JAKAR front cover_ADS 07/03/2019 11:40 Page 1 £3.50 ISSUE 138 MARCH/APRIL 2019 CraftBusinesswww.craftbusiness.com The leading trade title for the craft industry

AWARDS INFLUENCERS INTERVIEW Craft Best in the BUSINESS Who’s a The Queen AWARDS industry 2019 (paper) cut of Couture celebrated above the rest? Craft P8 P18 P24 ARTCOE page_ADS 08/03/2019 11:25 Page 1 NEWS 3

Patrick Grant launches Future Textiles London Welcome z Patrick Grant, the Savile Row tailor and judge of television’s z Mark Hayhurst z @craftbiz The Great British Sewing Bee, z [email protected] helped to launch The Prince’s Foundation’s fashion and textiles z Well the year seems to be racing ahead already! education programme for At the time of writing this introduction Brexit is still a London secondary school couple of weeks away. And without a crystal ball I have no idea pupils. Patrick what’s going to happen. By the time you read this we could Grant launched Future Grant and have left with a no deal, we could have managed to thrash Textiles London, an extension of a Jacqueline out a deal or the deadline to leave has been extended. One successful initiative by The Prince Farrell at the thing that I hope is that by the next issue all the uncertainty of Wales’s charity, alongside launch of will have gone and we know what we have to deal with. Jacqueline Farrell, co-founder of Future Textiles London, Trinity But on to happier things. I was honoured to hand out the the Future Textiles programme Buoy Wharf. 2019 Craft Business Awards at CHSI Stitches. It was also a that has catered for thousands Picture: Rory pleasure to meet a lot of you at the show and at the ceremony of pupils over five years at James itself, which is always one of the highlights of my year. Dumfries House in Scotland. So well done to all the winners and don’t forget to get Workshops at Trinity Buoy “Our hope is that pupils enrol on the prestigious Future your nominations in later in the year for the 2020 awards! Wharf in Tower Hamlets will learning on workshops at 30 programme, an advanced I hope you enjoy reading this issue. run in line with a model that has Future Textiles London can certificated course that has already encouraged dozens of develop the skills to aid their proven to increase their chances graduates into further education existing education in textiles of gaining a place in further and employment in fashion and that they can be inspired to education and, later, employment. ON THE RECORD and textiles across the UK. The pursue further such study and, Future Textiles forms a key programme is part of a larger eventually, gain work in that field. element of the vision of His Royal “Craft makes me education initiative which will be “Our objective is to address Highness The Prince Charles, run by The Prince’s Foundation at a glaring skills gap in the textiles Duke of Rothesay, who used happy, it allows me to Trinity Buoy Wharf, which will also industry by providing training £20million of his charitable express my creativity feature training in other traditional workshops for secondary school foundation’s money in 2007 to craft skills such as stonemasonry, teachers and pupils, as well as secure the future of Dumfries and brings me a pargetting and thatching. those seeking employability skills.” House and use it to help people Jacqueline Farrell said: The Prince’s Foundation’s engage in learning experiences massive sense of “Although Future Textiles London Future Textiles programme aims that promote confidence and achievement and will share similar principles and to breathe fresh talent into the personal development as objectives with the established UK’s fashion and textiles industry. well as offer training in real- wellbeing.” programme at Dumfries Thousands of school pupils have life skills to open up future House in Scotland, it has been engaged in the programme at employment opportunities. HANNAH READ-BALDREY designed to complement the Dumfries House near Cumnock Schools can enquire teaching and curriculum in since October 2014. Pupils about Future Textiles London place at schools in London and who show particular aptitude by emailing education@ Checker Distributors’ shipping solution throughout the rest of England. on workshops are selected to princes-foundation.org saves money and time for shop owners z Checker Distributors is offering three business day BLUEGEM CAPITAL PARTNERS EXITS THE shipping from the USA to the EU and it’s VAT free. DMC GROUP TO LION CAPITAL Checker Distributors has over 120,000 products and is z Lion Capital LLP (“Lion”) has acquired “Thanks to the team’s work, The DMC Group is the world’s leading supplier purchases are a consolidated Crafts Group Limited (“The DMC Group”) now the undisputed market leader in an attractive of quilting and sewing products. shipment via FedEx, with from BlueGem Capital Partners (“BlueGem”). and resilient niche. There remains substantial Their target customers are no weight requirements. The DMC Group comprises a portfolio potential for growth within the company, and independent shop owners and “Our customers will not be of leading European brands in the we are happy to hand it over to Lion Capital. they are a true one-stop shop. charged VAT and it is a three needlecrafts space, including DMC, Wool “Thanks to its unparalleled industry contacts Checker’s website has tools business day transit from and the Gang (“WATG”) and Sirdar. and expertise, we believe Lion will successfully so that you can check stock Checker to their store. The The portfolio also includes Tilsatec, add to the business’s strong existing foundations. availability, top-selling, status of shipments are completely VAT a leading brand of high-performance For BlueGem, the sale of The DMC Group is the back orders, review old invoices Free. VAT Funds will not be technical yarn. BlueGem formed The DMC first exit from our Fund II’s portfolio and generated and more. They even offer online collected at time of delivery and Group in August 2016 as a consolidation a Cash-on-Cash of 2.7x and an IRR of 55 per cent.” chat and their international the shipments are trackable platform for complementary needlecraft James Cocker, Partner of Lion Capital, customer service team are from when they leave Checker brands, beginning with the simultaneous added: “We have followed The DMC Group always available by email. until FedEx delivers to their door. acquisition of DMC and WATG. closely for some time and admire the value Their top-selling brands Our unparalleled selection of BlueGem identified in DMC an unloved creation strategy that the team has implemented are the ‘must have’ notions quilting products is now very and undermanaged company with amazing under BlueGem’s ownership. The business and fabrics that quilters use. affordable and fast to the EU. brand heritage, high-quality products and has a wide array of levers to drive continued They have over 1,000 vendors “We are family owned untapped growth opportunities. The addition operational improvement over an extended including very popular brands and just real people helping of WATG was instrumental to the launch of period, and substantial opportunity for further such as OmniGrid, Olfa, The independent shop owners to an intensive rejuvenation program which acquisition-led growth on a global basis. Gypsy Quilter, and Clover be successful. Our incredible included product innovation, marketing, “Our proven track record of working with notions; Hobbs and Bosal selection and the customer PR and social media and e-commerce. leading global brands makes The DMC Group a batting; Aurifil and Mettler experience through our website In 2017, the acquisition of Sirdar and the perfect fit with our investment strategy, and we thread; Wilmington Prints, and customer service reps, plus opening of a London head office solidified The look forward to working with the team to help Henry Glass, Michael Miller the new consolidated shipping DMC Group’s position as the European leader capitalise on the business’s tremendous potential.” and many more; Kimberbell program to the EU can’t be in the needlecrafts space, led by blue-chip top Justin Wraight, CEO of The DMC Group, and Elizabeth Hartman beat. Try us you’ll be hooked!” managers. In 2018, The DMC Group generated said: “BlueGem have been highly supportive patterns; and Martingale and A new customer can open over €90m of sales across 100 plus countries. partners in the formation and development of It’s Sew Emma books. an account by contacting Marco Capello, Founder and Managing The DMC Group. From these strong foundations Brad Krieger, Checker a Customer Service Partner of BlueGem, said: “We are proud we look forward to the next phase of growth Distributors President, Representative Monday - Friday, of the rapid and significant business with Lion Capital, who share our excitement for said: “We are very excited 8am-5pm EST, via phone 001- improvements that have been achieved the future and have the experience to help us to offer a shipping solution 419-893-3636, online chat at at The DMC Group, where we partnered continue to grow and optimise our portfolio of to our existing and future www.checkerdist.com, or email with a high calibre management team. iconic needlecraft and technical yarn brands.” customers in the EU. Their [email protected].

www.craftbusiness.com 4 NEWS

The Hedgehog Hollow named America’s Best Online Retailer

❚ Alexandra Stapleton-Smith started a little hobby blog, The Hedgehog Hollow, to keep her busy when her family moved to America from England in 2016. Since then, it has exploded into a crafting empire. “This has been a whirlwind,” she said. “I can’t believe I’m already living the 12 Get set for American dream.” Stationery Show London The Association for Creative Industries (AFCI) recognized All you need to know about what’s The Hedgehog Hollow with a major award, Best Online Retailer in going on the United States. According to AFCI: “The AFCI Industry Awards recognize CRAFTER’S COMPANION individuals within the industry that have done great things for the APPOINT NEW HEAD OF community, industry and humanity.” Originally, Alexandra used her mobile phone to shoot DIY, paper COMMERCIAL crafting and home decor tutorial videos. She taught fans how to ❚ scrapbook, make cards and work with mixed media. She later added Following another year of an online store, and now serves as a go-to content creation provider expansion for the Newton for crafters. Aycliffe-based craft company, This isn’t Alexandra’s first major industry award. She also won the Crafter’s Companion has highly coveted Young Business Person of the Year award at the 2018 appointed Ross Brown Craft Industry Awards. (pictured) as its new Head of 17 What went on in Birmingham? One reason Hedgehog Hollow thrives is because Alexandra Commercial to help drive its Find out all that happened at CHSI believes in collaboration over competition. She noticed large continued commercial success. Stitches 2019 companies sending monthly subscription boxes to crafters. Crafter’s Companion saw Small businesses couldn’t handle the expense or logistics of a sales growth of 38 per cent subscription boxes. So, she found a solution. She facilitates a over 2018, with an export monthly craft box program using products from many different sales growth of 59 per cent. crafters. With its global employee Alexandra said: “It’s really important to us. A lot of these brands count now standing at 180 are run by moms like me. They just need a little support to reach strong, the award-winning craft their goals.” supplies company is primed to Her corporate background was especially helpful. Before moving continue leading the craft market to the US, she worked as Global Business Development Manager for with this new appointment. Jaguar Land Rover. Crafter’s Companion founder, 30 Infinite possibilities Alexandra added: “It has been a thrill to combine my business Sara Davies MBE, said: “I have in a 3D world skills and my passion for crafts into a career that allows me to focus known and worked with Ross Luisa De Santi talks about her life and on both my family and my professional goals.” for a number of years now, her Magical Crochet Spells exhibition so I know he is the perfect fit Alexandra for our company’s ethos. Stapleton-Smith “His ideas and understanding accepts her that we place the consumer AFCI Award at at the heart of our business, Creativation as well as his vast range of experience in the craft sector, means that he is well placed to share our company’s vision. I’m thrilled that he will be joining the company and helping us to 32 A quick chat continue our growth strategy.” Five Minutes With.... Alice Synge Ross will be relocating from Backstitch to Durham for this role, and In this issue will bring a strong knowledge of the UK craft market and years of experience in the TV shopping and e-commerce sectors from roles at Ideal World, Bid-Up TV and Hochanda. Sara Davies launches design His key achievements include helping to launch Hochanda TV and establishing it as a major TV collaboration with Riley Blake Designs player with a profitable status within the space of three years. ❚ Crafter’s Companion Tote kit and an Around the fabrics with some impressive Ross said: “I am extremely founder, Sara Davies MBE, is World with Sara Quilt kit. partners throughout the excited to be offered the partnering with Riley Blake Riley Blake designs years, so I am both honoured opportunity to join Crafter’s Designs for a series of fabric is a family-owned fabric and thrilled that I am able Companion. Having worked and pattern design manufacturer based in Alpine, to be a part of such a indirectly with a number of the collaborations. Utah. The company, which fantastic collaboration. team, it is a privilege to now be The first range, Sew Retro has just celebrated its tenth “The Sew Retro range is directly part of such a dynamic by Sara Davies, will launch anniversary, was created to a modern twist on my love of and successful company. this summer. It includes more provide high-quality fabrics retro florals and geometric “It is clear that Crafter’s than 30 different fabrics, made to inspire and delight quilters, patterns. What we have created Companion cares about the from 100 per cent cotton, sewists and makers. is a versatile collection of pretty, crafting community and helps incorporating colourful floral, The company has fun, statement prints and I’m to drive industry innovation and dotted, geometric and wave partnered with local and really excited to share our first standards forward in such a designs, together with block international artists to design collection with everyone.” positive direction, something I’m colour fabrics in retro greens, fabric lines with a vintage Cindy Cloward, Creative looking forward to being a part of. beige, navy and pinks. feel. Its materials reflect Director and Owner at Riley “My priority is to lead by The Sew Retro range is a contemporary feel for Blake Designs, added: “Riley example and to invest my time available in 42-piece 5-inch colour, resulting in versatile Blake Designs is thrilled and knowledge to develop and stackers, 42-piece 10-inch fabrics for quilting apparel, to partner with Sara and support the whole team. My main stackers, 40-piece Rolie crafting or home décor. Crafter’s Companion. We’ve aim is to ensure we continue Polies, fat quarters and Sara Davies MBE, founder long admired her creativity to drive the global company in bolts. Customers can at Crafter’s Companion, said: and we’re excited to launch forward, and I look forward to also purchase a Sara Star “Riley Blake Designs has her first collection, Sew working with Sara, Simon and the Pillow Kit, Sara’s Shopper produced some wonderful Retro this Summer.” board to increase the success of Crafter’s Companion.”

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 5

Creative Impulse Award 2019: The best innovations in the sector celebrated z The Creative Impulse Award 2019 was held once again at Creativeworld. The prizes were awarded TRIED & TESTED for the 14th time to the best innovations of the year. The DIY sector is constantly GET IT RIGHT FIRST TIME on the move: it captivates Suitable for all us again and again with new users, whether a trends and vibrant ideas, and beginner, it embraces a huge number of amateur or innovative products. This is also professional, demonstrated every year by the Tracedown is the submissions for the Creative must have artist’s Impulse Award, which Messe and jury member, said: “Yet careful consideration to all the tool. Frankfurt awards in cooperation again, a large number of submissions. For a day, the Tracedown easily with publishers bit-Verlag. outstanding products, tools, jurors looked at everything in transfers designs, The innovation award is the kits and books were submitted great detail, trying things out and images, prints or most important award in the this year by German and assessing them conscientiously. photos with ease sector and it provides guidance overseas companies.” In so doing, they brought to in no time at all, to experts when it comes to At the beginning of January, bear their experiences in retail, it is a wax free new products and trends. a top-ranking adjudicating panel business and consumer needs, as transfer paper Michael Reichhold, of sector experts from retail, well as their own manual skills in a that has been Creativeworld Director, Messe industry and the media met wide range of creative techniques. created for Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH in Frankfurt am Main to give Reichhold. Aline Niedrich, general and Seller Growth Specialist at Etsy specialised use. Germany GmbH, said: “There was Transfer from a everything there: from minutely sketch, pattern, detailed tools, to environmentally template or STOCK SHOT sustainable art and handicraft free-hand to most materials, ingenious kits and surfaces detailed creative books – and including paper, canvas, board, wood, ceramic, fabric, with such a wealth of ideas, the Folk Embroidered metal and much more… it gives clean and crisp lines and decision was anything but easy.” it can easily be erased, also reused. Tracedown allows the The winners in the categories user to experiment with difficult perspectives and get it Felt Birds by Corinne of ‘Creative Product of the right first time! Year’, ‘Creative Tool of the Year’, www.artcoe.co.uk ‘Creative Kit of the Year’ and Lapierre [email protected] ‘Creative Book of the Year’ 0845 3007750 z Popular and were formally announced in bestselling author the Creativeworld Forum. Corinne Lapierre is back CORRINE BRADD, CRAFT DESIGNER, SAID: “Whatever your with a brand-new book z THE 2019 craft there will always be a time when you need to copy on how to make folk WINNERS WERE: or trace something onto your work surface. Whether it’s embroidered felt birds. z Creative Product of the Year a curve for wood and leather working, lettering for Corinne has created 1st: myboshi ‘myboshi foiled calligraphy, basic positioning lines for painting or 20 gorgeous birds to favourite colours’ an intricate design for embroidery you need a transfer make using felt and 2nd: D.T.M. Loisirs method that works for opaque materials and doesn’t folk-inspired créatifs ‘PATAGOM’ rely on light shining through. Frisk Tracedown is a wax embellishment, including 3rd: Miled Ben Dhiaf, free sheet that comes in a variety of colours to suit your a flamboyant peacock, a LOGO-BETON ‘Kneadable surface and is easily erasable from hard surfaces and vibrant flamingo and an Concrete Evolution’ elegant, fairytale swan. fabric. “It works by sandwiching the sheet between your Full-size templates z Creative Tool of the Year project and your original design and lightly taping the for all the birds are included, and there are easy, step-by-step 1st: Dremel ‘Dremel Stylo+’ layers in place. Use a stylus/pen/knitting needle to trace instructions for sewing the birds, filling them with toy stuffing 2nd: Rayher ‘Casting Moulds over the lines of your image, applying more pressure for and decorating them with embroidery. Create legs for the birds for Tiles & Relief Modelling’ a darker line. The coating makes a smudge free transfer or add a ribbon hanger and transform the creations into 3rd: Heindesign ‘Stamp Corner’ colourful, quirky adornments for the home. The book features onto the working surface and the sheet can be used over and over again with little diminishing of the quality of pretty, hand-drawn illustrations throughout and gorgeous z Creative Kit of the Year line it produces. Due to being grease and wax free there photographs, including all the embroidery stitches used in the 1st: Marabu ‘Soft Linol is no issue with paint, ink or enamel ‘slipping’ off the book. Textil Print & Colouring’ line, ensuring a perfect finish to your artwork.” Corinne Lapierre developed a passion for crafts and textiles 2nd: frechverlag ‘Handlettering from a very young age, and has always had an avid desire to Advent Calendar’ learn about traditional techniques such as weaving, dyeing, silk 3rd: PW International ‘Punch painting and embroidery. Needle Set: Abstract’ Dominic Fleming, Head She studied Fine Art in France before moving to the UK to of Sales & Operations, study Fashion Design in Manchester. After working as a fashion z Creative Book of the Year ICHF Events designer for a few years, Corinne studied millinery, through 1st: Kremer Pigmente ‘Kremer Mark Hayhurst, Editor, Craft which she discovered felt and its many qualities. Pigments Recipe Book’ Business Magazine In 2009 Corinne started her own craft business as a felt 2nd: frechverlag ‘Acrylic Pouring’ Martina Lammel, maker and quickly realised there was a demand for craft kits 3rd: efco creative ‘Book Designer and author using good quality, natural materials. Her company, based in an Series: Sweet Packaging’ Aline Niedrich, Seller old Baptist school in Leeds, sells an expanding range of craft Growth Specialist at etsy kits and patterns designed for adults and children. Corinne z The Creative Impulse Peter Nowotny, Executive makes regular appearances on Create & Craft TV and lives in Award expert jury 2019: Board, Art Creativ Yorkshire with her three children and two cats. Silke Bosbach, Atelier Michael Reichhold, Director of [email protected] Silke Bosbach Creativeworld, Messe Frankfurt 01892 510850 Dörte Brilling, HANDMADE Craig de Souza, Executive Kultur Verlag Director, AFCI.UK

