SPECIAL EDITION Jam-Packed with News from This Season’S Must-Visit Shows, Including Our 12-Page Guide to CHSI Stitches

www.craftfocus.com February/March 2017 February/March Issue 59 www.craftfocus.com SPECIAL EDITION Jam-packed with news from this season’s must-visit shows, including our 12-page guide to CHSI Stitches

Seasonal creations Discover crafts for spring, Mother’s Day Easter

SOFT CRAFTS The latest products for stitchers

February/March 2017 issue 59

Editor Julie Bonnar +44 (0)1376 514 000 [email protected]

Chief Sub Editor Louise Prance Senior Sales Manager contents Michael Richards +44 (0) 1376 538 481 [email protected] Sales Manager Gary Cousins +44 (0) 1376 538 490 regulars shows [email protected] editor’s letter 5 show news 25 Account Manager An overview of what to expect in this issue Keep up-to-date with what’s happening in Tracy Voice your industry +44 (0)1376 535 618 [email protected] industry news 7 Production Manager What’s happening within the hobby and back in Birmingham 33 Scott Brothwell craft market Get ready for the UK’s biggest trade event, Senior Graphic Designers CHSI Stitches Stephanie Hodder, Vicky O’Connor brand spanking new 17 Graphic Designers A look at the latest product launches all kinds of everything 104 Amy Smith, Chloe Edey +44 (0)1376 535 616 What’s happening at this year’s London [email protected] bookstand 74 Stationery Show Production Assistant The newest craft-related book releases Charlotte Potter Web Development Manager ask the expert 82 85 Stuart Weatherley Leading experts in the industry help with Subscriptions Beth Varney retailing and crafting dilemmas +44 (0)1376 514 000 KD Media Publishing Limited project 123 Pantile House, Newlands Drive How to use Glue Dots’ latest stitch glue squares Witham, Essex, CM8 2AP, UK www.craftfocus.com to make a charming spring hanging for your Front cover image: shop window Art Gallery fabrics distributed by Hantex (page 96)

ISSN 1758-0900 95

Craft Focus is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing Limited. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those features of the publisher. Craft Focus is published six times stitching in style 69 a year. Subscription rates for overseas readers What’s trending in the world of sewing and stitching are £75 per annum (incl. p+p), Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing Limited and sent to Craft Focus, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, fun with fabrics 79 Witham, Essex, CM8 2AP, United Kingdom. Stock the latest fabrics to introduce your customers Craft Focus magazine is proud to be to soft crafts associated with and supporters of: spring is in the air 85 Products to put a spring in your step when it comes to Easter and seasonal sales

mum’s the word 95 Prepare for Mother’s Day, and make sure you have products to captialise on this one-day event

creative bride 111 Cash in on the handmade wedding trends and stock products for this sector

craftfocus 3 111 TRADE-WIRES.CO.UK

focus on getting noticed 64 Julie Bonnar talks to Paul Smith, Managing Direct of Pajatex, about its new marketing function to help small businesses get seen editors’ picks 76 Five foodcrafts that crafters will love to make a piece of cake 90 Craft Focus catches up with Marion Frost from Patchwork Cutters to talk about how she’s on a mission to make cake decorating easy product showcase – adhesives 103 We showcase some of the best for crafting on the market returning to craft 117 Craft Focus talks to Dominic Fleming as he rejoins ICHF Events Unit 3, Zone A after 13 years away from the craft industry Chelmsford Road Industrial Estate, Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 1HD up and coming 128 Tel: 01371 238 013 We chat to Karen Banfield from THREADS Inkjet Printables about its revolutionary new way to print on fabrics tried and tested 130 EGGERS DELIGHT Julie Bonnar puts ‘Create your Own’ tote bag kit from Thames & Hudson’s Craft Studio series through its paces & eLitEeLitE miNiatUreSmiNiatUreS 17

business advice buying into the trends 66 Michael O’Connor, PR & Marketing expert from Grey Sergeant, explains how to use trends to influence your business standing out in the crowd 88 Lee Nicolaou from Business Agent discusses how to raise Everything you need to decorate eggs equity for your business through crowdfunding We have stands, ﬁ ligrees, braids, ﬁ gures and much more... and, of course, blown eggs. Google and the Mobile First search index 92 We also make rubber moulds - any size - starting from £40 Intelligent Retail’s David Fairhurst explains how Google’s please contact us for further details. new search index could affect your website’s ranking Check out our website shout about your business 100 www.eggersdelight.com Sara Davies discusses the importance of building good relationships with the media or contact us on 01903 725593 or email [email protected] if you have any questions.

4 craftfocus Editor’s pick: How pretty are the new 96 Preciosa Ornela tee beads. Available from Creative Beadcraft, www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

It’s show season!

I’m a bit of a creature of habit I’m afraid, and this time of year is one of my favourites when it comes to crafting. As I finish this magazine, the whole craft industry is preparing for trade events at home and abroad. I’m winging my way to Creativeworld in Frankfurt soon so I’ll be dusting off some cold weather clothing and really comfy shoes! I’ll share with you what I find in the next issue. February is, of course, CHSI Stitches month – and it’s a time for catching up with others in the craft sector and getting to grips with what’s set to be big news in terms of products and creative ideas. This issue is our biggest one of the year, and we’ve worked hard to bring you a bumper show preview so you can plan your visit. We’d love to see you at the event so pop on over – we’re on stand 12J35. As a retailer, the trade shows really are a must-attend to keep your business up-to-date with the fast pace of crafts and hobbies. We’re also looking ahead to warmer weather with preparations for Easter, spring and Mother’s Day. We touch base on the topics of handmade weddings, new seasonal fabrics, sewing and stitching too.

Hope to see you soon and enjoy what’s inside! Julie

Julie Bonnar Editor

Visit us on: Twitter: @craftfocus Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/craftfocus Facebook: www.facebook.com/CraftFocus

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29 Castle Crescent, Reading, Berkshire RG1 6AQ industry news industry news A round-up of news from the crafting industry

HALF YARD SERIES HAS BECOME A BEST SELLER FOR SEARCH PRESS The original Search Press Half Yard series by Debbie Shore launched back in 2013, with the publication of Half Yard Heaven. Now three years later, it has five bestselling titles in the series with more to come. The series has sold over 250,000 copies during this period and sales are showing no signs of slowing down. The Nielsen Top 100 shows the sales of craft books through trade bookshops and and theHalf Yard series is consistently in the top 100. Debbie’s first book in the Half Yard series, Half Yard Heaven is a shining star and constantly in the top sellers for craft books among the colouring books. There are over 1,000 five star reviews for the series on Amazon, and in the US Jo-Ann Stores, the leading craft chain, it has sold 3,000 of Half Yard Heaven alone, creating attention and interest that competitors are keen to now emulate. Half Yard Vintage is due to publish in the autumn 2017 and Half Yard Bags will be available in 2018 with lots more planned. “The Half Yard series came from an idea I had for using small pieces of fabrics to create a range of different projects for the home, gifts and for yourself. The first in the series was Half Yard Heaven, which initially I titled Less than Half a Metre, Less than Half a Day. This proved to be a bit of a mouthful so one of the editors at Search Press changed the name, and a bestselling book (and the first of many) was born! I think the main appeal of the series is the simple explanations on how to make each project, as well as excellent photography and the small amount of fabric that’s needed.As a beginner sewer, cutting into a large piece of fabric is the most daunting thing, but with my Half Yard projects, the crafter doesn’t waste much fabric if it all goes horribly wrong! The series enables you to make anything from doorstops to handbags, Christmas decorations, as well as fun items for the kids and projects for the home. And there are still more titles to come!” says Debbie Shore. For more information about this popular series of books from Search Press, visit the website www.searchpress.com

ANNOUNCING A NEW NAME FOR THE CRAFT AND HOBBY AFCI is now set the course for a strong and successful future as ASSOCIATION – CHA the preminent voice of the creative, craft and hobby industry and an We caught up with Craig De Souza, Executive Director of the CHA-UK unmatched resource to support the continued growth around the about the planned name change to the association, commencing this world. AFCI, as a global association, is committed in delivering greater January 2017, and the future direction and strategy of the association value, and you’ll see the results of their findings as they launch new both in the UK and globally. and improved programs and benefits throughout 2017. “We’re proud to announce your association’s new name is Attendees experienced positive changes at Creativation in January Association For Creative Industries – UK (AFCI.UK). The name change 2017, which included a completely redesigned event, attracting new is designed to embody all of the members we represent and better manufacturers, buyers and influencers. The new initiatives will also align us with the global industry we support. Our message and mission be at the One Big Show 18th -19th June, 2017 in Coventry, UK. To book doesn’t change, the AFCI.UK exists to unify, develop, inspire and serve tickets visit www.onebigshow.co.uk. its members within the Creative Industry,” says Craig De Souza “In keeping with the new global brand strategy, the AFCI.UK will be “The name change has come about as the world is changing, leveraging the global association, but will be providing local support retailing is changing, consumers are changing and the creative industry to its UK Members. We’re your advocates, your information resource, is changing, so as an association it’s paramount that we stay relevant your research partner, your community and be the cornerstone of the to our industry and member’s needs,” Craig comments. creative, craft and hobby industry. Everything we do is done for you, AFCI.UK is here to help make sense of the creative industry, guide our member. Over the coming months, as an AFCI.UK member, you’ll you through an evolving landscape, help you figure out the impacts experience a renewed commitment package,” said Craig De Souza. of this change to your business and to be your voice along the way. For more information visit www.AFCI.uk or call Craig De Souza on As a global association, the AFCI has spent the past year conducting + 44 (0)1206 364977 or email [email protected]. an extensive study of the evolving environment and your needs, so that we may better serve this community. Through market research, personal interviews and focused surveys with members, and non- members, AFCI has gained real insight and developed a refreshed brand strategy.

craftfocus 7 industry news

NEW SEWING TV CHANNEL HITS OUR SCREENS Sewing Quarter is the UK’s first TV shopping channel dedicated to sewing and quilting and is the brainchild of Immediate Media, the makers of Simply Sewing, Today’s Quilter and Love Patchwork & Quilting. The channel goes live on Freeview channel 78 every day from 8am until 12pm where stitchers can discover inspirational project ideas, techniques from the best designers in the industry plus some irresistible offers on all their favourite fabric MAY THE BEST MAN WIN and sewing room essentials. The winners from the Glue Dots competition in the The team behind the Sewing Quarter lives October/November issue included Karen Phillips, from and breathes sewing and quilting. “We’re Loopy Ladies in Bromsgrove, and Mark Johnson at Quarry excited to help you improve your sewing Bank (shown here receiving his prize from Dave Angus, and quilting whatever your skill level, and European Key Account Manager for Glue Dots). Mark was we’re dedicated to having lots of fun along most delighted to win this prize, and said he loves Glue the way – from choosing the fabric to that Dots and uses them in his day-to-day business when final ‘tah-da’ moment!” framing art! To find out more visit the website Glue Dots are distributed by West Design products, www.sewingquarter.com. www.westdesignproducts.co.uk.

GET INVOLVED WITH NATIONAL STATIONERY WEEK THIS YEAR Greeting Card Association (GCA), Cambridge University Press and The organisers of National Stationery Week, the UK stationery Explore Learning all lend their support to the campaign, helping to market’s biggest consumer sales initiative, are appealing for promote awareness of sponsor’s products. manufacturers, suppliers and distributors of stationery products to Nicola Shepherd, Trade Marketing Director for Sheaffer, who has come forward to support their industry and get involved with the sponsored the campaign since its inception in 2011 said, “We never event this year. hesitate to sponsor National Stationery Week and we continually see Previous sponsors Nu:co International and Sheaffer have a huge return on our investment. The campaign continues to yield already signed up for 2017 and the campaign wants to enlist more results and grow year-on-year. We’re proud to have been involved companies to help build on its previous five years’ successes and since the beginning.” ensure National Stationery Week and World Stationery Day have the The 2017 campaign promises to be bigger than ever before full awareness and backing of the industry. The campaign runs from following the purchase of National Stationery Week and trade the 24th - 30th April 2017, with additional events planned in the run up, exhibition, the London Stationery Show, by Ocean Media Group, more than doubled its audience reach in 2016 compared which wholeheartedly supports the campaign. Tim Willoughby, to 2015. Sponsors benefited from appearing as part of the campaign COO of Ocean Media Group, spoke about the initiative, saying, “This in both consumer and trade press, on social media and other is an exciting opportunity for brands to capture the imagination of online platforms. consumers and retailers and now is the perfect time to get involved. Last year, its social media campaign for 2016 boasted a reach of The campaign is multi-faceted and marks an ideal opportunity to more than 45 million users across Facebook and Twitter, including present to B2C and B2B audiences, whilst getting involved in some connections with key influencers like Sarah Millican and top retailers exciting, fun and varied events. Support your industry and help it Paperchase, Laura Ashley, Ted Baker and Ryman. The hashtag flourish in 2017.” #NationalStationeryWeek trended for four out of the seven days of If your business is interested in being part of National Stationery the 2016 campaign. Week contact Vanessa Fortnam on +44 (0)1666 824 624. Suppliers and retailers alike will be able to access an eye-catching selection of POS packs, which offer a one-of-a-kind sales opportunity. Stores that took part last year enjoyed week on week sales increases on stationery products across all categories. Charities and educational establishments National Handwriting Association, the Writing Instruments Association, the Post Office, the

8 craftfocus industry news

NATIONAL TOY BRAND SCOOPS THIRD AWARD A thriving north west-based creative toy brand TYPO OPENS FIRST UK has scooped its third major award. STATIONERY AND GIFT STORE Little Brian fought off tough competition AT WESTFIELD STRATFORD from worldwide brand Crayola to be named Typo opened the doors to its the winners of the Painting and Colouring Materials category for four first bricks and mortar store in to seven year olds at the Creative Play Awards. the UK at Westfield, Stratford Lara Alcock, Sales Director at Little Brian, admitted everybody at last December and predicts this the business was over the moon that its Paint Sticks product, which store to be its busiest globally. are ideal to use for art and craft activities, has been recognised once The new store, which comes again at a coveted awards. “This is our biggest achievement to date. as a result of strong customer 2016 has certainly been one to remember and we’re extremely proud demand, follows a successful of the achievement, and to be able to prove that our products are online launch into the UK in perfect for children who love doing all things art and crafts,” she said. last April. The first brand from global retailer, Cotton On Group, to Following a nomination, products, which entered the category, launch in the UK market, the new Typo store represents the brand’s underwent weeks of intensive testing by independent testers, who 200th store globally and makes the UK its 12th country. were mainly childcare professionals. Testers looked for a number Since launching online, UK customers have purchased more than of things to meet the criteria including value for money, age 50,000 notebooks and while Londoners account for almost a quarter appropriate and enjoyment factor. of the online store’s daily traffic, over 50 per cent of weekly site visits Paint Sticks provide a clean and convenient way to paint with no are from new customers just discovering the brand in the UK. The need for water or the mess that comes with it. The solid paint sticks demand in this market has encouraged the brand to start actively twist up and down, like a glue stick, and allow vivid colours to be looking for its next store location with a potential to open over 100 transferred directly onto surfaces like canvas, wood, paper, card and stores in the UK over the next five to 10 years. even glass drying within minutes of use. The Typo store offers its entire product range, which includes fun, More information about Little Brian and Paint Sticks can be found quirky and affordable stationery, gifts, tech, travel and arts and craft on website www.littlebrian.com. as well as an in-store product personalisation service. Bianca Ginns, Typo General Manager, said, “We’re excited to have opened this store. Since launching our e-commerce business typo.com, sales NEW FABRIC PARTNERSHIP have exceeded our expectations and UK customers have been quick Hantex is delighted to be partnering Monaluna Fabrics in the to adopt our quirky offering across stationery, craft, tech and travel UK with both distribution and marketing. ranges. Londoners can expect a store with a distinct Typo flavour. Monaluna offers a great quality fabric with Typo is unique, fun and always unexpected – a lifestyle destination exciting, contemporary design, and of course, that allows customers to add personality to their space.” organic credentials. All artwork is created in-house at Typo headquarters in Australia, The ranges are compact yet desirable ensuring products remain authentic. Whether it’s stationery, gifts, with each design complementing all the tech or travel accessories, Typo’s extensive range will ensure life others and are ideal for quilting, garments never gets dull! and home décor. To find out more information about the brand visit the website The first two ranges are: www.typo.com. • Simple Life, which include stylised geometrics, flora and fauna in a crisp, fresh palette that are available on lawn, canvas and poplin. • Cottage Garden, which consists of playful and sweet, brings to mind an idyllic English country garden. This is available on poplin. To find out more about Moanluna fabrics visit the website www.hantex.co.uk.

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The London Bead Co. Delicate Stitches

Threads Swarovski Crystals Seed Beads Delica Beads Findings

339 Kentish Town Rd. NW5 2TJ 0207 267 9403 [email protected] industry news

I AM AN ARTISAN CHALLENGE FreeSpirit has announced the ‘I am an Artisan’ challenge where 12 quilters can earn the chance to be selected to exhibit a quilt with Kaffe Fassett at the Fall International Quilt Market and Festival in Houston, TX in 2017. The challenge, curated by Kaffe Fassett himself and other industry experts, celebrates his pinnacle new Artisan fabric assortment from Kaffe Fassett for FreeSpirit, drawing upon Kaffe’s undisputed colour genius as well as his decades of experience in fashion, knitting, painting, needle arts and patchwork. Artisan is composed of 100 per cent premium two-color print cottons, hand-dyed batiks, and provocative yarn-dyed woven and classic Ikat fabrics. ALL COUNTIES The ‘I am an Artisan’ challenge is your opportunity to push CRAFT CHALLENGE your limits by mixing his batiks with Ikats and cottons, even John Bloodworth. crossing colorways to create a quilt that really speaks to the true Freelance TV producer meaning of the word Artisan. The challenge encourages quilters and guest presenter, to showcase the harmony of color and texture so prevalent in is also known to many the fabrics of Artisan through the creation of 60in x 60in quilt as ‘Gentleman Crafter’ featuring 80 per cent of the new Artisan by Kaffe Fassett fabrics. as a result of his blog, The jury will look to select quilts that speak to a time when www.gentlemancrafter. handcrafting resonated a true dedication, appreciation, skill and wordpress.com. love of the craft. Last year, John set off to share his passion for all things craft The contest runs from 2nd January until 2nd June 2017. For more around the UK to raise funds for Mind, a UK mental-health information visit www.freespiritfabrics.com. charity. John left the comfort of his home and spent just over a year visiting each and every one of the ninety-two historic counties in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland and various islands. Along the way, he taught workshops in crafting, blogging and vlogging from his motor home. You may ask yourself why? His response was “Its fair to say that my own life has been turned upside down by mental health issues in recent years, with severe depression and general anxiety disorder making day-to-day life a genuine struggle, but Mind was there for me and has been an outstanding resource and support mechanism through it all. Through my work and my blog I have also heard many similar stories from individuals around the world. I did this challenge in order to give something back and to help Mind help others who have been affected by similar issues. As an added bonus, I hoped to share the calming, focusing and ultimately beneficial properties of a creative hobby along the way.” The target for the JustGiving page is £20,000 to be reached by the end of March 2017 so there’s still time to donate TAKING YOUR CUSTOMERS FROM CAKE BEGINNER TO EXPERT here and help John reach his goal: www.justgiving.com/ Every issue of Cake Decoration and Sugarcraft magazine is full of fundraising/allcountieschallenge or for more information visit easy-to-follow, step-by-step projects aimed at all skill levels within the gentlemancrafter.wordpress.com. art of cake decorating. The magazine aims is to give your customers, its readers, the very best guidance in how to make their sweet creations absolutely amazing, every time. The dedicated team behind the publication provide clear and easy All you have to do is contact Natalie Cole on +44 (0)1778 392 404 or to follow instructions on new techniques and styles and give valuable email on [email protected]. hints and tips on how to get the best from the huge array of products, new and old, available in your very own outlet. Warners Group Publications, the publisher of Cake Decoration and Stocking this great title will enable you to provide your customers Sugarcraft magazine, can offer a fantastic deal on a sale or return with all the information they need on how to use the products and basis plus 25 per cent of the cover price in commission – it’s a risk free tools you stock and encourage them to develop their skills further. opportunity that you can’t afford to miss!

craftfocus 13 industry news

SELVEDGE FAIR IN TIME FOR CRAFT COMPANY TARGETING FURTHER EXPANSION MOTHER’S DAY Crafter’s Selvedge will take over the Tea Companion, the Room in Bath’s 18th century craft supplies Assembly Rooms for its seasonal business has spring fair on Satureday 25th March, 2017 between clearly outlined 11am and 5pm. Curated by the team behind the renowned brand, its intention Selvedge, the fair will bring together some of the UK’s finest for continued merchants and makers selling their rare fabrics and textile treasures. expansion by Visitors to the fair will also get the chance to their won appointing fabric flowers in a series of workshops inspired by Natalie Chanin experienced of Alabana Chanin, the US-based ethical textile and slow commercial expert fashion movement. John Nicholas. This will be Selvedge’s fifth fair in Bath and just in time for With a solid Mother’s Day gifts. The Assembly Rooms are home to Bath’s fashion foundation to Museum, which will be showing Lace in fashion at the same time. expand in place, Selvedge will run a series of textile-inspired events including John becomes Chief Commercial Officer and will oversee the behind-the-scene tours of the museum and Austin-inspired walks growth of the company’s online and offline retail operations in around the city. the UK and Europe. He already has existing knowledge of the For more information and to book tickets, visit the website business having worked with its board in a strategic advisory www.selvedge.org. role for 18 months and subsequently as a non-executive for six months. Crafter’s Companion founder Sara Davies MBE said, “The appointment of a professional of John’s calibre underlines our intention to seriously expand Crafter’s Companion over the next 10 years and beyond by meeting the needs of crafters and craft retailers across the world. “Having spent time with John over the last two years, I know that not only is he an astute businessman, but he understands the value of our company culture and the requirement to always be focused on the needs of our retail partners and of course the end consumer.” NEW FASHION COLLABORATION SHOWCASES BRITISH CRAFT John brings a wealth of multichannel retail experience to The British Fashion Council and Google has unveiled a new digital the business. His notable career achievements include taking educational platform that brings to life the creativity, heritage and a business from a £30million turnover to £100 million in just craftsmanship of British fashion. The platform g.co/britishfashion four years. He will be responsible for all of the company’s features content from fashion icons, brands, designers, photographers, commercial teams, including marketing, sales and retail. His stylists, models, makers, and craftspeople including the Royal School of main focus will be on driving sales across various channels, Needlework. The new initiative is a single destination that educates and developing customer experience and shaping a clear growth inspires future generations of young fashion creatives, designers and strategy. Commenting, John said: “I’ve witnessed the students. Visitors can watch industry giants, from Burberry to Vivienne progress of the Crafter’s Companion business over the last Westwood, feature in specially curated digital exhibits. They are also few years and been very impressed by the culture and the able to go behind-the-scenes of top craftspeople such as the Royal growth opportunities that exist. We have fantastic people and School of Needlework. fabulously loyal customers, which is a great foundation. We’re Dr Susan Kay-Williams, Chief Executive of the Royal School of a truly multichannel retailer and our aim is to put the customer Needlework (RSN) said: “We’re delighted to be part of this project and at the centre of our business and inspire with products, while educate and inspire audiences around the world. Traditional crafts such making it easy to purchase from us, whether that be through an as hand embroidery is part of our heritage, and it’s fantastic to see this independent retailer, our own stores, TV or online.” tradition so current again in today’s fashion. The RSN is the only place For more information about Crafter’s Companion visit that teaches traditional hand embroidery skills to the highest level and www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk. we’re very proud to be teaching these skills to future generations.” For more information on RSN visit www.royal-needlework.org.uk.

