WEST front cover_CRAFT BIZ 04/03/2020 17:19 1

2000 - 2020

MARCH APRIL 2020 ISSUE 146 £3.50

CraftBusinessCRAFTBUSINESS.COM BEST FOR NEWS, COMMENT & BUYING IDEAS FOR RETAILERS JAKAR page_CRAFT BIZ 06/03/2020 14:54 Page 1 MARCH APRIL 2020 ISSUE 146 £3.50

CraftBusinessCRAFTBUSINESS.COM BEST FOR NEWS, COMMENT & BUYING IDEAS FOR CRAFT RETAILERS H+H COLOGNE CANCELLED DUE TO CORONAVIRUS FEARS The world’s biggest trade fair for creative and supplies will relaunch in March 2021

Following intensive estimated that so far, the virus event based on the current consultation and in has infected at least 95,000 recommendation of the agreement with the people worldwide and killed Robert Koch Institute (public participating industry more than 3,200, raising serious health institute in Germany). persuaded us, with a Koelnmesse is continuing its association, Initiative doubts over the suitability “In view of this current heavy heart, to push for a preparations for the following Handarbeit e.V., Koelnmesse of all craft trade shows in background, it is not possible postponement of the trade fair trade fairs as planned. GmbH has decided to the upcoming months. for us to provide a functioning until next spring,” said Hedi As before, it will evaluate postpone the trade show The management team at trade fair as a place to Ehlen, managing director of the recommendations of the h+h cologne 2020 until Koelnmesse who is responsible experience industry highlights initiative at Handarbeit e.V. responsible authorities regarding 26th-28th March 2021. for organising h+h is following and a forum for international As the world’s largest major events for each event This announcement comes the recommendation issued business contacts,” said ordering platform of this type, and make further decisions as the rapidly spreading by the Crisis Team of the City Koelnmesses’ chief operating over 400 , crocheting, after careful consideration. coronavirus continues to cause of Cologne after its meeting o cer Oliver Frese. , and outbreaks around the world, on 4 March 2020. The decision “Worries about potential exhibitors from FOR MORE INFORMATION creating major concerns over was taken against the backdrop quarantining which could over 40 countries and around regarding next CB the health and safety of visitors of a risk assessment carried bring businesses to an 16,000 trade visitors had been year’s show go to and exhibitors to the event. It is out individually for this entire standstill additionally expected at h+h cologne 2020. www.hh-cologne.com

THE KNITTING NETWORK OWNERS WELCOME FORMER SIRDAR CHIEFS TO THE BOARD The Knitting Network owners, TXN Limited, recently announced the appointment of Russell and Emma Morris as shareholders and directors to the board

As prominent fi gures in industry. The team at The the hand knitting industry, Knitting Network have done Russell and Emma bring a a fantastic job over the last wealth of market knowledge couple of years and our and experience to knitting investment recognises the CRAFTER’S COMPANION suppliers The Knitting potential for the business to Network. Former managing continue to develop and grow. WELCOMES FIRST LEAD director and owner of Sirdar, Russell and I are very much Russell served more than 28 looking forward to joining the years with the UK’s biggest board and getting “stuck in” to TV PRESENTER yarn brand until 2018, during add value wherever we can.” Crafter’s Companion is With nine years’ experience in which time he also chaired the Originally founded in 2016, expanding its in-house TV the TV shopping industry, Joe UK Hand Knitting Association The Knitting Network has team with the appointment brings a wealth of expertise between 2005 and 2018. Emma been growing rapidly since of its fi rst lead presenter. to his new position. Crafter’s is a well-known fi gure in the TXN Limited acquired the Joe Remblance has joined Companion currently produces industry, previously holding a business in July 2018. This the team to host the schedule six weekly shows and employs number of senior roles including growth has been driven by of shows on Crafter’s TV. nine craft experts to present commercial director of Coats directors Steve Hollis, Adrian Joe’s role will involve guiding product launches, inspirational UK and sales director of Booker and Amy Last, who his craft expert co-stars projects, demonstrations, Sirdar. She has over 15 years’ between them have extensive and viewers through the giveaways and special live o ers. experience in the sector. knowledge of the industry and programme, driving the social To catch up on the latest Emma said: ”We’re delighted its consumers. Go to www. conversation and interacting episodes go to www. to be back in the hand knitting theknittingnetwork.co.uk with the audience live on air. crafterscompanion.co.uk 4 WELCOME

EDITOR’S LETTER Contents Spring is in the air, and CRAFT INDUSTRY TOP USE CREATIVITY TO with new beginnings NEWS TRENDS: HAND SPARK CHILDREN’S come plenty of 5 The latest products, insights and 22 LETTERING 31 CURIOSITY AND opportunities to take statistics to be released in the Author and artist Cindy CONFIDENCE your business to new world of crafts Guentert-Baldo explains the The founder of The Creation heights. A great way to THE CRAFT BUSINESS reasons behind this technique’s Station and multi-award-winning be inspired is to look to AWARDS 2020 relentless popularity entrepreneur is gunning for crafting gold with her Guinness the best and brightest 10 The winners of the Craft THE HOTTEST World Records brands in the industry, and Business Awards announced! STATIONERY PRODUCTS the winners of The Craft Plus comments from our 23 Take inspiration from these CASH IN ON Business Awards 2020 will star-studded panel of judges irresistible products that Tap into the success of this show who are the ones to including Julie Peasgood, Sarah have taken the stationery 32 popular craft with industry ideas watch this year. You can Cressall and Debbie Bliss MBE. world by storm from author Emma Varnam fi nd the full list of winners KEEP IT CLOSE TO JAKAR ON THE ROAD on page 10. HOME INTERNATIONAL: Unleash the money-making Myself and the rest of 17 Jo Bray, managing director of 24 CELEBRATING 70 34 potential of crafting getaways the Craft Business team sales and marketing of West YEARS OF SUCCESS that will take your business to are excited to attend the Design explains the value Managing director of Jakar new heights London Stationery Show of local in a International Ltd. Paul Sacki BOOKSHELF from Tuesday 21st to globalised market reveals how his fl ourishing arts The latest craft titles that will Wednesday 22nd April, and crafts business has stood the THE LATEST 36 inspire and guide potential which celebrates its 10th test of time PRODUCTS FROM customers anniversary this year. 19 UK FRISK ESSENTIALS HOW TO BUILD A Stationery’s popularity Delve into the newest and most A NEW PLAYER LOYAL CUSTOMER BASE shows no sign of slowing exciting stationery from one of 25 ON THE BLOCK Managing director Daniel down, so don’t miss out the biggest UK suppliers Sam Kemp, sales director at 37 Newhouse provides a masterclass on this valuable chance to Artcoe, talks to us about the THE LONDON on business expansion with learn about key trends that key products his company will STATIONERY SHOW Hunkydory’s dynamic marketing will appeal to this insatiable be focusing on at The London Maximise your business strategy 20 Stationery Show type of crafter. To highlight opportunities at this extensive HOW TO BUILD all the wonderful elements trade show for the UK’s biggest THE TOP 20 MOST of creative stationery, a YOUR BRAND retailers, infl uential buyers and INFLUENTIAL THROUGH large part of this issue is brands 38 26 WOMEN IN CRAFT SOCIAL MEDIA dedicated to all elements Key female fi gures in the industry, RICO DESIGN’S Owner of Crafter’s Companion that make up this sector. from successful entrepreneurs to NATURE MATTERS and businesswoman Sara Davies Discover an insightful fl ourishing artists 21 COLLECTION explains why all companies preview of what you can Organic structures, beautiful KNITTING AND should prioritise their online expect from the London textures, natural colours and a CROCHET NEWS presence Stationery show (page diversity of fl ower – all 30 Latest product releases and 20), our collection of the SHOW FOCUS: these elements come together sta changes from the world of CREATIVEWORLD 2020 hottest stationery products in an utterly inspiring medley knitting and crochet Discover all the key fi ndings (page 23), an interview with 39 from the world’s biggest and artist and author Cindy most important trade fair for Guentert-Baldo (page 22) the DIY craft sector and so much more! To give you ideas for your next business move, this month’s Top 20 Series is focused on the most infl uential women in craft (page 26). This star-studded collection of female artists, entrepreneurs, buyers and 20 39 more showcases what a booming industry craft truly is.

I hope you enjoy this issue!

EMILY PEAGRAM Editor CB [email protected] 19 10 26

WEST DESIGN front cover_CRAFT BIZ 04/03/2020 17:19 Page 1

2000 - 2020

MARCH APRIL 2020 ISSUE 146 £3.50

CraftBusinessCRAFTBUSINESS.COM DOING THE BUSINESS… BEST FOR NEWS, COMMENT & BUYING IDEAS FOR CRAFT RETAILERS EDITOR ADVERTISING MANAGER HEAD OF EDITORIAL: CRAFT PUBLISHED BY: DISCLAIMER:The views expressed in this Emily Peagram Danielle Harris Lynn Martin Aceville Publications Ltd publication are not necessarily those of the 01206 508623 01206 505954 21-23 Phoenix Court, publishers. Every e ort is made to ensure the [email protected] [email protected] THE BAR RATE Hawkins Road, veracity and integrity of the companies, persons, UK £28.00 Colchester, products and services mentioned in ADVERTISING DIRECTOR ACCOUNTS Overseas €40.00 Essex, this publication, and details given are believed to be Owen Cook Anne-Marie Hartley CO2 8JY accurate at the time of going to press. 01206 505939 01206 505902 DESIGN: However no responsibility or liability whatsoever [email protected] MS Typesetting and Design ©Aceville Publications Ltd can be accepted for any consequence or PUBLISHING DIRECTOR repercussion of responding to any information or Helen Tudor Printed in advice given or inferred.

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 5

Fearne Cotton and the Prince’s Trust Launch the Great Create

Fearne Cotton and The and share what’s on your mind after our mental health and Prince’s Trust have teamed up – all of which is made easier encouraging wellbeing are to launch The Great Create; when you’ve got a creative arguably more important than a new fundraising initiative activity to get stuck into. ever, we are extremely excited supported by . “You don’t need any at the possibility of helping a Together with Fearne Cotton experience in arts or crafts to generation of young people and her Happy Place initiative, get involved and we’ve got to gain confi dence, manage youth charity The Prince’s loads of resources to help you their feelings of anxiousness Trust is asking everyone to plan your party – if you visit the and become happier. host their own Great Create Great Create website you’ll fi nd “Growing up and trying parties during the month of plenty there to get you started.” to discover your identity in a March. The idea is to spend From upcycling T-shirts time where social media, fake time with friends, family and to painting plant pots, news and reality TV dominate, colleagues and have a go at Great Create hosts can take isn’t easy, even for adults, making something together, to inspiration from a range of and the anxieties that come discover how good it feels to step-by-step activity packs with that can be crippling. get creative while raising vital or come up with their own “With CHILDWISE research funds to help young people ideas for making something showing that children’s biggest improve their mental wellbeing. amazing. The downloadable fear is being bullied both Fearne said: “By hosting packs have been personally on and o ine, we want to a Great Create party with all curated by Fearne and written demonstrate the positive e ect your favourite people, you can by young people who have that creativity can have on enjoy the benefi ts of spending been supported by The Trust. wellbeing and reducing feelings time being creative together; The money raised through of unhappiness and symptoms helping your own wellbeing The Great Create will fund the of anxiety and depression.” while also raising funds to help charity’s courses that support the wellbeing of young people. young people’s wellbeing. VISIT “The Great Create is all about Philip Wesolowski, Managing www.thegreatcreate.co.uk giving yourself, and your friends, Director at STAEDTLER UK, CB to sign up and fi nd the time and space to talk, laugh says: “In a world where looking out more.

Award-Winning Emily Brooks Launches Stationery & Gift Collection

Award-winning British Wild Thoughts , designer and illustrator magnetic Memo Pads, the Emily Brooks has launched Keep on Rolling Weekly a playful stationery and Planner and the lovely Llama giftware collection for Year Planner, all sure to keep SS20, consisting of 31 your 2020 goals in check! new items. The brand new Fun accessories for travels range is full to the brim with include the colourful Luggage sassy phrases and bold and Tags, the luxury magnetic colourful illustrations that Lips Pocket Mirror, Snack will brighten any home or Pots and a Travel Wallet, handbag and add a smile a Foldable Shopper, Card to people’s lives. The fun Holder and Passport Case. and bright, mix and match For eco-friendly hot or cold illustrations adorning popular drinks, opt for the travel stationery and giftware mug, made from sustainably items include roller skates, sourced bamboo fi bre or the sunglasses and neon signs, with fi nishes including gold stainless steel water bottle, toucans, fl amingos, tigers, lips foil detailing, playful pom that keeps liquid hot or cold RICO DESIGN and a thumbs up, all with the poms or soft faux leather. for up to 12 hours. The full LAUNCHES NEW signature Emily Brooks pop Also including the collection collection is now available of colour and complemented are Sticky Memo Notes, the at www.emilybrooks.uk EMBROIDERY KITS Together with the popular fabric. Both of the designs were DIY blogger Miriam Polak created with great attention from the Instagram to detail in order to inspire account @slow_evenings_ your customers to embroider. embroidery, Rico Design has The kits contain an instruction announced the launch of two sheet, a piece of fabric, stranded lovely embroidery kits: “Plant cotton, an embroidery hoop and Lady” and “Botanical”. Stem an embroidery needle. Plastic- stitch, satin stitch, french knots free packaging has also been and woven stitch are beautifully selected. RRP for both kits is £24. combined on plain cotton fabrics in pink and light blue. The instructions include the FOR MORE DETAILS design in original size so it can www.rico-design.de/en CB easily be transferred onto the

www.craftbusiness.com 6 NEWS

CRAFT BUDDY RELEASES NEW CRYSTAL ART NOTEBOOK KITS

Following unprecedented our popular Crystal Art such as Giant Crystal Art demand, leading arts and range, to meet strong global Kits, , crafts manufacturer Craft demand. These notebook Sticker Sets and Frameables, Buddy Ltd have expanded designs are the start of a wider a series designed especially their creative Crystal Art range of formats to come. for children aged 6-8.” range into the ever-popular The Crystal Art brand has a For more information on the stationery market, mixing wide following across all age new Crystal Art notebooks or crafts with notebooks. groups, and we are working any of Craft Buddy’s di erent Making use of the same hard to provide exciting new ranges and merchandising on-trend “diamond painting” designs and formats for them. solutions contact technique from the popular This year has already seen [email protected] or Crystal Art kits, Craft Buddy’s the launch of new concepts visit www.craftbuddyltd.co.uk brand-new range of Crystal Art Notebook Kits allow crafters to create their very own sparkling notebook designs. Simply lift the crystals using the magic included and place them on their assigned lettered dot and they a x instantly. With four beautiful new designs to choose from including unicorns, loveable kittens, a colourful skull and a gorgeous fantasy scene Easter Arrives at Hobbycraft featuring owls and features Hobbycraft has recently has created an array of Easter created by renowned artist launched its fun, colourful designs using yarn. A wide Lisa Parker, the 26 x 18cm and creative Easter range for range of spring design ideas sized notebooks are perfect 2020. The amazing range of and inspiration can be found for everyday use. Featuring table and home decorations, on the Hobbycraft Ideas Hub. 50 lined pages and a budget Easter trees, kids’ bonnets and friendly RRP of £9.99, these are personalised Easter cards are sure to be a winner at retail. more will certainly appeal to Gary Wadhwani, co-director crafters who are looking to go FOR MORE DETAILS at Craft Buddy Ltd. said: all out this spring. For those CB To view the full Easter “We have been looking at a looking to take up crochet or range go to number of ways to diversify macramé, the Knitcraft team www.hobbycraft.co.uk

