www.craftfocus.com June/July 2016 June/July Issue 55 www.craftfocus.com BEST OF BRITISH We celebrate UK brands SHOW REVIEWS h+h Cologne, London Stationery Show

FABRIC FOCUS Stay abreast of the new collections

THE GREAT OUTDOORS PLUS Take your crafting outside Business advice from leading experts

June/July issue 55

Editor-in-Chief Alexandra North +44 (0)1376 535 611 Editor Julie Bonnar +44 (0)1376 514 000 [email protected] contents Chief Sub Editor Louise Prance Director of Sales & Marketing Tony Fields +44 (0)1376 538 480 17 Sales Manager Michael Richards regulars +44 (0) 1376 538 481 editor’s letter 5 [email protected] An overview of what to expect in this issue Account Manager Tracy Voice industry news 7 +44 (0)1376 535 618 [email protected] What’s happening within the craft market Production Manager Scott Brothwell brand spanking new 17 Deputy Production Manager A look at the latest product launches Sarah Young Senior Graphic Designer bookstand 58 Vicky O’Connor The newest craft-related book releases Graphic Designer Stephanie Hodder, Amy Smith +44 (0)1376 535 616 project 71 [email protected] Crochet pastel purse from Hoooked Production Assistant Charlotte Potter competition 74 Web Development Manager Stuart Weatherley Celebrate the arrival of the Grafitec Subscriptions tapestry range to Solocrafts Beth Varney 73 +44 (0)1376 514 000 KD Media Publishing Limited features Pantile House, Newlands Drive neat notions 41 Witham, Essex, CM8 2AP, UK www.craftfocus.com Haberdashery to make light work of soft crafting Front cover image: 34 Thanks to PlastiKote happy holidays 51 With summer fast approaching, we look at ideas ISSN 1758-0900 Craft Focus is solely owned, published and to entertain the kids designed by KD Media Publishing Limited. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information great outdoors 62 in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal We reveal a range of products to take crafting outside responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The arm candy 73 views expressed do not necessarily reflect those Products that bag makers and lovers will want to buy of the publisher. Craft Focus is published six times a year. Subscription rates for overseas readers are £75 per annum (incl. p+p), Cheques should be celebrating British brands 77 made out to KD Media Publishing Limited and sent We talk to UK manufacturers and designers to Craft Focus, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex, CM8 2AP, United Kingdom. across the pond 85 Julie Bonnar catches up with US distributors and shows manufacturers about products on offer Craft Focus magazine is proud to be associated with and supporters of: show news 28 Keep up-to-date with what’s happening in a little light 87 your industry The latest products to shed light on crafting

stationery matters 34 focus on fabrics 91 News from London Stationery Show We reveal the latest fabric collection releases

creative in cologne 39 collage crazy 104 We report back from the textile trade fair Collaging is the next big thing for crafters – we look at in Germany a few of the product offerings for early adopters

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focus on contemporary cotton 46 We talk to Dani Phillips from The Craft Cotton Co about the brand’s exciting craft fabric ranges taking shape 68 Sharron Belcher from Vlieseline talks to Craft Focus about changes within the company tried and tested 97 Julie Bonnar puts the new Sakura Pen-touch Ceramglass through its paces ask the experts 99 Leading experts in the industry help with retailing and crafting dilemmas up and coming 106 We chat to Jules Fallon from Sew Me Something about the pattern business celebrating 5 years of craft distribution 102 That’s Original explain why the company loves creativity

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business advice laying the groundwork for e-commerce 48 David Fairhurst from Intelligent Retail explains why it pays to plan ahead when setting up a new e-commerce website launch where to start in business 56 Sara Davies talks about what type of business is best for you original or copy: do you know the difference? 60 Dids Macdonald, CEO of Anti Copying in Design, looks at the biggest IP myths in the design industry

4 craftfocus 17 a celebration ooff cracraftft Where has the first half of 2016 gone? I can’t quite believe it but we’re already six months into the year. If like me, you prefer the summertime, then you should take a look at the great outdoors feature on page 60 where you’ll find some inspiring ideas to either take crafting outside or nature-inspired projects. This issue celebrates UK brands and all that’s British (page 77). There are many reasons to fly the flag this year as we commemorate a Royal birthday, and support TeamGB at the Olympics in Rio. Hot on the heels of this, we look to meet and greet companies from across the Atlantic, and catch up with distributors and manufacturers of the US (page 85). I start a new feature this month, where we put your questions to the experts to get some helpful advice for retail dilemmas (page 99). Do also make sure you enter our competition (page 74) for a chance to win needlecraft goodies from Solocrafts.

Until the next time,

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

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Wholesale cash & carry DIRECT No minimum order requirements Free UK Over Night Delivery Quantity Discounts applied for order’s collected or delivered. Order by Web shop, Telephone, Fax, or Email www.focuscraft.co.uk t. 01743 465 788 f. 01743 465 799 [email protected] industry news industry news A round up of news from the crafting industry STAEDTLER CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY IN UK Staedtler is celebrating 50 years of excellence in the UK this year with a 12-month programme of promotional activities. For UK staff of the leading international stationery brand a formal dinner took GMC CELEBRATES 10 YEARS place in April to mark 2016 sees the 10 year anniversary of GMC Distribution, whose the occasion against business has developed to cover worldwide distribution for more the magnificent than 10 client publishers, including Penguin Random House US and backdrop of Cardiff Barnes & Noble. Castle. Also planned Since setting up as a trade distributor, GMC’s business has will be 50-themed increased to include clients publishing into ever more varied genres monthly activities run from its beginnings in woodworking and craft. A recent rebrand and in association with the a returned focus to the company’s roots in non-traditional markets charity Groundwork Wales. has seen further success, and is fitting that GMC has become the A dedicated social media campaign celebrating the anniversary is exclusive book supplier to Hobbycraft, the largest art and craft retailer also underway along with specific product promotions for customers. in the UK. The past 10 years have seen exponential growth for GMC, The key competition running throughout the year is a monthly prize expounded by a specialist in-house sales team, a list of exciting draw featured on selected blistercards of Staetdler products. The non-book products and ever-closer links with trade and specialist promotional packs contain details of the 50th anniversary competition accounts. GMC looks forward to increased success in all areas of the including the web address, www.staedtler50.co.uk, where consumers business, and particularly the gift trade, where new lines of stationery can register for the prize draw and win one of five £50 stationery and a selection of wooden kits are already well received. bundles awarded every month. For more information visit www.thegmcgroup.com. For more information visit www.staedtler.co.uk. BUMPER SPRING FOR ICHF EVENTS “We’re delighted that the Staedtler name has become With two new Cake synonymous with quality and innovation in writing, drawing International shows at and colouring instruments and we look forward to continuing Alexandra Palace, London this tradition. One of our proudest claims is that a whole and the NEC, Birmingham, generation has learnt to write using a Staedtler Noris school this has been ICHF Event’s pencil with merely the sight of this iconic black and yellow busiest spring season yet. striped pencil enough to transport people straight back to ICHF Events has had a their school days,” says Managing Director, Duncan Savage. hugely successful start to its annual calendar of craft events with nearly 100,000 visitors flocking to the spring shows which kicked off in January with Stitching, Sewing and Hobbycrafts at Eventcity in Manchester. NEEDCRAFT NEEDS YOU Capturing the imagination of visitors and national and international Needcraft is looking to take on a Customer Accounts Manager to media, a life-sized Superman and Batman cake, an edible wedding help the company grow the business. Working from the Waltham gown and an abundance of creative crafts and designs featured at Abbey head office, the job will entail tasks such as answering the shows and drew the crowds. Simon Burns, Managing Director, the telephone; communicating courteously with customers; ICHF Events said: “It’s been an incredibly positive start to the year providing advice to customers; placing orders; solving problems; and we’ve been amazed by the interest and attention the shows have keeping accurate records of correspondence with customers and created. We’ve seen thousands of craft and cake fans flocking to the measuring potential and general sales and marketing activities. events looking to discover the latest products and techniques from the This is an exciting opportunity to become part of the Needcraft hundreds of exhibitors.” team in a friendly, dynamic, and expanding manufacturing To find out more, visit www.cakeinternational.co.uk company. Those interested should apply in writing to or www.ichfevents.co.uk. [email protected].

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BURHOUSE REBRAND Burhouse Beads is getting ready for the next 10 years of business with a rebrand. With more than 45 years’ knowledge and experience of jewellery component and findings wholesale supply, Burhouse Beads has seen many changes in the market. The company logo has a refreshed logo and name, Burhouse Beads and Findings, which has been developed to better reflect the company’s activities. The new logo has been devised to be more digitally friendly and bring the company’s image up-to-date. The website has also undergone a redesign to reflect the new branding, and the company TOOLS FOR ARTISTS TO MARKET THEMSELVES has launched a new findings catalogue with the new styling earlier this Independent artists have been given the power to take control of year. Further product catalogues covering beads, cabochons, beading, their marketing and tap into a large database of art fans and buyers hardware supplies and finished jewellery will be launched later in thanks to a pioneering platform built by artists, for artists. Art2Arts the year. acts as an online gallery, giving artists all the tools they need to sell To see what the company has to offer visit the new website, their work online, without large commissions and without an uphill www.burhousebeads.com. battle to find gallery space, which is in decline. Built over more than a decade ago , Art2Arts provides a virtual ANTEX INVESTMENT IS TO BRING INNOVATIVE space for creatives to showcase their latest creations. The business CRAFTING SOLUTIONS TO THE INDUSTRY grew from humble beginnings as owner and artist Michelle Gibbs Antex Craft has announced used the internet to sell her own work. Soon she recognised that that BVI- based TSC Group other artists also needed a place in order to share, and ultimately Holdings has made a significant sell their work. investment representing a 75 per “Art2Arts bridges the gap between artist and customer, with an cent stake in the company. Since online art gallery that makes artwork accessible to everyone. Art its beginning more than 70 years that’s purchased, is personal to each collector, and Art2Arts ensures ago, Antex has been a brand of that every piece from every artist reaches those who will most choice for soldering irons, and appreciated it the most,” says Michelle Gibbs, director of Art2Arts. more recently crafting tools. To find out more visit www.art2arts.co.uk. The Antex name has long been synonymous with reliable quality and durability. TSC has followed the company – the most highly regarded British brand – closely for several years and this investment offers a strong growth and support to further build upon the Antex name. The companies announced their intent to increase research and development with the aim to accelerate new product solutions for its customers. A strategic relationship between the two companies will allow both to leverage their expertise in driving innovation, strengthening the Antex Craft route to market and increasing availability. Managing Director, Ian Lockhart says, “This is an important opportunity to build on our success and accelerate development allowing us to solidify our leadership position. We’re expecting some major developments in our product line especially with our START SEWING crafting tools. TSC’s investment underscores a positive change for Avec and the team at Love Productions have developed an exclusive Antex Craft.” Great British Sewing Bee starter sewing machine. Presented in a With this investment John Curzon, UK representative of TSC stylish gloss black finish, the machine boasts eight stitch modes and will sit on the Antex Board of Directors to help identify best buttonhole feature. The machine is ideal for those just starting to sew. practices in production, distribution, brand-building and product It’s been designed exclusively for retail partner, The Range and retails portfolio expansion. at £99.99. For more information, visit www.antex.co.uk. For more information visit the Avec website, www.avecuk.com.

8 craftfocus Size: W 19cm L 19cm D 9cm H 26cm Craft,

Interchangeable Work Tu bs &Play has never been so much FUN! Versatile, neat & eff icient for storing a mutitude of arts & craft materials. Made from High Quality durable plastic and comes with 4 detachable interchangeable tubs. www.decreethermo.com t: 0845 474 2888 e: [email protected] industry news

INTERNATIONAL AWARD FOR POLLYANNA Passionate about wildlife and equally passionate about accurately interpreting her subjects, wildlife artist Pollyanna Pickering has dedicated her life to conservation through art. Recently she has been received the Association of Animal Artists’ most prestigious award, the Inaugural Chairman’s Award that’s presented to an artist who are considered to have significantly raised the profile of wildlife art in the last 12 months. Her artwork is increasingly popular with papercrafters and stitchers, and she’s become the most published artist in the UK, with images selling in 80 countries worldwide, giving her a one-of- WHAT CROCHETERS REALLY WANT a-kind opportunity to raise the profile of wildlife art internationally. Practical Publishing has launched a new magazine called Crochet During the past year her artwork has reached a brand new Now to meet the demand of modern crocheters looking for pattern audience through her regular guest appearances on the Create inspiration, Along with the revival of ’70s style in fashion, the art of and Craft TV channel. More than 100 follow up shows featuring her crochet made a huge comeback in recent years. Once thought of as artwork and clips of her interviews were broadcast, and in spring an old-fashioned pastime, crochet has been given new life by fresh the channel sent a crew to her studio to film ‘A day in the life of designers, bloggers and yarn companies with ever-growing colour a wildlife artist’. Pollyanna said, “I feel so lucky to have won this palettes to get creative with the craft. Fun, fast and colourful, it’s no beautiful award for doing the work I love, and sharing wildlife art surprise more women are discovering the joy of crochet for themselves. with a wider audience.” Editor Hugh Metcalf explains: “The audience for crochet magazines To find out more, visit www.pollyannapickeringstudio.co.uk. has been growing, but what’s been missing is a magazine that focuses on what crocheters really want to make – gorgeous homewares, APPLES TO PEARS APPOINT NORTHERN IRELAND AGENT adorable toys, colourful accessories and projects for babies and Sheryl Gray has taken on the role of children! Crochet Now is all about providing value in the patterns sales agent with Apples to Pears. An it delivers.” experienced retail manager for the UK The magazine promises to deliver the best quality patterns in and Ireland, Sheryl has a creative and the magazine market, but also expert advice and designs from top sales background, and her knowledge designers from around the world with patterns from the likes of Kat and contacts within the gift industry Goldin and Jane Crowfoot. make her the perfect pairing for The magazine will also focus on how to read crochet patterns and introducing Apples to Pears’ to her detailed step-by-step guides with clear photography, everything is home market. designed with the reader’s needs in mind. This makes it the perfect “I’m blessed to be working with starting point for those new to crochet who’re just picking up a hook award-winning lines, original designs for the first time or those who need a refresher to help them become and tried and tested best-sellers. confident in the craft. There’s no end of exciting products Priced at £5.99, the title will also be exported to Australia and for me to bring to Northern Ireland stockists and even more under will be available worldwide via a digital app. To become a stockist, visit development.” www.crochetnow.co.uk. Interested stockists should email her at [email protected].