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3LPJLZ[LY3HUL3LHTPUN[VU:WH*=// brand spanking new brand spanking new An exclusive round-up of the newest product offerings

Oh special days! Terrific tie-dye Hunkydory Crafts Tie-dye remains a popular has launched craft and is sported by the Special Days celebrities such as Rhianna – this luxury and Aaron Paul, and hailed topper collection as a fashion trend by makes sure your Vogue and Grazia. The cardmaking crafters high street is brimming are set to go, all with fashionable tie-dyed year long. With a garments on offer but tie- wonderful variety dye enthusiast and all-round of themed artwork, creative Lizzie King shows touching on all the you how to get great results special occasions in her new book throughout the Tie & Dye. Brighten up year, as well as other surprise celebrations that we love to make a your home or wardrobe with special card for – the amount of projects that can be made from projects such as statement this collection is incredible. T-shirts, dip-dye shoelaces, With stunning artwork dedicated to Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s cosmic babygros, Shibori Day, christenings, sympathy, along with friendship, thanks, and pillowcases, woven plant good luck themed sets, this cardmaking range will be a welcome hangers or a tropical addition to any papercraft stockist. bunting. Hunkydory is offering a fantastic money saving ‘bundle’ for The book covers different retailers, meaning you can stock the full collection, along with the tying techniques and dyes, coordinating inserts, little book of Special Days, paper pad and as well as advice on mixing Adorable Scorable Special Days selection, and make great savings. shades, choosing fabrics The bundle usually retails for more than £550 but it’s yours and washing instructions. for £180. Step-by-step instructions are provided and the projects Hunkydory Crafts are suitable for all levels of +44 (0)1772 272 575 skill and experience. Tie & [email protected] Dye (ISBN: 9781910904749) trade.hunkydorycrafts.co.uk retails for £12.99 and is published by Pavilion.

Pavilion Crafts + 44 (0)20 7462 1500 [email protected] www.pavilioncrafts.co.uk

Cross-stitch elegance Grace is the latest Elegance lady from John Clayton to be converted into cross-stitch. It measures 32cm x 38.5cm (12½in x 15in) and the colours are gorgeous. The cross-stitch comes with everything you need to complete the wonderful design and retails for £55.10.

Heritage Crafts +44 (0)1889 575 256 [email protected] www.hcrafts.com

craftfocus 17 brand spanking new

Embroidery classics RIOLIS has a new embroidery Still Life with Meadow Flowers and Roses after Van Gogh’s painting. Now you don’t have to go to the Kröller Müller Museum in the Netherlands to admire Vincent Van Gogh’s picture vase, needlecrafters can create their own masterpiece. This needlework kits contains 27 shades of cotton-stranded threads from Anchor. It’s quite easy to stitch, and uses just one technique – two-strand cross-stitching. The finished size of embroidery is 30cm x 30cm. Zingy style Sage is the latest contemporary fabric design from Bari J for Art RIOLIS is distributed in the UK by SoloCrafts Gallery Fabrics. Bari J plays homage to her home state, Arizona +44 (0)161 464 7313 through her lively maximalist style. This time she focuses on [email protected] the flora and fauna of the southwest region, and incorporates www.solocrafts.com wonderful images of desert critters and blooms and pairs them with vibrant colourful textural designs. Candy store yarns Juko Designs has created a Art Gallery Fabrics are distributed in the UK by Hantex range of Yarn Variety Hanks to +44 (0)1754 820 800 complement its weaving kits, the [email protected] colour coordinated hanks contain www.hantex.co.uk 15, two-metre lengths in a variety of different textured yarns. There are eight colourways, Aqua, Autumn, Blue, Cream, Earth, Green, Purple and Teal. In addition to weaving they are also perfect for embroidery, quilting, felting, freeform crochet, textile art and mixed media projects. The hanks are a cost effective way of buying yarns to add texture to your textile projects without having to buy lots of different balls of yarn. They come unpackaged so customers can feel the texture and can either be presented in long hanks to create a wall of colour or twisted to accommodate display space restrictions.

Juko Designs +44 (0)1942 492 775 [email protected] www.jukodesigns.co.uk

C’est beau beads The latest bead from French jewellery designer Annick Puca is the two-hole Ios par Puca. The beads measures 5.5mm x 2.5mm, and had rounded ends, which means it can be combined beautifully with the Arcos par Puca beads and the Minos par Puca beads. It also works well with the Kheops par Puca beads as this stylish Marcie bracelet by Puca shows. The four beads make up ‘Les Perles par Puca’. They offer many design possibilities and epitomise Parisian chic. The beads are available in a large range of the beautiful Czech colours and effects. The beads can be supplied loose, in hanging tubes and as starter selections. Downloadable projects from Annick Puca and an image gallery of her elegant designs are available on the website.

Creative Beadcraft is the distributor for Les Perles par Puca +44 (0)1494 786 924 [email protected] www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

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Woodland wonders Lavinia Stamps has released its latest range of woodland animal Paw-fect papercraft stamps. The magical, mystical clear polymer stamps deliver Which are you dog or cat lover? Whatever your favourite, life a sharp detailed image every time, and will take creativity to would certainly be boring without our four-legged friends. One another level. The stamps are a popular choice in mix media as of Kaisercraft’s latest collections is Paw-fect with a fun range of the range has an endless amount of flexibility. The stamps are cat and dog themed papers that are perfect for making cards, part of a versatile growing collection from Lavinia Stamps and are scrapbooking and other papercraft projects. impossible not to fall in love with the charming critters. Kaisercraft is distributed by Jones Crafts Lavinia Stamps +44 (0)115 978 1263 +44 (0)1824 710 691 [email protected] [email protected] www.jonesnottm.co.uk www.laviniastamps.co.uk

Stylish dressing Rise and shine The Karri dress is the latest Sparkles is WOW! sewing pattern from one Embossing Powders’ of the first independent own premium glitter, sewing pattern companies, but it’s not just any Megan Nielsen Patterns. glitter. It’s available in Karri is a multi-panelled, five bejewelled colours. princess seamed dress with Use them to mix with a fitted bodice and flared embossing powders skirt. Within this pattern, and create your very Meg has included lots of own sparkly embossing really interesting styles powder as they are so that it can either be heat-resistant; or stamp made from a single fabric and emboss with sticky or a number of different bonding powder and materials to create your sprinkle them on; use own original design. It’s perfect for double-sided adhesive using up all the little scraps of precious or glue pens, and throw them on embossing paste such as fabric you’ve been hoarding in your PaperArtsy Grunge Paste – the options are limitless. The Sparkle stash too. pots retail at £3. Megan Nielsen patterns are WOW! Embossing Powder distributed by Hantex +44 (0)870 777 8781 +44 (0)1754 820 800 [email protected] [email protected] www.wowembossingpowder.com www.hantex.co.uk

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Carving creations Quilter’s choice The new Essdee Blank’s Prairie Gate is by the same licensor that gave us Lighthouse block printing Wonders, this group features wildflowers in a rustic setting ‘Carve a Stamp’ including a panel and floral blocks. The Prairie Gate collection is essentials kit completed by a beautiful blue-sky pattern, as well as a brightly makes carving coloured stripe. The quilt backings that complement this range your own are Chromadots and stamps easy and Rose Toile in the fun. You can use white colour. the stamps to create your own EQS artwork, personalise letters, postcards, gift tags, greeting cards and +44 (0)116 271 0033 scrapbooks. The stamps can be used on wood, paper, card and www.eqsuk.com more. Instructions on how to use can be found on the reverse of the sleeve along with some design ideas inside to help you get started. The kit contains an inkpad, two carving tools, a handle with aluminum collar, five blank stamps and a leaflet featuring lots of Spring offer stamp design ideas. If you haven’t already tried Essdee Glue Dots +44 (0)156 260 787 groundbreaking [email protected] adhesives, there’s www.essdee.co.uk never been a better time to buy thanks to a new spring promotion, which might provide the excuse Stencil precision you’ve been looking for! West Design Sweet Poppy Products is offering 60 per cent off Stencils is the its popular range of glue dots rolls brand from The when you buy 18 or more rolls in Craft Station. The three different adhesive strengths. stencils are all laser The original Glue Dots adhesive cut metal stencils, rolls offer the widest range of which is distinctive adhesive formulas, including in the brand’s design unique products such as and quality. The end Pop Up Glue Dots. result is that you're The rolls can be used with the able to achieve high- company’s lightweight desktop end results, whether dispenser, which is compatible with all roll sizes and it’s papercraft, cake has been cleverly designed to give maximum flexibility. Featuring decorating or home décor. a curved, hard surface for pressing embellishments and other Sweet Poppy products include stencil mediums, satin glitters, materials directly onto the adhesive, the dispenser incorporates a mica powders and gilding flakes, which all reach the same high serrated edge for clean line cuts as well as two threading options to quality that is synonymous with the name. The company is just keep the roll securely wound and protected. The dispenser comes about to launch several new stencils due, which will be perfect for with a roll of 300 Mini glue dots free of charge. seasonal crafting. Glue Dots products are distributed by West Design Products The Craft Station +44 (0)1303 297 865 +44 (0)1775 527 442 [email protected] [email protected] www.westdesignproducts.co.uk www.sweet-poppy.com

craftfocus 23 THE WORLD’S LEADING SUGARCRAFT MAGAZINE

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Introducing to this years show bargain sale room. Full day workshop classes available 2nd & 3rd September 2017

For all enquiries, if you wish to exhibit or attend classes please contact: Yvonne on 07770 870093 or by email [email protected] shows, news and events

shows, news and events We update you on what’s happening with a round-up of the shows GIFTED IN BIRMINGHAM DIARY DATES Spring Fair is the AEF Pro Paris Hobby-X UK’s number one 3rd - 5th February, 2017 2nd - 5th March, 2017 tradeshow for gift and Exhibition Center Porte de Versailles, Paris Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg home, and this month Côté Salon Expo Trends will welcome more +33 (0)1 4002 9400 www.hobby-x.co.za than 60,000 visitors www.aefproparis.com through the doors of h+h Cologne Birmingham NEC, over the course of five days. Spring Fair 31st March - 2nd April, 2017 The show has been connecting people and 5th - 9th February, 2017 Cologne Exhibition Centre products for 40 years, and was officially NEC, Birmingham Koelnmesse opened by the Queen at the NEC in 1976. Ascential +49 1806 858 371 Spring Fair has a history of high standards +44 (0)203 033 2500 www.hh-cologne.com and now attracts a purchase power of £2.4 www.springfair.com billion, making it a must-do for more than London Stationery Show 2,500 exhibitors with all-important items and CHSI Stitches 25th – 26th Apri,l 2017 a must-see for buyers across independents, 19th - 21st February, 2017 Business Design Centre, London multiples and e-commerce. NEC, Birmingham Ocean Media Retail legend Mary Portas will be ICHF Events +44 (0)207 772 8461 presenting a keynote on the challenges facing +44 (0)1425 272 711 www.stationeryshow.co.uk independent retailers such as changing www.chsi.co.uk consumer behaviours, the economy, the digital revolution, and how your business POPULAR EXHIBITION can tackle them. This will be followed by an IN SOUTH AFRICA interactive Q&A session. Delve into this year’s Contemporary Capsule, which is the carefully Hobby-X was launched in South curated trend-led magazine for Spring Fair. Africa in 1998, and continues Here, you’ll discover the newest products and to be as popular as ever, the very latest in cutting-edge designs across attracting tens of thousands edited selections, inspired by the macro of visitors to every show. The WGSN trends. show promotes an innovative For more information visit the website marketing approach that targets www.springfair.com. both trade and consumers. This two-pronged approach enables exhibitors to target their marketing to the trade buyers, while generating brand awareness and building brand loyalty amongst consumers. To celebrate 20 years, the first show of the year kicks off at the Ticketpro Dome, Johannesburg from 2nd - 5th March. It’s a visual, tactile and creative feast with goodies for mosaic work, paper crafts, 3D printers, model cars and trains, wool, yarns and needlecrafts, books and magazines, scrapbooking, card-making equipment and supplies, beads and semi-precious stones, teddy bears, metal stamping, woodworking, laser cutting, chalk painting, leather work supplies, jewellery making, pewter, puzzles and much more. Whether you’re into hobbies and crafts for pleasure, passion or profit – chat to the experts and find out what products are best for your application, be inspired by the demos and ideas, hone your skills at the hands-on workshops, find everything you need to create stunning projects, or be amazed at how good crafting makes you feel. To find out more go to www.hobby-x.co.za.

craftfocus 25 shows, news and events

PARIS IN THE SPRINGTIME The French fair AEF Pro Paris is an annual event reserved A REPORTAGE ON SOME OF THE DESIGNER for craft professionals. MAKER SHOWS LAST YEAR Launched eight years Handmade at Kew –an International Contemporary Craft Event ago, it has today become Following on from last year’s success, Handmade in Britain returned to the ‘rendez-vous’ for craft the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew for the second edition of the four-day businesses in Europe. The craft spectacular, Handmade at Kew. Housed in an elegant outdoor show gathers wholesalers, pavilion next to the picturesque Kew Palace, played host to this distributors, importers, innovative, global craft fair in Handmade in Britain’s most ambitious manufacturers, publishers, event to date. Fast becoming London’s leading international craft designers in the fields of event, Handmade at Kew has found its perfect complement among textile design, wool, haberdashery, fabric, thread, embroidery, Decimus Burton’s glasshouses, a feat of Victorian engineering and patchwork, and machinery sewing as well as scrapbooking, beads, British craftsmanship. The event’s prime location in the heart of the cardboard, and decoration. gardens allowed visitors to soak up the delights of the world’s most This year, the show coincides with the Aiguille en Fete consumer famous botanic garden, whilst browsing, buying and commissioning show, which has been running for 14 years, and is for textile and work directly from internationally renowned craftspeople and artisans. DIY enthusiasts. Aiguille en Fete is an established consumer show Handmade at Kew grew with more than 200 UK and international concentrating on needlecrafts. It has 240 exhibitors that present their makers exhibiting an exceptional standard and variety of work from products, and feature new items to 40,000 craft aficionados. Columbia to Germany. Disciplines showcased included glass, ceramics, It’s hoped by running the shows together, it will give a complete jewellery, furniture, fashion accessories, sculptures and home textiles. vision of the market and trends – from wholesaler to consumer – Over 8,500 visitors came to see the show including many returning and reuniting the whole industry in one place. visitors. Buyers and galleries from the UK and abroad attended, Visit the show to meet with suppliers and manufacturers; French with key representatives from well-known UK based stores. The and international as well as creating professional and artistic event reached new audiences and introduced them to the world of contacts, find original products and discover upcoming trends and handmade craftsmanship. new materials to the market. For more information visit www.handmadeinbritain.co.uk. For more details visit www.aefproparis.com.

TRENDS, STRATEGIES AND KNOW-HOW FOR A The show opens its doors HANDMADE BUSINESS again for three days with Top décor trends for inside and out are on the programme under the everything revolving around motto ‘Urban Jungle – Indoor meets Outdoor’ for the international the creative scene with the trade fair for creative handicraft and hobby supplies, h+h cologne. The DIY themes sewing, knitting, show will include an array of summer outdoor oases, décor trends that crocheting, embroidery and emanate a holiday feeling as well as natural materials and florals, and crafting. With more than 370 visitors can pick up magnificent ideas for flowing borders between exhibitors from around 40 indoors and out, along with the aid of handmade accessories. countries already on board, they will be presenting the specialised Workshops include looking at new materials, styles and trade from all around the world with the latest products, collections, rediscovering old techniques. Learn which new products retailers can services and marketing strategies for the shops and wholesale trade. impress their customers with and which new or old techniques will An attractive benefit of the show is its exclusive supporting be high on the trend list for the forthcoming season. Choose between programme, which offers trade visitors know-how and trends as well an introduction to hand weaving, a macramé technique, crochet as plenty of inspiration for the creative handicraft business. Also a main with paper yarn, make a flower basket for culinary herbs or sew with attraction is the event area ‘my lovely living room.’ which is divided oilcloth. The creative courses can be booked via the Koelnmesse ticket up into the formats – exhibition, workshops and the Talk Sofa. On the shop for the first time this year at www.hh-cologne.de. Talk Sofa is all about visual merchandising tips for the presentation of Led by the designer, trend scout and consultant, Gabriela Kaiser goods. Karin Wahl, author, designer and trainer for visual marketing, from TRENDagentur, the art of product presentation workshop will offers trade visitors practice-related creative instructions as well as tell stories with shop decoration, where you can learn how customer answers to important questions on business success such as; When loyalty and how specialised shops works. “Product presentation is does a passer-by stop in front of a handicraft shop? What does a visitor more than just arranging pretty goods nicely – the customers want notice? What turns a potential customer into a buyer? Prominent trend to be impressed and inspired. Small, decorated scenes in the shop watches are also on the agenda from the likes of Anastasios Voulgaris window arouse the curiosity of new customers. Regular customers from Burda Style and Kathrin Behrens from Brigitte Kreativ, who will love being whisked away to other worlds to discover new products and inform visitors about current and potential industry trends. techniques,” the expert explains Gabriela. For more information visit www.hh-cologne.com.

26 craftfocus

shows, news and events

HANDMADE EDINBURGH – and online platforms. THE CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS & DESIGN FAIR Handmade Edinburgh Last October, Scotland’s elegant and historic capital city played host drew an enthusiastic to an exciting new craft event on the Scottish arts scene. Handmade response from both Edinburgh brought together the best contemporary craft makers visitors and exhibitors from Scotland and beyond in a three day shopping event at The Hub praising the high on the busy Royal Mile. Expertly curated by an experienced team at standard, variety and Handmade in Britain, the event demonstrated exceptional skill from innovation of the work more than 75 exhibitors working across an array of disciplines. on show, alongside The show offered visitors an original opportunity to watch live appreciation for the demonstrations, take part in interactive workshops and learn new beautiful setting and skills, meet talented craftspeople and shop for beautiful handmade warm and friendly atmosphere. products for fashion and interiors. “This has to be one of the best craft and design shows I have For a first year show, visitor numbers were high with more than visited. We don’t have any shows of this calibre in Scotland!” 2,400 shoppers attending. Handmade Edinburgh was well attended commented Alison Ellis. from a broad range of both retail and trade customers including For more information about plans for this year’s Handmade affluent consumers, local residents and visiting tourists as well as shows visit www.handmadeinbritain.co.uk. trade buyers from retail stores, galleries, independent boutiques

THE HANDMADE CONSUMER SHOW NEWS FAIR HEADS TO WHAT’S HAPPENING THIS SEASON: WARWICKSHIRE Sewing for Pleasure – a The Handmade Fair has just cornerstone of crafting announced its 2017 event line-up. The NEC will be brought to 2017 will not only see the fair return life with fantastic makes, to The Green at Hampton Court amazing bakes and quick Palace from 15th - 17th September, knitters this spring when but it also heads to Ragley in Sewing for Pleasure, Fashion Warwickshire for a new event & Embroidery, Hobbycrafts are between 12th - 14th May. joined by Cake International Each fair brings together Britain’s between 16th and 19th March. best handmade products, craft ICHF Events has teamed supplies and artisan foods, and up with the UK Hand Knitting invites craft enthusiasts and lovers Association (UK-HKA) to find the of all things handmade to come Nation’s Fastest Knitter again. and join in the action. The speed knitting competition The Ragley event will see Kirstie will start at the Stitching, Allsopp topping the bill on the Sewing & Hobbycrafts Show Friday, before handing over the taking place in Manchester reins to Liz Earle for the Saturday, from 2nd to 4th February, and and Patrick Grant hosting the continue its tour with heats at Sewing For Pleasure and Fashion & Sunday. The programme will Embroidery with Hobbycrafts at the NEC Birmingham in March and include live craft-offs from the the Stitching, Sewing & Hobbycrafts Show at ExCeL London in April. experts of Mollie Makes magazine, Q&As and demonstrations with The UK-HKA will also be running regional heats online so everyone some of the country’s best known makers, and the chance to take part can get involved. in hands-on workshops covering everything from willow weaving, With more than 30,000 visitors expected to flock to see more upholstery needle-felting and calligraphy. than 400 top craft and cake exhibitors at the NEC shows as well as a The event will feature more than 150 handpicked exhibitors each host of exciting competition pieces, features, experts and inspiring selling beautiful handmade products, materials and tools for visitors catwalk shows, it’s a show not to be missed. to make and up-cycle projects at home. With delicious food and drink For a timetable of ICHF Event shows go to www.ichfevents.co.uk thrown in visitors are sure to have a fabulous day out. and click on the ‘What’s On’ section. Tickets for the Ragley Fair are now on sale from www.thehandmadefair.com/ragley.