Visit Ltd at the SPECIALIST CRAFTS SECURES FUNDING London Stationery Show FOR FURTHER EXPANSION Established over 20 years ago, Envelopes has grown Specialist Crafts Ltd are from a small family run renowned for being the company to one stocking UK’s largest mail order what we believe is the supplier of art, craft world’s largest range of and design materials to envelopes and postal educational establishments packaging. in the UK, selling in We have made strides excess of 28,000 products towards being a greener from three locations. company, adjusting as many With continuity and products as we can to be more available on a wide range succession in mind the eco-friendly. Envelopes has of products. company looked to its introduced a range of We are proud to announce experienced management “Envirolopes” which houses its that we are going to be at the team to continue building plastic-free flagship products London Stationery Show on this international company, such as Flutelopes – a fully the 21st and 22nd of April at and on 21st February 2020 recyclable alternative to the Business Design Centre, sold 75% of their shares to traditional bubble bags, find us on stand number a Management Buy Out. Combelopes, which are single G206. We will be showcasing David Edwards, previously Crafts is so strong that when The company now plans or double padded our eco-friendly products and operations director, has served the time came, we simply to expand into Northern mailing bags and Boardlopes, you will have the chance to the company for over 14 would not have sold the America and is working to our white corrugated all board chat with a member of our years and takes over the role business to anyone else!” secure strong partnerships in envelopes with easy peel and team who will be happy to of managing director, leaving David Edwards said: the USA and Canada, as well seal tear strip. help with any enquiries you Nick Beavon as director of “Working at Specialist Crafts as increase its brand growth As a company, Envelopes may have. Come say hi and sales and marketing and has allowed me to grow and in the UK, Europe and Asia. Ltd is customer-centric, grab your free goodie bag! Nick’s wife Angela will really appreciate owner- providing all products continue as fi nance director. manager lead businesses. completely unbranded. With FOR MORE DETAILS Nick Beavon commented: I will continue to mentor our onsite digital and litho Email “My passion is sales and the people in our wonderful CB facilities, personalised [email protected] marketing. It was an business and with my passion FOR MORE DETAILS options and overprinting are call 01628 810 000. easy decision really, the for technology, I hope to build on Go to leadership team at Specialist incredibly good foundations.” CB www.specialistcrafts.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 7 Hobbycraft Named as One of the Top Five Best Places to by Sunday Times

Hobbycraft, the UK’s leading introduced a new colleague truly is fantastic to know that arts and crafts retailer, is initiative, the ‘Hobbycraft our colleagues are proud to delighted to announce it ’. The Artisans work for Hobbycraft and we has been named as one are colleagues thinking recognise their contribution of the UK’s top 25 best of turning their expertise to the business. It is their companies to work for. in crafting into a small hard work that continues The retailer was revealed business and Hobbycraft is to ensure that Hobbycraft as the fi fth best place to work the enabling force behind is the success it is today.” at The Sunday Times 25 Best these entrepreneurial Best companies founder Big Companies 2020 awards passion projects. Artisans and CEO, Jonathan Austin, ceremony on Thursday are given the opportunity to says: “I would like to 20th February. The award is pursue their goals through congratulate Hobbycraft based on feedback from the developing exclusive ranges on achieving a Two Star company’s employees, through and hosting workshops Accreditation and being a detailed questionnaire about to celebrate their brand. named as one of the UK’s ARENA TRAVEL LAUNCH TWO workplace engagement, Chris Fenlon, retail Best Companies to Work for. NEW UK EMBROIDERY RETREATS leadership, sta wellbeing, & people director at Best Companies has been development opportunities, Hobbycraft says: “We’re acknowledging excellence Following the success of and thorough preparation to company culture and values. delighted to be named in the workplace since 2006 travel company Arenal achieve a beautiful end product, The fi ndings revealed in the top fi ve Best Big when we launched our Travel’s popular Craft so we will start with design that colleagues believe that Companies To Work For Michelin style accreditation Sanctuary retreats in 2019, – a colour drawing, a shaded they could make a valuable by The Sunday Times. standard. We are proud to the business has announced drawing, a stitch direction contribution to the success This award is recognition work with organisations like another two embroidery and an order of work. Moving of the organisation, and of our great culture, the Hobbycraft who focus on retreats coming up in 2020. on we will work on several that Hobbycraft is a fun and many initiatives we have in their people and as such With an autumn or winter trip samples before stitching the enjoyable place to work. There place and dedication as an have been rewarded with to choose from, each long actual viola. You will leave the was an overall consensus that employer to ensure a happy an engaged workforce who weekend will include everything class with an understanding of Hobbycraft is a positive place and valued workplace. tell us that they’re a great crafters love about these silk shading and will be ready to work, with recognition of “Ultimately, our colleagues company to work for.” experiences, including two full to tackle your own projects." Hobbycraft’s dedication to are here to support The full list of the Best days of embroidery Regarding her own supporting personal mental our customers on their 25 Big Companies 2020 workshops, project weekend trip, crafter health of all colleagues. crafting journey, and we’re is available www.b.co.uk kits included in Jessica Aldred The news comes as dedicated to supporting our For more information visit the price and said: "My project Hobbycraft has recently colleagues in doing so. It www.hobbycraft.co.uk two nights is inspired by full board a fl oor accommodation at the Sheikh in a UK based Zayed Grand hotel. Experts Sara Mosque in Abu Dennis and Jessica Dhabi. Goldwork Aldred will be on hand to is the term used for all provide guidance and fun metal thread embroidery, a throughout the weekends. sumptuous technique which Sara Dennis said: "During was once reserved for royalty. my retreat you will learn all In this class you will learn about silk shading and how to basic padding, silk shading, STAMP ADDICTS 1.4 5 COL_CRAFT BIZ 03/03/2020 15:00 Page 1 blend colours within a needle. couching with coloured thread Sometimes known as painting and whipped stem stitch." with needles, silk shading Prices from £359, go to requires a sense of colour www.arenatravel.com

www.craftbusiness.com 8 NEWS

OHH DEER MAKES SUSTAINABLE SWITCH Greeting card and stationery company Ohh Deer now sources all its paper products from FSC or recycled materials. Having already taken steps to remove all plastic packaging from their greeting cards, the company has sought to diminish its environmental impacts even further through ethical and responsible material sourcing. Co-founder and managing director Mark Callaby said: “Like every brand, we have NEW PRODUCTS a responsibility to reduce the amount of waste and FROM WOW e ect we personally have on the environment. EMBOSSING “Acting on this, we looked New designers are now working towards our core product, with WOW Embossing, and with greeting cards, and now only this comes brand new products. source them from FSC-certifi ed Introducing eight Trios from or recycled materials. And Metallics to Sparkly for a mixed the same can be said for the material is always the best media artist’s dream. Plus, six rest of our paper goods, too. option for the environment new Sparkles, these products “We now also only use because that’s the idea are absolutely gorgeous on their plastic-free packaging for being perpetuated. own or used with the Melt-It all our greeting cards and “However, after a little and poured into moulds. The are switching to bio-cello digging, you realise recycled company has also just launched alternatives across our paper isn’t sustainable on Seth Apter's Mixed Media brush products where possible.” its own. New paper has to that has got the craft market Any product that’s FSC- be made to keep the cycle talking. It can be used to create certifi ed means it has going and the only eco- dimensional and uneven looks WOW 1.8 3 COL_CRAFT BIZ 03/03/2020 15:01been Pagesourced 1 from a well- friendly source of this comes or neatly to create an even managed forest that’s carefully from FSC-certifi ed forests. surface for embossing. Along maintained to avoid having “That’s why we only with all the other available, any lasting negative impacts source our paper products there's lots to fi ll your shelves on the environment. from a mix of FSC-certifi ed machine specifi cally for and get those sales rolling in. Co-founder and creative or recycled material. recycling the Trios – RRP £8.25, Sparkles director of Ohh Deer Jamie “Another small step we’ve we receive in deliveries for TO FIND OUT MORE – RRP £3, Mixed Media Brush Mitchell said: “Originally like taken towards sustainability use as packing material in CB Go to – RRP £4.99 most, we assumed recycled is through investing in a our future shipments.” www.ohhdeer.com www.wowembossingpowder.co.uk

CRAFTER’S COMPANION RELEASES PRODUCT PROMOTION LAYERING KALEIDOSCOPE SHESTO Papercraft and needlecraft love. The sets can be used in Shesto is one of the UK’s leading distributors of craft tools retailer Crafter’s a variety of projects including and lighting supplies, selling a huge range of tools and Companion has recently cards, gifts, home décor and accessories for art and design, airbrushing, making, launched their new more with a multitude of papercraft, , stitching, house, model Layering Kaleidoscope mediums. The Spectrum Noir building, cake decorating and more. The newly launched Sets that can Harmony Harmony Quick Dry website o ers an easy user experience, set up a trade account be used in a variety of Pads will help to create a and log in to see our full range including trade pricing and creative applications. crisp, fi nished look, and are quantity discounts in just 24 hours. Register for a trade Each set includes three layered design. They can also also available from Crafter’s account today and save an additional 10% on your fi rst order! individual 5”x7” stencils and be used separately or in a Companion. RRP £7.99 each, For further information about Shesto’s complete product range when used in a sequence, the di erent sequence to create for trade enquiries go to visit www.shestotrade.com the products create a fabulous multiple e ects that crafters will www.crafterscompanion.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 9

PRODUCT PROMOTION JANE CROWFOOT LAUNCHES CRYSTAL ART EXCITING NEW CAL WITH STYLECRAFT Craft Buddy’s brand new supersized Giant Card Kits, Stylecraft is delighted measuring 29 x 21cm (as to announce the launch compared with 18 x 18cm on The Fruit Garden CAL, a their standard Crystal Art Card project designed Kits), are now available, and by Jane Crowfoot. include four fabulous launch Following the success of designs: a vibrant blue “Sports Jane’s Climbing Rose CAL in Car”, a cat resting in “Lily’s Pond”, “Unicorn Rainbow” and the 2019, based on fabric designs by much-anticipated “Spell Keeper Owl” from their new Lisa Parker British designer, William licensed range. Maintaining a pocket-friendly price point of Morris, she has designed £7.99 retail, the Giant Cards are made using the phenomenally another project using the popular Crystal Art technique (also known as “Diamond as Painting”), and include everything needed to make beautiful inspiration. Jane commented: pieces of rhinestone art, perfect for gifting to loved ones. “As part of my research for the Climbing Rose CAL I visited galleries and Arts and Crafts houses, and it was during a visit to Kelmscott Manor, that FOREVER FLOWERZ I realised I wanted to base a CAL design on the incredible Forever Flowerz, the D.I.Y. fl ower-making of William range from Craft Buddy, allows crafters to Morris’s daughter May.” make their own stunning fl oral displays! The Fruit Garden CAL With Carnations, Chrysanthemums, is based on The Melsetter Camellias, Roses, Peonies and Begonias Hangings, embroideries to choose from, the fl owers are that were designed by May made from polyester meaning the somewhere between 1890 opportunities are endless. The sets and 1900. The hangings include everything needed to make feature birds, fl owers, plants timeless wreaths, extravagant garlands and central fruit trees on and stunning bouquets, and for the more experienced crafters an embroidered trellis the possibilities are endless for mixed media, card making and background and are beautifully scrapbooking with the range of metal dies, stamps and . imagined and executed. Contact [email protected] or go to This CAL with Stylecraft www.craftbuddyltd.co.uk has taken Jane more than 5 and progress to more di cult design evolves,” says Annabelle months to design and o ers ones, all supported by Jane’s Hill, Stylecraft’s Sales and crocheters a feast of techniques step-by-step photo tutorials. Marketing Director. “Crocheters THE TEXTILES AWARD which begin with easy motifs There are two colourways are going to love working available; the original features on this project and how 2020 OPENS FOR ENTRIES Stylecraft Life DK partnered the blanket comes together REALLY MARIA 1.8 3 col_CRAFT BIZ 05/03/2020 09:51 Page 1 with ; the second into a tableau of motifs.” Entries are now open for standing alone as visual art colourway uses brand new The Fruit Garden CAL will The Fine Art Textiles Award and be rooted within the Naturals Bamboo+Cotton, be available from the Stylecraft 2020. Now in its second year, medium of textiles, with cloth launched by Stylecraft in website as a free download in the international juried and thread used as the pivotal March 2020, and developed eight parts in English, US and competition recognises the materials/media. Entries must in response to consumers Dutch versions. Colour packs place of textiles amongst refl ect the artist’s inspiration, asking for more natural fi bre for both options will be on sale fi ne art, and is open to all source, concept or idea, with yarns from the brand. in store and online by 30th amateur and practising a fully resolved composition. “We have worked closely March in preparation for the textile artists. The competition Competition judges have with Jane before on such CAL to begin on 28th April. attracted 150 entries last year, included acclaimed textile successful CALs as The Lily and UK artist Ann Goddard experts, educators and artists Pond and Frida’s Flowers, so we scooped the Award for On Diana Harrison, Jan Beaney, are very excited to be joining the Brink, a 3D hanging Jean Littlejohn, June Hill, forces again. It is always such FOR MORE DETAILS made from bark cloth, sticks, Alice Kettle and Lesley Millar. a thrill to get an insight into Go to CB entomology pins and wire. Shortlisted entries will be how she creates and how a www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk Work presented for The exhibited in a dedicated gallery Fine Art Textiles Award 2020 at The Festival of Quilts at the must be considered to be fi ne NEC Birmingham from 30th 15 Lordship Lane, East Dulwich, London SE22 8EW art and worthy of premium July-2nd August and at the gallery space. It must transcend Textile Galleries at The Knitting ✶ 02035 810909 its craft or making process, & Stitching Show in London ✶ email: [email protected] and Harrogate this autumn. This colourful shop in East Dulwich, London, has £5,000 in prize money will be just won Best Independent Retailer awarded to the winner at the in the Craft Business Awards 2o2o. Festival’s Awards Ceremony The store is a wonderful place to restock on top on Thursday 30th July. brands including James C. Brett, Stylecraft and King Cole, and while you’re there, FOR MORE DETAILS don’t forget to explore the Award entry information brilliant range of haberdashery, CB can be found on kits and fabric. The Festival of Quilts website at: www.thefestivalofquilts.co.uk. The deadline for entries www.reallymaria.com is 27th April 2020.

www.craftbusiness.com 10 AWARDS

THE CRAFT BUSINESS AWARDS 2020: Craft BUSINESS AWARDS THE RESULTS ARE IN! 2020 We celebrate the best and brightest brands in the craft industry with this year’s greatly anticipated awards verdict!