BAKE BOX Bake Box subscription is the ultimate foodie treat for fans of baking. The concept allows bakers to build up to a repertoire of new skills, as well as a collection of great baking equipment with their bi-monthly delivery. It’s perfect for those who fancy a challenge after watching the Great British Bake Off or more recently, Crème de la Crème. The latest box is called Springtime in Paris and includes a silicone mat for making heart-shaped macarons, pastry brush for perfect glazing, flower press moulds, three-piece cutter set for making calissons, cutter and embosser sets, black food pen and nine-hole silicone madeleine mould. Each box costs £14.99 plus p&p. Alongside the bespoke baking box, subscribers will receive complementary access to the Bake Club Live website, where you can check out masterclass videos and bonus recipes. For more information visit the-bake-box.com.

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GORILLA TAPE STICKS WITH TV Gorilla Tape goes from strength to strength with the next phase of its heavyweight TV advertising campaign, which restarted in April this year alongside Gorilla Glue. LEONIE IN CRAFTER’S COMPANION COLLABORATION Following the success of Leonie Pujol has unveiled her own product range with the previous campaigns, the help of Crafter’s Companion. The Hochanda craft presenter brand is sticking with TV as a has selected the leading papercraft firm as her manufacturing medium, with a run of 10, 20 partner for the product launches, starting with a new stencil and 30 second adverts during the year including channels such as Dave, Sky collection. The line of stencils will launch live on the Hochanda Sports and Discovery. Using the iconic Gorilla character once more, the adverts shopping channel, and will subsequently be available in UK will be under-pinned with digital activity, radio and press across national titles. retail stores, distributed through the company’s network of The ads can be seen across the UK and Republic of Ireland, demonstrating area managers, and hoping to trade soon after. Gorilla Tape’s all-weather proposition. Leonie is the latest in a long list of high-profile craft For more information visit: uk.gorillaglue.com. presenters to team-up with Crafter’s Companion to utilise the company’s manufacturing know-how. Following the initial launch, more products including stamps and dies will be “We first took Gorilla to the small screen in 2012 with a limited budget, added to the collection later in the year. which was a bold move but one that paid dividends for the brand. The For further information visit www.crafterscompanion.co.uk. objective of increasing brand penetration into major multiples has worked with the products now being stocked in B&Q, Wickes, Wilko “Having seen the work Crafter’s Companion has done and many more national retailers across the UK and Ireland, something with Debbie Shore and Sheena Douglas, the company that TV advertising has certainly helped us achieve. The brand has was the natural choice to help me develop my own craft returned to TV this year so we would encourage retailers to maintain range. I’m very excited to be working with them, and healthy stock levels in response to this,” hope the new products will be a hit with consumers and says Simon Damp, Managing Director of Gorilla Glue Europe. retailers,” Leonie Pujol said.

BEADS WITH BROAD APPEAL Creative Beadcraft has added all 10 of the tweedy colours to its 4mm and 6mm fire-polished bead ranges, including tweedy silver, gold and copper, blue and violet. Fire-polished beads are so versatile, and these colours will add an interesting element to your customers’ designs. The tweedy colours work beautifully with the popular pastel shades, whether in fire-polished beads or in other shapes such as pinch beads and the multi-hole beads such as CzechMates. They also look good in designs with other tweedy beads such as the chilli beads, thorns and Kheops par Puca beads. The pretty Czech pinch beads have also proved very popular as they have an unusual shape but are still versatile. The company has expanded its range to 60 shades including metallics, pastels, tweedy and picasso colours. These three-sided 5mm x 3mm pinch beads add an interesting shape and texture to beading but, like fire- polished beads and bicones, the Czech beads are great all-rounders and work very well with a variety of other beads. These beads have broad appeal for general stringing, beadweaving and have become a popular choice for Kumihimo and making beautiful beaded beads. Both bead lines are very competitively priced as the company buys them direct from the Czech factories. They’re available loose, on retail-ready strings and in hanging tubes. For more information visit www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk for details about the trade website.

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LAUNCH OF EAGERLY AWAITED AUTOMATIC DIE-CUTTING AND EMBOSSING MACHINE Crafter’s Companion has officially launched its new large-format automatic die-cutting and embossing machine. The Gemini hit the shelves in the UK, USA and Europe in April priced at £169.99, $229 and €199 respectively. Using a high-pressure technology system, the product has been designed to be light, quiet and fast, enabling it to work with intricate dies and folders, cutting heavyweight cardstock, vinyl, foil and fabric. The machine was previewed at a number of trade shows earlier this year, and billed by the award-winning company as its biggest-ever product innovation. Sara Davies, Crafter’s Companion’s sales director said: “Over the last decade, dies have really moved on in terms of their innovation and intricacy. So we felt it was time to develop and manufacture a die- cutting machine that works for the needs of the modern crafter and more sophisticated dies. With the Gemini, we’ve really taken things to the next level. It has state-of-the-art technology, extra power and functionality over any other cutting and embossing tool on the market, yet it’s been priced significantly cheaper than other comparable machines. The launch has taken slightly long than expected following the initial unveiling of the product but as they say, good things come to those who wait.” Offering an extra wide opening and oversized platforms, the Gemini provides edge-to-edge cutting of A4 and US letter size materials such as thick paper stock. This, plus the innovative pause and reverse functions on the machine along with the high-pressure system, make it ideal for all decorative and craft applications in scrapbooking, card making, paper and fabric embellishments and table décor. The company will be launching it with the help of its TV shopping partner Hochanda and retail trade partners. The news comes just weeks after Crafter’s Companion launched its new entry-level die-cutting and punch product, the Diamond Press. For further information visit www.crafterscompanion.co.uk.

GLUE DOTS LAUNCH TWO EXCITING NEW CONSUMER LINES NEW PARTNERSHIP Glue Dots new Pound Pack format is new to FOR SOLOCRAFTS UK resellers but has been trialed and tested in SoloCrafts is now the US where it out-sold targets by selling more partnered with Grafitec – a than a million units during its launch phase. Greek company making Dave Angus, European Key Account Manager, tapestry canvases using comments, “The aim is to appeal to both the traditional Serigraphy curious first-time buyers and budget-conscious printing technique. This customers by offering the same great high- technique uses layers of quality adhesive in a smaller quantity and at screen-printed colour to a lower cost. We know, through customer build up the picture, as research, that once consumers try Glue Dots, oppose to the digital all in they’ll trade up through other products in one printing techniques employed by a lot of major canvas the range so, we’re very excited to bring this producers these days. It gives a truer colour finish, and remarkably successful product to the UK there’s no smudging or transfer of the colour once it has marketplace.” Glue Dots Pound Packs have dried. The company has a great range of tapestry canvas been launched in the company’s two most designs and a small range of kits under their Eurocraft popular adhesive strengths removable and brand name, which is being expanded as we speak. permanent and contain 36 Glue Dots per pack Canvases are provided with thread requirements in DMC on perforated sheets. colours for tapestry wool, soft cotton, pearl cotton and The other release is Glue Dots Stitch Glue stranded cotton options. The kits come with soft cotton Squares, which feature a brand new adhesive threads inside. Stock will be held in the UK and available pattern with a super strength formula that for next day shipping services with our usual T’s and C’s. delivers more sticking power than traditional For more information visit www.soclo-crafts.com. tape runners. Stitch Glue Squares are available in the company’s best-selling hand-held dispenser format, which is the perfect delivery system for this exciting new adhesive that provides a secure, seamless and permanent bond. Highly versatile and ideal for a wide range of stationery, crafting and DIY projects, the squares are easy-to-use, mess-free and require no dry time. They are also non-toxic and acid free and can be used on a wide range of surfaces including paper, card, wood, plastic, metal and foam. Glue Dots is distributed in the UK by West Designs, www.westdesignproducts.co.uk.

craftfocus 15 XPERT ENVELOPES Suppliers of plain, printed or bespoke envelopes and postal packaging. We pride ourselves on our specialist knowledge and our commitment to customer care and excellent service. Please visit our new website www.xpertenvelopes.co.uk

e: [email protected] t: 01732 760 255 brand spanking new brand spanking new An exclusive round up of the newest product offerings

Shoot the breeze Spring Breeze Fairy is the latest embroidery from RIOLIS. This light nearly translucent novelty cross-stitch will definitely cheer you up. With blended colour strands, this design features half cross-stitch and full-stitch and is embellished with beads.

RIOLIS distributed by Solocrafts T: +44 (0)161 464 7313 E: [email protected] W: www.solocrafts.com

Colouring-over with encaustic art Encaustic Art may be rooted in a very old tradition, but there are new and modern ways to work with molten wax. Michael Bossom has developed the encaustic art range and has recently been playing with the idea of colouring-over – the next step up from colouring-in. Take any image and print out onto copy paper using an inkjet printer, then stick onto a more rigid card or board. Using a low heat stylus with a brush head or drawing tip, begin to colour over with paint – much like painting by numbers but without the numbers. All the colours, shapes and blends are already there to act as the perfect guide. Encaustic wax can be re-melted and blended to create any colour to make your photos into paintings.

Arts Encaustic T: +44 (0)1239 831 401 E: [email protected] Baby craft collection W: www.encaustic.com British company Buttonbag has launched a new collection of craft kits designed to create original handmade and personalised gifts to celebrate new additions to the family. Beautifully packaged in New wool felt colours ribbon-tied suitcases, the Buttonbag baby range make ideal presents National Nonwovens has just released new Woolfelt colours. The for baby showers, baby arrivals, christenings, naming ceremonies colours will all be available from May 1st and add to the 115 colours and new and expecting parents. already stocked by Hantex. ex. There are eight craft kits to choose from including knitted booties, The felt is available in 3m,3m, 6m and knitted hat, a traditional cross-stitch sampler, mini embroidery, 9.2m (full bolt) lengths andnd retails appliqué cushion, bunting, and hand and foot clay print kit. at between £11.50 and Beginner-friendly and containing everything you need to make, the £13.50 per metre. kits can be made by the giver and presented in the suitcase including extra ribbon and a gift tag, or presented as gift as a craft kit. Prices National Nonwovens is start from £20 rrp. distributed by Hantex

T: +44 (0)1754 820 800 Buttonbag E: [email protected] T: + 44 (0)20 8525 1640 W: www.hantex.co.uk E: [email protected] W: www.buttonbag.co.uk

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Bear essentials Heartfelt comes to the UK Peter Underhill has turned his Jones Crafts has become the UK bear doodles into a collection distributors for the Heartfelt brand in of simple cross-stitch designs, the UK. Heartfelt produces an exciting and Justin bear is the result new collection every month that of what Peter calls a wind- comprises of dies, cling stamps down doodle. There are four and a paper collection. The latest designs to choose from: Just release is called Under the Sea. The because, Just a hug, Just collection encourages papercrafters for you and Just to say. The to take a walk along the edge of the little bear makes lovely greetings card deep blue sea, feel the warm sand and the Justin kits are available on 14-count aida. Each comes with between your toes, breathe in the a blank white card, envelope and everything you need to create a salty air, and toy with the exotic card with an aperture of 9.6cm x 9.6 hibiscus flower behind your ear as cm. Packs of three of the same design you stoop to snatch a lustrous seashell that has been swept onto are priced at £8.95 and a mixed pack the beach with the incoming tide. Sounds blissful. of one of each of the four designs costs £11.95. Heartfelt distributed by Jones Crafts T: +44 (0)115 9738 708 Heritage Crafts E: [email protected] T: +44 (0)1889 575 256 W: www.jonesnottm.co.uk E: [email protected] W: www.hcrafts.com

Love a lamp Needcraft has another beautiful lamp to add to its already extensive collection. The new kit allows crafters to make a freestanding statement piece floor lamp or as a table lamp. MetalMetal embossingembossing kikitt The lamps can be covered in This large and well-thought-outll thought out kitkit is designed a fabric or wallpaper of the to give any keen crafter or artistic beginner a chance tto mmakeake maker’s choice to create a truly six lovely embossing projects using three different metals. With handmade light. Needcraft also 20 generous pieces of each metal including aluminium, copper stock all electrics that may be and pewter, the kit contains enough to complete six embossing required to finish the product. or repoussé projects as well as practise the techniques. Projects The lamp kits are available include a keyring, two large fridge magnets and two brooches. Also as incredible value, easy-to- included within the kit is magnets, brooch backs, aluminium discs retail trade packs, and also as and rectangles, keyring, wooden box, paint, soft and hard surfaces, manufacturing packs for those paper stumps, sandpaper, brush, paint, tracing paper, varnish and wishing to make the lamps and embossing tools, full colour instructions and two sheets of design sell them on. elements. Recommended retail price is £19.99.