28 craftfocus BRITAIN’S BEST VALUE CARDS MAKING MAGAZINE

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shows, news and events shows, news and events

DESIRE JEWELLERY AND SILVERSMITHING FAIR RETURNS TO CHELSEA OLD TOWN HALL Desire Fair returns to Chelsea Old Town Hall between 3rd - 5th March. This stunning mixed media jewellery and silversmithing event is where visitors can purchase direct from contemporary designer makers selected from the best in the UK. The fair offers visitors a choice of around 90 individual jewellers and silversmiths who have been selected for their innovative craftsmanship and have a genuine passion for the work they create. Visitors can see and purchase from an exciting range from both emerging British talent as well as more established designer makers. Exhibitors include jewellers working in gold, silver, platinum, palladium, aluminium, bronze, copper, titanium, cellulose acetate and glass and incorporating gemstones, seaglass, buttons, pearls, glass, enamelwork, silk threads and beads into their work including silversmith Jen Ricketts who creates intricate hand-pierced functional silverware of city skylines. Opening times for the event are 10am – 6pm Friday, 10am – 5pm Saturday and Sunday. For further information visit the website www.desirefair.com. CONSUMER CALENDAR CRAFT4CRAFTERS Want to get your products in front of more 16th – 18th February 2017 customers? We list the best UK-based Westpoint Arena, Exeter consumer craft shows in the forthcoming www.craft4crafters.co.uk months: Craft4crafters (www.craft4crafters.co.uk): The Craft4Crafters show remains the perfect destination for craft fans to be inspired, find 16th - 18th Feb: Westpoint, Exeter crafting supplies, learn the latest trends, get wonderful ideas and pick up great craft bargains. 2017 promises to be another spectacular crafting extravaganza bringing its biggest Craft in Focus (www.craftinfocus.com): collection of traders, workshops and displays to the South West’s largest exhibition 3rd - 5th Mar: Desire Jewellery & Centre, Westpoint Arena in Exeter. Silversmithing, Chelsea, London With more than 170 leading crafting retailers from around the UK, an extensive workshop programme running over the three days and introducing new galleries and textile displays, Grosvenor Shows, patchwork & quilting makes the event one of the largest of its kind in the South West. shows (www.grosvenorshows.co.uk): Packed with new and popular features including the crafters café, embroidery advice clinic 17th - 19th Feb: Spring Quilt Festival, and gallery, textile zone, make and takes, paper and card demonstration area, stamping classes Edinburgh along with an extensive three-day workshop programme, art gallery, expert talks, as well as 24th - 26th Feb: Spring Quilt Festival, large craft, quilt and textile displays. Harrogate Meet national and local bespoke traders, who’ll help take the challenge out of finding all 3rd - 5th Mar: Spring Quilt Festival, Duxford those hard to find supplies, in fact you may find it hard to do everything in just one day. The 9th - 11th Mar: Stitch, Quilt & Creative Crafts, show is open every day between 10am and 5pm. Malvern For more information and advance ticket enquiries visit the website. 31st - 2nd Apr: Spring Quilt Festival, Exeter

ICHF shows (www.ichfevents.co.uk): 2nd - 4th Feb: The Stitching, Sewing & Hobbycrafts, EventCity, Manchester 2nd - 5th Feb: The Scottish Quilting Show, Stitching, Sewing & Hobbycrafts, SECC, Glasgow 16th - 19th Mar: Sewing for Pleasure, Fashion & Embroidery, Hobbycrafts, NEC, Birmingham

Upper Street Events (www.upperstreetevents.net): 29th Mar - 1st Apr: The WI Fair, Alexandra Palace, London 27th - 30th April: Country Living Spring Fair, London

craftfocus 31 Craft & Stitches Show Stand 12G21 show preview

back in Birmingham Get ready for the UK’s biggest trade event, CHSI Stitches. We preview what the show has to offer the independent craft retailer

craftfocus 33 back in Birmingham

For craft retailers, February is an inspiring month of new products, inspiring ideas and networking, courtesy of CHSI Stitches. This is ICHF Events’ flagship event and the UK’s leading trade show for the art, craft, needlecraft, fabric and hobby industry, CHSI Stitches first opened its doors in 1976, and moved to the NEC, Birmingham in 1986. The show has continually expanded since its early days to now host more than 200 international exhibitors and welcome over 8,000 retail buyers from across the world.

“CHSI Stitches welcomes a host of new exhibitors at the expanded show that now covers Halls 11 and 12 making it the biggest show ever.”

Retailer Prize Draw All retailers pre-registered for CHSI Stitches are entered into a free prize draw to win £1,000 each day of the show to spend with exhibitors. Registration for CHSI Stitches is free of charge. Anyone who has not attended the show in the last three years should visit www.chsi.co.uk to register.

FACT FILE Exhibitors have come from Europe, USA, New Zealand and South Africa. It’s the UK’s number one trade show for the art, craft, needlecraft, fabric and hobby industry.

CHSI Stitches 19th - 21st February, 2017 Hall 11 and 12, NEC, Birmingham +44(0)1425 272 711, [email protected] www.chsi.co.uk Opening Times: Sunday: 9am – 5pm, Monday and Tuesday: 9.30am – 4pm

34 craftfocus Visit us at Hobby & Stitch Stand L19

show preview

New and exciting The show boasts a host of new exhibitors showcasing their products at the NEC, Birmingham. Show organisers, ICHF Events is adding brand new national and international exhibitors to the number one trade show for the art, craft, needlecraft, fabric and hobby industries ensuring visitors get the widest possible choice of products from across the industry. Adam Elkins, ICHF Show Manager, says, “New exhibitors are flocking to CHSI Stitches this year to take advantage the event’s reputation as Europe’s leading trade show for the creative craft industry and its new layout covering two halls of the NEC. We’re thrilled to host some ‘never-seen-before’ companies and products at the show and are looking forward to the reaction from visitors in February.” Canadian craft fabric specialists Camelot Fabrics will be showcasing its fresh and exclusive selection of eclectic fabric designs and products by international artists as well as ranges featuring brands such as Marvel/DC Comics, Star Wars and Star Trek. One of Europe’s leading twine and string manufacturers Henry Winning & Company will be exhibiting at CHSI Stitches for the first time in 2017. A great British success story, producing quality twine and string for 135 years, the company will showcase its complete range of natural and synthetic twines in a huge variety of colours, sizes, thicknesses and specifications for a multitude of craft and gift uses. Other new British exhibitors include Makit with a huge range of threads for lace making and needlecrafts, and Paper Mill Direct showcasing quality paper, card and craft supplies. Netherlands-based Patchwork Promotions and Rhinetex will offer visitors ranges of Bright Sparks Pavilion designer fabrics, craft fabrics and patchwork accessories. From the USA, the Needleart companies: World team will share its passion for needle art with a range of beautiful, high quality • Beamers needlecraft products at affordable prices and offering 40 years of industry experience, RJR Fabrics, will showcase its range of quality cotton fabrics for quilters. • Beca Russell Designs • Corrine Lapierre • Craftique Oy • Flo-Jo • La Petite Boutique • Ottobre Design • Ragged Life • That’s Crafty! • The Make Arcade • THREADS Inkjet Printable Fabrics • Sew La Di Da Vintage

New Product Showcase Sponsored by Craft Focusmagazine, the New Product Showcase is a sneak preview of what is waiting inside the show. The glass-fronted window displays located at the entrances are a quick and easy look at new and exciting innovations from exhibitors. It’s an essential reference point for all visitors to the show. This year find the New Product Showcase in the entrance of Hall 12 and also a Textile showcase in the entrance of Hall 11.

craftfocus 39

Please visit us Craft, Hobby & Stitch stand H 10 - H 12 back in Birmingham

Education to look forward to at CHSI Stitches: Workshops CHSI Stitches offers more than 100 hours Focusing on Digital Marketing of workshops giving retailers the hands-on Visitors can familiarise themselves with the newest products and techniques in free experience, skills and knowledge of new workshops sessions, which run every day at the show alongside the hugely popular free products they need to sell craft to their business seminars reflecting market trends and offering modern retailers the latest advice customers. The workshops are delivered by a and information to support their businesses. host of crafting experts, and top names within By popular demand, social media guru Warren Knight returns with Think Digital the industry. Bookings do need to be made in First giving visitors a talk on how to make social media work for their business. Joanne advance (or on the day where space allows). Dewberry will also present digital marketing ideas to visitors based on her experience as For more information visit the CHSI website and an award winning blogger and designer of handmade fabric party bags. click on the education menu. Seminars Stay ahead of the game with ICHF Events’ super selection of business seminars, delivered Here’s an A-Z of what workshops, by some of the best keynote speakers in the industry to help improve your business. No pre- demonstrations and presentations are on booking is required to take advantage of this free expert advice. offer at this year’s show:

Here’s an A-Z of seminars WORKSHOPS on offer at this year’s show: • Back to basic with Kim Thiitichai and Laura • Creating a buzz on Instagram Strutt, Vliesline with Tilly Walnes, founder of • Blooming beautiful with PaperArtsy Tilly and the Buttons • Craft iron and adhesives with Stix2 • Growing your business with • Create & Craft’s Disney with Tattered Lace community with Jo Roe and Annette Smyth, from Craft of • Creating with Trimcraft Heart Community Business • Decoupage workshop with ExaClair • How a mastermind group • For the love of Stamps with Hunkydory Crafts can take you and your • Garden Gateway with PaperArtsy business to the next level • Mixed Media Mash Up with PaperArtsy with David Hyner, founder of • Mixed Media techniques with DecoArt Stretch Development • How to build your brand with Juliet Bernard, Managing Director, Bluebear PR • New fabric Glue Pen with Stix2 • How to make a great first impression with David Hyner, founder of Stretch Development • Pesky little Zinksi’s with PaperArtsy • Massive goals… because smart goals don’t work with David Hyner, founder of • Rag rugging for beginners with Ragged Life Stretch Development • Screen Sesnation with the Craft Channel • Mobile Design for e-commerce and instore EPoS systems with David Fairhurst, • Standing stones with PaperArtsy from Intelligent Retail • Stick weaving with Juko Designs • Optimise your website for Google with Nathan Stevens and David Fairhurst, • Tattered lace with Stephanie Weightmann from Intelligent Retail • Planning for business within the craft and hobby sector with Sarah Hurley and Craig De Souza, PRESENTATIONS AND DEMONSTRATIONS Executive Director of CHA-UK • Clock making with Neecraft • Public speaking to build reputation and brand with David Hyner, founder of Stretch Development • Crafting with printable fabrics from • Six steps to social media success with Warren Knight, Head of Think Digital First, and Digital • THREADS Inkjet Printable Fabrics Marketing Expert • Diamond Dotz with Needleart World • Visual merchandising – why bother? With Alan Springall, Chairman of British Display Society • DIY Style with DMC • Why should you have a blog alongside your craft business with Joanne Dewberry, • Lampshade making with Neecraft founder of Charlie Moo’s • Ready Set Sew with Korbond

42 craftfocus Sock Yarn Specialist

Presents a One-Stop Shop for all your Quilling needs

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Quilling Handbooks (Beginners, Advanced and Children) A Comprehensive range of Quilling kits for all ages and abilities, to create pictures, cards, gift boxes and mobiles. A wide range of Quilling papers in 4 different widths Quilling tools The Quilling Workboard

Please come and see our complete range on stand R14 at the ICHF Trade show www.pasttimesquilling.com

113a Broadway, Dufﬁeld, Belper, Derbyshire, DE56 4BW www.viridianyarn.com | [email protected] Tel No. +44(0)1332 840582 email: [email protected] tel: 0117 300 5244

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Royal School of Needlework to Craft Focus host Itch to Stitch area Stand 12J35 If you’re looking to stock needlework in your shop then a visit to the www.craftfocus.com Itch to Stitch area is a must. New for 2017, the show welcomes Anne And of course, don’t forget to come and see us on the Craft Focus Butcher, Head of Studio and Education of the prestigious Royal School stand for all the latest news and gossip from the craft and hobby of Needlework, who will be running this area. Anne has many years’ sector and to sign up for a regular copy of the magazine or any other experience in the needlework trade as a teacher, author and freelance trade publications in the KD Media Publishing portfolio. embroiderer. Along with her demonstrations, she’ll suggest ways to encourage your customers to rediscover needlecraft by running successful workshops in store, developing additional revenue from consumables and the up-selling of tools and equipment. Entaco, the home of John James needles, Madeira embroidery threads and Zweigart needlework fabrics are again sponsoring the Itch to Stitch area. Each company is recognised for offering exceptional quality embroidery materials.

Catwalk Creations A highlight of the show is the catwalk where exhibitors bring to life creations and products on stage from beads and buttons to yarns and fabric. This year, 11 companies will be walking the runway including yarn companies Lion Brand; fabric companies Jane Makower, Vlieseline and Threads Inkjet Printable Fabrics; Gütermann threads and patterns from Sew La Di Da Vintage and Crafter’s Companion. The catwalk show has been creatively bought together by contemporary dance Choreographer Chris Worrell with Silk Model Management, and kicks off on Sunday and Monday at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, and Tuesday at 11am and 1pm.

craftfocus 47 EXHIBITOR AND PRODUCT PROFILES Hantex Stand 11A21 Creative Products Distribution www.hantex.co.uk Stand 12A22 Hantex is a www.creative-distribution.co.uk wholesale-only Creative Products company supplying Distribution has been fabrics, patterns, established for seven haberdashery years and has a passion and associated and desire for crafting. products to stores With knowledge of in the UK and other more than 20 years EU countries. The of the industry, the emphasis is very company travels the much on modern world to bring a wide sewing including dressmaking and quilting. variety of innovative and At this year’s show, the company will be showcasing new concepts from high quality branded Art Gallery Fabrics including Rayon. In addition, there are new fabric ranges products that offer value from Cloud9 Fabrics and Monaluna fabrics will be introduced to the UK for for money. The company distributes the complete range of Beacon the first time. Adhesives together with a wide range of Modular Origami Kits, Hantex quite possibly has the largest selection of independent patterns Origami Sheets and Odif sprays. available and 2017 brings the launch of new lines from Green Bee, Sew Creative Products Distribution pride themselves on offering To Grow and Sewing Workshop. The range of interfacings and waddings excellent customer service, with a low carriage paid order value, and continues to grow with the introduction of Legacy products along with Soft only one box minimum for orders, offering great support and fast and Stable By Annies. delivery with next working day as standard.

Cygnet King Cole Stand 11A22 Stand 12D24 www.cygnetyarns.com www.kingcole.co.uk Established in King Cole is a family 2004, Cygnet business, driven by Yarns has gone strong traditional values from strength and a dedication to to strength, the yarn sector of the becoming a industry. The company familiar name in is both competitive and the industry and influential and always a firm favourite with the benefit to its amongst hand customers foremost. knitters and Established in 1935, crocheters and King Cole continues is committed to innovate in yarn to providing production, design excellent quality support and point of at unbeatable sale materials. prices. This year the Cygnet stand has an English country garden A move to the current theme, which incorporates yarn from every one of its ranges. The premises in 2014 helped new Utopia and Pure Baby ranges will be on display. Cygnet offers to consolidate its next day delivery on all cash orders, as well as an easily achievable position as one of the best stocked suppliers in the field, offering a stock, minimum order. order and delivery service that’s second to none.

48 craftfocus Stencils of Distinction and Quality Sweet Poppy Stencils 2017 New Designs now available www.sweet-poppy.com 44 (0)1775 527442 • [email protected] CHSI stand 12F08

Tel: 01756 703670 or email: [email protected] www.kingcole.com

Bothy Threads - 2017 Spring

Order online at www.cygnetyarns.com 01274 743374 [email protected]

The Home of Happy Stitching!

' $+Ǝ'# #&;(;&+ with Deﬂ ecto’s innovative product range marketed to the art, craft and education industry.

Following our successful product launch at the CHSI Stitches show, you can now exclusively purchase our Innovative Caddy Organiser from createandcraft.tv.

You can also visit our Amazon page at www.amazon.co.uk/deﬂ ecto for all other products launched at the show!

To ﬁ nd out more visit www.deﬂ ecto-europe.com or call 01633 280123 show preview

EXHIBITOR AND PRODUCT PROFILES Vliesline Corinne Lapierre Stand 12B02 Stand BS10 www.vlieseline.com www.corinnelapierre.co.uk With a long tradition of innovation Corinne Lapierre designs and creativity Vilene has become felt sewing kits with synonymous with quality retro, woodland and interlinings for all those with a Scandinavian themes passion for sewing, tailoring, to inspire crafters of dressmaking and leading edge all abilities, including textile design. Serving customers beginners and those all over the world for more than 60 looking for an original years and offering the highest level gift. Lovingly assembled of uncompromised technology, Vlieseline/Vilene was first launched into in Yorkshire, the kits the market in the early ’50s and has become the essential interlining for all are presented in a kinds of applications. signature craft box with In the UK under Vilene, in Northern Europe under Vlieseline and in window and contain everything needed for the project including the Southern Europe under Fliselina, all three brands belong to Freudenberg, luxuriously soft wool-mix felt. the founding German company. However, since the market has become The company is launching new designs at the show including the global and Freudenberg has gone back to its roots it promotes under the Felt Rocking Horse kit, which has been shortlisted as Gift of the Year one brand name, Vlieseline. 2017 by the Giftware Association. All kits retail between £6 and £18.

Crafter’s Companion Groves Stands 12A48, 12B17 and 12B22 Stand 12C02 and 12C03 www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk www.grovesltd.co.uk Established in 2005 To accommodate by Sara Davies Groves ever- from her university growing stable bedroom, Crafter’s of brands, the Companion is one of company will be the leading players in exhibiting its ranges the UK’s papercraft on two stands. The market. The new Bridal, Tilda, company design, Milward, Anchor, manufacture and Coats, Opti, Patons distribute innovative and Regia ranges crafting tools and will be shown, materials, and has in addition to its a number of brands existing brands in the papercraft, that cater to the art and sewing haberdashery, sectors, with names including Die’sire, Spectrum Noir and Debbie Shore. knitting, patchwork, Everything it does is with the aim of making crafting fun and simple. quilting and craft The new romantic Shabby Chic collection is the latest release from markets. The new Sara’s Signature range. It features gorgeous floral and lace designs in 2017 Hobbygift a vintage pastel colourway, making it perfect for a range of different collection is papercraft projects, from Valentine’s and wedding cards to feminine trend-led and reflects the rose gold products found on the high street, birthday and friendship makes. The collection includes a range of dies, including knitting pins, and crochet cases filled with the beautiful embossing folders, a stamp set and 6in x 6in paper pad. coloured pins and hooks.

craftfocus 53 back in Birmingham

EXHIBITOR AND PRODUCT PROFILES Needcraft Stand12A40 Hawthorn Handmade www.needcraft.co.uk Stand 12F12 Needcraft kits are www.hawthornhandmade.co.uk manufactured in the UK Hawthorn Handmade by Dannells, which is crafts kits are a dynamic design and designed and made in manufacturing family Britain for beginners business and has been in and beyond. The business for more than company has a 35 years. Dannell’s first brought the seminal Needcraft Lampshade kits to beautiful range of CHSI Stitches in 2014, where they proved hugely popular. needle felting, crochet The company has returned each year with a growing range of and embroidery kits, inspirational products, which allow customers to make the soft furnishing which have all been from their choice of fabric or paper. The range now includes lampshades, put together by hand. bins, lanterns, clocks, lampbases and the new retro freestanding floor and British wool, DMC table lampmaking kits. The Needcraft kits are manufactured in a variety threads and detailed of formats to suit every business and enable easy stocking including retail instructions help trade, manufacturing and workshop packs. The company will be offering make the kits best special show discounts. sellers in shops across the UK. Designer Stephanie Carswell’s creations are inspired by the countryside surrounding its rural Dorset studio, as well as beautiful colours, creative patterns and the desire to help people learn a new skill and have fun doing so. The new designs include unicorns, cats and bears (although hopefully no bears found in Dorset). The easy-to- use website makes ordering a doddle with a low minimum order and no pack sizes.