www.craftbusiness.com 6 NEWS

STOCK SHOT PONY FLAIR

z Carefully developed with dedication to quality these lightweight Pony Flair needle beauties are made from sustainable precious Maple wood with no added chemicals. Created with vegetable colours and hand applied individually, each Pony Flair needle is silky to the touch and Royal School of Needlework reunites with the Overlord Embroidery provides a wonderfully soothing knitting experience. z The Royal School Needlework and took five years The new collaboration Patented Pony Glydon joint … feel the difference. of Needlework (RSN) to complete, with the final panel will see the Royal School of The outstanding quality of the patented Glydon joint makes has announced its new finished in January 1974. Needlework teach a series of PONY unique in providing uncompromising comfort and collaboration with The D-Day The embroidery consists classes at The D-Day Story excellent performance. Engineered from top grade solid brass, Story in Portsmouth. of 34 panels, each eight feet museum in Portsmouth inspired the precision screw thread mechanism connects shank and The D-Day Story is the only long and three feet high. It is by the ‘Overlord Embroidery’. cable with an easy twist to form a tight and ultra-smooth joint. museum in the UK dedicated to 41 feet longer than the 11th The classes will run on March Yarn glides effortlessly stitch after stitch. the allied landings of Normandy century Bayeux Tapestry and 22 (Appliqué), May 24 (Blackwork) The dream combination for almost every knitting project, in June 1944 - codenamed in many ways the Overlord is and July 5 (Goldwork). Each class the FLAIR interchangeable circular needles are beautifully ‘Operation Overlord’, and features its modern day counterpart. costs £84 (plus a kit cost of £25) presented in an on-trend soft felt case with neat stylish interior the unique 272 feet ‘Overlord More than 50 different and runs from 10.45am – 4.45pm. compartments. Case includes five pairs of Flair needles and Embroidery’ which was stitched materials were used in the To book your place, three cables in three lengths: 60, 80 and 100 cm. by the Royal School ‘Overlord Embroidery’ and visit royal-needlework.org. Two brass knobs are also included and one brass connector of Needlework. although it was created over uk or call 020 3166 6932. provides extra length whenever it’s needed. The ‘Overlord Embroidery’ 25 years after the actual The Royal School of Available from Groves tells the story of D-Day and events, the RSN sourced Needlework also collaborates 0800 626152 NOVITA mini page_ADS 05/03/2019 09:44 Page 1 the Battle of Normandy. It was fabrics from the uniforms of with the V&A and Fashion & [email protected] created by a team of 20 specialist that time to match the design Textile museums in London and www.grovesltd.co.uk stitchers at the Royal School of as closely as possible. the Fashion Museum Bath.

COME AND VISIT US IN COLOGNE 29.–31.3.2019 AT H+H HALL 2.2 STAND A19

CRAFT PLASTIC LINE EXPANDS

z Grafix have expanded their Craft Plastic line. Grafix’s Craft Plastic Film crystal clear products have been a staple craft surface for a variety of craft projects. Now offered in additional clear thicknesses, new Opaque White, Frosted Food Safe, Laser Cuttable Translucent Blue, and Frosted. The new films will be available for purchase from March. Grafix’s Craft Plastic Film are blank craft surfaces which provide unlimited creative possibilities. Cut your own designs with ease using decorative scissors, craft knives, and many die cutting machines. Use as a flat or 3D embellishment and decorate with a range of mediums. Even use Craft Plastic as a stencil! Available in packs of four or 25 sheets. Visit Grafix’s project page and learn how to create some new Craft Plastic Film projects that our artists love to make with these versatile materials. For over 50 years, Grafix has been the leader in providing quality plastic films to the art, craft, graphics, drafting and design communities. Over time the uses of these films have changed, but Grafix’s commitment to deliver their customers with the information and materials they need remains as strong as ever Grafix continues to offer new and innovative uses for their standard plastic Nordic Yarns and Design since 1928 films, as well as the creation of new products to serve their customers’ needs. www.grafixarts.com

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 7

New World Scrapbooking STOCK SHOT Champions take their titles Get inspired by Novita’s z The winners of the World Fourth place went to Italy’s New Nordic Magic Scrapbooking Championships, Cristina Moriggi, followed by organised by the Academy of Claudia Guilhas, from South Scrapbooking and Arts, have Africa, Sandra Erdmann Established in 1928, Novita is a Finnish been revealed. (Germany), Cathryn Ledger The first World Scrapbooking (Canada), Christina Sedor family business that is nowadays the champions come from India and (Canada), Candida Lorusso (Italy) from Germany. and Einav Mordechay Noam largest manufacturer of hand knitting The winner of the Creative Art (Israel). title category’s Pro Division was As World Champion in the yarns in the Nordic countries Apexa Nagar (pictured top right), Hobbyist Division, Olga Kolov had from India, and in the Hobbyist the chance to compete against z When the traditional meets the modern we call it the “New Division it was Germany’s Olga the Pros, taking an excellent scrapper, Monica Shukla, with her Nordic”. We have delved into our archives to bring back some of Kolov (below) that claimed the fourth place. project “Treasured memories” Novita’s classic patterns but with a fresh new look to suit both prize. Apexa Nagar, the professional (mixed media). She beat third contemporary and modern styles. Kolov won the title with her Indian scrapper, overcame her placed Rikki Graziani, from Our designers have pulled some of our favorite gems from work “Moment of Life”, using the opponents with the project “The Australia (“Christmas” clean & our heritage patterns and colour combinations and given them Mixed Media technique. The only key to Success” (mixed simple), by a small margin. now a new lease of life. The result, a beautiful encounter judges were impressed by Olga’s media). As already mentioned, Olga between traditional and modern Nordic design. technique and the harmony of her According to the judges, her Kolov was fourth, followed by Novita’s designs, yarns and colour range are inspired by the project. work exceeded all the others in Karla Zara Ramirez Montenegro, magic of Northern nature – the peacefulness, the never-ending In second place was the criteria of presentation, from Peru, Monika Sadowska space and the quietness. The inspiration for the colours comes Katarzyna Ewa Blakala, from Great technique, creativity and harmony. (Poland), Sandra Dry (UK) and Erin from Northern nature. Each colour has been named after Britain (“With all my heart” - mixed The jury was chaired by Elena Short (USA). elements of the nature, such as forests, berries, lakes and wild media), followed by Brazilian Consonni, Creative Director of the In addition to their trophy, the animals. Luciana Fatima Warnowski Academy, and made up by two new World Champions will (“Love” - mixed media). Alexandra Stapleton-Smith (USA/ receive a personalised UK), Nuria Cuixart Mestres (Spain) handcrafted hat from Busto and and Barbara Schiassi Sun. “Barbarayaya” (Italy). All the finalists will receive the The jury revealed it was much medal and the official apron of the harder to award the winning competition and products from positions in the Pro Division due their sponsors. to the extremely high level and The Academy is already quality of the submitted projects. working on the second edition In the end, the second place and will soon reveal new titles that was won by another Indian will be up for grabs. National Stationery Week opens z NOVITA 7 VELJESTÄ (7 Brothers) is a classic yarn that is door to first retail partner more than 45 years old. It is named after the novel Seitsemän veljestä (Seven Brothers), written in 1870 by famous Finnish z With over 200 outlets nationwide, “Ryman is an important British High author Aleksis Kivi. The book is a staple of Finnish literature, and Ryman has confirmed their commitment Street retailer and a destination for it was the first major novel written in Finnish. The novel depicts to this year’s National Stationery Week by stationery essentials. We can’t wait to the life of seven orphaned young men Juhani, Tuomas, Aapo, becoming the first retailer to endorse its see what exciting plans they have to get Simeoni, Timo, Lauri and Eero. Seitsemän veljestä is an partnership with the annual campaign. consumers into stores and celebrating adventure story where the wild brothers rebel against the rules. Boasting over 120 years’ worth of knowledge their favourite pieces of stationery.” Some of the distinguishing characteristics Kivi portrayed in the in the stationery world, Ryman’s expert product As part of Ryman’s commitment to National brothers are typical of Finns today. insight and variation of internationally recognised Stationery Week, the retailer will put its name The Novita 7 Veljestä yarn was created when our customers product will bring a new dimension to the 2019 to one of the seven days of stationery - with requested a somewhat thicker ARAN yarn to complement the campaign, which runs across April 29 - May 5. plans for their chosen day unveiled shortly. popular Novita DK Nalle yarn. At first, the yarn came in seven The brand was officially launched back In addition, in-store events, competitions neutral colours, each named after one of the brothers in the in 1983, with a single store opening in Great and an outpouring of stationery love across novel. The current contemporary 24 Portland Street, London, before quickly social media are guaranteed to play a part in colours are presented at h+h. expanding with a carefully curated product how Ryman will catch the consumer’s eye. offering for offices, students and creatives. It If you are a retailer or a brand who would z MOOMIN x NOVITA celebrated 125 years of business last year. also like to get behind this year’s campaign, In 2019 Novita has launched a long- Vanessa Fortnam, head of content there is still time to become a partner. awaited, delightful yarn collection and PR for National Stationery Week, said: If you are keen to find out more, please inspired by the world of Moomins. “We are thrilled to have Ryman as the first contact Vanessa on vanessa.fortnam@ To inspire people knitting with retailer on board for this year’s campaign. stationeryshow.co.uk or calling 01666 824624. the Moomin x Novita yarns Moominous knitting patterns have been created. Three unique Moomin x Novita patternbooks are being published during 2019. The colours of the Moomin x Novita yarns are inspired by Tove Jansson’s classic Moomin books. Come and feel the delightful Moomin x Novita DK yarn Collection. Tove Jansson (1914-2001) was a Finnish-Swedish writer and artist, who achieved worldwide fame as the creator of the stories about the Moomins. The Moomin family and their friends live an adventurous life in the idyllic and peaceful Moominvalley in harmony with nature. They are a family of white and roundish trolls with large snouts. Visit us at: www.novitaknits.com h+h Halle 2.2 Stand A19

www.craftbusiness.com 8 CRAFT BUSINESS AWARDS 2019

Craft BUSINESS AWARDS 2019

The best in the industry are celebrated by the Craft Business Awards 2019 Ceremony rewards another great year for the industry z All the best and brightest in the “The enthusiasm I encounter Barker, Interior Designer and craft industry were celebrated at from every corner of crafts is Television Presenter, Anthea a special ceremony at the NEC. seemingly boundless, so it’s Turner, Television Presenter The Craft Business been with great pleasure that and Former-Blue Peter Awards 2019 were presented I’ve been able to recognise Presenter, Caroline Blunden - at CHSI Stitches, the UK’s some of this drive and devotion Buyer for Children’s Products trade show for the creative by overseeing the 14th annual at Hobbycraft, and Debbie craft industry, in Birmingham, Craft Business Awards.” Bliss - Knitwear Designer. on Monday, February 18. The 2019 incarnation has The big winners in The Awards, organised by seen the addition of the Elite these categories were Rico Craft Business magazine, are the Industry categories. These new Ricorumi, Lalylala’s Beetles, biggest and most well-respected awards, which included Best Bugs and Butterflies By in the crafting industry, celebrating Emerging Craft Band, Best Lydia Tresselt, Origami everyone from small start ups to Children’s Product, Best Craft Dinosaurs By Lucy Bowman the giants of papercraft, knitting, Book and Best New Product, and Hawthorn Handmade. stitching, haberdashery, beading, were judged by a star-studded The remaining categories jewellery and creative stationery. panel of industry experts. were thrown open to the “From the smallest craft shop Mark Hayhurst, Craft The judges included Dr readers of Craft Business and Business editor said: “I am hugely Susan Kay Williams - Chief thousands of votes were cast. right the way up to the biggest impressed and inspired by this Executive of the Royal School Best British Brand, Best industry. From the smallest craft of Needlework, Sarah Hamilton European Brand and Craft chain store, this sector is shop right the way up to the - Founder of Just a Card, Influencer of the Year were just biggest chain store, this sector Haldi Kranich-Wood - Product some of the categories that driven by one thing: passion” is driven by one thing: passion. Manager for British Wool, Linda saw neck and neck voting. MARK HAYHURST – EDITOR CRAFT BUSINESS CRAFT BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 z Best Support & Service z Best European Brand z Best Knitting Manufacturer/ z Best Beading & z Best Creative Winner: West Yorkshire W: Rico Design Supplier/Distributor Jewellery Manufacturer/ Stationery Manufacturer/ Spinners C: Sakura/Royal Talens W: West Yorkshire Spinners Supplier/Distributor Supplier/Distributor Commended: Groves C: Prym C: Rico Design W: Creative Beadcraft Ltd W: Rico Design Commended: Peak C: Cygnet Yarns Ltd C: Wholesale Beads C: Sakura/Royal Talens Dale Products z Best American Brand C: Beadalon C: Personal Impressions W: Lion Brand Yarn z Best Chain Craft Shop Company z Best Papercraft z Best Social Media W: Hobbycraft C: ImpressArt Manufacturer/ W: Stylecraft Yarns C: The Range C: StyleTechCraft Supplier/Distributor C: Hunkydory C: Crafter’s Companion W: Hunkydory C: Trimcraft z Craft Influencer C: Craft Consortium Ltd z Best E-tailer of the Year C: Claritystamp Ltd z Best Trade Website W: Deramores Retail Limited W: Debbie Shore W: Craft Consortium C: Hunkydory Crafts C: The Crafty Gentleman z Best Stitching C: Groves C: Claritystamp Ltd C: Barbara Gray & Haberdashery C: West Design Products Manufacturer/ z Best British Brand z Best Craft Book Publisher Supplier/Distributor z Best Independent Retailer W: West Yorkshire Spinners W: Search Press W: SewandSo W: Amelia’s Creative Craft C: Hunkydory Crafts C: Pavilion C: Prym C: Really Maria C: Lavinia Stamps C: Abrams Books C: Groves C: CJ Beaders

www.craftbusiness.com CRAFT BUSINESS AWARDS 2019 9

Craft Business Awards 2019 Elite Industry Winners Craft BUSINESS ELITE INDUSTRY AWARDS 2019

z LINDA BARKER ON RICO z Best Emerging Craft Band RICORUMI Winner: Hawthorn Handmade “Who could fail to fall in Commended: Wool love with the World of Couture Company Ricorumi? It is a beautiful and modern craft kit z Best Children’s Product that was an absolute Winner: Usborne - Origami joy to open. I loved the Dinosaurs By Lucy Bowman accessories packs too Commended: Pixelhobby that enabled the crochet UK XL Unicorn Kit beginner to access the craft immediately. Every z Best Craft Book part of the product was a Winner: FW Media - Lalylala’s tantalising glimpse into a Beetles, Bugs and Butterflies seemingly private world By Lydia Tresselt that you’d been invited into. Commended: Search Press I couldn’t wait to make my - The Build a Bag Book: Tote first crochet character (a Bags By Debbie Shore skeleton btw). The coloured yarns were beautiful to z Best New Product use, the pattern booklets Winner: Rico Ricorumi were bang on trend, easy Commended: Prym to follow and I couldn’t wait Crochet Hooks to dive in and have a go.”