Needcraft Peak Dale Products T: +44 (0)1992 700 311 T: + 44 (0129 878 447 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.needcraft.co.uk W: www.peakdaleproducts.co.uk

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Sewing with Crafter’s Play with paper Companion In Paper Home from Pavilion, Esther Thorpe imparts a thoroughly Crafter’s Companion has modern take on the ancient art of origami. With a distinctly announced that Debbie Shore graphic aesthetic, she guides the reader through 15 stunning products are now available to origami projects to make for the home, combining papers of trade. Whether you’re looking for different colours and patterns, readers can create wonderful home project and pattern CDs, kits, fabric decorations, with a minimum amount of tools. dies, templates, patterns, fabrics Projects include a paper crane mobile that’s perfect for or general sewing accessories, the decorating a child’s room and a bouquet of paper daises, roses Debbie Shore range has it all. and lilies to brighten up any mantelpiece. The star garland is ideal The range will appeal to those that want to take their hobby to for wedding decorations and the party diamonds will add a festive the next level. Her Metal Dies are 1.5mm thick and are perfectly touch whatever the season. With designed for cutting through multiple layers of fabric, felt and leather. step-by-step instructions and The appliqué dies will open up endless possibilities and are a great photography for every crucial gadget for those who love quilting, sewing and getting creative with fold, this book is a must for both fabrics. Designs include this fun set to make a cute little owl, as well beginner and experienced paper as a quaint and cosy cottage that’s perfect for adding decoration to crafters, and is priced at £16.99. all kinds of different projects, from special handmade gifts to items for around the home. RRP starts from £17.99. Pavilion & Batsford T: +44 (0)20 7462 1519 Debbie Shore products are distributed by Crafter’s Companion E: [email protected] T: +44 (0)1388 660 930 W: www.pavilioncraft.co.uk E: [email protected] W: www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk Double trouble These new two-hole DiamonDuo Fun with distressing beads are creating a lot of interest You Can Folk It has recently created a fabulous new resource for its and have been flying out of the customers. The Series 2 range not only teaches you how to paint door. The diamond shape means eight new designs, but also provides instructions and resources that the beads are very easy to use you need to learn how to transfer images onto your project. Image but can also be incorporated into transfer has been popular for a while and the A5 design book more complex designs to bring contains a range of a new dimension and facetted designs for anyone shimmer to bead designs. wanting to add more The beads measure 5mm x 8mm detail to hand-painted x 3.5mm and have a lovely facetted top. The parallel holes, which are items and up-cycling 4mm apart, are ideal for beadweaving and multiple thread passes projects from vintage while the versatile diamond shape works well with other two-hole style images to modern beads and seed beads. The shape means they nestle together to quotes. Using the create textured mosaic patterns. Creative Beadcraft stock more than DecoArt Matte medium 50 gorgeous Czech colours including pastels. They are available included in the Series loose, in hanging tubes and in starter selections. See the company 2 starter kit, crafters website for free project downloads and can add these images an image gallery to inspire beaders. to furniture, gift boxes, birthday cards and more. Creative Beadcraft T: + 44 (0)1494 786 924 Folk It E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk W: www.folkit.co

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A host of new colours for correspondence sets ExaClair has expanded its Clairefontaine Pollen range with 19 new colours, providing the card-maker with a variety of colourful and intriguing options for creating memorable, personal and stylish letters, invitations and greetings. The new colours have been specifically designed for the Grain de Pollen range, made from soft-touch, vellum-textured paper and Longstitch inspirationiration available in sheets, cards and envelopes. The slightly felted paper is The new longstitch kits from RIOLISOLIS areare the perfect base for writing, prints, photos and embossing, but also innovative designs on 10 count Zweigart aida, provides an excellent flatness compatible with inkjet and with the picture printed in full colour, making them laser printers. very easy to follow. There are three pretty scenes in the range so far; The 19 new colours a princess castle, lavender and sunflower fields, and we think the provide users with an array of bold, colourful designs would brighten up any room. The kits contain modern and stylish options the RIOLIS wool/acrylic threads – wound onto a bobbin card, this in pastels, warm and exotic type of thread gives a brighter coloured finish than stranded cottons. hues, elegant neutrals and There is also a sewing needle and full stitching instructions inside. eye-catching bright shades. The finished kits are 12cm x 12cm, and they retail for £12.99 each. ExaClair RIOLIS distributed by Solocrafts T: +44 (0)1553 696 600 T: +44 (0)161 464 7313 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.exaclair.co.uk W: www.solocrafts.com

Sporty découpage Better fusing Craft Creations has a series of Invented by longarm quilter, sporty new découpage designs, Jeanne Harwood, EQS is which are perfect for making proud to present the Heat cards for sport lovers. All sheets Press Batting Tape. This include a range of extra panels, product is available in two banners and badges, all widths either 1½ in or ¾ in printed on top quality paper and both come on a and precision die-cut, making 15-yard roll, designed it easy to create great looking to fuse wadding and cards every time. fabrics together. These step-by-step The tape allows the designs are precision edges of wadding to be fused together with a soft fuse that stretches. die-cut, ready to press from the Simply, lay the two blocks side by side, place the tape over the join sheet and layer up using sticky and run the iron gently across. The patented adhesive will secure fixer pads or silicone glue. On both sides without adding bulk and without gumming up the needle. many of the sheets, there are On top of that, the fine construction means that when quilted, the extra elements, which can be join will blend into nothing. used to embellish the designs.

EQS distributes Heat Press Batting Tape Craft Creations exclusively for UK & Ireland T: + 44 (1992 781 900 T: +44 (0)116 271 0033 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.craftcreations.co.uk W: www.eqsuk.com

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

Something old, The style of Art Deco something new Art Deco remains a popular A real treat for cross- theme with crafters. Celebrate stitchers and embroiderers the elegance of the Art Deco is DMC’s newly re-launched era with Hunkydory's Deco Vintage Collection Shimmer luxury card collection. of sewing boxes and The fabulous illustrations accessories. The collection from the award-winning Claire has been revamped with Coxon, have been combined wonderful vintage-style with a shimmering silk finish to create a stunning cardmakingd k range. floral fabric-covered. The There are eight foiled and die-cut topper sheets, each with four-drawer thread box coordinating A4 printed and foiled cardstock, as well as three contains all 465 colours fabulous set piece projects to transport yourself back to one of the in DMC’s mouliné range greatest times in total style. There’s a splendid writing set project – the world’s leading six-stranded cotton. It’s the perfect gift for that would make the perfect gift. The Deco Shimmer collection committed crafters or Christmas, a big birthday, anniversary or a retails at £24.99 for the complete collection, or if crafters prefer they really thoughtful retirement gift, or perhaps just a little reward from can choose elements from £2.99. a needlewoman to herself. The Vintage Collection includes co- ordinating fabric-covered sewing boxes, thread cards and sewing Hunkydory Crafts accessories, all designed to help stitchers stay organised and keep T: +44 (0)1772 272 575 their stitching close-to-hand in attractive storage they’ll love to have E: [email protected] in their home. W: trade.hunkydorycrafts.co.uk

DMC Creative T: +44 (0)116 275 4000 E: [email protected] W: www.dmccreative.co.uk

Xpert Envelopes launches new website Divided in to four sections - envelopes, packaging, bespoke and print - with product types, colours and sizes listed, the new website for Expert Envelopes is easy to navigate. The range of envelopes includes standard white envelopes, colour including metallic Woodware new stamp release and pearlescent varieties, through to re-cycled and envelopes Woodware has a new outstanding range of stamp designs all set to for greetings cards. For postal packaging, choose from padded take crafters up to Christmas from designers Jane and Francoise. envelopes, postal tubes, book wraps, tear-resistantar re and polythene With years of designing experience between them, the ladies envelopes, and numerous sizes of cardboardboard boxes. continue to hit the mark with great designs across a wide range The company pride itself on its of sstyles. specialist knowledge, commitment to TheT trendy images that are to be seen across the craft sector come customer care, excellent service, and to the fore in the ranges, as well as Jane’s trademark floral designs every enquiry is handled individuallyy aand the humour that the Francoise collection is renowned for. The to ensure customers get the best hhigh-quality design teamed with the company’s values and services possible prices. that make them sure to be a winning selection for the second half of the year. The stamps come in two sizes and retail between £4 and £6. Xpert Envelopes T: +44 (0) 1732 760 255 Woodware Craft Collection E: [email protected] T: + 44 (0)1756 700 024 W: www.xpertenvelopes.co.uk E: [email protected] W: www.woodware.co.uk

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shows, news and events We update you on what’s happening with a round up of the shows

THE SURVEY SAYS DIARY DATES The survey among Stitching, Sewing and Hobbycrafts Home & Gift show visitors revealed that 17th - 20th July crafting is such a passion Venue: Harrogate International Centre, North Yokrshire for many that a third of W: www.homeandgift.co.uk respondents have turned down a night out to stay in Autumn Fair KreavaK and Art & Paper Xperience and craft. 11th - 12th September Almost half of crafters Venue: Expo Houten, Meidoornkade 24, 3992 Ae Houten, (46 per cent) have a whole The Netherlands room dedicated to their craft W: www.asws.nl projects while more than one in five (22.9 per cent) admit to regularly staying up past midnight to finish off their projects, a survey released by ICHF Events reveals. GO DUTCH Far from using holidays to take a break from their craft projects over half (61 This is the second year for Autumn Fair KreavaK, which per cent) take projects on holiday with them while one in five have booked runs alongside the Art & Paper Xperience. The two trade holiday from work specifically to work on a project. Crafters are making use of shows gives businesses the opportunity to focus on downtime in the day too with 38 per cent of respondents having taken projects creative textiles, paper and art under one roof. KreavaK into their workplace to work on in their lunch breaks. A crafty one in four (26 is a colourful event and will feature the latest products, per cent) of respondents admitted to encouraging their partner to go on a night including wool, haberdashery, quilt fabrics, buttons, out so they could stay in and craft. sewing machines and beads, while Art & Paper Xperience will cover the fields of art, paper, hobby, stamps, painting “These results show just what a dedicated bunch our show and stationery. Together the two Dutch fairs aim to bring a whole range of products for retailers in Benelux. visitors are. We knew that our customers were passionate For more information visit the organiser’s website about crafting but these results show just what a popular www.asws.nl and fulfilling hobby it can be. There are so many benefits to crafting and it’s clear to see that it continues to play a big part in people’s lives,” comments Simon Burns, ICHF Events joint managing director.

Crafting for the love of it – the majority of those surveyed (71 per cent) are crafting for the love of it while almost a third (28 per cent) are turning their hobby into a business venture by selling their creations online or at craft fairs. Friends and families of crafters are regularly treated to handmade bespoke gifts and cards according to the survey with more than one in three (35 per cent) making all of their friends and family’s birthday cards and over one in ten (16 per cent) creating birthday gifts for at least half of their friends and families. The Stitching, Sewing & Hobbycrafts Show runs in several venues across the UK this Autumn including Manchester, Birmingham, London, Glasgow and Exeter featuring a host of inspiring exhibitors and hundreds of stands offering visitors all the latest supplies. For more information visit www.ichfevents.co.uk.

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JOIN CHA MEGA SHOW IN PHOENIX, ARIZONA AND PLAN FOR SUCCESS The 76th Annual Craft and Hobby Association Mega Conference & Trade show is moving to Phoenix, Arizona next year and will run from the 19th - 23rd January 2017. Education starts on day one, and the trade show floor opens from the 21st – 23rd January. 2017 will be a transformative year for the show as CHA broadens its reach, develops its programs, and expands the product content and categories represented on the trade show floor. Sewing, soft crafts, fabrics, patchwork and quilting will be just a few of the new category additions that CHA is making to the already diverse range of creative art and craft products that are showcased. The statement that CHA is just a paper show will definitely not be valid, CHA will be a re-invigorated trade show platform that anyone who hasn’t visited in the last few years, or exhibited at for while will want to be part of. Exciting new features, inventive programmes, exhibitors from across the globe and expanded country specific exhibitor pavilions from Australia and Holland and the opportunity to network with industry peers, business partners and key influencers are just some of the things that you will be able to experience when you exhibit or attend. Buyers can source new products, new business partnerships, distribution deals and agreements will be sealed, industry leaders will teach new programmes, techniques and initiatives and entrepreneurs will showcase their industry changing ideas in the New Innovations Centre, and could well hold that all important winning sales line for 2017. With a new and improved show floor to look forward to, the CHA MEGA show aims to bring together the creative community to network, showcase, teach, inspire and instil confidence in the creative industries business for the year ahead. For more information contact: Andrew Morton, email [email protected] or visit the websitewww.craftandhobby.org.

