boost autumn trade Halloween crafts to the season ahead Beautiful yarns for GLORY Crowning Coming up MARKET BUYER’S • Restructuring your business • Festival ofQuilts • Autumn Fair PLUS pumpkins Smashing product inspiration 29 pages ofnew Issue 68 August/September 2018 www.craftfocus.com

HOLIDAY www.craftf This year’s Christmasessentials LOOK SHARP SPIRIT Latest on-trend cactus designs ocus.com

August/September 2018 issue 68

Editor Andrea Ashfield +44 (0)1376 514 000 [email protected] Chief Sub Editor contents Louise Prance Marketing Manager Michael Richards +44 (0)1376 538 481 regulars [email protected] Industry news 7 Sales Manager Sarah Mclean What’s happening within the craft and +44 (0)1376 538 490 hobby market [email protected] 99 Account Manager Brand spanking new 15 Tracy Voice shows +44 (0)1376 535 618 Latest product launches for August [email protected] and September Shows, news & events 23 Production Manager Keep up-to-date with what’s happening in Scott Brothwell Bookstand 54 your industry Senior Graphic Designers A selection of craft-related book releases Chloe Edey, Stephanie Hodder, Golden opportunities 31 Vicky O’Connor, Sarah Young +44 (0)1376 535 616 Editor’s picks 70 What’s coming up at Autumn Fair this September [email protected] The spookiest Halloween purchases Production Assistant Stitching the future 95 Charlotte Potter Tying the knot 99 Highlights from The Festival of Quilts Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley Make this stylish macramé plant hanger Subscriptions Beth Varney 31 +44 (0)1376 514 000 KD Media Publishing Limited Pantile House, Newlands Drive Witham, Essex, CM8 2AP, UK craftfocus.com

Front cover image: King Cole kingcole.com

ISSN 1758-0900

Craft Focusis solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing Limited. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information 15 features in this magazine was correct at the time of going Woolly thinking 37 to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor Get ready for new yarn season can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The 67 Deck the shelves 45 views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Craft Focus is published six times Looking ahead to the festive sales period a year. Subscription rates for overseas readers are £75 per annum (incl. p+p), Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing Limited and sent Get set go! 57 to Craft Focus, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Craft kits your customers will love Witham, Essex, CM8 2AP, United Kingdom.

Craft Focus magazine is proud to be Look sharp 67 associated with and supporters of: We reveal this year’s most prickly trend

Born in the USA 75 Craft suppliers from across the pond

Sugar & spice 83 Modern trends in baking and sugarcraft

Stuck on you 89 The latest adhesive products

craftfocus 3 108 TRADE-WIRES.CO.UK

focus on Sweet success 34 We chat with Siobhan Lees from FMM Sugarcraft

A stitch in time 64 Queen of cross stitch Amanda Butler reveals the tricks of the trade

Spinning around 72 Behind the scenes with yarn supplier, King Cole

Out of this world 79 Everything you need to know about Creative World of Crafts Unit 3, Zone A Chelmsford Road Industrial Estate, Tried & tested 108 Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 1HD Tracy Voice gets to grips with Needcraft’s lampshade-making kit Tel: 01371 238 013

business advice 64 How to grow your business 86 Sara Davies advises on restructuring from within

Eyes on the prize 92 Michael O’Connor talks prizes and giveaways

Hedging your bets 102 Jeremy Cook looks at trading overseas

Strategic planning 104 Kay Tilbury explains why social media is such a powerful tool

Word count 106 More business advice from David Fairhurst

4 craftfocus SAME DAY DISPATCH WHEN YOU ORDER BEFORE 2PM INTERNATIONAL DELIVERY IS AVAILABLE. Please contact for prices

— WHOLESALE HABERDASHERY SUPPLIERS — Hello autumn Our huge range includes: ;Ѵ|vķ$ubllbm]vķ-1;ķ†‚omvķ At the time of writing, Britain is basking under !b00omķ";t†bmvķ b-l-m|;vķoঞ=vķ,brvķou7vķ$_u;-7ķ uo7;ub;m]Ѵ-bvķ ;-|_;uvķ Ѵo‰;uvķub7-Ѵķbm];ub;11;vvoub;vķ clear blue skies, and autumn feels like a lifetime -0;u7-v_;u‹ķѴ†m‹-1;ķ-m7l†1_ķl†1_lou;ĺĺĺ away. In reality, however, there’s just a few short weeks until cooler weather heralds the start of the Our new guipure busiest months in the retail calendar, and if you trimmings and stretch haven’t done so already, now is the time to plan lace are on special your strategy for the season ahead. offer this month. See We’ve got lots to get you started in this issue, website for details. with 29 pages of inspirational products that Please visit us our new website=ouo†u=-m|-vঞ17;-Ѵv-m7|o shoppers will love. From the whimsical to the practical, we think we’ve v;;o†u1olrѴ;|;u-m];o=ruo7†1|v-m7rub1;vĺ got everything covered, including Halloween supplies that won’t scare your customers away, the latest wool and crochet must-haves and a look www.mcourts.co.uk at the Christmas products that are set to fly off the shelves in the run up /mcourtsltd to this year’s big day. Also inside, we speak to some of the industry’s most creative minds, 31 COMMERCIAL ROAD ҋ EDMONTON ҋ LONDON ҋ N18 1TP including queen of cross stitch Amanda Butler, who reveals her love of Tel: 0208 884 0999 Fax: 0208 884 4666 Email: [email protected] craft and shares some of her sources of inspiration. There’s sugarcraft know-how from FMM’s Siobhan Lees, while Caroline Symonds and Philippa Warford from King Cole tell us what’s coming up in yarn and patterns. We also speak to super-supplier Creative World of Crafts about the trends that will be making the headlines over the next few months.

Enjoy readingn

a AndreaAndrea Ashfield Editor

Editor’s pick Cactuses are everywhere this year, and we’ve rounded up some of our favourite succulents for you in this issue, including this colourful felt pincushion kit by Corinne Lapierre. Visit corinnelapierre.com or turn to page 67 for more prickly favourites.

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craftfocus 5

industry news industry news A roundup of latest news from the crafting industry

CRAFTER’S COMPANION INVESTS IN RETAIL GROWTH Crafter’s Companion has appointed a new Head of Retail after experiencing a 12 per cent increase in UK sales from 2016/2017 to 2017/2018. Helen Hollings joins the multimillion-pound business from Joules clothing and will be responsible for introducing commercial retail practices and improved workshop programmes across the company. Drawing on a wealth of senior retail management experience, Helen will take ownership of the team’s professional development, and will also help to improve product selection and optimise spending. “Helen’s appointment as head of retail will ensure that the business continues to move forwards in terms of retail development,” says Crafter’s Companion founder, Sara Davies MBE. “Our existing stores, coupled with our ever-expanding product portfolio provide us with an excellent foundation for growth, and Helen understands that our people-oriented culture is key to this. I look forward to working with her in supporting and investing in our team in order to expand Crafter’s Companion’s estate and ultimately keep increasing our turnover.” Helen adds, “The craft industry is fascinating to me and I’m thrilled with the opportunity to work on developing retail as part of our multi-channel business. I’m experienced in reshaping in-store operations and I am impressed with the growth opportunities that exist at Crafter’s Companion. I’m confident that I can help take the business to a higher level in terms of current retail contribution.” The company opened two retail outlets in Newton Aycliffe and Chesterfield during 2016 and a third store in Evesham in 2017, complementing its presence online and in thousands of stores around the world. The business currently employs more than 160 staff, selling products online, through its own outlets and independent retailers, as well as presenting workshops and demonstrations in store and on TV in the UK, US and Germany. Visit crafterscompanion.co.uk for details. CRAFT RETAILER RAISES £1M FOR CHARITY High street retailer Hobbycraft has raised £1 million for children’s hospices, with customers and staff working together in support of its charity partnership with Together for Short Lives. The milestone comes in the same year that Hobbycraft also hit one million transactions through its till-point ‘pennies’ donation scheme. The partnership also won the craft giant recognition at the Business Charity Awards. In an effort to raise funds, the Chief Executives of both organisations scaled a 175ft cliff in the dark and abseiled back down through fog. Staff members also took part in the fun, with 38 employees embarking on a 22-mile trek through the South Downs. “We were ecstatic to learn that we’d won a Business Charity Award for our work with Together for Short Lives,” says Dominic Jordan, Chairman and CEO. “We’ve been working together for many years and it’s an inspirational charity. We were up against some tough competition, so it’s great to see crafting come out on top.” Visit hobbycraft.co.uk for more information.

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FABRIC POUND STORE LAUNCHES Adam Ross Fabrics has launched an online fabric pound store. The new consumer website features more than 100 product lines, each priced at £1 per metre. It includes a range of prints, as well as polyesters, chiffons and georgettes, with new stock added each week. “We are always looking at new ways to innovate our offering and deliver the very best experience for our valued customers,” says founder and director, Faisal Ahmed. “This brand-new offer is the first of its kind in the industry.” Go to poundfabrics.co.uk to find out more.

MESSE FRANKFURT AIMS FOR €700 MILLION IN SALES Show organiser Messe Frankfurt experienced a successful start to 2018, and expects around €700 million in sales in the second six months of the year. Transactions have increased by around 50 per cent since 2010, from €448 million to approximately €669 million in 2017. The company has also consolidated its worldwide network to include 30 subsidiaries, with new additions in the UK and China. “If everything goes to plan, the exhibitor record of 95,000 CRAFT BREAKS IN DEVON companies that we set in financial year 2017 will be broken once Billed as the UK’s only craft resorts, The Manor House and Ashbury again,” says Detlef Braun, member of the Executive Board of Messe Hotels in Devon offer a full range of creative family breaks, even Frankfrut GmbH. “Our events are growing in depth and breadth, when it rains. Each day, guests at the two luxurious properties with a high international component and levels of satisfaction can choose from more than 70 craft, sport and spa activities, with among our customers. As an event organiser and marketing partner, a flexible programme that allows each person to take part in as linking together different perspectives and industry sectors creates little or as much as they choose. Crafts on offer include pottery, space for new projects, business models, cooperative measures and glass engraving, pyrography, personalised hot press printing target groups.” and woodwork, while sports fans can enjoy a full programme After two years of construction work, Hall 12 is set to join the that features tennis, bowls, badminton, swimming, snooker and company’s network in September, further enhancing the range of archery. A range of talented live acts will also be performing trade fair services at its Frankfurt base. Visit messefrankfurt.com for each week throughout the rest of the summer season. Visit latest show news. manorhousehotel.co.uk for details.

8 craftfocus industry news

FASHION COLLABORATION FOR ROYAL SCHOOL £20M GOVERNMENT BOOST FOR CREATIVE INDUSTRIES OF NEEDLEWORK Arts minister Michael Ellis has launched a £20 million fund for culture, The Royal School of Needlework has announced a new heritage and the creative industries to benefit towns and cities across collaboration with menswear label E. Tautz. Signature England. Areas will be able to bid for up to £7 million for projects to help pieces from the latest designer collection were hand- with regeneration, new jobs and investment. This could include spaces embroidered by RSN degree students and launched at for creative businesses, bringing historic buildings back into use or London Fashion Week. redeveloping museums and art galleries. The measures will help to grow The work, entitled Give Me a Future, is intended to be local economies. a modern-day demonstration of the labour movement The Cultural Development Fund is intended to mark a new approach to in British history. It features symbols and slogans that government investment in culture and the creative industries. Rather than appeared on placards during the Miners’ Strikes, a vintage going to specific venues or artform, it will focus on geographical locations, trades union banner and a cartoon from an 1848 edition of including rural areas. Ministers are also aiming to boost productivity and Punch magazine. Students used appliqué and goldwork to make places more attractive to live in, work and visit. hand-stitch each intricate design. “Cultural investment can have a transformative impact on the UK’s “The work has provided our students with the opportunity communities,” explains Michael Ellis. “Creativity, culture and heritage is to gain hands-on experience in the world of fashion, what makes places special for local people and visitors alike, but it also which is a vital part of their course,” says Angie Wyman, helps attract inward investment, with businesses drawn to vibrant, exciting Course Leader, BA (Hons) Hand Embroidery for Fashion, towns and cities. This initiative gives more places the chance to harness Interiors and Textile Art at RSN. “It also enabled us to the power of culture to regenerate communities, create jobs and boost contribute to this powerful story and showcase traditional tourism.” The Fund will be administered through Arts Council England. hand embroidery skills in a very visual way.” Go to royal- Visit artscouncil.org.uk for more information. needlework.org.uk for details.

SOMERSET OPEN STUDIOS RETURNS IN SEPTEMBER Featuring nearly 300 artists across some 200 venues, Somerset Open Studios is now the largest event in the county for visual artists and makers. This year it runs from 15th-30th September and offers a rare opportunity to view established, new and emerging artists for free in their working environment. Disciplines will include ceramics, sculpture, metalwork, textiles, wood, jewellery and glass. Artists will be working in studios, homes and temporary spaces, allowing craft enthusiasts to see what goes on behind the scenes. There will also be a programme of demonstrations, workshops and talks. Visit somersetartworks.org.uk for details.

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industry news

BLAKE ENVELOPES ANNOUNCES CHARITY PARTNERSHIP Blake Envelopes will be partnering with the charitable organisation School in a Bag, as part of its enhanced corporate social responsibility program. The stationery specialist is hoping the initiative will benefit the lives of thousands of school children across the globe. “We are keen to ensure that we can measure the impact of all our activity,” says Innovation and Marketing Director Tim Browning. “Our mission is to support social mobility for children by ensuring they have access to the materials they need to learn and be educated. There are millions of young people in the world who will never go to school and this will continue to be denied from them, unless we can make a difference.” The partnership was formally launched in July with a special charity day, and more than £10,000 was raised to fund school bags. “The event and the funds we have contributed has helped over 600 children,” continues Tim. “We would like to thank all our business partners who engaged with us to exceed CONTEMPORARY CRAFTS ON SHOW AT KEW our first target and look forward to their ongoing support.” Find out more at schoolinabag.org More than 150 designers will be on hand at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, from 4th-7th October for Handmade at Kew. The fourth edition of the contemporary craft and design event will showcase the work of international and UK-based artists, with textiles, jewellery, ceramics, glass and furniture on display. Tickets will also include access to the gardens, allowing visitors a chance to enjoy its beautiful glasshouses and stunning blooms while browsing, buying or commissioning work. Handmade at Kew also offers the opportunity to unearth the stories, inspirations and processes behind each work and view latest collections up close. For more information, go to handmadeinbritain.co.uk/kew

TOY FAIR OPENING IN OLYMPIA THIS JANUARY Toy Fair 2019 will return to Olympia, London from 22nd – 24th January, welcoming a huge range of toy and hobby manufacturers and distributors to the show. Featuring both start-ups and well-known brands, the show has already secured an 81 per cent re-booking rate for returning exhibitors. Big names will include Spin Master, Ravensburger, Fiesta Crafts, Golden Bear and Orchard Toys. Retailers and buyers will be able to view a selection of new and forthcoming trends. “We are very much looking forward to welcoming back such a large number of visiting companies,” says Majen Immink, Director of Fairs and Special Events. “It’s encouraging to have received so many applications, and we are extremely appreciative of the support the industry continues to provide the show. We have already received an exciting number of new enquiries and look forward to attracting fresh faces from the industry as we seek to put on another busy three days.” The fair is organised by The British Toy and Hobby Association, which is committed to supporting new companies as part of the fair’s Greenhouse Area. This centrally-located zone is dedicated to smaller and start-up companies looking to make their mark within the industry. Over the years, this initiative has acted as a launchpad for numerous toy and game companies seeking the opportunity to meet some of the country’s top buyers. Due to its popularity, it was extended by 80 square metres last year, and will occupy the same space again in 2019. Find out more at toyfair.co.uk

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brand spanking new brand spanking new Latest products for August and September

LetterLetter for letterletter CraftfoamCraftfoam is a versatileversatile material material that that can can be be used used to to make make eyeye-e- catching models and decorations. The product is rigid and easy to shape, and can be used to form homemade stamps, which will last long enough to provide hours of fun, even after being dipped Wow factor in paint. The foam comes in useful sheet sizes and a range of There’s a range of new products available from Wow Embossing thicknesses, and can be used for sculpting and shaping seasonal Powder this autumn, including Spearmint Fab Foil, which is out decorations. It comes in green or grey, and can be painted with now, and the Blossom stamp, coming soon. Also pictured here are oil-based colours. A ready-to-use number and letter format is also stamp and die sets by Pink & Main. available and the foam can be delivered anywhere in the UK.

+44 (0)870 777 8781 +44 (0)114 249 5626 wowembossingpowder.com craftfoam.co.uk

Little wonders Joining Creative Beadcraft’s extensive Czech glass collection, these pretty two- hole beads by Preciosa are easy to use, and work especially well with staples such as fire-polished and seed beads. Their gentle curve means House party they combine New from three-dimensional cross stitch experts, The Nutmeg beautifully with Company, this beautiful mansion house sewing box features a the two-hole removable tray, while the interior is worked in a Victorian tile candy beads shown here, and they can also be used to create more pattern. Accessories are also available, including a needle case, complex Swarovski designs. Free downloadable patterns are available, scissor case, pincushion and a tray for bits and beads. The house and beads are supplied loose, in hanging tubes or as starter selections. retails at £79.99, while each smaller set costs £13.95.