z DEBBIE BLISS ON RICO RICORUMI “The sorbet pastel shades are delicious and I am always a credit Alison Webster sucker for a 25g ball. The yarn is a soft cotton and comes with beautifully produced booklets.”

z SARAH HAMILTON ON z CAROLINE BLUNDEN HAWTHORN HANDMADE ON ORIGAMI “What a joy Hawthorn Handmade DINOSAURS BY z ANTHEA TURNER craft kits are. They combine perfectly LUCY BOWMAN the craft of making with a beautifully ON BEETLES BUGS “The instructions were AND BUTTERFLIES designed end product. It’s a pleasure relatively easy to follow, the to see the business growing so rapidly, BY LYDIA TRESSELT paper was of great quality, the “Pardon the pun but I and well deserved. They’ve thought of overall look and feel of the was hooked from the everything - easy to follow instructions, book was enticing (so much moment I opened this conscientious attention to supporting so that my Niece made every beautifully crafted book. other sustainable businesses, and a dinosaur). Adult help was The first 25 pages are well executed marketing and promotion needed initially to understand dedicated to the delightful story plan. Couple this with such beautifully how to follow the instructions of a little crochet caterpillar designed end products and it’s no as on first appearance they were who turns into guess what? A surprise that customers love these kits. a bit complex. However, the glorious Red Admiral butterfly Congratulations on a great business.” detailed pictures and instructions with the remainder of the book made it easy to complete.” showing how you can bring even more life to the story by making the creatures yourself. “Everything about this book is enchanting from the wool z HALDI KRANICH-WOOD ON WOOL COUTURE COMPANY interpretation of the characters “It is truly amazing to see new business emerging with a mission to make to the clearly presented traditional craft approachable to new generations. Wool Couture create exiting, instructions. If you have never vibrant wool products that just draw you in for a touch and feel and invite you picked up a crocheting hook to experiment with it. With a passion to keep creating products that invite you don’t worry Lydia has got to an old favourite craft or introduce you to a totally new one. We wish all the you, and if you are proficient success to the Wool Couture team, we know they are only getting started.” you’ll enjoy her world.”

www.craftbusiness.com 10 ADVERTISEMENT

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www.craftbusiness.com ADVERTISEMENT 11 Get into the shade Caran d’Ache’s new range is designed to appeal to everyone

z Caran d’Ache reinforced its to explore all kinds of water- Aquarelle range to give your Graphite Line range with three based techniques. RRP £21.50 drawings or sketches more depth new products that introduce For a wider range, the and is ideal for colour washes. some colour into the shades Graphite Line Multi-Techniques A selection of accessories to of black. The Technalo RGB Water-Soluble Set contains help you get the most out of and Grafcube RGB take their a total of 13 artistic tools and your graphite products includes name from the Red, Green and accessories from the drawing a large water brush, eraser and Blue colour coding system. and sketching ranges in a large sharpener. Use these drawing Whether you’re an amateur metal box. The set contains two and sketching tools combined or professional artist, art student, black graphite pencils from the to explore all the nuances of the graphic designer or illustrator, this Caran d’Ache Technalo Water graphite medium. RRP £47.50. new range could be for you. As a Soluble Pencil range, 6B and a The Graphite Line Multi- dry pencil or cube they retain the 3B, three Technalo RGB pencils, Techniques Sketching Set original properties of graphite. a set of RGB 10mm Grafcube contains 11 artistic tools When used with water, the sticks with subtle red, green including 4 Grafwood pencils black is showing subtle shades and blue hue. Also included are of 9B, 6B, 2B and HB, a 6B of carmine lacquer (575), dark two colour pencils, yellow ochre Grafstone graphite pencil and 2 phthalo green (719) or Prussian and russet, from the Museum Grafcubes at 15mm of 9B and blue (159), giving it unique 6B. The set also includes representations of colour. a soft charcoal pencil. A The Graphite Line selection of accessories Technalo Set contains six are included in the set that pencils from the Technalo will help you get the most TRIED & TESTED water-soluble pencil range, out of your sketching and a waterbrush and a metal drawing. Included in the box for storage. There are set are a paper blending three black Technalo water- stump, kneadable eraser, a JAKAR ROTATING CUTTING soluble graphite pencils, single hole pencil sharpener MAT, FOLDING CUTTING MAT including 6B, 3B and B and a metal box in which as well as the Technalo to store your pencils and AND KNIFE water-soluble red, green accessories. Use all these A4 FOLDING CUTTING MAT BLUE and blue pencil in a handy tools in combination to get (SELF-HEALING) AND CRAFT KNIFE SET WITH metal storage box. The the most out of all shades of black graphite. RRP £42.99. SIX ASSORTED BLADES PERSONAL IMPRESSIONS 1.4 3 col_ADS 24/01/2019set also includes14:55 Page a Caran 1 Ideal for crafters and artists, the A4 blue d’Ache waterbrush with cutting mat for small projects at work or a large tip. Its reservoir z Contact details home is small enough to store in an art can hold up to 20ml of 020 8381 7000 box or bag. Unfolded, the mat is 300 x water and can be used [email protected] 220mm and 220 x 105mm when folded. The graphics are laid out in 1cm squares over a 20 x 28cm grid. Strong fibrous binding material prevents splitting and the small folds do not affect the cutting. The soft grip handle craft knife is supplied with six assorted, different shape blades. RRP £9.99 Leading MULTI-FUNCTION 360° ROTATING CUTTING MAT BLUE No more turning your project when using the 360° blue Craft and cutting mat. Easy to use, convenient for special cuts and simplifies multiple cuts. Ideal for decorating clay and Papercraft pottery but also a must have for paper crafting and Supplier, sewing and much more. Protects surfaces from wear and tear, ensures high 30,000+ quality, clean cuts for a variety of materials. The mat products size is 30 x 30cm with 30°, 45° & 60° angle guide lines, 15 & 25cm Ø circle guides and a 1cm square grid. RRP £17.99

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www.craftbusiness.com 12 STATIONERY SHOW LONDON

Stationery Show London

z SHOW ESSENTIALS z Dates: Tuesday & Wednesday, 30 April & 1 May 2019 gets set for 2019 z Venue: Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, London N1 0QH z Opening hours: 9.30am - 5.30pm on All you need to know will be on display at the Business Design Centre Tuesday, 9.30am - 4pm on Wednesday z Register: Free via www.stationeryshowlondon.co.uk for bona fide stationery buyers and retailers. z Stationery Show London The judges are: Sarah Hazel Fieldwick, the regularly attracts the Sibley, founder of online show’s event manager, said: UK’s biggest retailers, stationery retailer Got2Jot; “Stationery is a core product for influential buyers and Michael Owen, co-founder of many retail stores; it fulfils the and Giftware Association deputy high number and quality of the brands in the stationery, distributor Lime Stationery & role of an everyday essential, chairman, Henri Davis, will products being put forward. gift and fashion sectors. Art; Penny Green, director of an ‘on trend’ impulse buy, a undertake the task of judging Hazel said: “We decided our And this year is on target retail & wholesale Europe for stylish and useful gift and, the products at the beginning judges really needed more time to deliver its trademark mix kikki-K, who introduced kikki-K just as importantly, a carefully of April, with finalists being to review the number of entries, of established and brand-new to the UK; Jamie Mitchell, co- chosen personal accessory. announced in the run-up to without being under such a huge paper and writing instrument founder and director at quirky “The product mix at the show, and the winners time pressure, so we’re very suppliers this April when it stationery and gift supplier Ohh Stationery Show London reflects revealed on the first evening of lucky that so many buyers are opens at the Business Design Deer, and Kaushal Shah, founder this broad appeal and offers the show – Tuesday April 30. giving us an extra day of their Centre in Islington, north of Paper Plus Europe. Both visitors a depth of product choice time to come along and take a London, on April 30 - May 1. James and Kaushal were also and knowledge from all corners z WHAT’S NEW FOR look at the entries in early April. The show’s regular identified as ‘Thirty Under 30 of the retail stationery market.” THE SHOW IN 2019 “We’ve also opened up LaunchPad competition will Star Choice’ stationery industry A key part of the visitor offer This move to judge the Supplier the Supplier Awards to all deliver up to 12 new hopefuls winners earlier this year. are the show’s Stationery Awards Stationery Awards before the stationery suppliers to enter, to this year’s event, each having The LaunchPad winners, which last year attracted just over show (in previous years all not just show exhibitors.” already garnered approval from alongside over 50 first-time 400 entries across 12 product Stationery Award entries were In addition, two new this year’s five judges, all of exhibitors and 100 plus categories from exhibitors. Now judged on the first day of the sections have been added whom have either started or show regulars will be keen in their eighth year, a panel of show, and the Awards were to the Stationery Awards helped to launch businesses to make the most of the senior stationery buyers, chaired only open to exhibitors) is a this year – there are five in the stationery industry. audience the show delivers. by independent retail advisor reflection of the consistently new Retailer Categories, and

www.craftbusiness.com STATIONERY SHOW LONDON 13

PRODUCTS ON SHOW STAEDTLER at the London Stationery Show 2019

z Colour and creativity are at the heart z TRENDING NOW of STAEDTLER’s stand at this year’s With pastels still a key trend across many London Stationery Show, with an sectors, STAEDTLER has increased its Pastel unprecedented number of new products Line range of key Back to School stationery items, and range extensions on display. all attractively presented in colour co-ordinated Design Journey is STAEDTLER’s brand packaging. New for 2019 are pastel-themed new collection of premium products for the collections of colouring pencils and pastel packs hobby artist, from sketching pencils through of both triplus and Textsurfer highlighters. to luminous acrylics. Taking inspiration The new Comic Range, designed to from North American national parks for its encourage children to embrace writing and logo and packaging design, Design Journey drawing, combines fun graphics featuring comprises around 30 products in more three comic art-style motifs – Bang, LOL than 60 product variations to motivate and Superheroes – with the brightest beginners to start their design journey and of colours. The visually appealing range to encourage more advanced artists to try includes graphite and colouring pencils, tub a new Designer Category exhibitors that illustrate these new techniques and develop their skills. sharpeners, erasers and geometry sets. sponsored by GO Stationery. trends to create their display. Products include STAEDTLER classics Full details of all the Exhibitors were able to attend a as well as many brand new innovations such z NEW ADDITIONS TO categories, how to enter, closing free trend briefing back in early as woodless pencils, pastel pens, brush THE TRIPLUS FAMILY dates and judges can be found January to find out what Scarlet pens and new colouring and watercolouring STAEDTLER’s popular triplus range of at www.stationeryawards.co.uk. Opus is looking for and ensure pencils. For additional clarity, each pack triangular shaped writing instruments has Despite the changes in their products are considered. design features an authentic application been extended with the addition of triplus judging, visitors can rest assured “The Trends Hub is designed image to communicate the precise permanent, a fineliner with waterproof ink that there is no change to the to help our visitors recognise, properties and usage of the products. available in ten different colours. Also new show’s New Product Showcase. not only which trends will be are ten new colours for the triplus ballpoint This key display will still be sited most relevant to their customers, z FIMO INNOVATION range, bringing the total to 20 for M and XB line at the entrance to the show and but also which they could use Along with a ground breaking new polymer widths. Brand new for 2019 is the F line width feature all the products entered to attract new customers. So, modelling clay to be previewed at the show, option, available in red, green, black and blue. for the Awards for visitors to sharing and explaining the there are also various new FIMO colour packs, Yet again, STAEDTLER has increased review for themselves. All the impact of global trends and new larger pack sizes and FIMO kids ‘funny’ the number of colours available in the triplus finalists will be clearly identified. their effect on our sector is vital kits on display. Designed to foster children’s fineliner range with the introduction of 12 Changes at the show information for our exhibitors creativity and imagination, the ‘funny’ range exciting new shades bringing the total to include the move of the show’s and visitors – it means they comprises eight individual modelling sets an incredible 60. The new colours include ‘Trends Hub’ to centre stage can make key commercial complete with two FIMO blocks and simple inspirational shades such as dove grey, vanilla on the mezzanine level and decisions about new product instructions. Finally, FIMO liquid decorating and mahogany. Completing the triplus additions the creation of a ‘Designer development and purchases gel is now available in gold, silver and black in are three new trend sets, Llama, Watermelon Area’ just next to the New with confidence,” says Hazel. addition to the original transparent option. and Botanical, joining the ‘My Colours’ series Product Showcase display. The display area will of colour-themed sets of six fineliners or six The high level of interest include trend ‘mood boards’ fibre tips, neatly presented in desktop boxes. in the show’s Trends Hub, and the Scarlet Opus team will STAEDTLER (UK) Ltd curated by trend forecasting be on hand to talk to retailers Stand M541 at The London Stationery Show agency Scarlet Opus, and its about how they can interpret www.staedtler.co.uk ‘Trend Tours’ last year, mean the trends and merchandise 0845 600 5930 that more space has been them in their own stores. given to this area this year. The Trends Hub will also be “Visitors will see the New the starting point for ‘Trend Tours’ Product Showcase featuring which were introduced last year. ‘what’s available now’ products Each Trend Tour is a 30 minute as they enter and then find tour of eight-ten products around the Trends Hub, which is the show which Scarlet Opus focused on ‘what’s coming feels sum up the key consumer next’, as they move further trends that will be playing out into the show,” says Hazel. in the stationery market in the The Trends Hub will feature coming months. Visitors can four key global consumer and request their own ‘team tour’, or design trends chosen by the they can simply book a place on Scarlet Opus team, which they a timed tour. Places are limited feel will be particularly relevant to six people on each tour. to the stationery sector. The team will select product from z turn to page 14

www.craftbusiness.com 14 STATIONERY SHOW LONDON

z Continued from page 13 “The product mix at Stationery Show London Clipmatic, Collins Debden, Crafter’s Companion, Daler z LIVE TALKS AND reflects this broad appeal and offers visitors a Rowney, Derwent, DKL, EastWest, WORKSHOPS eco-eco Stationery, Edding, This year’s show will also depth of product choice and knowledge from Envelopes Ltd, ExaClair, Flame include a series of quick Tree Publishing, Fringoo, GBA fire presentations covering all corners of the retail stationery market.” Pen, GO Stationery, Hainenko, ‘The State of Stationery’ Hardie Grant, Indeutsch HAZEL FIELDWICK, EVENT MANAGER from Rebecca Saunders, Industries, Jakar, JPT Europe, an independent retail and Kaisercraft, Kaweco, Laura ecommerce consultant, who Stoddart, Leuchtturm 1917, Lime was previously the Stationery, Satori and Fellowship – they can take the opportunity to get on the show website www. Stationery & Art, LSM, Luxor, Weddings and Christmas are working on for the show. visitors hands-on with their stationeryshowlondon.co.uk Manuscript Pen, Maped Helix, buyer at Notonthehighstreet. In addition, there will be a products and can discover simple Museums & Galleries, Mustard, com; a ‘Review of what’s couple of retailer workshops workshop ideas that they, in turn, z 2019 EXHIBITOR LINE UP Notable Designs, Nuco, OSCO, really happening on the UK’s each day, which will be targeted can run for their customers. Stationery Show London Otima Grafica, Paper Lounge, High Streets’ by leading retail at specific participants and Calligraphy, fun gift- will have over 150 exhibitors Pentel, Peter Pauper Press, Pierre commentator and head of will need to be pre-booked. wrapping ideas and testing representing many more Cardin, Pomegranate, Portico retail policy for the Federation For example, there will be one out the latest inks and pens brands at this year’s show. Designs, Premier Stationery, of Small Business, Michael workshop aimed at independent will all on be on offer. Regulars include A Gift from Pukka Pads, Reliable Source, Weedon, of EXP2 and, of course, retailers to learn what they can A full programme listing the Gods, Allsorted, Amodex, AT Royal Talens, Santoro, Semikolon, presentations from trend pick up from how buyers work. of these free Trend Tours, Live Cross, Bi-silque, Bright Concept, Shachihata, Sinclairs, Stabilo, translator Phil Pond of Scarlet And finally, the Creative Talks, Retail Workshops and BrownTrout, Bruce Douglas, Busy Staedtler, Stewart Superior, Opus on the four key trends – Stationery Workshops are Creative Stationery Workshops B, Castelli, Cathedral Products, Stone Marketing, Strawberry The Traveller, The Gamechanger, back! This is where exhibitors will be published shortly Chameleon Art Products, Design, teNeues Publishing, Live talks and retailer workshops confirmed