Past Time Quilling Stand 12R14 www.pasttimesquilling.com Past Times Quilling is a small family business based in Derbyshire where the company has been producing quilling products for Intelligent Retail more than 30 years. Past Times Stand 12G08 can offer a comprehensive range www.intelligentretail.co.uk of kits, books, papers and tools, Intelligent Retail will be at the show offering the best-of-breed suitable for all ages and abilities, eCommerce websites that its experts can design and implement for and create its own designs and your website, as well as the ability to link it to a Connect till in your manufacturing here in the UK. shop – making it so easy to sell in-store and sell online. The company Quilling is increasing in popularity, has hundreds of retailers selling across store and web successfully. and the company will be very “You only do things once. It’s beautifully simple, and you work happy to help retailers put together efficiently to increase profits with central stock control and reports,” a selection of products to add to says Intelligent Retail. your current craft range.

54 craftfocus

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EXHIBITOR AND PRODUCT PROFILES

ExaClair EQS UK Stand J05 Stand 12J28 www.exaclair.co.uk www.eqsuk.com ExaClair is the UK supplier of Decopatch, Clairefontaine, Avenue Mandarine For the first time since 2010, EQS is and Maildor. The company will exhibit showstoppers from Decopatch’s exhibiting at CHSI Stitches 2017. EQS will extra-large animal and object range at this year’s show, and taking centre be exhibiting in partnership with leading stage will be a magnificent lion, standing 117cm tall, as well as the new German thread manufacturer, Amann stately soldier, regally towering above the rest at more than 1.5m, and a Mettler. Come and visit the stand, where well-dressed, 70cm-tall penguin – all decorated using Decopatch’s range of the company more than 300 papers. will have a large New home décor papers, inspired by the latest home furniture designs selection of its trends, will show their suitability for contemporary and stylish projects best sellers, as in and around the home. The fun and celebratory New Year range, with well as some opulent motifs in gold, purple and peacock-feathers demonstrate how exciting new lines. party decorations and props can be transformed to fantastic effect. The company will also be running workshops at the show, demonstrating how fun, easy and accessible the craft is. Other products on display include Maildor’s popular stickers, Avenue Mandarine’s diverse range of children’s crafting activities and Clairefontaine’s Handicraft products.

Hunkydory Crafts Stand 12D04 trade.hunkydorycrafts.co.uk Hunkydory Crafts is a family-run business based in Preston, Lancashire, where the company design and manufacture top quality, innovative products for paper crafters across the world. The company Deflecto is renowned across Stand 12D11 the industry for quality www.deflecto-europe.com artwork, detail, intricate Deflecto is a global manufacturer with sites in UK, China, Canada die cutting and foiling and the US. The company has a long history of creatively applying and its passion and solutions across different business channels. Back in the ’60s, an creativity throughout the product design. imaginative Deflecto employee flipped the company’s patented air New for 2017 is the Special Days collection, with 20 toppers, co-ordinating deflection device upside down and started marketing it as an office products that cover every occasion, Special Days will see you and your supply organiser, and it’s that type of creative thinking which has customers through the full year. Retailers and crafters alike have always loved characterised Deflecto ever since. Based in Newport South Wales, the Mirri card and now Hunkydory Crafts bring you Mirri Magic as well as Deflecto has more than 50 years manufacturing experience. Craft the perfect scoreboard, the Adorable Scoreboard– to find out more visit the storage is a new exciting area of development for the company, and is stand. The company looks forward to working with retailers in 2017 and is the latest sector to apply the innovative, creative qualities that make keen to develop strong working relationships with retail trade partners. Deflecto a highly regarded quality manufacturer.

craftfocus 57 back in Birmingham

EXHIBITOR AND PRODUCT PROFILES

Rico Design GmbH Stand 12G12 Craft Buddy www.rico-design.de Stand 12A05 The world of Rico Design is a www.crystalcardkit.com colourful one. The company has Craft Buddy has become new ideas for craft, stitching, renowned for bringing knitting, sewing, jewellery innovative craft supplies and asks everyday how craft to the UK market. Craft customers can have even Buddy has brought beautiful more fun with its products. All sparkling papers and a wide pieces are original and created range of crafting accessories using Rico’s extensive in-house to the UK market for design team and can’t be found more than five years, and anywhere else. The company now joins forces with TV develops fantastic ideas and personality Dawn Bibby. works with its suppliers to Director Gary Wadhwani achieve high quality, timely says, “We’re delighted to development and idea be working with Dawn on delivery. All products are beautifully packaged, with clean brand lines and a whole range of products presented for ease of retail purchase. from dies, jewels, stamps, crystal card kits, papercraft and other items. Dawn brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to our product development.” Dawn will be showcasing and demonstrating the range on the Craft Buddy stand, along with other exciting new concepts, that the company is launching to the retailers.

AFCI.UK Stand 12K38 cha-uk.co.uk AFCI.UK (Association for Creative Industries) – formally CHA-UK – is the cornerstone of the UK Creative, Craft and Hobby Industry. Offering membership connections, engagement, research, education, support and understanding. All members have access to a private and confidential line to discuss all aspects of their business and get the help they need to be Flo-Jo successful. Whether you are a table top start-up, blogger, designer, teacher, Stand BS12 online store, retailer, wholesaler, manufacture, sales agent, supplier, www.flo-joboutique.co.uk publisher or wanting to know more about this vibrant and growing Established 12 years ago by Delia and Erika, Flo-Jo is an independent £3.4 billion industry, join the AFCI.UK and be part of a global associations. fabric and haberdashery shop and sewing workshop in Bristol. Developing from a love of fabric and sewing, in 2010 the business launched the original Knicker Making Kit. An established bestseller the knicker kit has a number of regular UK stockists. Known for combining gorgeous fabrics with clear design and foolproof instructions, the new products are aimed at the adult beginner sewer or those wanting to get back into making. Packaged to make the perfect gift for creative friends their kits include quality fabrics, and reusable patterns. This year, the company shows its expanded range of sewing kits, sewing patterns and specialist haberdashery.

58 craftfocus back in Birmingham

EXHIBITOR AND PRODUCT PROFILES Search Press Grafix Stand 12J16 Stand 12E23 www.searchpress.com www.grafixarts.com Search Press is the award winning For more than 50 years, leading UK art and craft Grafix has been the leader book publisher, specialising in providing quality in needlecraft, textiles, plastic films to the art, general crafts and fine art. craft, graphics, drafting Independent and family and design communities. owned since 1970, the The use of the films has company creates high changed, however, Grafix’s quality, inspirational craft commitment to deliver books, with passion and flair, its customers with the selling and distributing to information and materials they need remains as strong as ever. The retailers around the world. company continues to offer new and innovative uses for the standard Launching at the show plastic films, as well as the creation of new products to serve the is Sue Stratford’s eagerly customers’ needs. Grafix will showcasing the following: Shrink Film, awaited Knit Me, Dress Me, Love Me. Other best selling titles include Crochet Impress Print Media, Artist-tac, Rub-Onz, Computer Grafix, Metallic Foil Yourself Calm by Carmen Heffernan;Stitched Shibori by Jane Callender; Board, Clear-Lay, Dura-Lar, Cling, Acetate and New Essentials. 200 Fun Things to Knit by Lesley Stanfield & Jessica Polka; 200 Things to Crochet by Lesley Stanfield & Betty Barnden; Stitch Fabric & Thread by Empee Silk Fabrics Elizabeth Healey; Air Dry Clay by Fay de Winter; Fold & Cut by Naomi Shiek. Stand 11D12 www.wholesalefabrics.co.uk Empee Silk Fabrics is best known for its wide variety of fabrics. In addition to a large number of regular quantities, the company stocks a huge range of one-off, and often one-of-a-kind fabrics offered at incredible prices. Given the fall in the value of the pound and resulting price increases, this is the ideal opportunity to take advantage of these special offers. Among regular stocks are plain polycottons and cottons, satins, organzas, chiffons, dress nets, veilings, felts, fleeces, furs and more – all in a broad range of colours. Very popular with craft customers are the cuddle fleeces, in plain and printed, and including some exciting new designs. Empee also specialises in cotton and polycotton prints, particularly floral and children’s prints, which are constantly renewed.

Mouseloft Stand 12A03 www.mouseloft.co.uk Mouseloft is a quality British company celebrating its 21st anniversary, specialising in small counted cross-stitch kits. New this year, Quicklets is a range using 11-count aida and with no backstitch. It’s aimed at beginners because backstitch can sometimes be a bit daunting. There are eight colourful designs in the range, which fit into the 3in a good quality wooden hoop supplied with the kit. The embroidery hoops are very much on-trend as frames and look great on your wall. Also the ever-popular Stitchlets range has some new designs including a flamingo, pug and three colourful feathers.

60 craftfocus Fabric Freedom design and print a unique and superb range of superior quality 100% cotton fabrics, created especially for patchwork and quilting.

Fabric freedom are a British company with our design studio based in the UK and extensive warehousing in Bradford. We supply and sell through retailers, manufacturers and international distribution companies only but our website is also available to give you an opportunity to view our latest designs and help with individual customer selections. Quilters will be delighted to see our very wide range of co-ordinated prints, as well as our batiks, solids and unique blending fabrics.

Fabric Freedom also have exciting quilts for you to enjoy with free patterns, inspired by most of our collections. We aim to produce the very best quality cotton fabrics available that are great for use in all quilting and craft projects. Fabric Freedom are constantly adding new and exciting designs to our range of fabrics and we welcome you to our website, whether for the fi rst time or as a regular user.

www.fabricfreedom.co.uk | 01274 308515 | [email protected]

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EXHIBITOR AND PRODUCT PROFILES PaperArtsy Viridian Stand 12G01-12G02 Stand 12J32 www.paperartsy.co.uk www.viridianyarn.com PaperArtsy has much to Viridian is a customer offer avid papercrafters, focused supplier of knitting, with numerous new crochet and haberdashery products from 14 of products. The company is a its designer-led stamp long-standing independent collections for 2017, all made in the UK. The ranges include a Medieval distributor for Opal Sock collage style from design icon Lynne Perella; abstract layers from Seth Yarn, Knit Pro, Clover, Apter and Lin Brown; and modern retro by Tracy Scott and Kim Dellow. Eucalan no rinse laundry New illustrator Elena has quirky house-flowers that are simply fantastic. wash, Aumuller Knitting and Journallers will love Emma Godfrey’s word-layers and the wildflowers Sewing Storage Solutions. from Kay Carley are a delight, plus more hand-drawn beauties from Jo Viridian regard itself Firth-Young and 12 new infusions, eight new Fresco Chalk paints, and 20 as a close knit family (excuse the pun), and has a customer-first new stencils. Plus the company has a new designer onboard, Scrapcosy. philosophy, providing quality products and service. All customers receive personal account management, no call centre set up, so Viridian know the needs of each individual customer, and offer a next working day delivery on orders received before 1pm. Look out for Viridian’s Demo Den on stand 12K40 too!

Bothy Threads Stand 12A01 www.bothythreads.com For more than 21 years, Bothy Threads has developed exciting collections of House of Alistair crossstitch, blackwork and tapestry kits, using a wide range of artists to offer Stand 12G21 a diverse and contemporary range, which is refreshed with quarterly releases. www.houseofalistair.com The company uses top quality materials such as Zweigart fabrics, House of Alistair (HoA) is a contemporary craft brand, which offers Madeira threads and Appleton wools. On show will be more from the products created with three steps in mind – quality, purpose and Wrendale collection, as well as the launch of Beryl Cook and Rosina design. Every product has been designed by its designer Alistair Wachtmeister designs. Another exciting development is the Gorjuss and Macdonald, and the range is made up of kits and sewing accessories Fairy Tale designs, which use new printed fabrics. Tapestry kits have that will appeal to a wide range of customers, and crosses into lots proved very strong over the last year, and the company has expanded the of different crafting areas – many of which use Liberty fabrics. HoA William Morris range, and also they’ve added some modern ‘bucks the trend’ by allowing the retailer to obtain a much higher cushion designs. margin than simply double.

craftfocus 63 getting noticed Julie Bonnar talks to Paul Smith, Managing Direct of Pajatex, about its new marketing function to help small businesses get seen

You recently set up the company Pajatec – tell us why you’ve set it up and how your experience running Hantex influenced this decision? At Hantex, we were aware that marketing and brand awareness were playing an ever- increasing role in our distribution function. We’ve always selected the products and brands we represent carefully to ensure they would work for us as a distributor. However, there are some great brands who approached us that we couldn’t offer distribution for, but would benefit from our marketing function. With this in mind, we launched our sister company, Pajatec Ltd, so we can represent brands who may already have physical distribution in place, provided of course, there’s no conflict of interest.

Concentrating on the marketing side of distribution, what services can you provide small businesses? Marketing is often perceived to be expensive with unpredictable and un-measurable results. Pajatec offers a menu based list of services that allows companies of any size to gain access to more than 8,000 independent retailers in both the UK and mainland Europe, at a cost that’s affordable, whilst also being effective. Put simply, this means that companies can instantly place their product in front of these retailers with services, which include: • Product placement on both the existing and new Hantex web platforms (which we’ll be launching this spring). • Targeted emailing within Hantex updates and as standalone mailings. • Advert preparation and placement in media, Tell us why you believe the traditional which is appropriate to the brand or product. The key to many of the above services is distribution model often overlooks the • Colour flyer design and printing. the use of analytics to measure effectiveness, importance of brand awareness? • Use of our social media and focus groups to and we can do this with printed media, as The world of retailing has changed so much assess how well a product might be received well as digital. This can be coupled with in recent years, nowhere more so than in the along with retailer feedback. 17 years of data from Hantex that helps creative sector. That inevitably means the • Inclusion within Hantex products at trade us to identify potential retailer hotspots in a way products are distributed is also changing. shows and presentations to customers. particular market. Some manufacturers prefer not to use

64 craftfocus company profile

Do clients need to have products You have a great track record in helping distributed by Hantex? US companies, especially the indie sewing No, we do currently offer some of the brands pattern brands. What’s the secret to your that we work with at Hantex additional success? services services through Pajatec, but we’re Obviously for commercial reasons, we can’t careful to ensure that there is no conflict of go into too much detail about the way we interest with existing brands. successfully market brands, but two areas that are very important to us are: Currently, who are your clients? • Understanding the needs and requirements Pajatec now carries out additional specialist, of each brand rather than using a ‘one-size fits distributors and deliver directly to shops, marketing for some of the existing brands all’ approach. This means a campaign tailored while others expect more from their that Hantex represent. Originally Pajatec to their requirements and this is the case for existing distributors. was planned to launch in spring 2017, but a marketing done by Hantex as well as Pajatec. Part of this extra requirement is the need for number of clients including Sew Wardrobe, • The old adage that ‘50 per cent of distributors to understand and promote the the pattern company owned by Alison Smith advertising works but no-one knows which brands they work with. Perhaps this is having MBE, approached us, and we’ve already 50 per cent’ no longer needs to be the case. an inevitable disruptive effect on the existing commenced work with these clients earlier With analytics embedded into virtually all model, but for sure change is happening and than expected. our advertising and marketing procedures, will continue. we’re now able to make decisions and evolve campaigns based on collected data. Additionally, we’re now starting to use software to recognise patterns in data that will help us, and our clients, to get the best out of their marketing in the future. As you say, we have been particularly successful in working with pattern brands over the past year, but I think the same principles and values also extend to the other products we distribute such as fabric and sewing notions.

Do you have any new clients coming onboard that you can tell us about? Yes and no. We have a number of exciting projects for 2017 but unfortunately at this time, we cannot say too much but there’s much more to come!

Pajatec +44 (0)1754 820 800 www.pajatec.com

craftfocus 65 buying into the trends

Michael O’Connor, PR & Marketing expert from Grey Sergeant, explains how to use trends to influence your business

For many businesses, especially those in page, the search bar, and within guided Twitter’s algorithm has drastically improved the creative industry, it’s important to stay search. All are easy accessible and full of over time to show you trending contents that on top of consumer trends. Understanding relevant information. it thinks is most relevant to you or your brand. what customers are looking at, talking about, searching for, and even buying will Google+ What’s Hot Facebook trending – Taking into help you target your product ranges and This page offers you different ways to explore consideration Facebook’s position as the top brand messaging. Staying ahead of the trending content or relevant communities: social network in the world with more than curve is always going to be an advantage. 1.35 billion active users every month – you Google trends – One of the most have to believe that it will provide you an So how do you find out what’s trending? undervalued yet best tools for tracking accurate count on what topics or content Here are some of the tools I use to keep trending content and topics across the are trending. me ‘in the know’ with what consumers are internet – Google Trends looks at the trends in interested in: Google searches around the world. Listen to others within the industry It’s also important to see what the designers Pinterest Twitter trending – Twitter is one of the top and other craft experts are doing. I caught This is by far my favourite for the craft sector. resources for discovering trending content up with four leading influencers in the craft There are three places you can find popular online. Not only can you look at what’s being industry to see what to expect in their relevant and trending topics on Pinterest: the popular said around any given hashtag or keyword, craft categories for this year:

66 craftfocus business advice 67 C craftfocus ing

Pastel colours dominate with softer tones with softer dominate colours Pastel Mixed media is becoming more popular more is becoming media Mixed use of fabrics, will see more This year 3D more with Die cutting moves on too vibrant bow or embellishment,you a gives vibrant combination. perfect such as buttermilk, salmon, olive with vibrant during the summer appear colours tropical as ocean, such palettes months with vibrant with turquoise, purples, deep blues and that colours earthy a twist of deep muted effective simple yet the more to will appeal add the wow styling – all will presentation and presentation.” gift wrapping to factor Dawn Bibby Queen of crafting and TV presenter on and TV presenter crafting Queen of Channel The Craft dawnbibbycrafting.blogspot.co.uk times “Exciting in the world ahead craft. of paper an was Last year with year interesting many consumers their side stepping skills, crafting paper and utilising the within techniques projects. home décor to the confidence getting with consumers Up-cycling work on MDF wood and canvases. prevalent. and is more is making a comeback with a vibrant paper crafting in effects textural and of South American portfolio colour gold, real, artwork.Mexican Purple, orange, be popular colours. Bling to set are fuchsia further. and crystal art will move on a step gold, with rose loving sparkle certainly We’re platinum as well as other metallic chrome, will also be popular. effects flowers, and paper creations, work and kinetic big.” are and origami dimensional crafts,

Combine this with better edible colours, edible colours, Combine this with better will continue and edible ‘fabric’ Edible lace florals guard also see striking avant We’ll Last year saw a Last year will and stamping Doodling, colouring knitted patterns, distressed effects, marble, marble, effects, distressed patterns, knitted name it, – you be pleats if it can honeycomb, done in sugarpaste. in and we’re materials, and new grade food designs. of spectacular a year for and endless range artists more give cake to to continues paper possibilities while wafer cakes. dimension to and delicate give a fresh twist on artists put their own modern as cake Painted flower techniques. sugar traditional Decorators still on the rise as Cake are cakes their and into ‘art’ more incorporating are is Cake the metallics. forget not work. And let’s shine in 2017.” to going definitely Gift-wrapping expert and TV presenter Gift-wrapping www.giftwrappingcourses.co.uk as well and craft “Art influences as fashion up and coming are within the trends and gift presentation industry. wrapping for massive return and this paper, Kraft continue to is set tropical and vibrant tones with pastel coupled Kraft on in the year. later emerging colours an create to gives you a blank canvas paper styles. of gift-wrapping array finished personal wonderful not only create nurture to but the opportunity presentation at the same and destress your creativity colour of range comes in a paper time. Kraft with brown. not only stuck options so you’re portrays Kraft of brown the beauty However, and authentic presence natural an organic, and, when finished with a your wrapping to Neelam Meetcha contestant contestant

Michael O’Connor is a partner at Grey Sergeant specialising in marketing communications and PR in the craft and hobby industry. and PR in the craft communications specialising in marketing at Grey Sergeant Michael O’Connor is a partner market social media, digital media relations, businesses through planning and promotes advice, strategic provides Grey Sergeant and events. For more information, get in contact with [email protected]. with in contact get information, and events. more For The new black is blue this year and will be The new black is blue this year “So what’s trending trending “So what’s continue cake and can the creative raise to is my Texture bar? when buzzword cake to it comes with decorating bark, wood texture, Leading cake decorating expert in the UK expert decorating cake Leading www.rosiecakediva.com Rosie Cake-Diva Rosie Jenniffer Taylor Jenniffer the colour craze for interior design as well design as well interior for craze the colour spectrum of with its tonal as the catwalk grey and smokey denims, heavy washed-out vivid blues. to denim and corduroy, like fabrics Textured accompaniment to will be the perfect velvet sleeve Check out my trend. the dramatic uk.pinterest.com/jennibob82/ board Pinterest inspiration.” more for trendy-2017/ “The theme this year “The theme this year be big and to is going dressmakers, blue. For be to sleeves going are point such the focal cape, as bell, bishop, peasant butterfly, and mutton-shaped sleeves and the bigger We’re the better. see these dramatically to starting already our high street shaped sleeves into creep time before of only a matter so it’s fashion, or indie sewing seeing commercial we start too. appear patterns The Great British Sewing Bee Sewing British The Great Sewing the new for and TV presenter TV channel Quarter www.jenniffertaylor.co.uk Wholesale Haberdashery Suppliers

Our huge range includes Beads, Trimmings, Lace, Buttons, Ribbon, Sequins, Diamantes, Motifs, Zips, Cords, Thread, Masks, Feathers, Flowers, Bridal, Lingerie Accessories, Craft, Haberdashery, and much, much more...

We have 50% reductions and lots of offers on the website, right now. Go to www.mcourts.co.uk for fantastic deals and to see our range of half price brooches, fringes and craft bows.

