WEST DESIGN cover_ADS 19/04/2018 17:21 Page 1 £3.50 ISSUE 131 MAY 2018 CraftBusinesswww.craftbusiness.com The leading trade title for the craft industry

INTERVIEW TRENDS CROCHET

Enter What’s setting Who casts the stationery their influence dragon on fire? over you? P22 P20 P13 2 NEWS

Welcome

z Mark Hayhurst z @craftbiz z [email protected]

z As a craft industry journalist, it’s important for me to become entrenched within the industry. It’s part of my job to know the pressures and motivators within our sector that drive every business owner, from the large manufacturers and distributors, right the way through to the bricks-and-mortar high street craft shop. Sometimes, however, it can be a breath of fresh air to momentarily get a glimpse at how the wider world sees our industry, and that was an insight I was offered when I was invited to speak on BBC Breakfast for their business segment. We filmed at the Creative Craft Show at the ExCel London and the Beeb talked about how booming the UK’s creative industries were, how we’re seeing an upsurge in younger generations taking up craft as an antidote to screen time and how suddenly, the area we’ve all been working in for years is really rather… well, cool! And it’s not hard to see why. Craft works hand-in-hand with BBC Two announces trend-creating social media, allowing makers to reach out and connect with others for advice and inspiration, or often, just to show off their brilliant projects. It was fascinating to see how slick productions like BBC return of The Great Breakfast are put together at pace, but what was even more informative was what a positive view the whole business sector has on our industry. Sure, sometimes we can become British Sewing Bee disheartened, especially in these uncertain times, but leaving the Creative Craft Show filled me with a sense of optimism. z Hit series The Great British best home sewer, and face with Joe Lycett. The series is With so many inspiring business people joining our ranks and Sewing Bee will return to BBC resident expert judges - top Savile brilliant TV filled with great craft, with the world’s spotlight firmly on us, the future of craft is looking Two next year with new host, Row tailor Patrick Grant and passionate creators and a big pretty good right now. British award-winning comedian Esme Young. dash of mischief. Whilst sad that Joe Lycett. Joe Lycett said: “My mum Claudia wasn’t able to do the The show will return for a loves this show and she’s bursting series, I’d like to thank her for fifth series on BBC2 but presenter at the seams she’s sew excited! being such a fantastic host and Claudia Winkleman will be Weave talked about it and she welcome the hugely talented Joe. ON THE RECORD replaced by stand-up comedian says I’m tailor made and I’ll have It promises to be a lot of fun.” and host of Sky One’s The Big the contestants in stitches.” Richard McKerrow, Chief “Crafting is a way of Spell, Lycett. There were doubts that the Creative Officer, Love Productions, Claudia Winkleman, who is Love Productions show would said: “We are all thrilled The Great stepping off the treadmill, stepping down from the show, ever return to the BBC after it’s British Sewing Bee will be back on slowing time down and said: “I’m so sad I can’t be part of last series in 2016. BBC Two and excited to welcome Sewing this year but know Joe The future of the show was Joe Lycett as the new host. His living in the moment will adore it. I wish the whole put in jeopardy after Love’s warmth and wit will undoubtedly by focusing on just fantastic team so much luck.” decision to move The Great delight our amateur sewers and Over eight weeks amateur British Bake Off to Channel 4. the audience when he joins judges the task in hand” sewers will be put to the test and Patrick Holland, Controller, Patrick Grant and Esme Young in take on challenges as they BBC Two said : “I am delighted the Sewing Bee haberdashery for SHEENA DOUGLASS compete to be named Britain’s that Sewing Bee will be returning a brand new series.”

MORE PEOPLE ARE TRYING TO BUY BRITISH ACCORDING TO SURVEY Gender Pay Gap reports reveals z Consumers are willing to pay more for British products according to a recent survey. The survey of over 1,000 people was carried out by Make it British, the wage inequality campaign set up by Kate Hills to encourage more people to buy British and make in the UK. z After enforcing reporting on the difference in Elsewhere, WH Smith reported no median Kate Hills said: “We wanted to find out what shoppers really think median pay between men and women, the gender pay gap, however the bonuses pay gap when it comes to buying British. This is the biggest survey of its kind and it government has revealed startling figures that between men and women was reported at gives us some valuable insights into what the British public think about throw light on the gender pay gap in the UK. 48.7%. Despite a workforce that is 65% female, buying British-made products.” Any organisation with 250 or more employees only 27% of its senior management team is The survey reveals that 50 per cent of shoppers are trying to buy more was forced to submit the figures by midnight on female, with just a third of its board made up of British-made products since the UK’s decision to leave the EU. April 4 2018 and data provided showed that as a women. It also confirms that people perceive British-made products to be whole, the UK’s pay gap has reduced in the past ten Stationery high street retailer Smiggle UK better quality and worth paying more for. Over 77 per cent of those years, but the difference still favoured men’s reported a median pay gap of 9.8%, whilst John questioned said that if they knew a product was made in Britain, they salaries. Lewis’ female workforce can expect to be paid would believe it to be of good quality. This compares to 60 per cent in a Retailer Paperchase reported a pay gap of just 7.8% less than their male counterparts. John similar survey carried out in 2013. 3%, considerably lower than the national average of Lewis Partnership’s Director of Personnel Tracy Around 93 per cent of those surveyed said they would be willing to pay 18.4%. With a mainly female workforce (80%), Killen said: “We have made good progress in more for a product made in Britain compared to buying a similar product Paperchase employs a higher proportion of women diversity and inclusion in the Partnership, so we made outside the UK. This is more than double that of the survey findings across all its pay quartiles. are encouraged to see that our gender pay gap is five years ago when 43 per cent said they would pay more for a British- A spokesperson for Paperchase said: “Women smaller than both the UK average and the retail made product. and men are paid equally for performing the same sector in general.” Kate Hills added: “This survey confirms that British-made stands for roles within our stores, distribution centre and head Gaps across the industry favoured men over quality and shoppers are willing to pay more for a product they can trust. office. There is no pay differential between men women: Ideal Shopping Direct Ltd pays its male There’s a growing desire to buy more British, but a big challenge is where and women in the lower and lower middle quartiles, staff on average 8.6% more; Hobbycraft female to find products that are made in Britain. When it comes down to building and a 1% mean differential in the upper middle pay employees can expect 4.9% less in their pay trust, knowing that a retailer is selling goods that are made in the UK is still quartile.” packets; and CDS Superstores International (or one of the main things that can give shoppers confidence in buying them.” The statement went onto say that the company The Range) pays its women staff 5.4% less. Only The Make it British Live! event on May 23-24 at The Old Truman remains committed to rewarding both men and Amazon UK bucked the trend reporting a median Brewery, London will shine the light on some great British brands and women equally, and further improving its pay gap. gender pay gap of -0.7% in favour of women. British success stories.

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 3

Create and Craft announces partnership with Personal Impressions z Create and Craft have entered into a Lindsay-Jane Vines, Create and Craft Managing partnership with one of the UK’s leading brand Director, said: “This powerful partnership between managers and distributors in the arts and crafts Create and Craft and Personal Impressions industry, Personal Impressions. promises to take the craft world by storm. Through 08 h+h cologne Specialising in papercrafts, card-making, this relationship we will be able to bring even more What went on out in Germany? scrapbooking and journaling, Personal Impressions inspiration and product innovation to the channel, represent over 70 brands. working together to not only feature Personal Their sister company, Country Love Crafts Impressions’ globally recognised brands, but also in specialises in an assortment of ready-to-decorate supporting their smaller, niche and new to market craft shapes. Combined, both organisations brands they represent too.” provide a vast product offering of over 35,000 Ray Napper, Personal Impressions Managing products covering multiple genres within the arts Director said: “Both Personal Impressions and the and crafts industry. brands we represent are very excited to be working with Create and Craft TV. The collaboration epitomises our shared values of creativity, innovation, inspiration, education and supply and 10 What’s on trend in crochet? ultimately it will be an effective way to build What is getting you hooked? business, boost awareness and break into new markets. Now enthusiasts will be able to buy craft products in their own home after watching inspirational demonstrations and in easy-to-buy bundles with the added option of payment plans.” HOBBYCRAFT PROMOTES

14 Who casts their influence DOMINIC JORDAN AS CEO over you? z Hobbycraft has promoted Dominic succeeds John future growth of the business Who are the influencers in the Dominic Jordan, its Retail Colley who left the business with the benefit of the major crochet world Operations Director, to the post last year. operational programme we of Chief Executive with The Board of Hobbycraft have just completed.” immediate effect. also confirmed the Hobbycraft Chairman Dominic, who joined appointment of Matt Davies as designate Matt Davies said: Hobbycraft in 2012, worked Chairman from May 1, 2018. “This is a unique business that previously at Pets at Home for Matt succeeds Archie Norman I have followed for many 12 years, latterly as Retail who is leaving after over four years. I look forward to Operations Director. years in the role having played working with Dominic again He said: “I am excited to a key part in the transformation and to working with the team become Hobbycraft’s CEO to of the business. to build on its success to lead a business that I know to Norman said: “Matt is a make Hobbycraft an even 20 What is hot in Stationery? have such an exceptional team highly regarded and successful greater place for crafters and Henri Davis takes a look at the and incredible range of retailer who has worked with enthusiasts alike.” trends in the stationery market

products. I look forward to some of the UK’s best known Matt Davies is currently In this issue working with them to drive retail brands. I wish him every CEO of Tesco’s UK and Irish further growth and build our success and know that he and business but will step down at customer experience in-store Dominic will have a great the end of April following its or online.” impact on the continuing merger with Booker plc. Association For Creative Creativation moves up on top US Industries Hires Seth trade show list Weisleder as Senior z Creativation, organised by The Association For published on March 19, 2018, and represents the Creative Industries (AFCI), is climbing up the top trade shows held last year in the United States Director of Sales table and upping it’s trade show ranking. ranked by net square footage. z The Association For Creative Industries The largest and longest running trade show Mark Hill, AFCI President & Chief Executive (AFCI) is pleased to announce the growth of and education conference for the creative Officer, said: “It’s a great honour to be on this list its staff with Seth Weisleder joining as industries in North America is ranked 147 on the for the seventh year in a row, especially for event’s Senior Director of Sales on March 12. In this 2017 Trade Show Network News (TSNN) Top US first year in Phoenix, Arizona. Providing a sizeable new role, Seth is responsible for the overall Trade Show List. and quality trade show for our supplier sales and sales operations of the Association. Exhibit space at Creativation 2017 increased by membership is a key focus of our staff 365 days a “Seth’s 20 plus years of experience in sales, four per cent, which moved the event’s position on year and is also something we are proud of marketing and corporate sponsorships is a huge the list up by 20 spots from 2016. The list was organizing.” Creativation 2019 will take place on January asset for the Association in achieving its sales goals, especially with 17-21, 2019, at the Phoenix Convention Center in the recent addition of In the MKNG to our event line up,” said Mark Phoenix, Arizona. Hill, President and Chief Executive Officer, AFCI. Education will begin on January 17 and the Previously, Seth worked for Worldwide Business Research, the trade show will be open January 19-21. Suppliers largest business conference company and provider of strategic and distributors of creative products that sign up business intelligence, where he held various positions since 2006, to exhibit by April 16, 2018, will receive the early most recently Head of Sponsorship, Business Development and bird rate of $1,995 per 10’x10’ booth space. To Corporate Recruitment. Also, Seth spent several years in the become an exhibitor, contact Nadine Schwartz at publishing industry as a Senior Account Executive with North [email protected] or (201) 835-1203, or visit American Media Group’s Today’s Health & Wellness and focused on www.CreativationShow.org key account management across all of their titles. TSNN is a leading news and online resource Seth holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from for the trade show, exhibition and event industry. Fairleigh Dickinson University and studied international business and For more information about the annual trade show theatre at Wroxton College. list, visit www.tsnn.com

www.craftbusiness.com 4 NEWS Get co-ordinated and keep it together Claire Hamer, Hunkydory trade sales manager, examines how to make the most out of co-ordinated ranges

❚ Personally I love products up and move them to be hands on the product. Why co-ordinated products. displayed in their product types. not run a demonstration They make it easier than ever day, a class or a make and for me to make beautiful ❚ MERCHANDISING take in store to showcase a projects and cards that look Along with displaying the co-ordinating range? You’ll balanced and well put together, products as a co-ordinating also have the opportunity without hours of decision group, it’s a great idea to make to offer the relevant upsells making! They also look great the most of a pretty collection and possibly higher ticket merchandised in store and a by displaying items made with items such as scoreboards great display is easy to create the collection and also adding or die-cutting machines. as everything matches. items that dress the area to To promote such product STOCK SHOT draw the customers’ eyes to it. groups on line, offer video ❚ HOW MUCH OF A For a pretty summer-themed content of what’s in the RANGE SHOULD I STOCK? collection, consider bunting collection, along with some When shopping as a crafter made from the product. Fairy samples projects, along with Brand New Product I’d rather have a full product lights are another easy way to full detailed “how to” projects. set from one range to pick add a little extra sparkle to an The more inspiration you Range from Claritystamp from rather than bits from area to make people look. can offer your customers the z many different ranges. If we’re more likely they are going Claritystamp are pleased to announce the launch of a brand looking at papercraft I like ❚ INTRODUCE THE RANGE to need to buy the product. new product range, Fresh Cut Dies, on May 6. the paper pad along with the TO YOUR CUSTOMERS The Botanical Apertures Collection comprises of eight deluxe, matching embellishments, How else can you get your ❚ HOW MUCH OR 4” x 4” dies, allowing the user to easily and simply create an tags, gemstones, co- customers to look at full WHAT CAN IT MAKE? elegant finished project. They have been designed to create an ordinating card stock and collections? Ensure all staff know For me this is always a great ornate aperture on a card. even better if there are dies about any deals you’re offering selling point and a reason to Barbara Gray, owner of Claritystamp, is better known for her and stamps available. and are telling customers about buy a full collection. If I can award-winning transparent stamps and more recently the Groovi these. Also tell customers in see that if I buy the bundle Parchment Art system, so is not known for using dies in her ❚ UPSELLS e-mails or pop leaflets in their offer, I’ll be able to make a artwork. However, Barbara said: “This is the best thing we have Also consider relevant upsells bags at the till. If you need large amount of cards or ever done, and I am very excited about this new strand to the that work well with a co- images of products, especially some great projects then business. In an aggressive and competitive market, I feel my best ordinated collection. If it’s got high resolution images for I’m in. I want to buy the achievement is to still be going after 25 years with innovative a shabby chic feel place some printed media, many suppliers lot. Worse than that, I need designs and products.” of your stock of kraft card and will happily supply you with to! Yes I’m a true crafter From experience, Barbara knows that it is through education bakers twine nearby, or to work these to work with you to sell at heart and if you inspire that demonstrations and workshops help to encourage sales. with spring collections look through their products. me, I will buy it, every last That is why an extensive lending library is available to all trade at placing pastel cardstock matching item. I’m not customers. and pretty co-ordinating ❚ UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL alone, so make the most of Contact Paul Church or Gemma Luxford ribbons within the offering. A great way to get customers crafters needing to have all – [email protected] or 01732 868215. interested is to let them get their the co-ordinating items. ❚ BUNDLES Bundling items into a buy it all bargain are a great way to sell equal stock holdings of a themed range and also Paper & Friends puts its cards on the table increase the basket spend of your customers. To maximise ❚ With Paper & Friends, Tendence is cards and postcards, as well as gift books “With its date in early summer, on these kind of promotions creating a new area for calendars, greetings and notebooks, in inspiring surroundings. Tendence presents an ideal ordering offer a mini bundle with a cards, stationery, gift books and notebooks. Bettina Bär, Director of Tendence, said: platform, particularly for calendars and small saving and then a larger In the heart of Hall 11.0, at Messe “With the clearly focused content and greetings cards, as well as the whole range full collection package with Frankfurt from June 30-July 3, will be the careful choice of exhibitors, we will be of Christmas stationery products.” matching upsells for a greater new address for stationery and printed offering stationery, gift and lifestyle shop Stationery companies such as Ars Vivendi, saving. Crafters love to have it products at Tendence, The Paper & Friends owners a product mix that is diverse, but Adeo Verlag, Coppenrath Verlag, Dumont all and will love it even better area will be showcasing calendars, greetings where everything goes together. Kalenderverlag, Lagom, Pabuku and Paper if they can see a saving. Moon have already expressed interest in exhibiting their products in the new ❚ KEEPING ITEMS stationery area. TOGETHER Paper & Friends is being curated and It’s important to keep the designed by Angelika Niestrath. She is an items in a collection together, expert in supplementary product ranges especially when it’s new in and displays and by no means unknown in store or on your website. this field. She already has many years’ Customers don’t want to experience in developing and implementing hunt all over to find the bits innovative exhibition concepts and, among and bobs that match. If you other things, is working with Paperworld normally display your stock by and the Frankfurt Book Fair. product type i.e. dies, stamps, Niestrath said: “Paper & Friends will papers, it’s worth using your present the different product ranges as an gondola ends to display new attractive package, like a concept store for products along with the offers specialist retailers. What is more, the you have available on them. imaginative design of the stands will After the initial launch generate impulses for creative product and when the full range is no displays in shops.” longer available, then split the