Catherine Erdly Ian Retallick Phil Pond Nick Brackenbury Michael Weedon Rebecca Saunders STAEDTLER 1.8 3 col_ADS 06/03/2019 12:54 Page 1 z Visitors to this year’s Trend analyst Phil Pond, of local shoppers searching and offers valuable insight Independent retailers should Stationery Show London of trend forecasting agency online for them nearby. In 2018 for any retailer assessing come prepared to share their will be able to top up their Scarlet Opus, is now a well- NearSt partnered with Google their chances of trading experiences and learn from trends appreciation, hear known face to Stationery to enable shoppers to search successfully on the high street. others – this is a pre-bookable how the stationery sector and Show visitors. He will speak live in-store products directly Rebecca Saunders, a retail workshop with limited places. Britain’s high streets are really twice – once to share a key in the Google search function. and e-commerce independent In addition, there are fairing behind the ‘doom and trend that will play a large CEO Nick Brackenbury says consultant, is also returning to another two retailer workshops, gloom’ headlines favoured role in this year’s Christmas “Retailers are currently missing the line-up to deliver her ‘State one led by Ian Retallick, by the national press and sales called ‘The Traveller’ out on a whole segment of of Stationery’ industry update founder of Specialist Retailers, listen in to an intriguing offer - and secondly, to share a shoppers who want to buy and run a hands-on workshop entitled ‘How soft assets can from retail entrepreneurs longer view of leading global local.” Come and find out entitled ‘What can indies learn attract more customers to NearSt who promise to consumer and design trends how they do it at the show! from retail buyers’. Rebecca, your store’ and another led make retailers stock easily – The Game Changer, Satori ‘What’s really happening (previously a buyer and by retail consultant Catherine searchable on Google! and Fellowship - influencing on the UK’s High Streets’ category manager at Erdly, of Future Retail, called The show’s programme customers throughout is a review by leading retail Not on the High Street and ‘Five key figures you need to of Live Talks and Retailer spring/summer 2020. commentator and head of John Lewis Partners) will know to boost your sales’. Workshops will run on both NearSt is a retail technology retail policy for the Federation work with the group to share To find out more about each days of the show, and full company getting people of Small Business, Michael tips on how retail buyers talk, and what time they will details and timings can be back into high street shops. Weedon, of EXP2, which proves manage stock and suppliers run, please visit the ‘What’s On’ found in the ‘What’s On’ section Their platform drives in-store that you shouldn’t believe all the to help independent retailers section of the Stationery Show on the show website: footfall by connecting the ‘doom and gloom’ headlines! identify what practices and London’s website at www.stationeryshowlondon. products currently hidden on His explanation of the real data expectations they should have www.stationeryshowlondon. co.uk. shop shelves to the millions is thought-provoking, interesting in their own negotiations. co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com STATIONERY SHOW LONDON 15

The Charfleet Book Bindery, Trading, Growing Greeting, Toscana Carte Pregiate, uniball, kikki.K, Rystor Spolka, Securit West Design and Zebra Pen. by Vermes, StorePAK, Tangible The show’s Designer Area Stationery, Tallon, Teloman is delighted to be welcoming Products and VOW Retail. Cambridge Imprint to the show for the first time, along with ARK Colour Design, Brenco, Chiltern Publishing, Code Naturel, Elvria van Vredenburgh, English Graphics, Kartotek Copenhagen, Ola, Paper Mirchi, Petra Boase and The Botanical ABC. New exhibitors this year, or companies returning after a break include: Artcoe, Back Pocket Notebooks, Bookspeed, Coles Pen, COLOP UK, Creativ Company, Diarpell, Etiket Paper, FAbooks, from me to you, Green Elephant

Take a trend tour at Stationery Show London Take a look at the four global consumer and designer trends to focus on in 2019 Victoria Redshaw Laura Greenwood

z Visitors to this year’s Each of the guided tours, “By using products available to attract new customers,” which can be booked outside show will be able to join a which take around 40 minutes now, we can illustrate the types explains Victoria Redshaw. the standard times. ‘Trend Tour’, to be shown to complete, is led either by of ideas, items, colours and There will be four tours on The Scarlet Opus team, who specific products which each futurist Victoria Redshaw or textures of each trend and give each of the two days, every are also creating a stationery epitomise one of the key trend forecaster Laura buyers specific examples of tour will cater for up to eight trends hub display at the consumer and design trends Greenwood, both of how each trend will manifest visitors at a time, and the show, have identified four the stationery sector will trend forecasting agency itself, what their customers team also offers team tours global consumer and design see developing in 2020. Scarlet Opus. will be drawn to and how for individual companies trends to focus on this year:

z THE z SATORI TRAVELLER Next summer’s This will be a Olympics in Japan key trend for will boost worldwide Christmas 2019. It interest in Japanese is a future thinking culture and yet traditional influences. Satori, trend, reflecting or ‘the experience of consumers’ desires seeing into one’s true to optimistically nature’ is a key part look ahead to of this. It encourages a calmer, more consumers to find stable era. The idea a natural rhythm of establishing and balance in fairness, order to cope with transparency in the complexities all things and of modern life and restoring balance the distractions of and order is key. the online world.

z THE GAME z FELLOWSHIP CHANGER This trend promotes the power This is a trend of the collective. It has a global that sees outlook and celebrates cultural consumer interest diversity and placing ethics at the in strengthening centre of decision making. It is the connection experimental, colourful and joyous; between showcasing a cultural mix of ideas. sustainability and technology to achieve z To find out more about these environmental consumer and design trends improvements. and how they will play out in the A desire for Stationery sector, visitors can either clean air, clean join a Trend Tour, visit the Trends oceans, clean Hub or sit in on one of the trends energy and clean talks by the Scarlet Opus team. living will drive To find out more, please visit the how products ‘What’s On’ section of the Stationery and services Show London’s website at are developed. www.stationeryshowlondon.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com ICHF page_ADS 06/03/2019 12:53 Page 1 SHOW NEWS 17

z “Neither West Design nor Docrafts had exhibited at Stitches for a number of years, and after the acquisition in December 2016 we felt we had a story to tell. We were very pleased with our stand location and saw a lot of existing accounts, and also opened up a lot of new accounts. We also took some orders including some of our products that don’t launch until later in the year. Our most popular range at the show was our Simply Make craft kits which retail from £4.99 and launched just before Christmas, with the next launch in July. All in all we were really pleased to Craft Industry comes together be back at CHSI Stitches!” Jo Bray, Managing Director – Sales & Marketing at for flagship trade show West Design Products z “This year’s CHSI show was one of our most Insights, catwalk shows, workshops and business deals all at the NEC Birmingham successful (and we’ve done 28 of them), with the first day breaking all our records z CHSI Stitches 2019 welcomed Dominic Fleming, Head of with a 50 per cent increase thousands of retailers through Events at ICHF, said: “Visitors in sales. It seems cross the doors, connecting them and exhibitors at CHSI Stitches stitch is having a revival (not with leading craft brands and heard incredibly detailed research that it ever went away).” products from across the world. analysis on the craft industry. Roger Hart, Mouseloft The show, which ran from Not only are the statistics vital for 17-19 February at the NEC our industry but the presentation z “This was our third year Birmingham featured exhibition also described how to turn that at CHSI and we had a stands and displays from knowledge into real business great show with a record top industry brands plus live actions to increase profits.” number of orders. It is catwalk shows, workshops and Leading lights from across the best place to meet presentations, including the the industry also took to our target audience with results of the 2019 Craft Report. the stage to share insights a mixture of existing and The show’s Insights Hub including Sarah Cressall, new customers. We always revealed the results of the founder of Creation Station, meet foreign buyers at 2019 Craft Report, which and the teams from Aceville Stitches and this year were presented each day of “The vibrancy of the craft Publications who are behind we had quite a few from the show by independent the hugely successful Yarn northern Europe. We research specialists Linda industry was very clear to Shop Day and Sew Saturday. noticed the show seemed Jones & Partners. Dominic Fleming added: to have more textile-based The Craft Report: The see at this year’s show” “The vibrancy of the craft crafts this time and it was Rise of Consumer Power, industry was very clear to see bursting with creativity and DOMINIC FLEMING – HEAD OF EVENTS AT ICHF completed in January 2019, at this year’s show. Crafting inspiration, as always.” puts consumer needs at the continues to play an increasingly Corinne Lapierre heart of the research aiming knowledgable staff with 93 per Crafts that the report stated relevant role in society. to better understand changing cent of respondents saying it was were on the rise were felting, “The ever-changing retail habits and attitudes. The an important factor, while 37 per quilting and jewellery/beadcraft landscape means experiential independent survey covered cent said it was a top priority. and it also pointed to a new marketing is more vital than a breakdown of the UK craft Also space to browse and sit interest in macrame, weaving, ever: this year’s show focused audience and the popularity was deemed important by 84 per marbling and glasswork. on connecting suppliers and of specific crafts, consumer cent, with 21 per cent saying it retailers to enable the sharing spending, the importance of was a top priority and 40 per cent z THE KEY TAKEAWAY of techniques and skills workshops, online and offline saying it was very important. POINTS FROM THE needed to run workshops and shopping habits, social media Displaying lots of finished REPORT WERE: tutorials, whether instore or influencers and a deeper dive work (online/in-store) was z Keep innovating to keep online. This ultimately improves into specific craft sectors. important to 83 per cent, with crafters engaged the customer experience demos and events at 76 per z Respond to wider and in turn boosts sales.” z KEY CRAFT REPORT cent, contacting customers consumer trends The show also welcomed STATISTICS: with news and offers sat at 76 z Optimise both your online leading craft brands from z 27% of those surveyed per cent, offering refreshments and offline presence around the world, launching started crafting to combat 48 per cent and being active z Build your network of new lines, demonstrating and First-time Bright Sparks illness and stress on social media 43 per cent. followers and influencers taking orders from retailers. exhibitor, Felt Creative, z 66% see craft as good Stix2 used the platform to introduced its range of beautiful, way to relax. launch its new cork sheets, a character-based needle felting z The average monthly versatile product that can be kits to buyers. Carole Martin, spend for crafters is £26 dye cut, punched, painted, inked owner and designer said: “We’ve and stamped and used with all had a great response to the The UK craft audience was put Stix2 adhesives. Ruth Welch, range, establishing new leads, at 14.6 million with a median Sales Director, Stix2 said: “The meeting new customers and age of 50, a strong female bias response to our new cork sheets taking orders. Needle felting of 76 per cent and an average has been great. We’ve been able was highlighted as a growing income of six per cent below the to use the show to demo and craft in this year’s CHSI Stitches national average of £30,455. make projects in workshops Craft Report and the interest The report detailed that which has given our customers we’ve seen reflects that.” what consumers most looked the skills and techniques to CHSI Stitches 2020 takes for in a successful craft show the full potential of the place from February 16-18, shop was enthusiastic and product to their own customers.” at the NEC, Birmingham.

www.craftbusiness.com 18 CREATIVE STATIONERY/PAPERCRAFT

Papercraft Perfection A (paper) cut above the rest

Angela Sara West chats with creative papercraft and stationery influencers, along z From cards and origami, to jewellery and clothing, the with the up-and-coming creators, making their mark through the magic of paper and humble, but oh-so wonderfully versatile, piece of paper putting their stamp on stationery, who should be at the top of your ‘ones-to-watch’ list! is the most widely-used material in arts and crafts. Whether you’re creating using traditional methods, or breaking boundaries and taking the craft to a whole new level, papercraft is more popular than ever, Danilo and set to shine in 2019. And, despite digital technology, z As the number one publisher sales of paper diaries are of licensed calendars, greeting on the up, too, so it seems cards, gift wrap and diaries, stationery’s seeing something Danilo has won numerous of a very welcome resurgence. awards and is recognised as Current trends influencing a market leader and huge their designs? “A renewed influencer in the industry. love for retro brands with a Last year they celebrated a humorous twist, and our official milestone 40 years of producing humour card ranges, such as is a fantastic brand that official calendars and diaries, our Ladybird Books for Grown celebrates what makes us 2019 is set to be the family-run Ups, Enid Blyton Famous Five, different, unique and special Erin Hung - BerinMade company’s most exciting year Action Man and Subbuteo, have and, with a new movie coming z Based in the UK and She first fell to date. “With a whole host of all seen a great response by this August, our upcoming Hong Kong, Erin Hung is in love with innovative formats and new, retailers and consumers alike, card designs will focus on the founder and Creative origami as exciting licenses, we have so this year we are launching using vibrant and uplifting Director of multi-award a school plenty to choose from,” reveals a comical new range for Sindy, captions and patterns.” winning stationery design girl and Dan Grant, Licensing Director, the best-selling toy in late ‘60s Danilo is also celebrated studio, BerinMade. holds a Fine Danilo. “Calendar-wise, we have and ‘70s, which recently featured for it’s celebrity soundcards. Headquartered in London, Art Degree some creative formats, such in the Thelma and Louise-style “We’ve launched a brand the bespoke stationery from the as the Magic Cube Calendar Money Supermarket TV ad.” new Little Mix sound card, and paper goods company University of with Augmented Reality, the Dan’s also spotted the featuring a special recorded specialises in greeting cards the Arts London, as well as a Deluxe Calendar, the Change- uplift in the encouragement message from Perrie, Jesy, and lifestyle stationery Masters in Contemporary Art. It-Up Calendar and the Gift Box of positive mental health and Jade and Leigh-Anne. We’ve that is functional, feminine The company offers other Set. For our greetings cards, celebrating what’s different also refreshed sound card and very much design-led, custom design work too and, new ranges launching this and unique. “Happy Jackson designs for both Cliff Richard serving clients worldwide. BerinMade products span not year include Harry Potter, VW is a renowned brand for bright and Only Fools and Horses. only stationery, but lifestyle Campervan, Trolls, Hello Kitty, colours and positive captions Entertainment-wise, last goods, DIY books and projects. Zog, Baby Shark and more,” that has performed well for us year saw the release of an BerinMade features bountiful in the calendar and diary official Jurassic World card botanical prints and bold and product categories. Last which plays the sound of unusual colour combinations. The year, we launched the official a dinosaur roaring when studio’s designs are inspired by ‘May The Thoughts Be opened. This year, we have fashion, textiles, trends and history. With You’ range, featuring a brand new Baby Shark Her favourite things to positive drawings and card, which plays the make?” I love making paper captions inspired by author renowned Baby Shark tune flowers, there seems to be never Charlotte Reed’s own made famous via YouTube ending-varieties, challenges and journey out of depression.” - the dance video received application for flower crafts. In an This year, Danilo’s over two billion views.” increasing digital age, I love that looking to launch a brand z Facebook: 8,660 follows crafting is a deliberate exercise in new range for Ugly Dolls, z Twitter: 16k followers slowing down and taking in the based on the toys launched z Instagram: 2k moment. I’ve just completed a back in 2001. “Ugly Dolls z www.danilo.com project for Boghossian Jewels,