31 Commercial Road, Edmonton, London N18 1TP Tel: 0208 884 0999 Fax: 0208 884 4666 Email: [email protected] www.mcourts.co.uk

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Taylors Supplies Haberdashery wholesale, Augustus Street, off Empire Street, Cheethamhill, Manchester, Greater Manchester M3 1HZ S TaylorsSupplies S

TTaylors Supplies 0161 834 0329 www.taylors-supplies.co.uk www.taylorssupplies.co.uk TTaylors Supplies [email protected]

Adhesives, glues, all essentials range, all sewing essentials, arts & craft s, beads & jewellery accessories, bias bindings, bits and bobs for craft ing, bows and ribbonS fl owers, bridal, buttons, card craft , care and repair, clothing trimmings, dance accessories, crochet hooks and yarn, curtain tapes, dress making papers, dress shields, dylon dyes and accessories, elastics, ambroidery, tapestry, aida, eyelets, fabric marker pens and chalk, feathers, fabric, fasening clips, felt, fi bre fi lling and wadding (toy fi ll), glitter, furnishing, hand sewing needles, hemming and fusible webs, hook fasteners, hook & loop (velcro), interfacing, knitting patterns, knitting pinks & accessories, kitting yarns, knitting yarn robin collection, lace & trimmings, lingerie accessories, machine bobbin (spools), machine embroider threads, machine needles, machine sewing accesories, packaging, patchwork & quilting, pins and safety pins, piping cords, ribbon & double satin, ribbons fancy, rotary cutters & matts, scissors, sequins spangles card embelishments, sewing aids, sewing threads, sewing travel kits, tapes webbings, tape measures & rules, thimbles, threaders & accesories, toys & accesories, zips... T& many more fantastic wholesale products! sewing modern sewers What’s trending in the world of sewing and stitching, and why the younger generations are now enjoying sewing more than ever

Sew your own stylish clothes Dressmaking has had a bit of a resurgence, and sewers can’t seem to get enough of the sewing pattern. The independent sewing brands have certainly been in the headlines in the last few years, with more designs on the way for 2017.

Here are a few of the latest patterns to the market that will become wardrobe staples:

Cashmerette The Turner Dress pattern from Cashmerette caters for the plus size sewer. It’s a beginner-friendly knit pattern or a quick one-night sew for more advanced stitchers, which is sure to become an everyday staple in any sewer’s wardrobe. With a lined bodice, curve-friendly V-neck, softly flared skirt, and three sleeve lengths, it’s bund to be a hit.

HOT OFF PRESS... Closet Case Patterns Hantex quite possibly has the largest selection of The Ebony knit dress and T-shirt sewing independent patterns available and 2017 brings the pattern has just been released by Closet launch of new lines from Green Bee, Sew To Grow and Case Patterns. Those sewists wanting to Sewing Workshop, which is a contemporary fashion- make the latest high street styles will love focused pattern label. this elegant basic. Make a swingy knit dress Closet Case Patterns and Cashemerette are both or modern cropped top, with a choice of distributed in the UK by Hantex. scoop or jewel neckline, and long or three- quarter length sleeves. For the ultimate leggings companion, make an Ebony tunic, with a cascading hem and short raglan sleeves. All necklines are finished with a knit band. Make a fluid, drapey tee with light to medium-weight knits with at least 30 per cent crosswise stretch, such as rayon, cotton, silk, merino and linen jerseys or sew a more sculptural Ebony with sturdier fabrics like ponte and scuba knits.

To find out about all sewing pattern brands distributed by the company, visit www.hantex.co.uk

craftfocus 69 modern sewers

Mettler threads Tilly and the buttons Mettler Silk Finish Cotton is the perfect sewing Say hello to Zadie, the stylish new sewing pattern and quilting thread. The high-quality thread from Tilly and the Buttons. boasts a luxuriously soft effect and has a The Zadie dress has the striking Z-shaped seams, supple feel. It’s available in a wide choice of which conceals two pockets. If your customer is a fan colours and different spool sizes. The larger of Tilly and the Buttons’ favourite Coco pattern, this spools are perfectly suited for long-arm project will take their knit fabric sewing skills to the quilting. Through the mercerization process, next level. Make it in jersey or ponte and you don’t the thread reaches a high breaking point, high need an overlocker either. heat resistance, and has reduced shrinkage. The pattern includes jargon-busting instructions, Additionally, Amann Group Mettler offers with helpful sewing tips, and colour photos showing you a multi-coloured option, which has a natural each step, making it easy to create gorgeous clothes. shine to give projects a special effect. The The Zadie sewing pattern retails at £12.50. thread is available in 250 colours, three sizes For more information visit and a choice of weights. shop.tillyandthebuttons.com/pages/wholesale. Mettler threads are now distributed by EQS UK. For more information vist the website www.eqsuk.com. Sewing storage Korbond has launched a selection of sewing baskets and pincushions, inspired by the latest 2017 spring summer trends. With a variety of sizes, the collection provides a vibrant and colourful take on modern crafting. Korbond has four new collections to choose from:

Spring Tweet – A fresh sage green colourway with a sweet decorative songbird effect. Regal Rose – A richly coloured and stylised-rose pattern, which is slightly flamboyant. Whimsical Floral – Soft and muted colours provide a lighthearted folksy influence. Wild Meadow – A striking wild floral motif design with single flowers drawn in navy and yellow set on a simple plain background. Korbond Group is passionate about delivering all retail customers with the best quality products at a great value and offers the key seasonal collections to capture the interest of a variety of consumers. They retail from £3.99 for a pincushion to £32.99 for an extra large sewing basket. Machine needles To find about more about Korbond, visit the website Schmetz universal www.sew-korbond.co.uk. neeedles feature a slightly rounded tip, making them perfect HABERDASHERY for use on almost all Here is a list of consumable sewing products that you should be stocking to keep fabrics, especially sewers coming back for more: woven and knits, making them a great Bias binding Bobbins Buttons general-purpose Elastic Fabrics Interfacing needles for use with all sewing Pins Ribbons Sewing patterns and stitching projects. They come in packs Threads Trimmings Zips of five in an array of sizes including: 60/8, Needles – hand and machine 70/10, and 80/12. To stock visit www.eqsuk.com

70 craftfocus IT’S SHOW TIME! See the efco creative spring range at CHSI Stitches Feb 19th – 21st Stand G20 Hall 12, NEC

/ÊÀ`iÀÊ>ÊV>Ì>}Õi and find about the efco range contact:Êefco creative GmbH | c/o Sinotex UK Ltd Unit C The Courtyard Business Centre | Lonesome Lane | Reigate | RH2 7QT | [email protected] | www.efcouk.com | Tel: 01737 245450 Craft Kits

See us at: SPRING FAIR Stand 5H71

www.buttonbag.co.uk [email protected] | 020 8525 1640 sewing

Frosty fabrics Blithe by Katarina Rocella is a beautiful fabric collection filled with frosty trees, confident deer, and subdued colours that include warm greys, golds to dazzling whites and misty blues. Nature’s landscape Contemporary boxed crafts transitions in hues as snow kisses House of Alistair (HoA) is a contemporary craft brand, which the forest with its white blanket. Art has a great range of kits that will appeal to a wide range of Gallery Fabrics are distributed by customers, and crosses into lots of different crafting areas – Hantex. many of which using Liberty fabrics. Shown here is the eye mask To see more visit the website kit that includes everything that’s needed as well as pattern, www.hantex.co.uk. instructions, and gorgeous Liberty fabric. To see the whole range, visit www.houseofalistair.com.

The cocktail hour Join the new Vogue Patterns social sew-along and get your customers making a lovely new cocktail dress. The exciting new promotion, The Cocktail Hour, from the McCall Pattern Company for this year launches at CHSI Stitches in February. Some 20 designs have been chosen from the Vogue Patterns range, which will be offered to retailers together with leaflets and posters publicising the promotion. “There is something for all styles, including traditional dresses, tops and smart trousers,” explained Sue Haft, Managing Director for The McCall Pattern Company. For every one of the selected designs sold, a percentage goes to The Eve Appeal, a charity supporting research into gynaecological cancers in women. “We’ve proudly donated more than £16,000 to The Eve Appeal through the support of our retailers and pattern customers who have sewn our specially selected designs since we started the sew-alongs in 2015” said Sue Haft. The promotional patterns and supporting material will be shipped to stockists with the Vogue Pattern spring catalogue. “We’re encouraging retailers and home sewers to hold their own Eve Appeal cocktail parties - sharing the details with us which will be included on a special page of our website dedicated to the promotion,” comments Sue Haft. Official cocktail parties, hosted by the McCall’s team will take place at the autumn Knitting and Stitching shows, in both London and Harrogate. To be part of the promotion, contact the McCall’s Customer Services department on customerservices@vogue-butterick. co.uk or +44 (0)344 880 1262.

craftfocus 73 bookstand Make additional sales by stocking craft books alongside your other product offerings. We review the latest editions to hit the shelves

CROCHET

POPCORNS, BOBBLES AND PUFFS TO CROCHET –THE ESSENTIAL SKILLS SERIES By Lindy Zubairy Price: £9.95 Publisher: Quarto Press

Quarto has released a series of craft books called Essential Skills that concentrate on crochet and macramé. Readers can develop a fun new skill and make beautiful things for themselves, friends and family. As an improver with the basics under your belt, crocheters will find the projects in Popcorns, Bobbles and Puffs to Crochet, a natural next step to their craft. Create lovely nubbly textures with a whole toolbox of transferable techniques. The book includes ideas that are fun to make, with carefully photographed step-by-step sequences, smart captions, useful annotations and links to one-minute films that show some of the step-by-step sequences repeated.

We say: “QR codes are provided to scan with your smart phone and link to quick and easy tutorials, which really does bring crochet into the modern world.”

PAPERCRAFT

STICKERTOPIA: The Flower Garden, illustrated by Angela Mckay and Mouni Feddag The Forest, illustrated by Kate Sutton and Luci Everett Price: £10 each RRP ISBN: 9781784723118 and 9781784723125 and illustrations from world-renowned artists so piece together Publisher: Mitchell Beazley is an imprint of Octopus Books original illustrations whenever you need a moment of calm. Like colouring, stickering is a craft that you can take up instantly. Promised to be the next big thing after colouring, you can now create It requires few materials, no special equipment and just time and lovely artworks, one sticker at a time. Mitchell Beazley has put together space to relax and enjoy the task in hand. For each illustration, there two sticker books, The Flower Garden and The Forest. are around 100 stickers, allowing you to customize each scene with These books have been designed specifically for those who don’t insects, flowers, plants and other details of your choice. Use the want to colour within the lines, and use beautifully detailed stickers to thumbnail images of finished gardens to guide you, or get creative and construct little worlds of wonder. The books feature vibrant patterns make your own original artworks.

74 craftfocus book reviews

POTTERY

THE POTTERY THROWN DOWN By Elizabeth Wilhilde and Susie Hodge Price: £20 RRP ISBN: 9781911216421 Publisher: Pavilion

After watching BBC 2’s primetime series,The Great Pottery Throw Down from Love Productions, many people have started to view this messy but marvelous craft in a different light. More than two million viewers tuned into watch lumps of clay turned into beautiful masterpieces. This book is the official companion to the series, and introduces you to the world of ceramics. The book takes readers on a fascinating journey through ceramic history, culture, art, craft and manufacture and showcases along the way a range of beautiful pottery from Clarice Cliff, Kaj Franck and more.

We say: “This book really does bring the art form to life with some striking photographs and technical illustrations.”

CAKE DECORATING SEWING

MODERN SUGARCRAFT GIRL WITH A SEWING MACHINE FLOWERS By Jenniffer Taylor By Jacqueline Butler Price: £12.99 Price: £19.99 RRP ISBN: 9781782214564 ISBN: 9781446306468 Published by Search Press Publisher: Imprint SewandSo and is distributed by Written by The Great British Sewing F&W Media Bee, season two contestant, Jenniffer Taylor, this stylish book F+W Media International has shows the reader how to up-cycle just launched the trend-led and adapt items of clothing, as well as creating SewandSo Imprint for 2017. one-of-a-kind clothes that will fit the sewers personality and shape. The new line focuses on Using Jenniffer’s fun and imaginative ideas, learn how to customise books covering the top UK clothes with doilies, tassels, tie-dyeing and block printing. Jenniffer and global trends in the craft also covers some of the basics on how to measure yourself, create category. Modern Sugarcraft patterns and make clothes from scratch such as dresses, skirts, tops, Flowers is published in April and is aimed at trousers and a coat. This stylish no-fuss guide to making and adapting providing sugarcrafters with a reference book that will be invaluable your own clothes is ideal for beginners. for years to come. Learn the secrets of sugar floristry with Petalsweet Cakes founder, Jacqueline Butler, who has built a huge international We say: “The book is also packed with the tricks of the trade that following for her incredible sugar flowers. She’ll show with step-by-step Jenniffer has learned along her sewing journey, and will kickstart the detail how to create modern and sophisticated, stylized sugar flowers, readers own #sewingrevolution.” and how to use them to create beautiful arrangements on wedding and celebration cakes. Book contacts Mitchell Beazley, www.octopusbooks.co.uk We say: “There’s 20 stunning sugar flowers in various stages of Quarto Press, www.quartoknows.com bloom including flower buds and leaves. All are shown in a clean and Pavilion Books, www.pavilionbooks.com contemporary colour palette to decorate single-tier and multi-tiered Sewand So, www.fwcommunity.com/uk cakes, as well as making styro-foam cake toppers.” Search Press, www.searchpress.com

craftfocus 75 editor’s picks Five foodcrafts that crafters will loveve to to m amake!ke!

1. Colourful cakes You’ve seen them on Instagram and Pinterest, now youou can bake your own from scratch (nearly) with less messss and less fuss. Everything you need to bake a deliciouss rainbow cake – just add eggs, butter and milk – and thehe 1 kit contains everything else. This is just one of the manyny kits available from Bakedin. Bakedin, www.bakedin.co.uk

2. Put your fudge making skills to the test The Fudge Kitchen Home kit contains everything you need to make its 2 creamy smooth and devilishly different fudge in the comfort of your own home. It’s a tasty gift for foodies, gourmets and those tricky people who have everything. Fudge Kitchen, www.fudgekitchen.co.uk

3. Become an artisan baker Impress your dinner guest with 3 the artisan seeded flowerpot bread making kit as well as making delicious bread. The kit makes a fantastic gift for anyone from the novice to keen baker and appeals to all age ranges. Thorness, www.thorness.co.uk

4. Love a lolly Make four fun chocolate lolly shapes with the Chocolate Lolly Maker set. Simply melt and pour chocolate into the moulds and add a secret message 4 to the back. Shiny bags and tie on ribbons provided. Just add chocolate! John Adams, www.johnadams.co.uk

5. Rest your pins Not exactly edible, but we love this doughnut pincushion kit. Whether a curious beginner or established sewer, this kit provides everything you need to make and sew a lovely felt pincushion in the shape of a delicious doughnut. It’s a perfect gift for anyone who would like to learn to sew or just a fun project to make. The Make Arcade, www.themakearcade.co.uk 5

76 craftfocus

Unit F4, Northfleet Indst Est, Lower Road, Northfleet, Kent DA11 9SW EBOR FABRICS Tel: 01322 380480 Fax: 01322 380680 We offer a fast, reliable and friendly service on our continually Require a Sales Representative increasing range (currently over 3,500 choices) of bridal fabrics, for Southern England and the West Country embroidered and beaded edgings, motifs and accessories. Our range of dress accessories now exceeds 1000+ articles including many brooches and buckles with crystals and pearls. The Bridal Roadshow Droitwich, UK | 26th-27th February 2017 The Bridal Roadshow Harrogate, UK | 12th-13th March 2017 We are a leading supplier of craft fabrics Textile Forum London, UK | 15th-16th March 2017 with an established customer base Paris Bridal Fair Paris, France | 1st-3rd April 2017 The Bridal Roadshow Dublin, Ireland | 2nd-3rd April 2017 looking to recruit an experienced The Bridal Roadshow Glasgow, Scotland | 30th April-1st May 2017 sales person to cover the above area. Interbride Dusseldorf, Germany - 27th-30th May 2017

O.T.E £35,000 per annum plus company car and business expenses.

PLEASE EMAIL OR WRITE WITH C.V. TO:

Ebor Fabrics Ltd. Embsay Mill. Embsay. Skipton. BD23 6QF

Email: [email protected] [email protected] www.michaelsbridalfabrics.co.uk fabrics fun with fabrics Stock the latest fabrics to introduce your A NEWS SEASON FOR CLOUD9 customers to soft crafts Cloud9 has released its new season collections, offering a wide range of fabric choices from quilters weight cotton to swaddling and batiste including the following: FIELDS OF FABRIC One of the latest collections from Art Gallery Fabrics is Garden Dreamer by Maureen Cracknell. The fabrics in this collection feature a botanical bouquet of dainty blooms splashed with lots of lovely luminous colour. The child-like wonder of the verdant flower fields is highlighted with sky blue, coral pinks, and dusty jade as memories of the garden linger.

Art Gallery Fabrics is distributed by Hantex +44 (0)1754 820 800 [email protected] www.hantex.co.uk

Underwater by Elizabeth Olwen This fabric collection is inspired by a love of the ocean and the world that exists under it’s surface, and is available on quilters weight fabric.

PLAIN BUT NOT SIMPLE Sew Simple Solids is a fantastic range Tinted Denim of solid colours This range is a little bit ’80s and a lot now, and is like an old friend that’s ideal for using with a new look. Yarn-dyed twill weaves denim is a thing of beauty as blenders and and in this versatile weight, and wonderful pastel shades makes colour matches for sewing possibilities endless. your craft projects and creating imaginative combinations. It doesn’t matter what the project your customers are Tout Petit by Little Cube working on from This is a sweet collection for babies and little ones, featuring simple quilting, clothing or shapes, playful animals and soft pastel colours, inspired by French home décor, they’ll be able to find the colour they need. babywear and characters from childhood books and songs. The range Sew Simple Solids is an affordable high quality solid range, with comprises of prints on swaddle, sheeting and knit/jersey fabrics. 36 colours to choose from. It’s made from 100 per cent cotton and Cloud9 fabrics are perfect for all sorts of sewing projects from comes in 44in/45in wide, 10-yard bolts. clothes, quilting, projects for the home and other soft craft projects.

Sew Simple is distributed by EQS Cloud9 fabrics are distributed by Hantex +44(0)116 271 0033 +44 (0)1754 820 800 [email protected] [email protected] www.eqsuk.com www.hantex.co.uk

craftfocus 79 fun with fabrics

COSY QUILTING If you’re looking for the best batting for your quilters, Bosal is a name synonymous with quality. Katahdin premium batting has a STYLISH TRADTIONALS luxurious hand, minimal stretch and low shrinkage making it perfect to African Sky’s Lincoln Lane collection is designed by Ginger Lily complement any quilting project. It’s available in three weights – 3oz Studio and features six group designs featuring classic flower for summer, 4oz for autumn and 4.5oz nanofibre polyester for winter. prints, scrolls and leaf prints in three subtle colourways, and is While Acadia, crafted in Maine in the US, is a midweight 80 per cent made from premium 100 per cent cotton. cotton, 20 per cent polyester perfect for autumn quilting. African Sky fabrics are distributed in the UK by EQS UK Bosal +44 (0)116 271 0033 +1 207 793 2245 [email protected] [email protected] www.eqsuk.com www.bosalonline.com

SAY CHEESE The latest collection to be released by Elizabeth’s Studio is the fun and one-of-a-kind Selfies collection. Jumping on the selfie trend Elizabeth’s Studio brings you a collection featuring all your favourite pets, zoo animals, ocean creatures and farm friends in some hilarious selfie poses – complete with smiles, sticky out tongues and pouts!

Elizabeth’s Studio is distributed in the UK by EQS +44 (0)116 271 0033 [email protected] www.eqsuk.com

80 craftfocus ask the experts Leading experts in the industry help with retailing and crafting dilemmas

CRAIG DE SOUZA, CHA UK JULIE BONNAR, KD MEDIA PUBLISHING www.cha-uk.co.uk www.craftfocus.com Craig has been working within the Julie has worked in the craft industry for creative, craft and hobby industry for 15 more than 12 years on both consumer years; 11 years in the advertising and and trade magazines, designing projects now as the Executive Director of and craft PR. Currently the editor of Craft AFCI.UK (formally CHA-UK). AFCI. Focus, she originally trained as an interior UK members employ him to help designer but found she liked making them succeed. He’s the conduit for her own clothes more than she liked making curtains. Julie now members to call on if they require help, also runs her own blog style website called The Pattern Pages on information or advice regarding their craftftb business. hThis fashion and sewing. support and help ranges from fining cheaper paperclips, helping “I love crafting and think I’m ready to start my own cottage with business contacts to finding cheaper suppliers and getting business. Do you have any advice for me.” free tickets to trade shows. Firstly don’t sell yourself short. It’s tempting when someone comes

“Recently I’ve seen live ‘craft’ posts and demonstrations to you with an idea for a ‘quick’ project but your time is money and on in particular on Facebook. Do you see this taking off in it’s easy to underestimate how much time things will take to make. a big way?” Remember it’s no longer just a hobby for you, it’s your business This is a really interesting and exciting question, it’s all about how and you have to make money. There’s no such thing as too much we as a creative industry can access information. Back in the day, networking! You need to keep up-to-date with what’s happening if we wanted to see anything being made, look for a new product in your industry and you should be attending every craft event, or find inspiration, we would have to visit the local craft shop, networking and business occasion that you can. Who you know take a class or attend an event. Now we can fast forward – really does help further your business through word of mouth. our ability to access information has changed thanks to the It’s so easy to neglect having a scheduled break when you work internet. Our thirst for knowledge, information and quest for for yourself. Make sure you create a break for coffee or lunch or inspiration can be accessed on our phones, and soon watches, afternoon tea just as you would if you were in an office. Working we’re a ‘now’ society. from home requires dedication and commitment and isn’t for The live craft demonstrations that you’ve mentioned delivers everyone, you may think that you don’t have time for breaks but on the conusmer needs and, I think, are going to be very popular. being a workaholic can have a negative effect on your productivity It’s another useful tool for businesses and people to drive too. Have a separate office or workroom and stay away from it awareness, inspiration, sell products and give crafters what they when you have downtime so you won’t be tempted to look at crave for. The live demonstrations are a way of giving power and emails at 11 o’clock at night! a portal to craft businesses and crafters to connect, engage and Also except that you will make mistakes along the way and that inspire crafters. You can interact with them by asking questions your mistakes belong to you, there’s no one else to blame but see and commenting on the comment. This is another exciting tool them as a positive part of your business’s learning curve, move on for everyone to use, and highlight and take crafting to the next and don’t punish yourself too much. Marketing and telling people level, which can be used to help craft shops survive in difficult about your business is time well spent (and blowing your own times. If you’re interested you can learn how to use these live trumpet is not an easy thing to do for some people) but if you’re th th demonstrations effectively at One Big Show between 18 - 19 serious about staying afloat and getting work, you’ve got to speak June 2017. out, cold call and network – no one else is going to do it for you!