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 5

Personal Impressions appointed UK distributor STOCK for Bubbalux and Craft-Tex products z Craft-Tex have appointed something different. We are with their existing brands and SHOT Personal Impressions as its particularly excited about the extensive support network. We exclusive distributor in the UK Bubbalux range and see it as an view this very much as a long- Easy for Bubbalux and Craft-Tex exciting and innovative craft term relationship and one that will products. product for crafters, mixed media maximise the potential of these Jenny Hawkins, Sales and artists and model makers.” unique and exciting new products.” Canvas Marketing Director for Personal John Barker, marketing Bubbalux is a low-density Impressions, said: “The products manager for Bubbalux, added: “We foam PVC craft board that can be Painting from Bubbalux and Craft-Tex are delighted to be working with die-cut, embossed, painted, glued, complement our existing product Personal Impressions on these cut, stamped, waxed, inked and portfolio and yet will offer ranges and see this as a great fit screen-printed. When used with a Tutorials heat-gun it can be shaped, curled z If you are looking for and formed (and the designs will summer workshop hold shape once cooled). Unlike inspiration then check-out paper products Bubbalux is very The Craft-Tex table protectors a variety of project ideas durable and hence suited to are manufactured from incredibly including templates, long-lasting indoor and outdoor tough polycarbonate so offer step-by-step tutorials and projects. excellent yet clear protection to ongoing crafting inspiration Craft-Tex products include valuable surfaces. Their floor at www.decoart.com. protectors for both worktops and protection mats protect your hard There are projects for all floors. They are the ideal, portable floors or carpets from spills and occasions, seasons and option to shield floors and table damage caused by caster based surfaces including: wood, tops against impacts of wear and chairs. As crafting accessories metal, glass, terracotta, tear and all types of spills and go, these provide great value, ceramic, paper, plastic, damages. Heat-resistant (up to long-term, protection from a canvas, fabric, foam, 100°C). multitude of crafting activities. masonry, stone or natural surfaces. The Vintage Radio project can be found at: AFCI CEO recognized as Trade https://decoart.com/project/ STOCK SHOT vintage-radio (designed by Micaela Spiggle). Association Spokesperson For DecoArt supplies z Unicorn SPiT’s Gel Stain and Glaze in One has z The Association For Creative Industries (AFCI) President and contact Country Love gone crazy on social media and now it is Chief Executive Officer, Mark Hill has received an Honourable Crafts on 01235 861700, coming to the UK! Mention in the first ever SPOKEies Awards in the Non-Profit visit www. This water-based colour can be used as a Trade Association category. countrylovecrafts.com paint, antiquing tint or simply dilute with water to The SPOKEies Awards honours the best in-house or email sales@ create a gel, glaze/stain or wash. It penetrates deep into bare spokespeople for their ability to achieve organizational goals while countrylovecrafts.com. wood grain or glazes over existing finishes. It also brightens and communicating honestly and effectively with their constituents. highlights chalk paint and provides a 3D dimensional effect. Use Hill is recognized for expanding and strengthening AFCI’s position on wood, glass, metal, fabric, pottery, wicker, concrete and as a thought-leader and business catalyst for its membership laminate. Can be used indoors or outdoors. through the rebranding of the Association; Creativation, its annual For supplies contact Personal Impressions on 01787 375241, trade show; and Gradient, its quarterly magazine. visit www.personalimpressions.com or email “Thank you to the SPOKEies Awards judges for this incredible [email protected]. honour,” said Hill. “My role as AFCI’s spokesperson entails two things; first, listening to our membership, and then second, giving Credit: Mark Montano a genuine and transparent response. It’s important to understand your audience’s wants, needs, and pain points to effectively engage them in a conversation about your company.” Hill first joined the AFCI as the interim head of the organization in August 2015. After only a few months, the AFCI Board of Directors appointed him as President and Chief Executive Officer so he could pursue his vision. With a 20-year tenure in the creative industry, he naturally became the Association’s spokesperson. NEEDCRAFT 1.4 5 COL_ADS 08/03/2018 12:27 Page 1 Having been a member for many years and also serving on the AFCI Board of Directors, he understands the concerns of the Credit: Micaela Spiggle membership community.

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www.craftbusiness.com 6 NEWS

z STRETCH TAPE New from Vlieseline, Stretchfix is stretch webbing on a backer paper, A change of name but ideal for jersey and other stretch fabrics. Because of the high elasticity of this adhesive web, the natural ease of your stretch fabric is maintained and it provides a perfect bond for appliqué and for fusing two fabrics together. Stretchfix is available by the metre (30cms wide), or as a 5m length tape in a pre-pack. no change in quality The Stretchfix Tape (T30) is 3cms wide and provides an easy, effective way to achieve a soft hem in stretchy garments without Take a look at some of the products affecting the appearance of the fabric. For ironing on motifs or laminating two fabrics without losing Vlieseline has to offer its customers bond strength then buying a 5m roll width is the best option. Length 5m, width 30cm.

• To find out more about these new Vlieseline products, please visit http://www.vlieseline.com/en • For orders please call Groves on 01844 258080 or email [email protected]

z For decades the name Vilene, now Vlieseline, has been synonymous with interfacings. As the leading brand and the manufacturer of quality interfacings they want to ensure that you’re getting the best possible product from the Vlieseline range for your makes – because their brand name is iconic and you can be sure their products are not just a generic. Make sure you are getting the brand in your shops by asking for the Vlieseline brand. Here are some of their new products: ❚ DIY PILLOW KIT Making a beautiful embroidered pillow, with the interfacing pre-cut and ready, is so easy using this new Vlieseline kit, all you need is the fabric of your choice! It includes step-by-step, illustrated instructions and a choice HUNKYDORY 1.8 2 col_ADS 20/04/2018 10:54 Page 1 of six gorgeous embroidery patterns suitable for both hand and machine embroidery. At RRP £18.75 per kit it also makes a perfect gift for friends. Contents include: ❚ Vlieseline interfacings - L11, Solufix and Decowadding ❚ Illustrated instruction leaflet ❚ Six patterns on water soluble transfer paper and include butterflies, flowers and “Love” and “Home” Motifs ❚ Cushion pad not included

z DIY PUMP BAG KIT Making an embroidered bag could not be easier with interlining pre-cut and ready to assemble, all you need is the fabric! Contents include: ❚ Vlieseline Decovil Light and Solufix ❚ Illustrated instruction leaflet ❚ Six embroidery patterns on transfer paper including; kingfisher, elephant, flowers, dream catcher and “Love is in the air”. z NEW SEAM TAPE FLEXIBLE (T15) This lightweight, fusible woven tape is cut on the bias making it bi-elastic and thus very well suited for jersey and other stretchy fabrics. Seam Tape Flexible prevents warping and fraying and can also be applied to curved shapes to provide the necessary support and stability. Available in white, charcoal and black, this Alice Caroline Quilt SOS exhibition versatile tape is 1.5cm wide. at The Festival of Quilts ❚ Liberty fabric specialists Alice Caroline will be displaying some of the work created for their 2018 Quilt SOS initiative at this year’s The Festival of Quilts. Launched by Alice Caroline owner Alice Garrett two years ago, Quilt SOS makes beautiful handmade Liberty quilts for children that have lost their families and are living in SOS Children’s Villages around the world. The 2018 project aims to create 66 quilts – one for every child in the SOS Children’s Village in Krasnik in Eastern Poland. An exhibition of some of the quilts will be on display at The Festival of Quilts in August before they leave for Krasnik later this year. Packs cost £67.60 and include Liberty fabric In 2017, Alice Garrett hand-delivered 83 Quilt fat or long quarters for a quilt top and an entry SOS project quilts to children living in an SOS form. Quilts donated using the Quilt SOS pack Children’s Village in Vilnius, Lithuania. She says: will receive a £30 voucher to use on the Alice “The beds were neatly made with brown blankets Caroline website. Alternatively, makers can make and it wasn’t hard to imagine the new quilts quilts from their own stash of Liberty fabric. Only decorating the rooms and giving so much colour Liberty fabrics (including quilting collection where there was none. We met some extremely cottons) or Liberty fabrics mixed with up to 50 vulnerable young people and so it felt like a very per cent plains can be used and quilts must be worthwhile project to have undertaken. single sized only Width: 51″ – 54″ ; Length: 81″ “We are so happy that we can support the – 90″ / Width: 129cm – 137cm ; Length: 205cm making of these quilts by subsidising the cost of – 228cm). the fabric.” The deadline for submissions for Quilt SOS Quilters and quilting groups interested in 2018 for display at The Festival of Quilts is taking part can purchase a Quilt SOS pack from Friday, July 6, 2018. The final submission date the Alice Caroline website for 2018 before dispatch to Krasnik is Friday, (www.alicecaroline.co.uk). September 21.

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 7

Hantex launch campaign to Sew For The Ocean

z Hantex are campaigning recognise that “plastic is the to reduce plastic waste new sewage” and is the biggest in the ocean. The recent threat to our beaches and media coverage regarding precious marine eco-systems. plastics and general waste in Smith added: “To coincide our oceans is an issue that with our sponsoring of the Row Hantex feel strongly about. For The Ocean team, we have Jacqui Smith, Hantex launched our own campaign director, said: “As a wholesaler, called Sew For The Ocean, an we here at Hantex feel we inspiring programme which should be doing something aims to encourage those in to help reduce plastic waste the sewing community to do within the sewing industry. whatever they can to use lower For our part we’re sponsoring impact products, to recycle the Row For The Ocean and reuse. That includes (www.rowfortheocean.co.uk) manufacturers, wholesalers, transatlantic rowing team retailers and consumers - who are raising awareness of everyone counts! However, due the plastics in our oceans.” to the scale of the problem The team of four women will we all need to work together take part in the 2018 Atlantic and we are encouraging Challenge and row over 3,000 anyone who has an idea on miles, raising as much money recycling to submit it via as possible for Surfers Against our forum by going to www. Smith said: “It is our aim to Wherever possible we always dyes, or meet the Global Sewage (SAS). Since they were sewfortheocean.com - all ideas encourage all our customers reuse polythene that fabric is Organic Textile Standard founded in 1990, SAS have been and suggestions are welcome!” to re-use our packaging where packaged in and, if we can’t, and Confidence in Textiles. the main drivers in the battle to The website also has ever possible - you will be we send it to Polyprint, one of Sew For The Ocean is an clean up European coastlines links to companies that can seeing our little sticker a lot! If the few polythene recycling ongoing, long-term campaign and beaches resulting in the EU recycle many everyday items you re-use our packaging, keep companies in the UK (www. and we are happy to share Clean Water Bathing Directive which the majority of local the sticker on it and this may polyprint.co.uk/recycling). our ideas with anyone so IMPRESSwhich ART has1.2_ADS been key18/04/2018 in making 14:51 Pageauthorities 1 are unable to accept encourage your customers to “In regards to our fabrics, please join in and be part of seawater safe for swimming - one example being the very also re-use it, or at least think we stock many ranges that this journey by visiting www. and watersports. SAS now popular coffee capsule. twice before disposing of it. are made using low impact sewfortheocean.com.”

www.craftbusiness.com 8 TRADE SHOW NEWS

Another successful year for h+h cologne High levels of international visitors and exhibitors underpinned the trade show’s impressive results from 2017 z It was another successful competence of the trade visitors of the Initiative Handarbeit e.V. year for h+h cologne 2018. was extremely high once again. A turnover of 450 million euros In total, around 16,000 visitors Over 78 per cent of the visitors was made on fabrics alone from 73 countries attended with stated, in a survey, that they (2016: Euro 465 million). The down compared to last year perfectly to match the changed 423 companies exhibiting. have a significant influence turnover figures for sewing (2016: Euro 1.25 billion). market environment.” This year 115 German on the procurement decisions machines is a further indication The handicraft scene has However, Ehlen also added companies and 308 firms from within their companies. that the sewing boom of the changed significantly over that working closely with the abroad presented their current Handicrafts are still one of past years is still ongoing: They the past years, it has become trade is also important for future products and services to the the most popular leisure time rose from 170 million euros in younger, more fashionable development: “The industry trade audience. The strongest activities. Almost two thirds 2016 up to175 million in 2017. and more diversified. On the and bricks-and-mortar trade country participations after of German women engage in The results of the survey one side there are the DIY have to cooperate closely German were Italy and Great handicrafts at least now and were further confirmed by fans who have extensive together and provide DIY fans Britain with 29 exhibiting again, according to the study current market figures that were knowledge, invest much time with innovative inspirations companies apiece, followed and want to achieve the most and impulses. Accordingly, by Turkey with 28 and the USA professional results possible. the Initiative Handarbeit has with 26 exhibitors. The share “Many companies demonstrated On the other side there is a already introduced offers to of foreign exhibitors lay at a large group of people who like its programme to support the very good 73 per cent again. at h+h cologne that they have experimenting, enjoy trying specialised trade with future Katharina C. Hamma, chief adapted their products and out something new and like sales and marketing campaigns.” operating officer of Koelnmesse to be able to hold the finished The next h+h cologne GmbH, said: “The industry’s most services perfectly to match the product in their hand quickly. will take place from important decision-makers from This was also clearly March 29–31, 2019. all over the world don’t come changed market environment.” noticeable at h+h cologne. together in this quality at any Visitors praised the quality of other event. As such, h+h cologne HEDI EHLEN, CHAIRMAN OF THE TRADE FAIR COMMITTEE the company presentations has confirmed its outstanding OF THE INITIATIVE HANDARBEITSAID and affirmed that the trade position as an export-oriented top fair had a young, dynamic trading place for the industry.” carried out by GfK Nuremberg announced at h+h cologne. The and fresh appearance. In terms of the level of on handicraft usage behaviour overall market for handicraft Hedi Ehlen, chairman of internationality, h+h cologne was in Germany. According to GFK, supplies in Germany for the Trade Fair Committee of able to underpin its impressive the most frequently practised 2017 is estimated to be 1.22 the Initiative Handarbeitsaid, results of past years. At 38 per hobby is sewing at 40 per cent, billion euros, measured in end said: “Many companies cent, the share of trade visitors followed by knitting at 28 per consumer prices. The market demonstrated at h+h cologne from abroad was, as last year, cent according to the results of volume remains at a high level that they have adapted very good. The decision-making the survey carried out on behalf and the results are only slightly their products and services

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Unicorns: Unicorn Corki by AradiyaToys What is going to get you hooked? VIRIDIAN 1-8 2 col_VIRIDIAN 08/11/2017 13:23 Page 1 Merion Willis, blog editor for lovecrochet.com, takes a look at the hot trends in crochet

z Crochet and creativity go design. Complex cables, clever Gone are the days when hand in hand. There’s no other use of bobbles, puff stitches crochet was limited to mostly yarn craft that offers such and broomstick lace are used cotton and a few DK acrylics – glorious freedom – the joy to create drama in garments this year we’ve seen crocheters of choosing colours, stitches as well as in homeware. experimenting with every and yarn and the clever Complex afghan and blanket different kind of yarn, from construction that lets you curl patterns use layered floral the finest mohair to super around corners and transform techniques to create depth, chunky brights. Ribbon, jersey any yarn into homeware, mixed with fabulous mosaic and tape yarns have burst on garments and accessories. colour work (using the crochet to the crochet scene but not Wearable: The This year is bursting with tapestry technique) and just for rugs and bags, but for Dwell Sweater new trends already, from overlay stitches resulting in garments too! Cool cotton tape crochet pattern by Jess Coppom complex cables to fade out a riot of colour and texture. yarns make fabulous warm Make and Do Crew ombres, playing with colour Cabled aran sweaters and weather vests, tops and totes repeats and building layers. cardigans, once the province – easy to wear and easy to of knitters, have been shining wash – these deliciously soft z IT’S ALL ABOUT through the colder months in yarns are light work and easy THE TEXTURE… chunky and super chunky yarns, on the hands. The message this Crochet designers are using using post stitches to create year, is that you can crochet fabulously complex stitches glorious cabling capturing all with absolutely any yarn, and in their work to create texture the depth and warmth of these it’s fun to combine them, too! UK Distrubutor for: Sock Yarn Specialists – particularly in garment classic design features. • Opal • Eucalan z CROCHET COLOUR There is nothing the crochet Texture: Goldenrod world loves more than colour sweater by – and gradient yarn cakes are ElevenHandmade working their magic throughout the crochet community. Long and short colour repeats are transformed into stunning shawls, scarves and garments with no ends to sew in, and gradient yarns are popular in all weights, from fine 4ply cottons to cosy chunkies. Clever crocheters are making these variegated yarns work their own way too, manipulating the colour repeats to create plaid effects. As crocheters explore yarn ranges that are new, so the colour palettes are changing. Knitting Needles & Accessories TRADE ENQUIRIES: Pastels are including muted E: [email protected] T: 0117 300 5244 shades and neutrals, brights www.viridianyarn.com are blending with jewels and heathered shades.