+44 (0)1494 786 924 +44 (0)1748 884 926 creativebeadcraft.co.uk 3dcrossstitch.co.uk

craftfocus 15 brand spanking new

Girl power Now available to order from Search Press, Feminist Felties is a quirky new craft book that provides everything your customers need to make a powerful political statement in a subversively Drama llama homespun way. Author Missy Covington shows readers how to use Mouseloft has added this quirky llama design to its popular Stitchlets craft-store felt to make a variety of projects that are as edgy as they range. The new one-off kit retails at £2.39, and fits within a 64mm are whimsical, including a gallery of feminist icons in badge form. It diameter circle for framing. It comes with Aida fabric, DMC threads, a retails at £9.99. needle and full, easy-to-follow instructions. +44 (0)1892 510 850 +44 (0)1477 533 566 searchpress.com mouseloft.co.uk

Material gains Sunny days Edding’s latest range This stunning of textile pens and Mediterranean markers provide harbour scene brilliant, long-lasting from Riolis depicts effects even when the Italian town of fabric is washed at Linguria, nestled 60 degrees. The pens into a cliff face and will work on canvas, showing brightly cotton, silk and linen, coloured homes and and the quick-drying ocean views. The water-based ink won’t counted cross stich fade. The collection design is reproduced is now available with on 14 count white a new retail-ready Aida with wool/ packaging format. acrylic threads, which hold dye well +44 (0)1727 846 688 and produce a deep edding.com colour effect. The finished kit measures 40cm x 30cm and retails at £45.99.

+44 (0)161 464 7313 solocrafts.com

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Victorian Mansion Sewing Box and matching accessories

Unique Cross Stitch Kits Available from The Nutmeg Company

The Nutmeg Company Unit 14 Reeth Dales Centre Reeth DL11 6SP 01748884926 [email protected] brand spanking new

Make your mark Appealing to both general users and hobbyists, Staedtler’s metallic markers are especially popular in the run-up to Christmas. The versatile pens are available in six brilliant colours – gold, silver, pink, green, blue and new for 2018, violet. Gold and silver can be purchased singly, together in a blister card format or in tubs of 30. An added value wallet containing all six shades and a chisel tip pigment liner is also included in the collection. The pens are ideal for scrapbooking, artwork and writing greeting cards, and work equally well on light and dark paper. Staedtler also has a new space-saving countertop display, which holds 100 loose pens.

+44 (0)845 600 5930 staedtler.co.uk

Personal touch FolkArt Glitterific contains multiple-sized glitter particles suspended in a crystal-clear base to provide a dazzling paint effect. The product comes in 20 striking colours, and can be used on wood, metal, glass, canvas, paper, decorative fabrics and rigid plastic. It’s available from Personal Impressions.

+44 (0)1787 375 241 personalimpressions.com

Out of the woods Available from Crafter’s Companion, Threaders’ range of stencils, masks and Holiday fun co-ordinating stamp sets Launched earlier this year, The Great Tour board game takes players make it easy to add creative on an adventure across Europe. This fun product transports tourists flair to a range of projects. between the great cities of the continent, from La Scala in Milan to the Inspired by the beauty Arc de Triomphe in Paris, taking in other great destinations along the of the British woodland, way. The player who collects the most points will be victorious. It’s each one includes an outer available from Tactic Games. stencil and inner mask piece, complete with a co- +44 (0)1483 332 979 ordinating detail stencil. tacticgames.co.uk Crafters can use a range of mediums to create a striking focal point, and combine stencils to transfer silhouettes onto fabric, papercraft and mixed-media projects. The co-ordinating mask will also protect the design, enabling the user to build up backgrounds and scenes. The product can be used to craft outlines for a range of skilled techniques including embroidery and appliqué.

+44 (0)1388 660 930 crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

craftcraftfocusfocus 1919 brand spanking new

Deck the halls Wedding bells ExaClair has added a new festive Michael’s Bridal Fabrics has added a number of exquisite new lines to paper maché tree to its seasonal its extensive collection. Latest designs include three heavily crystalized collection. The contemporary back panels featuring varying lengths of crystal loops with a motif on product selection also includes each shoulder. A third has rigid banks and is available in champagne reindeer and Christmas trees, colouring. “There’s a new French edging that has feathers attached and is available in both textured in ivory and has already become very popular with customers,” says and standard versions. The Michael Bristow from the family business. “Other current features tree support stands at 39cm include edgings, motifs and fabrics with trellis and lattice sections. We tall and is constructed from also have designs featuring all-over trellis patterns that co-ordinate triangular pieces, giving it a perfectly. There are new embroidery lines with 3D laser-cut panels, thoroughly modern look. “We some of which are digitally printed, which gives an exclusive effect to know Christmas is an important every piece of fabric sold.” time for craft enthusiasts, who are looking for new ways to decorate +44 (0)1322 380 480 their homes,” says Clement Rouillard, Marketing Manager. “The new michaelsbridalfabrics.co.uk products add to a varied and exciting selection of Christmas Décopatch Paper trail papers and accessories that also include advent calendars, Santas, We love this stunning new range of recycled papers from Imagine sleighs, tree decorations and much more.” Crafts. Made from recycled cotton and covered with metallic or glitter prints, each design oozes style and charm. It’s sold in A4 +44 (0)1553 696 600 sheets. The company also stocks lace, ribbons, bows and string via exaclairlimited.com its new website, ragdollribbons.co.uk

+44 (0)1437 807 277 imaginediy.co.uk

Fashion focus Hantex has unveiled the latest range of patterns by Allie Olson, including this stylish Corum top and dress. The design features bust and shoulder Feathered friends darts for shaping, and is These fabulous owls are part of the new VDV bead embroidery particularly well-suited range from Solocrafts. The stunning design is printed on soft satin- to woven fabrics with feel fabric, with pre-sorted Precosia beads that are stitched using a drape. The sleeve cuffs single length of thread. The image is built up one section or row at offer a clean finish, while a time, which means beads are evenly spaced and lay in the same a curved dolphin hem direction. The kit measures 26cm x 36cm, uses 184 grams of beads provides visual interest. and retails at £53.99. +44 (0)1754 820 800 +44 (0)161 464 7313 hantex.co.uk solocrafts.com

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shows and events shows, news and events Our roundup of this season’s most unmissable events

STATIONERY SHOW MANCHESTER CANCELLED DIARY DATES Ocean Media Group has announced that this year’s Stationery Show Autumn Fair Manchester has been cancelled, citing the tough retail market, cautious 2nd - 5th September, 2018 buyers and uncertain suppliers as reasons not to run the event. The second edition of the show NEC Birmingham had been due to take place at Emirates Old Trafford on the th9 and 10th October, 2018. autumnfair.com “We feel the level of uncertainty in the market is too high to expect our exhibitors to risk supporting a new show,” explains Event Manager, Hazel Fieldwick. “We appreciate the trust and Creativeworld support of companies who had committed to our Manchester show, and we will ensure that all 26th - 29th January, 2019 of them are recognised accordingly.” Frankfurt am Main The announcement came just days after this year’s LaunchPad competition opened for creativeworld.messefrankfurt.com entries, and those already received will be carried forward to next year’s Stationery Show London. “It is frustrating to walk away from an event that the whole team was working hard CHSI Stitches on and looking forward to, but we cannot ignore the economic realities stationery industry 17th - 19th February, 2019 suppliers are currently facing,” adds Hazel. NEC Birmingham Ocean Media is now focusing its efforts on the London show, which will return for chsi.co.uk its ninth edition at the Business Design Centre on 30th April and 1st May, 2019. Visit stationeryshowlondon.co.uk for the latest details.

300+ COMPANIES REGISTER FOR CREATIVEWORLD it attracts buyers from all over the world, which makes it an important More than 300 manufacturers have already signed up for next year’s platform for us,” he explains. “We anticipate making contact with Creativeworld, which takes place at Frankfurt am Main from 26th to 29th potential customers for our export business at the same time as January, 2019. Preparations for the event are already in full swing. “We presenting our latest products to German retailers.” are very pleased with the number of registrations received and are Nils Knapp, CEO of H.Schmincke, is also looking forward to the keenly looking forward to Creativeworld 2019,” says Michael Reichhold, event. “The fair gives us the opportunity to meet the world’s most Show Director. “Our planning for the hall layout and the multi-faceted important players from our sector at the beginning of 2019,” he says. programme of events is also well advanced.” “This meeting place has been established for years and has proven its Each year Creativeworld brings together an unrivalled spectrum of worth many times.” craft trends from across the world. Some of the industry’s key players In addition to well-known brands and young companies, are already signed up to return, including C. Kreul, Clairefontaine, Creativeworld will also feature a programme of events, and The Creativ Company, Efco Kreativ, Folia, Marabu, Rayher Hobby, Rico Creative Impulse Award will also return. Visitors will include those Design and Staedtler. “We will be coming back again to present our from the wholesale, retail and specialist trade, as well as home new DIY products to trade visitors at Creativeworld,” says Britta Olsen, improvement companies and garden centres, internet and mail order Brands and Communication Director at Staedtler. “Our products can suppliers and commercial consumers. “Our concept has proven its be tried and tested at the fair, in keeping with our company motto, worth and been accepted by both trade and industry,” adds Michael. ‘release your creativity’.” “Creativeworld is the ideal business, trend and order platform for this Also attending is Klaus Fliegerbauer, CEO at Eburhard Faber Vertrieb sector.” Visit creativeworld.messefrankfurt.com for the latest news GmbH. “We will be represented at the coming Creativeworld because and updates.

craftfocus 23 shows, news and events

PAPER AWARD FINALISTS TO BE ANNOUNCED The finalists of this year’s PaperAwards for Top Drawer autumn/winter 2018 will be announced on 20th August. Now in its fifth edition, the initiative celebrates design, creativity and innovation within the greetings and stationery industry. Judges for the event include Holly Tucker, co-founder of notonthehighstreet.com and Holly & Co, Emma Hawkis from Fortnum & Mason and Hazel Walker from Paperchase. Applications closed on August 3rd and consist of three categories: exciting use of colour, emotive design and engaging print. All finalists will have their work featured at Top Drawer, and the winner of each category will receive a prize worth £1,000. The show’s organiser Clarion will also be relaunching PaperPitch, an informal 10-minute timeslot that will see exhibitors showcase their products to a panel of retailers representing different markets including independent, online, department stores and multiple retailers. Top Drawer will take place from 9th-11th September at Olympia London, and will feature more than 1,000 design- ASIAN GIFTS & PREMIUMS SET FOR RECORD ATTENDANCE led brands across home, gift, fashion, craft, greetings, Organised by Comasia Limited, this year’s annual Asian sourcing extravaganza stationery, food and play. Go to topdrawer.co.uk for details. will include four concurrent shows, all taking place between 20th and 23rd October at the Hong Kong Exhibition and Convention Centre. The event has become a regular for buyers across the region who are looking for on-trend gifts and premiums, housewares, home décor, toys and games. The enormous fair has become increasingly important over the last two decades, and in 2017, it featured 1,342 exhibitors from 19 different countries and regions. More than 37,000 international import and export houses, wholesalers, distributors, agents, mail order companies and retailers from 130 countries attended the show. The 2018 edition is set to showcase a wider and more varied selection, catering for buyers’ needs and introducing new trends. Highlights will include a Design Studio, where buyers will be able to meet talented young designers and start-up companies. Go to asiangnp.com for more information. CONSUMER SHOW NEWS MAKE IT MOVES TO NEW VENUE Based in Farnborough, Hampshire Make It and Knit & Stitch is a major consumer exhibition for companies that want to meet and sell to thousands of papercraft, card-making, needlecraft and home hobby enthusiasts. The next event will take place on the 22nd and 23rd February 2019, and will move to a new exhibition centre at Farnborough airport. Over 10,000 visitors are expected to attend. Crafters will be able to try their hand at traditional and cutting edge techniques, and the show will include high profile brands and niche companies with a range of new designs and products. “We are so pleased to announce that Make It and Knit & Stitch will have a brand new venue for 2019,” says Show Organiser, Kate Valentine. “We are constantly striving to deliver the most exciting and hands-on event in the crafting calendar. We offer visitors the chance to get involved with free make and takes, live demos and an extensive workshop programme. We aim to ensure we have something for everyone who attends – the show gives our visitors an ultimate craft experience.” For stand availability and costs, go to make-it.org.uk

24 craftfocus Sweet Poppy Stencils Stencils of Distinction and Quality

2018 New Releases Sweet Poppy stencils & our NEW outline Buddy Dies

Stencil Mediums, Paints, Glitters, Mica Powders and much more www.sweet-poppy.com 44 (0)1775 527442 • [email protected] shows, news and events

CREATIVE CRAFT SHOW HEADS TO MANCHESTER The latest edition of the Creative Craft Show will take place in Manchester from 6th – 8th September. The event will feature a host of mediums including knitting, cross stitch, papercraft, jewellery, textiles, dressmaking and stitching, and visitors will be able to find everything from kits, charts and patterns to tools and accessories. Highlights will include the chance to see a collection of giant hand- stitched works by Taiwanese artist Yao Ming Chien. Yao has been deaf from birth, but after arriving in the UK in 1993 he studied English Sign Language and became interested in embroidery. One of his most elaborate pieces, Heavenly Kiss, took four months to complete. The National Needlework Archive will also be presenting an exhibition of vintage handbags, and there will be a full programme of workshops and demonstrations. For details, visit stitchandhobby.co.uk

HANDMADE FAIR TO DELIGHT HAMPTON COURT Kirstie Allsopp’s Handmade Fair will return to Hampton Court Palace from 14th – 16th September, 2018. It will feature a wealth of hands-on workshops from some of the industry’s most talented designers, and aims to delight craft enthusiasts for the fifth year running. Visitors can get involved with a variety of different skills, from willow weaving and needle felting to lino cutting and brush lettering, not to mention painting, sewing, papercraft and other handmade techniques for beginners and more experienced enthusiasts alike. Creative sessions will fall into one of four categories: paint and print, home and garden, sewing and textiles and paper and pens, giving visitors a wide range of choice. The show will also feature a selection of stalls where tools and materials can be purchased. At the fair’s skills workshops, attendees will be able to satisfy their creative cravings in a series of one-hour interactive sessions. This year’s experts will include Lauren Cooper of Oh Wonder Calligraphy, Eddie Glew from Blithfield Willowcrafts, who will show visitors how to make a birdfeeder and Tess Hucker of the Arty Craft Place, who will encourage visitors to try their hand at Indian block painting. “I am immensely proud that The Handmade Fair will be celebrating its fifth year on The Green at Hampton Court – it’s set to be better than ever,” says Kirstie. “We have a raft of incredibly talented producers and crafters on board that I’m really excited to see in action. It’s going to be a joyous few days of crafting in a beautiful setting, and we’ll all be taking home new skills and wares to improve our homes and, dare I say, lives. I can’t wait!” For details, visit thehandmadefair.com/hampton-court

26 craftfocus

shows, news and events

BEST OF BRITISH ON SHOW EDINBURGH The Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh will play host to the third edition of the international craft and design fair, Handmade Edinburgh. Running from 10th – 12th August 2018, the event is designed to complement the Edinburgh Festival Fringe. This summer’s show will celebrate the best high-end design and craftmanship, with an opportunity to shop for textiles, jewellery, ceramics, wood and more. Over 80 British and international designer-makers will be in attendance, showcasing their work in a purpose-built marquee in front of Inverleith House. For more details, go to handmadeinbritain.co.uk/edinburgh

TICKETS ON SALE FOR KNITTING & STITCHING SHOW Tickets have gone on sale for the Knitting & Stitching Show, which runs from 11th to 14th October at Alexandra Palace, London. Each year, attendees can learn a range of new skills, while the show’s educational programme offers more than 250 workshops and talks, led by industry experts. The Creative Living Theatre will feature a packed programme of demonstrations by sewing celebrities including Lauren Guthrie from The Great British Sewing Bee, textile artist Jan Beaney and Jean Littlejohn and The Beadworkers’ Guild. A dedicated dressmaking studio will offer classes for all levels, from beginner to professional, and there are drop-in knitting and crochet lessons from volunteers at UK Hand Knitting at The Knitworking Station. In addition, more than 300 exhibitors from across the globe will be selling a range of essential craft supplies. There will also be Textile Galleries by leading artists, graduates and groups, including Caren Garfen, who has created a bedroom installation furnished with hospital and domestic furniture, and Jenni Dutton, whose Dementia Darnings wool portraits trace the story of her mother’s life. John Allen’s Spirit of Place is inspired by the ever-changing British landscape, while Nigel Graham Cheney has produced a series of textile sculptures commemorating World War One and the Naseby Village memorial. For details, go to theknittingandstitchingshow.com

28 craftfocus

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Our range of products:

Easels: Studio Easels, Table Top Easels, Field Sketching Easels, palettes and many many more

Canvases: Cotton Canvases, Linen Canvases, Transparcent Linen Canvases, Canvas Boards

Stretchers Bars All our products are made in EU and are made from special selected and prepared Pine or Beech Wood

Sketching and Drawing Pads and Colour Paper in Sheets We make Sketching and Drawing Pads in many sizes. They can be gummed or on spiral

www.quantumart.eu RIƜFH#TXDQWXPDUWHX__:HVW5RDG%XLOGLQJ+DUORZ&0%4 show preview

golden opportunities More than 26,000 visitors are expected to attend Autumn Fair this September, ready to stock up for the busiest trading period of the year Autumn Fair 2nd – 5th September, 2018 NEC Birmingham autumnfair.com @springautfair