BIG EVENTS ON THE INDUSTRY CALENDAR FOR CHA-UK Calling all retailers, manufacturers, publishers and designers: you’re invited to the UK’s biggest craft industry conference this summer. Whether your business is stamping, sewing, beading, knitting or cake, the CHA-UK’s summer event isn’t to be missed. Gain knowledge and contacts that will help you grow your business as you connect, engage and get inspired! Craft Focus magazine is sponsoring the event. and will be there to help you with any questions you have on what’s happening within the industry. Creative Exchanges and The One Big Show are the CHA-UK’s “No matter what your experience or history is in biggest events, and all under one big roof this year at the Ricoh Arena the craft sector, you can always learn how to improve in Coventry. your systems, your delivery and your planning. Creative Exchanges is the business event for creative professionals Attend any of the CHA UK events, and find out for and offers designers, educators and bloggers (DEBS) the opportunity yourself the value they represent to the future of your to learn with educational seminars and hands-on workshops. There’s personal and professional growth. I guarantee by lots of networking opportunities to build new contacts and connect with industry leaders and other designers, and takes place between the end of any event, you’ll start the following week 25th and 26th June. buzzing with inspired ideas and plans. You really One Big Show International conference is for all CHA member can’t afford to miss the next one,” groups and in partnership with Immediate Media. Members will be comments Leandra Franich from PaperArtsy. taken through the UK research with key insights into what that means for trends in your business. There’s ample opportunity to network with major buyers, suppliers and industry leaders, and gain valuable CHA-UK team business advice through targeted seminars and the uplifting keynote T: +44 (0)1206 364 977 addresses. The events follow on from Creative Exchanges. Member E: [email protected] tickets begin at £65 + VAT per person/day for CHA-UK members. W: www.cha-uk.co.uk/cha-uk-one-big-show

craftfocus 29 shows, news and events

CONSUMER SHOW NEWS THE GREAT BRITISH CRAFT FESTIVAL 4th - 5th June 2016 Bolton Arena, Greater Manchester and 1st - 2nd October 2016 Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire

Ready, Steady, Craft The Great British Craft Festival is back for the fifth year. There were rumours that these shows wouldn’t go ahead this year but Hunkydory Crafts is proud to present details of its multi-award winning weekend craft shows. The exhibition halls at each Great British Craft Festival venue will be packed with a wide range of craft exhibitors for whatever your crafty craving is, from papercraft and upcycling to knitting and sewing, and everything in between. The make and take sessions will be back with more than 1,300 free crafty sessions, where you can be guided by a crafting celebrity to make a special project to take away. The show will be hosting a series of VIP workshops the day before each show for those keen crafters who want to spend a full day crafting with the celebrity experts. Each festival offers every attendee a free Hunkydory papercraft kit, worth £4.99, courtesy of Club Hunkydory, and also the chance to win the £3,000 giveaway. For more information about The Great British Craft Festival, and to purchase tickets, visit www.greatbritishcraft.co.uk.

ARTS IN ACTION Photo by Nathan Gaydhani 14th - 17th July Waterperry Gardens W: www.artinaction.org.uk

A great day out for all the family The event began in 1977, when 51 artists and musicians took part in the first Art in Action and 14,000 visitors arrived. Today, 40 years on, Art in Action welcomes approximately 25,000 people over four days. Visitors come to learn, buy and enjoy the exhibitions, classes and performances and every day up to 600 volunteers staff the show. Every July up to 400 artists, crafters, and musicians gather together in Waterperry Gardens to demonstrate skills and show Printmaking with Sue Brown Nathan Ford project, photo their work. Visitors can watch the potter pot, by Alan Marshall the painter paint and the sculptor sculpt. You can ask the masters of the arts of jew- ellery, textiles, woodwork and glassblowing about the secrets of their craft. In the Practi- cal Classes section, you’ll be able to have a go at the art or craft of your choice with the guidance of an expert teacher. The Market has more than 100 designer-makers to browse and buy special gifts. And when you need a break, there’s a wonderful selection of food and drink available and the beauty of the famous gardens is there to soak up.

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& Under one roof! June 25th - 27th Ricoh Arena, Coventry

3 days of educational seminars, including social media, IP law, product development, successful retailing and more! Hands on product training, the latest industry research & networking opportunities - can you aff ord to miss it? book now at www.cha-uk.co.uk!

Join Today! Tel: 01206 364977 www.cha-uk.co.uk shows, news and events

CONSUMER CALENDAR Want to get your products to more customers? We list the best UK-based consumer craft shows in the forthcoming months: Arts in Action, (www.artinaction.org.uk): 14th - 17th July: Waterperry, Oxfordshire

Craft in Focus (www.craftinfocus.com): 24th - 26th Jun: Craft and Design Experience, Henley 26th - 29th Aug: RHS Garden, Hyde Halle, Essex

Festival of Thrift, (www.festivalofthrift.co.uk): CHILTERNS CRAFT & DESIGN SHOW 17th - 18th Sept: Kirkleatham, Redcar 26th - 29th August 2016 Stonor Park, Henley-on-Thames The Contemporary Craft Festival, W: www.ichfevents.co.uk (craftsatboveytracey.co.uk): 10th - 12th Jun: The Contemporary Craft Festival, Best of British crafting Bovey Tracey The Chilterns Craft & Design Show will be making a return to Stonor Park, Henley-on-Thames this August, and will be a chance to discover beautifully The Handmade Fair (www.thehandmadefair.com): crafted British products. The show has become one of the most prestigious 16th - 18th Sept: The Green, Hampton Court Palace craft shows in the country and has something for all the family with 250 stands. This year’s show features a host of exquisite British crafts. It’s a chance to Grosvenor Shows, patchwork & quilting discover beautiful pieces for the home including furniture and glassware along (www.grosvenorshows.co.uk): with jewellery, luxury beauty products and leather goods. As well as browsing 17th -19th Jun: National Quilts Championships, Sandown the crafts marquees, visitors can take part in demonstrations, workshops and 2nd - 4th Sept: Great Northern Quilt Show and Needlecraft relax in the beautiful grounds of the house and gardens at Stonor Park. Show, Harrogate Falling on the August bank holiday, it’s the perfect family day out with opportunities to get involved in the hands-on workshops on offer throughout ICHF shows (www.ichfevents.co.uk): the weekend, including fabric and ceramic workshops with Trandcraft, 1st - 3rd Jul: Stitching, Sewing & Hobbycrafts, NEC papermaking activities with Timberland Art & Design and children’s jewellery 26th - 29th Aug: Stonor Park, Henley-on-Thames making workshops with Kiddiebeads. 8th - 10th Sept: Stitching, Sewing & Hobbycrafts, Manchester It’s not only crafters that will get caught up in this summer show, food-lovers 9th - 11th Sept: Penshurst Place, Tonbridge can indulge at the specialist food and drink marquees including farmhouse cheeses, and an assortment of fine wines and spirits along with luxury Sincerely Yours, papercraft shows chocolates and fudge to taste and buy. For a handmade taste of Britain, the (www.sincerely-yours-shows.info): Café Eatons bar will be offering fresh food alongside Italian coffees, a delicious 5th Jun: Edinburgh selection of handmade cakes, afternoon tea, and full bar offering Champagne, 12th Jun: Portsmouth Prosecco, Pimm’s as well as wine and cold beers. 27th - 28th Aug: Leigh New for Chilterns will be ‘Have a go cookery’ masterclasses throughout the 3rd Sept: Harrogate day. These masterclasses will give visitors the opportunity to ask questions about diet and nutrition. Classes include learning how to make scrumptious The Great British Craft Festival salads, decadent desserts and easy snacks, along with educational tips and (www.greatbritishcraft.co.uk): tricks of the trade to eat healthy. 4th - 5th Jun: Bolton Arena, Greater Manchester Another not to be missed feature of this year’s show is the stunning show 1st - 2nd Oct: Stoneleigh Park, Midlands garden, presented by family-run business Wellington Stone. Wellington Stone design and produce high quality handmade stone garden ornaments, Upper Street Events (www.upperstreetevents.co.uk): sculptures and fun planters in modern, quirky designs. 11th - 14th Aug: Festival of Quilts, NEC For more information and to book tickets, visit www.ichfevents.co.uk.

craftfocus 33 stationery matters The sixth London Stationery Show closed its doors after recording its highest ever visitor numbers and achieving several other record breaking firsts

Stationery show breaks all records The exhibition had its highest number of visitors to date, up 27 per cent up on 2015; the highest number of stands at 155, up 15 per cent up on 2015; its highest number of Stationery Award entries, up more than 100 on 2015 at 350 new product entries. It welcomed visitors from 43 countries.

• Notebooks & Journals - Nuuna Pearl Pink Notebook from Stone Marketing • Judges’ Award - Christmas Planner created by Emma Fletcher of Mums Office Henri Davis, independent retail advisor and vice-president of The Giftware Association, who chaired the judging panel commented: “The judges were thrilled by the strength and diversity of the products entered this year. With four new judges on the panel, there were comments about how useful it was to see focused selections of new products to evaluate and compare. They were all “Just about everyone who’s making notes of products they wanted to anyone in the stationery market follow up on.” seemed to be at this year’s show! We hosted Nuco’s successful Rebecca Saunders, Guinness World Record attempt notonthehighstreet for the World’s Largest Notebook. Stone Marketing Our congratulations go to • Licensing - Mibo Jungle Invites from GMC managing director Keith Matthews • Gift Packaging (a new category for this year) – Snowman mailing bags from The Original and his team, who are also a Funky Mailing Bag Company sponsor for National Stationery • Diaries & Organisers - Christmas Planner Week this year,” from Mums Office says exhibitor director, Chris Leonard-Morgan. • Everyday Writing - Penco Brass Pencil from Notable Designs 2016 Stationery Award • Writing Instruments over £25 - Blackwing winners announced Pencils from Notable Designs A panel of six leading industry buyers • Filing - Candy Storage Range from reviewed more than 350 new products at the Go Stationery London Stationery Show and announced the • Social Stationery - Pineapple Boxed winners at the event. Notecards from Portico Designs • Desk Accessories (a new category this The category winners are as follows: year) - Kohinoor Desk Sharpener from Lime • Novelty - MT Masking Tape from Stationery & Art

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World Stationery Day be evident in the market for this Christmas 86 per cent of employers said that they’d To celebrate World Stationery Day on and in the spring and summer of 2017. be more likely to take on a candidate if they Wednesday, 27th April, the show invited received a handwritten application letter Rebecca Saunders, head of development at Children believe handwriting has a future alongside a CV. leading online retailer, notonthehighstreet. The future of nice and neat written National Stationery Week produced the com, and Phil Pond of trend forecasters documents appears to be in safe hands, after statistics through a nationwide YouGov Scarlet Opus to speak. Rebecca’s talk, entitled 91 per cent of the UK’s children declared the survey, which questioned more than ‘Stationery – anything but Stationary’ covered skill as either important or very important. 500 children about the importance of the current trends on styles and the new ways Statistics from National Stationery Week handwriting. in which notonthehighstreet.com customers revealed that the vast majority of eight to 15 Seven-days of pen and paper-based are using stationery. While trend analyst Phil year-olds deemed the ability to write by hand festivities began on Monday 25th April to Pond added to this by identifying a series of as a pre-requisite in life. celebrate the written word and all global design and consumer trends that will Their instincts appear to be correct, after things stationery. C PRODUCT PROFILES Here are a few of our favouritee things to look out for:for:

Glue Dots International has a neat desktop dispenser, which is lightweight, easy-to-use and can be refilled with Glue Dots adhesive rolls. The dispenser doubles as a handy storage container, and can be kept on a workspace as it features rubber, non-skid feet and keeps the adhesive roll wound tightly, preventing it from unravelling. For more information visit A new British brand Toad Diaries has www.gluedotseurope.com. created a range of fully customisable diaries that aim to revolutionise the way we view diaries, journals and notebooks. The company offers complete freedom to choose a preferred start and end We love the creative month as well as day, and this flexibility stickers from Wall Candy means you can start a diary whatever Arts. The company the time of year. has an extensive range The product range comes in popular of handy stickers to calendar formats but the best thing decorate the home (and is being able to select your diary size, craft room) including binding style as well as cover design the chalk frame, which alternatives plus the ultimate finishing is a great way to bring touch – customise the front and writing to the wall. back covers. Simply peel, stick, and The business has built an extensive write on it and when trade service, providing bespoke diaries you’re done – just peel and journals in bulk to all types of off without a trace. businesses and organisations. Prices Wall Candy Arts is start from £11 for an A5 customised now distributed by the diary and £8.45 for a customised Butterick Company. The notebook. the company can be To view the full range visit the website: contacted on www.toaddiaries.co.uk. +44 (0)239 249 2769.

craftfocus 35 stationery matters

Just like Washi tape but in a handy pen, the Decoration Tape Decorush pen lays down a trail of cute designs to enhance Maped Helix has a colourful collection of fine handmade creations. There are around 18 nib liners called Graph’Peps. The range comes sweet designs and refill tapes to choose in 20 bright colours to add a splash to any from including hearts, pandas, ladybirds creative project. What we like about these and chameleons. Another great product is pens is that they’ve a triangular shape that’s the Decoration Roller. We fell in love with easy and comfortable to grip. The 0.4mm fine the cute floral design. These also come nib gives you greater accuracy for the finer with refillable cartridges. Use both for your details, and the pens are available singly, in paper crafting including embellishing greetings cards, diaries creating personalise giftwrap multipacks and duos. and partyware by sliding to apply the patterns. For more information visit the website For more information visit www.plus-europe.com. www.mapedhelix.co.uk.