www.craftbusiness.com CROCHET 11

Not only are crocheters Colour: Paintbox turning to vibrant shades, Yarns Chunky Pots we’ve also seen a trend KNITPRO 1.4 2 col_ADS 20/04/2018 09:35 Page 1 towards neutral shades, Crochet Facts especially in wearable z The Guinness World Record for the largest ever crochet garments, with bloggers like blanket is held by Subashri Natarajan, of India. She had Make & Do Crew and Sewrella the help of over 1,000 people to combine hundreds of setting the stage for this. 40x40 inch sections to complete the blanket which measured approximately 120,000 square feet. z MAKING IT WEARABLE Modern crochet has kicked z The earliest crochet patterns were printed in 1823 in off its 1970s vibe garment the Dutch magazine Penélopé. heritage, as more and more z The earliest dated English reference to garments made designers are working on of cloth produced by looping yarn with a hook — creating garments inspired shepherd’s knitting — is in, The Memoirs of a Highland by today’s catwalk and Lady, by Elizabeth Grant (1797–1830). modern knitwear design. Construction is changing – z Crochet comes from the French term tricoter des we’re seeing a rise in garments torchons en laine which means making dishcloths from crafted in the round; seamless wool. construction is becoming z The first crochet hooks were made from hardened mud, the preferred method with no but were replaced with carved volcanic rock, then sewing up to finish – in a similar replaced by fish bones and then by aluminium. vein to the love of join-as-you- go motifs for favourite afghan z During the Great Potato Famine in the 1840’s in Ireland, patterns. Mirroring the structure families looked to sell their crochet to feed themselves. of knitted garments, we love the use of solid stitching with lace panel and colourwork features around necklines and sleeves, creating cardigans and jumpers that can be worn alone rather than as simple coverups. Pattern writing has changed, along with construction, and more “Gone are the days when attention is being paid to gauge/tension and crochet was limited to detail. Patterns are more comprehensive, including mostly cotton and a few DK schematics and photography, acrylics – this year we’ve seen but we are seeing the return of crochet chart popularity crocheters experimenting for those crafters who prefer a visual aid. Thanks to the with every different kind of introduction of intarsia colourwork, mainstream colour yarn, from the finest mohair charts are common place too. Stitch dictionaries are to super chunky brights” becoming favourite collectables – exploring complex stitches inspired by cinema, and the list – and these little motifs are and marrying them together love of mermaids is still strong, still as popular as ever, with with new yarn and techniques, with an accent on playing with new style squares designed all or making them feature fashion yarn that uses flashes of the time. This fabulous classic panels in designs – crochet metallic. Sea creatures too, are shows no sign of slowing down, has become thoroughly favourites for amigurumi, along with modular afghans still an modern with a nod to vintage with a love of miniature details essential crochet project to stitches at the same time! and tiny clothes for little animals. complete. We love the trend for For colder months, summer garden versions of the working in super chunky yarn z DON’T FORGET GRANNY! classic cosy blanket - gentle for garments has been very Granny squares will never be pastels for garden picnics, popular, thanks to designers far from a crocheter’s project in soft, washable cotton! creating patterns for garments that can be made quickly. A super chunky sweater can be created in a couple of days (or less) or a cowl or hat in an hour. The trend for working in chunky and super chunky yarn has created a popular following, especially for new crafters. Accessories are constantly popular – but not just the usual hats and scarves – shawls have taken the crochet world by storm – a trend that began quietly a couple of years ago is thriving in 2018, and we expect to see shawls crocheted in yarns traditionally chosen by knitters such as luxury hand-dyed merino and silk yarns, alpaca and yak. z UNICORNS, MAGIC AND MERMAIDS… Magic is still a popular theme Popcorn Garden for amigurumi; rainbows Granny Blanket by Crochet by and unicorns are still hugely RedAgape popular. Magic-themed patterns

www.craftbusiness.com 12 CROCHET Forty Years of the Knitting & Crochet Guild Juliet Bernard, a member of the Knitting & Crochet Guild, explains the history and the future of the organisation

z Forty years may not seem had lost some of their appeal. ‘Preserve the best of the old interested organisations alike. very old for a Guild, indeed Parents had all been involved, whilst exploring the new’, an aim One of our main challenges is some can trace their history one way or another, with the that still has resonance today. to find a permanent home for back to the middle ages, but the war and its aftermath, altering By 1983 the Guild library had all the knitted and crocheted Knitting & Crochet Guild has these family traditions. been set up, to catalogue a rich items, patterns, books and established a very important In Preston, Alec Dalglish history of patterns and books. accessories that we have. place in the craft community of the Knitting Craft Group Over the years this has grown Currently our volunteers work in just four short decades. instigated a meeting of machine in to a significant archive and from a former textile warehouse It began in the autumn of knitters, hand knitters and collection. The oldest item is a that has no heating so the 1978, in a very different social crochet workers to see if there nightcap from 1826, but there Yorkshire winters can be a climate than we have today. were ways to form a group are other notable pieces such as challenge. So far over 50,000 The traditional crafts that had with similar interests, and so a petticoat crocheted by Queen patterns have been catalogued been passed down across the the Knitting & Crochet Guild Mary, the first issues of Weldons and over 2,000 artefacts KING COLE 1.8 3 COL_CRAFTS BUSINESS 19/04/2018generations 15:32 Page within 1 families was formed taking as its motto and Woman’s Weekly, iconic have been accessioned. knits donated by Guild Patron, Today the Guild has over Kaffe Fassett, and the entire 800 members from all over Patons archive, generously given the world who come together to members by Mez Crafts. But with a shared passion to the collection is also a home protect the future of our craft. for beautiful creations made by As well as a regular journal, shared projects offer a unique everyday knitters and crocheters, packed with articles there is a resource and a gateway to the which find their way to the Guild, very useful website and active heritage of our crafts. In fact donated by family members social media groups. Themed any existing knitting or crochet groups out there are welcome to join the Guild and enjoy all the “Today the Guild has over 800 benefits membership can bring. The internet has made members from all over the a huge difference to how world who come together with accessible we have become to knitters and crocheters and a shared passion to protect the how we are able to share the collection with them. Alongside future of our craft” this the Knitting & Crochet Guild attends a number of events all who want their loved one’s trunk shows of carefully curated over the country with the aim skills to find a permanent home items are available on request of passing on skills and love of where they can be treasured. and our volunteers and experts craft to a new generation. Some Every time I visit, there is have been around the UK taking of you may already be individual something new and extraordinary the Collection to schools, members of the Knitting & to see and marvel over. libraries and museums. Crochet Guild, but you may not The Collection is an Increasing membership know that we offer a special ongoing project intended to is an important goal for the membership for yarn shop document our rich traditions Guild’s committee, who are all owners. For the same price as and keep them safe for the volunteers with a passion for an individual membership, your future generations. The Guild their craft but who also bring a outlet’s details will be added to is currently seeking funding to range of skills and experiences our website and you will enjoy all digitise the Collection to make for to the organisation. Currently, the other aspects of belonging to easier access to members and we have over 30 branches that our Guild including the special have active knitting groups which anniversary collection of designs meet regularly, but we know there we are currently putting together. are members ready to start up The Knitting & Crochet Does your Shop have a Craft Department? more groups. Guild branches Guild website is www.kcguild. Have you thought about adding Knitting Supplies offer more than “Knit & Knatter” org.uk where you can find out to your store? workshops, illustrated talks and more details about how to join. For 1 metre of space, you could have the Yarn as shown in the picture, plus 21 Pattern Leaflets and a selection of Needles. Total Cost = £512.95 | Total RRP = £1220.90 Total Profit = £707.95 Stand, Pattern Book & Needle Rack all supplied Free of Charge with order. T: 01756 703670 E: [email protected] W: kingcole.com Join us on Social Media

www.craftbusiness.com CROCHET 13 Who casts their influence over you? Angela Sara West chats with some of the world’s most influential crocheters about their passion for the loop-the-loop craft.

z Are you loopy for crochet? From CALs (crochet-along projects) to Japanese amigurumi techniques and trends, by “hook or by hook” we’ll keep you in the loop. With countless crochet communities cropping up and designs by Dior and Dolce & Gabbana hooking everyone in as they crocheted their way down spring/summer 2018 catwalks, the comeback craft is now officially cool. And there are many people who are promoting the craft to the public. In no particular order…

ROHN STRONG - ROHN STRONG DESIGNS SARAH-JAYNE FRAGOLA - BELLA COCO z Award-winning American crochet designer/author/ z Nottingham-based full-time content creator, instructor/broadcast personality/internationally- Sarah-Jayne Fragola, is the brains behind renowned blogger, Rohn Strong, discovered his above-mentioned Bella Coco, a comprehensive passion for crocheting at just eight-years-old. hub for “all of your crochet needs”. “My mother was crocheting an afghan and gave up. Her much-loved YouTube crochet tutorials I picked up her book and taught myself! I was off to have made her a favourite of the crochet world, the races…” and she’s racked up over 400k subscribers and a Published in practically every crochet magazine whopping 46m views since 2014. With a further 30k Stateside, he’s the crochet and loom knitting expert on PBS’s followers across Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and a Emmy-nominated Knit and Crochet Now! TV series and a designer for Facebook group with 60k and growing, the Bella Coco crochet major brands including Lion Brand Yarn, Red Heart Yarns and Premier community is teeming with creative and inspiring people. Yarns. With over 300 designs, four online classes and five best-selling Sarah-Jayne loved arts and crafts as a child and has always books, he’s loved for his accessible,CYGNET inclusive YARNS and patient 1.8 2 col_ADS approach 20/04/2018 to 11:36enjoyed Page experimenting. 1 “I’ve tried my hand at crochet, sewing, knitting, motivating, nurturing and inspiring via print, video and social media. card making and jewellery making. I find inspiration in pretty much He started Rohn Strong Designs in 2010 due to the lack of creative, anything! I love reading other blogs, browsing Pinterest and interacting contemporary and colourful crochet designs. Bringing new and exciting with the lovely world of Instagram.” techniques to the modern crocheter, Rohn’s now at the forefront of the Accolades include winner of ‘Best Lifestyle Blog’ & ‘Content Creator crochet community. “I’ve made it my mission to create inventive designs of the Year’ at the 2017 UK Blog awards and finalist for ‘Best Lifestyle that bring a bit of beauty to every crochet hook, pushing the boundaries Influencer’ at the Cosmopolitan Influencer Awards 2016. Her lifestyle of the craft in directions previously unseen. The ability to create a unique blog about her personal life inspires over 70k followers across textured fabric really intrigues people! I love the online community of Instagram, Facebook and YouTube. crocheters that I meet teaching, and hope it continues to grow with the “My viewers often say that they like my style and speed, which is same vigour and gusto.” what keeps them coming back for more. I was also one of the first Inspired by Japanese crochet/knitting, he’s currently enjoying the online teachers to include both UK and US crochet terms, which I feel resurgence of Tunisian crochet. was a great advantage as it can be very confusing to beginners.” “While its roots may be mostly unknown, its future is bright!” Projects Bella Coco also have easy-to-follow PDF patterns plus an eBook, in the pipeline include his book on shawls, published in May, and an too, and there’s a dedicated store at LoveCrochet.com. Left-handed? No autumn collection, launching in September. His favourite thing to problem! Sarah-Jayne’s even created left-handed versions of some of crochet? “Socks. Hands down.” And fave make? “A rauna/wrap I her videos just for you! crocheted for Inside Crochet magazine. It used the Tunisian Crochet YouTube: 400k subscribers & 46m views Colourwork technique I developed!” Facebook, Twitter & Instagram: 85k+ combined followers Instagram: 2.75k followers (both crochet and lifestyle) Facebook: 3k fans / 600 group members Websites: www.bellacococrochet.com (crochet) Website: https://rohnstrong.com www.bellacoco.co.uk (lifestyle)

EDWARD GRIFFITH, CHERRY FREEMAN & NIGEL WHITEOAK LOVECROCHET Whopper Cotton z Pioneering the online craft world, long- standing colleagues, Edward Griffith, Cherry Freeman and Nigel Whiteoak, launched the unique e-commerce and dynamic craft platform LoveCrochet as part of the LoveCrafts family after seeing the makers they loved struggling to find crochet materials and patterns. “We focus on the joy crochet brings to crafters. From learning the basics and inspiration from designers, to choosing yarn and supplies and crafting and sharing with other makers around the world, our ethos is simple; be inspired, exclusive collaboration with leading crochet guru connect, share and create!” and vlogger Bella Coco!” The London-based crafting community and With its websites LoveCrochet.com and marketplace is known for its “disruptive business LoveKnitting.com attracting millions of visitors model”, reviving the crochet scene for today’s every month, phenomenally-successful LoveCrafts digital audiences. Rather than focus purely on the has experienced exponential growth in the recent digital shopfront, the one-stop-shop engages with renaissance of the craft industry. It now distributes makers at every stage of their craft journey, and to customers in over 100 countries worldwide and the passionate management team has built a global expansion has seen offices open in Kiev wonderful community, supporting and uniting and New York. “With a thriving community of 174k ORDER ONLINE: www.cygnetyarns.com makers around the globe. Instagram and 72k Facebook followers, too, there’s At the centre of the crafting community, the never been a better time to get hooked!” 01274 743374 world’s first dedicated crochet site profiles Instagram: 174k followers [email protected] popular crochet brands and suppliers, along with Facebook: 72k followers Cygnet Yarns Ltd, 12‐14 Adelaide Street, independent designers. “Look out for our Website: www.lovecrochet.com Bradford, BD5 0EA

www.craftbusiness.com 14 CROCHET

HEATHER LEAL – THE PATCHWORK HEART SARAH SHRIMPTON z - ANNABOO’S HOUSE Doncaster-based former maths teacher, Heather’s blog on Heather Leal, retired two years ago due to z Sussex-based blogger, her website, The freelance crochet designer ill health and turned her “crochet therapy” Patchwork Heart, into her new full-time occupation. “My and author of Beginner’s has grown so large Guide to Crochet and mum taught me to make granny squares it’s now a community, as a child and those skills lay dormant for Supersize Crochet, Sarah providing her and Shrimpton has been described many years.” others with an extensive Eight years ago, her husband as a “crochet rock star”. network of crochet friends worldwide. “I’ve Designing for DMC Creative World and some encouraged her to craft again and the tapped into a wonderful, supportive and former quilter converted to crochet. Living of the UK’s leading crochet and craft magazines, caring crochet community and now have including Inside Crochet, Simply Crochet, Crochet with a chronic illness, Heather says it’s friends with whom I chat each day.” given her a reason to get up each day. Now and Let’s Get Crafting, along with monthly The florals fan shares her colour crochet subscription service, Little Box of “Crochet appealed to my mathematical recipes and provides free help, along with brain, was relaxing, portable and didn’t take Crochet, she has also featured in The Sunday words of encouragement through her love Telegraph’s Crafting and Collecting series and on me away from my family. The rhythmic of mugs. “I have a popular spot posting action and counting of crochet demands Craft Daily TV. inspirational quotes. It’s become my A Stylecraft Yarns Blogstar, she has also your concentration, providing hours of trademark to post daily mug shots with my escapism and colour therapy.” contributed to Hobbycraft, SewandSo and mug matching my crochet!” LoveCrochet.com blogs. Her own blog about all The crochet artist now uses her Heather’s beautiful blog offers not only teaching skills in a different way; inspiring things crochet, Annaboo’s House, was recently a daily burst of colour, giving her numerous voted sixth in the Top Crochet Blogs by Feedspot. others to crochet away. Instagram and Facebook fans their “The craft brings me such joy and “After teaching myself to crochet a few years crochet inspiration fix, but a wealth of ago, I quickly realised that I liked to tinker around satisfaction and it’s my pleasure to share information, including free step-by-step my love of colour and crochet to encourage with patterns and, before long, was designing for tutorials for learning new techniques. Her myself. People seemed to like what I was making and inspire, so that others may also enjoy Facebook group is a fast-growing its benefits.” and I started writing the patterns and selling community of like-minded people sharing them.” Alongside patterns, she sells natural photos of their work inspired by Heather’s hand-dyed yarn in her Etsy shop. “But I still like to colourful creations. “It’s a place where offer free patterns on my blog; it’s my way of people make friends with other crochet thanking my loyal followers and customers.” enthusiasts and enjoy sharing their Sarah’s YouTube tutorials for beginners crochet struggles and triumphs.” demonstrate how to make the basic crochet She’s also a proud Stylecraft Blogstar stitches, while her Amigurumi Monkey tutorial is and Etsy seller and is dotty about blanket guaranteed to give you a cheeky crochet kick! making. “I just love the tessellating shapes 2018 has exciting things in store for Sarah. and am fascinated by the possible “I’m always busy and have lots of projects combinations and permutations of the coming up, including an online magazine launch colours!” and a new book!” Facebook: 223.5k followers Instagram: over 47k followers Facebook group: 8.7k members Blog: annabooshouse.blogspot.co.uk Instagram: 14.5k followers Website: www.thepatchworkheart. co.uk MARI-LIIS LILLE - LILLELIIS z Former piano teacher, Mari-Liis Lille, fell in love with amigurumi when KATH WEBBER – A LIFE IN STITCHES expecting her third child. She began her own craft business and has been designing amigurumi toys since 2009. “There`s something calming in repeating z Crochet designer/author/features writer, Kath Webber, was taught movements and counting stitches. I never knew a craft form could be my greatest to crochet in 2009. “I loved exploring colour and fibre as I learnt my self-realisation!” new hobby, and began to read blogs such as Attic24, Yvestown and Her company, Lilleliis, is the first, and probably biggest, company specialising in Dottie Angel for tips and inspiration. I often turned to these designers crochet toys and patterns in her native Estonia. “Initially, the main focus was on the (Lucy, Yvonn and Tif respectively) for weekly inspiration and learned so handmade toys but, under the pressure of my fans, I soon started writing instructions much from their different styles and colour palettes.” in both Estonian and English to sell worldwide. My patterns were a great success, so She started her own blog, Inverleith (named after her Edwardian house in the focus slowly moved towards more designing and pattern writing.” Essex), in 2011, creating simple tutorials for her own patterns, alongside teaching crochet Her website offers free patterns, tips and tutorials, while Mari-Liis and her three workshops at a local craft business. “I loved making blankets and cushions, exploring the skillful helpers produce popular toys combining amigurumi with teddy bear tradition for colours of cottons and acrylics, and using simplified versions of vintage patterns to make the web shop, which also sells craft supplies. She also has a new book in the works. 60s-inspired things.” Her book, 500 Crochet Blocks, explores those themes. “I still love Facebook: Over 20K followers creating homewares and accessories and have designed some really fun pieces for Instagram: 31K followers magazines and books.” www.lilleliis.com Kath’s ultimate inspiration is the 1960s and 1970s. “They were really the heyday of crochet and I love the visuals from those decades. From dreamy, soft-focus photography and Wes Anderson colour palettes, to mid-century textiles and furniture, they all influence my designs. My favourite piece is a mustard kimono-style garment I designed last JANE CROWFOOT autumn. With its 70s colour, vintage-inspired lace motif and fringing, it’s got everything I – JANIE CROW want from crochet!” z She enjoys working with different natural fibres, such as combining mohair with London-based designer, Jane merino wool and working cables into crochet to create interesting texture. “I also LOVE Crowfoot, was recently voted the crochet colour work. There’s something immensely satisfying about creating a chart, UK’s favourite crochet designer dreaming up colour combinations and working the intricate yarn changes to create at the Craft Awards. She and something new and interesting. I’ve recently taken on a new role as a commissioning husband/partner Andy run an online editor at Inside Crochet magazine and am looking forward to working with crochet store and studio and are on a mission to combinations. “Crochet provides me designers around the world to dream up wonderfully-creative content.” inspire yarnaholics around the world to with the opportunity to work in an “Being my own business is something I don’t really think about so much as feel things give new techniques and trends a try organic and experimental way to create out as I go along. It’s incredibly freeing, and I feel invigorated and inspired that other with their range of exciting project motifs and patterns, which can be women like me are redefining success in business in their own terms.” designs and products, many of which Instagram: Over 5k are unavailable elsewhere. clearly recognised as my style. I always Blog: http://kathwebbercrochet.blogspot.co.uk Although originally trained as a try to design from scratch, looking machine knit designer, Jane progressed forward to really pushing the boundaries to crochet design around ten years ago of the craft, rather than reverting to retro and the couple established Janie Crow in clichés and indolent design.” 2011. Offering free patterns, CALs and Keen to rid crochet of its ‘Granny’ Jane’s blog, “We also sell crochet image, she enjoys giving crochet patterns, kits, notions and accessories.” creations a modern-day spin, alongside Specialising in contemporary hand passing on her passion through knit and crochet design, Jane’s main teaching. focus is designing items for the home, Facebook: 25k followers such as blankets, cushions and throws, Instagram: 16.8k followers adding pops of colour, beads and stitch Website: janiecrow.co.uk