The Craft Business Awards ceremony was held on Monday 17th February at the CHSI Stitches show, after a successful weekend at this highly anticipated event. Craft brands and businesses from across the UK and beyond joined us for a wonderful celebration of the industry’s finest figures. Judges Julie Peasgood, Sarah Cressall and Debbie Bliss MBE were also in attendance, and presented the winners of their categories with trophies and certificates. The awards, organised by Craft Business magazine, are the biggest and most well-respected in the craft industry. They celebrate everyone from small start-ups to giants of papercraft, knitting, stitching, haberdashery, beading, jewellery and creative stationery. The six Elite categories included Best Emerging Product and Champion Brand, which were judged by our star-studded panel of judges. After months of collecting the verdicts from Craft Business readers’ nominations and votes, as well as the decisions from this year’s esteemed judges of our Elite categories, the results are officially in. We are thrilled to announce the winners and highly commended brands of the Craft Business Awards 2020! KEY TAKE OUTS FROM CHSI STITCHES 2020 THE CRAFT REPORT online, 47% use social media demonstrating a commitment bags. The response from the world. New features for 2020 The 2020 Craft Report focused for inspiration and more to sustainable crafting. visitors has been great.” included a Creative Dragons on consumer and social than 4 in 5 are concerned Steffi Stern, director of area giving entrepreneurs change and its impact on about sustainability, plastic The Makerss, says, “At CHSI NEW FEATURES the chance to pitch new audience growth. The Craft waste and over packaging. this year we are showcasing The 3-day trade event featured ideas to a panel of industry Report research, commissioned the environmentally friendly a catwalk show, Trending Now experts and the Business by ICHF, is gathered via SUSTAINABLE packaging of our needle showcase and a dedicated Hub, in association with the qualitative interviews and focus CRAFTING felting kits. We have cut back Bright Sparks area for the Creative Industry Association, groups as well as quantitative Echoing findings in the craft on plastic using compostable newest designers as well as providing visitors with a questionnaires, with a combined report, CHSI Stitches 2020 felting mats, cardboard workshops, presentations and free, private and confidential sample in excess of 3,000 show saw major brands recyclable and paper industry exhibitors from across business consultation. dedicated crafters in the UK. Linda Jones of Linda Jones & Associates, Research Specialists explains, “This year The Craft Report research shows that although there has been a 9% downturn in consumer spending over the last year, the crafting audience has grown by half a million crafters over the past 3 years, and now includes as many under 35s as over 65s (30%). It’s likely that this market hasn’t reached saturation point yet, as craft is increasingly becoming more socially desirable, medically endorsed and community based.” The report suggests that the key to future success for retailers lies in adapting to this new reality, where over 80% now shop for supplies

www.craftbusiness.com AWARDS 11

Craft CRAFT BUSINESS AWARDS 2020 BUSINESS Best Support & Service Best Creative Stationery Best British Brand AWARDS Altenew Manufacturer/Supplier/Distributor Liberty Fabrics 2020 Hunkydory Crafts Staedtler Tattered West Yorkshire Spinners Lavinia Stamps Best E-tailer Best Chain Craft Shop Creative Craft Supplies Best Beading & Jewellery Hobbycraft Sew Essential Manufacturer/Supplier/Distributor Crafter’s Companion The Wool Factory Swarovski The Range Creative Beadcraft Best Trade Website Beadalon Best Social Media Craft Consortium The Hedgehog Hollow Search Press Best Papercraft The Cotton Patch Groves Manufacturer/Supplier/Distributor Sew Over It Crafter’s Companion Best European Brand Hunkydory Crafts Best Craft Publisher STABILO Altenew Search Press Novita Pavilion Best Stitching & Haberdashery Mettler Quadrille Manufacturer/Supplier/Distributor Best American Brand Hawthorn Handmade Best Sustainable Craft Company Altenew Madeira Novita Lion Brand Yarn Groves The Crafty Kit Company Michael Miller Fabrics Best Knitting The New Craft House Craft Influencer of the Year Manufacturer/Supplier/Distributor Janie Crow West Yorkshire Spinners Debbie Shore Lion Brand Yarn The Crafty Gentleman Novita ELITE INDUSTRY WINNERS Champion Brand KnitPro Madeira Search Press Best Overall Product Cool Crafting for Luna Lapin and Friends KnitPro Craft Marabu Kit BUSINESS Best Independent Retailer ELITE INDUSTRY Really Maria AWARDS The Knitting Corner 2020 Create Best Craft Book Knitted Animal Friends by Louise Crowther Crocheted Wreaths and Best Emerging Product Best Small Business Garlands by Kate Eastwood Craft Chest Resin8 Craft Supplies Limited How To Sew Little Colour Lab DK - West Yorkshire Spinners Coolcrafting - Home of Luna Lapin Animals by Sue Quinn STABILO Pen 68 brush Sew Confident

STOCK SHOT PROMOTION REALLY MARIA PRODUCT PROMOTION Really Maria is the most vibrant, colourful Dulwich and also offers craft workshops for award winning shop full of over 1,000 sewing, , beading, knitting, crochet, beautiful cotton fabrics used for quilting, soft making, bags and Maria’s Big Mama dressmaking, soft furnishings, toys, costumes, pouffes. Maria opened her independent, cushions, bags and more. We also specialize retail haberdashery shop in August 2016 in in gorgeous yarn/wool from all around the South East London’s increasingly popular world for knitting and crochet. We take pride and trendy Lordship Lane. She is an artist, in having the largest selection of haberdashery adult education tutor, OFSTED trained peer including pom pom trimmings, lace, ribbons, inspector, freelance magazine illustrator, , embroidery and sewing threads and writer and designer. To find out more about much more. Really Maria is located in East her work go to www.reallymaria.com

www.artcoe.co.uk | [email protected] | 0845 300 7750

www.craftbusiness.com 12 AWARDS COMMENTS FROM THE JUDGES

Julie Peasgood Debbie Bliss MBE Anthea Turner Sarah Cressall James Fell

RESIN8 CRAFT SUPPLIES community of crafters following them. of Louise’s friends sitting in my home training staff demonstrates that the “Resin8 is an inspiring and innovative I fell in love with them myself, the would make me smile every day.” business owner is invested in the business. Their eco credentials are woodland creatures are beautifully Anthea Turner future of the business, as well as the excellent, in terms of both sourcing designed and have a fantastic stylish Television Presenter development of employee skills.” their supplies and recycling packaging. wardrobe that would be the envy James Fell I enjoyed reading their pitch which is of any fashionista. I was particularly KNITPRO Head of Content for Global well written, honest and humorous. impressed by the attention to detail “I love KnitPro for many reasons, Franchise and What Franchise Their passion and enthusiasm shines on the clothes and there are even but I chose them as my winner through, especially their commitment instructions for an armchair should because of the way they support SEW CONFIDENT to creating happy customers (as they Luna need to put her feet up. The women and the community where “The UK’s only sewing tuition franchise, obviously do, judging by the wealth of sewing patterns in the accompanying their factory is based in India.” Sew Confident is trendsetting, glowing feedback they have received). are simple and easy to follow.” Sarah Cressall dynamic and bold. I admire the vision I have never worked with before, Debbie Bliss MBE The Creation Station Founder of founder Jenny, and her drive and but I am now superkeen to experiment. Knitwear Designer and Sponsor of the Craft determination to create her business Their workshops sound welcoming and Business Awards 2020 is inspirational. I would happily sign supportive, and the website is attractive, KNITTED ANIMAL FRIENDS up for a Sew Confident Retreat in friendly and easy to navigate. An exciting, BY LOUISE CROWTHER REALLY MARIA the ‘gorgeous, Scottish middle of ethical and outstanding company, in “This was a hard decision, but I was “An impressive growth and success nowhere’ and their website is fun, my opinion they are worthy winners.” totally drawn to my winner, Louise story of an independent business well designed and user friendly.” Julie Peasgood Crowther’s Knitted Animal Friends. that shows that flourishing in a Julie Peasgood Renowned Actress, Presenter Louise has created real characters tricky retail climate is achievable. A Renowned Actress, Presenter and Contributing Editor for which look cool, fun and robust. truly entrepreneurial spirit was very and Contributing Editor for Cruise International magazine Expert knitters will romp through this apparent, especially with the launch Cruise International magazine book and less practiced will love the of the shops' range of own-branded LUNA LAPIN AND FRIENDS clear instructions and the satisfaction items, among other initiatives. To request a copy of the press pack BY COOL CRAFTING of creating something memorable. Efforts to give back to the local containing all the details of the “I am not surprised to learn that Obviously children will love them, community was very commendable, Craft Business Awards 2020, please Luna Lapin and Friends have a whole but if you are a big kid like me, one and an investment in upskilling and email [email protected] KNITPRO Winner of the Champion Brand and Highly Commended in the Best Overall Product Category

How will you use your success audience and this will boost the like the product, we are able to in the Craft Business Awards understanding of our brand.” offer them needles and hooks 2020 to boost your business? for all of their projects. Some “We greatly respect your What products are you consumers like to use different magazine and it’s readers, and predicting to be big sellers ranges for different projects, and being involved in your awards for you this year? we are able to accommodate has been a great honour. “Zing and Symfonie continue them as well. Quality is also Winning the Champion Brand to be very popular around imperative to every product award has allowed us to bring the world but the Smart that leaves our factory. The our story and ethos to a larger Stix and Ginger brands are consistency of our brand certainly gaining fans.” gives them peace of mind.”

How do you make sure that Do you have any new product your customers receive a ranges in the pipeline? professional service when “We certainly do have some they buy with KnitPro? very innovative products in “We are very proud of the the pipeline, which we plan to quality of our products and introduce in coming months. this pride is carried through We are sure that the knitting to the staff we employ, as community will love them.” well as our distributors and marketing teams throughout the world. Our needles and hooks have a lifetime guarantee and that gives consumers faith in our products.”

What are your tips for creating a loyal customer base? “Having products that are available in ranges encourages return customers. If they try one of our ranges and they

www.craftbusiness.com AWARDS 13

PAVILION WEST YORKSHIRE SPINNERS Highly Commended in the Best Craft Winner of Best Knitting Manufacturer/Supplier/Distributor Book Publisher Category Highly Commended in Best Support & Service and Best Emerging Product Categories Pavilion works with some of the biggest names in the industry to produce high- quality craft books. This year got off to a magical start with the release of Harry Potter We thoroughly enjoyed this year’s Knitting Magic by Tanis Gray – the first official Harry Potter knitting book. Knitting Craft, Hobby & Stitch International is also the craft of choice for Sincerely Louise, whose First Time Knits (which will Show, especially catching up with be released in July) aims to get more people to discover the joys of knit and purl. customers and visitors whilst Autumn 2020 holds many more exciting releases for Pavilion. Great British Sewing showcasing our processes and Bee finalist Chinelo Bally is back with a second book, Sew Chinelo (October), where products. Taking home three Craft she shows how to make fabulous new garments from existing clothes using her Business Awards to celebrate with our signature freehand method. Crochet queen Kerry Lord is going small with the release team was a highlight of the event. of a new series of mini menagerie patterns, How to Crochet Animals (September). Being highly commended in the One author combining craft with interiors is Molly Mahon, who shares her passion Best Support & Service category for block printing in House of Print (May). creates a boost for everyone working Pavilion’s sister imprint Batsford is set to publish the first new colouring book behind the brand. Our service level in four years from Millie Marotta, the No.1 bestselling illustrator. Millie Marotta’s and customer satisfaction is something Woodland Wild is out in September. Pavilion is distributed by GMC Distribution and we work hard towards and pride manufacturing and craftsmanship is Search Press. ourselves on and it’s extremely at the heart of everything we do. www.pavilionbooks.com/catalogues, [email protected] rewarding to be recognised for this. ColourLab DK, our 100% British Winning Best Knitting/Supplier/ wool launched last summer and has Distributor is a fantastic accolade. British been loved by knitters and crocheters. ColourLab offers an extensive choice of colours in a sustainable fibre at a reasonable price; it’s this combination that’s led ColourLab to be awarded Highly Commended status in the Best Emerging product category. The team would like to thank you for your votes. We’re always grateful to receive your support and work in such a welcoming and inspiring community. If you’re interested in becoming a WYS stockist, please contact Call 01535 664500 ­ email [email protected] or go to www.wyspinners.com STABILO Winner of the Best European Brand Highly Commended in the Best Emerging Product Category STABILO has achieved designing invites and creating or an artist there is something great success at the Craft masterpieces, the flexible brush for everyone! This creative and different products and when Business Awards, winning tip is brilliant for beginners exacting outlook has led to the ranged together they really Best European Brand and a and advanced artists alike. inception of STABILO’s many stand out on the shelf. The ARTY Commendation for the new Varying the pressure on the cult pens. Th e iconic STABILO range includes environmentally STABILO Pen 68 Brush pens. brush tip creates a thick or BOSS ORIGINAL, STABILO point friendly STABILO GREENcolors As a family-owned business, delicate line according to 88 and STABILO Pen 68 are which are made from 100% recognition of what the the effect required. From fine stand-out examples of this. strictly controlled FSC® STABILO brand stands for is art applications to shading Visit the STABILO website (Forest Stewardship Council) paramount, which is why its or stamping, STABILO Pen to find out how it helps to certified sourced from expert team of engineers and 68 Brush pens can even be unlock creative potential sustainable forests and other designers always considers blended and create special www.stabilo.com favourites such as STABILO customer needs to create watercolour effects using Cappi® STABILOaquacolor® pens and with a watercolour paper. Available STABILO Q+A and STABILO woody 3 in 1. real point of difference. in 19 colours and featuring Tell us about your latest The newly Commended a 24-hour cap off time, product releases. What shows/trade events STABILO Pen 68 Brush pens so they won’t dry out. We have launched a new are you planning to attend/ are no exception, having been STABILO celebrates range called STABILO ARTY exhibit this year? developed by and together stationery of all kinds for all which is an updated packaging We will be showing at the with STABILO fans to meet ages whether learning to concept to appeal to the adult London Stationery this year creative needs. Perfect for write, a colouring aficionado craft market. There are seven on 21st and 22nd April. We will be taking with us all the new products that we What are the best ways are launching this year for consumers to interact including the new ARTY range with your company? Do mentioned above. There you maintain a strong will also be the opportunity presence on social media? to see the new additional We have a strong presence on colours of the STABILO all social channels including BOSS® ORIGINAL and Facebook and Instagram. We the new SHINE highlighters. have a number of influencers Come say hi we will be on which we work across different stand M406 and pick up your genres including artists, study free samples of the STABILO and lifestyle and are always Pen 68 brush and metallic. looking for new talent.

www.craftbusiness.com 14 AWARDS

ALTENEW PILOT PENS Winner of Best Support & Service and Best American Brand Highly Commended in the Best Creative Highly Commended in the Best Papercraft Stationery Manufacturer/Supplier/Distributor Category Manufacturer/Supplier/Distributor Category Introducing the Set2Go lasting pen case and workers who ‘hot-desk’ Thank you Craft Business for recognising -A-Flower Stamps are consistently from Pilot – it is so much desktop pen holder for your or work from home, craft companies in various domains inspiring crafters to express their more than product Pilot pens. It’s definitely the Set2Go provides a and for being a strong advocate for incredible creativity in novel ways. packaging which looks not single-use plastic! quick and convenient excellence in the crafting industry. Furthermore, we recently launched a good protects the pens Ideal for students to way of transporting and Altenew’s customer happiness team set of artist-grade watercolours and inside. The Set2Go doubles carry their pens to and organising their pens works tirelessly to provide excellent a versatile crafting that will help as a reusable and long- from classes or for office at any workspace. service to our partners and crafters upgrade any crafter’s workspace. all over the world. Consequently, it We pay special attention to inspiring has been an incredible honour to paper crafters and we are routinely be awarded Craft Business’s Best sharing project inspiration through Support & Service, Best American our blogs and social media channels Brand Awards and to be commended (Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest. We for the Best Papercraft Manufacturer/ look forward to designing innovative Supplier/Distributor award. products and challenging ourselves Our monthly stamps/die releases to be the best source of inspiration and exclusive monthly subscriptions and crafting products. For more of our popular Build-A-Flower sets and information go to www.altenew.com