www.craftbusiness.com CREATIVE STATIONERY/PAPERCRAFT 19

Louise Firchau - Paper Panda Nikki Strange z Gloucester-based papercut celebrate all forms of art. “We products. z Super-talented designer, practises artist, Louise Firchau, was currently have 270k+ ‘likes’ on “I can only Nikki Strange, started her and cycles; clearly cut out to make the Facebook! I really love sharing the hazard a colourful career as a print aiding self- cut. Her hobby of papercutting joy of papercutting with others.” guess at the designer in the fashion development has led to an amazing career, Describing her style as “folk, number we’ve sold industry in 2010, after and self-care gallery exhibitions, a book deal, whimsical and romantic”, Louise - it’s tens of thousands! It’s a gaining her BA (Hons) rituals. Our goal is to create plus an amorous army of fans. hand draws and papercuts from great way to start papercutting Fashion and Textiles beautiful products with Paper Panda was born in her own, and her husband’s, and is full of hints and tips degree at the University purpose, that can be taken with 2010, when the papercutting designs. Products are created from moi! My personal of Portsmouth. Following you on your travels; whether superstar started making either in house, or by small UK favourite papercut has always freelance work for a number it’s your daily commute or typographical lyrical papercuts businesses, wherever possible. been ‘The Stag’… I’m not of print studios, and having somewhere more exotic.” from recycled paper. “I studied Designs include the ‘Starry sure anything will top that.” listed a range of her printed There has been much typography at university and it Night’ series, based on foxes, She’s now completed a notebooks she’d designed in demand recently to make became an obsession. There badgers, hares and stags in huge commission piece for her Etsy shop (which, to her stationery purposeful, and not is nothing more satisfying woodland scenes. There’s also the Angelina Jolie’s StudioCanal disbelief, sold out within just just aesthetically pleasing, than creating a piece of art ‘Storybook’ series and ‘Woodland film, The Breadwinner. “It a week) she found a huge to aid organisation, rituals using amazing fonts and Friends’ series of sketches and was a time lapse video of demand for her talents from and timekeeping. “Not in the hand-drawn images, then papercuts, featuring a lovable me papercutting the poster internationally-renowned usual way, but with natural hand cutting it so perfectly bunch of quirky characters. for the film, which was used clients, including Topshop, cycles, or memories. I’ve really that no matter what the size, Louise’s distinctive and highly- in their advertising. The A3 ASOS, Urban Outfitters and enjoyed putting my interests it looks like it’s been printed!” sought-after papercut designs piece has been my most Anthropologie. So, she set up in meditation, wellness Louise’s company has are displayed in her inspiring challenging project recently.” her own label, unleashing her and spiritual practices into grown significantly, her online book, Paper Panda’s Guide to Erin’s also been working on creative freedom and allowing my work to put some real shop offering a multitude Papercutting, published by Search a new logo for a publishers, her to work with watercolours, purpose into my products.” of merchandise, including Press, offering 20 papercutting “using a mix of papercutting painting the elements of nature She’s now working on a its own extensive range of templates - five from Paper Panda and graphic designw, plus that inspire her the most. new collection of designs. “I’ve giftware and original pieces plus five each from three of Paper hundreds of mini custom She’s now a globally- been painting lots of majestic A (paper) cut above the rest of artwork. There’s also an Panda’s friends and colleagues, sketches thrown in for fun!” sold designer of stationery, koi carp, wood pigeons, amazing ‘Guest Artist’ section Sarah Trumbauer, Louise Dyer z Facebook: 270k+ likes accessories and greeting Japanese cranes and rabbits. and Paper Panda has its and Suzy Taylor, all accomplished z Twitter: 5k cards who uses watercolours I’m not sure how the collection own thriving Papercutting papercutters in their own right. z Instagram: 18k and inks to create fluid and will go together yet, but I’m Facebook support group, “It’s been really well received, z www.paperpandacuts.co.uk highly-textural motifs inspired really enjoying working on it!” Panda Arts & Crafts, with over and I am so grateful to my loyal by her love of nature, travel Her website boasts a 13,000 members, to share and supporters and followers! The and colour. Since starting her ‘journal’, rather than the usual feedback has been superb and accessories label in 2013, blog, while her hot-of-the- it has almost entirely five star Nikki has seen international press title with Search Press, reviews on every platform. success and her products Watercolour Plant Art, gives a “I’ve written another are stocked widely in the modern twist on watercolour papercutting book, 20 to UK, the US, Australia, Hong flower painting. “I’m really Papercraft: Papercuts and, more Kong and across Europe. proud that I’ve just released recently, my first children’s book, Running her booming my new book as it’s something Finn Biddybum’s Cake, which business from her studio in that I just didn’t think I’d get was an amazing experience Hackney, East London, she is the opportunity to do. It made and has always been a dream proud to have won numerous me realise how much work of mine, There will be more textile design competitions goes into publishing a book, books in the future, I’m sure!” for her distinctive ‘feminine & but also what a joy it is to work Her DIY papercutting kits whimsical’ handwriting style. on the content, projects and are hands-down her bestselling From supercool Stardust collaborating with a supportive notebooks with gold foiling, team to piece it all together. It to magical A4 Lunar Moon was really incredible to share tear-off-sheet paper planners, my love of watercolour and, Nikki’s designs focus on the hopefully, encourage people making 320 soaps in our Erin’s inspirational book, cycles of nature, meditation & to try something new in the signature hand-sprayed gem Paper Parties, published by wellness. “Our new collection projects found in the book.” boxes, so my mind is whirling Pavilion, presents over 50 paper has stationery that is aimed at z Instagram: 12k+ followers with fragrances and colours!” projects for the perfect party. helping to connect with these z https://nikkistrange.co.uk She says her gem motif Highly-regarded in the has been a constant source of wedding world, Erin’s accolades inspiration and has become include The Wedding Industry synonymous with the brand. awards 2013: Best Newcomer, “There was a moment in our The Wedding Industry Awards business back in the beginning that year. Since then, the motif 2014: Best United Kingdom when we almost gave up what has seen many iterations, National Stationer and the we were doing because things from wedding stationery, to Wedding Industry Awards 2016, became slow-going and difficult DIY projects, to gift boxes.” which led to a role as judge to grow. We took a chance with The stationery and craft of the stationery category. our now-signature Gem cards, trends currently influencing In fact, her own wedding which read ‘You are a Gem’, her work? “I’m loving the was the inspiration behind which was instantly picked up throwback to 80s and 90s - setting up her company. “My by Oliver Bonas and Liberty more colour, less rules!” love of stationery was reignited when designing my own wedding, so it made sense to start our company based on wedding stationery design.” With the wedding season soon in full swing, Erin already has her wedding work cut out. “I always love working with clients who have a clear vision, and yet trust me creatively to execute their vision. ” z Instagram: 7,000 followers z Facebook: 1,800 followers z Twitter: 1,400 followers z https://berinmade.com

www.craftbusiness.com 20 CREATIVE STATIONERY/PAPERCRAFT

Sarah King - Lucy McGrath – Apple Seed Paper Cuts Marmor Paperie

z When it comes to papercut of the full- z Specialising in the ebru sanatī, the highly-skilled landscapes, Sarah King colour papercut centuries-old craft of paper art of Turkish marbling, on a wears the crown. The master landscapes that feature marbling, award-winning holiday in Istanbul inspired paper cutting artist’s art in my book of the same artist, Lucy McGrath, is a Lucy to sign up for a workshop, encapsulates the beauty name!” she says. very rare breed. The craft’s which led to an obsession of the English countryside Her book, Papercut now classed as ‘critically- with all kinds of marbling. and seaside, particularly the Landscapes, published by endangered’ on the Heritage Learning from practitioners towns and villages around the Search Press, offers a range Crafts Association’s Radcliffe of both English marbling Kent coast where she lives. of engaging templates created Red List, with issues affecting and Japanese suminagashi, Self-taught artist Sarah from nostalgic memories of its viability including the rise she began to craft her own has developed her delightful childhood holidays and day of digital printing and mass style, launching her business, paper landscapes over the trips to the British coast and production, fewer traditional Marmor Paperie, in 2015. last five years, seeing them countryside. “I’m delighted with bookbinders plus the closure Just eight months after evolve from single-colour how it’s been received. I’ve had of all the big marbling houses selling her first marbled journal, silhouette cuts to cheerful lots of positive feedback so to train apprentices. she was over the moon to be full-colour pieces. Along with far, ranging from compliments The contemporary paper recognised with a special award being snapped up from her With her art created from about the overall design and artist first tried the oil paint for her work - the Arts Society/ online outlet, Apple Seed pencil sketches, then cut content, to people sending me and water method of marbling Cockpit Arts Award, designed Paper Cuts, her unusual style carefully from paper by hand pictures of their interpretations at primary school, and fell in to support those practising of working with layers of with a craft knife, this paper of the templates. It’s love with book-binding while heritage crafts. “The win funded coloured paper and card has piecing expert uses textured so exciting to see!” studying Illustration at the my studio for a year! I was very led to her unique pieces being paper and card to create layers As for trends, she says University of Brighton. The lucky to have had that support.” shown and sold at exhibitions of colour and movement, adding she’s lucked out with a process was first developed Lucy marbles paper and galleries around the UK. a whole new dimension to her particularly popular theme this in Japan and China, before and binds books in the landscapes. Her Etsy shop bursts year. “I prefer to make things travelling to Turkey and traditional way at her small with not only bright’n’cheery that I feel a warm affinity for, reaching Europe in the 17th studio at Cockpit Arts in cards, prints and originals rather than follow trends, so century. Discovering Deptford, SE London. for sale, but bags, mugs and it’s a happy coincidence that Lucy’s marbling is furnishings, all emblazoned coastal décor is popular as characterised by a fresh, with Sarah’s signature style. it’s that happy, fresh, seaside contemporary colour palette Creating uplifting, joyful feel that I like to bring to my and patterns. She also offers landscape scenes, from the work. Regardless of trends, my her own range of luxury rolling waves on the coast creative heart will always be on stationery and original against brilliant blue skies, to the a sandy beach in the sunshine, marbled gifts. Bespoke items breeze-blown hedgerows of the watching the boats bobbing are made by hand to the countryside, her use of fresh, by... I also never make two customers’ specification, vibrant colours and charming originals the same because I and the inside pages compositions evoke memories don’t like repetitively cutting of her books are made of happy times. “Lately, I’ve the same things to order. So, a using fine Italian paper. been indulging my passion for buyer of my original work can Lately, Lucy’s been seaside scenes by turning some be confident it is the only one!” working on a collection line drawings into single colour z Instagram: 1.5k of exclusive marbled papercuts - quite the opposite z www.appleseedpapercuts.co.uk journals and papers

Cardology

z When Eamonn Holmes website. “That kind of exposure Their showstopping, handed his wife, Ruth for a small family business is painstakingly-handcrafted cards Langsford, one of incredible, and something we are a true labour of love. Using Cardology’s Valentine’s cards felt so proud of. To have our complicated paper-engineering live on ITV’s This Morning a product chosen and highlighted techniques (Kirigami and few weeks ago, the creative amongst other big brands on Sliceform) to create 3D models, cardmakers’ hearts skipped national TV is encouraging, the particularly intricate cards a beat. “We were waiting very and an affirmation that our open up 180 degrees to reveal a nervously for the Valentine’s work is being recognised.” hidden surprise inside, much to Day segment. It felt very Founded in 2014, the the delight of their lucky recipient. unreal to see Eamonn give family-run firm offers fresh and The team takes inspiration The company frequently recently learned that our our pop-up card to Ruth, and creative cards and prints from from latest and emerging takes on bespoke commissions. cards had made their way to seeing the surprise on her their innovative design studio in trends in British culture to Among the most exciting so far? members of the Royal Family, face was such a great feeling!” Surrey. The team of three - Dipa create unique cards that will “Creating VIP invites for Sotheby’s which was amazing to hear!” Those few seconds of Shah (Founder & Designer), leave a lasting impression. To so they could invite their very Their website sales are small-screen fame saw the Kripa Shah (Director & Senior complement their exquisite special clients to an exclusive growing 40% year-on-year supercool card company enjoy Designer) and Kripa’s husband trend-led 3D cards, they also event. The design took months, and, despite only recently a huge spike in sales on its David Falkner (Trade Director) offer beautiful pop-up art prints, but we were very proud of the bringing their products – combine their engineering including Alice in Wonderland outcome. We also worked on to trade, that side of the and design backgrounds with and London themes, plus free some new card design concepts business is already strong. an eye for fine detail basic customisation, along with with Heston Blumenthal’s “A few large retailers that we to produce amazing assorted luxury card bundles. restaurant, The Fat Duck, and would love to work with have 3D pop-up greetings expressed an interest, but our cards and art prints heart is, and will always be, with the wow factor. with our small independent retailers. We love to serve and help them succeed in this rough retail landscape.” z 4k followers across their social media platforms z 5k newsletter subscribers z www.cardology.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com CREATIVE STATIONERY/PAPERCRAFT 21

for Fortnum & Mason. She’s pleased to see well-known Zack Mclaughlin – Paper & Wood brands supporting marbling, along with a very well-known z Award-winning paper Street store into a handmade craft face… Last December, and wood artist, Zack paper secret garden - winning Lucy showcased her skills on Mclaughlin’s incredible eye the People’s Choice Award Channel 4’s Kirstie’s Handmade for detail became apparent at the RIBA Regent Street Christmas, with some special at a very young age. “My Windows Competition 2018. festive marbling, on ceramic earliest crafting memories The perfectly-orchestrated baubles and other objects. are making and painting and beautifully-executed Her book, Contemporary Warhammer figures… orcs, display of visual merchandising, Paper Marbling (Batsford), is goblins and dragons!” he says. showcasing Zack’s unrivalled out this October. “It’s basically a “I loved painting all the little attention to detail and very pretty guide on everything details, My love for paper and craftsmanship, saw 100,000 you need to know to start woodwork actually didn’t hit handmade, individually creased, marbling. It walks you through until five years ago, when I shaped and folded pieces of equipment, materials, tools found it quite by accident!” paper, capturing the whimsical you’ll need to start, plus helpful He has since created and fragrant essence and ethos Regent Street’s Winter 2018 step-by-step instructions for bespoke sculptures for of the Jo Malone brand. “This Retreat. “I loved creating all of various patterns. There are lots high-end clients and luxury was such a huge undertaking that the paper and fabric snowfall. of luscious examples of my brands, including Ralph we needed 26 helpers! It’s my I had a lovely team in, and marbled papers and objects, and Lauren Paris and Ascot biggest challenge so far… I had we managed to create over even a troubleshooting section try to keep an open mind Racecourse. Having created never managed anything on this 2km of lengths of snow, all to help out if you get stuck.” and give other crafts a go - it a giant handcrafted paper scale and it was a steep learning hand ripped and cut, then Trends-wise, she’s been can be really inspiring to garland project for Channel curve… Luckily, it worked out.” hand sewn onto lengths of keeping an eye on the latest see how others work and 4’s Kirstie’s Handmade Another of his latest wool. The end result was colours popping up. “Coral to step out of your comfort Christmas show, he was commissions was creating a so pleasing and magical, and deep blue seem to be zone sometimes. I’ve been asked back the following paper and snow wonderland for I just wanted it to feel like everywhere this year. Space having a go at embroidery, year to judge the wreaths. a winter wonderland.” exploration is becoming a but I’ve got a lot to learn!” Zack once created an What does he enjoy hot topic, so I’m channelling z Instagram: 2.5k followers endangered Gouldian Finch most about mixed media, galactic themes, too. I always z www.marmorpaperie.co.uk out of paper and wood for his combining the two crafts? “I hero, Sir David Attenborough. love to play and problem solve, “To see the photos of him so when it comes to making holding and playing with what something new, I will analyse I had made was so surreal.” what it is and then think hard And the incredible about what materials will sculptor’s clients have also work best for which bits of the included Barbour International, make. For example, acrylic the BAFTAs nominees party balls for eyes, clay and wire and De Beers, along with for the legs and feet, paper shopping malls in Hong for the feathers, Milliput for Kong and South Korea. the beak and wood for the His collaboration with body… all of these different Thomas-McBrien Architects, materials are great fun to play to create a showstopping with, as well as combine.” installation celebrating the z Instagram: 31.5k quintessential British garden, z Facebook: 3.5k turned Jo Malone’s Regent z www.paperandwood.co.uk