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ILARIA CALIRI - AIRALI DESIGN z London-based Italian crochet designer/maker/blogger, Ilaria Caliri, has been crafting since she was a child. “I’ve always loved any kind of creative work and discovered my love for crochet in my early 20s. When my cousin told me about amigurumi, within minutes I’d found LENA FEDOTOVA – CUP OF STITCHES an old crochet hook and leftover z Ukrainian designer, Lena Fedotova, has been a crochet pattern designer for the last six years. “I yarn for crocheting my first amigurumi creation… the first of a saw a piece of crocheted lace which my friend was working on for her bridal dress. I’d never seen crochet patterns for magazines, long series of them!” crochet before and it was love at first sight!” including Simply Crochet, her blog She still uses her mum’s trusty In her search for inspiration, self-taught Lena’s sailing around the world in an old wooden boat, and her amigurumi books, crochet hook, despite its worn-out currently moored in Montenegro. Her designing journey has taken a few different paths, too, from Amigurumi Winter Wonderland and head, and has designed over 100 classic lace shawls and lightweight motif garments, to exploring colourwork and 3D effects in Amigurumi Globetrotters. crochet, as well as rare crochet techniques like Lover’s knot and hairpin lace. “I’m still very excited Ilaria is well-known for about Tunisian crochet. Currently, my focus is on casual garments and textured accessories.” dreaming up imaginative Her patterns can be found on Ravelry and LoveCrochet. “I spend most of my crochet social time amigurumi personalities, such as in the Cup of Stitches group on Ravelry, where I host CALs and giveaways.” Super Sausage the superhero She also enjoys posting her latest designs and “other fun yarny things” on Instagram. “I’m so dachshund dog, Sartù the lemur excited about every make and have to share! Crocheting brings challenge to my life. Being an from Madagascar, Steno the stilt introvert, I tend to create garments and accessories which don’t cause the “did you do this?” reaction walker mouse and Caterino the (not at first, anyway!) The nature of crochet is to be quite expressive and it’s not easy to find a way to sailor walrus! “When I learned how put it on the sidelines. I love solving this puzzle.” to create three-dimensional shape She’s now switching from single-pattern releases to collections, creating sets of designs inspired with the yarn, I started to translate by a particular theme. my sketches into amigurumi Her top tip? “Being attentive and observant helps you to understand the process and nature of characters.” crocheting and allows for continued growth in the art and skill of crochet, whether a newbie or very Ilaria also creates crochet experienced. When curiosity ends, progress in one’s skill level will likely end, too.” She says her garments for her Etsy shop, while business strategy is fairly simple. “I have a vision and then decide on the best way to bring that vision her website offers free patterns in to life. I don’t do any market research and don’t know who my competitors are or the latest fad. While Italian and (US) English. this may not work for everybody, it works for me and keeps me happily designing things I love.” Instagram: over 16k followers Instagram (@ravliki): nearly 2k followers Facebook: over 21k followers Blog: http://cup-of- stitches.blogspot.co.uk/ Website: www.airalidesign.com

OLIVIA KENT – HOPEFUL HONEY z Born and raised in South Africa, Aussie- craft offers. She discovered Pinterest during based crochet designer, Olivia Kent, is the her recovery and was drawn to the creativity busy bee behind Hopeful Honey. Launched in in every post. “It awoke within me a new 2012, her company is a thriving hive of activity, passion to create and design. A few weeks where makers gather to expand their creative and 100 pins later, I sat down in front of my horizons. laptop and popped onto Blogger. It changed On a mission to make crochet cool again, my life forever... A new sense of purpose self-taught Olivia overcame childhood illness instantly came over me, so when it came to and depression and finds joy in helping others naming my blog, it wasn’t really that difficult achieve the same feeling of fulfilment and at all! The name represents hopefulness, pride she enjoys from crocheting, along with spirituality, inspiration, creativity and healing.” the meditative and cognitive benefits the From cowls and scarves, hats and headbands, to ponchos and ruanas and blankets and throws, Olivia’s “chic but playful” style is distinctively reflected in her work, resulting in sophisticated timeless pieces made with simple stitches and techniques, inspired by the beauty of nature. “As a crochet- wear business with a modern approach to a timeless art form, I believe fashion should be made with love and in a sustainable way.” Olivia’s designs have been featured in I Like Crochet and Inside Crochet magazines, VANESSA MOONCIE - KISSY SUZUKI Buzzfeed and Skip To My Lou. She has z East Sussex-based contemporary craftsperson, artist collaborated with LoveCrochet on instructional and author, Vanessa Mooncie, studied fashion and video tutorials, Lion Brand on unique crochet textile design and has worked as a children’s wear designs and Wool And The Gang, We Are designer, illustrator and interior designer. She now Knitters, Sirdar and Furls Crochet on exciting specialises in silkscreen work and designing contemporary product reviews/launches. Hopeful Honey’s crochet jewellery and accessories for the home and wardrobe. crochet school videos offer an endless Inspired by the rich tradition of knit and crochet through the collection of easy-to- follow stitch tutorials, history of fashion, she seamlessly blends traditional handcrafting techniques while the dedicated “Stitchionary” aids with modern design. “My mother and grandmother taught me basic crochet. I both advanced and beginner crocheters love how simple the tools are; just a hook and some yarn. Crocheted fabric is alike, encouraging all levels to explore and easy to sculpt into shape just by varying the length of a stitch or changing the appreciate the versatility of the craft. direction of the working row.” “Design is what I’m most passionate Vanessa works with the Guild of Master Craftsman Publications, producing about, and I strive to create unique pieces with a range of craft books covering a variety of creative disciplines, including simple, unexpected details. I always aim for crochet, knitting, sewing and printmaking. She has also written projects for comfort and versatility, and every pattern is various craft magazines and yarn companies. Her website showcases past and meticulously created by myself and has been present designs and her books, while her Instagram page illustrates her work in thoughtfully written with the maker in mind. I progress, published pieces and inspiration. aim to change the world one stitch at a time!” She’s recently made her mark in the crochet world with her countless Pinterest: 100k+ followers creations and books on crocheted sea creatures and trophy animal heads to Facebook: 70k+ followers adorn your walls. “I’m currently working on a book of crocheted birds, out in YouTube: 50k+ subscribers time for Christmas!” Instagram: 24k+ followers Instagram: 2.6k followers Website: www.hopefulhoney.com Website: www.kissysuzuki.com

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NICKI TRENCH - NICKI TRENCH z Brighton-based crochet/knitting designer, Nicki Trench, is the author of no less than 25 books and a tutor in the craft and home style industry. She’s also an editor and project manager for knitting and crochet books, and runs regular crochet-along blanket projects plus a popular crochet club, where subscribers receive an original pattern each month for just £3.50. As one of the leading figures in the revival and promotion of home crafts, she’s regularly interviewed, reviewed and featured in publications including Inside Crochet, Sunday Times Home, Simply Crochet and Crafts Beautiful. Nicki’s passion for crocheting began at 14-years-old. “I made a poncho for my sister, who was living in Paris at the time. I felt very cool, because crochet ponchos were all the rage.” Her sensational sense of colour and design, knowing what people want and going with contemporary trends gives her the edge over her competitors and she finds inspiration in many things. “Walking around the streets of Brighton or JANINE HOLMES - MOJI-MOJI DESIGN London, seeing current trends in cafés/fashion… . My illustrator daughter’s a great z Amigurumi aficionado, Janine Holmes, designs imaginative source of inspiration. I keep an eye on the colour combinations she’s using and we crochet patterns for cute’n’quirky creatures. Having knitted, woven feed off each other.” and felted since she was eight, the Worcester-based designer first Nicki is the queen of covers. “I love making blankets; there’s something very picked up a hook only six years ago. “My life was transformed forever satisfying about them. I particularly like using a variety of different squares or and all other crafts have since taken a back seat!” motifs.” Her favourite make? “Probably the Springtime Blanket From nature-inspired sloths and bears, to out-of- this-world aliens and from my book, Cute & Easy Crochet (Cico Books). I also love monsters, Janine’s Etsy shop showcases creative characters such as Camelia the the Rainbow Cowl from my most recent book, Rainbow Knits Chameleon, her most popular pattern. “I love the three-dimensional way that amigurumi (Cico Books).” forms in a wonderful ever-evolving spiral. It’s like sculpting with yarn and I get a lot of Her top crochet tip? “Practice. There are no shortcuts; you pleasure seeing my creations come to life straight-off- the-hook, without the need for just have to get stuck in. Not everything I make is perfect… I seaming together.” start again many times before I get it right! Try big projects Janine’s constantly complimented on her clearly-written free patterns with step-by- because you’ll get lots of repetition, and go to crochet clubs step photos, which she shares along with crochet-related advice and ‘how to’ posts on her and workshops. Crochet is a community and people are popular blog. “I also discuss the joys of life and crafting, give sneak peeks of new designs, always there to help.” information on upcoming publications I’m featuring in, craft shows I’m attending, plus Website: www.nickitrench.com other important events in my yarn-obsessed world, including the antics of my four cats!” She’s currently working on new patterns for forthcoming books published by amigurumipatterns.net. “Look out for a tubby-looking dragon called Drake and two odd-looking three-eyed, twelve-toed monsters called Timothy and Tabitha.” JESSICA CAREY – THE HOOK NOOK LAVINIA STAMPS 1.2_ADS 18/04/2018 14:51 Page 1 Instagram: 7.7k followers z Oregon-based Jessica Carey is the fabulous pink- Facebook: 7.6k followers haired founder, owner and creative designer behind The Blog hits: 1,375,733 Hook Nook. She began her business after viewing various Website: www.mojimojidesign.com YouTube videos on her mission to learn to crochet. “After several months of growing my skill, and friends and family asking to purchase my products, I opened up an Etsy shop in February 2012, selling my finished goods. After a couple EMMA VARNAM - EMMA VARNAM DESIGNS of successful years, I chose to cease production of finished z Manchester-based crochet/knitwear designs have become items to focus on pattern designing.” designer and author, Emma Varnam, a global hit, with a big The crochet fashion designer has since grown a loyal took up crochet ten years ago in a following in America Instagram fan base of over 100K followers, alongside “despairing attempt” to reduce her and Japan. “Once I had establishing great working relationships with several huge yarn stash. “I love traditional British mastered the basic well-known brands and companies, including JOANN Vintage interiors and had a hankering to techniques of crochet I became stores, We Are Knitters and Furls Crochet. She also posts create blankets and cushions with a entranced by cute amigurumi toy on Pinterest and has a Ravelry store. bygone feel but to match my designs. Being three-dimensional, “I love making for the modern woman, creating pieces contemporary soft furnishings.” they’re very durable.” that are far from the crochet traditions most people are Her design work is very much based Emma once knitted a strawberry hat accustomed to, and more geared towards today’s styles. on the English style, updating the for the CBBC character, Mr Bloom. “I Crocheting isn’t just for your grandma anymore!” vintage looks of traditional crochet for think he must have loved it as I never Instagram: 106k followers modern life, while her amigurumi toy saw it again!” She also designed the Facebook group: over 10k massively-popular VW Campervan Website: www.thehooknooklife.com Doorstop for Inside Crochet magazine and has just published her fifth crochet book, Granny Squares Weekend, following on from her best-seller, Cute Crocheted Animals, which showcases TATSIANA KUPRYIANCHYK - LILLA BJÖRN CROCHET lovable characters, such as Jack Rabbit, z Belarus-born Tatsiana Kupryianchyk is Czech Republic, which which can be dressed in an extensive the talented crochet designer and fibre she moved to ten years wardrobe of outfits. “It just allows my artist behind Lilla Björn Crochet. Taught ago. Offering articles imagination to fly!” to crochet at kindergarten when she was and insights into her Showing the workings and behind- just five-years- old, she says her inspiration creative process, it the-scenes photos of how she creates lies in graphic art, architecture, paintings, also gives crochet tips her designs, Emma’s website has photography and textile prints. “I mainly and tricks, tutorials, free 10,000 hits a month. Her blog is design interior decorations. Making patterns and reviews of bursting with fascinating free patterns mandalas is my greatest obsession, but books, magazines, yarns and crochet tools. and video tutorials, and she also hosts I’ve recently been looking into garment In her quest to live her own creative life, giveaways, reviews new books and design more.” she tries not to compare her work to other products. She collaborates with other Tatsiana’s original crochet patterns are designers’. “For me, success stems from the designers and yarn houses, too, available via Ravelry, Etsy and LoveCrochet, true passion and strong belief in what you including Designer Yarns. and she runs a blog from her home in the do, without looking elsewhere. From the very Keeping her finger on the pulse of beginning, I’ve been using the overlay craft trends, Emma reads fashion and crochet technique (introduced to the crochet interior magazines and browses shops world by Melody McDuffee in 2003) and and websites for new colour mandala art helped me to stand out from combinations. “Mini balls of yarn, just other crochet offerings on the market at the 10g or 20g, are becoming increasingly time. Even now, after four years of intense popular as people love to crochet with a designing, overlay crochet mandalas remain myriad of colours.” my most popular patterns.” Instagram: 3k+ followers Blog subscribers: 28K+ Twitter: 1.5k followers Facebook: 27K+ followers Website: www.emmavarnam.co.uk Instagram: 26.5K+ followers Website: www.lillabjorncrochet.com

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KERRY LORD - TOFT z Warwickshire-based kits and home to the Kerry Lord is the founder/ best-selling Edward’s creative director of the Menagerie collection of crochet and knitting brand over 200 animals, birds, TOFT, born in 2006 and a monsters and dolls plus product of the successful five accompanying crochet Toft Alpaca Stud farm books. upon which she grew up. Trend-spotter Kerry “TOFT offers the attends numerous trade highest-quality natural shows. “It’s clear that the yarns made here in the UK appetite for amigurumi is MAYA KUZMAN - LITTLE TREASURES in a range of beautiful still growing. Blanket z Macedonian crochet and textile artist, behind my blog was to natural shades. I take great making’s becoming Maya Kuzman, is “incurably in love with leave my children joy in seeing the fleeces roll increasingly popular, too. crafts”. The Skopje-based designer “with a capsuled traditions, off the backs of the There’s a shift away from bohemian heart” creates eye-catching memories, journeys animals at shearing time!” using up all your multi- jewellery with crochet and mixed media and adventures. I love to Kerry taught herself to coloured scraps towards techniques. share my creative crochet using YouTube an exciting trend for “The interest in my crochet jewellery projects, show my mixed while pregnant with her beautifully-designed gradually rose throughout the years and media jewellery and accessories and write first child five years ago. “It blankets based on initiated the birth of our small, family- crochet patterns.” Colour-loving Maya has a felt great to discover considered colour palettes oriented business. I sell jewellery and penchant for vintage and along with amigurumi and I instantly and designs.” accessories on my website and also use jewellery making, enjoys experimenting with fell in love with how fast I She’s most inspired, creations never fails to other sites, like Etsy and Ravelry, through items for interiors. “I love to explore and use could make 3D shapes. however, by TOFT keep me creating new which we offer our digital crochet crochet to make decorative pieces for the Before I knew it, I’d made customers’ stories. “Social designs.” patterns.” home, too.” an elephant, quickly media means I can see the After a sell-out advent An English teacher by profession, she She says social media is an invaluable followed by several more 50 elephants made for calendar crochet along in became a passionate blogger of her crafty tool. “It’s been immensely influential in animals… and a new wedding favours, the 2017, the TOFT team’s set adventures a decade ago, sharing patterns regards to inspiration and the sharing of collection of crochet first-time grandmothers for their second CAL, and tutorials showing how to create the ideas!” characters was born.” working on special projects culminating with the reveal boho designs that she loves. Bursting with Facebook: 4k+ followers Alongside ecologically and the child that won’t let of two brand-new members creativity and inspiration, her blog has Instagram: 1k+ followers and ethically-sound go of his favourite monkey. of Edward’s Menagerie. become a powerful magnet for the crochet Pinterest: Over 11k+ followers product launches every Looking at Instagram: and craft community, showcasing Maya’s, Website: the-little- treasures.com / other week, TOFT is both a #edsanimals on Instagram 57k followers LAVINIA STAMPS 1.2_ADS 18/04/2018 14:51 Page 1 and other designers’, creative pursuits, N.B. blog address is different to the retailer and wholesaler of and seeing 30,000 Website: interviews with indie designers, DIY tutorials blog on her website: beginner-focused crochet individual posts of people’s www.toftuk.com plus a plethora of shared ideas. “The idea thelittletreasures.blogspot.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com 18 TECHNOLOGY

