step further. when she was sourcing them, as well as “I had been passionate about crafting since trawling craft fairs, which she found most I was little,” Karen explains. “I remember my enjoyable. “It was so much fun – just like babysitter teaching me to knit at a young playing,” she recalls. “I am completely obsessed she says. “It turns out the focus has veered age, and my grandma gave me her old Singer with crafts, I feel so privileged to do this as a lot more towards individual crafting than sewing machine, which I loved – I’ve always my job, and finding designers was a joy. I ready-made products. I think the recession been around women who are crafters.” mostly leave them to come up with their own and accompanying focus on money-saving She was eager to showcase handmade work ideas, but occasionally we’ll work together to does have a lot to do with this. Also, people and craft kits, with the help of British designers, come up with something original that will be are more in tune about where things come and set up an online store to offer crafting exclusive to Blueberry Park.” from these days – they tend to shy away from products for those who didn’t have the time or It is important to Karen that Blueberry mass production and look for something more accessibility to visit bricks-and-mortar shops. Park offers something for everyone to enjoy ethical and original.” Blueberry Park was launched in 2007, and – women, men, gifts for children, accessories As for the future – what does Karen think Karen tells us it’s been going well. But what for the home, or simply an inspiring, beautifully it will hold? “Consumer-wise, we have plans gave her the confidence to make a success of boxed craft kit. “I think Blueberry Park offers to start up a Blueberry Park craft club as well this contemporary, new company? “I am often the full package – loads of really interesting as workshops, which we hope will build on told I have a good eye for designing original products which allow people to be creative,” the overall reputation of the company,” Karen she explains. says. “And we are on the cusp of pushing my Starting a business is inevitably a learning own work forward to run alongside the rest curve, and there can be an aspect of of Blueberry Park, meaning we could soon be uncertainty at the beginning. Many retailers offering even more products to retailers.” C prefer to control the development where possible – after all, it can seem a much safer Further information: option – however Karen was happy for her To find out more about Blueberry Park and company to evolve naturally. “Blueberry Park for details about stocking the craft kits, please has grown completely organically – I didn’t call Karen Lewis on +44 (0)7717 310 928, want to be rigid or limited on my journey, and I email [email protected], or visit the never knew which parts would develop most,” website at www.blueberry-park.co.uk.

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