8282 craftfocuscracrcraraftfoftfftffooccuscuuuss ask the experts 83 c craftfocus

Good product training means that you and your team will have will that you and your team means training Good product “Crafters continually need glue products but how do I make do I make but how continually need glue products “Crafters sales?” adhesive the most of glue styles and adhesive of different variety a huge There’s good mix of focus on a should resellers and on offer strengths Variety needs. of crafting a wide variety adhesives that will cover on adhesive brands focusing recommend I’d of life! is the spice card, such as paper, of surfaces that will glue a wide variety I’d In other words, wood and textiles. glass, metal, plastic, foam, Dots, that Glue of adhesives, like a range stocking recommend card scrapbooking, projects, crafting work just as well with paper hanging, mounting as well as with office gems, making, attaching and household repairs. solutions, DIY projects and ask if safe are selling adhesives that that you’re sure Make It may seem safe). (photo lignin and acid free they non-toxic, are products and card paper obvious but adhesives should sit next to who of manufacturers advantage Take section. craft in your paper of free usually provided Displays are POS material. supply free lines, product of different they and because hold a variety charge up to trade sales as customers’ increases dramatically this in turn top we supply counter example, For in the range. other products for and posters cards makes units, project retail standing and free through with inspiration customers and provide promotion in-store and on our website makes of eye-catching project a wide range in-store, a product demonstrate If you can social media platforms. and will increase is, tools there sales one of the most effective it’s sales dramatically. with your customers provide to the necessary skills and knowledge products you will sell more the best possible service, and of course, Glue Dots, we you sell. At about the products if you know more product provide and also resellers to our training staff free offer on our website. and updates information DAVE ANGUS, GLUE DOTS GLUE ANGUS, DAVE www.gluedotseurope.com Account National Dave Angus, European at Glue Dots International Manager, UK and European the company’s oversees currently He’s sales operation. retail side of working on developing the retail a number of sectors the business across wholesale, art,including craft, education, Dave and and DIY. discounters stationery, Design work closely with West his team UK and the company’s who are Products stationery, the craft, for distributor European the brand quickly growing and are sectors, trade art and education the UK and Europe. throughout ng gi ana

Some of the objections to going digital are perfectly valid, valid, perfectly are digital going Some of the objections to marketing, digital to turning companies and more With more everything make has done is to move One thing the internet your purchases make to isn’t the only way Using the internet “We know that we should be trading and selling online but and selling should be trading we that “We know buy what we to think about using the Internet should we need too?” You’re right; a large number of companies are selling successfully selling successfully are number of companies right; a large You’re but or other platforms Facebook be it a website, via the web, why they don’t reasons many are few buy online. There relatively to you should use the Internet even reasons are more but there up-to-date. keep or at least purchases, make a lot of companies However, life. in real such as seeing colours its of presenting in favour catalogues have given up on printed is out-of-date catalogue is that a printed online. The fact products now, available what’s see to published, so if you want it’s before is online. the only place deals. out on incredible that you may be missing a danger there’s so if you don’t open yourfor a short period of time are Many offers that that you won’t grab mean it could suppliers, emails from make to regularly folder worth checking your spam/junk It’s bargain. bad stuff! hasn’t ended up sitting with the stuff that good sure on permanently camped Unless you have a rep quickly. more not dwell on that thought!), how else will (let’s your doorstep Even if you don’t feel new on a daily basis? what’s you hear a make to way a great online, it’s ordering actually comfortable all this depends on Of course, phone through. shopping list to constantly is kept is easy-to-use, that your supplier having a site is by start to place that end, a good To and is accurate. updated, see that you use the most to of those suppliers checking the sites And if theyif they the above criteria. don’t, meet them! tell not and one that brings many advantages, another way but it’s sleep at 3am! do your buying when you can’t that you can least After graduating, Graeme joined the Graeme graduating, After scheme at Coats management-training the him around took training His Patons. in Barcelona. spending a year UK before South him to has taken His career Nottingham the US, Spain, America, served on various He’s and Redditch. for committees marketing international joint owner and Managing and became the group, specialises in the full-line in 1996. The company of EQS Ltd Director to threads and quilting from patchwork for distribution of products of CHA UK and also a director He’s wadding. and notions to fabrics Council member of Quilts, Inc. of Houston. GRAEME WRIGHT, EQS WRIGHT, GRAEME www.eqsuk.com

papercraft

spring is in the air

papercraft products to put a spring in your step when it comes to seasonal sales

Designer dies Following last year’s popular mixed media die release, Die’sire is launching some more fabulous designs that are sure to fire up the imagination. The range features nine new designs including ribbon buckles, rosettes and pennent banners, as well as a blossoming tree, cogs and paisley, The extra-thick dies allow crafters to die-cut fabrics, foam and chipboard with ease, bringing texture and interest to all kinds of different papercraft projects.

Crafters Companion +44 (0)1388 660 930 [email protected] www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

Wildwood cottage Discover the whimsical world of Wildwood Cottage, the newest collection by Heartfelt Creations. Explore magical gardens filled with light and airy florals, chirping birds, fluttering butterflies, and of course, the playful and enchanting sprites that call the gardens home. The softly hued paper collection is sprinkled with pretty garden shades resembling moss like greens, lilac lavenders, pansy purples and hydrangea blues accented with daisy like yellows, whites and petunia pinks. Delicate chevrons, ornate floral swirls, along with dainty polka dots and eyelet lace like designs are just a few of the graceful finishes showcased among this decorative paper collection, and have been incorporated into heartwarming full-page cottage and garden scenes ideal for scrapbook layouts, as well as various sized premade card front panels ideal for quick and easy card bases. It’s the perfect collection to add a touch of sunshine, and bring smiles to the faces of friends and loved ones.

Heartfelt Creations is distributed by Jones Crafts +44 (0)115 978 1263 [email protected] www.jonesnottm.co.uk

craftfocus 85 spring is in the air

Cards for all occasions House of Cards (9781910904572) by Sarah Hamilton is published by Pavilion, and features an array of inspiring card-making projects using an exciting range of techniques and designs from the author and founder of the ‘Just a Card’ campaign. Creating homemade cards is easy, affordable and incredibly rewarding. This practical and insightful book is a complete guide to getting started, with 10 visually easy-to-follow projects from Beautiful blooms professional card designers. Wildflower is the latest papercraft collection from Kaisercraft. The range Each project introduces a different style and technique, from encourages crafters to step inside a water-coloured wonderland of silkscreen printing and textile foiling to letterpress and stitched wildflowers and features painted florals, butterflies and fun patterns, motifs, all with clear step-by-step instructions. There’s also which seep across the pages of this colourful collection. Light pink insider information on how to manufacture and license designs and teal brushstrokes, marble streaks and black paint flecks surround commercially. The book retails at £14.99. meaningful sentiments that will warm any papercrafter’s heart.

Pavilion Crafts Kaisercraft is distributed by Jones Crafts + 44 (0)20 7462 1500 +44 (0)115 978 1263 [email protected] [email protected] www.pavilionbooks.com www.jonesnottm.co.uk

The perfect crease Anyone who regularly folds paper and card, whether for crafts, origami, stationery or leaflets and flyers will benefit from using Fold-Ease. The small paper and card-folding tool prevents friction burns and paper cuts, and speeds up folding and Frame it! creates a neat crease-line. Boutique papercraft brand Polkadoodles has recently launched a Fold-Ease was nominated range of cutting dies, paper pads and clear stamps. All of the new lines for a Hot Product Award coordinate across the whole product range to make crafting easy for at the international Craft the consumer, and offer great quality and competitive pricing to suit and Hobby Association Mega show in USA 2015, and in 2016 its anyone’s pocket. inventor made it through the gruelling trials of the BBC’s Dragon’s With designs, which are perfect for spring, Easter, Mother’s Day and Den to showcase the product on air. weddings, crafters are already snapping these up. Fold-Ease is an admirably simple, lightweight thimble with two Polkadoodles range is available to ship to stockists worldwide, and rollers to do the folding and a gap at the end for long fingernails. the company was recently a highly commended finalist in the Institute It retails in a pack of two sizes for just £3.99. of Export’s Action Plan Awards in November, 2016. Fold-Ease is distributed by Manwise Products Polkadoodles +44 (0)7896 328 220 +44 (0)1904 440 052 [email protected] [email protected] www.fold-ease.com www.polkadoodles.co.uk/wholesale-1

86 craftfocus standing out in the crowd

Lee Nicolaou, Marketing Manager from Business Agent, discusses how to raise equity for your business through crowdfunding

WHERE BEST FITS THE PLAN Raising finance for your business can be First things first, you need a clear plan. What a stressful process and it’s not as easy as are you going to achieve? How are you going what it once was. With banks’ lending to to achieve it? Who is going to achieve it? All businesses less, it can be a struggle to reach of these questions need to be addressed the growth and potential you’re looking for. in a well-structured business plan. What Equity funding is With the alternative finance market growing, key pieces of information do you need to the latest way to business owners now have another avenue to include – 50-page documents aren’t always try. Equity crowdfunding for businesses has the best route to take, investors and equity raise funds for exploded and has helped to fund successful crowdfunding platforms, can be turned off by your business enterprises. It can be a long process and this. You need to be short, snappy and smart requires more time than a standard business about what’s included in your business plan. loan, but I’m here to share what you should Think about what you’re writing and sum it up expect and where to start. in the most efficient, yet informative way. You

88 craftfocus business advice 89 craftfocus C The equity

choose from.

now a number of great platforms to to platforms great rate, and there are are and there rate, has grown at a huge at a huge has grown crowdfunding market market crowdfunding Contact alternative is the UK’s Business Agent investors for marketplace finance and entrepreneurs. www.businessagent.com build leading up to your funding and create and create your funding up to build leading so exciting it and why it’s some noise around and exclusive. PLATFORM BE CLEAR If your business is confusing or your plans are or your plans are If your business is confusing You lose interest. to going you’re confusing, that your primary ensure need to business and how you plan is understandable function and clear are the business goals reach to your exit plan mapped out. to When it comes and honest, forward you should be straight Most see a return? to going investors how are for opportunity an exciting it’s importantly, one of the most your business and is certainly cash. raise to ways fun The equity crowdfunding market has grown has grown market The equity crowdfunding now a number are and there rate, at a huge When it choose from. to platforms of great look at what picking a platform, to comes a look at what suits you the best. Take from will charge the platform percentage in a share and do they also take your raise the consider your business? Do your research, types of businesses they’ve previously funded to they’re likely and what type of investors to that is likely and find a platform have. Try your business. for be the most relevant

Remember, your figures have to be justified. have to your figures Remember, You’re excited about your business right excited You’re make time to and you believe in it, now it’s everyone place the same. A good else feel highlight your strengths is a video to start to short and keep it fun, as a business. Make Also get and interested. viewers engaged your work online, and showcase yourself and and Instagram Facebook Twitter, across and potential with your customers engage (and free) tool marketing a great It’s users. your business known and visible, and get to ad service you can a paid with the option for a even Create more. your marketing increase business will play a huge part in what you can in what you can part business will play a huge raise. look to of the assets, the value consider need to You’ll flow cash in the business, discounted cash within the valuations projections, future for and loss, the profit the industry, the current sales as well as the revenue and the projected Valuing yourself in your existing staff. value to less likely investors make high can too invest, as they’ll be expecting a higher share but also be comfortable Be fair their cash. for giving away. with the amount of equity you’re THE BUZZ

Next, the management team, this is veryNext, team, the management EQUITY OFFERED AND VALUATION EQUITY important. How are they guide How are important. qualified to do experiences the business and what past they have that will drive the business forward? you excepting what are Cash flow forecasts, the business and how much will it from investment you have received once make to you going How are here! – be realistic analysis Competitor the product? market with your plan Be innovative is important. and try trying out, all, you’re after and stand invest in you, so what to investors attract to everyone you from else? separates should be including your vision and mission, should be including your vision and mission, and serviceyou’re of the product details from what’s and why this differs offering in the market. available already You’ll have to consider how much of your how consider have to You’ll Firstly, give away. willing to business you’re straight. your valuation get you’ll need to cent of your 25 per offer to going If you’re £250,000 then you have valued business for your business at £1m. Is that a reasonable you wish simply pick a value can’t sum? You of a small percentage and only offer raise to your add up and valuing it needs to equity, a piece of cake Craft Focus catches up with Marion Frost from Patchwork Cutters to talk about how she’s on a mission to make cake decorating easy!

Tell us how Patchwork Cutters came into being? I was originally demonstrating for the British Sugarcraft Guild and teaching cake decorating in Liverpool in the ’80s when I had one of those light-bulb moments. I came up with the idea to emboss a sun catcher into icing to create an outline. The pattern could then be painted or cut out using different coloured flower paste shapes. Then, placing the pieces on top of the embossed design, a layering effect could easily be made.

What are your bestselling products? The silhouette range is proving extremely What was the initial aim of the company? popular and we’re also adding to the floral I wanted to make cake decorating easier for cutter range, as sugar flowers are always very the beginner, and accessible to all to have a popular too. go. We’ve been inspiring cake decorators now for more than 20 years. Do you have any new products coming out? What products can you offer retailers to Yes we do, at Patchwork Cutters we are always help its customers decorate cakes releasing new cutter designs and we’ve the easy way? some new books and also some beautiful We have more than 300 designs so we’re new stencils. sure we have something for everyone and when used with flower paste, the results are The cutters and embossers aren’t just for fantastic every time, whether it’s elaborate making cakes, are they? wedding cakes, cupcakes or iced cookies. No, these days they can be used with other

90 craftfocus company profile

craft mediums but they work especially well Tell us about your demonstration days – with air-drying clay such as Hearty Artista. would they be useful to retailers? made for his first birthday is my favourite for This then opens more opportunities and These days certainly would be very all the obvious reasons. means a whole theme for a wedding from informative for retailers but they currently invitations, place settings, table-plans and sell out quickly, so we’re planning to hold Where can retailers get to see even order of service can be made using the more demonstrations just for retailers at the your products? same design as the wedding cake. amazing Renshaw Academy in Liverpool so Retailers can see the full colour catalogue on do come back to our website to find out more. our website www.patchworkcutters.com. We also have a full list of exhibitions, classes and Your website has lots of useful demonstration days on our website where information – tell us about the tutorials you can see us, which is updated monthly. and videos.

Apart from information on up and coming Do you have any other exciting news to events and classes, we also have free tutorials share with us? online, which includes PDFs and videos Patchwork Cutters is starting to put together showing many of the different techniques a series of books again, beginning with Easy such as brush embroidery and découpage Flowers with Patchwork Cutters. We’ve had using our cutters. We plan to add lots more for a huge amount of requests from customers the forthcoming year. at the demonstration days, and there are so many different flowers that can be made with We particularly like the silhouette cakes just one set of cutters. but do you have a favourite cake that you’ve made in the past? That’s a hard question as the latest cake is Patchwork Cutters usually my favourite! But I guess if I had to +44 (0)151 678 5053 choose, my little grandson’s toy box that I www.patchworkcutters.com

craftfocus 91 Google and the Mobile First search index David Fairhurst of Intelligent Retail explains how Google’s new search index could affect your website’s ranking

With the ongoing march of smartphone usage the mobile-based results as the primary review the content on those separate sites, in our daily lives, it isn’t surprising that the index as Google state this represents the or preferably update to a responsive website. Google search engine now sees substantially preferences of more of its users. Adaptive mobile optimised pages traditionally more searches via mobile devices including employ a lot less text content than their smartphones, ‘phablets’ and tablets than desktop counterparts, a consequence of the computers. Google recently announced that diminished screen size on mobile devices. because of this discovery, they intend to Utilising text content on these mobile move to a Mobile First search index, which pages will mean that these mobile pages will is going to drastically change the way naturally rank less well than their desktop that websites rank in Google’s search equivalent pages, as Google relies on text results. The roll-out of this change to in order to say if pages are relevant or Mobile First has already started, so not for searches carried out in its search here’s what you need to know. engine. Without text, even if you have a well laid-out mobile e-commerce platform, Explaining the Mobile First index your pages are unlikely to rank well in Google has decided to present search Google searches in the future. results based on the device preferences of their users. As more searches are now done Adaptive websites can take on mobile devices than desktops or laptops, two forms: results will now be biased towards mobile- Is your business website affected? On the Fly: This relies on browser size friendly page results. As this is an ongoing launch, there is little 1 switching to determine which version If your business has a mobile-accessible data at present to say what effect this may of code to serve. When a small screen size is website, you’re more likely to see this ranking have on search results, but Google state that detected, a different style sheet and HTML in search results when the roll-out of the website owners shouldn’t panic. Websites page is selected to render the page for Mobile First update completes, even for that aren’t optimised for mobile devices will that screen size. The actual page content searches done on a desktop or other non- still get crawled and indexed, although it’s served to each different screen size varies, mobile device. obvious from Google’s introduction of the so smaller devices get less text. In some Prior to this change, Google had two Mobile Friendly update in 2015 that rankings cases, descriptive text on category pages and different ways of indexing web search results. are going to be negatively affected for sites product pages can be completely absent, One search engine index held all of the search that don’t view well on mobile devices. which is bad for search engine results and results from the point of view of a desktop If you currently have a mobile-optimised also for conversions. based browser, the other held all search e-tail platform that’s adaptive (employs a This is the closest to being responsive results from the point of view of a mobile- range of separate websites, built specifically without actually being responsive. Crucially, based device browser. Google will now use for a range of screen sizes) this is the time to the URL of the page stays the same, so site.

92 craftfocus business advice 93 tail tail craftfocus . C own experiments prove that Google own experiments prove held in text and rank does still crawl www.intelligentretail.co.uk content in expanding text boxes. Our boxes. text in expanding content which belies this boxes, text expanding they will give full weight to all of the text all of the text weight to they will give full statement from Google, but that’s a story Google, but that’s from statement expanding text makes perfect sense so perfect makes text expanding for another time. for space available on mobile screens, use of on mobile screens, available space

websites, where this way of displaying text of displaying text this way where websites, Google) been downgraded. to has (according of the limited that because Google states What you need to do to need What you responsive have a fully If you don’t already then you should think about site, e-commerce be the only way This will really upgrading. out its Mobile rolls Google fully once forward months. Mobile sites index in the coming First conversion have better have been shown to display of the ability to and also because rates any time, they at drastically on any device can sales. Many people cross-device increase using a mobile now do their initial research to screen a larger to switch and may device customers potential so keeping purchase, to is the key with your website engaged those sales flowing! keeping or visit +44 (0)845 680 0126 elsewhere on the web, responsive sites also sites responsive elsewhere on the web, of only one set win in this respect. There’s no so there’s site, in a responsive pages your mobile pages of people linking to danger website.com/mobile/product-page/) (i.e. link is people to want when what you really The pages site. on your desktop the pages to have the same site in a responsive available of chance no so there’s URLs on any device, Google either. confusing text expandable that Google has also stated will on mobile sites and accordions boxes on desktop weighting, unlike be given full way forward nce Google fully rolls out is rolls Google fully nce forward way Moble First index in the coming months. index in the coming Moble First

you should think abut upgrading. This will really be the only This will really you should think abut upgrading. If you don't already have a fully responsive e-commerce site, then site, e-commerce responsive have a fully If you don't already When a small screen size size When a small screen

Sub-Site: Sub-Site: is website a separate is detected,

David Fairhurst is Head of Creative Online Marketing at Intelligent Retail. at Intelligent Online Marketing of Creative is Head David Fairhurst re at many different 1999 and has spoken engine optimisation (SEO) and web development since David has been involved with search and SEO conferences including Spring Fair and SES London. Call David on London. and SES including Spring Fair and SEO conferences As rankings rely not only on website not only on website rely As rankings If your responsive desktop site is fully is fully site desktop If your responsive optimised for Google, then the pages will Google, then the pages optimised for way) in a different (but display the same content so in theory or device, of screen on any size all devices. will also be optimised for rankings from pages links into but external content How are responsive websites websites responsive are How different? online stores responsive fully who have Retailers worrydon’t need to about the Mobile First display the same page as these websites update All devices. ways on different in different content respond automatically to is written of the code and size including screen any sort of device, to and smartphones example, input type (for than keys). rather screens use touch tablets 2 com/page.html is the same URL on both com/page.html mobile devices. and desktop presented (either using a sub-domain presented or site. mobile.site.com or sub-folder, Both unfortunately com/mobile). to to Google content different present so they optimal site, aren’t the desktop engine results. search for

mother’s day mum’s the word Prepare for Mother’s Day, and make sure you have products to captialise on this one-day event DATE FOR YOUR DIARY Mother’s Day, Sunday 26th March, 2017

HERE ARE KORBONDS’ TOP TIPS ON HOW TO CAPITALISE ON MOTHER’S DAY: Offer a good choice of designs from 1quirky like button shaped sewing boxes, or classic love heart and couture style sewing boxes. Perfect for mums and grandmothers who love embroidery and sewing. ‘Millennial Mums’ who love practical 2but stylish items will love sewing tins, which are fun, trendy and easy to carry on holiday or trips away from home, packed “Searching for the best Mother’s Day gift is just behind Valentine’s Day with sewing essentials for on-the-spot and Christmas according to Google’s statistics, which gives craft retailers repairs and crafting projects. A dream gift a great opportunity to stock an irresistible choice of gifts tailored to a for organised mums and perfectly priced range of interests.” for children to give to their mother or grandmother. Vintage style is always a winner 3 – especially storage items with a traditional and nostalgic feel for storing sewing accessories and crafting essentials. Create beautiful in-store presentations 4 by selling items already gift wrapped and displayed in the shop window. Add additional tools or accessories such as items from the Korbond range to increase the retail value and to personalise each gift. By having an array of choices in your retail outlet, you’ll inspire your customers with a selection of high quality Mother’s Day gifts at a price point that suits every budget.