What a great product for crafters to The Posca pen is like a spray paint in a pen, and works across a wide selection of materials so clean up! Amodex Ink & Stain Remover crafters can customise just about anything they like. To use the non-toxic, water-based pen, you removes all sorts of inks, dye and other simply shake the marker vigorously and press the tip down to start the paint flowing. The ball troublesome stains including whiteboard inside mixes the paint giving an even consistency. markers, ballpoint, felt tip, stamp pad, Draw and paint on paper, cardboard, terracotta, wood, metal, textile, porcelain, plastic and gel and fountain pen. The stain remover’s glass and after bake in a regular oven for 45 minutes. The pens come in a variety of tips from cream soap formula is non-toxic and safe brush, extra-fine, fine, medium, broad and extra broad-tips. Posca is a Uniball Mitsubishi brand to use on fabric types like silk and wool, and for more information visit www.uniball.co.uk. as well as upholstery, carpeting, and skin. Another great product It also has an unlimited shelf life. that crafters will love is In the US, the company is the branded the wooden ‘origami’ product on Martha Stewart’s Stain postcard-like packaged Removal chart for removal of Sharpie and kits from Finish company Crayola. The eco-friendly range comes Lovi. Designed by Anne in various sizes from a swipe on-the-go Paso, the kits make great portable pack to a hot box containing gifts and stocking them three specialty kits. won’t take up much To find out more visit the website valuable shelf space with www.amodexink.com. the special cardstand. Designs include Christmas DATE FOR YOUR DIARY baubles, angels, rabbits, London Stationery Show trees and birds. 25th - 26th April, 2017 For more information Business Design Centre, London visit www.lovi.fi. W: www.stationeryshow.co.uk

36 craftfocus

show review creative in cologne We report back from the textile trade fair in Cologne FACTS AND FIGURES This year around 14,800 trade visitors from 68 countries visited the trade fair h+h Cologne to do business, catch up with the latest trends and place orders with existing and new exhibitors. With a 70 per cent share of exhibitors as well as a 37 per cent share of trade visitors coming from outside Germany, the International Trade Fair for Creative Handicraft & Hobby Supplies impressively strengthened its role as one of the world’s most important trading platform for the textile industry in Europe. The supporting programme was an important pillar of h+h cologne’s success, and comprised trend fashion shows, workshops and special events, which offered this specialised trade a variety of creative ideas for point of sale. The My Lovely Livingroom PRODUCT FAVOURITES was a great meeting point for visitors and Here’s a few of our favourite things: Coloris from DMC Creative World combines four contrasting colours networking platform for designers, bloggers in each skein of six stranded cotton and creative minds. It also featured daily trend providing a complete colour change watches, Talk Sofa, exhibition and workshops, every five centimetres, resulting in a which attracted huge crowds of trade visitors. distinctively striped skein which can Zenbroidery from Design Works Craft offers give the most basic cross-stitch the fabric with a handmade, original design appearance of delicate needlework. stamped in black ink. The Zenbroidery artist This exciting product allows new cross- has the opportunity to bring personalised stitchers the chance to easily achieve an colour to the black and white print, choosing intricate counted cross-stitch effect. whichever floss and bead color pack they wish to use. There are no instructions, leaving the artist to choose what materials and stitch techniques they use. They can do as much or as little work as they desire and the piece will still be complete. The project is portable, and there’s no hoops, frames, or counting needed. Once completed Following on from last year when Prym the finished design can introduced a stylish range of sewing patterns be uploaded to social and instructional videos, the company now media platforms. offers new bag shapes such as a Beach Bag and a Vintage Bag. Each pack includes a DVD DATE FOR YOUR DIARY of the working steps, various pattern options h+h Cologne st nd as well as a shopping list. 31 March – 2 April, 2017 Cologne Exhibition Centre W: www.h+h-cologne.com C

craftfocus 39

haberdashery neat notions We review some of the latest haberdashery productsts to make light work of soft crafting

JERSEY RIBBING Ribbing is a special knit fabric with stretch and perfect for creating collars, cuffs,s, waistbands and welts when dressmaking. Hantex has a super range that comess on handy 10m rolls, which allows you to cut whatever size your customer needs.s. The recommended retail price is 99p per metre making it exceptional value.

Hantex T: +44 (0)1754 820 800 E: [email protected] W: www.hantex.co.uk

MAKE YOUR MARK With a revolutionary ceramic lead that’s strong, smooth to draw with,h andd stayst sharpsharp forfor longer,longer Sewline’sSewline’s mechanical fabric pencils have become an incredibly popular marking tool for sewers across the board. The colour is baked into the ceramic which means that you get a smooth action when drawing, there are no particles to get trapped in the fibres, and the colour remains constant throughout. The pencil is available in five colours; black, white, yellow, pink and green. Also thanks to its construction, the lead won’t break as easily as standard propelling pencils, and there’s no sharpening and messy wood shaving required. A simple click advances the 0.9pt lead ready to use.

EQS distributes Sewline Products exclusively for UK & Ireland T: +44 (0)116 271 0033 E: [email protected] W: www.eqsuk.com

BEAUTIFUL WOODEN BUTTONS Club Green has a wonderful selection of wooden buttons that come in a regular round shape measuring 40mm x 34mm button as well as a line of novelty shapes – butterfly, hearts and flower. The round buttons come in a pack of 12, and the specialty shapes in packs of nine making them perfect for your customers’ projects. Use them to sew or embellish soft crafts or use as an embellishment for papercrafts or gifts.

Club Green T: +44 (0)1483 281 313 E: [email protected] W: www.clubgreen.com

craftfocus 41 neat notions

MATCHING THREAD PACKS Crafter’s Companion is delighted to introduce the new Threaders range. As well as gorgeous fabrics, the collection contains a fabulous coordinating thread set comprising seven cotton thread reels, with approximately 150m on each. Prices start from just £5.99 and enough to keep stitchers busy throughout the year.

Crafter’s Companion T: +44(0)1388 660 930 E: trade@crafters companion.co.uk W: www.crafterscompanion MACHINE QUILTING THREADS trade.co.uk Purchased from Egypt, dyed in North Carolina, Georgia or Japan and then finished, wound and packaged in South Carolina, the YLI Machine 6-IN-1 CRAFT TOOL quilting threads are the highest quality. The quilting thread is a 40/3 Quick Snippers is an all-in-one craft scissors tool developed by ply, tex size 40, and made from high quality 100 per cent Egyptian Limiri. Six craft scissors are built into one compact carrying case for cotton and provides excellent strength and consistency. convenience, portability, and less clutter. The tool is ideal for quick and The thread is available in 25 solid colours and 48 variegated colours, easy crafting including scrapbooking, card making and paper crafting. and has been designed to work together to create an unlimited The candy-bar-size craft tool measures 5in x 1in x 1½in, with cutting variety of effects. patterns measuring 1¾in, and weighing 1lb. It fits comfortably in the palm of your hand and is for left- and EQS distributes YLI threads in the UK & Ireland right-handed users. Other features of this handy tool consist of an T: +44 (0)116 271 0033 ergonomic design, stainless steel blades, durable plastic casing, and E: [email protected] scissor designs including Victorian, scallop, corkscrew, zigzag, lightning W: www.eqsuk.com bolt, and straight edge. Creativity Meets Cutting Edge Convenience is the Quick Snippers’ motto and is a must-have gadget for all crafters. WONDERFUL WADDINGS Hantex has been Limiri appointed UK distributors T: +1 708 620 4241 for Legacy waddings and E: [email protected] interfacings. With an W: www.quicksnippers.com every increasing demand for specialist interfacings in the sewing market, the company will now be working with one of the best names in the sector. Products will start to arrive in the UK during the second half of the year.

Legacy is distributed by Hantex T: +44 (0)1754 820 800 E: [email protected] W: www.hantex.co.uk

42 craftfocus Wholesale Haberdashery Suppliers

Our huge range includes

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

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

/mcourtsltd TRADE-WIRES.CO.UK

Unit 3, Zone A Chelmsford Road Industrial Estate, Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 1HD Tel: 01371 238 013 haberdashery

DOUBLE UP RIBBON AND BUTTON DISCOUNTS Hantex has a great selection of ready-to-use knit/jersey tricot tapes Fantastic Ribbons has introduced a loyalty discount scheme to that are staple for edging quilts and other stitched projects. The all trade accounts from May where customers can earn lifetime tape is made up of 95 per cent cotton and 5 per cent lycra, and discounts of up to 25 per cent off trade list prices. The company has measures 20mm x 25mm. The tape is perfect for beginners to use also added a new soft shaded cottage check pink woven ribbon and the double-fold offers extra stability for protecting quilt edges. to complement its home spun and vintage ranges including this The tape retails at £1.91 per metre. summery 15mm Cottage check ribbon priced at £2.25 for a pack of 3.

Hantex Fantastic Ribbons T: +44 (0)1754 820 800 T: +44 (0)1392 366 762 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.hantex.co.uk W: www.fantasticribbonstrade.com

QUICK EMBELLISMENTS Simple and fun to use Clover’s yo-yo makers are the easy way to add those decorative touches to any creative project. The tool allows you to make evenly spaced stitches to create beautiful gathers. The maker is available in a variety of shapes and sizes from simple circles to shamrocks and flowers.

EQS distributes Clover Products across the UK & Ireland T: +44 (0)116 271 0033 E: [email protected] W: www.eqsuk.com

60 YEARS OF HABERDASHERY marketplace, the business Korbond Group, the UK’s number one branded supplier of is well-respected within haberdashery and clothes care accessories within the grocery the craft industry and has retailers, is celebrating 60 years of successful business trading. continued to grow rapidly,” The business started out in Australia in 1956 and was primarily comments Stuart Caller, established for industrial manufacturing by thermo plastic coatings General Manager. engineer Henry Korski. In the early ‘70s, Henry pursued a quest Today, Korbond Group is for innovation with growing demands to service the consumer still driven by the values and haberdashery markets. He took a bold decision to switch the focus commitments established from industrial production to the supply of consumer goods. The many years ago, which business quickly established itself across Australia and New Zealand has enabled the company and during the ’80s launched in the UK market too. to constantly push the For more than half a century, the Korbond Group has been the boundaries and enter owners of a number of successful brands with full control over the new markets. The business continues to be a commercial success product development process, and has become more diversified and this important milestone demonstrates the Korbond Group’s than ever. position in the marketplace, and the company intends to continue “Aside from providing great quality, affordable products for the building upon the excellent reputation it has earned over the years consumer, our business excels within the category management to come. field and we offer first class service to each and every client we For more information about the company’s products visit deal with. With sought-after diverse product offerings within the www.korbond.co.uk.

craftfocus 45 contemporary cotton We talk to Dani Phillips, Managing Director from The Craft Cotton Co about its exciting craft fabric ranges Tell us about the company roots, and how collection of pre-cut bundles. the trading name Craft Cotton Company Demand from crafters and quilters business came about? continued to grow and to give this area of The company was founded in 1948 by Tony the company it’s own identity, the company Levy, grandfather of the current owner Aarran created a new brand in 2011 and called it Levy. For many years, located in the garment The Craft Cotton Co, a trading name of the district of Manchester, the company was limited company Visage Textiles. best described as a general fabric merchant, buying and selling many different types The Craft Cotton Co has become of fabric, much of it to local and national synonymous with high quality fabrics for clothing manufacturers. modern day crafters and quilters. Tell us As clothing manufacturing moved abroad, a bit about the ranges, and why retailers the company began to concentrate on should stock them? speciality fabrics for dancewear and fashion We don’t have a formal mission statement but How important is providing contemporary and printed cottons for a variety of customers. if we did, it would be “to bring craft sewing designed fabrics to your portfolio? In 1999, the company incorporated as Visage and quilting to the many, rather than to the Having said that price and quality for some Textiles Ltd. few.” This we do through great designs, great are really important, we’d have to say design On a trip to the US around 14 years ago, quality fabrics and great prices. is more important. We continue to work Aarran saw his first fat quarter bundle. Always The company never stops asking really hard on this, along with the excellent on the lookout for exciting new concepts for feedback from customers and end work done by our own designers, we’re and designs, he decided to produce its first consumers. What designs do you like? What constantly looking to acquire beautiful and do you like about them? What do you do commercial designs. with them? We keep an eye on fashion and home décor We recognised that fabrics for quilting, trends. In this consumer age, we need to keep crafting and dress-making were converging. ranges fresh and reflecting the trends of the Working with Heather Jacks, former winner of time. It’s our task to excite customers and to the BBCs The Great British Sewing Bee, we’ve bring out their creative spirit. developed and produced a lovely range We view with great interest that a number called Ombré Trends – little ditsy prints, of our fellow competitors are investing in their perfect for everyday use, in a highly own designs too so ultimately the consumer fashionable colour palette. will be the winner. We felt that new sewers and crafters wanted to buy quilting-quality fabrics and How has the fabric market changed over the designs and last year, we launched three last few years? quilt collections. To make the ranges really Participation in crafting in general, and the accessible, we,ve not only produced fabric soft craft market segment in particular, grew on bolts. We also produced pre-cuts and, during the recession. Rather than going together with Jennie Rayment, developed out for a meal or going to the pub, many a range of kits with everything you need to consumers prefered to stay at home and look make a quilt project including the needle for hobbies to occupy their time. and thread. Popular personalities such as Kirstie The great news is that we have three more Allsopp and TV shows like BBC’s The Great collections in the pipeline; one with a floral British Sewing Bee has shown that sewing sketches theme that launches in August. We and upcycling can be useful and really fun, will keep the other themes under wraps for encouraging many more to take up the the time being. needle and thread. DIY isn’t just about saving

46 craftfocus company profile

money, it’s about creating something you can be proud of. The therapeutic benefits of crafting are also widely recognised. This increase in the number of new crafters has driven the need for lots of great designs at different price points. Manufacturers have responded by producing better quality cottons and prints. The gap in fabric quality and asthetics between high end US quilting fabrics and chain store products is closing all the time. New crafters are becoming more aware of brands and designer names.