Social Media impacts the making movement Fiona Lloyd, Director of Marketing for Ellison Europe Ltd and the brand Sizzix, looks at the big changes social media has had on the craft industry and how its influence has changed how consumers engage with brands z Social media is full of monthly active users, with 72 per z CONNECTIVITY Facebook Groups already, with it promoted on a brand’s social creativity, each platform offers cent saying Pinterest helps them Makers from across the globe no set to grow. This connectivity has media platform, which provides its users a place to tell their find ideas for everyday life. They longer have to attend their local allowed word-of-mouth to spread brands with the opportunity to story uniquely, whether through can find new ideas at the touch of craft groups to find new through their online conversations showcase as much useful imagery, text or video. It’s a a button, which is driving their connections, as they can network which is influencing the products information for its consumers to place for them to be inspired, and creativity and helping them decide on social media. The creative they choose and the brands they utilise. Consumers are now much to inspire others, which is why it on their next craft project. This community online share content engage with. more likely to compare prices and has such a substantial benefit to influence is helping make their through blogs and through their research a product online than the craft industry. next purchase decision, as they social platforms, inspiring one z INFLUENCE they are to go into multiple shops Pinterest have reported that explore the products that will help another and revealing their Social media has changed how to check prices and product DIY and craft is one of the most create their next craft project. favourite products and tips and consumers are now shopping, specifications. popular search categories on the These platforms also give tricks. It’s brought together a with more and more people Social media has not only platform. It’s been exciting to see brands a stage to showcase global community of people with finding their product inspiration provided creatives with unlimited the growth of the creative exactly what their products can the same interests and helped on social media rather than inspiration at the touch of a movement online because of this, do, inspiring not only their initiate an ongoing conversation through television and button, but it’s provided them with especially seeing how Sizzix followers, but also bringing in new between them through social magazines. People believe their an online community for sharing consumers have been utilising audiences who are looking for that media. Facebook have reported peers on social media more than ideas, tips and reviews with their products, creating such certain product or making style. that one billion people are using ever before, with people across the globe. This has innovative projects. recommendations from family given brands the opportunity to Creatives are not only “The creative community and friends being a big influence access that community and accessing their project inspiration on a consumer’s behaviour. showcase its products to a through social media, but they online share content through Social platforms have also growing audience, and with the are researching their next craft allowed for influencers to be help of industry influencers, its purchase too. People trust their blogs and through their introduced, who have a big effect growing engagement. online community for honest on the online creative community. Consumers now use social media reviews and information more social platforms, inspiring Influencers are a trusted source sites as their research, relying on than they do with advertising. of recommendations for crafters the opinions of their friends and They are researching their next one another and revealing and range from more micro family over visiting a store or product choice on social media, their favourite products influencers with smaller reading magazines. which gives brands the followings to the bigger Social media has opened and opportunity to showcase their and tips and tricks” influencers with a large online connected the creative industry product range and provide reach. to global audiences, growing its inspiring content through their popularity. With this our platforms. z RESEARCH consumers have changed, their For us, social media has Consumers are using social decision making is influenced by become a valuable marketing tool media to research about a what they see on social media, that helps grow our audience and company and product before they providing brands with an communicate our message to buy, so they can check what opportunity to persuade these multiple demographics. It’s made people are saying about the audiences with their online a big impact on how the industry company and find inspirational content. I’m eager to see how the works. ideas for how they can use that platforms evolve in the future and product in their next project. how consumers adapt to these z THE ENDLESS According to Pinterest, 73 per changes, it should bring some INSPIRATION cent of active users have bought exciting prospects to the creative Social media sites like Pinterest something because they saw it industry in the years to come. and Instagram have provided on Pinterest. This increased For more information about makers with unlimited inspiration, research opportunity means that Sizzix visit www.sizzix.co.uk or on the go. According to Hootsuite, consumers are taking into follow them on LinkedIn – Ellison Pinterest has over 200 million account the content that’s Europe Ltd.

www.craftbusiness.com PROMOTION 19

Faber-Castell Creative Studio the only brand you need Innovative technology and vibrant colours make this line anything but ordinary z No matter what respective skill school. They bring pictures to pastels are ideal for encaustic, level or individual motivation you life with vitality and expression. as well as various pastel have – the new Faber-Castell This is an old tradition of figure and scraping, techniques. Creative Studio concept drawing that dates back to the New to the Faber-Castell exclusively distributed in the UK Renaissance, enhanced with white Creative Studio range is the trend- by West Design Products enables and with shadows deepened setting hand lettering sets which you to express and enjoy with black. The three sketch sets compliment the existing Pitt Pen creativity, while offering provide the basis for classical range and Manga sets. This is the everything you would need. With drawing techniques with graphite, trendy art of writing and drawing high quality products for drawing charcoal and monochrome words, creating lovely letters, and painting in perfectly matching earth tones. All three of the playing with words and creating colours, and in incomparable sets are perfect starter sets typographic artworks. A special opportunities through a plethora with a number of different emphasis lies on the creative self of different materials. This makes pieces in each set enabling it made aspect. With pigmented them great tools for to be a one stop purchase. India ink which is waterproof and experimenting with your own Also included in the range are does not bleed through paper creativity and techniques. the rebranded soft and oil pastels. yet remains permanent. All of The Creative Studio line offers The soft pastels are available as this makes them great tools for an affordable entrance to Art & 36 individual full-length sticks, and experimenting with your own Graphic. The centrepiece of the sets of 24, 48 and 72 half sticks. creativity. The calligraphy and range – and the core skill of this Offering intense colours, a silky metallic Pitt Pens are ideal for long-established company – is smooth flow of colour, easy to sketches, drawings, layouts, its wood-cased pencils. The new mix and blend it is clear why they fashion design and illustration. German manufactured colour and are often an artist or hobbyist’s Also new to the Faber-Castell water-colour pencils are called first choice. The brilliant, vivid portfolio is the addition of wet Goldfaber and Goldfaber Aqua. results achieved make them ideal colour. The compact sets are And they certainly are anything for amateur artists, school art an easy and inexpensive way of but ordinary: Thanks to innovative lessons and creative handicraft getting started with new painting technology, they have particularly enthusiasts. The soft pastels techniques. Each set contains 12 soft leads and intensely glowing are well suited to different selected colours (12ml tubes), colours. They are also extremely types of paper, but fantastic respectively chosen for each light-resistant and smudge-proof effects can also be achieved technique. The acrylic set has or water-soluble. Available in 48 on other surfaces particularly a creamy consistency that is colours in both ranges plus tins. with the use of pastel shapers. fast-drying and waterproof. It The pencils can be used easily The oil pastels, also available can also be diluted with water on almost all rough surfaces. in 36 colours offer wonderful for watercolour effects. The The monochrome colours opportunities of applying both oil colours are opaque with of black, white, sanguine and extremely intense, strong colours a smooth application, and sepia can be found in life drawing and delicate pastel tones. Due the watercolour set works classes at almost every art to their high luminosity, the oil perfectly with the Goldfaber Aqua watercolour pencils. If you love to draw and Finally, the range consists of the UK manufactured pads paint, and your passion lies available in sizing from A3 to A5. There are five different styles, in being creative and you Sketch Pad, Watercolour Pad, Acrylic Paper Pad and finally appreciate high quality tools two different Mixed Media Pads. One containing white paper, and – then this is everything one which is fairly unique to the market offering black paper that Faber-Castell excel at inside. The large breadth of pads offers an opportunity to cover all possible applications from the plethora of the Creative Studio range all at a reasonable price. As your companion for life, Faber-Castell offers the perfect variety of products and technique sets for young artists in the Creative Studio line. At West Design Products, we are able to offer the full range as well as attractive 1m POS presentation which increases your assortment competence and boosts sales. It enables you to stock the range in a small foot print, and the large and emotional product images on the packaging lead the customers towards the shelves, whilst the illuminated header acts like a magnet to draw attention to the assortment. West Design Products [email protected] 01303 297888

www.craftbusiness.com 20 STATIONERY

Sara Miller from Blueprint

Busy B Perfect Planner Diary What is hot in stationery?

Henri Davis, Independent Mustard Pinata Retail Advisor, takes a Sticky Notes look at the trends in the stationery market z As an independent retail the opportunity it presents for advisor to businesses in the us to grow our businesses by cards, gifts, stationery and satisfying our customers’ needs. heritage industries, I combine Many trade shows have 30 years of retail experience displays set up to highlight with my knowledge of trends products being exhibited at the and consumer motivation to show that are good examples of analyse markets and identify the emerging trends, others host new opportunities. I have worked seminars by relevant experts Mini Moderns from Portico Designs at Habitat, Next, WH Smith and who will talk through the trends the National Trust and I now work for the sector but not necessarily mutually exclusive.’ The second colour palette or imagery may be it includes lots of features like with many small and medium- relate it to any products at is minimal and excellent, which too new for their customers and faux leather cover, pen loop, sized businesses, including the show; some do both. they describe as ‘high-tech and it may be that their customers storage pockets, stickers, extra multi-site retailers, national and There are two stationery craftsmanship combine to create need to see it around them notepad and perforated lists. international manufacturers focused shows I attend each a high quality, ultra-modern look. for a season before they feel The uncertainty around Brexit, and suppliers and am currently year Paperworld in Frankfurt and The third is spirit and ambition sufficiently familiar with the increasing inflation reducing the first retailer Chairman the Stationery Show in London. which incorporates ‘a positive and style to be comfortable enough disposable incomes and potential of the Giftware Association. A major draw at Paperworld very contemporary interpretation with it to bring it into their home job insecurity are all fuelling the For more information, visit is the Trend Area which is renown of current opportunities so understanding trends and need for people to keep in touch, www.henridavis.co.uk. because it is well curated, and and future perspectives’. finding ‘on trend’ products only making sure they remember Every trade show you go to, the printed material produced For many of our customers becomes useful if you know special occasions and generally industry magazine you pick up to support it is invaluable. these themes will feel extreme, who your customers are and stay connected and this is good or website you read will tell you This year they identified three the clever bit is how we use what that they will appreciate the news for those businesses what is on trend but as retailers trends, the first called work and we know about our shoppers to relevance of a particular trend. offering social stationery, be they and suppliers our role is to challenge, which they define as select products we know they This acceptance of on the high street or on-line. decide which trends are relevant ‘an office trend which develops will want to buy. For many of colour and imagery applies to This type of communication to our customers and how we a relaxed atmosphere in which us, as retail buyers, we will need stationery too, but the balance is very personal and to make can tap in to this to maximize high tech and comfort are not to bring our product selection between being on trend and the recipient feel even more back to a level that works for functionality is important for special the products are often our customers. It may even stationery users, the product made using lovely materials mean we wait a while until these must work not just look nice. with extra details. At Spring ideas become more ‘normal’. The British Retail Consortium Fair, I saw a perfect example For many retailers to stock figures for March show that of this from Dotty about Paper products which reflect the latest overall retail spending was who were offering some lovely down -6 per cent in March. So bags of invitations, presented with consumers spending less in these organza bags makes this emphasises further the them special and they were importance of functionality, reasonably priced too. there is little room for gratuitous Journaling continues to be products that are being bought very relevant for consumers for the sake of it, but that this year and products linked doesn’t mean it has to be dull. to helping you to note down BUSY B are a well-known your thoughts, current goals, stationery brand renowned for organisation and our use of time, creating innovative products all aimed at helping redress our that help us organise all aspects work life balance. Retailer Kikki of our lives. They are always K has based the bulk of their well thought through with great product offer around this idea extra details and they look great of life goals and organisation too. A good example is their and there are many new ranges Dotty Perfect Planner Diary launched being offered by UK suppliers about in 2017, it is week to view and so that more retailers can Paper All Sorted range of journals from Eccolo has a notes section each week, offer these types of products.

www.craftbusiness.com STATIONERY 21

Allsorted have an attractive something for everyone on offer, as we get tongue tied This design trend is very range of journals from Eccolo, including the stylized fun of I Love trying to say it. relevant on stationery too, a growing American trend led Birds from Artfile, the distinctive In terms of finish, high both in terms of the graphics stationery brand– inspired by florals of the V and A offered by shine glosses, metallics and messaging being used Italian design - that seeks to Museum and Galleries and the and glitters are very much on products and the products rekindle the importance and exotic Sara Miller range from in evidence and they will being offered that are allowing pleasure of the handwritten word. Blueprint and Mini Moderns from allow retailers to create some consumers to write in these Another stationery format Portico Designs all adding real really strong displays that will different styles. One of the main increasing in popularity are breadth to the stationery ranges WOW their customers. For the suppliers in to this sector is the Bullet Journals, again, aimed at available for retailers to stock. last few years new colours of UK Manuscript Pen Company foil have been used on greetings who are launching their new helping us to organise our lives But it is not just licenses Laura Stoddart’s In Bloom range tracking the past, keeping on that are giving us great images cards from bronzes through Callicreative Switch Tips Range top of the present and planning for stationery we have fabulous to rose gold and ice blues which launchied in the UK at - a complete set offering a brush the future. Leuchtturrm bullet on trend llamas from Mustard, and, as often happens, these the Stationery Show this year. tip, a fineliner and two italic nibs journals are the leader in this to beautifully drawn wildlife trends are now filtering through I have commented that can be used in one single market and their sales are going and stunning florals from Laura on to stationery. There are previously that there are strong pen making it the perfect solution from strength to strength. Stoddart’s In Bloom range. While some stunning products being links between the trends in for creatives of all disciplines. Products that help you we are seeing some changes in launched this year from a cross greetings cards and stationery Because modern calligraphy organise are certainly in big emphasis in the stationery on section of suppliers including Go and this is a good example continues to stay in vogue, demand at the moment and offer now, humour, happiness Stationery Graphique and Helix! because for the last few years Manuscript are adding an Graphique offer the Franklin and laughing still play an Metallic inks are being used there have been a significant Oblique Calligraphy Set Covey system, it is an American important part and the Wiffley in subtle and sophisticated ways number of card ranges featuring and a more comprehensive system widely used as a Waffley range from Really Good too as shown in the Noir range calligraphy and hand lettering Modern Calligraphy Set to management tool which has will certainly brighten up many from Otima, an experienced because the cards are featuring their Modern Calligraphy some useful features including displays and have us laughing Brazilian manufacturing company messages rather than images. collection which are ideal for daily, weekly and monthly experts and beginners alike. planning pages as well as There is another important Leuchtturrm space for flexible scheduling, bullet connection to make here; a lot prioritising, important dates journals of the journaling mentioned and notes, and monthly earlier relates to thoughtfulness; calendars for planning ahead. the creativity and skill of In the 30 or so years I have learning calligraphy encourages worked in the stationery industry personal development, it has become more and more relaxation and ‘losing yourself’ design-led and licensing popular so maybe for some modern designs from other industry calligraphy is taking over COUNTRYsectors, LOVE particularly CRAFTS AND homewares PERSONAL IMPRESSIONS 1.2_ADS 20/04/2018 15:04 Page 1 where colouring left off? and greetings cards, and this is There are some fabulous still very evident in the stationery Wiffley Waffley range from Really Good products on the market this year market this year. There is and plenty to get excited about.