Korbond +44 (0)1476 573 227 www.sew.korbond.co.uk

craftfocus 95 mum’s the word

Inspiration and gifts for mothers who love crafting

FOR LADIES WHO LOVE TO SEW Here Comes The Fun by Sew Caroline for Art Gallery fabrics is a cheery collection of fabric that mums that sew will not want to resist with beautiful murals and vibrant colours are brought to life in the city chic collection of bold brushstrokes and modern florals, who could resist! The fabric is perfect for A POCKET FULL OF POSIES making clothing, Create a Flower dies are new from talented designer Sheena Douglass, bags and other and are stunning. The dies will allow crafters to create their own accessories, as well beautiful 3D-effect layered flowers for papercraft projects. as items to brighten Each pack contains three different petal sizes, which can be die-cut up the home. individually and built up to create pretty petal flowers for perfectly coordinated blooms every time. Also included in the range are textured Art Gallery Fabric additions, including mesh, spirals and geometric shapes, perfect for is distributed in giving added detail to floral creations. the UK by Hantex +44 (0)1754 820 800 Crafters Companion www.hantex.co.uk +44 (0)1388 660 930 www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

MAKE 3D JEWELLERY Preciosa Ornela The new tee beads from Preciosa Ornela are structural beads, which closely interlock when strung and are easy-to-use. The T-shaped design allows them to be used to create 3D designs with interesting and textured designs, including beaded beads. They work well with seed beads and small beads and measure 2mm x 8mm. As well as stringing, the tee beads can be used for Kumihimo, crochet and sewing techniques such as embroidery, and are available in a range of the beautiful Czech colours and effects. Creative Beadcraft is the UK distributor for Preciosa Ornela and the beads are available loose, in hanging tubes and as starter selections.

Creative Beadcraft +44 (0)1494 786 924 www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

96 craftfocus

www.karendaviescakes.co.uk

Original designs, hand crafted, highly detailed, silicone moulds for all your craft projects. Visit our website to view all of our products as well as free video tutorials. NEW - Royal Icing Essentials mould out now! Perfect for making embellishments for your craft projects.

Karen Davies Sugarcraft Unit 4 Royal Standard House | 330-334 New Chester Road Wirral | CH42 1LE 0151 643 0055 mother’s day

MADE WITH LOVE The innovative display-frame is available in 28 colourful designs, which is perfect for all sorts of occasions including Mother’s Day. They’re inexpensive, disposable and a creative and fun way to display precious photos, artwork and create shareable memories. Crafters who love the adult colouring craze will enjoy the eight illustrated designs that have been left blank so they can colour in themselves. Add a special drawing, a favourite picture or photo, colour in or simply use it as it GET IN THE GROOVE is – it’s up to you. It’s official, weaving is all the rage. Believe in the Weave is the latest weaving kit from Folder Frames can be assembled within two minutes Gilliangladrag. Each kit comes with a mini re-usable loom, and enough yarn and making them a quick and easy project and present too! No wool tops to make the weave, and includes the tassels, pompoms and a set of full tools are required and the frame is made from ecologically instructions. It’s the perfect gift for those wanting to learn the basics as well as older sustainable sourced paperboard, which is pre-creased. children. It retails at £13.95. The frame features a built-in stand to use the frame both portrait and landscape. Gilliangladrag +44 (0)1306 898 144 Folder Frame is distributed by Creative Products www.gilliangladragtrade.com Distribution +44 (0)208 953 2143 “Optimise your shop layout so customers see your offerings for www.creative-distribution.co.uk Mother’s day as soon as they come into the store.”

MAGICAL MYSTERY CARDS SAY IT WITH FLOWERS Lavinia Stamps produces a range of high quality A pair of embroidered bouquets is a good gift for a friend. Embroider one for her products for papercrafters, with artwork created by and keep the second one. Bouquet with Sweet Peas and Bouquet with Lavender Tracey Dutton, and transforms the detailed imagery are the latest novelty cross-stitch designs from RIOLIS. The designs are made for into a stunning range of stamps and scene-scapes. embroidery lovers who are ready to use different techniques and measure a neat Tracey has a passion for fairies and anything mystical, 15cm - 18 cm. The bouquets are embroidered with cross-stitches with different which features prominently in the beautiful designs. number of strands with a delicate background made with half cross-stitches. The The beautiful clear polymer stamps deliver stunning kits contain 14ct Aida Zweigart, 15 and 13 colours of cotton stranded threads detailed image every time. Anchor and a needle. There are two other designs in the series to stitch.

Lavinia Stamps RIOLIS is distributed by +44 (0)1824 710 691 SoloCrafts www.laviniastamps.co.uk +44 (0)161 464 7313 www.solocrafts.com

craftfocus 99 shout about your business

Sara Davies discusses the importance of building good relationships with the media

A great way to reach your audience is through great imagery always helps. It’s always a huge enough resolution to be used in print or trade and consumer magazines. When it boost for your products if customers can see online. All of this makes life easier for the comes to the craft industry, there’s lots of inspirational projects or craft ideas, so think journalist and will demonstrate that you’re great outlets your core customers will pick up outside the box. Can you provide a step-by- reliable, and easy-to-work with. and read and regularly visit online, so what step for making an item that are relevant to Additionally, you should always respond better way to get your news and products in the magazine’s target audience? And, could in a timely manner. Many journalists will be front of them? you offer the magazine a reader giveaway or under extreme pressure and tight deadlines, discount code as part of this? so make sure you get back to them on any Get to know your publications questions so be prepared to help them So how do you go about getting into these Well informed out where you can, perhaps with interview publications? Where do you start? Well, the Organise for regular press releases to go out opportunities or Q&A sessions. If they know most important thing when it comes to and make sure you’re reaching the trade and that you’re helpful and responsive, they’re working with industry publications is your consumer press and keeping them up to date more likely to want to work with you and relationship with them, so make sure you make with new products, trends and company news. come to you with future opportunities. time to nurture these all-important contacts. Make sure your content is informative, factual Once you’ve worked with a publication on Get a feel for each magazine, look at what and not promotional. Industry magazines a number of projects and built up a strong they write about and what the magazine should be the first to know about new launches relationship, you could even consider offering style is, and then speak to them about what because this is where potential stockists are to provide a regular feature or comment topics they have coming up in future issues. most likely to see them, so bear this in mind and piece. If you have consistently provided Publications love fresh content more than keep your press contacts in the loop. quality content that its readers engage with, ever so if you have something of value to offer There are also some ‘don’t do’s’ when the magazine might be open to the idea of than they might just be interested. it comes working with magazines. Most featuring you more often. Work out how you can help each other. importantly, only send relevant information One thing to always discuss when liaising Their audience will far exceed any that you to your contacts. For example, if you have a with a publication is exactly what is involved, could reach with email, poster, flyer and social contact at a magazine, which covers sewing, so as well as finding out what they need, media activity alone, so it’s easy to see what’s then the launch of a new papercraft collection find out when the piece will go to print and in this for you, but what can you do for them? will be of little interest to them. This goes in which edition. Many publications will also Do they need competition prizes, expert back to understanding the magazines you’re promote the story or feature across its social comments as part of a feature, news about working with them, so pick them up and read media platforms too, so find out if that’s likely, product launches or educational projects? If them yourself. after all, you want to be able to share it on you can build a relationship that is mutually your own channels if they do. beneficial, you’ll reap the rewards. Keeping within deadlines If there’s one thing to take away from me Whether you’re securing content or contributing from this issue’s column, it would be to never Showcase your wares editorial content, there's good etiquette for underestimate the importance of media The driving force behind every company is its working with journalists, which will help you publications, whether they be online or in customers, so it’s important to make sure they build those all-important relationships. So, print. Ultimately, they’re the ones that can know what’s new in your business and what make sure you’re meeting deadlines and showcase your products, share your news, you have planned going forward – after all providing them with what they need. and connect your company to the right they’re the ones who are going to buy Make things as easy as possible for them. audience, so make sure you build a strong your products! Follow any editorial guidelines that they’ve working relationship with them and work Build up a rapport with editors and work provided, stick to the word count and make together to create content that will benefit alongside them to create content and having sure the imagery you’re providing is of high both parties. C

Sara Davies is a Durham-born craft entrepreneur and the founder of Crafter’s Companion. For further information, visit www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk.

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What’s New? 1000s of product photos Detailed at-a-glance information on suppliers. Save your favourite suppliers for future visits

What’s Not New? The directory is still free to use - no registration. All listings are thoroughly vetted. We only list UK-based wholesalers product showcase stuck on you We showcase some of the best adhesives for crafting on the market

Glue is an essential item in any crafter’s READY, AIM, FIRE! toolbox. Here are five of the best specialist This portable battery poweredpowered glue gun is perfect for ccraftingrafting on on adhesives to guarantee good results: the go. It requires four AA batteries and the LED light illuminatesminates thethe work area. It comes withth threethree ¼in standard glue sticksks but otherother coloured and glow in thethe dark RAISING THE STAKES glue sticks are availablele Pop Up Glue Dots come on a separately too. handy roll of 75 dots and can be Antex Crafts, craft.antex.co.ukex.co.uk used to create cool 3D effects on cards, scrapbook pages and other paper craft projects. Glue Dots are distributed by West Design Products, www.westdesignproducts.co.uk A LITTLE TO THE LEFT Stick and Spray is a repositionable adhesive, and is the answer to all problems such as matting, layering and when mounting un-mounted stamps. Spray where you need and reposition your stamps up to 30 times! Crafter’s Companion, www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

NO WRINKLESW HERE Beacon’sBeaco Zip Dry is a handy archival A BOND WITH FABRIC qqualityuality and acid free quality glue for Aleene’s Fabric Fusion is a ccrafting.raftin It’s a faster grabber, doesn’t permanent adhesive that offers wwrinklerinkl the paper and will stick the crafters and fashion artists an easy aawkwardwkw stuff. It dries clear but when alternative to a needle and thread. wwetet willw wipe off with a clean finger. This clear-drying, water-based BBeaconeaco adhesives are distributed by adhesive is non-toxic, non-stringing CCreativereati Products Distribution, and machine washable, and creates wwwww.creative-distribution.co.ukw. a permanent bond between fabrics and embellishments. Aleene’s glue is distributed by That’s Original, +44 (0)2381 159 093

craftfocus 103 all kinds of everything What’s happening at this year’s London Stationery Show

With new owners Ocean Media, new initiatives and writing products. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY: and its biggest line-up to date of leading UK The combination of top brands Dates: Tuesday, 25th and Wednesday, 26th and overseas writing and paper brands and and suppliers such as Cross/Sheaffer, April 2017 suppliers, the 2017 London Stationery Show Leuchtturm1917, Caran d’Ache, Moleskine, Venue: Business Design Centre, 52 Upper is on track for its seventh successful year of Lamy, Mustard, NPW, Pyramid, Legami, Street, Islington, London N1 0QH growth. “We know that design-led writing and Portico Designs, Stone Marketing, Two Little Web: www.stationeryshow.co.uk paper products are a hot category for retailers Boys, Nuco, Busy B, Montegrappa, ExaClair, Email: [email protected] – the products are on-trend and seen as an Flame Tree Publishing, Museums &Galleries, Entry: Trade only. Register via the show affordable luxury,” says new Show Director Pomegranate, SemiKolon and new entrants website for free entry Tim Willoughby, COO of Ocean Media. to the UK market from Europe and beyond, Opening times: Tuesday, 25 April 9.30am – Craft and lifestyle retailers have a lot to see make it the ideal event to get a speedy 5pm and Wednesday, 26 April 9.30am – 4pm. at this year’s show – it’s a two-day stationery overview of what’s hot and on trend in National Stationery Week: extravaganza, packed with a fantastic mix of stationery and discover what consumers will Dates: 24th – 30th April 2017 suppliers and brands from around the world be looking for in the run up to Christmas and Web: www.nationalstationeryweek.com offering a huge selection of fashionable paper into 2018. World Stationery Day: NEW INITIATIVES FOR THE 2017 SHOW INCLUDE: Date: Wednesday, 26th April 2017 Web: www.worldstationeryday.com New Creative Hub takes shape Located right in the heart of the exhibition, the show’s new ‘Creative Hub’ will include four workshop tables and a display area all aimed at inspiring retail buyers to add a little theatre to their stores. Exhibitors and craft experts will share their ideas for simple, do-it-yourself demonstrations and workshops from calligraphy to paper art and present wrapping to personalising cards.

LaunchPad competition winners display With the competition to find new and untested stationery designers and suppliers having closed at the end of January, judges have chosen 12 winners to make the most of the space within the special free LaunchPad display area at the show. “The winners will be on one of stationery’s biggest stages and we’re sure they’ll receive plenty of pertinent feedback from show visitors and fellow exhibitors too,” comments The Giftware Association joins the line up Tim Willoughby. “All of which Gifting and self-gifting is a big part of the stationery market and is invaluable for those starting the organisers are delighted to be working with the Giftware out or testing a new market.” Association, a growing number of whose members such as Busy Judges included B, Luckies of London, NSW, Museums & Galleries, Padblocks and Rebecca Saunders, Two Little Boys already successfully exhibit at the show. head of development at “Stationery is a growing part of the gifting market, and we’re leading online retailer delighted to be supporting this initiative. We’ll be encouraging notonthehighstreet.com and our members, both on the supply and retail front, to take this a leading stationery designer. opportunity to review their product offers and think about how stationery-led gifts might work for them,” says Giftware Association Chief Executive, Sarah Ward.

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SHOW FAVOURITES RETURNING TO THE SHOW INCLUDE:

Never stop learning – the show offers a packed Coffee matters! seminar programme Knowing how the industry likes to catch up over a quick cuppa, the Stationery The show is increasing its seminar programme for this year, Show will have not just one but two ‘Coffee Matters’ cafés this year. “As we’re and visitors will be able to sit in on trend updates, advice using the space previously given over to The Hub Café this year as a Creative Hub on making the most of social media, how best to deal with instead, we’ve provided two cafes for visitors and exhibitors this year – both still the latest government legislation along with retailer service providing free teas and coffee!” explained Tim Willoughby. workshops and market data presentations. “Verdict Retail has predicted that the UK stationery market will increase by some £49 million over the next five years. Benefit from National Stationery Week Most of this growth will be driven by increased ranges, more The London Stationery Show is the trade part of the consumer driven National design-led products and stationery being given as gifts – the Stationery Week, and offers retailers a fantastic opportunity to also get involved London Stationery Show is the place to stock up!” says Ocean with the ‘Writing matters’ campaign which aims to keep Britain, including Media’s Tim Willoughby. children, writing. National Stationery Week celebrates the written word and all things stationery, encouraging people across the world to continue to celebrate the art of writing by hand. Stationery Show Awards 2017 “From a store’s perspective, it’s a great opportunity to promote and sell lots The new product showcase is a key reason to visit the show. of stylish and fun writing and paper products, along with design-led social and Situated at the entrance to the show, it features lots of the gift stationery. National Stationery Week provides all the marketing tools a shop new products and is an excellent way to review new styles and needs to get involved online, so it’s easy to benefit from the tremendous publicity products from across the sector. boost that stationery receives during the week,” says Chris Leonard-Morgan, Once again, a panel of retail judges, led by chair Henri Davies founder of National Stationery Week and the show. (independent retail advisor currently working as a buyer for National Stationery Week is now in its sixth year. Last year’s campaign Scribbler and vice-chairman of The Giftware Association) for generated millions of pounds worth of media coverage and additional retail the seventh consecutive year will review and announce the sales, reaching more than 20 million consumers with the message that writing by 2017 winners at the end of the first day of the show. hand is important and plays a vital part in personal communications.

craftfocus 105 Exhibitor’s profiles

Thames and Hudson Kuretake Stand M510 Stand M738 www.thamesandhudson.com www.kuretake.co.uk Thames & Hudson is one of the The ZIG Memory world’s leading publisher of books System Brushables on the visual arts. The company has and ZIG Millennium expanded its product range to include pens are the perfect stationery and gift products that combination for reflect and build on the core values any crafter who love of its list. journaling, and allows The business will be showcasing crafters to personalise the new gift range inspired by one their journal with intricate, precise and colourful detail. of the bestselling books from the Both pens contain a water-based pigment and are designed from summer of 2016 – Herbarium. The range includes giftwrap, a set of note a lightfast and archival quality that allows all journal entries to be cards, and a box of reference cards featuring ‘one hundred herbs to grow, permanent and well preserved. The one-of-a-kind quality about cook and heal’. the twin tipped flexible brush pen consists of two stunning colours; To celebrate its 70th anniversary, the company has also added to one tip is fully pigmented colour while the opposing tip delivers a 50 the Magnum photos gift range a selection of postcard sets featuring per cent tint of the same colour allowing great layering of colour. By iconic shots of Paris and New York. At the show will also be two adding darker colour to the edges of letters it makes brush-lettering products from the new David Hockney Dog Day’s gift range, which stand out. Other uses for these pens include graphic design, consists of a notecard set and sketchbook featuring paintings of his illustration, brush writing and rubber stamping. beloved dachshunds. ExaClair Intelligent Retail Stand M501 Stand M321 www.exaclair.co.uk www.intelligentretail.co.uk ExaClair will be exhibiting a wide variety of Intelligent Retail will be at the traditional and social stationery products show offering the best-of-breed at this year’s show and taking stage will be e-commerce websites that its new lines from Rhodia, containing a range experts can design and implement of boutique notebooks that has seen sales on your website, as well as the increase by approximately 50 per cent in the last year. ability to link it to a Connect till Iderama’s new document wallets will also make their debut at the in your shop – making it so easy show, as will Europa’s new range of A4 notebooks aimed at students to sell in-store and sell online. With and young professionals. “The pads include all the features that appeal Intelligent EPoS, ecommerce and website design linked to a to this market and are sold at an appropriate price point,” says Kevin central stock control. Wharton, Marketing Manager at ExaClair. “But the paper is of a much The company has hundreds of retailers selling across store and higher quality than equivalent products on the market.” web successfully. “You only do things once. It’s beautifully simple, Not-to-be missed is J Herbin’s range of award winning inks and and you work efficiently to increase profits with central stock calligraphy products and Clairefontaine’s new collections of coordinated control and reports,” says Intelligent Retail. and themed notepads, bags, pens and accessories, which will appeal to young stationery fans. Manuscript Pen Company Stand M315 www.calligraphy.co.uk Since 1856, as a result of the association with D. Leonardt & Co, Manuscript has been at the forefront of pen nib manufacture and design. Now more than 150 years later, the company continues along that path combining the traditional elements of writing with new innovative, high quality, fun and diverse writing instruments. In 2017, the popular calligraphy, wax sealing and gift lines will see a complete restyle. New products added to the Callicreative range, include the Crafter markers for use on glass, ceramic and wood; as well as the Flexi markers for larger scale calligraphic work; the hand lettering set with many of our popular new items in one set; and new colours for Manuscript’s best-selling Duotip markers. If that wasn’t enough, the company is excited to bring to market it new high-end Fountain pen range ML1856.