Are there any other collaborations or quilting wadding called Heritage. We,re really associations on the horizon for the company pleased with the reaction to both the quality that we should look out for? and price of the product. Crafters and quilters We’re delighted to work with the team at now have a terrific entry level product as an Avec UK and are very excited to have been option to the more expensive brands. If you,re appointed the exclusive distributor for Peter investing time, love and money into a quilt, Rabbit fabrics for craft and quilting as it is you need great wadding to finish off your the 150th year anniversary of Beatrix Potter,s project and now you can choose Heritage first book. The first ranges are in production, from The Craft Cotton Co. and we hope to see them towards the end of summer. Through our collaboration with What products are proofing best-sellers Avec, we,re also designing a Winnie The Pooh for stitchers? collection. It’s a lot of fun to work with great What is more valuable than gold at the partners and great designs. moment? The answer is Bosal In-R Form, a You’ve recently started distributing for To paraphrase a 1937 song, ‘You say foam stabiliser that comes in three variants Henry Glass Fabrics. Tell us what we can batting, I say wadding.’ Our very successful – sew-in, single or double-sided fusible. It,s expect to see? association with Bosal Foam & Fiber from the loved by crafters as well as giving a project To underline our commitment to bringing US has led to the launch of our own range of form, it collapses and springs back to shape exclusive ranges to quilt store customers, and is washable. It,s truly wonderful. we’re excited to show collections by Henry Glass & Company who’ve been a leader in Where can retailers get to see the Craft developing innovative quilt lines for the home Cotton Co product range? sewer for more than 100 years. The company Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, our launches new lines each season designed showroom and for all the traditionalists out by an in-house art department and work there, we,ve a website too. C exclusively with famous licensed designers such as Kim Diehl. The fabrics are mostly produced in Korea, which is synonymous for quality of printing and cotton. The themes cover many areas that include The Craft Cotton Co seasonal Christmas collections, slices of T: +44 (0)161 832 9431 Americana, delightful novelty designs and the E: [email protected] core basics that quilters love. W: www.craftcotton.com

craftfocus 47 Laying the groundwork for e-commerce

Intelligent Retail’s David Fairhurst explains why it pays to plan ahead when launching a new e-commerce website

As a seasoned online marketer, I’ve probably This is great for established businesses, but if with regularly updated content.” seen every possible scenario when being you have no e-commerce trading history and asked to promote a website, however it are starting a brand new online venture, how TEASER CAMPAIGNS AND BLOGGING always surprises me when clients are totally can you get the ball rolling when your new If you don’t have the ability to launch your on-board with the advice that I give and it e-commerce website is nowhere near ready e-commerce website with all of its associated really makes my day when it happens. for launch? The answer is show people what revenue generating product content Recently I was asked to promote a new they can expect and then build community. straightaway, then do what you can to start e-commerce business. That’s fine, it’s “If you don’t have the ability to launch your building a community and getting people something that I’ve done many times, but this e-commerce website with all of its associated interested in what you will be offering. The particular e-commerce business is so new revenue generating product content way to do this is to create a content-rich that it doesn’t exist yet, as the website which straightaway, then do what you can to start holding page for your website and a good will be powering the business is perhaps three building a community and getting people quality blog with regularly updated content. months away from completion and isn’t even interested in what you’ll be offering. The way If you already have your domain for your at the design flat-file stage! to do this is to create a content-rich holding new e-commerce website registered then page for your website and a good quality blog get some hosting set up and create an WHY COMMUNITY MATTERS There’s a very good reason why old, established online retailers have stable “So how exactly do you promote a business incomes and that is the fact these websites that’s unable to trade and doesn’t have any generally have lots of repeat business. Getting repeat business relies on lots of happy, visible online presence The answer is, you can’t! communicative customers who are willing However, that isn’t the full story…” to share knowledge of your business online.

48 craftfocus business advice 49 craftfocus C David Fairhurst is Head of Creative Online of Creative is Head David Fairhurst David Retail. at Intelligent Marketing engine has been involved with search optimisation (SEO) and web development at many 1999 and has spoken since conferences. and SEO retail different David on T: +44 (0)845 6800 126 or Contact www.intelligentretail.co.uk. done a fantastic job of presenting all of this job of presenting done a fantastic What imagery. with some great information blogging that you keep suggest now? Well, I’d and posting on social media. All of that your you’ve built up will still want community and Google will love your dedication content you’ll be Plus, I guarantee the cause. to and planning when thanking your foresight pouring in. the revenue starts Believe it or not, now is the time to get Believe it or not, get time to now is the MOVING FORWARD WITH E-COMMERCE FORWARD MOVING will be a point when your there Of course website new e-commerce spanking brand put in all the launch. You’ve for is ready descriptions and work writing product hard have and your designers content category by Google to gauge the popularity of any gauge by Google to has lots of high If your website website. then it websites respected quality links from well. rank to is going links your some of the best, most valuable business will ever have! new e-commerce point, running a blog at this you’re Because people are website, not an e-commerce not give you links as you’re to likely more out tryingdirectly sell anything, so get to other some links! Approach and ask for there their from links and ask for owners website this will do your new yours, to content related on… later business the world of good Get all of your social accounts associated associated all of your social accounts Get You’ll also need a blog – I recommend also need a blog – I recommend You’ll up and you’ve installed your blog is set After YOU’RE A BLOGGER SO GET THOSE LINKS! A BLOGGER YOU’RE used another are to one website Links from You may not think that it’s important to track track to important may not think that it’s You you to urge however I’d at this stage, results at the outset. installed package a statistics get from picture build up a clearer This helps to so looking for, day one of what people are using suggest guess. I’d you don’t have to (google. own Analytics package Google’s Console (google. and Search co.uk/analytics) which will give you all co.uk/webmasters), Using Google you need and more. the data submit you can will also mean console search and both your holding page for sitemaps blog, which will speed up indexing of results you get and mean your new pages even quicker. TRACKING RESULTS TRACKING SOCIAL MARKETING you’ve as you’ve planned ahead, Of course, your social media accounts grabbed already good your newfor and that’s business you’ll need these next when it comes because you’ve created all of the content promoting to on your blog and holding page. and when you’re with your holding page the world about the amazing tell ready, you’ll be offering. products informative, well written holding page telling telling holding page well written informative, people what they expect when your new can arrives. website e-commerce leader the market easily as it’s Wordpress and user base, of functionality in terms of array and with a vast being open source and themes plugins produced community in a blog should be installed use. Your to (www. of your main domain sub-folder which instance), for littlepeckers.co.uk/blog/ your blog you add to any content means engine search the overall will be adding to as a whole. of your website effectiveness blogging! The sooner a simple design – get as your blog the better to you add content build up history to with search this will start that the likely it more engines and make results in search will appear you write content key phrases. related for Meet ou r new baby... UNIQUELY CRAFTED Jewellery Making Kits FOR ADULTS & CHILDREN

As designers, we carefully craft each kit with the highest quality materials.

Our illustrated instructions are renowned for being easy to Buttonbag is proud to announce the arrival of its new follow so that beginners and experienced crafters alike, baby crafting range. An exciting collection of eight beginner-friendly craft kits perfect for celebrating baby can make beautiful jewellery they’re proud of. showers, baby’s birth, christening, naming and first birthdays. [email protected] | 0207 7078 3955 For more information email Sara and Sarah [email protected] www.buttonbag.co.uk children’s craft Courtesy of DMC Creative Courtesy

happy holidays With summer fast approaching, we look at ideas to entertain the children

FUN WITH FIMO Following the successful launch of FIMO kids, the CE marked polymer modelling clay formulated specially for children, Staedtler is extending its Form & Play range of starter sets and also the Create & Play selection for more advanced junior crafters. Softer than FIMO soft and FIMO effect, FIMO kids doesn’t need conditioning and is ideal for children and beginners. There are 24 vibrant colours available in 42g blocks with easy to open, re-sealable packaging. Aimed at beginners, Form & Play is a collection of starter packs containing four FIMO kids colour blocks, a modelling tool and instructions to create the items shown on the pack plus a background scene as a setting for the completed creations. Each pack has a skill level indicator to aid purchasing decisions and encourage progression. New Form & Play designs for this year include Pirate and Seaworld, bringing the total number in the BEAD BONANZA range to fourteen. Jeweltailor has just launched the revised Jewellery Making For more experienced junior modellers, the company offers starter kit for children, which includes a wonderful limited edition the Create & Play range to which it has added two crazy animals butterfly bead box. Each kit has been put together in the UK, and sets, one featuring a monkey and giraffe and the second a lion contains more than 1,000 beads, buttons and sequins, 10m of and tiger. elastic, lovely rainbow cord and a booklet that teaches children about mixing colour but is also a guide to making everything from Staedtler rings to friendship style bracelets. T: +44 (0)845 600 5930 The kit has recently been tested by well known parent and E: [email protected] lifestyle blogger, Briony Stebbings, who spent time making with W: www.staedtler.co.uk her toddler. “The brightly coloured beads were a big hit. We loved the wide range of beads including animal, sparkly, wooden, cartoon and plastic beads. There were so many shapes and sizes, beautiful buttons and even letter beads so you can personalise whatever you make. We spent hours together making with this kit, and barely scratched the surface of what it contains. It’s priced at £14.99 so is great value for money,” comments Briony.

Jeweltailor T: +44 (0)20 7078 3955 E: [email protected] W: www.jeweltailor.com

craftfocus 51 happy holidays

NEAT NEEDLEPOINT SoloCrafts is pleased to announce its new partnership with MAKING FRIENDS WITH CRAFT Eurocraft, the kit DMC is pledging to help harassed mums stave off cries of ‘I’m portion of the Grafitec bored!’ from little ones stuck inside during the typical British business. One of summer with a fun line of children’s craft products. the great elements Friendship bracelets are a perennial favourite. My Friendship of this range is Bracelet Maker includes 56 pre-cut threads, and slide out storage the needlepoint tray to keep strands tidy. The smaller Traveller version is perfect kit collection for to take on holiday. Every pack of Prism craft thread includes children. With a selection of 24 fun designs in instructions for making friendship bracelets too. bold, bright colours, available individually or as a counter-packaged DMC’s range of children’s tapestry kits includes everything they assortment, these will tempt many youngsters into crafting. need to safely stitch their own masterpiece with printed canvas The kits are packaged with the printed canvas displayed in a clear designs ranging from pirates to princesses to camper vans, there’s window within a funky border, and clear stitch instructions printed something for every tweeny and young teen too. on the reverse, with nine languages used. Inside there’s 10-count duo Finally Hoop It kits offer an original introduction to the joys of canvas with the coloured design, soft cotton threads, a John James creative stitching and appliqué. Each kit contains an embroidery needle and white card to back the finished design for framing. Each hoop, fabric, threads, fabric pen and needle for individual creativity design is 10cm x 10cm and they retail for £5.99 each. or family fun.

Eurocraft is distributed by Solocrafts DMC Creative T: +44 (0)161 464 7313 T: +44 (0)116 275 4000 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.solocrafts.com W: www.dmccreative.co.uk

KEEP KIDS GLUED TO THEIR CRAFTING PROJECTS ExaClair, the UK supplier of Avenue Mandarine, has expanded its Graffy Pop Collection of children’s crafting activities. To help add a creative, family-friendly twist to meal times is the Graffy Cook collection. Each colouring book contains 24 placemat designs ready to be coloured in, and used to decorate dinner tables to the crafters’ and adults’ delight. The books are available in food-friendly super- hero vegetables and treats. New Graffy Puppet books, each with 12 different fairytale or animal super-hero pre-cut designs, are an JUNIOR CROSS-STITCH COLLECTIONS easy win with children, as Heritage Crafts has a lovely new range of junior plus once coloured in the DIY designs from Amanda Jane Butler. The designs are stitched puppets will inspire hours on 11ct Aida using whole stitches and outlining only, and of imaginative play. measures around 8cm x 10cm and include cat, fox, dog, frog, owl and fairy. The retail price for each kit is £11.50. ExaClair T: +44 (0)1553 696 600 Heritage Crafts E: [email protected] T: +44 (0)1889 575 256 W: www.exaclair.co.uk E: [email protected] W: www.hcrafts.com

52 craftfocus images courtesy of Sylvain Guernot

Kits, Supply Packs and Tools lovingly put together by The Makerss, Needle Felting Experts and Authors of Making Needle Felted Animals

01453 298725 [email protected] www.themakerss.co.ukwww.themakerss.co.uk happy holidays

AWAY DAYS Set on the foothills of Dartmoor National Park, The Manor House and Ashbury Hotels are the ideal venue for a craft break with the children. MESS-FREE PAINTING Both craft centres offer Brian Clegg has been working in the education sector for many years 17 tutored crafts from and is now branching out into the retail industry. Little Brian is part of pottery and candle well-known stationery brand Brian Clegg and has a new range called making to enamelling Paint Sticks. and woodwork – there’s Parents will like this innovative product as its a fun and clean way something to keep the whole family busy. to paint, with no need for water or brushes without the mess. Paint One of the most popular activities for children is bisque Sticks are perfect for children, and adults too and ideal for the adult painting. The workshop offers a fantastic choice of more than 150 colouring craze. pre-made items including Christmas decorations, animal figurines The sticks are child-friendly, simply twist up and down to paint just and popular children’s characters. Prices start from as little as like a glue stick. The sticks can be used on all surfaces paper, card, £1.50, simply select the item of your choice and decorate using canvas and wood and even on windows, and will wash off glass. The acrylic or under glaze paint. Your finished piece will be fired in the paint dries instantly and is completely washable from clothing. kiln overnight and be ready for collection the next morning.