Taking place over four days in September, this 1,300 exhibitors and more than 24,000 visitors year’s Autumn Fair will be championing its across 13 show sectors. Retailers will also role as the gateway to the Golden Quarter for have the chance to view standout products 2018. Buyers will be able to stock up for the for key retail spikes in the first half of 2019, peak end-of-year sales period, discovering including Easter and Mother’s Day. products with the power to help deliver profit The much talked-about Golden Quarter across these crucial months. The event is as runs through October, November and large as ever, and is expected to welcome December, as sales surge in the build up to the festive season. Research carried out by the Bank of England estimates that household spending rises by a substantial 25 per cent in the month of December. As such, this year’s show will provide visitors with the opportunity to buy products for this important selling out upcoming trends, and get ahead of the period, as well as helping them to get ahead competition by seeing 2019 product launches with new lines for next year. before anyone else,” says Louise Young, There will also be expert advice to help Managing Director at Spring & Autumn Fair. attendees capitalise on this important time, “The event is full of innovative ideas and as well as understanding how to respond to products that will really sell and deliver profit. changing customer expectations. In addition, Buyers often tell us that it’s an important there will be a full educational programme, opportunity that sets them up to succeed.” covering topics such as experiential shopping, ecommerce and social media. MADE BY HAND “As well as being able to order product The fair will also play host to Global at Autumn Fair for the busiest retail period Handicraft, a new showcase of artisanal of the year, buyers will be able to check products from across the globe. The segment

craftfocus 31 golden opportunities

will enable manufacturers to display THE YOUNG ONES clothing and accessories is a key area of sell- bespoke goods across a range of disciplines Show organiser, Ascential, will also be through for retailers. Our view is that those including jewellery, fine ceramics, exotic extending Autumn Fair’s children’s gifts, toys that attend Autumn Fair will be in a much textiles and unusual lighting, reflecting a and gadgets showcase to include fashion, more favourable position to harness this growing interest in handmade goods within following the recent closure of Bubble amazing opportunity.” the home and gift market. There will also be London, the childrenswear trade show. live craft demonstrations and a programme “Childrenswear suppliers and retailers have Theo Paphitis brings of seminars showing retailers how to faced challenging trading conditions of #SBS to Autumn Fair take advantage of this burgeoning trend. late, but the market is still forecast to grow Business guru Theo “Consumers have made it clear they want significantly in coming years,” continues Paphitis will be hosting to connect with the products they buy and Louise. “Those companies that react to the #SBS Pavilion, a understand how they were created,” adds changing consumer expectations and deliver showcase dedicated to Louise. “Handicraft is a growing revenue products that are on-trend will succeed in highlighting new products stream across the industry, from independent growing their market share. Whether it be for from ambitious start-ups gift shops to multi-store high street retailers.” children or for teenagers, gifting children’s and small businesses. The initiative will see companies that are part of Theo’s #SBS community compete to win one of 12 free exhibition spots at the fair. The #SBS initiative was created in 2010. Each week small businesses are invited to tweet Theo and secure his endorsement. Every Monday, six companies are chosen to become part of the 2,300-strong community, gaining extra publicity and the chance to attend a yearly conference. “I am thrilled to be bringing #SBS to Autumn Fair,” explains Theo. “It was born out of the sheer number of business owners on Twitter who wanted to tell me about their new products and services. It exists so that these passionate entrepreneurs have a dedicated space to share their ideas and ‘pitch’ for endorsement. It’s therefore a natural match to bring our initiative to Autumn Fair, an event that is similarly dedicated to championing retailers, their energy and entrepreneurial spirit.”

32 craftfocus Business for sale

This is an excellent opportunity to A highly multipurpose tool with a large purchase a company which has created a target market, it can be used by anyone truly one-of-its-kind product which makes who folds paper and card by hand and folding paper and card an easier and more across a variety of industry sectors which versatile process. LQFOXGHSDSHUFUDIWLQJRULJDPLRI¿FH architects, printing and postal services All sales enquiries to: Fold-Ease is a patented paper and card and home use. Laura Ineson, Client Manager folding tool which prevents friction burns Intelligent Business Transfer Limited and paper cuts, speeds up folding and 7KHEXVLQHVVGRHVQRWRSHUDWHRXWRI¿[HG +HDG2I¿FH creates a neat crisp creaseline when hand premises and the product is manufactured Rose Wharf 78-80 East Street, Leeds, LS9 8EE folding paper and card. and shipped to the UK for sale, hence a new owner could be based in any national T: 0800 612 7718 :LWKD¿UPIRXQGDWLRQVHWDQGD¿QDOLVHG or international location. product which is fully intellectually protected, E: [email protected] WKLVLVQRZDSUR¿WDEOHSODWIRUPZKLFK W: www.intelligent.co.uk presents great scope for further development. sweet success FMM Sugarcraft is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. Siobhan Lees, Head of Sales and Marketing, tells us how the company is marking this milestone Tell us a little about the history of distributor Creative Expressions we supply MD, needed help to grow the business. I’ve FMM Sugarcraft. tools, equipment and air-drying clay for the worked for a variety of firms over the years, Back in 1948, the present owner’s parents, craft market. moving from IT to retail. At one time I had my Joe and Mary Clements, started a business own successful marketing business too. making filter coffee bags, before expanding FMM has been in business for 70 years – Moving into a new industry was a to produce piping tubes, bags and aprons how will you be celebrating this challenge, but one that I really embraced. for the catering trade. Sugarcraft became amazing achievement? Nothing gives me more of a buzz than increasingly popular in the 1990s, and our We’ve got lots going on, starting with generating revenue for the business and expertise in injection moulding meant it was the creation of a 70th anniversary logo. In working with happy, satisfied customers. My a natural progression for us to develop tools addition, we are developing a new brochure approach is a combination of strategic and and equipment for this emerging sector. and website, retro imagery and lots of social pragmatic marketing and creativity, which We entered the market with a carnation media content. We also hosted a birthday I feel which is essential if FMM is to stay set. It proved so successful that we knew we networking celebration at the One Big Show ahead of the competition. I love finding new were on the right track and began to add new in association with AFCI in June. Of course, we customers and more importantly, keeping lines to meet demand. We still make products are making our own birthday cake too! them. I’m always thinking of ways to develop for the catering industry, but nowadays new products and reach different markets. We most of the business is focused on creating, How long have you worked at operate in a highly competitive industry, and designing and manufacturing sugarcraft the company? staying one step ahead is key to our success. tools. More recently, we have developed I have been with FMM for five years. I joined to the FMM FunCraft brand, and through our head up sales and marketing when Grace, our What are the key products our readers should know about? A few years ago we were probably best known for our innovative Tappit range, which can be used to make letters, numbers and shapes to decorate cakes and plaques. The user simply taps the flexible strip on a board or table to remove each individual motif. More recently, we have introduced novelty cutters in quirky shapes including fluffy clouds, a picket fence, animal shapes, mix and match faces and fairy-tale designs. Another new addition is our selection of

34 craftfocus company profile

curved words, which allow inscriptions such many crafters were already repurposing our approach is to build recognition of FMM as as Happy Birthday, Just Married and You & sugarcraft tools and equipment for their a brand through generating regular content Me to be crafted from a single piece of paste. projects. They love using our cutters and across all media, in order to keep audiences The product is simple enough for beginners textures to make embellishments for their engaged. to use, and will also save time for professional cards and home décor creations. In response, Like any business, we need to constantly cake makers. we decided to target this market with work on moving forward. This includes Our Easiest Ever range fits into this category products ideally suited to a craft audience. keeping an eye on trends, developing too. The concept offers a revolutionary way We have also introduced Bright and Light innovative products, finding new markets and to assemble flowers, making it possible to air-drying clay, a super-lightweight modelling most importantly, looking after our existing create beautiful blooms in minutes rather material that can be used in a multitude customers. than hours. of ways. Do you offer marketing support What’s new in sugarcraft this year? Where can retailers get to see the to retailers? Trends such as mermaids, unicorns and fairy company’s products? Yes, full marketing support is provided to tales have been popular for some time, and We have two websites, fmmsugarcraft.com help retailers sell our products. This includes this looks set to continue. In response, we and fmmfuncraft.com. As a manufacturer, we posters, projects, tip sheets and video have developed cutters that make it easy for operate via a distribution network. Retailers tutorials. We even have a free resources people to create their own cakes and bakes. interested in stocking our products can get in website, educate.fmmsugarcraft.co.uk, where Easy-to-use products are also in demand, touch with us directly and we will be happy retailers can download marketing content. with families increasingly using cake-making to help. as a fun activity to do together. Tropical leaves What’s coming up next? and bright florals look set to be big in the How are you finding the current We’ve got lots of new products in the wedding category this year, with watercolour economic climate? pipeline that we will launch over the coming marbling and gold leaf details making a real There are challenges in any marketplace months, which is all part of our plan to keep design statement. and our industry is no different. We have innovation at the heart of what we do. We’re to work hard to maintain our share of the even bringing out a limited edition More Tell us more about the FMM market, constantly promoting our brands and Than a Dahlia cutter to help celebrate our FunCraft brand. products and looking for ways to leverage milestone year! We launched the brand in 2017, because social media and new technologies. Our Developing our overseas business is another part of the strategy going forward. We currently export to more than 50 countries worldwide, so there is still lots of opportunity to be explored. Increasing awareness of the FunCraft brand is also on the list. It has been very well received by the craft community but we need to build on this by generating lots of educational content so that people become familiar with the entire range.

FMM SugarCraft & FMM FunCraft +44 (0)1442 292 970 fmmsugarcraft.com fmmfuncraft.com

craftfocus 35

knitting & crochet woolly thinking What’s new in knitting and crochet this autumn

DRIFT AWAY King Cole has added a new product line to its hugely popular Drifter collection. Aran is a blend of cotton, wool and acrylic and can be used to create a striped Fair Isle-effect with a particularly soft feel. It’s pictured here with pattern number 5267.

+44 (0)1756 703 670 kingcole.com

craftfocus 37 woollywowoooolollllylyy thinkingthink

SOFT TOUCH Creative World of Crafts has introduced a new companion to its Bernat Blanket range. Bernat Velvet is a super-soft chenille yarn that is perfect for creating plush pillows and other home décor projects. It retails at £12.99 per ball.

+ 44 (0)116 271 3131 creativeworldofcrafts.co.uk

SPINNING A YARN Crafter’s Companion stocks a selection of yarn including Ribbon XL FASHION FORWARD by Hoooked, which comes in fresh, contemporary shades. Its bulky Featuring everything from ballerina slippers to moon boots and yet lightweight fabric design is easy to work, giving quick and stylish basketball shoes, Classic Kicks for Little Feet by Helga Spitz offers an results. It’s recycled, itch-free and slightly elastic, making it ideal for adorable collection of 16 booties that mimic adult styles. Patterns extra-large amigurumi, home knits, accessories and fashion garments. are perfectly sized for babies of up to nine months, and because The company also supplies Hoooked’s Zpagetti t-shirt yarn, which can each project uses a small amount of yarn, the designs are great for be used to create fast and sturdy knits such as pillows, lampshades or using up odds and ends. It’s published by Sixth & Spring, and retails even a large crochet rug. Made from textile salvage and remnants, the at £12.99. wool also offers a bright colour palette. +44 (0)1273 402 873 +44 (0)1388 660 930 thegmcgroup.com crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

38 craftfocus HAVE YOU CONSIDERED STOCKING CYGNET YARNS?

UK Distrubutor for: Sock Yarn Specialist • Opal • Eucalan • GREAT QUALITY YARNS • EXCELLENT VALUE • HUGE RANGE AVAILABLE • QUICK DELIVERY

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Knitting Needles & * Minimum TRADE ENQUIRIES: Accessories order 12 packs

E: [email protected] T: 0117 300 5244 Cygnet Yarns Ltd www.viridianyarn.com 12-14 Adelaide Street, Bradford BD5 0EA

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&ŽƌϭŵĞƚƌĞŽĨƐƉĂĐĞ͕LJŽƵĐŽƵůĚŚĂǀĞƚŚĞzĂƌŶ ĂƐƐŚŽǁŶŝŶƚŚĞƉŝĐƚƵƌĞ͕ƉůƵƐϮϭWĂƩĞƌŶ >ĞĂŇĞƚƐĂŶĚĂƐĞůĞĐƟŽŶŽĨEĞĞĚůĞƐ͘ dŽƚĂůĐŽƐƚсάϱϭϮ͘ϵϱͮdŽƚĂůZZWсάϭϮϮϬ͘ϵϬ dŽƚĂůWƌŽĮƚсάϳϬϳ͘ϵϱ ^ƚĂŶĚ͕WĂƩĞƌŶŽŽŬΘEĞĞĚůĞZĂĐŬĂůůƐƵƉƉůŝĞĚ &ƌĞĞŽĨĐŚĂƌŐĞǁŝƚŚŽƌĚĞƌ͘ sŝƐŝƚƵƐĂƚƵƚƵŵŶ&ĂŝƌϮϬϭϴ͕E͕^ĞƉƚϮŶĚͲϱƚŚ ^ƚĂŶĚϰϲϬͲϲϭ ŽŶƚĂĐƚƵƐ d͗ϬϭϳϱϲϳϬϯϲϳϬ͗ĞŶƋƵŝƌŝĞƐΛŬŝŶŐĐŽůĞ͘ĐŽŵt͗ŬŝŶŐĐŽůĞ͘ĐŽŵ :ŽŝŶƵƐŽŶ^ŽĐŝĂůDĞĚŝĂ New Rose Gold bridal and party range now available!

Its begining to look a lot likeChristmas

Christmas collection will be available in September 2018

T: +44(0)1483 281313 E: [email protected] www.clubgreen.com ClubGreenLtd knitting & crochet

BLANKET COVER Featuring 35 colourful, cosy and comfortable patterns, Modern Crocheted Blankets, Throws and Cushions looks set to fly off the shelves this autumn. It’s written by talented young designer FIRST HAND Laura Strutt, author of Modern Crocheted RKM Wools is now stocking Puffy, a Shawls and Wraps, and is packed with gorgeous ‘no needles or hook’ yarn by Turkish photography and inspirational ideas. Divided manufacturer, Alize. This innovative by colour theme, this modern book offers product is particularly well-suited to hand something for every style of home. It is priced at knitting, and its soft texture can be used £12.99 and available from Cico Books from 9th to make simple toys, baby blankets and October 2018. hats. It’s ideal for younger knitters, and is also used in nurseries and schools. A full +44 (0)20 7025 2200 range of colours is available. rylandpeters.com

+44 (0)1743 442 907 creativeyarns.co.uk

SUPER SIZING Family business World of Wool has been supplying yarn to the trade for more than 40 years. The company has just launched its new Chubbs range, featuring super-chunky yarns in contemporary, bright colours. The product is made from merino wool, and is perfect for spinning, knitting projects and washing machine felting. Each ball measures approximately 130m in length.

+44 (0)1484 846 878 worldofwool.co.uk

FEETE FIRST Opal’s latest self-pattern 4ply sock yarn, Handwork and Hobby 3, is now in stock at Viridian. It’s available in eight shades, and can be used for socks, baby clothes and a variety of other garments. Each ball is made from 75 per cent virgin wool and 25 per cent polyamide, and the wool is hardwearing yet gentle to skin. It’s also machine washable.

+44 (0)117 300 5244 viridianyarn.com

craftfocus 41 woollywowoooolollllylyy thinkingthink

GARDEN PARTY Crocheted Cactuses is delightful little volume containing 16 on-trend projects. Using simple stitches and widely available yarn, there’s a diverse selection to choose from, all inspired by real species. Some are embellished with beads, while others have ridges, flowers and bobbles. There’s a short techniques section at the beginning of the book, and all the reader needs to get started is a hook and some yarn. It’s priced at £6.99.

+44 (0)1892 510 850 ssearchpress.com

FULL COLOUR EARN YOUR STRIPES Caron has teamed up with Pantone to Haafner Linssen’s new title, Stripy produce a luxurious new yarn, combining Blankets to Crochet offers a riot rich merino wool with the versatility of easy- of colour to brighten up any care acrylic and nylon. Caron x Pantone is home. The patterns featured are packaged to include five 20g skeins, taking relaxing to create, can be worked the headache out of selecting complementary up quickly and don’t have lots of colours. The product has a retail price of £8.99. ends to sew in. Projects vary from The brand has also added tone-on- simple designs that only use basic tone sparkle to create its Simply Soft Party stitches to more complex patterns collection, retailing at £5.49 per ball. that require a little more skill. Each blanket features a chart, full +44 (0)116 271 3131 instructions and colour advice, creativeworldofcrafts.co.uk while basic crochet techniques are also explained in detail. The book retails at £10.99.

+44 (0)1892 510 850 searchpress.com

A KIND OF MAGIC Wool specialist, Cygnet Yarns has a range of exciting products available this autumn, including Whopper Cotton, which can be used for knitting, crochet, weaving and macramé. The wool is available in eight vibrant shades. Also arriving in late summer, Fairydust DK is a new baby yarn that features a subtle shimmer, adding a touch of magic to knits for little ones.