KEY BENEFITS OF THE SET2GO: • Environmentally responsible: Made from 100% recycled PET plastic, and at the end of its usable life can be disposed of in the household or office recycling bin. • Modular: Multiple Set2Go cases can be clipped together. • Versatile: Most Pilot rollerball and ballpoint pens fit in the Set2Go. • Compact: Unobtrusive and fits easily in a pocket or bag for ultimate portability. • It looks cool! A very minimalist and clean design that fits in with most working environments. The Set2Go is available in a wide range of pre-packed and ready-to-use sets of Pilot’s most popular pens. Find out more at www.pilotpen.co.uk LAVINIA STAMPS Highly Commended in the Best British Brand Category

How will you use your success launched this year, not just our website which encourages in the Craft Business Awards stamps! We have been working our customers to come back 2020 to boost your business? on new concepts throughout time and time again.” ‘’Highly commended British 2019/2020 with a view to Brand’’ is something to be very launching in Spring/Summer What do you think are the proud of. The Lavinia Stamps 2020. We feel very excited at best ways to encourage team works very hard throughout the possibilities that lie ahead.” return customers? the year, and receiving “One of the most important recognition for our brand means How do you make sure that things is to look after your a great deal to us all. We will be your customers receive a customers. It’s about investing sharing the news on our social professional service when in people, offering fantastic media pages and presenting they buy with Lavinia? customer care and bringing in the certificate on our website. “Customer service is paramount new ideas, concepts that allow Our customers will be delighted to us. We always have such your business to continue to to participate in our shared positive comments and reviews evolve. Keep the concept of success of the company’s unique from our consumers expressing creativity fresh and exciting with products and excellent service.” an efficient service and superb your products by sharing tips customer care. We have and techniques and connecting What products are you also been recently awarded with like minded people.” predicting to be big sellers Best Online Shop which is for you this year? fantastic news, it gives us great How are you looking to expand “There are a lot of new and confidence that people have a your business moving forward? exciting products being positive shopping experience on “We are always looking at expanding our business and love to challenge ourselves – it’s about thinking outside the . Our team thrives on new ventures and we have taken on fantastic new premises and increased the size of our team, bringing in some valuable new members. Over the next 12 months Lavinia will be expanding its range quite considerably, watch this space!”

www.craftbusiness.com GROVES page_CRAFT BIZ 03/03/2020 14:57 Page 1 ICHF page_CRAFT BIZ 04/03/2020 14:46 Page 1 ADVERTORIAL 17 KEEP IT CLOSE TO HOME Jo Bray, managing director of sales and marketing of West Design explains the value of local manufacturing in a globalised market

With the increasingly global have an unlimited budget. All nature of the way we run our the most successful business lives and our businesses, people take risks, but they are how important is it anymore calculated, with every e ort where something is made? made to reduce the impact. We were much more likely One way to limit the fi nancial to align our preconceptions risk of creating a bespoke of quality, and the associated product or introducing an cost, with national borders. own-brand range is to simply Made in Germany meant it buy less of them initially and was going to last forever but then order more if it takes you’d pay for the privilege. o . Partnering with a local Conversely, anything from manufacturer should give Taiwan was going to be cheap you the option to test new and probably fall apart, and ideas without the signifi cant made in the UK was something investment. you did out of national pride, rather than economic sense. KEEP These days there’s a much ENVIRONMENTAL more homogenous nature to STANDARDS IN MIND the supply chain, with quality It’s no longer possible to from the Far East massively can create more benefi ts than that’s the fact your customers asking about where to buy it, ignore the impact our improved, and e ciencies just the sales of that product. have grown to know, love but your normal supplier is consumer lifestyle has on the in European manufacturing Repeat business is crucial to and trust you, and if you put going to take three months to Earth’s resources. Choosing creating a much more long-term survival and an your name to a product then get it to you. Very frustrating! to work with a manufacturer competitive environment. So, exclusive, unique product is a those same values come with Trends, after all, are just that – that ensures high and where does ‘Made in the UK’ fi t? great reason for your customers it. When you own-brand a fl eeting moments in time that consistent standards, like In a nutshell, it’s about to return. And when they’re sketch pad, for example, you unless you can act on quickly only using FSC approved fl exibility. Local production back it’s always a chance to fi ll also create something unique will be gone by the time you , is something that’s should create plenty of their basket with all the other that’s hard for customers to get there, or all wrapped not only a lifestyle statement opportunities to develop essentials! Working with a local compare, often with increased up by your competition. but also makes good new products, reducing manufacturer, especially if margin opportunities. Sourcing from the UK gives business sense these days. the barriers that long lead they understand your market, However, committing to a you the opportunity to West Design is a pretty times, high minimum gives you the chance to test large order from China and respond fast and make hay rare breed in the art and craft order quantities and the out an idea without a large ensuring consistent quality while the trend shines. market it would seem, for as communication challenges of fi nancial commitment. can be a challenge. Local well as importing the products global sourcing often present. manufacture minimises MAKE USE OF LOW we design, and distributing UTILISE the risks, and the hassle. MINIMUM ORDER some the best known brands CREATE BESPOKE OWN BRANDING QUANTITIES in the world, we also have PRODUCTS You’ve put a lot of e ort into CAPITALISE ON Even with a lot of research, our own manufacturing site Staying one step ahead of the building your business, and SHORT LEAD TIMES listing a new and unique in the UK. We’re lucky to have competition is key to success. in the process, you’ve created Social media is buzzing with product in your store can be a talented in-house product Having something on your what the marketing types like the latest art and craft trend, a leap of faith. Shelf space design team working closely shelves that nobody else has to call ‘Brand Equity’. E ectively, and your customers are is precious, and you don’t with a production team in our Plymouth site. We’ve helped create some unique and successful products over the years, for customers such as Hobbycraft, WHSmith, Toys R Us and more. We can help bring your lightbulb moment to market, or to tap into the latest trend. Every business has its own goals and challenges; when we understand yours, it helps us o er you the right products and level of support to help you grow. CB

WEST DESIGN’S TOP 4 UK MANUFACTURED PRODUCTS ARTIST’S PADS PORTFOLIOS SKETCHBOOKS LABELS We produce a wide range of drawing Protect precious art projects Choose the size, page count and Computer labels or coloured and painting pads for some of the with dependable, resilient cover style from our massive shapes, in our o -the-shelf leading brands and retailers polypropylene portfolios selection, or create your very own Blick brand or own-branded GO TO WESTDESIGNPRODUCTS.CO.UK

www.craftbusiness.com ROYAL TALENS page_CRAFT BIZ 04/03/2020 14:52 Page 1 ADVERTORIAL 19 MUST HAVES FOR SPRING Delve into the newest and most exciting creative products from innovative manufacturer Royal Talens

We at Royal Talens UK are pleased to announce our newly launched QUICK DRYING SAKURA GELLY Amsterdam, Bruynzeel, Ecoline, Sakura ROLL MOONLIGHT WALLETS products to the UK market. Creativity is one IN NEW NIB SIZE 0.6 0.35MM of the most powerful human assets. It AND 15 NEW COLOURS stimulates our ability to express, to learn and These new gelly rolls come in a wallet of 12x to connect. It has the power to make the and also a fi ve wallet sets of 3x including three world a better place. Ever since we discovered new greys! The pens write smoothly and have that in 1899 it has been our goal to stimulate a constant fl ow of ink. Fine lines dry quickly as many people as possible to express their and are archival. Ideal for drawing, lettering, creativity. With our extensive brand range we journaling, decorating and writing, Moonlight have something for everyone, whether your is the only truly brilliant . Perfect for customer is a starter or a professional, we use on coloured, white and black paper. have every age and ability covered.

SAKURA SKETCHBOOKS/ ECOLINE BRUSH PEN EXTENSION OF 10 THEMED NOTEBOOKS ARE SUITABLE SETS IN ARCHITECT, FASHION, HAND LETTERING, FOR ALL AGES, AND FOR ILLUSTRATOR, DARK, BRIGHT, SKIN, GREYS, BOTH EXPERIENCED AND BOTANIC. PLUS NEW ECOLINE ADDITIONAL 30 ASPIRING ARTISTS BRUSH PEN SET SAKURA KOI BRUSH These new curated sets are an excellent addition to the Ecoline range These hardcover books contain 80 black WALLETS, NOW whilst providing optimum colour choice. You can use the brush pen for and ivory sheets of 140 g/m2 acid-free AVAILABLE IN 5 NEW thin, precise lines or for energetic strokes, but also for fi lling in large paper, which is perfect for sketching THEMED SETS IN colour sections. It is suitable for both a quick sketch and adding the and for use with Sakura products like BRIGHT, SWEETS, fi nishing touches. ink, pencils, oil and charcoal. BOTANICAL, PORTRAIT All sketchbooks/notebooks come with AND GALAXY a pen holder, an expandable , These sets are a perfect extension an elastic closure band and a uniquely to the Sakura Koi Brush pen family NEW ADDITION TO THE as well as providing extended illustrated sleeve to use as a bookmark. AMSTERDAM ACRYLIC FAMILY, Available in various sizes including A4, 13 colours. Koi is ideal for producing 2.5 LITRE TITANIUM WHITE colourful illustrations, hand- x 21, 9 x 13 and 12 x 12 cm. Consumers BUCKET, EXCELLENT PRODUCT can also choose from various types lettering and watercolours. The Koi FOR HEAVY END USERS Colouring Brush Pens also have a of sketching and writing with Sakura Titanium White is our most popular colour fl exible brush tip which makes for products like the Pigma Micron, Pigma choice for artists and hobbyists as it allows easy colouring and writing in a Brush, Koi Colouring Brush Pen, Gelly Roll, heavy users to access larger quantities of paint, variety of vibrant colours. Permapaque and the original Cray-Pas. whether that would be for larger acrylic painting of larger scale painting pouring methods.

NEW ADDITIONS TO BRUYNZEEL KIDS ASSORTMENT Bruynzeel 10 Multi Point Felt tips in super washable ink creating two to three lines in one stroke in a 3D e ect. Bruynzeel Fabric markers Set of 8 are a creative and colourful way of decorating bags, shoes, t-shirts and more! Our Contact Royal Talens UK for more information on these Super Stamp Marker Set of 10 exciting products and many more to come. Email are extra thick and short felt tips creating di erent colours and designs. These are especially designed sales.o [email protected] or Freephone 0800 995 6500. for children up to ages of 14 plus, and would make a great addition to any case.

www.craftbusiness.com 20 SHOW NEWS LONDON STATIONERY SHOW PREPARES FOR BUMPER BIRTHDAY EDITION The London Stationery to help them navigate this Show is set to deliver its ever-changing landscape. trademark mix of established Retail consultant and new paper and writing Catherine Erdly, of Future instrument suppliers this 21 Retail Consulting, will be – 22 April when it opens at outlining four ways that you the Business Design Centre can grow the sales in your in Islington, London. business and explaining Each year the show why the most obvious ways welcomes all the big-name are not always the best. brands as well as new designers Trend translator Phil Pond and suppliers showcasing will also be covering the key exciting launches and latest global consumer and design products, and the forthcoming trends for stationery in 2021. edition is no di erent as Get there early as Phil’s talks the show celebrates its are always extremely popular! 10th birthday. Take a look at some of the highlights RETAILER of this promising event. WORKSHOPS The Retailer Workshops, where LAUNCHPAD visitors can get hands-on In addition to over 50 fi rst- with exhibitors’ products are time exhibitors and 100 plus also back and redesigned. show regulars, the show’s From transforming a black LaunchPad competition Moleskine notebook using returns with six new hopefuls new Faber-Castell pencils, to at the event. Having already Maximise your business opportunities joining the Great Create (a new garnered approval from fundraising initiative designed this year’s retailer judges, at this extensive trade show for the to encourage creativity as Holly Probert from Scriptum, a way of boosting mental Amanda Walker from Cult UK’s biggest retailers and infl uential buyers wellbeing). Retailers will be Pens and Chris Lambert from able to apply for a space on Scrawlrbox, they are looking these workshops in advance to to break into the dynamic, The Stationery Awards and exhibitors can indulge The Trends Hub will discover simple ideas that they design-led stationery market. Showcase will be a key in a special birthday treat! also have a large focus on use in store to demonstrate to The 2020 winners, who redesigned display at the front sustainability, which will their customers. have been awarded a free of the show. This will show VIPS have a display of its own stand at the show, are My o all of the shortlisted entries A new VIP programme sharing information about 2020 EXHIBITORS Happy Journal, O What A from the product categories of has been launched for environmental issues and Some of stationery’s best Feeling, Pencil Me In, Port West the awards. Categories include 2020. Exhibitors are able to actions that can be taken by loved brands are returning to Stationers and Wrag Wrap. In Art & Crafts, Notebooks, nominate their top clients manufacturers and retailers this year’s London Stationery addition, Love Writing Co. has Organisers and Journals, for VIP status, who in turn in the stationery industry. All Show, with over 200 brands been selected as the London Children's Stationery, Social benefi t from a VIP Lounge, products displayed here will be including Moleskine, Filofax, Stationery Show team’s choice. Stationery, Gift Packaging Goody Bag, refreshments, 100% recycled or sustainable, Faber-Castell, Castelli, Cross, & Wrap, Eco & Sustainable and priority seating in talks including all their packaging. Caran d’Ache, , Crayola, STATIONERY AWARDS Stationery and more. and workshops at the show. Leuchtturm, Shea er, Silvine, London Stationery Show LIVE TALKS Stabilo, Staedtler, uni-ball, will once again host the JOIN US AT OUR TRENDS HUB Live Talks at the show o er Pentel, Pen, Pukka Pads, Stationery Awards on the fi rst BIRTHDAY BAR! The Trends Hub, curated by unmissable business advice edding, Posca, , evening of the show. As well As this year marks the 10th trend forecasting agency on long term retail success Exacompta, Royal Talens, as suppliers, retailers are also birthday of London Stationery Opus, takes centre for high street stores in the Daler-Rowney, Platinum, being rewarded this year, with Show, to celebrate, visitors stage on the mezzanine level. current market, and are Blackwing, Helix, regional best independent will be able to toast the next The Trends Hub is designed to always well attended by GO Stationery, Manuscript retailer awards introduced, 10 years in business at the help visitors recognise which retailers looking to grow their Pen and Clairefontaine. as well as awards for the best new Prosecco Bar on the trends will be most relevant businesses. Sustainability There’s also an array high street stores, with the show fl oor. There will also to their customers and can is inevitably a key topic of of new brands exhibiting, aim of recognising success be a Happy Hour between also be used to attract new conversation between retailers including Bostik, Blu Tack, across the whole industry. 3-4pm every day so visitors customers. The impact of and manufacturers this year Avery, Puckator, Pilot Pen, global trends and their e ect and visitors will be able to Polaroid, Co ee Notes, on the stationery sector is also hear practical tips and advice Hahnemühle, and Snopake. CB vital for visitors and exhibitors when making key commercial decisions about new product development and purchases with confi dence. ESSENTIAL SHOW This year it will feature INFORMATION three key global consumer and design trends relevant Dates: Tuesday 21 April & Wednesday 22 April to the stationery sector for Venue: Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, 2021– Biotopia, Earthage London N1 0QH and Soul Searching. The Opening hours: Tuesday 9.30am - 5.30pm | display features products Wednesday 9.30am - 4pm from exhibitors that illustrate Registration is free for bona fi de stationery buyers and these future trends, as well retailers at www.stationeryshowlondon.co.uk as trend mood boards.