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Butterick Stand M735 www.butterick-vogue.co.uk Peel, stick and decorate, is the call to action from Butterick. Decorating with STAEDTLER Wallies and Wallcandy Stand M541 peel-and-stick wall decals, www.staedtler.co.uk chalkboards and dry erase STAEDTLER’s primary focus at the show will be the Noris Colour – which couldn’t be an easier way is its range of premium colouring pencils – and the wider Noris family. to infuse any room with The Noris brand will benefit from targeted bursts of cinema advertising in style. And when you want 2017 during the Easter period, through the summer and at Christmas, a change just remove, as well as supported by a brand new advertising campaign in key without leaving sticky residue. women’s magazines. Coat Check decals are new this year to the Wallcandy range. The six Also on display will be the full Triplus range, now supported by five witty and colourful designs, which will appeal to children and adults, themed 40-second stop-motion animation videos. The videos will be come complete with coat hooks and screws. showing on the stand, and are available for customers to use on their Wallies Chalkboard is available in panels, sheets, borders, shapes own websites and social media campaigns. In addition the new tins of and colours. Great for keeping track of a busy lifestyle and perfect Triplus fineliner and triplus colour, and the Triplus broad-liner, will be on for budding young artists to express their creativity, you can write show and scheduled for launch in late spring. on chalkboard with chalk or chalk pens and then wipe clean. Finally, STAEDTLER’s international partnership with famous artist Removable and reposition, it can be used on any smooth surface. Johanna Basford continues for 2017 with a comprehensive range of Wallies and Wallcandy, available from Butterick. Johanna Basford endorsed adult colouring packs.

Abrams & Chronicle Books Jakar International Stand M616 Stand M620 www.abramsandchronicle.co.uk www.jakar.co.uk Abrams & Chronicle Books is a distributor of a Jakar International is a family business since 1949, and is the sole wide range of gift items, stationery, and illustrative importers and distributors for the 100 per cent Swiss-made Caran books. Highlights include the V&A’s exhibition d’Ache artists materials and colouring products since 1960, as well catalogues and extensive backlist publishing, as the company’s own branded art, craft and stationery products for as well as Marimekko, Pantone stationery. The more than 68 years. company is pleased to present at the show the The company will be presenting a new range of portfolios, addition of iconic fashion house, Christian Lacroix easels, cutting knives, glitter, pencil cases, pencil sharpeners and Paris stationery and paper gift products to its list. erasers. Caran d’Ache has a new 849 Metal Collection fountain pens, eco-friendly gouache and the School Line range of children’s colouring products including a floor standing and counter Amodex Products Inc top merchandiser. Stand M720 www.amodexink.com Since 1958, Amodex Products has provided its one-of-a-kind, non-toxic, soap formula, stain remover to a world weary of stains. Ths stain remover will work on all inks including permanent and whiteboard marker such as Sharpie and Marks-a-Lot and Expo, and is recommended by the world’s leading ink manufacturers. Amodex is the only stain remover that works on both grease-related stains such as ketchup, and dye-related stains, including hair dyes and wine. It will remove stains on fabrics, upholstery, carpeting, surfaces, and even skin. Amodex is proud to promote the Made in USA product line, sourced entirely from USA company components, and the UK and European countries represent the company’s strongest export markets.

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handmade weddings creative bride This is the perfect time to cash in on the handmade wedding trends and stock products for this sector alongside your other craft offerings

“The average wedding costs more than £20,000 but if you don’t have that sort of budget or want to make finishing touches more personal – here are some great ideas from PlastiKote spray paint.”

A match made in colour Available in 43 colours, PlastiKote Twist & Spray will match any couple’s wedding colour theme. Use in conjunction with PlastiKote Metallic spray paint to complement, and PlastiKote Glass Frosting to give a lovely finish on glass jars to make beautiful tea light holders. Add interest and design with stencils – we used a small length of old lace as a stencil to make the pretty white vase. The lids of small glass jars were sprayed with colour, fill with Lovehearts and finished with a raffia bow. What a lovely wedding favour for your guests to take away to remember your big day! As with all spray paint projects, make sure the surface you are spraying is clean and dry, then apply a couple of coats of spray paint, following instructions on the can. It really is very quick and easy to achieve beautiful decorations and favours that are individual and personal to you. PlastiKote Twist & Spray paint is £7.49, PlastiKote Metallic £7.49 and PlastiKote Glass Frosting £8.99, and all come in 400ml cans.

Plastikote +44 (0)844 7362 235 A way with words www.plastikote.co.uk Crafters will find creating their own handmade wedding stationery easy with this word bundle from Die’sire. With ‘wedding invitation’, ‘RSVP’ and ‘save the date’ in a beautiful script font, the dies will save time and add a professional finish to those invitations. Compatible with the affordable table- top Diamond Press machine from Crafter’s Companion, the line includes a range of different words for weddings, anniversaries as well as new baby cards, so crafters will be able to use them long after their big day too, making them a great investment. See the full range on the website.

Crafter’s Companion +44 (0)1388 660 930 www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

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TOP TABLES Handmade weddings are on trend, rewarding, cheaper in the long run, and can be customised to the bride’s liking.

Club Green has everything that’s needed to create stunning mix and match table settings. These can be made from ribbons, glitter resin sheet and diamante strips that can be used as a sparkly table runner, Peak Dale has a range of paper butterfly place cards in seven different colours. There is a wide products to help with the selection of flowers available in different materials and colours for your ideal wedding: customer’s home making needs whatever the occasion or season. Sweet Trees make the perfect centrepiece and Club Green are a great talking point +44 (0)1483 281 313 for guests. The Sweet [email protected] Tree kit has everything www.clubgreen.com you need to make two trees, which can be decorated with sweets to Bridal stationery complement the wedding Imagine DIY specialise theme. Add sweets, fruit in do-it-yourself or little keepsakes to the wedding invitations and tree for guests to pluck stationery, card making, off during the after embellishments and dinner speeches. craft supplies. The Crackers can be a company uses the great addition to a best quality materials wedding table, making so that crafty couples the celebration go with can make their own a bang. Peak Dale’s wedding stationery coloured, pearly white including invitations, save the date cards, guest books and table and Kraft cracker boards settings. The range is constantly expanding to include innovative will suit any wedding. Just new products and ideas. Check out the exciting ‘Wedding Hub’ for add snaps, ribbon and gifts and decorate the outside to match the useful DIY hints, trends and tips on the website. table display. We particularly like the striking rustic laser cut wedding Card blanks and place setting cards are perfect for making invitations (shown here), which are available with coordinating invitations and topersonalise wedding breakfasts. The cards can insert and envelope. The blank laser cut invitations are an easy also be hand decorated to match the theme too. but effective way to make striking wedding invites.

Peak Dale Products Imagine DIY +44 (0)129 878 447 +44 (0)1437 929 317 www.peakdaleproducts.co.uk imaginediy.co.uk

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Ready-to-decorate papers ExaClair, the UK supplier of Decopatch, has released a new range of papers aimed specifically at the growing number of DIY wedding crafters. The Wedding Flowers range is signified by stylish greens, pinks, yellows and neutral tones, with bold and modern flowery designs. The new papers are complemented by ready-to-decorate maché supports popular in handcrafted weddings, including photobooth props and masks, ballot boxes useful for wedding cards and wedding gifts, and the ever-popular lettering. Kevin Wharton, Marketing Manager at ExaClair, says it’s important for craft retailers to make the most of the hand-made wedding trend, “By creating clever, wedding themed displays retailers can help inspire an already enthusiastic market!”

Decopatch products are distributed by ExaClair +44 (0)1553 696 600 www.exaclair.co.uk

3 ways to inspire crafters to make for weddings:

1. Create a bouquet of wildflowers and wrap with a big organza ribbon bow. 2. Personalise buttonholes with embellishments to complement the bride’s bouquet. 3. Make bridesmaid’s posies with silk flowers and streamer ribbons to match their dresses.

craftfocus 115 interview 117 craftfocus involved in other aspects of the show such or putting forward presentations as product or the new showcase for product products the time worth taking always It’s the catwalk. the shows to those that organised to talk to your promote to on other ways capitalise and products. brand Being part of the team that launched the of the team Being part MK Arena and Event Centre Conference in 2014. or what company ICHF Events, Excluding the most? admire business do you two business professionals actually are There Pete me. Firstly, that have impressed Winkleman, owner of MK Dons, who I’ve What has been your most satisfying What has been your moment in business? At CHSI Stitches, our exhibitors can can our exhibitors CHSI Stitches, At A craft business is a very broad term and can term and is a very business A craft broad woodwork! beer to include anything from businesses that I’ve craft All of the successful have had a few at CHSI Stitches encountered high quality – creativity, things in common and a niche product. you would of advice pieces What three at a exhibiting of thinking anyone to give show? trade your train goals, set to most important It’s the and make that will be on your stand staff by the offered opportunities most of the extra show organiser. by getting presence their stand enhance What would you say are the three key key the three say are you What would craft running a successful elements for business? returning to craft to returning from away 13 years Events after ICHF Fleming as he rejoins Dominic to We talk industrythe craft What does your work involve? work What does your – and strategy commitment Dedication, of team I’m managing a highly talented the sales and working across professionals planning element of the business. CHSI ICHF as for a big focus is always Stitches the industry show for in trade the biggest We’re event and a key Europe, in the calendar. the next the show to on taking working hard a great visitors and level and giving exhibitors show experience. Dominic Fleming, a familiar face to many, many, to face Dominic Fleming, a familiar of Sales ICHF as Head to has returned Dominic has many years and Operations. management and event of exhibition the across and will be working experience as its as well shows consumer company’s CHSI Stitches. show, flagship trade returning to craft

dressmaking and cake decorating, are now pioneering new businesses but really booming. also innovative new lines from well- CHSI Stitches is Europe’s number one trade established businesses. show for the art, craft, needlecraft, fabric and Companies such as Powertex UK, hobby industry. Thousands of retailers, from exhibitors at CHSI Stitches, have amazing large multiples to independents, flock to the textile hardener for sculpting, and really have NEC in Birmingham every year to visit the created an original product that’s taking the show packed with more than 250 exhibitors industry by storm. The company is a great showcasing the latest innovations in the example of a business that has developed worked with personally, and Howard Schultz, creative craft industry. new technology to create an altogether CEO of Starbucks who I’ve only followed different offering, and also carve a brand new from a distance – both are inspired Do you think people’s perception of sector in the craft industry. business leaders. crafting has changed? Yes, crafting, handmade and homemade If you had to name one craft sector to look What do you think would surprise people products have moved much more into the out for this year, what would it be? most about the craft industry? mainstream rather than perceived as niche The craft industry is fast moving – it’s The size of it! In 2014, the UK Craft Council or very small scale. In much the same way as impossible for anyone to predict trends in stated that the craft industry contributed craft beer now has a place on supermarket advance. I know that it will be an exciting nearly £3.4 billion to the economy. This is shelves, high quality craft products and year – we've some big plans for our shows, a huge figure and I doubt anyone outside materials now have a significant place in the which we should be able to announce soon. the industry would imagine it’s quite so mainstream retail market and are readily Talking to our exhibitors, I know that there big. We’re proud to support the industry available to customers. This can only be are a number of amazing new products in through CHSI Stitches and our Bright Sparks a good thing for the industry as crafting development, and at least one of them is Pavilion area gives craft business start-ups the becomes more accessible to a wider range going to strike a chord and take the industry chance to exhibit at a trade show, many for of people. in a new direction. We’ll have to wait and see the first time. which ones! C Have you seen any differences in the What changes have you noticed after 13 types of businesses who are exhibiting at CHSI Stitches 2017 takes place from 19th - years away from the craft industry? the show? 21st February at the NEC, Birmingham. For The wheel has turned while I’ve been working There are some really interesting products further information about exhibiting or outside the craft industry! The sectors in the market place, and new crafts being visiting email [email protected] or call that were struggling in 2003, like sewing, developed all the time, so yes, we’re seeing +44 (0)1425 272 711.

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official media official media partner of Craft partner Top Hobby + Stitch Drawer, 10th – 12th International and proud sponsor of the September 2017 official media partner with Spring th th New Product Showcase Fair, 5 – 9 February 2017 ATTIRE ATTIRE www.craftfocus.com www.giftfocus.com www.attirebridal.comBridal www.attireaccessories.comAccessories @CraftFocus @gift_focus @attirebridal @AttireAccMag

120 craftfocus www.nutscene.com

Twine, unique gifts and iconic Sheila Maid producer.

Fabulous Neon Twines from Nutscene 01307 468589 | [email protected] project 123123 craftfocuscraftfocus Finally decorate with spring and Easter card toppers such as toppers card with spring and Easter Finally decorate Using a compass, cut out two circles with a 18cm diameter with a 18cm diameter cut out two circles Using a compass, using glue dots using the clipped section to the band Attach and two smaller card, the white from two bunny ears Make 8 5 6 7 Thanks to Glue Dots for this spring Glue Dots for Thanks to about the information more project. For visit products company’s www.gluedotseurope.com. Step To make bunny-ears bonnet bunny-ears make To Step Step Step felt chicks, rabbits and flowers. chicks, rabbits felt from the green card to make the brim. From the centre point of both the centre the brim. From make to card the green from out a Cut with a 10cm diameter. an inner circle brims draw green the make 31.5cm to that measures card the green from rectangle the 1cm from a crease make to lengthways and fold band, bonnet Clip inside the 1cm fold. edge. this glue dots for of the brim. We used the ultra-thin the underside to you've joined with the other green and stick where Then cover task. brim. card of the and glue. Use a piece the pink card, from the inner ear ones for the inner and glue to the ears secure to a band make to paper wrapping band. side of the bonet • Lace trim • Lace and card white card, • Green pink card • Small paper the embellishments for and rabbit felt hat –flower, toppers. chick card eggs • Chocolate

4 2 3 1

• Glue Dots stitch • Glue Dots stitch glue squares paper wrapping • Decorative dress for • Template dot polka • Green ribbon organza and • 2 x small buttons buckle diamanté MATERIALS NEEDED MATERIALS

Step Step

Step Step To make paper dress paper make To

How to use Glue Dots’ use How to glue stitch latest a make to squares charming hanging your shop for sure window that’s heads turn to spring delight spring Hang the dress on a baby hanger. on a baby Hang the dress Use the glue dispenser approximately 3mm away from the edge to to the edge from away 3mm Use the glue dispenser approximately together. stick the pieces around place ribbon to of organza and a piece pockets out to Cut and trim the the ribbon, Add the buckle to the middle of the dress. and hem with lace. pocket Cut out with a sharp pair of scissors your chosen dress pattern. There There pattern. your chosen dress of scissors out with a sharp pair Cut or use a sewing choose from online to templates plenty of free are pattern. NEXT ISSUE… Don’t miss the April/May 2017 edition of Craft Focus

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124 craftfocus textile foilstextile by themetre textile foil packs textile craft Visit applicraft.co.uk forinspiration andideas appliglue www.applicraft.co.uk great results from quality products Use withfoil glue, appliglue, doublesided tape, Quality foilsQuality for transfer onto textiles, acrylic, craft packs craft wood, paper, glassandmore... and gluedotsamongstothers textile foilstextile mini textile foilmini textile packs A4 & A5 textile foilsA4 &A5textile craquelure decoupage finish applicraft Enjoyed reading this copy of Craft Focus? Then log on to the Craft Focus website, www.craftfocus.com, to find out how we can help you with your craft business.

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craftfocus 127 making a mark on fabric Julie Bonnar chats to Karen Banfield from THREADS inkjet printers about its revolutionary new way to print on fabrics

Designer Sandra Hagen made the kimono top for product launch on Create and Craft TV launch. It was sewn from 24 A4 panels to show crafters that you can turn individual A4 rectangles into something spectacular.

Indonesian underwater reef print on skirt made with silk crepe de chine worn at Ocean Gala 2016

Sandra Hagen Designs clothing printed on chiffon, charmeuse and crepe de chine silks

Wall hanging made by Sarah Payne with silk charmeuse and cotton poplin fabrics

128 craftfocus up & coming

What made you decide to step into the What types of fabric come in the range mix of performance across these three factors. printable fabrics arena? and what sheet sizes are available? This has been underscored by the I’ve worked in both the science and arts fields. We currently have seven fabrics available. tremendously positive feedback we’ve My brother Logan Meuth, Marketing Director These are cotton received, from well-known UK crafters who for Texlon Corporation, told me about this lawn, cotton love these soft, vivid THREADS and have been new product that they’d developed, and I was poplin, cotton disappointed by those previous stiff, faded intrigued by the idea of a product that used twill, silk chiffon, inkjet fabrics in the past. science in the form of a secret coating on silk charmeuse fabrics that could essentially be a new canvas and two weights What’s been the best seller so far? for artists, crafters or fashion designers. of silk crepe Because we initially focused on the craft de chine. market, we’ve sold a lot more of the cottons Tell us a bit about how this revolutionary THREADS come than the silks. Cotton poplin has been product is made? in common especially popular among quilters, and we THREADS products start with natural fabrics, International moved more into clothing and home décor, either cotton or silk. We coat the fabric rolls and US paper we expect that the silks will be used with the secret formula in our facility in sizes, and A4 more often. Southern California. The coating allows the and A3 sheets fabric to take high-resolution prints without are available in Where and how can UK retailers buy the bleeding, enables washing and yet the fabric the UK. printable fabrics? retains all the original drape and feel. THREADS We’re currently working directly with retailers, After applying the coating, we add a paper also come on shipping the product from the US. We would backing that enables the fabric to easily glide rolls 2.7m and encourage anyone interested in the product through a printer, which can then be peeled 9.1m long, with to contact us at the email address at the end off without any residue. Lastly, we convert widths of 22cm of this feature. (cut) the fabric into specific size to the roll and 33cm. Wide- or sheets. format rolls are Are you in the process of developing available in sizes new products? What can be printed on the fabrics? all the way up I’m sure we’ll eventually introduce new There’s really no limit to what you can print to 142cm by products, but right now we’re focused on on the fabrics. Anything you can print on 9.1m for interior introducing our already broad product line paper, you can print on this fabric. The design projects and clothing. to the widest possible audience in the US coating on THREADS inkjet printable fabrics and Europe. binds with aqueous (water-based) printer Do crafters need a special printer and inks (both dye and pigment inks). You can how easy is the product to use? Is there any exciting new developments in also use water-based pens, stamps, or paints No special printer is needed to use this fabric. the pipeline that you’d like to share with directly on the fabrics without using a printer. Any home inkjet (not laser) printer will work. Craft Focus readers? Any water-based product will bind with the Wide-format printers have many types of ink We’re working on lots of exciting partnerships coating and that’s why we say the magic is in sets so make sure that yours is water-based. – so watch this space! CHA-UK (now known as the THREADS! The fabric sheets are extremely easy-to-use, AFCI.UK) has been instrumental with its help just print, peel and sew! and support. We attended the One Big Show, How can the fabric sheets be used for in June last year, and it introduced us to many crafting and what sorts of items can How are the printable fabrics different of the top players in the UK craft market. be made? from what’s been on the market before? Last November, we launched on Create and The great thing about this product is that it’s From our perspective, for a product to be Craft TV UK and had stellar shows including literally a blank canvas. Crafters are always considered high-performing, it needs to hold some sell-outs. The students at Inkberrow coming up with new and creative ways to high-resolution prints without bleeding, be Design Centre are planning to make us some use it. Many people print photos of family or washable and retain the natural feel of the fabulous, over-the-top catwalk outfits for the events, and include them in craft projects. original fabric without requiring additional CHSI Stitches show. C People also use THREADS to personalise their processing such as applying spray protector designs. You can use any software to add or ironing to set the ink. While there have been THREADS Inkjet Printable Fabrics people’s names, dates or greetings to make seemingly similar products available on the [email protected] truly personal and one-of-a-kind items. market before, none have achieved the same www.printablefabrics.com

craftfocus 129 creating your own Julie Bonnar puts ‘Create your Own’ tote bag kit from Thames & Hudson’s Craft Studio series through its paces “Who doesn’t like a gift? It’s a fact that half of money spent for every special occasion such as a birthday, anniversary, Easter, Christmas and Valentine’s goes on giving gifts so there are plenty of selling opportunities – and Craft kits make great gifting ideas for all sorts of crafters.”

What I like about the kit is that it has been HOW TO USE IT designed for beginners but it’s also great Tote bags were initially used by brands inspiration for more advanced crafters who to advertise themselves and promote want to design their own bags. I decided to sustainability as an alternative to plastic bags. take a favourite design slogan/image and This kit gives you an easy pattern for making a transfer it onto the bag and add a ready- basic tote bag, as well as a series of ideas for made embroidered motif. personalising and customising it to your taste. You can use different techniques to make REASONS TO STOCK the bags and crafters can use skills that they’re familiar with, such as sewing, embroidery, • The kit will appeal to a wide market and painting, dyeing, transfers and stamping. Each retails at £12.95. project has been assigned a particular level of • No previous experience is necessary. difficulty, but all are within reach of even the • There’s another kit in the Craft Studio most absolute beginner. series is called ‘Create Your Own’ Brooches It’s really quite easy to get started – simply to encourage repeat business. THE PRODUCT read and flick through the book to decide • The striking kits comes in vibrant robust whether to make one of the step-by-step neon box so will stack easy and stand out The modern Craft Studio series from inspired bag ideas or use the techniques on the shelf. Thames & Hudson now includes a series described to make your own design. of starter kits that will appeal to all sorts All the motifs for the tote bags are included in of crafters. The kits contain the original the back of the book so all the crafter need do Thames and Hudson project books (in miniature) with all the is enlarge and copy using a home printer. The +44 (0)20 7845 5000 materials to get making and customising basic embroidery stitches are also shown so [email protected] tote bags ideas along with two pre-made you can replicate any of the designs. www.thamesandhudson.com canvas tote to get you started. The ‘Create Your Own’ tote bag kit comes in an eye-catching orange neon box, In a recent poll, 86 per cent of our readers told us they would find it beneficial to know about and is perfect for giving as a gift, as well new products as they come to the market. Tried & Tested puts the latest products through as getting new customers interested in their paces so if you have a product to feature, get in contact with Julie Bonnar at editor@ crafting. The kit retails at £12.95. craftfocus.com.

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