Little Brian Manor House and Ashbury Hotels T: +44 (0)1706 666 620 T: +44 (0)800 197 7552 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.littlebrian.com W: www.activityhotelbreaks.co.uk

DRESSING UP CRAFT ESSENTIALS Launched earlier this year, GMC has a selection of books Bright Ideas Marketing is a leading wholesaler in the craft retail and education packed with ideas and inspiration for crafting at home markets, and can provide competitive pricing for your craft supplies with free with children. Whether your customers are looking for next day delivery on orders over £50. activities to occupy an aspiring knight or princess, the new The range includes all of the everyday craft essentials for children that booklets The Princess Craft Book and The Knight Craft Book, will see you over the summertime and beyond including tissue paper, crepe from popular children’s bloggers Little Button Diaries, will paper, school display materials such as border rolls and poster paper, provide hours of entertainment and both retail at £6.99. calendar tabs, cellophane, chalks and chenille stems. The company also has some big value bundles, which are well worth a look at. With more than 1000 GMC Distribution products online, there’s something for everyone and the more you buy, the T: +44 (0)1273 488 005 more you’ll save. E: [email protected] The Bright Ideas Marketing website has a section with fantastic blogs and W: www.gmcdistribution.com how-to guides covering a wide range of craft ideas, as well as showing you in concise step-by-step guides and what materials you’ll need to celebrate big events.

Bright Ideas Marketing T: +44 (0)1284 724 759 E: marketing@ brightideascrafts.co.uk W: www.brightideascrafts.co.uk

54 craftfocus

where to start in business Sara Davies talks about what type of business is best for you

So, you’ve decided to start your own craft Sole traders maintain business? That’s great news! Craft is so many complete control over their things to so many people and take it from business, which means someone who started her business from a they keep all their profits love of a hobby – there are fewer things that after tax. However, legally are more fulfilling than doing something you speaking, this also means love every single day. that you and your business That doesn’t mean you’re in for an easy are one entity. ride though. Doing it on your own means that Beware as this means you have to live and breathe your company, you carry the legal and especially in the first few months and years. financial responsibilities At times, you’ll wonder what made you think of the company, and your being self-employed was a good idea but, personal assets, such as stick it out, it’s all worth it I promise. your home, could be in jeopardy if the business Deciding how to trade runs into trouble. What you One of the first decisions you’ll make need to decide is how likely when you start out is whether to trade as a that is. If you have very few company or as an individual. Both being a risks, for example suppliers sole trader and a limited company have their and loans, then being a benefits and their pitfalls, so it’s important sole trader might well be that you make sure you choose the right the right choice while your before you do, the absolute best advice that I structure for your business. business is in its infancy. can give you is to seek the advice of someone Before you choose your company who has done it before. Whether that's a close structure, there are a number of things that Limited company friend or family member, a friend of a friend you should consider. There are various tax, A limited company on the other hand or a business mentor, I can't say enough how legal, ownership and liability implications protects its directors from this, and gives much easier life will be for you if you can associated with running your own business them limited liability. The business is cut down the stress with some advice from and you need to decide which type of registered with the Companies House and someone with experience. structure is most appropriate for your becomes completely separate to its owner, You can also seek advice from a solicitor, company, based on the factors that will who will then be paid by the business as an an accountant or a formation agent and affect it. This may of course change as your employee or a shareholder. there's a wealth of information available company grows but it’s important to choose Although a limited company requires more online, which can all help you make the the right option for your business as it administration work and is costlier to set up right decisions. is today. in the first place, there is often less personal So, what is the difference between a sole risk for the owner in the long term. Nothing’s set in stone trader and a limited company? Well, first of They can also be more tax efficient, but But, if you do choose the wrong structure, all, setting up as a sole trader is much easier, there are a lot more rules and regulations don’t panic! If it becomes apparent you would which is great if you really want to focus on which restrict a limited company including benefit from changing your structure you can. the important things such as producing or more paperwork and potential penalties for Hopefully this has made things a bit clearer buying high quality products. doing it poorly, accountancy fees, what your for you! Best of luck with your new business company can be called and how you can and happy trading! C Sole trader withdraw money from the company. To set up as a sole trader, all you have to do Sara Davies is a Durham-born craft is contact HMRC, let them know that you’re Seek advice entrepreneur and the founder of Crafter’s trading and register for a self-assessment That all sounds very scary but as long as you Companion. For further information, visit form so that you can do your tax return don’t rush into your decision, you’ll be able www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk. in October. to make the right choice for you. However,

56 craftfocus bookstand

Make additional sales by stocking craft books alongside other product lines. We review the latest editions to hit the shelves

KNITTING AND CROCHET

HOOOKED KNITTING AND CROCHET Price: £10.16 ISBN: 9782848319995 Published by Societe d’information et de Creations and available to stock from Hoooked

Hoooked DIY pattern book has 30 contemporary yet easy patterns to help you make your own knitted and crochet pieces using the Hoooked 100 per cent recycled textile yarns. The book features a variety of projects, which have been split into sections: Pastels, Bright & Fun, By the Sea, Nature Home and Graphic. Choose from a snugly knitted throw blanket for colder days to a macramé zpagetti hammock for summer lounging. It’s full of wonderful ideas and inspiration for all skill levels, and has lots of illustrations and photos to help you along the way plus QR codes that link to online video tutorials.

CHILDREN’S CRAFTS We say: “The book may be small in size but it’s packed full of projects for all ages and abilities that will entice yarn-lovers the whole year HALF YARD KIDS round. We love the bag designs that we’ve featured on our project page By Debbie Shore on page 71.” Price: £9.99 RRP ISBN: 9781782212553 Publisher: Search Press

Half Yard Kids contains 20 projects for children to make using leftover pieces of fabric. Author and sewing expert, Debbie Shore has created some innovative projects to keep the young children entertained, and includes a funky fishing game, mini backpack as well as seasonal ideas for Halloween. The book is perfect for those new to sewing, explains about tools, techniques and tips throughout and is full of illustrations guaranteed to keep them occupied.

We say: “This book comes out just in time to help parents find things to do during the summer holidays.”

58 craftfocus book reviews

NEW TRENDS HIRAMEKI By Peng & Hu Price: £9.95 ISBN: 9780500292488 Publisher: Thames & Hudson PAPERCRAFTS

Hirameki translates from PAPER + TAPE: CRAFT & CREATE Japanese language into By Marisa Edghill ‘brainwave’ or ‘flash of Price: £12.99 inspiration’, and explores the art of doodling, and a little ISBN: 978-1633220485 imagination to create characters from small inkblots on the page. Publisher: Walter Foster, part of the Quarto Publishing Group The book is packed with readymade splodges, blots and paint splatters that can be transformed into whatever you like. Just by Paper + Tape: Craft & Create is full of original step-by-step projects that adding a few dots and lines, here and there, a page full of random blots are perfect for making with Washi tape. The book includes ideas for can be turned into works of art. birthday cards and DIY coasters to paper puppets and wall art. It also Creative, whimsical and a little bit radical, Hirameki is the perfect features helpful tips and beautiful photographs of finished work, and antidote to the digital world and encourages the crafter’s imagination shows crafters how to draw and write with the tape and build collages. to run-a-muck. The technique of Hirameki is apparently going to be the creative phenomenon of 2016 and is an ingenious take on the Rorsach We say: “We love how this book turns five common craft materials into Inkblot Test. innovative projects using the Washi tapes.”

We say: “This quirky little book is perfect for moments of ‘me’ time when you want to forget the stresses and strains of the day. We can’t wait to give it a go.”

HOME DESIGN

INTERIOR INSPIRATION SCANDINAVIA By Sonia Lucano Price: £16.95 RRP ISBN: 9780500292396 Publisher: Thames & Hudson

This design-inspired book showcases just about everything you need to know about Scandinavian home styling, which is currently a very popular style in the craft world. Natural materials, neutral colours, clean and elegant lines, all signify classic Scandinavian design. The book introduces you to its history and major designers like Arne Jacobsen and Stig Lindberg, as well as key furniture and textiles designers including Litala and Marimekko. Home enthusiasts will appreciate the 30 step-by-step DIY projects that show how to customise furniture and common household objects into Book contacts decorative pieces for the home including wall printing and customising Batsford, batsford.com tired furniture. Search Press, www.searchpress.com Hooked, www.hooked.nl We say: “Interior inspiration Scandivanian isn’t just a reference book for Thames & Hudson, www.thamesandhudson.co.uk interior designers. The projects are inspiring and show you how to add Quarto Publishing, www.quartoknows.com those extra finishing and personal touches to household items.”

craftfocus 59 original or copy: do you know the difference? Dids Macdonald, ACID’s CEO, looks at the biggest IP myths in the design industry

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY (IP) IS QUITE COMPLICATED AND SURROUNDED BY MANY MYTHS. Two of the most common myths, thought by copyists to be a defence, are:

1.“If someone makes seven changes or a certain percentage change to a design it becomes a new design.”

2. “Registering designs is useless because if you make one slight percentage change in the design the registration is invalid!”

Those who ‘alter’ designs by making a few changes and think they’re creating new designs could be in for a very sharp shock and land on the wrong side of the law!

The good news is that designers are getting more IP aware than ever to protect their original designs.

“Will posting a copy of my work to myself help to prove its origination?” “Registering designs is useless because if you Known as the 'poor man’s copyright', posting a copy of your work to yourself isn't a reliable make one slight percentage change in the method for proving origination. The reason design the registration is invalid!” Wrong! The is that the method can be easily faked and manipulated. For example, an empty and test for whether a design infringes a registered unsealed envelope can be posted and the design is whether it creates a different overall work sealed inside at a later date to give the impression it was created earlier. It’s unlikely impression as the registered design on the this evidence would stand up in Court. informed user. It’s not simply about counting The best way to deal with origination issues is to ensure all stages of design development the number of elements of the design, which that go into the creation of a work are signed have been reproduced or changes that have by the author, and dated, then stored in a safe place. Such documentation could include been made to it.” sketches, drafts, plans etc. However, once the work’s complete, filing THE TOP TWO IP MYTHS The other latest IP myths are: a copy of the work with a recognised third “If I change a design or artwork by a “How do I register Copyright?” party such as a solicitor, bank or independent percentage it becomes a new design.” You can’t! In the UK, Copyright arises organisation will help provide evidence of a Wrong! It’s neither the number nor percentage automatically upon the creation of a new latest possible date of creation. ACID offers of changes that somebody makes to your and original work in a tangible form (e.g. such a service through the ACID Design design. It’s the importance of the elements, a design drawing or greeting card); there is Databank. Approximately 25,000 designs per which have been taken from your design that no requirement for registration. Copyright year are logged with ACID. This doesn't add is used in deciding whether your rights have protects written or published works such to unregistered rights such as Copyright or been infringed. This will always vary from case as books, songs, films, web content and design right but provides the all-important, to case. artistic works. third party evidence of the design(s) existence

60 craftfocus business advice 61 C craftfocus RELATED CASE STUDY RELATED amazed Artist Colin W Thompson was his to similar cards spot remarkably to being produced Flocking Sheep range and sold by a previous client without sale permission. If anyone spots these for please or on the internet outlets via retail assist with enquiries. to notify ACID Dids Macdonald has Dids Macdonald than 25 years more within the experience design industry initially owning an interior and design company as a designer- latterly She launched maker. (Anti Copying in ACID her Design) because find To copied. constantlyly were products visit www.acid.uk.com. out more,

There are always exceptions to the general the general to exceptions always are There Both these cases concerned the use of concerned Both these cases another brand endorse to being taken images permission, but the without the celebrities’ if that a quote equally apply to same could very was well known by the quote. celebrity use my to wants company “A this from money do I earn artwork. How my work?” of ownership but keep you would exploit in this scenario Generally, This would licensing. your artwork through rights in the the legal retain allow you to would essentially artwork itself but the license use right to someone else the legal grant will normally specify a that work and in turn known as this license, you for to payable fee main types of three are There fee’. a ‘royalty a sole license license, an exclusive license, license. and a non-exclusive that what rule, and it may well be the case one of those into do will fall you wish to think about contacting Always exceptions. a member of if you are or, your IP solicitor free initial offer affiliates their legal ACID, these. like in cases useful really advice,

The right of celebrities to do this in the to The right of celebrities on the date of receipt. Strong evidence, evidence, Strong of receipt. on the date your prove to should it ever be required, design origination. of and pictures “Can I use quotes artwork people on my products, famous or designs?” this question is not In truth, the answer to in the law, case simple, but in view of recent not be ‘no’, the answer would instance first is no without permission. In the UK there rights per se, image of protectable concept and their images protect can but celebrities of the tort through of theirs quotes famous off. passing in the case established really first UK was [2002] of Irvine and Talksport Ltd another v, driving, racing the famous EWHC 367 where sued Talksport Eddie Irvine, successfully The unauthorised use of his image. for Ltd in Robyn recently much more same occurred Brands Group v Arcadia Rihanna Fenty EWHC 2310 (Ch), Topshop) [2013] (T/A Ltd for Rhianna sued Topshop where a case on a t-shirt. unauthorised use of her image great outdoors We reveal a range of products that are inspired by nature for you to take outdoors

PARTY IN THE GARDEN Warmer weather is the ideal time for customers to take the party into the garden. Create gorgeous garlands and beautiful buntings – it’s MAKEOVER FOR OUTDOOR SPACES all about the decoration. Club Green has an extensive range of Crafting to make your outdoors a more beautiful place can be products just for this sort of occasion with pearl bead garlands and very rewarding. The range of painting kits from You Can Folk It is paper buntings. perfect for giving your garden a facelift. The company stocks an extensive line of paper bunting. We Versatile and fun to create, each kit teaches you the skills that particularly like the heart-shaped bunting, which contains 12 hearts you need to paint each pretty design on to plant pots, garden in each pack and when strung measures 3.5m. It’s available in white, signs and even gardening equipment. The DecoArt Americana brown and ivory and features an extra cut-out decoration. These can acrylics from the starter kits can be applied straight on to any be left plain or decorated to suit your party’s theme. Or for a more porous surface, making it perfect for terracotta pots and wood. sophisticated look, the garland comes in packs of 2m and is available It then needs a coat of varnish to protect it from the elements. in nine colours: fuchsia, red, black, purple, turquoise, pink and Whether you choose a simple dot rose or lavender design from including this season’s on-trend colours of gold, silver and ivory. the starter kits or a more detailed daisy or butterfly from the add-on kits, up-cycling in the garden or creating a thoughtful Club Green gardening gift for a loved one couldn’t be simpler with these T: +44 (0)1483 281 313 comprehensive kits. E: [email protected] W: www.clubgreen.com Folk It T: +44 (0)7792 188 192 E: [email protected] W: www.folkit.co