www.craftbusiness.com ADVERTORIAL 21 RICO DESIGN’S NATURE MATTERS COLLECTION Organic structures, beautiful textures, natural colours and a diversity of fl ower designs – all these elements come together in an utterly inspiring medley

The new Rico Design fabrics, embroidery and home and versatile for DIY projects. colour options harmonise collection Nature Matters decoration products. The whole The plastic packaging has together as stylish table was inspired by nature itself, up-to-date assortment is a also been greatly reduced in décor. In addition two sewn transmitting its beauty and gorgeous interplay between this assortment! Rico Design garlands (one in triangular aesthetics. Designs focusing geometric shapes, fl owers pictorial , design shapes, the other in circles) on tree barks, delicate foliage in caramel, lilac and yellow paper pads, stamp sets, tapes are eye-catching and perfect and soft blossoms are part of and natural design. There and lovely stickers are not only to decorate every room. the collection, and the colours are four sets of pencils in stationery must-haves, they can Nature Matters makes creative include a wide range of warm harmonious colours, packed easily be used to create original possible! earthy colours that come in an environmentally friendly, invitation and birthday cards, or The range is characterized together with fresh, contrasting high-quality ‘thank you’ notes. How about with six designs, which link shades like Sulphur yellow. without plastic. Each contains individually designed wedding all products together to four plain pencils in modern guest books, DIY seating charts a harmonious ensemble: new gift bags in gorgeous TIME FOR CHANGE colours including erasers. or place cards for your next mustard with dots in golden designs. Last but not least, Out of respect for nature and Rico Design also o ers summer party? The collection hot foil, lilac shades with the brand o ers unique pillow company strategy, Rico Design diaries for the year 2020/2021 Nature Matters makes this structure accents, natural boxes (also in XXL), allowing saved up to 150,000 items in the fl oral Nature Matters possible because of the great fl owers in shades of mauve easy and very elegant gift of plastic packaging in this design. Six new diaries are range of products it o ers. with in hot wrapping. These gift boxes collection. The design team available in two di erent sizes Finally, DIY Cards, foil, brown with abstract are a beautiful alternative to had to think of new solutions with ring or glue binding. In paper, notebooks, paper patch structures, soft pink with paper gift wrap and can be to pack stickers, pencils and gift addition to a practical annual, tissue papers and pads swabs in golden hot foil decorated with matching boxes without using any plastic. monthly and weekly overview inspire to create and decorate and a very modern motif in gift tags and ribbons. Rethinking is necessary, as for 17 months, the calendars little gifts for loved ones. The brown and structure design. Everyone loves presents. nature defi nitely matters and as a also include a lot of space for three sticker tapes come There are matching The Rico Design collection key part of our product journey! notes, a birthday calendar, in three di erent designs – wrapping papers in the Nature Matters includes two a small bag for documents geometric shapes, simple circles six above mentioned new minimalistic purses in round DELVE INTO THE and two sticker sheets. These or fl owers in caramel, lilac and modern and timeless designs, shape and stylish colours – COLLECTION Paper Poetry agendas can be yellow. One roll contains ten perfectly complemented with pink and mustard. These are Rico Design is known for their individually decorated with di erent motifs, which makes gift tags in six colours and perfect gifts for birthdays, rich and unique collections, matching tapes and stickers them a lovely decoration for other stationery products Christmas or just because which beautifully link a range from the same collection. The DIY cards or notebooks. from the theme. Two of the moment is right. For of products to a mutual theme, books are no longer packed into the designs carry a hot foil more information contact creating a lovely coherence a polybag, but instead wrapped TIME TO CELEBRATE fi nish to emphasise colour your local Rico Design sales throughout the assortments. with a high quality paper band. Nature Matters also includes a and shape. In addition person or our UK/Ireland Nature Matters includes All Rico Design themed party range. Beautiful Rico Design expanded the customer service team stationery, party products, products are perfectly suited and in two collection, presenting four on 02030 249 009. CB

www.craftbusiness.com 22 STATIONERY TOP STATIONERY TRENDS: HAND LETTERING

Author and artist Cindy Guentert-Baldo explains the reasons behind journaling’s relentless popularity

“I’ve been journalling and each new skill building this results in slow growth (I’m “My go-to stationery is shop on selling prints of paper planning since I was on the previous work. not for everybody) but those whatever is in front of me! my watercolour fl owers (that a kid – I learn best by writing who do fi nd me and stick I tend to love to practice in have naughty words hidden things down. I think the growth “I’ve always tried to have around tend to not only be whatever notebook I’m bullet somewhere on them – are you of the journaling community a balance of my sense of really loyal to me, but fi nd new journaling in (currently a surprised?). This year I plan stems from a few areas – I’ve humor and the things I think friendships with like minded Leuchtturm1917) with a 01 to really work on all of these seen tonnes of scrapbookers are pretty on my Instagram people in the comments tipped fi neliner. I things, while also focusing on migrate to the decorative account @llamaletters sections. It’s actually one of my also am a long time fan of just more in person workshops in planning community, while – an example would be a favourite parts of doing what some bristol cardstock and a the Bay Area of California (my I also think there is a craving journaling spread that looks I do, seeing the connections marker. Lately I also home turf). I’ll also be traveling for tangible, analogue super aesthetic, but if you look that are made adjacent to my have been doing a tonne of to New York, Chicago and Los experiences. Everything is close you’ll see an e -bomb content. I hope people fi nd it lettering on my iPad Pro using Angeles to speak! I’m trying digital now; sometimes having in the caption. Some people easy to connect with me, as the Apple Pencil and Procreate. to balance the fun of working a pen and paper in your don’t like that, but those who I absolutely love to connect (that’s not sarcastic, by the hand can feel luxurious! do tend to be really enthusiastic with them. (My word of the “In terms of my future way) with my health struggles and loyal. I’ve never been year for 2019 was connection!) plans, I would love to write – I have polycystic kidney “Modern is a good at strategizing for social another book or three! disease and I am approaching massive trend at the moment. media; I’m kind of a fl y by “I loved the idea of I found the process to be the time for dialysis and The kind of bouncy brush the seat of my pants sort of posting hand lettering way more enjoyable than transplant, so I spend a lot of lettering that you see all person. This has resulted in challenges on my social I anticipated (I was really time at the doctor’s o ce. On over home goods stores and slow but steady growth, the media accounts, intimidated at fi rst.) Last year I the bright side, my journal bridesmaid accessories. I people joining me are really but most of the ones I had started several new projects: I is small and fi ts in my purse, keep holding out hope that invested in my journey. I’d seen didn’t interest me: the wrote the book, started teaching so I can get a lot of lettering my favorite lettering style, much rather have it this way subjects and prompts often on Skillshare and opened a done in the waiting room!” CB bubble lettering, is going to than blow up fast but lose all were not my style. I wanted ascend – maybe publishing connection with my followers. a challenge that was both the book will help! interesting to me and with “I have, from the the possibility of being funny. “My new book, Cute beginning, put a tonne of I love having a prompt each ABOUT Hand Lettering, builds myself into what I do. day that makes me smile THE BOOK confi dence in several ways: Sometimes I wonder if it is too or giggle. The response has fi rst, it starts from the very much! Whenever I get asked been great – I absolutely Cute Hand Lettering by Cindy bottom, assuming the reader something about the ways that love seeing peoples’ progress Guentert-Baldo is out now. has no idea what they are I inject my personality into my over the month! This year Published by Search Press, RRP doing. Second, it encourages brand I always mention that I I’m actually doing some £9.99. To fi nd out more about readers to not only learn am terrible at acting. I cannot throwback challenges to the Cindy’s work go to lettering, but to learn to love for the life of me cover up any previous years, and seeing www.cindyguentertbaldo.com. their individual skills and aspects of my personality, so some people post their For trade enquiries go to style. Finally, it encourages that’s what people get when improvement from two years www.searchpress.com slow, steady progress with they fi nd me. Like I said before, ago to now is really magical.

www.craftbusiness.com STATIONERY 23

Midnight Jungle Perfect Bound Notebook, RRP £8.95 www.ohhdeer.com HOT No stationery addict can resist a beautiful notebook or two. Provide your customers with plenty of options like this colourful design and STATIONERY you’ll be raking in the sales. Consider stocking lots of di erent types of notebooks, including hardback, paperback, PRODUCTS bullet journals etc. Take inspiration from these irresistible pieces of kit that have taken the stationery Watercolour Real Brush Pens Set of 48, RRP £29.98 ENVELOPESworld 1.4 3 COL_CRAFTby storm BIZ 04/03/2020 14:44 Page 1 www.arteza.co.uk This popular product Archer Pencil Case, combines the artistic freedom RRP £6 of watercolour with www.typo.com/UK the satisfying precision Not just a hit with of a pen – ideal for hand school children – supply lettering, underlining titles or elegant, grown-pencil colouring illustrations. Like pencil cases to allow normal paints, the colours your customers to store can be bled and blended their stationery in style. into each other, creating an eye catching fi nish.

Toucan Washi Staedtler 334 Triplus Fineliner Superfi ne Point Pens Tape 5m Pack of 5, RRP £5 www.hobbycraft.co.uk (0.3 mm, Assorted Colours) Pack of 20, RPP £11.22. A bright and colourful way to mark important pages in a journal To become a stockist go to www.staedtler.com or use as a decorative feature. These washi tapes are fun yet Fineliners in various colours are incredibly popular for elegant, and provide the user with a great deal of options. journaling due to the neat fi nish they create and the avoidance of ink bleeding through to the next page. This set is a perfect option for a more experienced crafter.

Faber Castell Metallic Highlighters Pack of 4, RRP £5.99. For trade enquiries go to www.westdesignproducts.co.uk Metallic colours are a huge trend for 2020. Give crafters a reason to invest with these gorgeous highlighters that come in four colours: Shiny Silver, Brilliant Ruby, Pearl Rose and Glamourous Gold.

Cotman Water Colours Pocket Plus (12 Half Pans), RRP £27.00 www.winsornewton.com For those who wish to keep things traditional, this small but comprehensive collection of watercolour paints is ideal for beginners or as a handy and packable piece for a more experienced artist.

Sharpie Permanent Markers Pack of 18, RRP £10. For trade enquiries go to global.sharpie.com A classic piece of stationery, and for good reason. Crafters need a marker that they can rely on, and with the wonderful array of colours in this pack there are plenty of artistic options at their fi ngertips.

www.craftbusiness.com 24 ADVERTORIAL

VISIT JAKAR AT STAND M620 AT JAKARTHE INTERNATIONAL: LONDONCELEBRATING STATIONERY SHOW 70 YEARS OF SUCCESS Managing director of Jakar International Ltd. Paul Sacki reveals how his fl ourishing arts and crafts business has continued to grow

WHAT QUALITIES business a Swiss businessman modelling tools, as well as DOES JAKAR POSSESS was looking for a suitable Caran D’Ache Gouache Eco THAT HAVE ALLOWED partner to promote his paints which are becoming IT TO WITHSTAND products in the UK and got more and more popular. 70 YEARS IN THE to hear about the family’s INDUSTRY? successful and rapidly HOW HAS JAKAR I would like to think that the key growing business. That BUILT A LOYAL to our success has been our businessman was Mr Jacques CUSTOMER BASE? ability to supply a wide range of Hubscher, the then President By o ering quality products quality products at competitive of Caran D’Ache. They met at very competitive prices prices. This is supported by and so started a partnership together with fi rst class our experienced team of that has lasted for 60 years. customer service and e cient sales executives and e cient Under the leadership of next day deliveries. We also HOT PRODUCTS FROM o ce and warehouse sta . my father and now myself, strive to continue and expand JAKAR INTERNATIONAL the business has continued the business and keep up to WHAT ARE THE to grow, and both the Jakar date with current trends. CARAN D’ACHE SWISSCOLOR WATER PROS OF RUNNING and Caran D’Ache brands SOLUBLE, WATER RESISTANT COLOUR A BUSINESS WITH have become well respected WHICH PRODUCTS PENCILS AND WAX MEMBERS OF household names throughout HAVE BEEN THE BEST Colour pencils available in metal tins of 12, 18, 30 and 40 YOUR FAMILY? the UK and Irish art, craft SELLERS FOR YOU assorted colours. Wax pastels in cardboard boxes of 10 Jakar is a third generation and stationery markets. OVER THE YEARS? and 15 assorted colours. RRP ranging from £7.49-£49.99. family business started in Our bestselling Jakar 1949 by my grandmother WHAT KEY CREATIVE products include ranges of CARAN D’ACHE GOUACHE ECO Lydia Sacki. In the mid 50s my STATIONERY TRENDS artists’ knives, cutting mats, WATER BASED PAINT father Kenneth Sacki joined ARE YOU KEEPING easels, telescopic tubes, rulers Including bright and opaque colours with natural binders, the business and I started in A CLOSE EYE ON and pencil sharpeners. Our 80% natural origin and high pigment concentration. 500ml 1979. I believe the success THIS YEAR? bestselling Caran D’Ache can be diluted to 2.5 litres. Available in 11 basic colours, of running a family business Our customers are requesting products include ranges of 4 primary colours and 4 fl uo colours. RRP £13.99. includes long-term stability, less plastic and more eco- water-soluble colour pencils, trust, loyalty and shared values. friendly products and Luminance 6901 professional JAKAR EASEL TABLE TOP packaging. Therefore this year quality water-resistant colour Made from pine wood and measuring 19 x 1.3cm. HOW WAS THE our aim is to concentrate pencils with the highest Available in assorted colours. RRP £9.99. EXCLUSIVE on more environmentally lightfastness, Graphite Line RELATIONSHIP WITH friendly products. Our current All the Colours of Black JAKAR WOODEN PALETTES CARAN D’ACHE range already consists of including RGB, Swisscolor Made with walnut/poplar laminate with thumb hole. SECURED? many wooden products student quality water-soluble Available in oval and rectangular shapes in medium Around the time my late father, including Jakar rulers, and water-resistant colour and large sizes. RRP ranging from £8.49-£9.99. Kenneth Sacki, joined the pantographs, easels, palettes, pencils and wax pastels. CB

www.craftbusiness.com ADVERTORIAL 25 FRISK ESSENTIALS A NEW PLAYER ON THE BLOCK Sam Kemp, sales director at Artcoe, talks to us about the key products his company will be focusing on at The London Stationery Show

Why do you feel that and entering the value What existing product it's important to attend category with our brand ranges do you expect to be this year's London new range of artist pads, popular for the show and Stationery Show? Frisk Essentials. They are: for the rest of this year? We attended in 2019 for the • Ideal for beginners Paper and surfaces remain fi rst time, which was very • One single price one of the most important successful indeed. It’s ideal to point across all the 6 materials for any artist meet and present all our core skus* (*per size) and their toolbox. We will products and, of course, new • Include six best-selling continue to invest into new products to new and existing papers in the range product development in this customers. The London • Available A4 & A3 sizes category and we very much Stationery Show is also a • Made in the UK look forward to presenting fantastic opportunity to talk • Fantastic value for many more new products about who we are, what we do consumers for our loyal customers and the values we can bring over the course of the next to our customers’ businesses. Where can retailers come 12 months. It’s a key event in our trade to see these products? show and marketing calendar. We will proudly be presenting To fi nd out more about Frisk Essentials at the London Artcoe’s latest products What plans do Artcoe Stationery Show in April, go to www.artcoe.co.uk. have for 2020, can you tell please come and talk to us For trade enquiries and ARTCOEus 1.2_CRAFT about any BIZ upcoming 05/03/2020 15:29 Pageand stand1 M303. It’s a good to book a meeting at new product launches? chance to fi nd out about how The London Stationery Absolutely! We are very we can add great value to Show email excited to be launching your category and business. [email protected]

0845 3007750 | [email protected] | www.artcoe.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com 26 TOP 20 SERIES

Lia Gri th Debbie Shore Lia Gri th is a hugely popular designer, Debbie can arguably be maker, artist, and author. Growing up in a described as the Queen of family of artists and DIYers inspired Lia to sewing books! As the author pursue a career focused on crafting and of 20 titles with more in the helping others reignite their creativity. In pipeline, owner of Debbie 2013, she launched www.liagri th.com as Shore Sewing, a fabric designer, a solo blogger with a paper rose tutorial. That Youtuber and presenter, it’s fi rst project evolved into a membership site clear to see that this dynamic providing thousands of templates, SVG fi les, fi gure in the craft industry is a and tutorials for all types of craft projects, master of exposing her hard as well as a thriving global community work to the masses. Debbie where members learn lifelong skills, gather has also been able to inspire continuous inspiration and build confi dence crafters of all ages with the while growing their abilities. Along with creation of her Half Yard Sewing membership, she has also designed a wide Club, where members can range of quality crafting products o ered benefi t from exclusive monthly projects, with patterns and video tutorials, worldwide with her growing and dedicated online feedback sessions with Debbie as well as gaining tips, techniques team. To date, the Lia Gri th brand has over and sewing secrets. She was crowned Sewing Infl uencer of the Year in 77,000 Instagram followers, 54,00 Facebook the British Sewing Awards 2019 after her continued success across a followers, 111,000 YouTube subscribers, and variety of online platforms including Instagram and Facebook. To fi nd out over 10M monthly views on Pinterest. more about Debbie’s work go to www.debbieshoresewing.com THE TOP 20 MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN IN CRAFT We celebrate some of the brightest female stars of the craft industry, from CEOs to inspirational artists...