+44 (0)1274 743 374 cygnetyarns.com

42 craftfocus FOCUSCRAFT 3 MERRINGTON BUSINESS PARK, BOMERE HEATH, SHREWSBURY SY4 3QJ

01939 291848 [email protected] www.focuscraft.co.uk

Christmas products deck the shelves Get set for the busy festive season with our selection of sure-fire Christmas bestsellers

Colour it in Edding’s popular Colour Happy Box is a great Christmas gift idea, and features a combination of the company’s best-selling products in stylish, contemporary packaging. The set includes 20 brush pens in light and luminous hues, with 10 brand new shades. There’s also an innovative brush pen that adds up to 190 different colour combinations. Edding also supplies the Colour Happy Big Box, which features 20 brush pens, a colour mixer, 30 fibre pens, 12 fine liners, five gel rollers, a profipen and the new pastel pen-soft white, which can be used to create pale shades and bright white highlights. With its clean, modern appearance, the attractive cardboard box also acts as a handy desk organiser.

+44 (0)1727 846 688 edding.com

Sparkle & shine Craft Buddy has 12 new crystal card kits available now, all with eye- catching Christmas-themed designs. Each set has a retail price of £4.99, and includes all the tools needed. Projects take around one hour to complete, and are proving popular with beginners and more experienced crafters alike.

+44 (0)203 417 6565 craftbuddyltd.co.uk

All in the detail Produced by Luca-S, this highly detailed seasonal scene is available as a counted cross stitch kit. The set includes Zweigart 18-count Aida with easy-stitch gridlines, as well as a petit point version on 25-count pointstitch canvas. Both styles come with Anchor stranded cottons sorted onto bobbin cards, a clear over-sized chart and instructions. The larger set measures 21cm x 30cm and retails at £28.99, while the petit point version is 15cm x 21cm and costs £17.99.

+44 (0)161 464 7313 solocrafts.com

craftfocus 45 deck the shelves

All that glitters Available from S.E. Simons, this new glitter ribbon by Bertie’s Bows is ideal for boosting Christmas sales. It comes in three widths, and is produced in sparkling shades of gold, red, silver and pewter. Sweet nothings +44 (0)117 955 4710 Sweet Dixie has a huge selection of shop.sesimons.co.uk seasonal dies that allow crafters to create their own cards and messages in Stamp it out traditional, contemporary and custom- New from Crafter’s Companion, these co-ordinating sets feature both a stamp image and made styles. Trade prices start from £1.29 co-ordinating die in one, so the user can achieve perfect results in no time at all. Whether per die, and the range is supplied by shaping the edge of a card blank or simply cutting out a stamped design, the products Personal Impressions. provide great results and make a versatile addition to any craft stash. They’re available in 10 festive designs, including poinsettias, snowflakes, candles and bells, as well as +44 (0)1787 375 241 whimsical styles featuring Christmas puddings, Santa Claus, stockings and snowmen. personalimpressions.com

+44 (0)1388 660 930 crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

46 craftfocus Pixelhobby UK Christmas

It’s amazing what you can do with pixels! If you’ve not seen Pixelhobby before, the principle is simple- you pull pixels off, available in both standard and XL sizes, and place them on a baseplate to follow a pattern. That’s it! There’s no need to worry about ironing or spraying with water making it a fun, easy and mess-free craft that anyone can do. Our Christmas range gives Pixelhobby a festive twist with kits featuring Santa, snow globes and FDQG\FDQHVWKDWPDNHSHUIHFWVWRFNLQJðOOHUV and gifts for all price points.

We always encourage customers to start Our magnet collections are VɈZTHSSP[HSSILNPUZ^P[OHRL`YPUN Our one of our best-selling products Christmas keyring box includes everything you and they’re exclusive to Pixelhobby UK. All of QHHGWRPDNHðYHIHVWLYHNH\ULQJV7KH\DOVR your favourite Christmas activities including work really well as tree decorations! The next LFHVNDWLQJVQRZEDOOðJKWVDQGFDUROOLQJFRPH size up is our magnet kits. These make a great together to form our winter magnet collection. festive touch to any magnetic surface and are Six individual magnet kits seamlessly connect available in both the together to form a bigger picture, making this standard and XL pixels a great pixel project for all the family to get in a variety of different involved in. Christmas designs. All of the pixelsquares, Our one baseplate kits make beautiful framed baseplates and pictures. By following a pattern that matches keyrings can also colours to symbols, you can make a Christmas be purchased project like our snow globe. With Pixelhobby, it’s individually, so easy to create a masterpiece! both stockists and customers can Our full Christmas range as well as get creative and V\YV[OLYWP_LSRP[ZJHUILMV\UKVU design their own projects. our website^^^WP_LSOVII`VYN\R

We are always looking for new retailers to stock our products, if you are interested in stocking our Christmas range, or any of our products please contact us at [email protected]

^^^WP_LSOVII`VYN\R ZHSLZ'WP_LSOVII`VYN\R | 01278 429804 |

Christmas products

Paper magic Hunkydory has plenty of inspiration for papercrafters this Christmas, including the Snow is Falling topper collection. Combining traditional scenes with a soft colour palette, the set incorporates pale blue, soft lilac and touches of red and green. Also available is Classic Christmas, which makes use of traditional iconography to create a timeless look. Taking inspiration from Victorian cards and biblical imagery, it offers a festive trip down memory lane. Other new lines include The Magic of Christmas, a light and whimsical range characterised by a pastel colour palette and hand-drawn sketches, and Christmas Elegance, which features a polar bear and focuses on beautiful textures. On the ball +44 (0)1772 272 577 Sold in boxes of 12 or 25, these ‘print your own pottery’ shapes hunkydorycrahunkydorycrafts.co.ukfts.co.uk can be painted, decoupaged or embellished to suit a particular colour theme or style of home décor. They’re available from Country Love Crafts.

+44 (0)1235 861 700 countrylovecrafts.com

Metal magic PlastiKote offers a range of metallic and glitter paints that can be used to spray leaves and cones to produce a magical Christmas display. The company’s multi-purpose Twist & Spray and Chalk paints are also proving popular with crafters who wish to create a high-end look at an affordable price point.

+31 (561) 694 400 plasti-kote.co.uk

craftfocus 49 deck the shelves

Festive felt Hawthorn Handmade has three festive designs out this year, including this penguin mini needle felting kit. Ideal for inexperienced felters, the set includes step-by-step instructions, British wool and materials. It takes between two and four hours for a beginner to complete and retails at £10. A reindeer version is also available. The company’s penguin embroidery kit is set to be another seasonal winner, and comes with colourful DMC Fairy dust threads, a hoop and an easy-to-follow guide. It has a retail Following on from the success of its 8cm bauble, Lavinia Stamps has introduced price of £17.50. two larger sizes in 10cm and 15cm. The decorations are fun to make and can be finished in any number of ways. There’s also a range of supporting products, +44 (0)1258 880 691 including empty baubles, inkjet printable acetate and a selection of inserts. The hawthornhandmade.com outside can also be adorned with stars, snowflakes and crystals and hung from a co-ordinating ribbon.

+44 (0)1824 710 691 laviniastamps.com

Simply dotty Featuring pre-sorted faceted tiles placed onto a sticky canvas, Father Snow is the latest festive kit from Diamond Dotz. The tiny tiles are easy to pick up, and the finished effect sparkles like real snow. It measures 50cm x 62cm and retails at £63.99. There’s a handy stylus tool, wax and a craft tray included, making this a useful project to stock in the run-up to the festive season.

+44 (0)161 464 7313 solocrafts.com

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• Ideal for scrapbooking and greeting cards • For light and dark paper • Line width: 1-2mm

ILLIANT BR CO 6 LO IN U E R L S B A L I A

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For further information, please contact us on 0845 600 5930 or [email protected] Christmas products

Festive fun These festive 3D embossing folders have different levels of depth built into the design, providing crafters with the ability to create their own backgrounds. The folders work with a range of different techniques and mediums such as ink and gilding wax, which makes it possible to achieve a variety of visually stunning effects.

+44 (0)1388 660 930 crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

Glass act These stained glass-inspired decorations make great Christmas tree ornaments. Produced by Design Works, the counted cross stitch Merry & bright collection includes six ornaments stitched on a 14-count plastic Heritage Crafts has added three new kits to its Christmas card canvas sheet, which is then cut out and ready to hang. Each ornament collection for 2018, each measuring 5.5cm x 9.5cm. Images are measures 2in x 4in, and the pack retails at £21.99. Also available is this designed by Susan Ryder and based on stained glass windows. smartly-dressed snowman stocking, stitched on 14-count Aida. The Each cross stitch set contains Zweigart fabric, DMC stranded set comes with Christmas-patterned fabric, stranded cottons, a paper cottons, a needle, charts, instructions, cards and envelopes, with chart and full instructions. The design can be personalised and retails an individual retail price of £7.50. at £29.99. Both products are available from Solocrafts. +44 (0)1889 575 256 +44 (0)161 464 7313 hcrafts.com solocrafts.com

craftfocus 53 bookstand The latest craft titles to hit the shelves

SEWING

SEW LUXE LEATHER By Rosanna Clare Gethin Price: £14.99 ISBN: 978-1-44630-676-5 F&W Media International

With a strong fashion-forward focus, Sew Luxe Leather is aimed at beginners who would like to make high-end goods and accessories at home. It covers all thehe main techniques fforor leather craft including machine sewing, hand stitching, scoring, marking, hole punching and adding fastenings. Readers will learn all the skills needed to make a range of projects, many of which use surprisingly little equipment. We say: Leather work is becoming increasingly popular, and this handy volume is ideal for those who want to learn the basics of this highly satisfying craft.

KNITTINGK

DOGSD ON JUMPERS By Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne showcasing 18 different images. PPrice: £14.99 Each design has a graph to make ISISBN: 978-191121-695-7 an adult jumper, alongside eight PaPavilion additional illustrations tailored to children and babies. Breeds CaCanine enthusiasts Sally Muir and featured include a Labrador, JoJoanna Osborne are back with a Lurcher, Dalmation, French Bulldog nenew collection of knitting patterns and Border Collie. fofor jumpers, accessories and baby We say: An ideal gift for dog lovers, ititems,e all featuring dog motifs. this charming volume is packed ThThe book includes garments for with irresistible photography and a mmen, women, children and babies, wealth of useful advice.

54 craftfocus book reviews

BEADINGB

350335 BEADING TIPS, TTETECHNIQUES & TTRTRADE SECRETS ByBy Jean Power £1£12.99 ISISBN: 978-178221-657-5 SSearche Press

TThish weighty tome is STITCHING aann updated version of JJeane Power’s bestselling SEWING LAMPSHADES ttitle,it Compendium of By Joanna Heptinstall BBeadinge Techniques. Price: £14.99 FFollowingo the success ISBN: 978-178221-449-6 ooff her last book, Jean’s Search Press lalatestt guide features 50 brand new techniques too kkeepeep reareadersders uupp to speedspeed withwith allall thethe With 18 step-by-step instructions by tapestry designer Joanna latest methods and styles in jewellery making. It includes step-by-step Heptinstall, this colourful guide shows readers how to sew tailored, photographs, diagrams and clear instructions to guide crafters through pleated and loose lampshades. Each technique is covered in detail, every stage of their project. Techniques are organised in the order they including fabric, framing, shades, trims and stands. Few specialist are needed, from essential materials to finishing tips. Learn about tools are required, and designs can easily be customised to suit home creative knotwork, quick and easy stringing, showing off display beads décor. The book is bursting with inspirational images, along with the and mixing vintage and modern styles. There’s also troubleshooting tips and tricks of the trade. tips and advice to help enthusiasts along the way. We say: This lavishly illustrated guide is a great starting point for We say: Whether the reader is making jewellery as a gift or to sell, this crafters keen try their hand at a stylish home décor project. book has everything needed to get started.

PAINTING

ROCK ART HANDBOOK transforming any rock into a work of By Samantha Sarles art. Crafters can discover how to get £14.99 great results with puffy paint, acrylic, ISBN: 978-156523-945-6 oil, pastels, nail varnish, art pens, Fox Chapel Publishing embossing and stamping. The book features 30 step-by-step projects, Painting and hiding rocks has making it a comprehensive guide to become hugely popular in the last 12 this fast-growing trend. months, as adults and kids decorate We say: Rock painting has really stones and conceal them for others taken off across the UK, and this to find, admire and hide again. In this timely volume will ensure you can colourful guide, Sam Sarles shares offer your customers a fun way to her favourite tips and techniques for take part in a popular pastime.

craftcraftfocusfo 55 Leading Craft and Papercraft Supplier Global Delivery Service * 30,000+ products * 70+ brands * Card Making * Journaling * Scrapbooking *Papercrafting * Planners * General Crafts * Decoupage * Merchandising Display Stands Kits

Personal Impressions (Part of the EM Richford Group), Curzon Road, Chilton Industrial Estate, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2XW. Tele: +44 1787 375241 [email protected] www.personalimpressions.com craft kits craft

Craft kits are as popular as ever. Here’s a few highlights that will be hitting the get set go! shelves this autumn

In a knot Macramé is one of this year’s biggest craft trends, which makes these new Design Works kits a timely addition to Solocrafts’ extensive catalogue. Each of the traditional knotting craft sets contains cotton cord together with a wooden dowel, finials and trims. There are five variations available, with more launches expected soon. Measuring 8in x 24in, the kits pictured here are Natural Twist and Have a Heart. Both retail at £18.99.

+44 (0)161 464 7313 solocrafts.com

Feeling blue This eye-catching printed needlepoint tapestry is produced by The Fei Collection, and is currently stocked by Liberty of London. Designer Fei Trapnell was inspired by a magnificent Indian blue peacock at Prinknash Bird and Deer Park in Gloucestershire. The set includes printed interlock canvas, English Appletons wool, a shade card, tapestry needle, chart and instructions. It’s packaged in a dark green gift bag and once complete, can be used as a cushion front or wall hanging.

+44 (0)1594 516 771 feicollection.co.uk

All square Pixelhobby UK has lots of new products available for autumn and Christmas, including this on-trend cactus magnet set. Retailing at just £4.99, it’s a great impulse purchase. Kits come with a baseplate and colourful tiles, and work well for crafters of all ages. A selection of festive designs, including a gingerbread house, snowman and reindeer, are also ready to order now.

+44 (0)1278 429 804 pixelhobby.org.uk

craftfocus 57 get set go!

Monkey business Designed by Mandy Cameron, this Knitty Critter kit contains all the materials needed to crochet Charlie Chimp. Suitable for beginners, the set makes a great gift or home décor item, and includes easy-to-follow instructions and certified stuffing for a soft, cuddly finish. It retails at £20 and is supplied by Creative World of Crafts.

+44 (0)1162 713 131 cwoc.co.uk

Feline fine Heritage Crafts has added two new designs to the Peter Underhill Collection. Measuring 8.5cm by 22cm, Cats’ Paw Prints is a whimsical piece that costs £17.05. Equally charming, The Hum of Bees measures 9cm x 22cm and retails at the same price. Both kits contain Zweigart fabric, DMC stranded cottons sorted onto number cards, a needle, clear charts and instructions.

+44 (0)1889 575 256 hcrafts.com

Fine art embroidery French embroidery thread specialist, DMC, has announced a collaboration with Argentinian textile designer Hiedra. Known as The DMC Design Collective, it’s a brand-new project that will see a selection of artists create limited edition DIY embroidery kits. Hiedra is the artistic name used by Sofia Salazar, whose work revolves around the female figure, using elements of classical sculpture and Greek mythology. “We want to encourage craft, self-creation and the meditation of handmade,” says Jade Harwood, Creative Director. “This collaboration marks a cornerstone of how embroidery is no longer seen as a grandmother’s pastime, but a way to make your own mark on fashion and your own wardrobe.” Kits will be sold through the Paper Mache Tiger store.

dmc.com

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® INTRODUCING THE Eckley Tales Bothy Threads CROSS STITCH KITS, NOW AVAILABLE

Eckley, Marla and Normy, decided to bring some festive cheer with a beautiful rendition of their favourite carol.

Amanda J Butler Designs The Home of Happy Stitching! visit www.etsy.com/uk/shop/AmandaJButlerDesigns Bothy Threads Ltd., Unit 2b, Lakeland Business Park, Cockermouth, CA13 0QT Email: [email protected] Call: 07486 449305 01900 828844 [email protected] www.bothythreads.com

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] londonbeadco.com craft kits craft

Stitched up Animal magic Based in Herefordshire, Fat Cat Cross ExaClair has released four new Décopatch kits, adding to its collection of 18. Each set Stitch is a small family business contains papers, glues, brushes and maché supports. Inspired by vintage home décor, the specialising in bold, bright and fun Shabby design comes with a photo frame, trinket box and vase, while the unicorn kits. Using Zweigart fabric and Anchor set is available with a fun mix of pretty, modern papers and a ready-to-decorate model threads, each kit comes with everything and frame. needed to complete the project, Also aimed at crafting enthusiasts, the Fruity kit contains a geometric flowerpot and an including a full colour chart, needle and origami bird with bright, funky paper in yellow, green and blue, while the latest addition to easy-to-follow instructions. RRPs range the mini range features a bunny and cute, spring-themed papers. from £6.95 (£2.90 trade) for greeting card “The products have proven to be very popular,” says Clement Rouillard, Marketing kits to £7.95 (£3.31 trade) for Easy Peasy Manager at ExaClair. “With everything included in one box, it’s an easy way for those new to and Sew Simple designs. Décopatch to get started and see how much fun the craft is!” +44 (0)1432 760 733 +44 (0)1553 696 600 fatcatcross-stitch.co.uk exaclairlimited.com

Counting sheep Featuring a contemporary embroidery design pre-printed onto cotton as well as all the materials needed, this sheep kit is perfect for winding down after a busy day. It comes with DMC threads, a 7-inch embroidery hoop and easy step-by-step instructions. With illustrations included, even needlework novices will be able to create their own beautiful piece of work. It retails at £17.50.