Simon Goode and Ira Yonemura - The London Centre for Book Arts z On a mission to teach the the studio was established publishing in the UK, LCBA craft and appreciation of in 2012, becoming the first welcomes visitors from all over bookbinding to the widest and only centre of its kind in the world to their hands-on possible audience, Simon the country. The artist-run, workshops, which range from need to master the traditional brands, LVMH (LVMH Moët Goode and Ira Yonemura open-access studio provides traditional bookbinding and craft of bookbinding at home. Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE) established the London education programmes printmaking, to contemporary LCBA also hosts private is a French multinational Centre for Book Arts (LCBA) for the community, along publishing practices, box and sessions for high-profile clients, luxury goods conglomerate, to offer access to space, with access to printing and portfolio making, letterpress and including Instagram, Amazon, headquartered in Paris. resources and expertise for binding facilities, for all Risograph printing, along with Faber & Faber, National Trust z Instagram: 29.6k followers anyone interested in book arts artists, designers and makers, self-publishing. “Our workshops England and the Southbank z Twitter: 6k followers and artist-led publishing. regardless of background, are a way for people with no prior Centre. “We’ve worked with a z www.londonbookarts.org After several years of education or experience. experience to learn new skills number of big organisations and planning and sourcing hard-to- Fostering and promoting from artists and specialists in brands, including Dior, Barbican find equipment and machinery, book arts and artist-led an active studio environment. and Snap Chat, to produce We run a series of introductory bespoke books or experiences.” bookbinding workshops, They have run offsite workshops which are very popular – so at venues including the V&A popular in fact, that we wrote Museum of Childhood, Somerset a book based on them!” House, Foyles, Whitechapel The authors of the aptly- Gallery and the William Morris named title Making Books Gallery, and regularly teach (Pavilion), the ultimate guide at universities and schools. to making beautiful books by The creative duo are currently hand, have seen their book busy working on a commission well received worldwide. “So for a book to be exhibited at the far, Making Books has been LVMH Foundation as part of their translated into six languages LVMH Prize for Young Fashion and published in seven different Designers 2019. The world territories.” The step-by-step leader in luxury with a unique guide contains everything you portfolio of over 70 prestigious

www.craftbusiness.com 22 SHOW NEWS

The industry as a whole trend style and this was her first seems to be regenerated by time exhibiting at the show. Trends and innovation at smaller mom and pop shops Overall there was a sense and, during an interesting that innovation was thin on the panel discussion, there were ground. However, I think maybe comments about how the you just had to look harder for independent store could win out it. As a crafter I saw many items over the large big box stores. I was excited to get my hands Creativation There was also the on and that I have enjoyed addition of the Stamp Village, using since the show. Ranger Alexandra Stapleton-Smith, founder of Hedgehog Hollow, a collaboration between nine released the new Distress stamp companies: Hero Arts, Oxide sprays, these are again a gives us the low down on the Phoenix show Waffle Flower, Art Impressions, totally new spray medium we Dare2bArtzy, Pinkfresh Studio, haven’t had before and would Concord & 9th, Lawn Fawn, Gina appeal to papercrafters, mixed K Designs and Altenew. These media artists and DIYers; as BEADALON mini_ADS 06/03/2019 12:51 Pagez January1 saw the annual released at Creativation 2018, brands acknowledge the need well as their new alcohol pearl AFCI Creativation Confernece, to allow crafters to create larger for collaboration in an industry inks, these would again appeal a five-day event held in wire pieces for their walls and with so many companies and to a diverse customer base. Phoenix Arizona, USA. DIY projects. The industry how working together can Gina K released a new range This year was a good mix of continues to see a passion for make each other stronger. of her Amalgam Inks in lighter crafts but with the usual focus journaling and self-reflection. This ‘village’ within the colours for those who enjoy on papercrafting. 2019, definitely There were a few new show had a photo area, lounge no line colouring, these could saw more cake decorating features at the show this year area to sit and talk; it was a be marketed to stampers and than we had seen before as too. AFCI launched two new refreshing change and created artists. Jane Davenport released well as more brands crossing awards, one was for bricks and a real community atmosphere. a fantastic new collection over into the DIY market. mortar retail members which Aaron Leventhal, the inspired by make-up. Not only are There was a new range of other materials, in addition to a was won by Pinspiration. The CEO of Hero Arts, said: “We all the products packaged like tools from Fiskars, bridging range of hand drills and other other was for online retailers wanted to be inclusive just like make-up but she has developed their traditional paper crafting more DIY centric accessories. and that was won by myself your craft room at home. We lots of training wheels for those tools brand into more heavy- American Crafts also upsized at Hedgehog Hollow, so had to start somewhere and who felt intimidated by mixed duty options to cut wood and their Wire Jig, which was we’re super proud of that. this was our beta test and I media or drawing faces. think it was very exciting.” One final product that I think While the show floor is always will be a great seller in 2019 an interesting place to see new were the Iron-On-Ink pens from products, the education sessions Art Esprix. These pens allow are also great; there is a broad you to draw on regular paper range of classes for everyone. and iron your designs onto any AFCI also offered new material containing polyester, product awards as well as that includes magic sequin exhibiting with excellence cushions, glitter HTV and more. awards; some stand outs from Overall, I think we can this year’s recipients are Ink say the industry is evolving; Road Stamps; this brand was the gap to DIY is closing as a started by Lara Smith, they younger generation become have a wonderfully modern on interested in crafting.

“As a crafter I saw many items I was excited to get my hands on and that I have enjoyed using since the show.”

www.craftbusiness.com YARN SHOP DAY 2019 23 Get involved with Yarn Shop Day Boost your business and join in the fun

z There is still time to get £400 (plus VAT) is spent then local, independent small them so they’ll stay beautiful sessions, hosting book signings, involved with Yarn Shop Day they can have both, absolutely business in our community. longer. That’s Soak-worthy!” giving away goodie bags or by 2019 – and there’s lots on offer. free. And for no extra cost you Soak is a crafter’s best friend Participating stores are simply offering tea and cake. Now in its sixth year, it returns can have your logo printed and helps position your shop encouraged to host an event by The mascots for this on April 27. It was launched in on either of these items. as a full-service destination doing something special on the year are a family of knitted 2014 by leading publications A spokesperson for Soak that not only sells yarns day, such as offering discounts, turtles by Sachiyo Ishii and Let’s Knit and Let’s Get said: “Soak is proud to sponsor that makers love, but also running competitions, holding a crocheted whale, called Crafting, and last year more Yarn Shop Day and support the means to take care of workshops or knit-and-natter Bubbles, by Sarah-Jane Hicks. than 200 shops took part A spokesperson from throughout the country. ChiaoGoo said: “ChiaoGoo is Feedback from retailers included proud to sponsor Yarn Shop Day increased footfall, boosted 2019. We hope the day is a sales and in some cases their huge success for everyone best day of trading ever. from the shop owners to Sponsoring the event the beginner enthusiast. this year are Vanessa Visit your local yarn shop Bee Designs, Soak, Lane or go on an adventure Mondial and ChiaoGoo. to visit a new, not-so- Vanessa Bee are local yarn shop. Learn offering an exclusive deal something new and most for retailers if they spend importantly have fun with £200 (plus VAT) with them your knitting buddies!” they can receive either 12 If you would like WEST DESIGNYarn Shop 1.2_ADS Day mugs 05/03/2019 or 12 09:44 Page 1 to sign up then contact Yarn Shop Day shopper bags Paige on 01206 508605 free of charge. However, if for more information.

www.craftbusiness.com 24 BIG INTERVIEW Flower Power! The Queen of Couture Craft Renowned multi-crafter, photographic stylist, bestselling craft author and presenter, Hannah Read-Baldrey, talks to Angela Sara West about her latest creations, collaborations and, her hot-off-the press subscription service z From fashioning fabric dolls Hannah has carried out style, food and ‘how-to’ video and flowerbomb-tastic tree copious commissions for content for brands, advising decs on Channel 4’s Kirstie’s leading craft titles, leading to on everything from creative Handmade Christmas, to a new monthly trend column, philosophy to DIY. In her role as showcasing fluid pouring, 'The Couture Craft Journal', in an influencer for Hobbycraft, candle and soap making for the recently-launched Crochet she’s created floral-inspired Hobbycraft, when it comes to Club magazine from the Christmas collections and has crafty all-rounders, you don’t makers of Crafts Beautiful. “I recently been making ‘how- get many more multi-skilled absolutely love working with to’ tutorials, demonstrating a than this classy influential Crochet Club, picking out few bang-on-trend crafts. “We crafter with a particular trends on new designers and have been filming lots of lovely passion for paper and florals. products really does inspire me videos on candle making, fluid Rated as “one of the UK’s and my work. Recently, I have pouring and soap making.” top craft influencers” by Craft been discussing the power Hannah also feels honoured Business Magazine, she has of colour and my big craft to have the coveted title of worked with the crème de tidy up, encouraged by Marie QVC’s Craft Ambassador, la crème of craft brands, TV Kondo! It’s wonderful to see alongside the ambassadorial companies and publishers and how many incredible crochet hat she wears for Ellison, is now branching out to garden designers and bloggers are representing their Sizzix brand, z FLOWER POWER FROM celebrations, food and drink centres, delivering unique craft really making their creations for which she recently filmed A FLORAL FASHIONISTA and more. She loves to share boxes, and much, much more. modern and vibrant.” a series on Christmas crafts. With on-trend florals continuing her latest news and tips for not Hannah’s love for craft “I was also recently delighted to bloom on the catwalk and high only craft, but cookery, interiors, and flowers goes back as far z HANNAH THE to be commissioned by Sizzix street, the leading stylist’s blog lifestyle and fashion, and has as she can remember. “I think AMBASSADOR Lifestyle to create one of my Couture Craft, at CoutureCraft. been showcasing a slice of her my passion was definitely Well known for her heroines out of paper for co.uk inspires readers to add personal life and projects on encouraged by my mother, chic’n’colourful creations International Women’s Day. I a beautiful botanical touch to this platform for over 15 years. who studied botany and can fashioned from fresh or paper chose Beatrix Potter! I hope not only clothing, but home Her website at www. name every single one, even the flowers, she regularly creates my portrait makes her proud.” décor, accessories, gifts, hannahreadbaldrey.com, Latin names!,” she explains. meanwhile, highlights Clearly cut out for a “Craft makes me happy, it allows me to Hannah’s commercial work, flourishing career in the craft with sensational set designs, industry, and armed with a express my creativity and brings me a massive a selection of her illustration BA (Hons) degree in Theatre work, plus food, fashion, Design from Central St Martins sense of achievement and wellbeing” beauty and still life shoots. College of Arts and Design, her career path has proven z SECRET CELEB COLLABS fruitful every step of the way. MakeBox+Co Hannah’s Mum’s the word, but Hannah Hannah’s now among the latest venture reveals she’s been filming for best of the bunch, creating "a new top secret celebrity unbelievable flower-filled makes craft show", too. “I have been for famous faces and brands, shooting an exciting new project alongside nurturing others for Channel 4 for which I, sadly, and giving them the tools and can't release any details yet. But, encouragement to grow their needless to say, we are bringing burgeoning crafting skills. celebrities and craft to daytime Hannah is on a mission TV later on in the year, and I to bring floral joy to the world, couldn’t be more delighted!” offering “creative styling for creative clients”. The well- z FLOWERBOMB! known craft personality With seemingly no end to her designs, makes and often talents, Hannah also boasts models her designs for luxury ‘bestselling author’ as a string titles like Elle, Vogue and Vanity to her creative bow, having sold Fair, along with leading brands. over 150,000 books worldwide, Over the years, she including Everything Alice and has collaborated with Cath A Girls Night In by Quadrille Kidston, worked with De Publishing, plus one of Pavilion's Beers Diamonds and, for the most popular titles. “I’m so proud past ten years, has created of Flowerbomb! 25 Beautiful Craft and presented video content Projects to Blow Your Blossoms. for leading magazines and It took about a year in the making retailers, including Red as I created, made and wrote the Magazine, QVC, Tesco and projects, styled the photoshoots, Hobbycraft, and has also and illustrated the whole book, worked as a photographic which has several gorgeous stylist for high-profile clients papercraft projects, such as the such as Debenhams, Waitrose, papier mâché Cherry Blossom Clarins and Boden. Vase and my joyful Happy Flower

www.craftbusiness.com BIG INTERVIEW 25

Garland, which is styled as a tail Child’ picture by Picasso on the z MAKEBOX+CO. - surprise. “With our backgrounds z HANNAH IN BLOOM to a giant balloon! I love a giant wall - it literally made me cry!” CREATIVITY DELIVERED in craft, fashion cookery and This fun-loving flower girl is now in flower, which is why I created Various paper artists TO THE DOOR! technology, we’re building full bloom herself – she’s also busy the Giant Rose Peony, and the influence her work. “I think Cultivating the creative a company and community creating an addition to the family, Cosmos Stationery & Cards, for I was originally inspired by community, Hannah has just for all ages that share our with her growing bump benefiting which you make your own stamps Rob Ryan’s papercuts, but launched her latest project, vision. Each box provides from her masterful maternity and use embossing powder I’ve now discovered so many MakeBox+Co. (www.makebox. everything you need, with quality makes. “In the early summer, I which, I think, is made of magic!” paper artists out there, such co / Instagram @makebox.co) a materials that will enable you will be having my rainbow baby!” as Su Blackwell, Paper Petal unique monthly box of creative to cherish your creations.” Alongside hard work, she says z A PAPERCRAFT and Helen Musselwhite, and projects in collaboration with “The first boxes will be the secrets to her phenomenal PERFECTIONIST I find Zack McLaughlin’s (aka talented artists and designers. landing in April, just in time for success are “talent, personality, When did her passion for @paperandwood_) botanical “I’m delighted to introduce the Easter holidays,” she says. unique ideas, multitasking… and papercraft unfold? “I’ve always creations utterly mind blowing. the most fabulous project, “In the upcoming months, I I think a lot of people really like loved working with paper. It’s His birds and butterflies are my exciting new business will be commissioning some me for my cakemaking skills!” an amazing medium - it can be so real, it’s incredible that they MakeBox+Co., a craft box wonderful designers to help As a very busy, self-described delicate and strong and can be have been made from paper! subscription service for adults me create the MakeBox+Co. "mumtrepreneur", how does she used to make everything from tiny “I absolutely adore floral and kids delivered to your door. kits, working with design juggle her numerous projects delicate papercuts to huge floral design and we were given the It’s the brainchild of myself names who have constantly and manage to maintain a happy wall installations. When most most stunning watercolour- and my husband, combining inspired me over the years.” work/life balance? “I create most people think of it, they think of a painted duvet from Anthropologie our talents in creativity and of my work from home, unless flat sheet of A4! But, for me, it’s last summer and I have been business. Alongside my z FAVE CREATIONS I am out shooting, which allows simply so versatile. From making obsessed by its illustrator beautiful designs, we will A few of her favourite makes? me to drop off and pick up my crêpe paper flowers or a birthday Paint and Petals, aka Brigette be working with the most “The Beatrix Potter commission son from school 90 per cent of card, to illustrating a whole book Thornton (@paintandpetals), amazing designers to create was a wonderful opportunity the time, but admittedly it can with papercut designs, there ever since. Her work is so inspiring and unique boxes.” to create something magical. make a short day so, sometimes, are so many ways to use it.” vibrant and effortless.” Hannah created I love to illustrate people evenings come in to play. I work a Hannah has also been MakeBox+Co. to help people with paper, as it’s an almost lot on social media, blogging and z INSPIRED BY LIFE inspired by the beautiful floral connect with their creative unexpected medium for that. I Instagramming, so I try to be free She sources inspiration jewellery collections from Alex spirit and claim back time to also loved working with Marie of my phone or devices by around everywhere. “Life simply inspires Monroe and Olivia Burton. invest in themselves and each Claire at Christmas, illustrating 8pm so that I can actually have me. I love nature, walking “Monroe released an Alphabetic other. Aimed at all ages and and creating mini sets for their a proper chat and sit down with around the park and seeing all floral-encrusted necklace skill levels, kits are brimming festive beauty pages, they were my husband to discuss the day.” the amazing flowers, going to range earlier on in the year, with original and inspiring all designed around children’s Flowers are frequently an exhibition, eating wonderful and Olivia Burton launched a curated projects that will excite fairy tales, such as Cinderella described as “sunshine, food food. The house we stayed at in Rainbow Bee collection. They’re and challenge subscribers, and The Nutcracker. Hannah and medicine for the soul”, and Ibiza last year had a ‘Mother and both delicate and lovely.” and each month brings a new has illustrated all four of her Hannah believes creativity and books and, showcasing her wellbeing are undeniably linked. ‘elegant, playful and whimsical’ “Being a family of creatives, we style, another of her much- believe in the power of dreams loved makes is the Alice In and fairy tales. Craft makes me Wonderland papercut cover she happy, it allows me to express created for her book Everything my creativity and brings me a Alice (co-written with Christine massive sense of achievement Leech). “It is GINORMOUS… and and wellbeing. I am blessed to it’s hanging in my living room!!” be able to do what I love!” FACTBOX For inspiration and to find out more, visit Hannah’s blog at Couture Craft: www.couturecraft.co.uk The portfolio of her commercial work can be found at: www.HannahReadBaldrey.com Sign up for her brand-new subscription boxes at MakeBox+Co: www.makebox.co Follow Hannah on Instagram and Twitter: @couturecraft