Sara Davies MBE Juliet Uzor Jane Davenport Businesswoman Sara Davies is a fantastic example Reigning winner of The Great British Sewing Bee, Jane Davenport is the Creative Director of Jane of how creativity and drive can result in breathtaking Juliet is a fresh face in the world of craft. After Davenport Mixed Media art supplies, as well as being a results in the craft industry. Sara is the founder of beating ten other stitchers and impressing judges much-loved artist and bestselling author. Her website online and instore retailer Crafter’s Companion, Esme Young and , there’s something (www.janedavenport.com) is a hub of helpful which she created while she was studying at truly remarkable about the designs that Juliet creates. advice, workshop events and irresistible art products university. After spotting a gap in the market After picking up sewing later in life during a trip to that are available to buy online. Through her bustling for a tool that could create bespoke envelopes West Africa, what started as an escape after a busy online art school, she expands on her books and for handmade cards, Sara and her father made day with the kids at work has ended up changing demonstrates tips and techniques for drawing and and launched The Enveloper on the Ideal World Juliet’s life. You could certainly say that Juliet’s life painting. The various titles that Jane has produced shopping channel, selling 30,000 units within six has changed considerably since signing up to the include mixed media inspiration books such as months. Crafter’s Companion now employs 190 BBC Two show – she now provides a booming Beautiful Faces, as well as colourful journals including sta in the UK and overseas and exports to over 40 tuition service in London where crafters can benefi t Imagine Out Loud. Her passion for teaching crafters countries. In 2019 Sara joined BBC Two’s Dragons’ from classes or private sessions from the expert how to produce the best art possible has transcended Den, making her the youngest ever investor to be herself. Topics cover a range of projects including from her native Australia and across the rest of the involved in the show, which has catapulted her into how to make gym leggings, coats, statement sleeves world. With savvy business moves, personality and the spotlight. For more information about Sara’s and more. Learn from Juliet herself via her brilliant inspiration injected into everything Jane produces, it’s business go to www.crafterscompanion.co.uk videos at youtube.com/julietuzor-sewsonatural clear to see why she is a huge hit with consumers.

www.craftbusiness.com TOP 20 SERIES 27

Stephanie Weightman Spearheading Tattered Lace and other ventures, Stephanie Weightman has made a real impact in the world of crafts. She is a presenter for the hugely popular Create and Craft TV, and with countless awards under her belt, she is one of the most recognised infl uencers and designers around. Stephanie has revolutionised the way we create cards and papercrafts, and is a key fi gure that crafters rely on for advice. She was also awarded Designer of the Year in the Best of Craft Awards 2019, on which she has commented: “The support of the crafting community is so important for those of us working in the creative industries. It doesn’t just validate what you do, but it makes you really feel like you’re giving something back to people and helping them to express themselves. Inspiring others is my biggest passion, always.” www.tatteredlace.co.uk

Angel Adoree Angel Adoree (Strawbridge) is a 1940s vintage-inspired entrepreneur from East London who shot to fame in 2010 when she won the hearts of the nation (and the backing of entrepreneurs Deborah Meaden and Theo Paphitis), after appearing on BBC2’s Dragons’ Den. Founder of Mimi G The Vintage Patisserie, a glamorous hospitality company and online Award-winning fashion, lifestyle and DIY retail outlet, and author of the best-selling Vintage Tea Party Series, blogger Mimi has taken the sewing world Angel’s business moves have gone from strength to strength. With by storm. From humble beginnings as her original concept, hard work and vivacious personality, Angel a hobbyist sewer back in 2012, she has soon attracted the interest of fashion designers and brands looking created her own international brand, Mimi to recreate the Vintage Patisserie experience. Previous clients include G Style, that engages with more than 2.1 Paul Smith, Kim Jones, Cutler and Gross, and Liberty’s. At the end of million followers every day across her 2018, Angel and her husband Dick Strawbridge launched their fi rst co- social media platforms. Mimi has become written book about their adventures under their publishing company a master at producing DIY sewing, lifestyle The Chateau Publishing with the title, The Chateau: The Beginning. and empowerment videos that have In 2019, she launched her fi rst eagerly anticipated soft furnishings inspired her worldwide audience to get and collection – The Chateau™ by Angel Strawbridge – in crafting. Since 2014, she has partnered her collaboration with Design Studio. www.vintagepatisserie.co.uk brand with Simplicity Creative Group to license, design and market commercial sewing patterns, which have proved to be incredibly popular. In 2016 she also Emma Watford founded SewItAcademy.com which Emma has been an infl uential non-executive director at Hobbycraft since 2011 in her capacity as is an a ordable online sewing school a Partner at Bridgepoint. She has been a private equity investor for 15 years and is an experienced with a focus on educating crafters transaction leader and board director. She is also a member of the UK Takeover Panel and on the in an accessible and a ordable way. Advisory Council of Level 20, which promotes gender diversity in private equity, a topic which After collaborating with hundreds of she has a strong personal interest in. During her nine years at Hobbycraft, Emma has developed brands, we can’t wait to see what great a particular passion for card-making, cake decorating and anything that appeals to young things she’ll achieve next. For more children and busy mums, which has helped to steer her successful decisions for this formidable details go to www.mimigstyle.com crafting giant. www.hobbycraft.co.uk

Kerry Lord Founder and creative director of the TOFT luxury yarn brand Kerry set up her business in September 2006 at the dawn of the handmade, do-it- yourself craft resurgence in Britain. Since then her brand has organically grown from a small family start up to become a dynamic player in the contemporary craft and lifestyle market. Following from a development of Lord's family alpaca farm at Toft Manor, which is now the base for the whole company, she was able to manufacture TOFT Claire Gelder Alpaca yarn here in the UK. In 2013 Claire Gelder’s venture into the knitting world only came about the decision was made to move in 2016, but since then she has truly made a name for herself in away from small irregular batches this dynamic industry. After making the bold move to leave her of alpaca and spin TOFT's fi rst career as a director in the NHS, Claire set up her new retail large-scale batches of 100% luxury company Wool Couture. After starting this business with very sheep's wool yarn. Kerry was then limited experience, Claire sold her products on platforms such as able to o er consistent yarn and Etsy, and her company quickly caught the attention of John kits to other retailers across the UK Lewis and QVC, resulting in the selling of crochet and knitting and even internationally. She has kits. In 2017, Claire was thrown into the spotlight after she also written best-selling crochet appeared on BBC’s Dragons’ Den, securing two investors. books including Edward's Menagerie Away from the shopping arena, Claire has also ventured into the and Edward's Emporium, o ering world of publishing, having recently released her very fi rst book, various patterns and projects Mabel and Co, which has proven to be incredibly popular. which are suitable for complete www.woolcouturecompany.com beginners. www.toftuk.com

www.craftbusiness.com 28 TOP 20 SERIES

Amy Last In July 2018 Amy Last was Kate Davies appointed as director of Kate Davies decided to launch her own company, The Knitting Network, an Kate Davies Designs (KDD) in 2010, when a online store selling yarn, stroke at the age of 36 ended her career as a patterns and accessories literary academic. While recovering, she worked from leading brands and on designing digital patterns for hand-knitting, shipping to customers SHESTO 1.4 2 COL_CRAFT BIZ 04/03/2020 14:54 Page 1 established an independent publishing company worldwide. After helping to and began to produce books that combined start up the ecommerce her skills as an author and designer. As of 2020, business as head of Kate has produced fifteen books under the KDD marketing from 2017 and Makadu imprints, including Yokes (2014), onwards, it’s clear to see West Highland Way (2018) and Book of Haps that Amy shows great (2016). KDD has grown into a company which passion and drive for her now encompasses many different aspects of work. She has spearheaded publishing, design, and creative practice in the business’s drive the west of Scotland. In 2015 Kate’s business towards eco-friendly developed its own brands of yarn for hand practices, and The Knitting Network recently became the first knitting, and in 2017, she announced the launch online retailer in the UK to be awarded a Green Mark for of her own knitwear line, KDD Originals, designed environmental sustainability, due to the company’s and made in Scotland. www.shopkdd.com commitment to only use plastic-free, recyclable packaging. www.theknittingnetwork.co.uk

Lisa Comfort Entrepreneur Lisa successfully oversees her two businesses, Sew Over It and Lisa Comfort Home, injecting passion and enthusiasm into her work with her love of sewing, decor and colour. Set up in 2011, Sew Over It’s aim is to teach as many people as possible to feel confident about the craft of sewing and making their own clothes. The online shop, with Sew Over It’s own range of both modern and vintage inspired patterns, as well as fabric designed by Lisa herself, is a haven for enthusiasts who are looking to develop their skills. Lisa’s savvy business ideas have resulted in the development of her online sewing school, Stitch School, where crafters can learn to create the wardrobe of their dreams, with exclusive patterns and video tutorials alongside written instructions. Sew Over It also runs regular classes in a studio in Islington for beginner, intermediate and advanced crafters. Lisa’s love for design is echoed in Lisa Comfort Home, where consumers can get their hands on eye- catching furniture, soft-furnishing fabric and home accessories. www.sewoverit.co.uk, www.lisacomforthome.com

Debbie Bliss MBE A much loved figure in the craft industry, Debbie’s popularity was clear to see when she was awarded an MBE for her services to the Hand Knitting and Craft Industry in June 2015. The knitwear designer and author boasts over 30 years of experience in the sector, and is renowned for her classic knits which feature a contemporary twist, particularly her children’s wear. She also has her own brand of highly successful yarns which are exclusively available at LoveCrafts, and has published over 50 books and booklets of design. Debbie also lectures in the UK and North America. She was inspired to pursue her career in hand knitting after being inspired by her late mother, Mid, and has strived to create wonderful designs which flatter all body types. www.debbieblissonline.com

www.craftbusiness.com TOP 20 SERIES 29

Kirstie Allsopp Kirstie is truly a household name thanks to her sparkling television career presenting Location, Location, Location, Kirstie’s Handmade Christmas and many more. She is a real authority on all things craft, helping to push this sector back into the television spotlight by inspiring viewers to get creative to celebrate key seasons such as Christmas and Easter. Britain’s favourite celebrity crafter embraces everything from vintage to craft innovations. From re-using, restoring and upcycling, to avant-garde techniques, her shows has inspired the nation to transform vintage into modern-day treasures using a range of crafting skills and practices. Kirstie’s passion for patterns, upcycling and all things British has resulted in collaborations with the likes of Aldi and AVEC. She is also the author of several books with Hodder & Stoughton, including Kirstie’s Homemade Home and Kirstie’s Vintage Home, her annual Handmade Festival (www.thehandmadefestival.com), held at Hampton Court Palace between 11th–13th September this year continues to champion makers and designers and to celebrate everything handmade. Ann Newhouse Back in 1990, Ann Newhouse and her husband David started a humble little wool and needlecraft shop in Preston town centre. As their passion for the Jane Moore industry grew, so did their business Tilly Walnes Jane Moore has built a aspirations, and so Ann and David career as a well-known decided to supply their customers Tilly’s flourishing career began as a blog 10 years ago, where journalist, presenter and with papercraft products, starting with she took the chance to share her passion for making clothes author over the last two peel-off stickers to add greetings to and sewing. After trainingWEST at the YORKSHIRE London College SPINNERS of Fashion 1.4 3 COL_CRAFT BIZ 05/03/2020 09:51 Page 1 decades. She is a regular handmade cards and progressing to a she decided to turn her blog into a business and launched member on the panel of wide range of craft supplies. In 2002, they Tilly and the Buttons full-time, slowly building a hard work- ITV’s Loose Women and introduced Cardcraft Plus, a mail order ing team around her. Tilly’s company now creates stylish, has previously expressed craft company, allowing customers to easy-to-use sewing patterns, books and online workshops her fondness for sewing order products directly to their door. The for the new wave of DIY dressmakers. Tilly and the Buttons’ and dressmaking on couple capitalised on the fact that their award-winning sewing patterns can be purchased via the the show. The crafting in-house catalogue designers were also online shop, as well as in lots of stores around the world community certainly crafting enthusiasts, and created their including Liberty of London and John Lewis. Her first resonated with Jane own products which became published book for beginner dressmakers, Love at First Stitch, when she recently posted best-selling products. After recruiting their was a Sunday Times bestseller, a video to her Instagram two sons Adam and Daniel to the family won ‘Best Book’ in the of a dress she’d upcycled business, Hunkydory Crafts was born as British Sewing Awards herself using an old a company and brand under which to 2014, and has been Singer machine, and the wholesale original papercraft designs in published in nine sewing sector definitely 2007. Over the years, the company has languages. Since benefitted from the boost grown exponentially, supplying papercraft then, she has of publicity thanks to products globally and showcasing them gone on to pro- Jane’s 97,000 followers on craft shopping channel, Create & Craft duce two more on the platform! TV. www.hunkydorycrafts.co.uk titles including Stretch! Make Yourself Comfort- able Sewing with Knit Fabrics in March 2018 and Make It Simple in February 2020. www.tillyandthebuttons.com

Alison Kirkham Alison joined the BBC in 2005 as an executive producer of daytime programming, and has progressed in her career throughout the years to commissioning editor. After securing this role, she made the crucial decision to commission The Great British Sewing Bee, a sewing competition judged by Esme Young and Patrick Grant that is produced by Love Productions. After first airing in April 2013, the show thrust sewing into the spotlight and inspired a nation to pick up a needle and thread and be creative. After speaking previously with Craft Business, Alison explained her reasons behind this crucial decision that has greatly benefitted the industry: “When we’re think- ing about commissioning a show, we often take inspiration from things we know our audience enjoy and are preoccupied with. It was striking how much sewing was still going on in British homes and that was part of the appeal. We chose sewing and dress making in particular partly because there is an end product. The process builds towards something concrete and physical that the audience can see and judge from their sofas. But more than that – it involves creation and there is always something magical about seeing something, be it a cake or a dress, conjured out of raw materials. It feels inspiring.” www.bbc.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com