+44 (0)1258 880 691 hawthornhandmade.com

Bear with us Retailing at £20, Hawthorn Handmade’s giant panda needle felting kit is a great introduction to the craft for beginners. It includes British wool, needles and easy-to-follow instructions that enable the user to create a black-and-white bear complete with a length of bamboo.

+44 (0)1258 880 691 hawthornhandmade.com

craftfocus 61 get set go!

Beside the sea New from Karen Carter for Heritage Crafts, On the Beach is a light- hearted cross stitch project featuring seagulls, buckets, spades and other traditional seaside imagery. It’s priced at £26.25 and comes with all the materials needed to complete this sunny design.

+44 (0)1889 575 256 hcrafts.com

Block by block Generations of quilters have loved the tumbling blocks pattern for its colour-play and stacked cube illusion. This version, by Rachel’s of Greenfield, features detailed instructions explaining how to recreate the classic design using only straight seams. The finished size is 22in by 21in and the kit includes fabric for the top, back and binding, as well as batting, quilting designs and precise patterns. It’s available from Hantex.

+44 (0)1754 820 800 hantex.co.uk

Child’s play Founded by Sara Duchars and Sarah Marks, Buttonbag specialises in textile-based crafts like sewing, knitting, cross stitch and embroidery. Many of the company’s kits are specially designed for children, and will introduce the user to a range of new techniques, improving fine motor skills, hand-to-eye coordination and problem solving. The company will be launching a number of attractively packaged sets this autumn, including these kitten, doll, unicorn and puppy variations.

+44 (0)208 525 1640 buttonbag.co.uk

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Fat Cat Cross Stitch Bold, bright fun designs for all.

From the Easy Peasy range stitched on 6 count Binca with tapestry wool.

From the Sew Simple range stitched on 11 count Aida with embroidery threads.

From the Card Kit range stitched on 14 count Aida, supplied with card & envelope. www.fatcatcross-stitch.com

New trade accounts always welcome. Please visit our website or call us on 01432 760 733 for further details. a stitch in time Cross stitch guru Amanda Butler tells us where she finds inspiration for her charming woodland designs

How did you get into cross stitch design? on, as well as a vast number of self-initiated Both my Grandmas spent many patient designs, from the initial idea to the finished hours teaching my sisters and I to crochet, piece. My job also included the provision knit and embroider during the long school of editorial coverage and exclusives with holidays. I was the child who delighted in publishing houses, keeping the company getting anything crafty and arty for birthdays in the public eye and promoting the sale of and Christmas – it would keep me quiet for thread. hours. I decided to study Vocational Art and Design at my local college, and went on to What led you to strike out on your own? complete an HND in Design Crafts at Cumbria After the Bolton studio closed in 2015, I College of Art and Design. I started work decided I wanted to pursue my own creative with Coats (UK) Ltd in 1992 as an originator vision to build up a collection of cross stitch and was subsequently promoted to Senior designs that I could be proud of. I also wanted Originator a year later. In 2003 I progressed to create my own little character in the form onto cross stitch and tapestry design based of Eckley Tales. in the Bolton Design Studio. This gave me Describe your current product range a privileged opportunity not only to learn How would you describe your to us. traditional practices, but also to introduce design style? The Eckley Tales collection is themed around new technologies and computer processes It can vary from intricate detail to a more childhood memories including picnics, trips while working on both the Anchor and Maia contemporary style which I have used for to the beach and old-fashioned toys. Each brands, along with popular license characters. magazine commissions. I love to use colour character is loosely based on one of my family in a realistic way, giving my designs a bright members, which keeps their personalities Tell us a little about your background in outlook. There are no grey skies though – running through each design. I wanted to the craft industry. that’s where the realism ends. I always like to create something a little special that I would Part of my professional role with Coats was place myself in a landscape and think what find adorable to work on and develop for to liaise with license companies such as would appeal to me. If it’s a country cottage years to come. Carte Blanche (Tatty Teddy and Solo the Cat), scene, for instance, there may be picturesque Disney, Forever Friends, Aardman, Beatrix streams running through lovely gardens, or a Where does your inspiration come from? Potter, Country Companions and Lilliput pleasant snowscape with pheasants adding One source is the wonderful landscapes Lane, all of which I have worked extensively rich colour to the white surroundings. painted by my grandfather, Albert Holt, which were produced just after World War One. I was always in awe of them and had a strong desire to be able to paint like him. They were very realistic, which I think my design style reflects.

64 craftfocus designer profile

I am also inspired by nature, and ideas of like-minded people who enjoy sharing often pop into my head when I’m out walking knowledge through social media. I love in the local countryside. Eckley Tales was working in this sector, and I have personally developed in this manner and is based on a witnessed the industry go through some very sweet little wood mouse named Woody, who successful years, but also some turbulent lived at the bottom of our garden for a while. ones, with a number of closures over that He claimed a nest box that my husband had time. I do find that cross stitch does tend to built from a hollow log. bounce back, with many diverse uses such as detailing on jeans, towels with aida bands How does the design process work? or even as a form of installation art. There is The initial idea is the hardest part. I am always definitely scope for those with imagination to collecting images, usually photographs that take it to new and exciting levels. I have taken when something has caught my eye. I use these when building a mock-up, What’s coming up next for you? which is put together in Photoshop, layer My next venture will be to create a textile- upon layer. I then print the image and add based collection for baby and toddler details which I draw on to improve the overall bedrooms. I am also learning to build my own look. Once I’m happy with it I will import website, which I am taking one step at the image behind a grid using specialised a time. software such as Stitchcraft. This allows me to be more accurate with my depiction of the For cross stitch kits, the process continues subject matter. The grid is set to the design further as I have to design the packaging, and size and also represents the aida count so put together a readable and accurate chart I know how big the stitching will be. I then and instructions. There is also a marketing select thread colours for the final design. campaign to publicise each launch.

Where can retailers get to see your kits? The Eckley Tales collection can be purchased directly from Amanda J Butler Designs. The kits are put together by a professional team who have years of experience within the field. I am available for commissions, and some of my work can be viewed through my Etsy store. I can also be contacted for a more detailed portfolio.

What’s your take on the British craft Amanda J Butler Designs industry – is it a good sector to work in? [email protected] Over the years I have found the craft +44 (0)7486 449 305 community to be a very supportive network etsy.com/uk/shop/AmandaJButlerDesigns

craftfocus 65 finish decoupage craquelure A4 & A5 textile foils mini textile foil packs textile foils

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8 1. Threaders Funky Cactus fabric, RRP £5.99, Crafter’s Companion. +44 (0)1388 660 930 or crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk 2. Felt appliqué hoop kit, RRP £14.40, Corinne Lapierre. +44 (0)113 246 0430 or corinnelapierre.com 3. Stitcharama iron-on embroidery transfer, RRP £9.95, Hantex. +44 (0)1754 820 800 or hantex.co.uk 4. Counted cross stitch kit, RRP £2.39, Mouseloft. +44 (0)1477 533 566 or mouseloft.co.uk 5. Fat quarter fabric pack, RRP £8.99 average, Visage Textiles. +44 (0)161 832 2213 or visagetextiles.com 6. Rachels of Greenfield succulents kit, RRP £29.95, Hantex. +44 (0)1754 820 800 or hantex.co.uk 7. Design Works punch needle kit, RRP £7.99, Solocrafts. +44 (0)161 464 7313 or solocrafts.com 8. Stamp set, RRP £8.00, Hunkydory Crafts. +44 (0)1772 272 577 or hunkydorycrafts.co.uk

craftfocus 67 look sharp

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1. Monaluna Journey organic fabric, RRP £19.95, Hantex. +44 (0)1754 820 800 or hantex.co.uk 2. Wrapping paper, RRP £1.60 and £2.00, Sass & Belle. +44 (0)207 346 0117 or sassandbelle.co.uk 3. Digital cactus fabric, RRP £16.99, Abakhan. +44 (0)1745 562 133 or abakhan.co.uk 4. Felt pincushion kit, RRP £7.20, Corinne Lapierre. +44 (0)113 246 0430 or corinnelapierre.com 5. Set of three erasers, RRP £2.95, Rex London Trade. +44 (0)208 746 1700 or rexlondontrade.com 6. Florartistry Christmas 3D cactus flowers, Personal Impressions. +44 (0)1787 375 241 or personalimpressions.com 7. Design Works cross stitch kit, RRP £31.99, Solocrafts. +44 (0)161 464 7313 or solocrafts.com 8. Spellbinders 3D shading stamps, Personal Impressions. +44 (0)1787 375 241 or personalimpressions.com

68 craftfocus Graham Smith Fabrics

Visit our website @ www.grahamsmithfabrics.com and explore our entire range of quality fabrics.

Tel: 01274 507022 Email: [email protected] Bedes Close, Thornton, Bradford, West Yorkshire. BD13 3NR smashing pumpkins Halloween products that won’t scare your customers away

Carve up New from Cico 1Books, Decorating Pumpkins & Gourds features 20 fun and stylish projects to make indoor and outdoor ornaments. Author Deborah Schneebeli- Morrell takes the reader through simple techniques to make beautiful displays for both home and garden. It’s priced at £8.99. +44 (0)20 7025 2200 rylandpeters.com

Colouring in Scare tactics Country Love Crafts has added four new tealights to its Hunkydory Crafts 2‘paint your own pottery’ range. The collection features a 3has stamps skull, pumpkin, Frankenstein’s monster and a ghost, which can be for every occasion, decorated with acrylic or glow-in-the-dark paint and fitted with a including Halloween- battery tealight. themed versions, which +44 (0)1235 861 700 can be used to create countrylovecrafts.com cards and other spooky decorations. Each set Model behaviour has a retail price of £8. Country Love Crafts has a great assortment of papier mâché +44 (0)1772 272 577 4models for crafters to decorate and personalise, from masks and hunkydorycrafts.co.uk hats to pots and pumpkins. Visit the website to see the entire range. +44 (0)1235 861 700 countrylovecrafts.com

Creepy cards Sweet Dixie’s 5Halloween dies will make cards, wall décor and fun decorations. Trade prices start from £1.45 per unit, excluding VAT, and the range is available from Personal Impressions. +44 (0)1787 375 241 personalimpressions.com

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spinning around We caught up with Caroline Symonds and Philippa Warford from yarn supplier King Cole to find out what the company has planned for autumn and winter Tell us a little about the history of Brand new Big Value DK 50g is already King Cole. popular all over the world. Crafters who are Established in 1935, King Cole has always familiar with our well-loved Big Value DK been a family business driven by strong range will be excited for our new yarn in a traditional values and a dedication to our neater ball size of 50g. It’s available in 44 chosen industry. We continue to innovate in shades, including 10 muted pastels that are yarn production, design support and point of ideal for baby garments, with 34 bolder adult sale material. A move to the current premises shades completing the palette. We have 16 in 2014 helped to consolidate our position patterns to support this product, featuring as one of the best-stocked suppliers in our toys, garments for all ages and accessories. field, offering a stock and order/delivery The yarn offers something for everyone. service that is second to none. This reliable and responsive system is available to retailers Are there any key launches coming up? throughout the UK and overseas, both 2018 is a huge year for us. With seven new specialist and non-specialist. ranges in a variety of weights, this has been Our comprehensive selection of hand our biggest summer yet and we have no plans and machine knitting yarns is available in to slow down. In September, we’ll be bringing out three gorgeous new Chunky and Super Chunky yarns, along with additions to many of our current ranges. In August, we’re launching a new DK that embodies autumn, as well as two Extra

Pattern 5263 hundreds of shades and in qualities ranging from 100 per cent acrylic to 100 per cent wool. The decisions we have made over the years have kept our company both competitive and influential in the industry, with every decision taken with the benefit to our customer at the forefront of our minds.

What are the products our readers should know about? Finesse Cotton Silk DK has been huge for spring/summer 2018; this sumptuous yarn is available in 10 fashionable vintage shades. We have developed an exquisite book full of innovative beautiful knits, and we partnered this with three gorgeous crochet leaflets. The product has been so successful that the first Pattern 5255 shipment sold out within weeks. Pattern 5260

72 craftfocus company profile

Does the company exhibit at any trade shows, either in the UK or overseas? Yes, each year in the UK we exhibit at the NEC in Birmingham. February is busy with two shows – Spring Fair and CHSI Stitches. We are back there in September for Autumn Fair, and this year we will be on stand 4B520-C53. For Pattern 9108 the overseas market we attend h+h Cologne, and in the USA we can be seen at The design twists and a refreshing colour palette. NeedleArts Association shows twice a year. Pattern 5114 These are all fantastic opportunities for us to Where can retailers get to see Chunky yarns, including one we’re particularly meet with like-minded people and network your products? proud of because of its fibre content and with other companies in the industry, as well As a wholesaler, we don’t sell directly to colour selection. as showing off exciting new products. the public, but stockists can be found via our website. Retailers that are interested in What trends can we expect to see What’s coming up next for the business? carrying our yarns and patterns can also fill in in knitting and patterns over the We’re continuing to grow our social media a form online to find out more. coming season? presence, particularly in video, with the Scandi-style and vintage-inspired knits are launch of our YouTube channel. This is the What sets King Cole apart from still taking the fashion and home décor most popular form of online content and its competitors? worlds by storm. Cool, muted tones and is easily shareable with our followers and We’re frontrunners in pattern and yarn simple Nordic designs can be found in our customers, helping to gain exposure. We innovation. We keep things fresh and exciting new Chunky yarn, and in our Scandi Knits are working on product development and by launching new products throughout the Christmas Book 1. Reviving retro King Cole are very excited for new lines planned for year, as opposed to seasonally or biannually. patterns is also something we’ve been autumn/winter 2019/2020. We continue to Our minds and yarns never stop spinning working on, making sure to add modern explore new markets across the world and are when it comes to creating the next best driving to expand our overseas distribution. product. Recent examples include our incredibly successful Finesse Cotton Silk and Funny Yummy, which launched in July. We’re also the only yarn company to create in-house videos that feature our Director Mike Wilson and UK Sales Manager Jo Humberstone, who personally talk viewers through our new product launches.

How are you finding the current economic climate? It is challenging but we continue to grow ourselves through product innovation, market infiltration and expansion.

What’s your take on the British craft industry – would you say the sector is in good shape? The industry has never been better. With the press and NHS really getting behind the positive link between craft and mental health, we’re noticing more and more people of all ages picking up the needles and hooks in King Cole order to de-stress and enjoy a break from +44 (0)1756 703 670 screens and technology. kingcole.com

craftfocus 73 HHH Enterprises Together, Lets create the best The UK’s leading magazine HHH Exclusive made in USA belt buckles let for the craft industry artisians around the world create and fashion one of a kind fashion buckles

To advertise here telephone Tracy Voice on +44 (0)1376 535 618

HHH Ships globally and has been in business for over 30yrs Th e complete off ereings are at www.hhhenterprises.com Cwww.craftfocus.com US suppliers born in the USA Our favourite craft suppliers from across the pond

SHOW BUSINESS Registration has opened for Creativation 2019, which takes place from 17th-21st January at Phoenix Convention Center in Arizona. Presented by the Association for Creative Industries (AFCI), it is the largest and longest event of its kind, and features hands-on education, innovative product launches, trendspotting, influencer appearances, order writing and networking opportunities for thousands of craft businesses from around the world. “This will be our third consecutive year in Phoenix, which we’ve discovered is the United States’ underground arts hub,” says Andria Gibbon, CEM, Vice President of Education and Events for AFCI. “While the area is predominantly known for its desert and cacti, Downtown Phoenix has a ton of museums, theatres, concert halls, cultural centres and eye- catching murals on almost every block. We’re excited to partner with local businesses to provide more affordable and valuable experiences for our creative community when they visit.” Earlier this year, AFCI appointed Hotels for Hope as its official booking partner for the show. The Convention Center sits in the middle of a walkable area filled with independent restaurants, pubs and busy live music venues. Creativation is now accepting exhibitor applications. Suppliers of papercraft, paint, art materials, needlecrafts, sewing and textiles, home décor, woodworking, jewellery and beads, craft kits, children’s supplies, edible arts, storage and other items can sign up at creativationshow.org

BUCKLE UP HHH Enterprises supplies a huge range of jewellery-making materials including buckles, chains, charms and watch-making components. It also produces these stunning buckle blanks, which crafters can customise using beads, photographs and many other creative techniques. +1 800 777 0218 hhhenterprises.com