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www.craftbusiness.com 22 THE BIG INTERVIEW

FACTBOX Theo is chairman of Ryman www.ryman.co.uk, Robert Dyas www.robertdyas.co.uk, and Boux Avenue www. bouxavenue.com. He also supports numerous charities, including Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and Comic Relief. Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday (#SBS) competition runs every Sunday between 5.00-7.30pm on Twitter: www.theopaphitissbs.com Follow Theo on Twitter: @theopaphitis

Theo Paphitis - Stationery Star From Swiss watches to stationery, retail magnate and former Dragons’ Den investor Theo Paphitis talks to Angela Sara West about his success secrets, his business tips, Brexit and the future of retail

z Having left school at 16 Paphitis Retail Group, comprising z EXIT THE DRAGON… dynamic international markets, Boux Avenue from scratch, without qualifications due to his Ryman Stationery, ironmongers As a stalwart on BBC’s Dragons’ with his travels for BBC Two’s in-store and online, and it now dyslexia, Theo’s defining work Robert Dyas and multi-award- Den, Theo invested in numerous Theo’s Adventure Capitalists has nearly 30 stores in the UK moment was when he moved winning global lingerie brand, small businesses in a wide variety taking him to places including Ho and more internationally.” from his job as an office boy for Boux Avenue. His latest of industries, from consumer Chi Minh City and Hanoi in He says his companies a Lloyds of London broker to acquisition is the London Graphic goods to online antique Vietnam, Mumbai in India, and thrive because they understand work for Watches of Switzerland Centre, and he recently sold Red valuations, leaving the show in São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro in their customers. “We are on Bond Street, where he Letter Days that he co-owned 2012 to focus on his expanding Brazil. passionate about what we do discovered his passion for with fellow dragon Peter Jones. retail empire both here and Owning multiple businesses and, most importantly, if you retail. “I realised the power of a With all his businesses abroad. all around the globe means look after your colleagues then good salesperson and, crucially, privately owned and He says the decision was not Theo’s constantly on the road. “I they, in turn, will make sure what a rewarding and passionate “entrepreneurial in spirit”, Theo’s an easy one, but the time was have a driver, so I can work your customers are looked sector retail is,” he tells me. success is built on keeping it right to surrender his seat. on-the-go! I use my car as a after, so everyone is happy.” “I’ve never looked back!” simple and working hard. “I truly “There were many businesses second office. Business takes With a business empire believe in the saying ‘the harder that crossed my path in the Den me all over the world.” z GOING BACK TO RYMAN’S spanning retail, property and you work, the luckier you get. that I admired and ended up ROOTS… THE IMPORTANCE finance, the Cypriot-born I’ve always done my homework, working with. As soon as I z CUSTOMER OF INCENTIVES entrepreneur has revived worked on knowing more than realised that a good person with SERVICE IS KING On opening his first store on the fortunes of notable high my competitors and used my an average idea is a better bet What’s at the heart of the retail Great Portland Street in London street names while, in his common sense. The answer than an average person with a king’s businesses? “Customer in 1893, Henry J Ryman, the former role as chairman of is in a KISS (Keep It Simple great idea, I didn’t look back.” service, customer service, founder of Ryman, provided Millwall FC, he took the club Stupid)! Making it to the top His other past TV ventures customer service… and passion. the first ever self-service out of administration into the is all about taking calculated include a regular slot on BBC’s Robert Dyas and Ryman both stationery shop, servicing FA Cup Final and Europe. risks. Often, your first mistake The One Show and we have also have a fantastic heritage story London’s booming businesses, In 2015, the self-confessed is your best one, because watched him follow and advise and a strong history of looking letter-writers and artists. “shopkeeper” launched the Theo you can only learn from it.” intrepid companies taking a risk in after our customers. I launched Throughout his life, he recorded

www.craftbusiness.com THE BIG INTERVIEW 23

his thoughts and activities in his the small business champion handwritten diaries, which reveal has been running the weekly his passion for his inventory, “Small Business Sunday” his stores and his staff. Twitter competition, known Ryman is still trading on Great as #SBS, since 2010. Portland Street today, and this “I was struck by the number successful ethos is something of business owners on Twitter that Theo ensures still exists in who wanted to tell me about their the company; he continues the new products and services and staff welfare schemes, days out Small Business Sunday was born and team-building experiences so that people can pitch their that Henry introduced. ‘sell’ directly to me,” he explains. “A highlight for me is an “Out of the hundreds of tweets annual incentive holiday for my I receive, I choose my favourite store managers across my four six every week to re-Tweet to brands. If they hit target, they my half a million followers and get to come away for five nights welcome them into the very on a five-star trip to fantastic supportive network of #SBS destinations such as Barbados, winners. They are a fantastic Croatia, Greece, Spain and Malta. bunch who support and advise It gives me a chance to spend each other, and hundreds meet time with our hard-working up every year at our free annual colleagues and it’s a time for event, where they have invaluable them to be rewarded, let their access to expert advice and hair down and have some fun!” networking. There are almost 2,300 #SBS winners now. It’s z TRENDS amazing to see small businesses Handpicked to bring the best supporting each other.” quality and choice on the market, Providing a massive boost Ryman’s collection of office to the chosen companies, the supplies offers an extended benefits of winning include range of desk and office items to increased Twitter followers, keep every office worker happy. positive media publicity and, “We like to think we’ve carried crucially, increased sales. “I on Henry J Ryman’s legacy into know I have been lucky in the 21st century and beyond. business and am keen to As long as people need office spread goodwill to others, not supplies, we’ll be supplying them!” forgetting that, very often, you How does Theo see the make your own luck by making stationery market evolving? use of every opportunity.” “Whilst in core categories more of Showcasing the best of people’s lives are clearly moving Britain’s small businesses, towards being digital in many “The first thing anyone should do before Shop #SBS is now open, too, ways, we are certainly also seeing providing a shared selling a real rise in the love of the more launching their own business is their research. platform allowing customers creative side of stationery. It’s to buy from multiple #SBS all about innovation, colour and It’s so important. The biggest reason winners in one place. From using stationery because you toys and birdhouses, to like to, rather than you have to.” businesses fail is because they haven’t done jewellery and furniture, Shop As for stationery trends, their homework” #SBS is bursting with a diverse he says bullet journals are very selection of products, with much on the rise. “We’re looking all purchases supporting the at trends that tap into consumer z BUSINESS TIPS FROM He says it is crucial to do of purpose from working in a lifeblood of the British economy! creativity, such as calligraphy A TOP DRAGON your homework. “The first vibrant industry with passionate, and lots and lots of colour. Our The former ‘Dragon’ not only thing anyone should do before hard-working people. Do what z DREAM AND DO customers are clearly liking the offers stationary in spades, but launching their own business is you love… life is too short to do WHAT YOU LOVE break from their digital gadgets also tips galore for entrepreneurs. their research. It’s so important. something you don’t enjoy. Do He says without having dreams, and are embracing their creative “Business is no different from a The biggest reason businesses what lights that fire in your belly.” you cannot be successful in sides more so than ever.” sport or game, in that you need fail is because they haven’t The best thing about being business, and it is how you to learn the rules and how to done their homework. You an entrepreneur? “Probably turn those dreams into reality z BREXIT – THE play by them.” Top of the list? wouldn’t sit an exam without the freedom it gives you. It that’s key. “Your dream will only “PERFECT STORM” “I believe that business is 90 revising, so why do that with also gives me the opportunity work if you live and breathe How does he think Brexit will per cent common sense, but your own business? It’s knowing to use my time to help others, it and are passionate about impact on retail? “Brexit itself often common sense is not that more than your competitor and I am proud to work with it. Making £100m is easy; it’s will not affect retail; a lack common! Embracing change is that gives you the edge.” a variety of UK charities.” making your first £1m that’s of consumer confidence as more important now than ever, The retail tycoon says it’s difficult. Most importantly, everybody loses confidence in what with technology moving about doing what you love… z#SBS THEO-LOGY! if you believe in your idea, the current government to deal the goalposts faster than you every day. “I love retail and As a huge admirer of people then don’t let your dream be with Brexit effectively, as well as can kick a ball at them!” wake up every day with a sense who have passion and energy, the one that got away!” keeping all the other necessary political plates spinning, is what will affect retail.” So, how is the future looking for enterprises and how can retailers move forward? “The government needs to support bricks-and-mortar businesses, as well as digital-only operations, to level the playing field for the likes of business rates and give them a fighting chance. It’s tough out there at the moment, as retail faces a perfect storm, but retailers will move forward through adapting to, and being part of, the change. However, do not be surprised to see many names disappearing from our landscape, as well as new names coming through.”

www.craftbusiness.com 24 RETAIL In difficult trading times how can retailers enhance their online offering? Gavin Lowther, head of digital, at eCommerce digital marketing agency Visualsoft, looks at how retailers can boost their sales z The past few months have retailers to look at their is on the rise. In fact, we found z INCREASING AVERAGE market places is a great way been a trying time for the retail online offering and scrutinise that the amount of traffic to BASKET VALUES for retailers to increase both sector. We’ve seen retailers of all how it can be improved. sites from social sources has Of the many ways to grow sales, brand awareness and visibility sizes fall victim to the “high street However, do UK retailers increased by a staggering increasing the order values of specific product ranges crisis”, ranging from household currently make the most of 300 per cent over the past 12 of customers already visiting by putting their products in names such as Toys ‘R’ Us and the growth opportunities months; pointing to a huge loss the site is often considered front of a global audience; Maplin to smaller brands who offered by online? in income for retailers who do easier than driving new traffic essentially the most effective simply cannot keep pace with We recently carried out an in- not take steps to maximise to the page. This can be “shop window” in existence. the more established players. depth study into 245 of the UK’s their social media offering. deceptively simple; through a Considering this, it was The most recent set of ONS top retailers which revealed that Retailers can use social few easily-actionable steps, a surprise to find that multi- (Office of National Statistics) a worrying number of the UK’s media to monitor conversation retailers can increase order channel options are actually retail figures suggest that this “top” retailers currently stunt their and sentiment around brand, values almost overnight. the least commonly-used downturn is likely to continue own growth potential by not fully competitors, and wider industry, Take pop-ups and overlays growth avenue for retailers, for the foreseeable future, with optimising their online offering . which in turn allows them as an example - an invaluable with barely more than a third sales in the three months to With this in mind, let’s to identify lead generation way to communicate targeted (just 39 per cent) currently February – usually a busy period take a closer look at the key opportunities and build stronger messages to shoppers - which making use of third-party for retailers – down by 0.4 per areas retailers can focus on relationships with customers. directly impacts engagement and marketplaces such as Amazon cent on the previous quarter. to help build online sales. To effectively leverage the sales. Pop-ups are a great way and Ebay to sell their goods. More consumers than power of social media, brands to grab the attention of casual What’s more, our research ever now opt for the speed z EFFECTIVELY UTILISING should employ social listening browsers by drawing the eye to found that 31 per cent of retail and convenience of doing SOCIAL MEDIA tactics to delve deeper into time-sensitive discounts or new businesses currently make their shopping online; an Since its inception, social their demographic for insights product ranges, which in turn use of the sales tools Google assertion backed by recent media has been an invaluable that inform and build the social points them towards products offers, which presents another figures from IMRG, which found brand-building and engagement media strategy. This in turn they may not have considered growth avenue for proactive that online retail sales are up tool for retailers. ensures they can offer relevant purchasing otherwise. organisations. Google’s 13.9 per cent year on year. The UK is the world leader messaging to customers While excessive use of recently announced “Google It has evidently never in online sales driven through and take full advantage of pop-ups can irritate consumers Actions” programme - which been more important for social media, and this number conversion opportunities. and cause them to click away, allows retailers to list their retailers who take the time goods across Google Search, to get this balance right will Google Express, and even via “The fact that so many of the UK’s top see customer engagement Google Home smart speaker and conversion rates soar. – could be key to raising retailers are still not taking full advantage Despite these benefits, we this relatively low uptake. of online retail presents tremendous growth found that almost a third (30 per cent) of retailers currently z RETAILERS MUST opportunities for innovative, forward- do not use pop-ups in any form; LOOK FORWARD OR a clear missed opportunity. BE LEFT BEHIND thinking businesses that place customer It’s also important to The fact that so many of the remember the value of cross- UK’s top retailers are still not needs at front of mind.” selling and up-selling tactics – taking full advantage of online which one in seven (14 per cent) retail presents tremendous of retailers currently fail to do. growth opportunities for To increase basket values, innovative, forward-thinking brands can make use of clever businesses that place customer up-selling buttons and pop-ups needs at front of mind. such as ‘Complete the look’, To flourish, retailers need to ‘Customers also bought’, or ‘You look forward to the innovations might also like’ suggestions to and trends which will shape encourage customers to consider online retail and move quickly to other products. Even last-minute offer consumers exciting new offers towards the end of the shopping experiences if they payment “funnel” such as gift are to earn their ongoing loyalty. wrapping or premium delivery This is not being done enough can be a great way to add value. as it stands, as demonstrated by Up-selling tactics such as Instagram’s recent introduction this can be responsible for of “shoppable posts” in the as much as 31 per cent of UK – one of the most exciting eCommerce site revenues, which developments in social demonstrates how valuable these commerce for a long time – tools can be to retailers looking thus far being ignored by 80 per to grow their online offering. cent of the Top 500 UK retailers. Retailers that maximise z MAKING EFFECTIVE their social media offering, take USE OF THIRD-PARTY steps to increase average basket MARKETPLACES values and proactively explore More customers than ever now the options presented by third- start their purchase journey on party shopping channels such market places like Amazon and as eBay, Amazon and Google eBay, and studies show that will be best-placed to weather more than half (55 per cent) of the storm currently buffeting consumers start their product UK retail and not just survive searches on Amazon alone. – but thrive – in the ever-more Subsequently, selling on these competitive retail landscape.

www.craftbusiness.com RETAIL 25

Dip in sales? The personal touch Russell Jones, General Manager at First Data UK, believes Bounce back independent retailers can boost sales by collecting data and creating with these a personal experience z The large chains are manager to accountant when they purchase certain always going to be tricky and even HR director. items and what sells the to beat on prices and It’s all part of the job and best can really help you stock numbers, but where for many it is a labour of bridge the gap between top tips independent outlets can love. However, as a result of vendor and customer. succeed is by hitting them taking on such tremendous Part of increasing sales where they struggle to responsibility, time is often at can be put down to making Natasha Necati, from compete due to their scale a premium and there could the effort to create a personal Romford-based Crafty Arts, – the personal approach. A be a risk of both stress and experience. This is a benefit small retailer is sometimes exhaustion, which can be you have earned by working gives the benefit of her experience a one-man-band. They alleviated by the incorporation hard at your small business are not simply the owner of some helpful software. and this is something that in how to increase sales - instead their role covers Collecting data on the large, anonymous chains a number of titles from how your customers shop, simply cannot compete with. z BE THE CUSTOMER It’s important to put yourself in the position of the customer. Walk around your shop and imagineABC the items1.4 3 col_ADS that your 19/04/2018 top customers 16:23 would Page 1 want to see in specific areas. For example, items topped up on the No spring in the step for March counters. It’s also important to make sure that all items are clearly labelled z Footfall on the high street East, -6.5 per cent, and in the highlights that shoppers face and priced, if you walk around the store and you can’t see how much a saw a steep decline for March. East Midlands, -5.6 per cent. more choice in terms of how, product costs, naturally you’re much more likely to walk out! Year-on-year, footfall in March Growth fell in all shopping where and when they shop.” decreased by 6.0 per cent, a destinations: high streets Diane Wehrle, Springboard z SHOP ENTRANCE substantial decline compared to saw a decline of 8.6 per cent, Marketing and Insights Director, The entrance is the best place for your promotion area. It’s the part of the positive rate of 1.3 per cent retail parks of 1.8 per cent and said: “The severe weather put your shop that the customers see initially so it’s the first impressions seen for March 2017 and the shopping centres of 4.8 per cent. paid to any glimmer of hope that count. In order to make the promotion work, the promotions need steepest year on year fall since Helen Dickinson OBE, for an uplift in shopper activity to grab the customer’s attention; we do this in two ways. the end of 2010. The 12-month Chief Executive British Retail in March. A proportion of this First you have to create a sense of urgency, that this deal won’t last average is -1.4 per cent. Consortium, said: “While was made up over Easter, with for a long period of time. For example stickers with phrases such as There was no growth in the prolonged period of bad footfall in shopping centres “Hurry! Offer ends soon!” etc. footfall for any UK regions, weather has had an impact on and retail parks rising from Second, the offer needs to be appealing to the customer. Perhaps most notable declines (year- shoppers visiting the high street, last Easter but this was more you could piggy back on an upcoming calendar event - for example, in on-year) were seen in Greater we are seeing a longer term than offset by the impact of the the craft world there always seems to be a special day such as National London, -7.5 per cent, South trend of reduced footfall which heavy rain on high streets.” Knitting Day, etc. The offer needs to be attractive. z CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE These days customers do not just want to buy a product but they want to enjoy the experience. It all begins by making the right additions to your team, especially with an arts and crafts store, making sure that your employees are knowledgable, confident and engaging. We also find that creating a positive, trusting working environment in turn makes staff feel more comfortable in their role and able to offer a more profound and eclectic customer experience. z WINDOW DISPLAY What does your window display say about your shop? Is it intriguing, enticing, is it too busy or too bland. Walk past your shop, stand across the road, look at it from different angles to see what your customers see.

www.craftbusiness.com 26 PRODUCT NEWS Buyer’s Hub

Ecoline Brush Pens Adding to Boho Indian Roses New range launched Now available in 59 different brush Spirit range Blanket Kit Claritystamp launch their brand colour markers including the three Cygnet have launched two This exclusive West Yorkshire new range of Fresh Cut Die’s on primary colours; lemon yellow, new additions to their ever Spinners and Janie Crow May 6. The Botanical Apertures magenta and sky blue. Great adhesion popular Boho Spirit range. collaboration is available now. collection comprises of eight to water colour, drawing paper and Deep and Harmony are Kit includes 28 balls of yarn, luxury 4” x 4” dies that are a must board plus it’s not waterproof when available to order now. pattern and branded bag. have in any crafter’s collection. dry so can be worked on further! [email protected] [email protected] www.Claritystamp.com www.royaltalens.com www.cygnetyarns.com 01535 664500 01732 868215

Pigma Micron PN Rustic Wedding Very British Toddler Knits New for GellyRoll The Pigma Micron PN is ideal Collection launched 25 timeless, hand-knitted, classically-British New for 2018 the Sakura for everyday writing, bullet Crafter’s Companion launch a brand designs. Designed by Susan Campbell GellyRoll Classic in White is now journaling, hand lettering new Rustic Wedding Collection, with the young Royals very much in available in three line widths; 05 and much more! This ink is featuring everything needed to create mind based on the popularity of Prince Fine, 08 Medium and 10 Bold. quick drying, non bleeding, beautiful projects from cards and gifts George and Princess Charlotte’s outfits. Perfect for highlights, tonal fade resistant and works to wedding decor and invitations. 01892 510850 drawing and ideal for working perfectly with archival inks. 01388660242 [email protected] with dark backgrounds. www.royaltalens.com www.crafterscompanion.co.uk www.searchpress.com www.royaltalens.com