Please use these crops to place the ad, they want white space around the advert. 30 NEWS KNITTING & CROCHET

RICO DESIGN ANNOUNCE NEW RICO BABY Wool and the Gang RANGE AND RICORUMI CROCHET ALONG Collaborate with Maiami to Rico Design has recently nine super cute and fun of its own brand Ricorumi Produce New Knitting Kits released its new rico baby Ricorumis for the Spring and yarn. It doesn’t matter if knitting range, which Easter season. A Bunny, lamb, crafters are beginners or Wool and the Gang are Sustainably and responsibly includes fantastic designs ladybird, bee and so much advanced crocheters, there teaming up with - sourced in South Africa, the of hand knitted clothes and more is available, and once is something for everyone. based Maiami for the suppliers of this collection accessories for youngsters finished, customers will have To download the free make-your-own mohair have traceability on all of with funny fruit accents. created beautiful handcrafted Ricorumi CAL patterns follow collaboration of dreams. their farms and adhere to the The collection includes home decorations and gifts! @ricorumi to watch out for Maiami is a handknit brand, Sustainable Mohair South Africa beautiful shades such as Each Friday, starting live announcements and known and loved for its Guidelines. On top of this, CYGNET 1.8 2 COL_CRAFT BIZ 05/03/2020 10:01 Page 1 seven plain and three new March 27th and over the create a community with signature colour combinations they filter and recycle water print shades in the Rico Baby following 9 weeks, Rico has the hashtag #ricorumiCAL. and modern silhouettes. used in the process. Cotton Soft (print) dk. promised to launch a new Stocked in the likes of Maiami was founded by The company is also free detailed pattern with an Goodhood and Anthropologie, Maike Dietrich in 2004 and organising a Ricorumi Crochet image for a Ricorumi figure FOR FURTHER DETAILS their unique and chic aesthetic shares many of the same Along, which will give crafters on the Rico Design website, Go to has built a loyal fan base. aspirations as Wool and the the opportunity to crochet which encourages the use CB www.rico-design.de/en The capsule collection Gang: to modernise traditional will launch on 9th March and crafts in a sustainable and features two exclusive kits, relevant way. Maike’s dedication the ‘Maiami’ sweater and the to the craft of knitting, as well as ‘Vice’ cardigan. As the name her exceptional eye for design, suggests, the colours and has created a brand that is not bold shapes of the designs are only grounded by strong ethical inspired by legendary TV show and environmental standards Miami Vice. Both intermediate but is also highly desirable. level, these makes are perfect The kits are available in UK for those knitters who have sizes 6-28 and prices start at mastered the basics and are £106. To find out more go to looking for their next challenge. www.woolandthegang.com

ALAN PROVISOR 1.8 3 COL_ADS 24/01/2020 11:30 Page 1

Great collection of trimmings for furnishing craft and sewing including braids, cords, tassels and piping along with a full haberdashery range, visit website for more details

www.4trimmings.com | 0844 9109711 | [email protected]

www.craftbusiness.com ADVERTORIAL 31

“USE CREATIVITY TO SPARK CHILDREN’S CURIOSITY AND CONFIDENCE” The founder of The Creation Station and multi-award-winning entrepreneur Sarah Cressall is gunning for crafting gold with her Guinness World Record attempt

Creativity is just great for a hands-on approach to have been inspired since 2002 to say you are entered all ages! At The Creative learning, which makes it with the support of our into the record attempt. Station we see over 20,000 fun, engaging and tailored fantastic family of Creation If you would like us to run kids and adults each week to each child’s abilities and Station franchise owners. an official Guinness World and gain so much feedback, interests. We’ve brought To celebrate our 18 years Record attempt event for you, reviews and stories about how arts in science technology, of inspiring imaginations, we can come to your setting, creativity helps in all areas engineering and maths in we’re super excited to group, work or school email of learning, leisure and life. our STEAM workshop. give all ages a chance [email protected] Being creative with to be part of our official with details or call Here are some of the family members provides Guinness World Record 01395 239700 or visit way’s creativity is a force shared positive fun. Our attempt. ‘Our Creative www.ourcreativeface.com. for good in all ages: family fun events and Face’ is The Creative Here’s’ to inspiring Engaging in creative creative entertainment Station’s attempt to create imaginations! If you don’t activities helps children often involve a wide range the largest online gallery have a Creation Station in grow emotionally, socially, of different ages. It’s not of collaged portraits. It’s an your area and you or someone intellectually, and physically. often a 3 year old boy, 5 year opportunity for all ages! I would you know would love to run Our approach at Creation old girl, 9 year old girl and didn’t do very well at school, love you and people you know their own flexible and fun Station is to spark curiosity and a grandparent can all get or we’re frightened of looking to get involved. Create your own creative franchise business support children to explore stuck into the same activity silly or bad compared to portrait and upload it to you can download an concepts and materials, together. What I love is that everyone else. When people www.ourcreativeface.com. information pack at discover ‘what if’ and new we supply the same materials first come to our Creative You’ll then receive an email www.thecreationstation.co.uk techniques, and to develop and each person will create Crafter adult workshops at their ideas and confidence. their own unique outcome. corporate events or events From learning to recognise and As adults, very few of us in the pub we see people sort shapes and colours, make would put our hand up to say relax and start to enjoy the choices, develop hand and we were creative, but we all process, it becomes good fun eye coordination to building use some degree of problem and a really positive mindful confidence and learning about solving, design decisions and experience. In our Care & their world, creativity helps create connections in our Creativity workshop and each child grow at a rate and everyday lives. Even if it’s intergenerational workshops pace that is right for them. working out what to cook with we see the power of creativity As children grow, we find the ingredients in the fridge, in reducing loneliness and that creative experiences or how to juggle too many providing so much joy . help them to share their things in a short space of time! As you can see, creativity thoughts, feelings and ideas. Often as adults we can shy truly is a force for good, there Our Create Club after school away from doing creative stuff are so many ways for all ages. clubs, workshops and home as we think we aren’t good I feel very privileged that over education classes bring enough due to being told we 1.5 million children and adults

www.craftbusiness.com 32 INTERVIEW CASH IN ON CROCHET Tap into the success of this popular craft with industry ideas from author Emma Varnam “My new book, Cute There are plenty of techniques Crocheted Wild Animals, and instructions and I have was launched after I had tried to avoid complicated written Cute Crocheted designs where I can. Animals a few years ago. “I think the main appeal The projects featured tended of crochet is that it’s usually to be the traditional characters quite fast. I am a very speedy which are used for soft knitter but I would much rather toys, such as bears, rabbits crochet a blanket than knit and foxes. Lots of people one. Secondly, there are many who enjoyed the fi rst book fabulous smaller crochet projects contacted me and asked if it that are easy to complete over would be possible to create a weekend. It’s very satisfying! a new book with rare wild animals. The ideas just started “Crochet is perfect for toy popping into my head. I was making – you can crochet in also fortunate enough to visit the round and almost sculpt the Africa last year and so it was shape by working in continuous easy to be inspired by the spirals. This means you have no fantastic natural wildlife. seams. The material you make I have been a knitter most is very hard wearing and keeps of my life and I still enjoy its shape. This ensures that knitting. I started crocheting favourite characters keep their about 10 years ago, and quality and have a much longer was fi rst inspired by some life playing with their owners. crocheted blankets I inherited. “For as long as children I thought it would be fun have had dolls they have to teach myself to crochet enjoyed dressing their toys. I in order to reduce my huge think the reasons behind the yarn stash. I love it so much success of clothing for toys is and I fi nd the techniques so a combination of developing fl exible and speedy. However, and demonstrating love and the stash has not reduced, nurturing through imaginative if anything it has grown! play. Kids love to make decisions about what their toy wears “I have included quite a and they are in charge of lot of detail into how to the adventures they will go make the toys in this book, on together. I think it is the and I think readers have beginning of independent responded well to that. I thought for children. Plus they was able to learn from the look cute! I also get to live out last book and add in hints my fashion designer dreams and tips to help with the through designing toy outfi ts – construction. There is also that’s my own imaginative play. an added bonus in that all the outfi ts from this new I have a fantastic book will fi t on the animals relationship with my made from the fi rst book. online followers, and ask

3 WAYS TO SELL CROCHET BOOKS BASE YOUR WORKSHOPS CREATE A KNOCK OUT WINDOW DISPLAY CREATE VIDEO CONTENT AROUND THEM If you’re a keen crafter yourself, then it might be worth making a few of FOR ONLINE PLATFORMS In order to entice customers to give a new the projects from the book you’d like to promote and create a colourful Completed projects from the book could crochet book a try, it’s a good idea to use a project window display for your shop. Doing this not only gives you hands on also be used in video content. You could from the title you wish to promote in your next experience about the book, which will allow you to provide valuable fi lm yourself putting a project together, workshop. This will give them a taste of what to guidance, but it also shows the passion you have for your business. If give your recommendations and promote expect. Be sure to leave the book in a highly visible you’re not confi dent that you could crochet to a high enough standard, the book in this way, too. It’s clear to see place during your workshop, and remind crafters then it might be worth commissioning an experienced crafter to create that videos are a great way of interacting that if they want more guidance or similar makes a few pieces for you. Be sure to add the book to your window display to with your online audience, and this is a then they can purchase the book from you. inspire people as they walk past the front of your store. valuable opportunity to boost sales.

www.craftbusiness.com INTERVIEW 33

THE SECRETS BEHIND EMMA’S SUCCESS GMC sales director Michael Robb reveals why Emma Varnam’s books have been so popular, as well as key ways to market them

What is it about Emma Varnam and her crochet books that has convinced GMC to invest in her? “Emma has a style and aesthetic that crafters love! She has a lucid and friendly writing style, coupled with great projects that inspire and encourage readers. Crafters trust her and her books sell well, so it makes sense to keep commissioning Emma to supply more great projects.”

Why should retailers stock Cute Crocheted Wild Animals? “Retailers only have to look to the success of the predecessor title, Cute Crocheted Animals from Emma Varnam. This sold over 10,000 copies in the UK and many more worldwide. Like the previous title, Cute Crocheted Wild Animals features 10 adorable crocheted animals with wardrobes to mix and match. The five pairs of animals (pandas, lions, zebras, elephants and monkeys) all have distinctive personalities and gorgeous outfits – plus all the clothes can fit all of the animals (and will fit the animals from the first book, too!). Her fans will love this.“ them to show me their they are first published and any creations using the hashtag new patterns that I develop. VIRIDIAN 1-8 2 col_VIRIDIAN 05/03/2020 09:55 Page 1 Is crochet still just as popular? #CuteCrochetedAnimals. Emma’s books “Crochet has been incredibly popular for the past few years and It is fabulous to see all the have sold over “Looking to the future, shows no sign of slowing down. As publishers, we have to keep different projects made from I’d love to write a nursery looking to our creative authors to come up with colourful and the books, and makers can find crochet book – I keep attractive new projects that crafters want to make. There are inspiration about new colour 40,000 thinking there are so many always new ideas in the craft world!” combinations and alterations copies in the UK for GMC useful patterns that I make from other crafters. I love Publications, and many of for new babies in my life and What’s next for GMC? the ways that social media them continue to sell after it would be joyful to share “In 2020 we have some great new titles coming from GMC. can create a community. several years! these go-to patterns with the These include 100 Essential Crochet Stitches by Val Pierce, How crafting community. In terms to Cross Stitch by Sian Hamilton and Circus Embroidery from “I always try to share what inspiration from everyday of my other goals I am keen Susie Johns. We are also putting the finishing touches to our I am making on my blog. concepts. I won’t lie though to develop some new toy Autumn 2020 titles, so more will be announced soon.” I imagine I am writing for my – a giveaway post is always patterns and enjoy the design best friend. I hope readers feel the most popular way to process. Nothing brings a smile the joy and enthusiasm I have engage with my audience. to my face more than finishing ABOUT THE BOOK for the craft, and I ideally want I don’t do heaps of these, a new toy and thinking – you Cute Crocheted Wild Animals by Emma Varnam (RRP £12.99) CB to inspire my readers to keep on but I do enjoy giving away know what, I know a child published by GMC Publications will be available from making and enjoy finding new copies of my books when who would just love that!” CB March 2020. You can find Emma’s blog at emmavarnam.co.uk and her Instagram account @emmavarnam

UK Distrubutor for: Sock Yarn Specialists • Opal • Eucalan

Knitting Needles & Accessories TRADE ENQUIRIES: E: [email protected] T: 0117 300 5244 www.viridianyarn.com

www.craftbusiness.com 34 INTERVIEW ON THE ROAD RETAIL Unleash the money-making potential of crafting getaways that will take your business to new heights

Based in Ipswich, idea of our first tour in 2008 closely with them to develop independently owned Arena and it has grown from there. fascinating tours to destinations Travel is one of the UK’s Our tours cover and with a rich crafting history. leading operators of special quilting, knitting, crochet, cross Many of our customers are interest holidays. For the last stitch and embroidery, but we regulars because they know we 12 years they have been running are always keen to introduce will give them experiences they craft dedicated getaways under new crafts. Stitchtopia has could not get independently. the name Stitchtopia, catering boomed over the past 10 years. “I think these holidays have “Our groups are small, whole tour, helping them with PEAK DALE 1.8 2 COL_CRAFT BIZ 23/01/2020for 14:11 a wide Page range 1 of interests in I was recruited two years ago proven popular because we enabling us to ensure solo their holiday related project.” a number of destinations. Arena to ensure we can keep up with ensure that our tours have a travellers are made welcome. Travel’s specialist brands general demand whilst increasing our good balance of craft activity, Guests enjoy the combination of TAP INTO THE MIND manager Alison White reveals range of crafts and introducing sightseeing and the opportunity travel with their personal interest. OF THE TRAVELLING the key credentials that have Stitchtopia to a new audience. to learn craft techniques and Through sharing the Stitchtopia CRAFTER led to this company’s success... “Our experts are either traditions from local people experience with like minded “In terms of our demographic, “Stitchtopia provides top published authors in their craft, (some of these experiences are crafters, an enthusiastic expert most of our customers are quality holidays in a wide range known through their design exclusive to Stitchtopia). All our and our specialist tour manager female, and many are retired of special interests. A chance collaboration with big brands tours are accompanied by a they quickly become a friendly with more leisure time for their conversation with leading or have a strong following relevant crafting expert, as well group of crafty explorers. The craft. Younger customers mainly quilter Karin Hellaby sparked the on social media. We work as a specialist tour manager. expert travels with them on the join our UK and short haul

I think these “holidays have proven popular because we ensure that our tours have a good balance of craft activity, sightseeing and the opportunity to learn craft techniques and traditions from local people”

www.craftbusiness.com INTERVIEW 35

HOW TO LAUNCH YOUR OWN CRAFT GETAWAYS

If you’re interested in expanding your business by offering craft trips or even holidays, here are some great ways to get you started.

TAKE YOUR WORKSHOPS FURTHER AFIELD To get a taste of organising crafting events outside of the comfort of your store, why not try taking your workshops to a different location? Local craft fairs or even taking the session outside to the local park will give you a taste of how your customers respond to this change of scenery. It’s also a good opportunity to ask if your regular crafters would be interested in a day out or a weekend trip.