CAUGHT ON FILM Styletech Craft opal films offer something a little bit different. Each colour is much more than it appears, shifting dramatically from one shade to the next. The product can be used on almost any smooth surface, giving crafters a chance to add wow factor to their projects. It’s manufactured by Tape Technologies and available in the UK through Crafty Cutter. +1 284 0284 craftycutter.co.uk styletechcraft.com

craftfocus 75 born in the USA

CHECK IT OUT Checker Distributors supplies independent retailers across the UK with a choice of more than 140,000 products including quilting and sewing supplies. The company’s website has tools to check stock availability and previous invoices, as well as order status and top selling items. Products available include well-known brands and fabrics from more than 1,200 vendors including OmniGrid, Olfa and Clover notions, Hobbs and Bosal batting, Aurifil and Mettler thread, Benartex, Free Spirit, Michael Miller fabrics, C&T Publishing, Atkinson and Martingale patterns and books. EU customers can also take advantage of consolidated shipment via FedEx, with no weight requirements. Customers will not be charged VAT and products arrive within three days. +1 (419) 893 3636 SHRINK TO FIT checkerdist.com New Artist Series shrink film from Grafix features 12 pre-printed designs WILD THING by popular artists Gina Kim, Julie Fan-Fei Balzer and Marlene Meijer-van Tandy Leather’s Niekerk. The product is available in 8.5in x 11in packs, each containing two frontier bison pre-printed sheets of the same style and two clear sheets for tracing. This sides are full allows crafters to come up with their own inventive designs, and the shrink of rugged film can be used in jewellery-making, papercraft, home décor or school character. projects. Simply colour, cut out and bake. Creations will shrink to 20 per Bison leather cent of their original size and become nine times thicker. is known for +1 216 581 9050 its softness, grafixarts.com strength and durability, OFF THE CUFF and it offers Search Press is the UK and a fine choice European distributor for US for making imprint, Annie’s Publishing. chaps, work It has a wide range of titles aprons, jackets, available, including Fiddle moccasins and Mats, Muffs and Cuffs, which western-style includes eight projects décor items. that serve as a therapeutic The product is activity for those with available in two Alzheimer’s and other forms colours, raisin of dementia. Each design and brown, is made using different and measures textures and types of yarn. between 16 It’s priced at £7.99. and 18 square feet. Tandy also distributes bison kits, which +44 (0)1982 510 850 come with pre-cut and pre-punched leather, as well as searchpress.com needles, thread and full instructions. +44 (0)800 085 6765 tandyleather.com

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company profile

out of this world Stephen McAllister, Sales Director at Creative World of Crafts, talks knitting, home décor and crafting for pets Give us a brief history of Creative World of exciting quality designs and recognisable widely imitated but Crafts (CWOC). brands to market. This is particularly true can’t be beaten. We are Creative World of Crafts was set up by a of our knitting and crochet ranges, Caron, constantly bringing out group of people who, between them, have Bernat and Lily Sugar ‘n Cream, which are new versions and have more than 125 years’ crafting experience. well-recognised in the US and now feature some wonderful products The whole ethos of the company is to be heavily in the UK too. Knitty Critters is fast- in the pipeline. These design and brand-led, as well as giving becoming one of the most recognised design- include Caron x Pantone, retailers truly innovative products and led crochet kits on the market. John Lewis, which is a brand new great customer service. CWOC now boasts among others, was quick to identify this at and exciting concept for a fantastic selection of knitting and crochet CSHI Stitches and will be selling the products knitters and crocheters yarns, exclusive cross stitch kits using artwork in-store from August. alike. Caron, well-known by world-leading artists, an innovative and Cross stitch and papercraft design is also for colour, has teamed constantly evolving papercraft range and of a very important part of our business and we up with iconic Pantone to course, our own immensely popular Knitty will be launching our newest collections in introduce a collection of Critter kits, which are all manufactured in September 2018. yarns that is set to drive the UK. crafters wild. The product Do you have any new launches planned is packaged to include Talk us through the current for the rest of the year? 5x20g skeins, taking the product range. Our yarns are taking the market by storm, headache out of selecting We continually strive to bring new and particularly Caron Cakes, which have been complementary colours for projects. Also coming up is Bernat Maker Outdoor, a beautiful yet functional yarn that is both tactile and durable. This latest innovation is fade-resistant and long lasting. It boasts a bulkier gauge, allowing projects to be completed more quickly.

What are the big craft trends to be looking out for as we move into the autumn/winter period? We believe home décor is going to be huge this season, as is crafting for pets; we have interesting news on the latter so watch this space! Craft is a creative industry and is constantly evolving. That is why we work with leading brands and top designers to ensure we create the trends. We are not interested in following others, we want to be different and stay ahead of the curve, so our customers always have access to something that little bit different.

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What’s your take on the British craft CWOC certainly does exhibit at trade shows industry – do you think it’s a vibrant and we put a lot of thought into our stands, sector to work in? which have become a ‘must visit’, particularly Absolutely. It is very exciting working with in the case of our eye-catching displays at talented designers who are both proactive CHSI Stitches, where we like to do something and innovative. The market is ever-evolving, imaginative and different each year. We with new products being launched at several will also be attending Glee at the NEC different times of the year, so there is always Birmingham in September. something to keep retailers and consumers interested. Where and when can retailers get to see the company’s products? How are you finding the current We always want to speak with our retailers. economic climate? They can call us on +44 (0)1162 713 131 or go The craft industry is very robust and really online at creativeworldofcrafts.co.uk exciting to work in. In the office, we often say that ‘craft is our life’. The current climate Does the company offer marketing is obviously a little uncertain, which is why support to its customers? we continue to innovate. People may be We offer free pattern support and spending a little less on going out, but they freestanding POS, and we have also have more time to stay in and be creative, so commissioned a heavyweight advertising we are very optimistic about the future. and PR campaign both in print and online. We have world-leading yarn brands and are Does the company exhibit at any constantly looking at ways in which we can trade shows? help our customers. In addition, there is POS

and a national consumer advertising and PR campaign for all our brands. We have used these high-quality yarns for our Knitty Critter kits and they have been very well-received. The collection is constantly expanding; they make perfect gifts and have very broad customer appeal.

What’s coming up next for CWOC? We are continuing to come up with new designs and products and want to ensure that retailers see us as a one stop shop for all their crafting needs.

Creative World of Crafts +44 (0)1162 713 131 creativeworldofcrafts.co.uk

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baking & sugarcraft sugar & The latest trends in baking spice and sugarcraft Culpitt

craftfocus 83 sugargarspicear &

On show Making the cut Taking place from 2nd-4th Patchwork Cutters has introduced a range of polystyrene shapes to November 2018 at NEC use with two of its popular nursery-themed sets. The company’s pram Birmingham, Cake bases are ideal for use with corresponding cake toppers and its Make International is celebrating a Pram set, while styro blocks will help to create a lightweight base its 25th anniversary this for nursery building bricks and dice. The new collection is particularly year. The consumer show well-suited to christening and baby shower projects. is a must for sugarcraft Patchwork Cutters enthusiasts, and will +44 (0)151 678 5053 feature the work of some patchworkcutters.com of the UK’s most talented Full bloom designers. Highlights To celebrate its 70th include a high-stakes anniversary, FMM competition, cakes Sugarcraft has launched inspired by the works of Roald Dahl, a life-sized horse sculpture a special edition based on Michael Morpugo’s War Horse and the Duke and Duchess More Than a Dahlia of Sussex in cake form. cutter set. This vibrant ICHF Events daisy-like bloom looks +44 (0)1425 277 988 spectacular on wedding cakeinternational.co.uk and celebration cakes, and the set includes three cutters in sizes up to 10cm. The product can also be used to make waterlilies, chrysanthemums and fantasy flowers. FMM Sugarcraft +44 (0)1442 292 970 fmmsugarcraft.com

All that glitters New from F&W Media International, The Gilded Cake shows readers how to create metallic effects using a wide variety of techniques. The beautifully illustrated book explores the materials available to modern cake decorators, including gold leaf and edible paint, food-grade sprays, edible Style stakes glitter and lustre dusts. Culpitt’s new House of Cake mesh stencils can be used to Author and wedding cake decorate cakes and cupcakes with elegant, contemporary designer Faye Cahill also patterns. The product is made from soft, flexible fabric and can shares her expertise in the be washed and reused. Each stencil is designed to work with fine form of 12 step-by-step royal icing to achieve a crisp, clean design. There are three styles projects to make. available, measuring 150mm x 140mm. F&W Media Culpitt International +44 (0)1670 814 545 +44 (0)1392 797 680 culpitt.com fwcommunity.com

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how to grow your business As your company starts to expand, you may need to restructure from within. Sara Davies considers where to start

Like me, you may have started your business business or even develop an educational restructuring process. on a small scale, with just you and the aspect to your offer? Whatever your strategy, Next, re-evaluate your stock count. How support of family and friends to get it off make sure your employees are clear on it, so much will you need to increase by, where will the ground. This is a lovely way to begin, that everyone is striving for the same goal. it be stored and how will you keep track? The particularly as everyone on your payroll has systems you have in place now may not work a vested interest in your success! But what What’s next? for a larger company, so stay ahead of the happens as you grow, and the business needs Prepare your infrastructure so you can grow game to prevent hitting potential problems. to expand quickly? Here is my go-to guide to and cope with rising demand. If you are an Once you have the infrastructure in place, restructuring your company to accommodate online retailer, it might be worth upgrading it’s time to look at your workforce. Make sure these needs. your service provider or retail package. If you you prepare existing employees so they have First, make a plan. Ensure you have a clear are a shop, think about whether you will need the tools to help you grow. You can train idea of the direction you would like to take to move to a larger space in order to make them on anything from inducting new staff to and how you intend to get there. Perhaps you room for extra stock and supplies. Both might marketing. This is also the time to delegate want to expand into a new craft area, add a seem daunting at first, but futureproofing some of your responsibilities, freeing you up website to support your bricks and mortar your business is an important part of the to focus on new areas.

Forging ahead If employees are well trained it will be easier to structure your workforce. Smaller companies often have staff who do a little bit of everything, but giving everyone clearly defined roles and responsibilities will enable you to identify skills gaps or areas where extra people may be needed. This will be enormously helpful when it comes to future recruitment. Once you have a clear map of the workforce and your business capabilities, it’s important to take a step back. Look at your company from afar, understanding its strengths and recognising areas for improvement. If you identify something specific that you struggle with, consider taking outside assistance rather than trying to do everything yourself. This could be in the form of freelancers, who could build your website, work on your accounts or give business advice. If you start to hire more staff, you must also become more organised with HR and Sara Davies MBE is a payroll. Ensure you are well-versed on the Durham-born craft entrepreneur legal requirements that a larger workforce and founder of Crafter’s Companion. brings. It won’t be the most fun task, but it is crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk fundamental to your future success.

86 craftfocus 6XSSOLHUVRIҕQHTXDOLW\JODVVFHUDPLFVWRQHDQGQDWXUDO PRVDLFWLOHVDORQJVLGH0RVDLFUHODWHGVXQGULHVDQGWRROV

ZZZPRVDLFZKROHVDOHFRXN 0800 009 6560 LQIR#PRVDLFZKROHVDOHFRXN £4.95 FOR 8 STRIPS OF 8 £81 FOR 126 BOTTLES 64P PER BOTTLE POTS

£2.59 PER PACK OF 3 (20.5CM) £9 PER SET OF 3 (ASSORTED SIZE BUTTERFLIES) FROM £3.43 PER PACK OF 6

All prices exclude delivery and VAT adhesives adhesivesadhe s i v es stuck on you Make sure your adhesive offer includes everythingthing yyourour ccustomersustomers needneed

Trigger happy Supplied by Peak Dale Products, these hot and cool glue guns takeke between three and five minutes to heat up. Each gun can be used with hot or cool melt sticks, which bond within seconds and can be painted once dry. Both are produced by Stick It!. Peak Dale Products +44 (0)1298 784 47 peakdaleproducts.co.uk

A life of slime When combined with bicarbonate of soda and water, Beacon’s clear glue can be used to make slime in minutes. The handy adhesive can also be used in a variety of crafts and children’s projects, and it will bond felt, wood, paper, papier maché and cardboard. With no borax needed for this recipe, it is also safe for children to use. Creative Products Distribution +44 (0)20 8953 2143 creative-distribution.co.uk

Dot to dot Glue Dots are double-sided adhesive pads that provide a clean and easy solution when undertaking craft, hobby and home décor projects. Each dot bonds instantly to virtually any surface, and is mess-free and non-toxic, which makes it especially well-suited to scrapbooking, papercrafts and decorating. Unlike liquid glue, the product never dries out and is always on hand to tackle the next crafting project or endeavour. Personal Impressions +44 (0)1787 375 241 personalimpressions.com

craftfocus 89 ou

Multiple choice Crafter’s Companion has a selection of new adhesives in its current collection, including the ever-useful foam on a roll. The white, versatile tape features easy-lift backing paper, and is described as a must-have for fans of decoupage. Double-sided craft foam pads are also available. Perfect for making envelopes, the company’s red liner tape has extra- strong adhesive that mounts and bonds invisibly. It’s suitable for many different surfaces and can also withstand heat, so it can be covered with embossing powder. Lastly, Crafter’s Companion also has a new range of A4 adhesive sheets. The versatile product is acid-free and supplied in packs of six. Crafter’s Companion +44 (0)1388 660 930 crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

Little gem Beacon Adhesives has many different glues available, including Gem-Tac, which is ideal for fixing rhinestones onto garments, phones and even shoes. The non-toxic glue comes in four sizes, ranging from 5ml to 3.5 litres. It is crystal clear when Power & glory dry and doesn’t warp, Power-Tac can bond virtually any material. There is no which means it is one overpowering odour or carcinogenic substances, and the glue of the only adhesives has a professional formula that can grab and dry while remaining that can also be flexible. It never yellows or becomes brittle, and is ideal for fixing used to apply mirror- rhinestones. The product will stick to glass, plastic, wood, leather, backed stones. tile, stone, canvas and beads, and is waterproof and UV resistant, Creative Products which means it’s suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Distribution Creative Products Distribution +44 (0)20 8953 2143 +44 (0)20 8953 2143 creative- creative-distribution.co.uk distribution.co.uk

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Stick It Die-cutting Adhesive • LOW minimum order MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR DIE-CUTTING PRODUCTrequirement SALES for wholesale customers Manufactured specifically this autumn by stocking the best selling FREE NEXT DAY DELIVERY for the die-cutting process, • on all orders over £150 net STICK IT there’s a good chance that your ADHESIVE LTD Stick it is available in two customers will already be aware • Unit N, Long Meadow convenient sheet sizes Industrial Estate of our product but if they’re [email protected] Wimborne, Dorset not – now is your chance to let BH21 6RD Contact David at them know! Once they’ve used 01202 814061 for more information or to place your order. it – they’ll be back for more. eyes on the prize PR expert Michael O’Connor explains how giveaways and competitions can boost your blog rating

If you run a blog and you are serious about style to attract this kind of attention, you may you’re hoping to get out of your giveaway. increasing your followers, giveaways can be be well on your way to running a successful Your goal might be to encourage more extremely useful. Competitions like this are sponsored giveaway. Facebook likes or Instagram followers, or you a great way to thank your current followers To build credibility if you’re just starting may want to cement a relationship with a and also attract new ones. The craft industry out, include some honest and informative particular company. Once you have thought is full of reputable bloggers, and from a reviews. This will help you get to the stage about your objectives, get in contact with commercial aspect it can be a two-way street: where brands can become interested in you specific brands to source prizes and arrange brands want to utilise your followers and you as an advocate. for their promotion in return. This may consist want an exclusive on a product to review of backlinks to their website, a good review or or give away. I’ve recently run some great "Brands nowadays a link to their social media page. competitions and now I want to share some As a rule of thumb, the easier your of my ideas with you. are always on the competition or giveaway is, the more entries Brands nowadays are always on the you will get. The simplest way to achieve this lookout for bloggers to promote their lookout for bloggers is to invite your readers to leave a comment products. Studies have shown that brand to promote their on the relevant blog post. Bear in mind that if advocates are 70 per cent more likely to be you choose this option, you will have to make seen as a reliable source of information, as products." sure you pick the winner at random. well as being 50 per cent better at creating It’s also necessary to ensure that your blog content that influences people to buy. If you Giveaway goals post includes a disclosure notice stating feel your own blog has the right tone and The next step is to think about what it is your affiliation. In order to build credibility

92 craftfocus business advice 9393

focusfocus craft craft Grey Sergeant Michael O’Connor Spread the word the word Spread is up and running, you the giveaway Once it on social media. Be promote will need to by posting wary readers your of spamming you cause as this could multiple updates, per day or twice Once lose followers. to should all of your social networks through out. the word Remember, get be enough to to your readers if you have also prompted they may help you page, your Facebook like by sharing the your competition promote in the blogging post themselves. Friends don’t However, do this too. can community everyone emails to send frequent in your network, your reputation. as this may harm allow them a winner, have picked you Once verify their entryto amount of by giving a set you have notified you. When to reply time to know other readers let can you the person ask your to idea also a good who they It’s are. post on their own social pages, winner to reach. give you further you, to tagging [email protected] Platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Twitter Facebook, like Platforms long the must then post how You network as a means of gaining mandatory of gaining as a means network you This means draw. a prize entries into your Facebook like to your followers get can’t entry; an automatic as theypage must post a it to for in order your original site to comment be counted. a disclosure also insist that you post Pinterest stating update, on your competition notice with affiliated is in no way that your giveaway the social network. how the winner will will run for, competition to in touch and how they get can be picked, add also necessary to It’s claim their prize. in touch get to the person a time limit for pick another with you. This will allow you to quick wasn’t winner if the original entrant an age should set You up. follow enough to you will where or over), state 18 limit (ages may be UK (which ship the prize be willing to on how many people can only) and be clear win. actually the post themselves." competition by sharing competition you promote your your you promote page, they may help page, and conditions Terms on many social of Service agreements Terms use the cannot that you state websites like your Facebook your Facebook like your readers to to your readers have also prompted have also prompted "Remember, if you "Remember, with your audience, your readers have to have to your readers with your audience, hosting this are know how and why you you have used the whether competition, will be and who or service yourself product item. shipping the winner’s www.houseofalistair.com show preview stitching the future With 24,000 visitors expected to attend, this year’s Festival of Quilts is set to be the biggest and best yet