Margo – so versatile New additions to Mettler Silk-Finish Cotton Destiny from the This Sew La Di Da Vintage Pattern is popular range The perfect sewing and quilting thread Heritage Collection fabulously versatile and comes with STAEDTLER has extended its popular for cotton creations including a high These Sew La Di Da Vintage Patterns two different neck lines with the option 308 pigment liner range with the breaking point, reduced shrinkage and a are are printed on 60grm Paper,and for shorts, inviting a wide age range introduction of six new colours in natural shine. Complete with 96 colours each size is represented by a different to make her. Sew La Di Da customers two line widths. They are perfect for from the range in 150m spools, this case colour. Looks great in a variety of have made her up in all sorts of ways; writing, drawing and sketching. is ideal for keeping threads organised. fabrics. Each pattern comes with a nautical, chiffon, cotton, lace and more. www.staedtler.co.uk 0116 271 0033 little booklet with how-to-instructions. [email protected] 0845 600 5930 www.eqsuk.com [email protected]

www.craftbusiness.com INTERVIEW 27

Craft BUSINESS All hail the AWARDS Queen 2018 Sheena Douglass, winner of the Craft Business Awards 2018 Brand Ambassador of the Year, talks about her life in craft z Sheena Douglass is z HOW DIFFICULT WAS IT affectionately known as TO GET YOUR FIRST RANGE Crafter’s Companion’s Queen OF STAMPS PRODUCED? of Messy Crafting. As well I started designing stamps as presenting her range of because of my art background products regularly on Hochanda, – to be honest I did a few to she spends her time time start with just to see whether I making cards, papercrafting, could remember to draw! I had drawing and designing. no idea whether they would be popular with crafters or not. z WHAT LED YOU TO My first collection was based A LIFE IN CRAFT? on my own bear and it sold My love of drawing and art out really quickly. This spurred started me off on this career me on to design more and path – for as long as I can I’ve not looked back since! remember I’ve drawn. My mother wasn’t a papercrafter, z HOW DID YOU DEVELOP she was a baker, but she AND DIVERSIFY encouraged me endlessly YOUR RANGE? by giving me little craft kits I simply kept true to my style from a very early age. of drawing and crafting, which seemed to appeal to many z WHEN DID YOU like-minded stampers. Once I’d REALISE YOU WERE established my signature messy GOOD AT ART AND WHO style, I was then able to vary the ENCOURAGED YOU TO themes of my collections and try CONTINUE WITH IT? new things. Crafter’s Companion My family have always is a fabulous company to work in the moment by focusing on hand and pre-prepare certain crafters, so it’s very important. encouraged my drawing, and with, and Sara and the team give just the task in hand. I think it elements of it if necessary to I love how I can share my day- after school I went to study me lots of support for trying gives us a chance to recharge keep the video interesting. to-day musings and inspirations art for a year at Newcastle. different styles and ideas. our batteries physically, mentally with them, and they can give It was actually my mum that and definitely creatively! z YOU ALSO FEATURE ON me feedback on the products got me into cardmaking – she z HOW DO YOU COME UP HOCHANDA – HOW DOES they love and share the card encouraged me to watch Dawn WITH YOUR DESIGNS? z WHAT IS YOUR THAT DIFFER FROM YOUR designs they’re most proud of. Bibby on a shopping channel WHAT GIVES YOU FAVOURITE CRAFT? YOUTUBE TUTORIALS? when she was doing stamping. INSPIRATION? I’m all about stamping. When Live TV is very different to filming z DO YOU ENJOY THE I immediately bought some Inspiration for my stamp sets I first started stamping I used a tutorial as you have to think on PROCESS OF PLANNING stamps and became hooked. comes from everywhere, from art to colour the images with H2O your feet and can’t retake anything DEMONSTRATIONS? and design trends to home décor paints, moving on to Distress that goes wrong. I used to be very Anything that requires me to z WHAT MADE YOU items to the nature all around us. inks and then progressed on to nervous before TV shows until craft is an enjoyable process DECIDE TO JOIN THE I love being in the countryside Spectrum Noir pens, using them a presenter told me that nobody to me! It’s always a great CRAFT INDUSTRY? – going for a walk is always a to create my own backgrounds. would know and I looked like I had privilege to be able to share America came calling after I’d great way to get inspired! I’m I’ve also been dabbling in sewing been doing it all my life! I realised my knowledge and ideas finished studying and I went to also always being inspired by but I’m still a complete beginner. then that the demons were only in with so many other crafters, live in California for three-and- my fabulous Design Team, the my head, so I stopped panicking and education is a large part a-half years. When I first came Inkoids – the genius techniques z IS THE MESSY that I was showing myself up! of why I do what I do. back there was a long time they use in their samples always NICKNAME DESERVED? Now I just enjoy the shows – still where I didn’t do any drawing spark off an idea or two. I like to use colouring products get nervous when I’m launching z WHAT TRENDS DO at all. I had to get a ‘proper’ job in my own special way and one of my new designs though in YOU SEE COMING and any drawing kind of just z WHAT DO YOU DO those that know me know case the viewers don’t like them. UP THIS YEAR? went out the window. I missed TO RELAX? that I love messy, chaotic, I think Mixed Media is going it, and when the opportunity I craft, of course! Crafting is a unconventional styles of crafting. z DO YOU ENJOY to become bigger and bigger came up to work in the industry, way of stepping off the treadmill, So yes, it is well deserved! PASSING ON YOUR for crafters this year. It works I grabbed it with both hands. slowing time down and living TIPS TO CRAFTERS? well with stamping, as all z YOU HAVE A LOT OF I absolutely love sharing my kinds of different materials TUTORIAL VIDEOS ON designs and passing on my and fabrics can be stamped. YOUR YOUTUBE enthusiasm for craft, and it gives I’ve had lots of fun mixing it PAGE. HOW DO me great job satisfaction to see up with new techniques and YOU PREPARE TO people’s skills progressing and crafts recently, such as last PUT TOGETHER developing. Getting feedback year’s fabric stamping bag kit A TUTORIAL? from crafters who didn’t believe collaboration with Lizzy Curtis. I base my tutorials on they could stamp or paint exciting new products or until they tried my products or z HOW PLEASED WERE techniques that I’d like watched a show is absolutely YOU TO WIN THE CRAFT to show to other crafters. priceless and very humbling. BUSINESS AWARD? Sometimes I’ll have people I was absolutely thrilled, get in touch to ask me to z HOW IMPORTANT as it’s always lovely to be demonstrate a particular HAS SOCIAL MEDIA recognised in the industry for craft. I always make up the BECOME TO YOU NOW? your work. Thanks so much project first as a prototype, Social media has become a to everyone who voted for then I gather everything to huge part of how I interact with me – it’s hugely appreciated.

www.craftbusiness.com 28 JEWELLERY Make it meaningful ImpressArt’s Laura Avitabile tells us about the new trends in personalisation

z Jewellery is one of the most of what can be created are personal additions to someone’s endless. One popular type of BEADALON mini page_ADS 18/04/2018 14:50 Page 1 wardrobe. In our society, mass meaningful jewellery that lends produced clothing is so common, itself to hand stamping are that it makes it difficult for people pieces that include talismans. to express their individuality Talismans can be as through what they wear. simple as a basic image, or as While hundreds of people intricate as elaborate patterns. When discussing meaningful may have the same top or pants Through the hundreds of jewellery, it is impossible not as one another, there is always different design stamps offered to mention the timeless trend the opportunity to differentiate by ImpressArt including animals, of personalisation, which is of their looks through jewellery. the elements (fire, water, earth), course, one of the main purposes One of the latest trends letters, or even numbers, simple, of hand stamping. The beauty of when it comes to jewellery single-stamped pendants hand stamping is that any word, is sporting pieces that hold and charms can be created quote, or date can turn a simple, a special meaning to the to wear alone, or to add to an common piece of jewellery wearer. Creating hand-stamped existing piece of jewellery. into something that holds deep jewellery is the perfect way to For more complex talisman meaning to any individual. PEAK DALE 1.8 2 COL_ADS 20/04/2018 14:15 Page 1 cater to this on-trend audience pieces, ImpressArt Mandala ImpressArt makes it easy that craves exclusivity. Stamp Packs can be used to to find the right stamps to Through the art of hand create detailed motifs that create meaningful jewellery. To stamping, the possibilities may hold spiritual meaning view a full range of ImpressArt to some, or simply serve as a stamps and products visit beautiful design to others. www.impressart.com. You don’t have to be rich to sparkle.

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www.craftbusiness.com JEWELLERY 29

z The trend for multi-hole beads continues apace. They add a whole new dimension to jewellery making - many can easily be Multi-hole beads incorporated into your beadwork while they also give the potential for some really creative designs. Here at Creative Beadcraft, add a new dimension we’re continuing to expand our range of multi-hole beads with some exciting new arrivals. to jewellery New from Preciosa are the two-hole bow beads. These large 3.5x13.5mm beads have a Laura Ells, from Creative Beadcraft, explains the latest distinctive shape. They are easy to use and look striking with the trends in beads and how you can take advantage of them 12mm 2-hole Preciosa candy CREATIVE BEADCRAFT 1.4 3 COL_ADS 20/04/2018 15:51 Page 1 beads but can also be used with seed beads to create more the individualistic fine rocks tube of long necklaces of varying fine rock tube beads are ideal intricate designs. Another large beads and geometric flatbacks. lengths and just add a few for creating interesting but chic 2-hole bead which is making With rhinestones also featuring beads or charms to keep the tasselled earrings and pendants. waves at the moment is the prominently on the catwalks, feminine look while adding Broadly, colour trends also 9x17mm carrier or pillow bead. Swarovski crystal is perfect interest. This look also works take two opposing directions. colour trends is to display sample These traditional Czech beads for adding sparkle and glitz. well with multiple delicate chain The pantone colour of the year pieces. Many suppliers, including are wrapped with strips of peyote Jewellery designs have bracelets and slim rings. With is ultra violet and bold yellow is ourselves, provide free patterns beadwork showing off a variety several opposing influences this look, small discreet studs set to make a comeback as the which can be used to make up of designs using Miyuki delicas with key trends being either and elegant dangly earrings such complementary colour to purple. pieces or to give to customers. or other small seed beads. simple and elegant or as chain drop earrings are in as Vibrant colours such as tomato Workshops can also work well. There are several new extravagant show-stoppers. these are very wearable with red, bright blue, intense rose and Websites can, of course, use small and versatile multi-hole Earrings remain a huge the romantic looks. Swarovski lime punch are also part of the similar techniques to inspire beads. The 4x6mm diamonduo fashion area and are a great way framed or rimmed flatbacks and trend for colourful expression. The their customers and show them mini joins the classic 5x8mm to update your look. Statement cabochons pearls make classic opposing theme favours pretty how to create the latest looks. diamonduo beads from Bead earrings are still very in and the studs while their pearls and pastels, particularly lavender, for For more information please Master. The 4x6.5mm 2-hole design can vary enormously. small pendants are perfect for a more ethereal feminine look. call 01494 786924, email beads@ diamond beads have joined the Trend forecasts are that earrings elegant chain drop earrings. One of the best ways shops creativebeadcraft.co.uk or visit CzechMates range and, while will get even longer, reaching Tassels continue to be a big can take advantage of new www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk for designed to work as a structural well below the shoulders! trend and the new Swarovski beads and beading style and details about their trade website. addition, are also useful angled The catwalks featured spacers. The latest beads in a-symmetrical or mis-matching Les Perles par Puca range are earrings to create an abstract and the 5x8mm Amos par Puca individualistic look. Big, bold and “Tassels continue to be a big trend and the new Swarovski fine rock tube beads are • Over 7,500 quality beads, findings, tools and accessories ideal for creating interesting • Very competitive trade prices but chic tasselled earrings • Dedicated wholesale website for trade customers • Huge selection of Czech glass beads and pendants.” • Swarovski beads, pearls and stones beads which make beautiful glitzy styles are still very much in • Czech and Japanese seed beads flower shapes and cute little with chandelier earrings – either • Loose beads, strings, hanging tubes and candy tubes heart motifs. There seems one or two – featuring strongly • Retail-ready packs, strings & hanging tubes to be no end to the variety as well as outsize hoops. The of multi-hole beads with the baroque-style earrings trend • Starter Selections comma-shaped 5x8mm zoliduos with gemstones and pearls is • Friendly service and advice proving particularly popular. perfect for Swarovski where the Bead-weaving continues to requisite sparkle and bling can • Please quote CB0518 for free trade pack be a very popular technique and be created in a more affordable both Czech and Japanese seed way, including using Swarovski beads are selling strongly. The sew-on stones. Chunky chain is Toho seed beads are proving paired with outsized pendants particularly popular and there are is set to come in while brooches some great new colours available are forecast to make a comeback including bright permanent coupled with a glitzy vintage look. finish galvanized seed beads. Conversely, feminine and Swarovski crystal is delicate jewellery is also a perennially popular. Their latest major trend. The new Swarovski collection, Wanderlust, has taken classic cut pendants inspired by advantage of the multi-hole bead gemstones look gorgeous on fine trend with a new range of round, chain. Romantic and delicate www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk square and hexagon 2-hole spike chain anklets also feature. beads while it also includes Layered looks are also on- 01494 786924 [email protected] the multi-facetted gemstone- trend, particularly for necklaces. inspired classic cut pendants, Use fine chain to create layers

www.craftbusiness.com 30 JEWELLERY

Hi ho Silver away! Metal clay artist and teacher Anna Campbell argues that you should consider working with silver clay as a craft business or to diversify your current business

z 2018 has been a big year z BUT IS IT REAL SILVER? with metals is the amount of pressing the silver clay in the z HOW CAN I USE for silver clay. With two BBC Yes. Both types of silver clay can tools and the cost of these. mould and waiting for it to dry. SILVER CLAY IN MY programmes featuring it; be assayed and hallmarked. Many of us simply don’t have CRAFT BUSINESS? Craft Britain and Countryfile, the space to have a jewellery z PERSONALISED Many metal clay artists (including and Ed Sheeran wearing a z HOW CAN IT BE USED? workshop or the money to JEWELLERY me!) sell their work successfully. silver clay engagement ring Silver clay can be used in lots pay for a rolling mill. A benefit Personalised jewellery It is also a great way to made by his fiance; people of ways which makes it a very of working with silver clay continues to be popular so add to or diversify your existing have become more aware of flexible material. You can is you probably have a lot silver clay is perfect for this craft business. For example, it and the potential it has. z Texture it with texture of the tools you need to get trend as it can be stamped if you already sell beaded mats and textured papers started, especially if you are with letters, symbols etc with jewellery it is a way of adding z WHAT IS SILVER CLAY? z Use cutters including a serial crafter like me! All rubber stamps. It can also be value to your current designs. Silver clay is a product made those used for sugarcraft of my main metal clay tools ‘engraved’ at the dry stage of If you do card making you from recycled fine silver particles, and cake decorating can fit into one A4 box! the clay. Silver clay is what could add bespoke silver charms an organic binder and water. This z Hand shape and carve the clay jewellers use when they are to your cards and increase their makes it clay-like rather than z Press the silver clay into moulds z BASIC TOOLS FOR making bespoke fingerprint, value. You also probably already hard like the silver that traditional z Once it is fired silver you METAL CLAY handprint or footprint jewellery have lots of textured papers you silversmiths use. can solder, hammer etc z Acrylic roller and many have been able to can use to texture your clay! It can be sculpted, textured, z Mat or ceramic tile set up successful businesses If you sew or knit you can make stamped and cut using tools you z HOW CAN I PRACTICE? z Playing cards or spacer slats offering this service. your own bespoke silver buttons. might more readily associate Silver is a precious material so z Textures and cutters If you have lots of rubber with paper crafters or you should ensure you know z Butane torch (a cook’s z ADDING COLOUR stamps you could make cake decorators. what you want to do before creme brule torch will do!) Colour can be added in an personalised jewellery. There are two main brands you open up your packet. You z Firing brick number of ways including Anna Campbell is a metal clay of silver clay - Art Clay and can practice with polymer clay z Wooden handled tweezers enamelling, coloured resins artist and teacher in Edinburgh. PMC (precious metal clay). to perfect your design before z Brass brush and adding gold leaf. Anna is also the Community They both manufacture fine you get started. Just ensure Manager and tutor for the silver (999) and sterling silver that you clean your tools, mats, z MAKING MULTIPLES z GOLD PLATING Jewellers Academy, an online (925) clays. The clay is pre- textures etc carefully before One of the great benefits of You can gold plate silver resource for jewellers looking to mixed and ready to use. you start with the silver as it silver clay is the ability to easily clay pieces yourself but I grow their own businesses and If you are a beginner I would could get contaminated. make multiples of pieces. When tend to get this done at a develop their making skills. Online suggest trying the fine silver I have a popular design I make caster. It’s great to easily silver clay classes are available at versions (these are called Art z WHAT EQUIPMENT a mould of it using the silicone be able to offer different www.jewellersacademy.com Clay Silver and PMC3) before IS NEEDED? moulding compound siligum. I price points for your work To buy silver clay and find out trying sterling silver clay as One of the drawbacks of can then easily make multiple and rose gold is particularly more about how it is used check this needs to be kiln fired. traditional methods of working copies of the same piece by popular at the moment. out http://www.metalclay.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com INTERVIEW 31