www.craftbusiness.com 26 INTERVIEW

A company run by crafters for crafters Stephen McAllister, Creative CWOC 1.4 2 COL_ADS 06/03/2019 12:52 PageWorld 1 of Crafts Sales Director,

tells us about the company to create a craft company that with Bella Coco, a leading craft z How has the market changed is hot on design and offers the blogger who will help us gain in the last five years? and their love of craft trade exclusive products they more traction in the market. Craft is definitely appealing to a can’t find anywhere else. younger market and is far more z What inspires you to bring diverse. You now have crafters z Can you tell us the history that design and innovation was z How is your company new products to market and who create across a number of of the company? key. Our team of specialists has developing and growing? how do you develop them? disciplines. There is so much more Creative World of Crafts (CWOC) over 200 years’ experience in this CWOC is experiencing rapid Our customers inspire us. We information out there for them. It’s began in 2005 with a limited range vibrant industry - our chairman growth. We’re investing heavily are always looking to bring not just knitting and crocheting, of crafting materials but we were was the founder and managing in design, personnel and product something new and exciting to papercraft and cross stitch are a group of people who had a clear director of DMC in the UK. The development. We have recently the table. The craft industry is in all enjoying immense popularity. vision and a long history in the important thing for us was we moved to a new head office in essence a creative business and “Craft”, it appears, is the new food, crafting business and we knew all shared a vision. We wanted Leicestershire to accommodate we work with leading designers following the trend for artisan, hand- our expansion. This allows us to keep evolving. We also listen crafted food you now have people to focus on customer service to our customers and try and wanting to make something whether and delivering what our clients satisfy their visions too. We for themselves or to give to others. need. We are developing into a are unusual in that we design, At one level our lives are one stop shop for the craft trade. create and manufacture here increasingly virtual. The return We offer market leading yarns in the UK along with having the to making and working with our Bernat, Caron and Lily Sugar ‘n exclusive distribution for the hands is, maybe in part, a reaction Cream, an exceptional range of world’s biggest knitting and to that. There’s also an increased papercrafts, KB Looms and an crochet yarns. As we are a craft awareness of provenance. People exciting range of cross stitch kits. business run by crafters, we are are aware of the ethics of where We are lucky that we have also eager to find something things come from and how they superb designers. This has new to satisfy our own thirst are produced. Then there is the allowed us to bring out the for new creative outlets. It’s sense of wellbeing that comes enormously successful Knitty great to work at what you love. with making things yourself. Critter range and, more recently, Countryside Companions which sees us bring out the first kits “We are always looking to that contain both a crochet and bring something new and knitting pattern so consumers can choose whether to knit or exciting to the table” crochet an adorable woodland creature. This innovation was z What can we expect z What do you feel has been the made totally with our customers from your company in the company’s greatest success? in mind as it allows retailers, in next twelve months? I think our greatest success has effect, to have two kits for the CWOC will continue to create been building a talented team. space of one. We have worked products that sell, such as the We have crafting aficionados, very hard to produce appealing Caron X Pantone innovation fantastic designers and people packaging that has great which is a new way to sell yarn. who know this industry which standout to aid sell-through. We work with world-leading allows us to produce a range artists which will continue to that consumers want to buy. z Have there been any see our papercraft and cross We are dedicated to offering recent developments stitch offering expand. We our customers the best service that have changed your will also be looking at ways and the best products at the company’s profile? to support our retailers and right price. We are constantly I think innovation has been help product sell-through. evolving our range and investing key to raising our profile. in the future of CWOC. The introduction of game- changing yarns such as the z To what do you attribute phenomenal Caron Cakes your success? literally sent the market into a Having an exclusive product frenzy. Our own Knitty Critters range of exceptional quality have made a real mark for and great design. us, generating real interest from multiple retailers z What advice would you as well as independents offer to retailers? because sell-through is so Talk to us about what you need good, as is the quality and and how we can help make price. As a company we are your life easier. We are in this adding to our team all the together and all stand to benefit time and have some really if we work closely together. talented people on board who are helping us drive z What services and support forward, raise our profile do you offer to retailers and expand into new areas who stock your product? such as cross stitch. CWOC has an array of POS CWOC has also invested support and uniquely we also in a national marketing and offer free pattern support with advertising campaign for all our yarns that retailers our leading brands across can use to inspire consumers best-selling titles, which has so they buy more. increased demand from 0116 271 3131 consumers and helped sales. [email protected] We are now also working www.cwoc.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com INTERVIEW 27

Hours As... 24 Amanda Gardner Amanda Gardner, Marketing Manager at Bright Ideas Crafts, tells us about her day

z What time do you wake up requiring my attention (like and what does your pre-work creating some new craft make routine look like? tutorials), I tend to take it later in My alarm goes off at 7am and the day and will bring something then my priority is to get my from home. Failing that I might nine year-old (Henry) sorted for pop out for a sandwich. school and drop him in so I can be in work for 9am – coffee in z What do you typically eat? hand! I try to sort everything the My colleagues can all answer night before so it’s not a mad this question for me! They always rush but invariably something will laugh at my addiction to tuna. scupper me – like traffic on the Basically anything involving A14 or a random tractor broken tuna! A tuna jacket potato, tuna down on the country road we live sandwich, tuna panini – it seems on. Once he’s at school I head to to be my default lunch of choice. the office in Bury St Edmunds. z How does a typical z You get into work – what does a afternoon take shape? typical morning look like for you? My day isn’t particularly I receive my emails on my structured so the afternoon phone so I usually have a fair can look quite similar to my idea whether there is anything morning. If I am due to send I need to prioritise. If there is, I out customer eshots or update start with the urgent requests. social media, I tend to do this in I’m a stickler for a ‘to do’ list so the afternoon as it aligns with I focus on anything urgent or the key times our followers are deadline-driven from my list next. generally using these channels. Once I’ve cleared anything working day start and finish do is get work experience. I copy – although creating urgent my day is quite organic. In z What time do you leave? later. In spite of my best efforts started off in publishing which exciting copy for some of the addition to executing the various We close the office at 5pm and I I don’t feel tired or ready for is a really over-subscribed more obscure products we elements of our marketing plan, leave shortly thereafter. Anything bed until gone midnight. career choice, so to stand out stock can be a challenge. I manage our social media that needs to be actioned after from other graduates I worked channels and the website content this time I work on at home. z A BIT ABOUT YOU for free for a few magazines z What are the most and updates so this takes up my How did you come to work in and newspapers to get some challenging parts of your job? time in between other tasks. I like z And what kinds of things do you your current position? experience. I also think that Probably fitting everything I to find lots of new and exciting like to get up in the evening? I worked freelance as a old fashioned networking is a need to do into only three days. things to talk about so am always I try to get to the gym if I’m marketing consultant for a really effective tool. Be friendly, looking for ideas for new craft not busy and love a spin London-based agency but personable and interested in z What does 2019 hold for you? makes, social media posts and or body pump class. If not, wanted something more reliable people and you never know On a personal level, I’d like to new product ideas to keep our midweek is spent relaxing with and closer to home. I applied for where you might discover move house but the property content varied and interesting. my husband and son, seeing the position via a recruitment the next career opportunity. market is a little uncertain friends or obsessively watching consultancy and was lucky at the moment, I’ll probably z What time do you take my latest Netflix boxset. enough to get the position. z What are the best hold fire on this until the dust lunch, and what do you do on parts of your job? has settled. Work wise, I want your lunch break? z Finally, what time do z What advice would you have I am quite hands-on in the to continue to help grow Lunch entirely depends on what you typically go to bed for someone looking to get into role and enjoy creating sales for Bright Ideas, push I’m doing as to what time and on a work night? your particular industry? craft tutorials and updating our new products, grow our where I take my lunch break. If Annoyingly I am a real night For a university or college leaver and designing new website database and explore new I’m in the middle of something owl and would much rather the I think the best thing you can content. I also enjoy writing sales avenues – like Amazon.

www.craftbusiness.com 28 INTERVIEW Experience and innovation in the craft market Graham Aldous, director at Peak Dale Products, talks about the brand and the future of the company

z Can you tell us the history of the company? I worked with my father, Chris, in the craft business since I was knee high to a grasshopper. I married Julie in 1987 and she also joined the company. In 2010 Julie and I had the opportunity to buy the manufacturing and wholesale side of the business and we did so in July of that year. Along with three other members of staff who came with us, we collectively have over 100 years experience in Peak Dale Products’ Julie and Graham Aldous developing and making products for the craft market and thus, Peak Dale Products was born. z What can we expect from your company in the next 12 months? z How is your company The next 12 months will developing and growing? be very challenging. Brexit We listen to our customers. might affect the purchase In fact, we encourage them of products from Europe so PEAK DALE 1.8 2 col_ADS 23/01/2019 09:06 Page 1 to contact us and ask for new we are actively searching for products. If we see a pattern alternatives made in the UK. or trend we will try to develop Even some components that we products to satisfy the demand. use in our own manufactured We are always looking at different products come from Europe, crafts and asking ourselves ‘can so we are stocking up. “We are always looking at different crafts and we make something that will We are also actively trying help or make that craft better?’ to become more eco friendly. asking ourselves ‘can we make something that We use mostly recycled boxes z Have there been any to send our orders out and will help or make that craft better?” recent developments shred all other cardboard for that have changed your packing. I am also looking z How has the market changed z What trends do you predict will manufacture ourselves, we can company’s profile? for alternatives to single use in the last five years? be popular in the coming year? produce a new kit within three- Not really. We have stayed true plastics. Plastic is a brilliant The internet has become We have seen a massive four weeks from the original to our original values which are invention but we need to find much more prominent. Even upturn in orders for glass, glass idea. Watch this space! to wholesale only and support something more environmentally the high street shops have etching cream and glass paint. the high street retailers. friendly at an affordable price. websites. I think that there is Wooden items are also selling z How can a new customer still demand for high street very well. Acrylic pouring is open an account? shops especially in the craft also popular, great fun to do Easy. Go to our website www. world, as people want to and has amazing results. peakdaleproducts.co.uk and touch, see and feel products. click on ‘Apply for an account’. Also, instore classes are a z What are you currently Fill in the details, send and great way to get customers working on? New launches, etc? we will get back to you within in and learning new crafts. Oooh. That would be telling. the hour with your log on No, seriously, we keep our eye details. We keep prices hidden z What services and support on trends and, because we from the casual browser. do you offer retailers who stock your product? We are always on the end of the phone, email or web chat to answer any questions that our customers have. We have just been awarded Highly Commended in the Support and Service category of the Craft Business Awards. We must be doing something right. Our Dan has been known to be on chat on a Saturday night in the pub. Dedication or what? We have a few experts here. Caroline is a master of metal embossing. She has developed a range of new kits and loves to help people with their queries. I have been in the business for so long that I know about most crafts, although I’m not an expert, and if I can’t help I usually know a man who can. In fact, we love to just have a chat.

www.craftbusiness.com ADVERTISEMENT 29 Accessible art products for all with the new range from Artiste West Design Products make sure you can see the wood for the trees

z With so much choice on the that split products by artistic favourite product within the market, how do you make sure medium. Jonathan said: “Colour new portfolio. He added: “With your products stand out, without coding by artistic disciplines such a broad range of products, overwhelming the consumer? seemed the perfect solution to from paints, pastels, tools, Jonathan Harris, Head bring all the products together pens and pads, it really is hard of Product at West Design for merchandising and to make to pick a favourite. However, Products, said: “The world of art end-user shopping experiences the paint sets and pads offer materials and tools can often simpler. Pink for watercolour great value for money and be a complex and daunting products, yellow for acrylics, the finish you can achieve place, especially for beginners.” blue for mixed media and green with Metallic Dual Tipped This is the challenge for all sketching requirements.” Calligraphy Pens is stunning.” the Product Design team However, not content with West Design are certain that at West Design were faced just re-branding, the team have the new look Artiste products with when updating their also been working hard to are going to create prominent best-selling Artiste range. create new products to keep the displays in stores and will Jonathan explains what they brand fresh and modern. June drive sales, not just thanks were looking to achieve with 2019 will see the launch of 30 to the coloured categories, the new designs. “We wanted new products within the Artiste but as Steve Bugh, Senior to develop the range so that range and Jonathan is incredibly Marketing Manager for the it created an impact when in proud of the latest additions: company conveys, they’re stores, to not only benefit our “We really have created a range hoping the range will also win RRPs that should tempt anyone shows West Design Products customers, but to ensure that of products which cover all the over a different audience. into trying a new technique.” have attended this year, so for it is also accessible and easy key areas for experienced artists He said: “The new Artiste Proving that the new designs more information on the new GROVESto 1.2_ADS shop for 05/03/2019 all consumers.” 09:43 Page 1 and those looking to start out.” products act as a cross-over are destined to be best-sellers, Artiste range, or to order, contact: The resolution? Simple, yet And, with his arm twisted, range, spanning artists and there has already been a huge sales@westdesignproducts. effective, colour-coded designs, Jonathan picked out his crafters. They have appealing amount of interest at the trade co.uk or 01303 297888.

www.craftbusiness.com 30 CROCHET Infinite possibilities in a 3D world Luisa De Santi talks about her life and her recent Magical Crochet Spells exhibition at The Spring Knitting & Stitching Show

z Luisa De Santi, born and based stopped. Both my mother and where nature is beautiful. The crayfish). In the undergrowth z HAS YOUR CAREER in Trieste (in North East of Italy), my sister were into knitting woods are full of nice natural there are a lot of amazing WORKING IN THE is a renowned Italian fibre artist and crocheting and my vegetation. There is a kind of insects and birds, soft THEATRE BEEN and textile designer. A broad grandmother was a great expert shrub (named sumac) whose moss and mushrooms. A AN INFLUENCE range of yarn techniques are her knitter too! When I was a child leaves in autumn become simple walk is an incredibly ON YOUR ART? main expressive medium. Her it was something I did to look burgundy, red, orange and inspiring experience. On Training in puppet theatre constant research focuses on like an adult. In my teens it fuchsia. There is a karst the seafront there is an offered me the opportunity experimenting and expanding on was a way to make something terrain (a topography formed amazing pebble beach, to learn a way to explore an the expressive potential offered unique to wear. In my life as an from the dissolution of soluble strangely shaped seaweeds incredible world of expressive by these techniques, especially adult it was a tool for a journey rocks such as limestone, and fish. I love flowers and possibilities. Puppet theatre is in their three-dimensional in my mind. So techniques, dolomite, and gypsum) with fruits too, so I enjoy places much more than a way to tell a facets and applications. The personal growth and research creeks in the sharp rocks, like greenhouses, flower story: starting from an abstract result may come in form of are going hand in hand. white surfaces, caves and markets and gardens, but idea, puppetry can elaborate wearable art, artworks, fibre waters full of incredible little also candy shops, button on emotions in an abstract jewellery and soft sculptures. z CROCHET IS A MAJOR creatures (like the proteus and shops and flea markets. language and in an abstract 3D KING COLE 1.8 3MEDIUM COL_CRAFTS FOR BUSINESS YOUR 06/03/2019 16:40 Page 1 space. Puppetry is a fantastic z LUISA, CAN YOU TELL US A WORK. WHAT IS IT ABOUT world where everything is LITTLE ABOUT YOURSELF CROCHET THAT YOU possible and it has been a big AND HOW YOU BECAME ENJOY WORKING WITH? influence on my way of thinking. VIRIDIAN 1-8 2 col_VIRIDIAN 05/03/2019 09:44 Page 1 A TEXTILE ARTIST? In my life I have made a lot of About 20 years ago, starting I started my “textile journey” different things. In the last 15 from puppets, I explored the as a little child and I’ve never years, my focus has been on 3D infinite three-dimensional creations, mostly made using possibilities offered by crochet crochet. I like my creations and knitting solutions to to be compact so they have express emotions and feelings. to be stuffed and sometimes The fact that it seemed possible worked with overlapping. to make almost anything Crochet is the perfect technique starting from a thread felt for creating stiff elements absolutely magical to me. So that keep their shape. experimenting with threads

z WHAT IS YOUR GREATEST SOURCE OF INSPIRATION? I create 3D objects because life is a 3D experience. So I find my inspirations in my everyday life. I was born and live mainly in an amazing place in Italy,