FESTIVAL OF QUILTS 9th – 12th August, 2018 NEC Birmingham thefestivalofquilts.co.uk @festivalofquilt

The Festival of Quilts is the destination of choice for quilting enthusiasts from across the world. This year highlights will include professionally curated galleries by artists of international acclaim, hundreds of workshops, an extensive programme of talks, discussions and social events and more than 300 exhibitors selling a selection of essential products and materials. US artist Nancy Crow will be headlining the event’s galleries with an exhibition of 75 quilted drawings. Her work, Explorations in Mono Printing, will be the largest she has displayed in the UK to date, and will occupy 350 square metres of space. The showcase will feature everything from small, early pieces to “Quilting has an important heritage and Fabrics specialists Alice Caroline will also be tall major works, hung in sequence so viewers we’re hugely excited to be welcoming the displaying some of the work it has created can follow Nancy’s progress. There will also 1718 silk coverlet to the 2018 festival,” says for the 2018 Quilt SOS initiative. The scheme be 30 galleries by a selection of leading artists Anna Baptiste, Events Director for The Festival produces beautiful handmade Liberty quilts including Shizuko Kuroha, Hilary Beattie and of Quilts. “It’s the oldest piece we have ever for children who have lost their families and Ruth Singer. displayed and it’s a privilege to be given are living in SOS Children’s Villages across the this wonderful opportunity by The Quilters’ world. This year’s project aims to create 66 HISTORIC TREASURES Guild to celebrate the origins of the craft of quilts for youngsters living in an SOS village Also on display this year is the UK’s earliest patchwork and quilting.” in Eastern Poland. “We are so happy that dated patchwork, the 1718 silk coverlet, Due to its age, the antique work will be we can support the making of these quilts th which will celebrate its 300 anniversary displayed in a specially built enclosed gallery. by subsidising the cost of the fabric,” says at the festival. The intricate work is the The area will have a controlled entrance and company owner, Alice Garrett. “I can’t wait to most treasured piece in The Quilters’ exit to ensure optimum viewing for all. see the beautiful work that forms this year’s Guild Collection, and has been extensively Visitors will also be able to view quilts amazing project.” researched since it was acquired in 2000. It has inspired by the coverlet in a one-off Other highlights will include the show’s also undergone x-ray analysis to examine its competition category for replica 1718 annual competition, which comes with a prize construction as well as conservation to ensure quilts. The winner will be given a private fund of £25,000. The contest attracts interest its stability and survival. audience with the historic work at the Guild’s from all over the world, with more than 750 headquarters in York. entries received and displayed each year. It Novice quilters are also invited to enter celebrates the quilts that transcend craft and their work in a new competition category, demand equal billing with gallery-quality with a chance to win £1,750 in prize money. art works. Entries will be judged by a panel Entrants must have been quilting for less than of leading figures from the art and quilting three years and not hold any formal textile worlds. In 2017, Philippa Naylor was awarded qualifications. “The new competition category Best in Show for her miniature work, Measure is a fantastic opportunity for those who are for Measure, which was described by judges relatively new to patchwork, quilting and as ‘an exquisite piece with a delicate feel and competitions to showcase their work,” adds subtle colouring’. The winner of the Fine Art Anna. “We’re looking forward to seeing some Quilt Masters prize was Margaret Ramsey exciting entries from a variety of talented for Birchington Breakwaters, a study of the fledgling quilters. fragility of disintegrating sea defences.

craftfocus 95 stitching the future

STAR QUALITY Quilting superstar Ricky Tims will host an evening of quilting stories, live music and humour as part of this year’s festival. Here, he talks about his show highlights.

What are you most looking forward to at this year’s festival? Besides the quilts, I’ll be looking forward to reunions with people I’ve crossed paths with in the past, as well as making new connections. My quilting friends have enriched my life so much that I would be lost without them.

You’ll be giving lectures as part of the popular workshop programme – what can visitors expect? My lecture classes are just that – classes! While I always try to make it entertaining, these masterclasses are designed to share a wealth of information in a short amount of time. These are the presentations where quilters will learn more than they would in a ‘sit and sew’ environment. I encourage everyone to sign up for at least one – they won’t be disappointed.

What are you currently working on? I have a short term BOM project called Hungarian Rhapsody. This has been a summer endeavour, featuring the work of more than 300 quilters. I’m also making a pattern of one of my most beloved quilts, Dad’s Lone Star.

What’s the best piece of quilting advice anyone has ever given you? Quilt because you love it. Quilt because you have to. The most memorable quote I was given was in reference to patience – it doesn’t take patience to do something you love. I believe that. I can spend hours on end just pushing through a quilt. Life’s ups and downs are embedded with each stitch and the memories stay with the quilt. Perhaps that is why these works become such treasures for future generations.

An Evening with Ricky Tims takes place at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Friday 10th August. For details, call 0844 581 1289 or visit thefestivalofquilts.co.uk

96 craftfocus Taylors Supplies Haberdashery wholesale, Augustus Street, off Empire Street, Cheethamhill, Manchester, Greater Manchester M3 1HZ

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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! NEWCLAY Used by professional sculptors - make your own statue or bust!

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Stuck for something to do in the summer holidays? Why not get modelling with Newclay’s great range of clays, all made in our factory in URO sunny Devon. FINGER You can make jewellery from SOFT this polymer clay! Fun for little ones!

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Half square Half square

THE KNOT THE 38” long, empty, from from 38” long, empty,

99’ white 3-ply cotton rope rope 3-ply cotton 99’ white Six 16.5’ lengths

Find the two outermost cords coming coming cords Find the two outermost of the ring. Work two SKs, out of the back Thread all the rope through the ring, through all the rope Thread so the centre bringing the ends together Hang the ring on a secured hook or an Hang the ring on a secured dowel. a supported S-hook hung from

(5mm diameter), 1¾” brass ring 1¾” brass (5mm diameter), list: Cut knot (HSK), square knot (SK), sinnet knot (SK), sinnet knot (HSK), square knot knots, half square of square knots (ASK), square alternating spiral, knots of square rounds alternating Supplies: top of ring to bottom of fringe bottom of ring to top Knots and techniques: Finished size: Vital statistics Vital tying using these two cords as your working ropes as your working ropes using these two cords as a filler. cords and all remaining of each length rests on the ring. Arrange them on the ring. Arrange length rests of each as possible. so they lie as flatly and neatly If you have a swivel clip, fasten it to the ring it to fasten If you have a swivel clip, hanging. before 3 2 Beginning your plant hanger your Beginning 1 Made with 3-ply cotton rope and a shiny rope Made with 3-ply cotton is a playful ring, this plant hanger brass one I made on a spring of the first variant Although kitchen. in my mum’s afternoon and again again this pattern I’ve altered the sweet appreciate I still the years, through simplicity of my initial design. These days it holding aloft bathroom, lives in my upstairs that doubles as an audience a philodendron sessions. my shower-singing for Macramé is having a moment right now. Artist and interior designer Emily Katz reveals how Katz reveals designer Emily interior Artist and right now. is having a moment Macramé plant hanger knotted this on-trend make to tyingTHETHE KNOT

Knotting With the SKs facing you, pick up the 4four front-most cords that are closest to the centre. Work a sinnet of six SKs using Four inches below the sinnet on your right, these cords. 7work a column consisting of two SKs, a spiral of 12 HSKs and then four SKs.

Plant hanger pointers • When making plant hangers, always measure carefully so that your knots line up properly. That way your finished piece (and its contents) will be properly balanced.

• When you get to the bottom, feel free to make additional knotting or leave the fringe a bit longer than the pattern states, if desired. Make your plant hanger to suit both 2” below, work a column consisting of two Next, 5½” below the sinnet on the left, you and your space. 5SKs, a spiral of 12 HSKs and then six SKs. 8work a column consisting of two SKs, a spiral of 12 HSKs and then two SKs. At this • In each pattern, you will find a point, the lowest knots you’ve worked should measurement for the finished length of the line up with each other vertically. If they are plant hanger when empty. Once you place a not even, take a moment to adjust pot inside, however, the plant hanger’s total your knotting. length may actually decrease by several inches. This is because the ropes of the plant hanger no longer hang down vertically with a pot inside, but at an angle. How much a particular pot will shorten your plant hanger is difficult to predict as it depends on the pot’s exact size and shape. In general, the larger and wider the pot, the greater this shortening effect. If, however, the rope you use to make your plant hanger is stretchy, the weight of the pot may pull the ropes out to counteract this effect. If your length requirements are very specific, you may wish Turn your work so that the opposite side is to wait to cut the fringe at the bottom until facing you, and divide the remaining eight 6 after you have placed your pot inside so that cords into two groups of four, making sure 6” below, work a round of SKs. you can tailor the fringe length precisely to none of them are twisted around each other. 9 your space. Work a sinnet of six SKs with each group. To form the basket, work a round of 10ASKs 2” below the previous round and then a second round of ASKs directly Reprinted with permission from Modern below that. Macrame: 33 Stylish Projects for Your Handmade Home by Emily Katz with Find the two longest remaining cords interior design photographs by Nicole and use them to work a spiral of 12 11 Franzen. It’s published HSKs around all other remaining cords. by Ten Speed Press, a division of Penguin Finishing Random House. Call Trim all cords 6” below the lowest knot. +44 (0)1273 402 873 or 12 go to gmcgroup.com Unravel the cords 13 for details.

100 craftfocus Here at Art and Craft Factory we are passionate about crafts and are committed to delivering value to customers through a speedy service, quality products and a “can do” ethos. We are the only UK pipe cleaner manufacturer and also produce pom poms, sequins and turned paper shapes to the highest quality in our factory in Hudderfi eld, Yorkshire. As experts in sourcing other crafts materials we can offer you a wide range of crafting essentials perfect for any ability. Visit our website to explore our range and fi nd out more about our high quality manufactured ranges suited for beginners right through to advanced crafters

10% off use the code ‘artandcraftfocus’ www.artandcraftfactory.co.uk 01484 487522 hedging your bets Economist Jeremy Thomson-Cook looks at the challenges of running an international craft company For the last 18 months, the world has ago, but the tremors are still being felt across Think global been spinning on an unpredictable axis of the margins for UK craft retailers. It is important to remember that retail is macroeconomic change, with every update In order to protect against this risk, not a purely domestic industry and many from China, the US and the UK seeming companies must hedge their currency of our national champions are exporters to destabilise the status quo even further. requirements and lock in the margins they with operations around the world. Focusing It’s a difficult time to run a craft business, wish to obtain. Larger issues such as global on international sales, while initially time particularly one that sells its goods or trade, customs arrangements and tariff consuming, is one of the easiest ways for a services overseas or sources its materials enforcement cannot be controlled by small company to diversify its consumer base out of from abroad. and medium sized firms, but margins, and a single geographical region. Currencies are volatile and can make the risk that currency poses to them, can be. Where previously time and money would fraying margins even more threadbare. Hedge the controllable risk in your business have to be spent setting up and monitoring Brexit may create unnecessary hurdles with and the impact of uncontrollable risks will be these channels, e-commerce marketplaces key customers, and UK consumer spending a lot more manageable. can now do all of this at the click of a button, habits are changing at a frenetic pace, with Having said this, the agreement of a whether the business supplies 20 or 20,000 no signs of letting up any time soon. transitional deal at the end of March to keep different products. the UK a member of the single market and In combination with a solid ground service Running the risk customs union is unequivocal good news for for British shoppers, craft retailers can As soon as a craft company crosses international business. SMEs would be well- diversify themselves away from a pressured international borders it takes on a currency minded to use this additional time to have UK consumer and set themselves up to risk, whether it trades as an importer, conversations with foreign suppliers on the prosper from international demand and exporter or simply part of an integrated logistics and payment terms that will govern changes in consumer shopping behaviour by supply chain. Sterling’s fall in value following these relationships once the Brexit process is looking further afield and thinking global. the EU referendum may have been two years finally complete.

A regular contributor to BBC News, Jeremy Thomson- Cook is Chief Economist at WorldFirst. worldfirst.com

102 craftfocus EGGERS DELIGHT & eLitE miNiatUreS

Everything you need to decorate eggs Eggers Delight have been supplying the egg decorating enthuasts for many years, over this time we have added new products and developed our range. Check out our website www.eggersdelight.com or contact us on 01903 725593 or email [email protected] if you have any questions. strategic planning Kay Tilbury, Social Media Marketer from KD Media Publishing Ltd, tells us why social media is such a powerful tool for businesses

Social media is evolving faster than ever. If you want to stay ahead of customers – best of all it’s free to join! the competition, you have to know which platforms to use and how to The creators behind-the-scenes of these platforms have really harness their respective marketing opportunities. What was once an noticed how beneficial these sites can be for businesses too, with additional boost to your brand is now an essential if you really want it a variety of advertising campaigns, page boosts and an option to reach its full potential. The number of social media users worldwide to specifically target audiences now available. These are paid-for this year is a staggering 3.196 billion, that’s an audience you want to advertisements, but it’s a highly cost-effective way to expand the reach capture, whatever your industry. of your business. Popular sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram give you the Brands must be fully invested in their social media marketing, with a opportunity to increase your brand’s awareness, generate leads, keep clear strategy and goal in place. Here are my top tips on the steps you up-to-date with industry news and help you learn more about your should take to get started:

DECIDE ON YOUR NETWORKING SITES Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube are today’s most popular sites. It’s therefore important to familiarise yourself with each platform to find out how they work and which audiences they GOALS, OBJECTIVES, TIMELINE appeal to, then decide which platform is RESEARCH COMPETITORS You simply can’t move forward without best suited to your brand. Investigate which channels your knowing what you’re working towards, so competitors are using and the content with your company’s needs in mind set they’re posting, as this will help you realistic, measurable goals. What are you gauge what works best in your industry. trying to achieve? Define your business’s Other brand’s contents may inspire your objectives and – most importantly – ¥ ¥ posting styles too. make sure you allow time each day to be active on your channels. A neglected

account can be damaging to your brand. ¥STRATEGIC

PLANNING

FIND YOUR VOICE ¥ ANALYSE AND REACT ¥ Ensure your brand’s voice is engaging, purposeful ¥ A social media strategy isn’t and has the right tone. Listen to how customers set in stone, so analyse your and others in your industry communicate content, audience and timings. with each other – is it formal, casual or even Continuously keep an eye on the quirky? But remember, you wouldn’t speak to a BUDGET competition. Don’t be afraid to colleague the same way you’d speak to a friend, Targeted advertising on social re-evaluate your and you wouldn’t speak to a friend the same media can be very powerful when strategy if needed. way you’d speak to a customer. Exactly the same it comes to boosting your brand principle applies to social media for business. and content, so set yourself a small REMEMBER, EACH GOAL SHOULD BE It’s essential to remember you’re representing a budget to test which promotional SMART – SPECIFIC, MEASURABLE, brand too, so always use ‘we’ instead of ‘I’. tools work best for you. ATTAINABLE, RELEVANT AND TIME-BOUND!

104 craftfocus South West’s favourite Needle and Hobby Craft Exhibition is back at the Bath & West Showground, 18th – 20th October 2018 Shepton Mallet.