Hours As... Craft BUSINESS AWARDS 24 Martin de la Bedoyere 2018 Martin de la Bedoyere, managing director of Search Press, a leading art and craft publisher in the UK and winner of the Craft Business Awards 2018 Best Book Publisher of the Year, tells us about his day z What time do you wake oversee every aspect of their z How does a typical up and what does your pre- job. I much prefer to see people afternoon take shape? work routine look like? grow and develop within a role. Most days I speak to the US office Getting up is generally one of I believe you can only do this if about sales and stock by Skype. the hardest things I do all day. I you let your staff have freedom Search Press is a global operation have never been an early bird and to do the job as they see fit. I and our books sell all over the have always had to drag myself am always on hand to guide, world. We follow international Martin with Debbie Shore out of bed. The consequence is redirect and advise if needed. trends and often translate that I am generally hideously late I am not a meetings person books from other countries to for everything in the morning. A and we only have essential introduce new techniques to Marketing Director meant I could Club, an internet subscription cup of coffee and a quick glance ones at Search Press. One the English-speaking world. We apply for the MD’s job at Search site, launching this summer is at my overnight emails from of the most important is the make books that will appeal Press, rather than just being given a great example of what can far-flung places in the world is production meeting, where we equally in Birmingham, UK, it by my mother, the founder in be born out of the creative basically all I can manage before confirm the status of each title or Birmingham, Alabama. 1970. I must have passed the process. We have only ever jumping in the car and driving under development and finalise I am generally the last to leave interview. That was 20 years ago. published art and craft books the 1.2 miles to work. I am what books we will publish six and enjoy the quiet time after that support the craft industry. usually last in – pathetic I know, months ahead. Our editors are everyone has gone home. The z What advice would you have Books are so important for all with such an easy commute. brilliant, and they work as a team evenings are my best time to for someone looking to get the crafters out there. They with our wonderful authors to delve deep into reprints and really into your particular industry? teach, stimulate ideas, inspire z You get into work – what produce the finest books we think about the wider issues. Be prepared to do almost and sell products for the retailer. does a typical morning can. We exist in a multimedia anything to get in at the ground look like for you? world and we know that for a z What time do you leave? And floor. Get noticed, make an z What are the most challenging First off, every morning is to re- book to be successful it must what kinds of things do you impact and work towards getting parts of your job? read and respond to emails that offer something to the reader like to get up in the evening? to do what you really want. Staff issues are always a I glanced at earlier. This can last that other channels cannot. We Normally between 7 and 8, Getting the job is only the start challenge. At Search Press we do all morning. I find it extraordinary strive tirelessly to achieve this. usually fairly exhausted, ready of the journey. You must work everything from commissioning how much time we spend Our sales and feedback from for supper, a glass or two of hard, excel in what you do and books all the way though to answering emails. What on earth the market suggest we get this my favourite red wine and the identify the things that are really warehouse and delivery. So we did we all do before they were right almost all of the time. latest episode of the particular going to make a difference. employ highly trained editors and invented? We now live in a 24- box set that holds my current unskilled warehouse operators. hour world where people expect z What time do you take fancy. Normally they’re the z What are the best Keeping such a diverse responses if not instantaneously lunch, and what do you do ones with aliens and star parts of your job? group happy in a relatively then certainly within a few hours. on your lunch break? What ships – complete escapism. The most critical meeting we small team is stimulating. Then it’s time to look at sales do you typically eat? have is the publishing meeting. figures, go to production or Around 1pm. We provide food z Finally, what time do For me this is the fun part of my z What does 2018 hold for you? publishing meetings, troubleshoot for the staff at Search Press. One you typically go to bed job. Dreaming up new ideas for Some brilliant books that problems or deal with staff of the best part of the day is to on a work night? content, format and packaging editorial are nurturing now for issues. I have an excellent and sit in the kitchen with the other Much later than I should is very rewarding. It’s a forum for publication next year. We have experienced management team members of staff and chat about new ideas which is stimulating been at the forefront of the art at Search Press, so things only almost anything over a toasted z A BIT ABOUT YOU and creative and the reason and craft industry for many get referred to me if needed, sandwich. We have our own in- How did you come to work we all wanted so badly to work years. I see no reason why that and that’s the way I like it. I have house photography studio so it’s in your current position? in publishing. Increasingly we should change, provided we carry always believed it pointless always a pleasure when authors Eleven years at Reed Elsevier (an brainstorm other ways to sell our on producing the best books to employ someone and then join us for a kitchen lunch. academic publisher), finishing as content. Debbie Shore’s Half Yard and content money can buy.

www.craftbusiness.com 32 BUSINESS ADVICE Financial checklist for new business owners Michael Cope, Managing Director of Ellis Bates, a privately owned, independent financial planning company (IFA) offers advice for Business owners. As one of the longest established IFA firms operating in the UK, they provide independent and impartial advice to individuals, families and corporate clients SEARCH PRESS 1.4 3 col_ADS 18/04/2018 14:53 Page 1

z Running a business is a z EXPLORE BUSINESS to establish your personal goals “Financial demands are often full-time occupation which can GOALS AND PERSONAL in the same way you put together inevitably lead to some firms GOALS IN EQUAL MEASURE your business plans and endless for a business owner, overlooking vital aspects of There are many cases in which determine what can be achieved the financial planning process. business goals and personal in both the short and the long so it is critical to monitor If you’re looking for some top goals can clash and striking the term. Think carefully about what tips to manage your business’ right balance between them is the success looks like to you as well your outgoings and conserve finances, here is a simple key to achieving in both aspects as determining what is possible money where possible to save checklist to get you started, of your life. for you to achieve within your from Independent Financial As a business owner, you company’s budget. for emergencies.” Advisors, Ellis Bates. should make a conscious effort z PROTECT THE MICHAEL COPE – MANAGING DIRECTOR OF ELLIS BATES PEOPLE WHO DRIVE YOUR BUSINESS Protect the people who drive Within the legal It’s true to say that any business your business through key person requirements, your is only as good as the people in it insurance. responsibilities include enrolling and every company has key This is designed to those eligible employees who people who are driving it forward. compensate your business for meet the criteria into a Many businesses recognise the the financial loss brought about workplace pension scheme and need to insure their company by the death or critical illness of a making minimum contributions property, equipment and fixed key employee. It can provide a towards it, otherwise known as assets. However, they continually valuable cash injection to the automatic enrolment. As well as overlook their most important business to aid the potential loss making sure you are legally assets, the people who drive the of turnover and provide funds to compliant, a well-planned business – a key employee, seek a new resource where auto-enrolment pension Director or shareholder. needed. scheme will show your employees that you are fully z CONTROL YOUR prepared, and can therefore UNNECESSARY EXPENSES contribute to their overall work No matter what your business, satisfaction. even your best ideas will fail The minimum contribution if they don’t make a profit. levels for employers and Track your expenses carefully employees are increased in and be mindful of unnecessary April so you should ensure you expenses and overlaps which and your staff are fully prepared could be avoided. Financial for this. demands are often endless for Failure to fulfil your legal a business owner, so it is critical obligations could see you face to monitor your outgoings and penalties including heavy fines conserve money where possible and even court action. A to save for emergencies. proactive scheme will enable to you to comply with the rules z ESTABLISH AN both now and in the future. AUTO-ENROLMENT PENSION SCHEME z FINAL THOUGHTS Failure to comply with the Financial planning for your workplace pension laws could business requires regular see your company in very hot reviews, as your goals and water and as a small business financial situations are likely to you must have a workplace change over time, as do the pension in place by your staging strategies for managing your date. This date is set in law and is wealth. By following some of the date your automatic these tips you may avoid enrolment obligation either came unnecessary conflict and get into effect or is due to come into your company’s finances effect. healthy in 2018.

www.craftbusiness.com SEW SATURDAY 2018 33 The early bird catches the best deals Grab your chance to take advanatge of some exclusive offers

z It’s time to start thinking about leading brands, which can be this year’s Sew Saturday. used for prizes, demonstrations, The campaign was initially workshops and more; a free launched four years ago by Sew paper pattern to use for magazine and its sister titles, demonstrations or as a prize Crafts Beautiful, Make It Today giveaway and an Early Bird Dressmaker, Let’s Knit, Let’s Get discount, saving 20 per cent off Crafting and Craft Business. the entire campaign when you In an age of online shopping, sign up early and pay up front. the idea is to show people what’s Stuart Stamp, from Brother great about going to a bricks-and- Sewing UK, said: “The concept mortar store – being able to see of Sew Saturday is what we’re and touch fabrics, ask the staff all about here at Brother for advice, take part in workshops more – plus a cuppa and slice Sewing. Encouraging people to and meet like-minded stitchers. of cake, of course! come together to share their Last year’s event was another “It’s overwhelming to have advice and project inspiration great success and it’s time to the support of these stores, is a must in creating a sense gear up for 2018’s Sew Saturday their customers and the sewing of community and supporting to be held on October 6. community as a whole.” each other as passionate Speaking about last year’s Sew Saturday continues to sewers! event Jennifer Ward, editor of celebrate the independent “Local stores and Sew magazine, said: “Sewing and fabric stores and haberdashers, independent retailers are key to haberdashery shops across the this year the first 100 shops this as they provide that all country joined our campaign by that sign up will have access to important expert knowledge on putting on another great show, Early Bird exclusive offers. the ground. By allowing crafters hosting a day of stitchy activities These include a Goodie bag to try a range of machines and offering their readers that includes: accessories and in-store, pick the specialists’ discounts, offers, workshops and vouchers from the industry’s brains and mingle with like-minded people, events like these can help them find something to suit their level of expertise and creative ambitions.” This year’s Sew Saturday welcome pack includes the new mascots – unicorns Spirit and Unity – available in pincushion, toy, patchwork and quilt designs, to cater for all skill levels, ages and interests; Customised posters, event props to take your #SewSelfie, £30 plus VAT for the December- flyers, offer signage and and ten copies of Sew Magazine February issues. save-the-date slips; 13 website for your customers. To sign up head on over to graphics to choose from Each shop will also receive a www.sewmag.co.uk/sew- including badges, logos and full colour classified advert in the saturday/signup . email templates for newsletters; Sew Saturday Directory in the Alternatively contact Anna social media images to choose August-November issues of Sew on 01206 505932 or email anna. HANTEX 1.4 5 col_ADS 18/04/2018 14:50 Page 1 from that include profile photos, Magazine, for a small [email protected], also cover images, social media administrative fee of £40 plus Hannah on 01206 505495 or post; Printable photo booth VAT per issue, then reduced to [email protected]

www.craftbusiness.com 34 RETAIL CLINIC Perfecting your brand image

memorable you are, the more Crafter’s Companion founder, Sara Davies MBE, explains the importance your customers will come back. A cohesive brand will of businesses getting their branding right also make your business slick and professional. A good brand image inspires trust and lets z Branding can be the be all online or new customers know you are a and end all for a business. To has a physical legitimate and honest business. be successful it is important store presence, it is crucial to CRAFTERS COMPANION mini_ADS 19/04/2018 15:38 Page 1 to have a brand that your take the time to think about z CUSTOMER SERVICE customers remember and how your company looks and Whilst looks really do matter, build an affinity with. When sounds. Ask yourself, what your company ethos and how you get your brand image right, sort of customers you want you treat your customers you reap the rewards - but to attract and what image is just as important as how do you get started? you want to portray and think your visual image when about where you see your it comes to your overall z IMAGE IS EVERYTHING business in the future? From brand and reputation. Good First off, your brand image is here, you can build a brand customer service and loyalty far more than just your logo or that will support you while schemes will all encourage shop front signage. It includes you grow your company and customers to keep coming everything from your font and get to where you want to be. back time and time again. your colour palette to your photography and your tone of z USP z OUTSOURCE voice – your brand image is your Another effective way to perfect And, if you are struggling to entire visual representation! your brand image is to consider find the time to devote to Whether your business is how you can set yourself apart your brand image, consider from your competitors. What is outsourcing to a reputable your USP? Perhaps you have a company who specialise in craft cafe or supply specialist this! Do check reviews and stock. Whatever it may be, ask for recommendations, so think about how you are going that you can have faith in your to communicate this to your choice and ensure good results. customers. Your USP should be Whilst it may take up a chunk part of your branding, whether of your budget, outsourcing that’s through a strapline or is a great way to free up your your photography, so make time so that you can focus on sure you incorporate it. other aspects of your business that will help to generate z CONSISTENCY further revenue and growth! Once you have finalised your So, there you have it, my top branding, it is vital to ensure it tips on perfecting your brand is consistent across all of your image. Good luck creating channels. This is so important a brand your customers because it helps you become will remember and don’t well recognised! The more forget to have fun with it!

“Ask yourself, what sort of customers you want to attract and what image you want to portray and think about where you see your business in the future?”

www.craftbusiness.com CLASSIFIED FILLER_ADS 20/04/2018 14:20 Page 1

INTERVIEW 35

(my dad was a photographer), a stylish open-plan living room, DOING THE Minutes With... and a Jeep in the garage. BUSINESS… z What is the one craft tool you EDITOR would save in a house fire? Mark Hayhurst All the craft tools I use could 01206 508618 Susie Johns be replaced – but I would try [email protected] to save my sketch books. HEAD OF EDITORIAL 5 (BUSINESS) The experienced crafter and author tells us about z If you had to pick just Fae Gilfillan one craft above all others [email protected] her life and love of knitting, crochet and drawing what would it be? I would love to give you a ADVERTISING MANAGER straightforward answer but I Danielle Harris 01206 505954 z Tell me a little about later, when I was at university I worked in-house on magazines couldn’t choose just one. Knitting [email protected] your background? and needed to save money and partworks, working my is probably best for garments, I’m from Swansea, South Wales, by making my own clothes. way up through the ranks from especially jumpers, while crochet ACCOUNTS but have lived all my adult life in editorial assistant, sub-editor and is very versatile; but I also love Anne-Marie Hartley London. I studied acting, then z Where do you get deputy editor to senior editor, on hand embroidery. Is drawing a 01206 505902 switched to Fine Art, studying your inspiration? a range of needlecraft, cookery, craft? If so, I’ll pick drawing! SUBSCRIPTIONS MARKETING at Croydon College, Newcastle- I am constantly thinking of ideas. gardening and childcare titles, Holly Rayner upon-Tyne, then Ravensbourne. I carry a sketchbook wherever I until I decided to go it alone. z Which other crafters 01206 505965 I then went on do do a MA in go, and I write notes and make After a lot of perseverance, and do you admire? [email protected] Printmaking at The Slade School, sketches all the time: even using contacts that I had built Kaffe Fasset: he’s a knitter University College London. I’ve at a bus stop or on the Tube. up over the years, I began to get and a painter, which I can THE BAR RATE also got a PGCE from Greenwich Everything I make begins with commissions from various craft completely relate to, and he UK £28.00 Overseas €40.00 University, so I am qualified a drawing. The next stage is to and general interest magazines. is such an inspiration. I am to teach. After college, I went source yarns and make swatches Once I had established myself, also a big fan of Kate Jenkins’ PUBLISHING DIRECTOR straight into publishing. to test out colours, stitches and I put together a portfolio of my work. Her sequinned fish Helen Tudor measurements. The thing I like published work and got my first and shellfish are glorious. z How did you get into knitting? DESIGN: MS Typesetting and Design Both of my grandmothers were “I carry a sketchbook wherever z What do you do to relax? brilliant at sewing, knitting and As a freelance, I work every day, Printed in England crochet, and so were my mum I go, and I write notes and make including weekends, to meet and my aunt. Between them, deadlines and to earn a decent PUBLISHED BY: they taught me. Crochet came living. As well as designing Aceville Publications Ltd sketches all the time: even at a 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, first: back in the 1970s, crochet for magazines and books, I Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY was enjoying a big revival. My bus stop or on the Tube” teach part-time at a local Adult mum wanted a granny square Education College – The Learning ©Aceville Publications Ltd blanket for her bed and we spent best about knitting is that it starts book commission. By the time and Enterprise Centre, Bexley – every spare moment making with such simple ingredients: a that knitting started to enjoy a mostly Knitting, Crochet, Drawing DISCLAIMER:The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the granny squares. Mum got her ball of yarn and a pair of needles. big revival, I was an established and Painting. This means my publishers. Every effort is made to ensure blanket and I learned a new skill. Once I get started on making author, ready and eager to write working life has plenty of variety. the veracity and integrity of the companies, persons, products and services mentioned Knitting and dressmaking came up the design, I often have to my own knitting patterns, for But it’s not all work and no play: in this publication, and details given are measure, re-measure, unpick, both books and magazines. I do take a break from time to believed to be accurate at the time of and start again. There is a certain time. I love visiting art galleries going to press. However no responsibility z or liability whatsoever can be accepted amount of trial and error involved. If you could offer your and museums. From where I for any consequence or repercussion of As I work on a design, I make younger self some advice live I can travel to Tate Modern responding to any information or advice notes, then when the item is what would it be? by boat. I also love The National given or inferred. finished, I type up the notes on my Listen to advice, especially from Portrait Gallery, the V&A, The Apple Mac. Publishers supply their those with plenty of experience, Glynn Vivian Gallery in Swansea, authors with ‘style sheets’ and it and be generous enough to The Museum of Welsh Life at is important to adhere to this as pass on your skills to others. St Fagan’s, near Cardiff, and closely as possible. Having been Above all, believe in yourself. The Scottish National Gallery of an editor myself, it’s something Modern Art in Edinburgh. I also I understand and respect. z What’s your earliest like to visit markets – such as memory of crafting? Greenwich Market, Brick Lane, z You have written a number of Making dolls’ clothes and little Columbia Road and Portobello books. Why did you start writing rugs and pictures for my dolls’ – and to browse in junk shops and how much do you enjoy it? house, which was hand-made by in London, Brighton, Hastings I have been a freelance since my mum and dad as their dream and St Leonards, and car boot 1994. Before that, after university, home, and included a darkroom sales when the weather is nice. WANTED Fabric & Haberdashery & any other clearance stock To advertise in considered for immediate Suppliers of Card Making, Scrapbooking, Craft and Bridal Supplies collection. Please contact Martyn please call Danielle on [email protected] www.www. 01206 505 954 07902 700 780

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