ORGANISE PLANNED DAYS OUT Is there a craft show that you and your customers would benefit from visiting, or a museum that aligns with their crafting interests? If you’re willing to organise transportation and even the pre- booking of tickets to a particular event, then this could be a fantastic way to offer your customers even more benefits. Not only are you providing a wonderful service, but you’ll also have the opportunity to be sociable with customers and build a rapport with them, which could, in turn, increase your sales figures.

EXPAND INTO WEEKENDS AND BEYOND Once you’ve gained some confidence from organising smaller activities, then it’s definitely worth branching out into crafting weekends and even holidays. Great ways to promote these events would be to invite an influencer along for free who would be happy to promote it on their social media channels, and to spread the word on your website and also in store. Once you start to build that community of crafters, you might find that craft getaways become an essential part of your business. holidays, particularly mothers really well for us this year. Our Some UK customers book one of our UK weekend and daughters enjoying UK embroidery retreats are also “ their craft passion together. popular, being a regular event in retreats, short-haul tours or visits to European quilt festivals, Non-crafting partners often some of our customer’s diaries. and then decide to venture further afield from there join our tours, particularly “Our friendly and ” long-haul where we always knowledgeable reservations Cyprus for the first time. In them about new tours or a We exhibit at the Festival of include visits to the main team build up a rapport with early 2021 we will be running blog and photos of tours that Quilts, Knit & Stitch at Alexandra sights of the country we are our customers, who trust us our first knitting tour to India have recently happened. We Palace and the Malvern Quilt visiting. We really try to cater to deliver a quality experience in association with KnitPro and are also very active on social Show. Shows are an opportunity for a broad range of needs. every time. We offer fully we are currently researching media, including Facebook, to meet our existing and “Some UK customers book inclusive packages; flights, many more new destinations Instagram and Twitter and potential customers and for one of our UK weekend retreats, accommodation (usually in for 2021 – keep an eye on our our experts also promote their them to meet us. In terms of short-haul tours or visits to 4-star hotels) sightseeing, tips website as we reveal more! tours on their own platforms. further promotion, we will European quilt festivals, and and activities. Some meals are “Our loyal customers are Information on all our tours soon be launching exclusives then decide to venture further included, or nearby restaurants hugely important to us, many is available on our website. with Prima Magazine and afield from there. International are suggested so people can of whom travel with us year “Our growth has largely KnitPro, and are proud guests often book without ever choose for themselves. We after year. We keep in touch come from recommendations sponsors of the British Knitting having travelled with us before. try to think of everything! “ by weekly e-shots, telling and working with great experts! & Crochet Awards 2020.” CB “Quilting and knitting are our most popular crafts. For MARKETING AND yarn lovers we travel to Ireland, PROMOTION Shetlands and Faroes every “Regarding opportunities for MORE ABOUT year, and the Baltic Cities have expansion, we will soon be recently become very popular. launching our first dressmaking ARENA TRAVEL Our French chateau retreats for retreat, that will take place next textile or yarn crafts also sell spring and there are a few other Arena Travel prides itself well, it is an idyllic location and ideas in the pipeline! In 2020 on exceptional personal the food is amazing! On the we are travelling to Uzbekistan, service and the small, long-haul side Japan is always the Noord Groningen Quilt friendly team has over popular and Uzbekistan has sold Show, Slovakia and Northern 140 years’ combined experience in travel, catering for both group and individual needs and with dedicated tour managers on almost every departure. The current portfolio offers tours and trips to destinations worldwide, including short breaks, UK itineraries and far- flung adventures, plus tours accompanied by well-known experts in a range of fields. For more information visit www.arenatravel.com

www.craftbusiness.com 36 NEW BOOKS

Fill your shelves with the latest titles that will entice loyal customers to take up a new Bookshelf craft or improve their skills

CraftBusiness EDITOR’S PICK

THE ADDICTIVE CIRCUS EMBROIDERY GEOMETRIC MANDALAS SKETCHER Relive the childhood excitement A variety of kaleidoscope-inspired This book covers pencils, of a travelling circus with this designs to help you enter a coloured pencils, selection of 12 delightful projects world of quiet relaxation. charcoal and more. that include customisation. By Jade Summer By Adebanji Alade By Susie Johns ISBN 13: 9798606722334 ISBN 13/EAN: 9781782215820 ISBN: 9781784945473 Edition: Paperback Edition: Paperback Edition: Paperback with flaps Publisher: Independently Publisher: Search Press Publisher: GMC Books published RRP: £14.99 RRP: £14.99 RRP: £4.99

Machine Embroidered Art Painting the Natural World with Needle & Thread This exciting title showcases textile artist Alison Holt’s exquisite machine embroideries, while also teaching the reader to 'paint' your surroundings using just two simple stitches. It is a must-have instructional and inspirational book for anyone interested in free-motion embroidery. In this new book, crafters can learn how MACRAMÉ HARRY POTTER MODERN WATERCOLOR to create beautiful machine-embroidered Discover the art of macrame KNITTING MAGIC: BOTANICALS: a Creative pictures of all aspects of the landscape, with 11 projects perfect This is the official guide to Workshop in Watercolor from formal gardens and flowers to for the beginner and more creating knits inspired by the This book features lessons with romantic seascapes, landscapes and advanced alike. By Tansy outstandingly popular Harry detailed instructions for all skill levels. woodlands using various combinations of Wilson & Sian Hamilton Potter films. By Tanis Gray By Sarah Simon (TheMintGardener) just two simple machine stitches. ISBN: 9781784945800 ISBN-13: 978-1911641926 ISBN: 9781944515584 Information on silk painting and colour Edition: Paperback Edition: Hardcover Edition: Hardcover mixing is also included. Publisher: GMC Books Publisher: Pavilion Publisher: Random House All the techniques are broken down into RRP: £9.99 RRP: £22.99 RRP: £25 clear, step-by-step instructions, with numerous helpful photographs and a great range of inspirational pieces. Alison 'paints' her threads on to hand-coloured backgrounds, blending her stitches and achieving stunning results. Crocheted Wreaths for the Home This book covers everything that is 12 gorgeous wreaths and 12 matching needed to complete each project, including the materials required; how to compose a mini projects for all year round picture from photographs that have This wonderful book proves that wreaths are not just for Christmas. inspired you; achieving perspective; light They can be used to decorate your home all year round! Anna Nikipirowicz and shade; painting backgrounds; and all shows you how to create sumptuous crocheted wreaths and other the basic stitch techniques you need to decorations that will grace your home and look beautiful, know. There are stunning step-by-step whatever the season. projects so that the reader can put into There is a wide variety to choose from, including spring, summer, practise their newly-acquired skills. autumn and winter wreaths, plus a gorgeous succulents wreath and Easter, Halloween and Christmas themes. These lovely yarny creations feature Publisher: Search Press flowers, leaves and other decorations such as birds, owls, pumpkins, stars, Edition: Paperback Flexi bunnies and foxes. ISBN 13/EAN: 9781782217916 Publisher: Search Press | Edition: Paperback RRP: £19.99 ISBN 13/EAN: 9781782216940 | RRP: £12.99

www.craftbusiness.com ADVERTORIAL 37

“QUALITY PRODUCTS AND REGULAR LAUNCHES ARE THE KEY TO BUILDING A LOYAL CUSTOMER BASE” Managing director Daniel Newhouse provides a masterclass on business expansion with Hunkydory’s dynamic marketing strategy

“Hunkydory started out back products, this is down to the in 1990 as a little wool and high-quality designs that needlecraft shop in Preston are still made in-house in town centre. Founded by Preston. This has helped to Ann and David Newhouse, appeal to both younger and their passion for crafting older crafters. Our products grew as they began to are very versatile and we supply papercraft products. see this with the designs our Initially they bought simple customers make, even just one peel off sentiment stickers topper sheet can have many that customers could add to different interpretations. their own handmade cards. We engage with our This developed into creating a customers across a range mail order catalogue and the of media and platforms, for ‘Cardcraft’ brand emerged, but example we have a very strong as the catalogue grew, they fanbase on Facebook and needed more supplies to fill the hold regular Facebook Lives pages. Luckily, their catalogue to showcase new launches. graphic designers were also We’re also on channels like crafting enthusiasts and were Instagram and Twitter which able to design cardmaking could be perceived as being products, too! These became for younger people. We still best-sellers for the company have a superstore in Preston and in 2007, the brand and hold regular workshops developed into ‘Hunkydory’ there for people who prefer to wholesale these designs. the social aspect of crafting. “The company has now “In terms of encouraging been running for 30 years and repeat customers, one of the is still a family-run business best ways to achieve this is based in Preston, Lancashire. to provide a combination of The success of Hunkydory has quality of products and regular been down to it moving with new launches. There is always the times, starting as a bricks something new to be inspired and mortar retailer, moving by on our website, and our into catalogue, TV and now talented creative team provide “We have expanded into Tools range, along with our 75 separate product launches digital. Staying as a family-run lots of inspiration for customers stamps and die-cutting with Prism Colouring range of planned for 2020, we will get company also means we can to encourage them to try our For the Love of Stamps inks, markers, watercolour the opportunity to cover many be very agile in our decision out new skills and projects. and Moonstone Dies ranges, pencils and more. new themes, but my personal making and processes, making Education is also key, and with both of which have gone on “This year will see us pick is the new Forever Florals KNITPROit a1.4 fast 5 COL_CRAFT moving business BIZ 05/03/2020 that 14:59our Crafting Page 1 Handbooks, we to be award-winning brands improving our collections, where we are can always adapt to change. have created an easy way for in their own right. In the range with a mix of both focusing on a new flower “I think that no matter your beginners to learn new crafts last couple of years we have die-cut and traditional every other month throughout age you can make a great card and for more experienced hands expanded into craft tools and decoupage in books and the year. Hydrangeas are or project with Hunkydory to brush up on their techniques. essentials with our Premier Craft single sheets. With over next – my favourite! CB

www.craftbusiness.com 38 RETAIL CLINIC

Sara Davies: “Boost Sales by CRAFTERS COMPANION mini_CRAFT BIZ 05/03/2020 10:04 Page 1 Building Your Brand Identity” The CEO of Crafter’s Companion explains why perfecting your brand’s personality is the key to maximising profits

Despite what the word out there. It’s incredibly cost- and what messages are most that awareness is your biggest of platforms without committing ‘brand’ means to a lot of effective and a brilliant way important to convey. Are you goal. Therefore, creating a clear to them 100%, choose a smaller people, it consists of much to establish a loyal, engaged an ethical company, do you picture of what your business number that will allow you to more than just your logo. following. However, it’s not source sustainable products, is about, what you sell and best connect with your target It should encompass your as simple as creating an do you have a family-run your target customers is vital. audience, and do them well. company ethos, the look account on every social media business or a market-disrupting Consistent graphics, colour Building your brand through and feel of your branding, platform that currently exists. product? The more concise schemes and images should social media gives you the your products or services If you are in the process the messaging is, the better. be used across the different opportunity to interact with and your target customers. of establishing social media Next, consider what you platforms, and they should your followers. Social media Social Media is a fantastic channels for your business, want to achieve from your be in-line with the branding can allow you to pick up on way of building your overall it’s important to identify platforms. If you want to used on your website and any issues or comment on any brand and getting your name what makes you different develop your brand, it’s likely marketing materials so that thoughts and ideas so it’s a great you are instantly recognisable. way to encourage feedback. As a rule, audiences naturally When customers see a brand differ across social media commenting or reacting platforms so your content to something in a timely needs to reflect this but it manner, it builds up a sense of needs to be in-line with your loyalty and trust between the brand. Make sure that the tone audience and the company. of voice is the same across Aside from being an effective every channel and that the tool for building up your brand content is engaging and with consumers, social media effective enough to achieve can also be a great way to reach your marketing goals. out to other brands. One of the It’s equally important to only first things a potential client or target social media platforms business partner will do is check that are applicable to you. Social out your social media channels to media is a powerful tool, so it’s see what sort of a company you tempting to be on every single are, what your online presence is platform out there. However, like and who your customers are. it’s important to remember that If you can demonstrate who some social media networks can you are across your social media be a passing trend. Managing channels, it can give you a strong lots of different accounts is also starting point with businesses time consuming, so instead of and influencers that you are trying to juggle a larger number keen to collaborate with. CB

www.craftbusiness.com CLASSIFIED FILLER_ADS 05/03/2020 14:55 Page 1

SHOW NEWS 39 SHOW REVIEW: CREATIVEWORLD 2020 Discover all the key findings from the world’s biggest and most important trade fair for the DIY craft sector From 25th-28th January, the emotional experiences, and three leading international additional service. This further trade fairs (Creativeworld, education offer and the Paperworld and exhibitors’ innovations attract Christmasworld) attracted top visitors from all over the around 84,000 visitors from world to Frankfurt: in addition 163 countries to the Messe to Germany, the most popular Frankfurt exhibition grounds. visitor nations include Italy, Visitors were treated to the , Great Britain, numerous innovations, unusual the USA, France and Russia. product presentations, a visitor survey conducted future-oriented complementary “In addition to the sector- by Messe Frankfurt. The programme and eye catching specific future topics, it is the satisfaction levels remain stands provided by over 3,000 high level of internationality at a very high level and are exhibitors. The international and the outstanding visitor currently at 96 percent. appeal of Creativeworld and its quality that make the trade sister shows was still consistent fair trio an indispensable The desire in society for greater this year, with figures showing platform for industry and sustainability played a major that 83% of the exhibitors were trade. Our trade fairs bring the role across all three fairs. from outside of Germany. global players in the sectors Natural materials, recycled together under one roof - in products or a reference to According to the findings the digital age, this personal resource-saving production of a survey conducted contact is the key to success were everywhere to be found by the Institute for Retail for the entire consumer goods in the exhibition . End Research (IFH), it can sector”, says Detlef Braun, users also want high-quality be seen that customers member of the management materials with a high-quality nowadays are increasingly board of Messe Frankfurt. finish. In combination with seeking information online The trade fair trio’s dark shades of blue and green and buying offline. They complementary programme as well as enhancements with want competent consulting, picks up on the social gold accents, this trend lends an CREATIVEWORLD 2021 DATES megatrends of urbanisation, elegant touch to products and New Work and individualisation, displays. Generally, the themes and positions itself as a valuable of giving and celebrating Creativeworld, Paperworld and Christmasworld will again take source of inspiration with in connection with family place next year across the following dates: practical and feasible ideas. sociability were a key theme. Christmasworld: 29 January - 2 February 2021 Enjoying memorable moments Paperworld and Creativeworld: 30 January - 2 February 2021 The fact that the trade views together, celebrating parties, Further information is available at: www.messefrankfurt.com Christmasworld, Paperworld, and sharing special moments and Creativeworld as its main are becoming increasingly Figures and findings taken from the following references: contact and order platform important as a counterbalance 2019: 3,112 exhibitors from 68 countries (FKM [German association for the voluntary control of fair and exhibition figures] certified/tested) is also confirmed by the to the digital world. 2019: 86,796 visitors from 161 countries (FKM certified/tested)

TRADE-WIRES.CO.UK For any WANTED information Fabric & regarding Haberdashery advertising in & any other craft Craft Business, clearance stock please call considered for Danielle Harris immediate on collection. 01206 505954 Please contact Martyn or email Exclusive range of craft wires and danielle.harris@ [email protected] other craft products for trade resellers. aceville.co.uk Contact: 07902 700 780 Tel: 01371 238 013

www.craftbusiness.com RICO page_CRAFT BIZ 03/03/2020 14:59 Page 1