5IF$SBGU$SBGUFST4IPXøSFUVSOTøXJUIBGBOUBTUJD ø)PCCZ ø BOPUIFS$SBGU$SBGUFSTFWFOUBUUIF#BUIBOE8FTU4IPXHSPVOE 5FYUJMFøø2VJMUJOHQBDLFEFYIJCJUJPOø5IFTIPXøCSJOHTBWBTU JO"QSJM0SJHJOBMMZMBVODIFEJOUIFTCZ/BUJPOXJEF BSSBZPGøMFBEJOHøDSBGUøTVQQMJFST øEFNPOTUSBUPST XPSLTIPQT  &YIJCJUJPOT JUMPTUJUTEJSFDUJPOVOEFS5SJEFOU&YIJCJUJPOTCVU NBLFUBLFTøBOEEJTQMBZTi8FIPQFWJTJUPSTXJMMCF IBTCFFOSFJOWFOUFECZ$SBGU$SBGUFSTBOEJTTFFJOHBMBSHF JNQSFTTFEXJUIøUIFøTDPQFPGDSBGUTBWBJMBCMFBUUIFTIPXw BUUFOEBODFUISPVHIJUTEPPSTPODFNPSFi*XPSLFEPOUIF TBZTEJSFDUPS"OESFXø5IPSQFøi8FIBWFJODSFBTFEUIFUSBEFS PSJHJOBMTIPXBOESFNFNCFSIPXCVTZJUVTFEUPCFwTBZT OVNCFSTPOUIFNBJOnPPS BTXFMMBTBHBJOPQFOJOHBTFDPOE 4BMFT.BOBHFS %FCCJF#BJMFZi*OJUJBMMZPVSmSTUTIPXXBTB IBMMEFEJDBUFEUPRVJMUJOHBOEUFYUJMFT NBLJOHUIFTIPXPOFPG MJUUMFTMPXCVUOPX ZFBSTJO UIFFWFOUGFFMTMJLFUIFPME UIFMBSHFTUPGJUTLJOEJOUIFSFHJPOwø8JUIPWFSFYIJCJUPST  TIPXT CVTZ FYDJUJOHXJUIBGBOUBTUJDCV[[XIFOZPVBSFPO EJTQMBZT XPSLTIPQTBOEMJWFEFNPOTUSBUJPOT UIFTIPXJTB UIFnPPSw QFSGFDUFWFOUUPBUUFOEJOQSFQBSBUJPOGPS$ISJTUNBTBOEHFUUJOH UIPTFHSFBU$ISJTUNBT$SBGUJOHJEFBTBOETVQQMJFT 5IFGPSUIDPNJOH0DUPCFSTIPXJTFYQFDUFEUPTFFSFDPSE OVNCFSTBUUFOEJOHXJUIJUTIBMMTCBMDPOZ UFYUJMFBOERVJMU 5IF$SBGU$SBGUFST4IPXIBTCFFOSVOOJOHMBSHF$SBGUBOE EJTQMBZTBOEBMBSHF EJWFSTFUSBEFSBUUFOEBODF4IPXGFBUVSFT 5FYUJMFFWFOUTJOUIF4PVUI8FTUGPSPWFSZFBSTø5IFTF JODMVEFUIFIVHFMZQPQVMBSA#SJT8PPM8PPMMFO$JUZ B JODMVEFUIFXFMMFTUBCMJTIFE8FTUQPJOU &YFUFSTIPXXIJDI UISFFEJNFOTJPOBMXPPMMFONPEFMPG#SJTUPMXIJDIJODMVEFT SVOTFBSMZJOUIFZFBS*UJTDPOTJEFSFECZNBOZBTPOFPGUIF SFQSPEVDUJPOTPGøDJUZøMBOENBSLTTVDIBTUIF$MJGUPO CFTUDSBGUJOHFWFOUTJOUIF4PVUI8FTU XJUITVDIBMBSHF 4VTQFOTJPO#SJEHFBOEUIF44(SFBU#SJUBJO5IFQJFDF BUUFOEBODF USBEFSTmOEJUBQPTJUJWFXBZUPTUBSUUIF/FX:FBS IBTCFFODSPDIFUFEBOELOJUUFECZNPSFUIBOWPMVOUFFST *OBEEJUJPOUPUIF0DUPCFSTIPX UIFDPNQBOZBMTPIPTU BOEUIFEJTQMBZBMPOFBUUSBDUFETXIFOMBTUTIPXO

If you are interested in fi nding out more about the shows please visit www.craft4crafters.co.uk or email [email protected] word count David Fairhurst looks at the importance of focused category names for e-commerce

Trying to optimise a website for organic search about online marketing, especially those who assuming a willingness to learn and the time results can sometimes be likened to playing a have been convinced by some of the shadier to do it. There. I’ve said it! No mystic ninja game of cards for high stakes in which nobody members of our profession that Search throwing star skills required. will tell you the rules or what you forfeit if you Engine Optimisation (SEO) is some kind of There is a quite huge caveat to the above lose out. voodoo that only those who have spent statement when you are optimising an Google, especially, loves to come out with years in meditation (probably at the top of a e-commerce website. You’ve got to think half-truths, innuendo and contradiction with mountain, cross-legged and surrounded by not like a retailer but like a consumer at its ever-changing policies for both organic chanting monks) can perform. every point in the entire optimisation and and paid search programmes – it’s sometimes Whilst it’s true that working in the online promotion process. hard for even seasoned online marketing marketing industry can be ‘challenging’ – A large portion of planning SEO strategy professionals to know who to believe. read: mind-bendingly frustrating – at times, involves finding out what people are searching It’s no wonder the majority of new I’m here to tell you that SEO is common sense. for and want because there is no point in e-commerce retailers I speak to are nervous Anybody can optimise and promote a website, ranking for what nobody is looking for!

106 craftfocus business advice 107

focus craft Call David on +44 (0)845 680 0126. Further information: Further David Fairhurst is Head of Creative of Creative is Head David Fairhurst engine optimisation (SEO) and web David has been involved with search David has been involved with search Online Marketing at Intelligent Retail. at Intelligent Online Marketing including Spring Fair and SES London. and SES London. including Spring Fair many different retail and SEO conferences conferences SEO and retail many different This is important to remember when remember to This is important selling “sports if you are As an example, website created With planning, your freshly development since 1999 and has spoken at 1999 and has spoken development since in e-commerce because having more than having more because in e-commerce the targeting within a website one page leaching to lead will of keyphrases same set in page each Ideally, effectiveness. of page one set should be optimised for the website and this set keyphrases, of closely related on any other page. should not be reflected types product and different adding brands the mix. into by gender categorise and wish to watches” sense girls’) it makes boys’, women’s, (men’s, category sports watches” have a “men’s to for categories alongside sports watch women, girls and boys and then segment to as well. But don’t be tempted by brand by adding duplication into then be dragged which top-level category, ‘brands’ a separate your optimisation efforts. dilute could on focused should be totally structure category and terms popular search that are keyphrases have a history conversions. of promoting Getting an initial list together is important is important an initial list together Getting (with less- the process streamline To and then you these suggestions, Capture Avoiding duplication Avoiding is important duplication category Avoiding together before any research can be carried be carried can any research before together it’s you have this data, once out. However, an it into extrapolating start to easy fairly keyphrase put through initial list you can of idea an get to in order tools research volumes and competitiveness. search by using keyphrase be made easier and can https://goo.gl/KTva0P like tools suggestion tool, own suggestion and even Google’s Just Google search. into which is integrated a list of typing, and you should get start your initial lists. expand to suggestions Google use you can than-optimal results), tool suggestion own keyphrase AdWords’ this will suggest https://goo.gl/oJ5HXX, that have been seen relating keyphrases in AdWords of keyphrases set your base to previously. campaigns and search competition to proceed can This should give you not volume research. names but of optimal category only an idea content creating for also a solid foundation need this to going You’re those pages. for have any to in order pages your category for competitive more well for of ranking chance The whole aim of this research keyphrases. names that reflect choose category is to and have a worthwhile offering what you are choose volume. If you can amount of search names that also have lower-than-expected then even better. volumes of competition, on website This puts the new e-commerce forward. going the best possible footing

I always try to get into the planning of the planning into tryI always get to names requires Planning category see can online marketer a good In a way, are tools research keyphrase All good Categorising product content requires a requires content product Categorising on what focus and a definite approach logical SEO purposes, it’s For for. people may search any in all the keyphrases cover to important possibly bring in that could vertical trading a sale. convert into and may traffic useful if possible, early website an e-commerce has been decided. structure category before can that the right categories This ensures Doing this gives the maximum be created. in any on-going success for potential we work on. website each for promotion This undertaken. be to research keyphrase on based name categories you can way and estimates traffic keyphrase projected data. competitiveness of success revenue and chances the potential is created the website before any website for vertical, just by knowing the trading going that are and the brands ranges product be stocked. to are There data. on solid, real-world based help on the web to out there tools many paid Google AdWords However, with research. Research use its Keyphrase still allows you to and data search find historical to tool need a Google AdWords You competitiveness. this, which is free. for account Method on website of a brand-new promotion For all a bit domain, things are a brand-new lists of brands, manual and involve getting lines and maybe even product products Keyphrase research Keyphrase LIGHT & SHADE Tracy Voice, Account Manager at Craft Focus, tries her hand at Needcraft’s rounded rectangle lampshade kit

THE PRODUCT

Ideal for crafters who enjoy a home décor challenge, Needcraft’s rounded rectangle lampshade kit can be matched with upholstery, curtains, wallpaper or individual room themes. It’s available in three different sizes and will work with both UK and European light fittings. The finished product measures 20cm x 10cm and can be used either as a pendent or with a suitable table lamp. It’s simple to make, and contains step-by-step photographic instructions.

HOW TO USE IT

I love to craft in my spare time, but I haven’t tried making a lampshade before, so this was new territory for me. The kit contains two frames and a large sheet of professional- quality lampshade PVC. A length of fabric measuring approximately 640mm x 240mm is also required – I used a space piece left over from another project. I decided to create a table lamp, which means the utility frame needs to be positioned at the bottom. To make the shade, simply spread your chosen fabric pattern-side down on a clean table or work surface. Place the PVC on top and pull away the backing so it sticks to the laminate. It’s already cut to size, which makes this step surprisingly simple. Trim the surplus fabric away, before snapping back the creased edges of the PVC. Wrap double-sided tape around the edges of the frame, then stick carefully to the material. Use a tool to push the REASONS TO STOCK fabric ends out of the way. • Kits available in a range of size and shapes I’m delighted with my finished lamp. It looks • No previous experience or special Needcraft by Dannells very professional and I can’t wait to display skills needed +44 (0)1992 700 311 it at home. The instructions were easy to • A great gift idea dannells.com follow, even for a beginner, and there’s also a handy demonstration video on the company’s If you have a product you’d like us to try, get in contact with Andrea Ashfield at website if you get stuck. [email protected].

108 craftfocus

NEXT ISSUE… Don’t miss the October/November 2018 edition of Craft Focus Winter wonderland Last-minute Christmas profit boosters

Little gems Renew your jewellery making supplies

All sewn up Haberdashery must-haves

Playing to the gallery Stock up on art materials Patchwork planet Don’t forget to pick The latest quilting trends up your copy…. Craft Focusis packed full of the newest product launches, industry news and business advice from leading experts in the fields of retail, e-commerce and business management.

October/November 2018 (issue 69) Advertising deadline: 19th September, 2018 Published: 10th October, 2018

110 craftfocus MEDIA PUBLISHING YOUR ULTIMATE TRADE MEDIA EXPERIENCE… RXUEXVLQHVVLV\RXUV

Published six times per year, each of our trade publications provide retailers with the latest news, views and products from across their respective industry sectors.

Boasting exceptional print and digital platforms, Craft Focus, Gift Focus, Attire Bridal and Attire Accessories have become & market leaders in their respective fields – trailblazing the industry with inspiring, INTRODUCING THE engaging and empowering content An interactive directory listing for the trade, the iProfile is the brainchild designed to drive your business forward. of KD Media Publishing and brings a new marketing experience to trade retailers across the country. The iProfile was born in response With crucial media partnerships now signed to demand for a digital-savvy and flexible solution that allows with some of the major trade shows in the clients’ multimedia to be incorporated into an enhanced listing. UK and beyond, KD Media Publishing’s Simultaneously, clients may take advantage of the benefits provided portfolio of trade titles are a collective by our own popular trade websites. A year-long listing, with tangible, powerhouse of knowledge and connections measurable results, the iProfile is already taking the industry by storm. which benefit from exceptional and targeted For further information, contact Marketing Manager, Michael Richards distribution, further bolstered by official on [email protected] media partner status at these key events.

ATTIRE ATTIRE craftfocus.com attirebridal.comBridal attireaccessories.comAccessories giftfocus.com @CraftFocus @attirebridal @AttireAccMag @gift_focus craftfocusmag attirebridal attireaccessories giftfocusmag /CraftFocus /AttireBridal /AttireAccessories /GiftFocus craftfocus.com Keep up-to-date with what happens in the craft industry in between each of our bi-monthly issues. craftfocus.com contains up-to-the minute news, details of the latest events, as well as helpful business articles, information about brand spanking new products and details of companies that can help your business to thrive.

Envelopes Ltd, simply-envelopes.co.uk

Comprehensive directory? Looking for new companies to do business with or searching for original products to stock, then check out our trade suppliers directory, it’s jam packed with Lion Brand, lionbrand.com wholesale suppliers waiting to work with you. iProfile The iProfile pages allows wholesale businesses to display video content, galleries of images, web links, descriptive text and social media links in user-friendly format. It’s more than just a directory listing, and acts as an extension of your own website. The iProfile boasts the significant advantage whereby you can access an exceptional and targeted audience, thereby boosting your potential to tap into new business opportunities. Visitors to our site are actively seeking to connect with businesses like yours, and via the iProfile, they can learn about your services and products, explore all you have to offer, make informed decisions, and connect with you directly - all from one click.

Showcase your products? Missed an issue? Do you want to advertise Download back issues more than 10 issues to read when with us and share your it’s convenient to you MEDIA PACK Corinne Lapierre products with 6,500 craft industry retailers? Download a copy of our “The Craft Focus website is comprehensive media pack for everything you need Hantex updated regularly with the Buttonbag to know about advertising latest information to help with us or if you prefer to talk, give Tracy Voice, our you advance your business.” Account Manager, a call on +44 (0)1376 535 618 where she’ll be very happy to talk Button Company to you. www.craftfocus.com Log onto craftfocus.com to find out more!

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Issue 68 www.craftfocus.com

Craft Focus contains all the recent product Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP or visit Coming up launches, latest news, and details about all craftfocus.com and click on subscribe. Crowning LOOK SHARP GLORY Latest on-trend Beautiful yarns for cactus designs Subscription form the season ahead BUYER’S Do you work in the craft industry? MARKET 29 pages of new product inspiration Yes No Smashing Name pumpkins Halloween crafts to Job title boost autumn trade Company name HOLIDAY PLUS SPIRIT Address • Autumn Fair This year’s Christmas essentials • Festival of Quilts Postcode • Restructuring your business Telephone Facsimile www.craftfocus.com Email

Please tick one or more of the boxes below which best describe your 2018 June/July www.craftfocus.com business. 67 Issue LONDON Coming up STATIONERY Independent art and craft shop Wool shop roes SHOW Is papercraft still blooming? This year’s Art and craft multiple Model shop trends revealed Department store Toy shop Needlecraft retailer Wholesaler/Cash & Carry HELLO Haberdashery Importer SUNSHINE Holiday crafts for kids Mail order Agent/Rep Other (please specify) TAKING NOTES Must-have creative stationery LITTLE Number of Employees EXTRAS Low-cost profit boosters PLUS 1 - 5 6 - 15 • New season fabrics • Back to school basics 16 - 30 31 - 50 • The art of networking 30/05/2018 09:22 www.craftfocus.com 51 - 100 101 - 300

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Issue 66 301 - 1,000 1,001 + www.craftfocus.com Annual Turnover CHSI Stitches LONDON Full show review STATIONERY £0 - £25,000 £25,001 - £50,000 SHOW • What to see £50,001 - £100,000 £100,001 - £250,000 • Trend forecast £250,001 - £1,000,000 £1,000,001 - £5,000,000 Home grown British craft your £5,000,001 - £10,000,000 £10,000,001 - £50,000,000 customers will love DAD’S ARMY £50,000,001 + Must-have Father’s Day makes Do you wish to receive a free copy of Craft Focus Magazine? Yes No SEASONAL BEST Stock up for summer Signature Date PLUS • Crafting for men • Creativeworld roundup If you would like to receive occasional emails from us to tell you about new products and trends, latest • Expanding your business

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craftfocus 113 Leading industry experts help with your craft and retail dilemmas

FOKKE ROS ANDREA ASHFIELD Marketing Manager, PlastiKote Editor, Craft Focus plasti-kote.co.uk craftfocus.com Fokke Ros is marketing manager at Andrea Ashfield is a journalist with PlastiKote, producers of spray paint for the 20 years’ experience. She has written craft and home improvement sector. for a wide range of magazines on subjects including crafts, homes “Upcycling is really popular at the and gardens, weddings and the moment, and I’d like to use this trend hospitality industry. to increase sales within my store. Whatt products should I be stocking, and howws shouldhoh ulld I prpromoteomote “I’m so busy running my business that I rarely update our this trend?” social media – am I missing a trick?” The fashion for upcycling shows no signs of waning, and retailers Absolutely! Social media is here to stay, and it can be an continue to see sales of spray paint increasing. Customers want extremely useful tool to help promote your business. Consumers to be able to reuse and repurpose, turning their unloved items are increasingly finding craft inspiration via sites like Facebook into treasured possessions once more. For crafters, transforming and Instagram, and these networks provide a valuable the ordinary into the extraordinary is made easy with spray paint; opportunity to speak directly to existing customers and engage bottles can be turned into decorative candle holders, tin cans into new ones. If you want your company to seem up-to-date, a solid useful garden planters and glass jars into pretty tea light holders. social media presence is increasingly important. Many retailers display small ‘before’ and ‘after’ projects to The first step is to identify which networks are most relevant to inspire their customers. With Christmas not far away, metallics your customer base. You don’t need to be active on every single and glitters come into their own. A few sprayed leaves and cones platform – start with two or three that seem most relevant to displayed on a shelf or in the window will look stunning and you. Facebook is something of a catch-all, and with 2.2 billion entice the customers to have a go. monthly active users, it’s hard to ignore. Instagram is a mobile- We’re busy on our monthly blog (spraypaintideas.co.uk), only service and provides a great way to share visually appealing Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook promoting our spray paints product shots. You can also create interest by hosting giveaways with fabulous projects to inspire our followers, showing them just and competitions across these networks by inviting entrants to how quick and easy it can be. like and share your posts. Fast dry enamel and metallics are popular for craft projects, If you want your business to appear current in an increasingly as is the multi-purpose twist and spray collection. Our new competitive marketplace, it’s a good idea to update each chalk spray paint has tapped into an on-going trend for a matt, platform on a regular basis. When you’re busy running a bricks chalky finish for home interiors and is proving very popular with and mortar shop, finding the time may be a challenge, so consumers that want to achieve this look at an affordable price. decide upon a schedule and stick to it. You may also wish to train and appoint a particular member of staff to be in charge of your company’s social media presence, and remember that it’s possible to schedule posts to appear in advance, so you can work on content in quieter moments.

114 craftfocus