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www.craftbusiness.com CROCHET 31

use fibre art techniques without z WHAT PROJECTS calling themselves fibre artists ARE YOU WORKING ... why? I have often reflected on ON CURRENTLY AND this topic: Isn’t fibre art interesting WHAT’S NEXT FOR YOU or good enough? Is it a gender AFTER THE SPRING identity problem? Simple lack KNITTING & STITCHING of target? Basically and simply SHOW IN LONDON? I think that even today, and too A long-term project mixing often, craft techniques aren’t fibre art, knitting and crochet considered an artistic language, culture with 3D digital prints. but just ornamental elements. It It’s a very slow and expensive seems to me that fibre art is the work - I have been working on it “Cinderella” of arts and, I hate to for two years. I hope to be able say, hand knitting, crochet and to finish and show it. I hope to weaving culture is the Cinderella have enough time too. The next of fibre art. Fibre artists have events I am going to take part the responsibility of the future. in will be the two most popular and important craft events of z YOU ARE A CELEBRATED my country. Then in March, YARN BOMBER. IS a display during the Italian CRAFT ACTIVISM BID (Biennale Internazionale IMPORTANT TO YOU AND Donna – International WHAT CAUSES DO YOU Women’s Biennale). SUPPORT THROUGH IT? Basically I think that yarn bombing is the most powerful “Crochet is the perfect technique for creating type of public statement (like every sort of public art) stiff elements that keep their shape” and it has to be free for everybody to open became a sort of obsession comes to life when attached different forms and faces. I hope minds and hearts. and it allowed me to learn the to the others. I make a lot of that they enjoyed a little vacation It’s very important to different techniques needed to small units full of details. I don’t on another planet and came me. I support charity use the yarns like a language. know how to explain ... my work back with a feeling of happiness. projects and projects is based on experimenting I’d like to use this wonderful to raise awareness of z YOU FAMOUSLY WORK and takes a lot of time. opportunity to promote crochet human and animal rights. WITHOUT PLANS OR and knit like art languages. SKETCHES. HOW DO z WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOU DECIDE WHERE A THAT VISITORSCYGNET TO 1.8 2 col_ADSz DO 06/03/2019 YOU THINK 16:24 THAT Page 1 PIECE OF WORK STARTS THE SPRING KNITTING TEXTILE ART (AND OR BEGINS, AND HOW & STITCHING SHOW TEXTILE ARTISTS) ARE LONG TYPICALLY DOES TOOK AWAY FROM YOUR TAKEN AS SERIOUSLY IT TAKE YOU TO MAKE EXHIBITION, MAGICAL AS OTHER FORMS A PIECE OF WORK? CROCHET SPELLS? OF ART/ARTISTS? I prefer to use thin yarns and I hope that they could leave for Unfortunately, no. Fibre art isn’t love embroidery to create some moments their reality much represented in the artistic little details. My works have a and visit mine. I don’t want to scenario. Usually women use modular structure: every unit give specific messages except fibre and mixed media. On the is made as a single item, and it the fact that reality can have other hand, well known artists

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www.craftbusiness.com 32 SEWING

Minutes With... Alice Synge, Backstitch Founder and owner, Alice Synge, chats with Angela Sara West about her authentic Aladdin’s cave for crafters seeking stylish, modern dressmaking and quilt fabric and quality haberdashery items, plus a place to sew in a needlecraft haven which is leading the way with eco-friendly packaging

5z After trading successfully online, in 2014, trend-setting business Backstitch opened the doors to its bright’n’beautiful bricks-and-mortar fabric, yarn and haberdashery store within the wonderful walls of historic Burwash Manor, home to a collection of 14 independent retail businesses plus a vibrant, avant-garde café in a range of old farm buildings in the Cambridgeshire countryside. Backstitch benefits from a light and airy studio space where social sewers gather to get creative, with help and advice always on hand.

z What are your earliest sewing memories? I sewed a little in my youth. I had some enthusiasm for home dressmaking, in a ‘making-it-up’ kind of way, in my teens. I made a circle skirt and a waistcoat on my mum’s old hand-crank Singer WOW EMBOSSING 1.8 3 COL_ADS 06/03/2019then, 12:54 in my Page early 1 twenties, I got a sewing machine by request for my birthday but struggled to find anything I wanted to sew, the books and patterns were all so old-fashioned at that time. I came back to it in my late twenties and, by this time, blogs had starting appearing and a more modern scene was developing.

z What do you love most about the craft? z Who and what inspires you? I’m very ‘fly-by-the-seat-of- z What sets Backstitch apart clear change in behaviour in I’m a creative and love to create. Everybody and everything! I’m my-pants’ about sewing! from other haberdasheries? our Burwash Manor store, with The thing I most like is playing not sure there is a correlation There aren’t many independent customers usually refusing with pattern and colour, and between what I’m inspired z Do you enjoy any ‘full service’ haberdasheries. even a paper bag for their this comes out in my quilting by and what I create. I think other crafts? We sell quilt and dress fabric, purchases. Backstitch has and dressmaking endeavours. my style is written in the Dressmaking, quilting, knitting patterns, haberdashery and always used paper packaging sand. Perhaps if I put more and embroidering, most of yarn, we’re a Brother sewing for in-store customers but, z How would you describe your study time into it I could the stitch crafts, although machines dealer and also like many businesses, had sewing style in three words? change my style so that it not crochet or felting right offer classes. We like to think previously used plastic parcel Colourful, slow, enthusiastic. represents a direction, but now. I also love gardening! we cover all things ‘stitch’ bags for posting out online and bring interesting and orders. Like so many people, modern options to the forward- we are really worried about the thinking, stylish stitcher. impact of single-use plastics With utmost attention and know that postal packaging to quality, you only stock is a contributing factor. products you would personally use, meaning the store’s z Tell me a little about your selection has been carefully new initiative to reduce waste handpicked to reflect your and environmental impact own modern sense of style. Our online customers now In-store and online, our receive their orders in recycled customers are inspired brown paper ‘tied up’ with by a curated collection of brown paper tape. The move products that are designed has been welcomed by many to inspire and enthuse. customers and feedback is positive, that the brown paper z And a big leap last year was a is not only strong and practical, shift in your packaging policy? but also looks great. We’re The attitude towards packaging really proud to have made has taken a real shift recently this move to eliminate plastic and we are really behind this from our packaging and to move. We’ve noticed a very be virtually plastic free.

www.craftbusiness.com SEWING 33

“The thing I most like is playing with pattern and colour, and this comes out KNITPRO 1.4 2in COL_ADS my 05/03/2019 quilting 09:43 Page 1 and dressmaking endeavours”

z What are your top sewing tips for beginners and those looking to take their skills to the next level? With dressmaking, it is very much ‘make what you know you will wear’. People often fall into the trap of thinking they want to make a floral sun dress when they never wear floral sundresses. Make a funky blouse or a cosy sweatshirt and you’ll get lots of wear out of it and, subsequently, lots of pleasure! With quilting, it’s all about the overall effect. Don’t worry yourself over details and don’t agonise over your points. Enjoy the process, learn and move on! That’s very much the way with sewing. Each project is a learning curve. If you get too precious about it, you could spend your entire life unpicking and remaking the same item over and over again as your skills improve.

z Finally, how does it feel for z Backstitch boasts a schedule treat to actually see some Backstitch to have come such of craft classes, offering of the creation process. a long way since you started everything from hand and out almost a decade ago? machine stitching, dressmaking z Tell me a little about the We’ve been online for nine years and free-motion embroidery, to national events you enjoy and in our physical premises for smocking, quilting, knitting and participating in, such as Sew five, so we feel really grounded. crochet. How popular are they? Saturday and Yarn Shop Day That’s not to say that we’re Our classes and social The events are a fun way complacent, because the clubs continue to teach our to give a little back to our changing market and trends customers the skills they customers and to generate a always keep us on our toes, need to move forward. bit of renewed enthusiasm. We it’s just that we are confident Our social sessions have are pretty formulaic about the in who we are. 2018 was been a great success; the day, with cake and raffles and what I like to call a ‘solidifying’ atmosphere is brilliant – almost giveaways, but it’s all good fun year. I can comfortably say giddy. We all love our hobbies, but and a great way to catch up that we have found our place it can be a solitary pursuit, with all our regular customers on the UK craft scene and so bringing like-minded folk and to meet lots of new ones. are happy to be here!” together is a lovely thing we can do for our customers and it really takes it to the next level of enjoyment! FACTBOX: z Brimming with inspiring and z Backstitch keeps clients up-to-date via their blog and other colourful products, your bright social media channels. On the back of their successful Quilt and enticing store positively Club, they have just announced a brand-new club on Backstitch’s hums with the harmonious social scene - the Dressmakers Social. The monthly Sunday sounds of sewing machines afternoon session will host a happy gang of dressmakers sewing and stitchers’ chatter! What do enjoy most about the social in the studio space, utilising the big cutting table and ironing aspect that Backstitch offers? station,.sharing tips and stitching up some serious sewing! We love to see what people are z For further information, visit: www.backstitch.co.uk making and so, for us. it’s a real

www.craftbusiness.com 34 RETAIL CLINIC Brilliant visual merchandising tips to bring your craft store to life Sara Davies MBE, founder at Crafter’s Companion, passes on five tips to boost your store

z There’s something quite most important part of visual z PUT YOUR BEST special about a traditional merchandising because they ON DISPLAY bricks-and-mortar store and provide the first opportunity Next, think about how you can its ability to inspire customers to convince a brand-new conjure up some creativity in through clever layouts and customer to take a look inside. your product groupings. Highlight considered visual displays. A good way to attract your best-sellers on an attractive CRAFTERS COMPANION mini_ADS 06/03/2019 12:51 Page 1 Maximising your store’s full someone’s eye is to convey a display and place them next to potential doesn’t need to be an story through a visually striking complementing products. A new expensive, daunting task. There concept and well-thought-out customer contemplating the are some easy ways to inject a theme. For example, if you’re purchase of a sewing machine bit of freshness and make the launching a new line of winter may be even more enticed by an most of your space, which will fabrics and want to make attractive set-up, while someone hopefully impress some new it a focal point of a window who’s already made the purchase faces and excite loyal visitors. display, why not pair the range can add some new tools and with some other Christmas accessories to their collection. z WINDOW TO THE SOUL products to set the scene? You Grouping similar things together The first things to consider could create the illusion of a can encourage impulse buying. are store windows. These cosy room, complete with an Visual displays can also displays are arguably the artificial fireplace, handmade be a useful tool to expose decorations, Christmas cards customers to other merchandise and a bespoke cushion made without being too overwhelming. from your new fabrics. Executing Project examples, whether it’s a these concepts effectively, with a handmade quilt or birthday card, touch of DIY, can give customers add another sensory element some inspiration from the get- to just seeing the products in go and encourage footfall. their packaging and show the customer what they can achieve z BRANDING, BRANDING, when they combine specific BRANDING items. If nothing else, examples Once a customer has stepped can inspire some creativity and into the shop, you need to result in some helpful feedback. convince them to stay. Think It’s important to showcase about your brand and whether your merchandise in different it’s consistently represented ways. Nobody wants to walk throughout your store. Make into a sea of monotonous sure your company logo shelves, so use different shapes has a visible appearance on and sizes and add height and signage, packaging, staff depth where possible. Using uniforms and price lists. Does an attractive mix of containers, your brand have a particular such as baskets and buckets, colour theme? Incorporate can also set you apart. the colour and its varying shades throughout the store to z GIVE THEM A BREAK strengthen your brand identity. Finally, spare a thought for the not-so-crafty shopping partners z SIGNING THE WAY of your customers. Chances are Helping customers to find you might have some benches particular products is key so and chairs already but if not, it’s a welcoming, dedicated areas, good idea to introduce some. We accompanied by well-placed all know how bored a shopping simple signs, can prove to be partner can be when they’ve been really effective. However, it’s coerced into going somewhere important that signs are easy that they’re not particularly to read and it’s vital that you interested in. Chances are that choose your wording wisely. giving these people somewhere A ‘fabric corner’ is great but to rest their legs will mean more ‘sewing stuff’ won’t cut it. shopping time for customers.

www.craftbusiness.com CLASSIFIED FILLER_ADS 06/03/2019 16:25 Page 1

SHOW NEWS 35

DOING THE Thousands flock to Frankfurt BUSINESS… Creativeworld draws the crowds from across the world EDITOR Mark Hayhurst 01206 508618 [email protected] z Creativewold proved to be a “We’ve been coming here for 20 HEAD OF EDITORIAL hit with the trade once again. years and it’s the right decision (BUSINESS) The show saw 362 time and time again. You meet Emily Seddon [email protected] manufacturers from 44 customers and colleagues countries fill the Frankfurt from all over the world here.” HEAD OF ADVERTISING exhibition halls and inspired Most of the trade visitors (CRAFT) Martin Lack 9,152 trade visitors from came from the retail sector, 01206 505940 104 countries with their but numerous visitors from [email protected] product innovations, trends wholesale and foreign ADVERTISING MANAGER and new techniques. trade also placed orders at Danielle Harris Eric Chaveau, Managing Creativeworld. Visitor quality 01206 505954 Director, Pébéo, said: remains at a very high level: [email protected] “Creativeworld sets the pace 75 per cent of the trade ACCOUNTS for the year. This is where we visitors are senior executives, Anne-Marie Hartley present new products and find and they bring a particular 01206 505902 out how the innovations are purchasing and decision- SUBSCRIPTIONS MARKETING received by our customers. making competence with them. Holly Rayner It’s a very good driver for the Nils Knappe, managing 01206 505965 business year and for the latest director, H. Schmincke, said: [email protected] products to be accepted.” “Creativeworld is increasingly THE BAR RATE All in all, 6,306 visitors in the focus of our industry. UK £28.00 came from abroad. In addition We can see this in the very Overseas €40.00 to German visitors, many good contacts that we PUBLISHING DIRECTOR retailers from the Netherlands, meet here and the new Helen Tudor Spain, Great Britain, France contacts that we make.” DESIGN: and Italy were present at the Sabine Denz, a specialist MS Typesetting and Design fair. From outside Europe, retailer from Keh, said: “Every the USA, Russia, Australia year, I look forward to visiting Printed in England and Turkey were strongly Creativeworld. I’ve been PUBLISHED BY: represented. In particular, attending the fair for five years Aceville Publications Ltd large increases were recorded now and it’s an experience 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, for the Netherlands, the USA, every time. Direct contact with Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY Great Britain and Greece. my suppliers is very important ©Aceville Publications Ltd Karl-Heinz Hartmann, to me. I can experience the DISCLAIMER:The views expressed in this head of HQ Services, event different items right up close publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is made to ensure manager Staedtler, said: “Here here and examine the product the veracity and integrity of the companies, at Creativeworld we meet innovations carefully. The persons, products and services mentioned in this publication, and details given are a great many customers workshops in the Creativeworld believed to be accurate at the time of from Germany and Europe, Forum are also a must.” going to press. However no responsibility Whether in the on the shopping experience or liability whatsoever can be accepted but also from Australia and point of sale and become more for any consequence or repercussion of the USA. The mood is good Creativeworld Forum, the and the advice provided. attractive to customers. responding to any information or advice and we are very satisfied.” Street Art special presentations The main concern here was The Creativeworld given or inferred. Piero Frova, Marketing or the Creativeworld Trends: how retailers can meet the Forum, a permanent fixture Director at FILA, also explains: the focus everywhere was growing challenges at the at Creativeworld, also plays a formative role. “A few years ago, we realised the trade visitors want to take an active part in “Here at Creativeworld we meet a great many the proceedings. They want to try out the manufacturers’ customers from Germany and Europe, but latest products, tools and techniques. So we are now also from Australia and the USA. The mood is offering workshops throughout good and we are very satisfied.” the day. The response is fantastic,” said Michael Reichhold, HEINZ HARTMANN, HEAD OF HQ SERVICES, EVENT MANAGER STAEDTLER Creativeworld Director. WANTED Fabric & Haberdashery For any information regarding & any other clearance stock advertising in Craft Business, considered for please call Danielle Harris immediate collection. on 01206 505954 Please contact Martyn or email [email protected] [email protected] 07902 700 780

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