62 craftfocus great outdoors

CONTEMPORARY CENTRED AROUND CRAFTS FLORAL FABRICS The Manor House and Ashbury hotels are situated on the foothills Spice Garden is a of Dartmoor National Park in Devon. Set in more than 600 contemporary floral acres of beautiful print fabric collection countryside, the from Clothworks. The hotels have the line comprises of three highest level of feature prints and three crafting facilities in co-ordinating ones the UK. All breaks that include wonderful offer exclusive bold and bright florals, full board. beautiful butterflies and One of the most paisley prints. popular facilities There are two main feature prints at the hotel is the consisting of a beautiful brightly coloured craft centre, which floral design that really stands out plus a offers free tuition in stunning striped design. The coordinating 17 different crafts prints are divided into beautiful bold including pottery, prints of striking butterfly design and glass engraving, a contemporary take on a traditional paisley print. The enamelling, complementary selection is kept simple with a tone on tone floral personalised hot vine print and a simple yet effective leaf design so the designs sit press printing and nicely together for creating projects. The collection is available for woodwork. pre-order from EQS for delivery in September/October. The activity programme is EQS distributes Clothworks Collections exclusively flexible and each for UK & Ireland craft activity runs at T: +44 (0)116 271 0033 least once, generally E: [email protected] twice during each stay, so guests can take part in as much or as W: www.eqsuk.com little crafting as they choose. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an expert or a complete GARDEN GIRL novice, the hotels offer tuition from the very basics up. All tuition Garden Girl is a pretty girly fabric is covered within the cost of the break, so you only need to pay for collection featuring cartoon-style the materials you use. flowers and butterflies from Riley The atmosphere in the craft centre is relaxed and friendly, and Blake. The collection is split into since opening has been a considerable source of pleasure for three busy feature prints of large guests of all ages, enjoying the diverse range of crafts on offer. florals and butterflies, recurring pattern of Away from the arts and crafts you’ll be spoilt for choice, and butterflies and more compact floral prints to if you have any energy left, there’s an abundance of activities make up a wonderful selection of fabrics for waiting to be explored. Facilities available free of charge to patchwork and quilting, home furnishings its residents include tennis courts, bowls, badminton courts, and clothing. swimming pools with spa facilities, water slides, 10-pin bowling, The collection is finished with three simpler co-ordinates snooker tables, and target ranges featuring archery, air pistols including spots, delicate florals and a damask print. Available in and air rifles. pink, mint and white, the collection is available for pre-order for Whether you love year round crafting or sports, there’s delivery in December and January from its distributor EQS. something for everyone to enjoy, giving you a truly amazing break that won’t be easily forgotten. EQS distributes Riley Blake Collections exclusively for UK & Ireland The Manor House and Ashbury Hotels T: +44 (0)116 271 0033 T: +44 (0)800 197 7552 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.eqsuk.com W: www.activityhotelbreaks.co.uk

craftfocus 63 great outdoors

CITRONELLA FOR CANDLES This is a great time to think about stocking citronella for those evenings in the garden when the bugs are annoying. Citronella is a plant-based insect repellent and will keep insects away naturally, it also has anti-fungal properties. There is additional evidence that it can calm barking dogs and help prevent damage to owner’s property when used in a spray. Peak Dale Product has solid BRING THE OUTSIDE IN blocks of citronella candle RIOLIS has a series of embroidered flower wreaths perfect to reflect perfume, which means your the seasons. The embroidery Wreath with Bird Cherry created by customers can mix the strength designer Aleksandra Gusarova is a fresh palette of bird cherry, they want into their candle making, bellflowers and willow, which is made up of a wonderful array of indoors or outdoors. The blocks are cheerful summery colours. The embroidery kit features 27 different available in singles and in bulk. colours and includes quality Anchor stranded cotton, needles, Zweigart 14ct. white Aida as well as a booklet and colour chart in Peak Dale Products six languages. The finished embroidery measures 30cm x 30cm T: +44 (0)129 888 447 (11¾in x 11¾in). E: [email protected] W: www.peakdaleproducts.co.uk RIOLIS is distributed by Solocrafts T: +44 (0)161 464 7313 E: [email protected] W: www.solocrafts.com

LITTLE GEM OF THE SKIES Everyone’s favourite flyers are back. Flight of the Butterflies card collection from Hunkydory Crafts has had a glamorous makeover. These beautiful butterflies have been encased in the most stunning jewel colours to give them a new lease of life. The value-laden collection contains eight fabulous topper sets and three wonderful concept card kits (each making four cards), meaning now you can make a minimum of 28 cards from the collection. Alongside Flight of the Butterflies jewelled special edition luxury card collection, there are also a stunning variety of coordinating items, such as inserts and background papers, a brand new Little Book, foiled acetate and more. Prices start from £2.99.

Hunkydory Crafts T: +44 (0)1772 272 575 E: [email protected] W: trade.hunkydorycrafts.co.uk

64 craftfocus Club Green has a fantastic mix of products to make your customer’s celebrations truly handmade including a wonderful selection of items for the current DIY wedding trend. In addition, the company also has an assortment of items for Valentine’s Day, Easter, Christmas and Halloween, as well as for special occasions including parties, and baby showers. From big and bold, pastels and neutrals, there are innovative products for everyone including ribbons, gift tags, cake boxes, buntings, garlands, trimmings and more. www.clubgreen.com Tel: +44 (0)1483 281313 Email: [email protected] great outdoors

CREATIVE MARKERS CRAFTING IDEAS FOR OUTDOORS FROM Sakura Pen-touch Ceramglass are the latest creative markers, and have been designed to work on a number of surfaces PLASTIKOTE including glass, ceramic and porcelain. Once they’re dry, they’re “Add instant colour to your garden this summer colourfast and dishwasher safe. The pens are also odourless and water-based, so mistakes can be removed for up to 12 hours before using old tin cans and PlastiKote spray paint.” they become permanent. What makes them different from other pens is that they work on a variety of surfaces but they also need The colourful dragonfly, no baking making them perfect for large and oddly shaped items. ladybird and bee are The pens come in eight vibrant colours including red, purple, easy-to-make and will green, yellow, blue, black, orange and white, and are available cheer up a dull corner or in two nib widths of 1mm (fine) and 2mm (medium). The point of maybe scare the birds sale display comes with 125 pens at an introductory price of £230, off your vegetable patch. open stock is also available at £1.95 each and is distributed by Woodware. 1. Ensure the can you’re spraying is clean Woodware Craft Collection and dry. T: +44 (0)1756 700 024 2. Apply the paint in E: [email protected] fine layers, following W: www.woodware.co.uk instructions on the tin. 3. To make the stripes and spots, use masking tape and circular- shaped stickers. 4. Use 3mm wire to shape wings and spray with paint. Insert holes in the top of the can with a braddle. If you don’t have any wire to hand, an old coat hanger works well. 5. Make a larger hole underneath to insert a stick or garden cane. 6. Stick on a pair of googly eyes on the tin to finish.

We used PlastiKote Twist & Spray in Bright Red Gloss and Black Gloss for the ladybird and planter, Yellow Gloss and Black Gloss for the Bee and April Green Gloss and Exotic Sea Gloss for the dragonfly.

Another idea for the garden A catering-size baked bean will make a colourful planter and looks great with the ladybird.

PlastiKote T: +44 (0)844 736 2235 E: plastikotehelp@ valspar.com W: plasti-kote.co.uk

66 craftfocus Sock Yarn Specialist

Knitting Boards and Looms

www.viridianyarn.com | [email protected] tel: 0117 300 5244 Taking shape

Sharron Belcher, Retail Sales Manager for Vlieseline talks to Craft Focus about changes within the company

Vilene has recently changed its name to Vlieseline, which has been the brand name in Europe. Why did the company decide to do this? With a long tradition of innovation and creativity Vilene has become synonymous with quality interlinings for all those with a passion for sewing, tailoring, dressmaking and leading edge textile design. We’ve been serving customers all over the world for more than 60 years, and offering the highest level of uncompromised technology. Vlieseline/Vilene was first launched into the market in the early ’50s and since then has become the essential interlining for all kinds of applications. In the UK under Vilene, in Northern Europe under Vlieseline and in Southern Europe under Flieselina – all three brands belong to Freudenberg, the founding German company. Since those early days, the market has become a global one and for this reason Freudenberg has decided to go back to Vlieseline also specialise in creative its roots and promote worldwide under products for textile artist and craft makers one brand name Vlieseline. In a globalised alike. These high quality interlinings provide world, ideas and creativity have no borders, the basic ingredient for a perfect finish and and Freudenberg still holds firm to leading safe solutions. edge technology, excellent quality and with creativity always at the forefront. What are your best-selling products? Bondaweb is still our most popular product Staunch stitchers will be very familiar because of its diversity. It’s a backed webbing with the company products, but for those that’s fusible on both sides, and is suitable for not in the know, please explain what bonding fabrics together, appliqué, creative they are? arts and mending. Vlieseline products are the most famous Interlinings such as best seller H180, G405 and prestigious interlinings for those with a and H250 remain popular as the dressmaking and even printed onto. passion for sewing as well as for professional trend continues to grow. The company also tailors, dressmakers, quilters, embroiderers has a wide range of products for quilting and Do you have any exciting new products and garment manufacturers. patchwork that designers like to showcase that you can tell us about? There’s such a wide range of options and regularly such as H640 fusible wadding and New product development is an exciting choosing the right interlining has a direct 272 Thermolam, which is ideal for stabilising area for Vlieseline, and there are a number effect on the drape, handle, stability and patchwork projects. of new items currently in production at the finish of a mass manufactured or homemade S80 is a favourite with education, textile moment. We’ve been able to monitor the garment. They range from light, medium and designers, crafters, soft furnishing makers. trends in the consumer sectors and with the heavy weight, woven and non-woven, fusible This product is a versatile heavyweight sew-in mass manufacturing industry division of the (iron-on) or sew-in. interlining that can be painted, embroidered company, we’ve got an insight into the market

68 craftfocus company profile

making us always able to bring in new lines that we’re sure the market will respond well to. Currently the items that we’re most excited about are a new slightly heavier-weight Thermolam® but has an even more luxurious feel. We also have a new foam-based wadding called STYLE-VIL, which has been developed for bag and accessory making. Launched earlirt this year, it has been championed by shows throughout the UK, and this has put designers like Debbie Von Grabler Crozier. the company in a strong position to be able This summer will see a much called for on to take an overview on the textiles arena and trend knitted fusible interlining H609 for jersey the sewing market in general. During these garments which will transform jersey skirts events, we’ve been able to interact with and jackets so watch this space. consumers and retailers, which have given us a valuable insight into the sector. The company has an exciting new website The interest in textile-based crafts like DIY – tell us about the sorts of things that it fashions and creating garments, to home now includes? décor, patchwork and quilting and textile Our new website is www.vlieseline.com. It’s art is growing. While we’re still noting an user-friendly and allows both retailers and expanding interest from those with little or no consumers to search through the vast array creative experiences in these areas, we’re also of Vlieseline products. It also offers trouble- seeing a return to sewing who want to build shooting sections, how-to guides and a their skills and knowledge of textile-based growing collection of video tutorials and free crafts further. It all suggests that this current projects so we hope that this will prove to be popularity is set to grow and evolve with the a valuable resource for the textile community. consumer. We feel that the key to continuing to boost Where can UK retailers get to see the and support this sector and encourage Vlieseline range? Are you attending any growth lies in continuing to support entry- more show this year? level information as well as those looking to Over the last few years Vlieseline has had a advance their skills to appeal to all those who strong presence at both trade and consumer are currently keen stitchers. Vlieseline will be at the Festival of Quilts with demonstrations from popular stitchers, Kim Thittichai and Laura Strutt, as well as Knit and Stitch at Ally Pally, Dublin and Harrogate later on in the year. C

Vlieseline T: +44 (0)1706 754 777 E: [email protected] W: www.vlieseline.com

craftfocus 69 project 71 craftfocus 6 Step out work inside the crochet Turn with a little and sew on the frame sewingbit of matching yarn. . 5 www.hoooked.nl Thanks to Hoooked for the reproduction of this project idea. idea. of this project the reproduction for Hoooked Thanks to book (£10.16) has 30 DIY pattern Knitting and Crochet Hoooked your own knitted help you make to patterns easy yet contemporary textile recycled 100 per cent using the Hoooked pieces and crochet which have been split of projects, a variety The book features yarns. Home and Nature the Sea, By Bright & Fun, sections: Pastels, into Choose Graphic. makes exciting such as a macramé hammock zpagetti summer for lounging or a zingy star-stitch crochet of full It’s bag. ideas wonderful and inspiration all skill levels,for and has lots of and illustrations help to photos you along the way that plus QR codes online video link to tutorials. visit stock To Step Fold in the middle (ridges in the middle (ridges Fold close both sides and vertical) leaving with a double crochet, fit. to frame the 8 cm for • Jasseron chain • Jasseron hook • 10mm crochet Get ready for the new season of yarns with of yarns the new for season ready Get purse crocheted a contemporary

4 3 1 2

Step

Step Step

Chain 20 and turn. Step R2 - 18: Crochet 1 double crochet in each stitch, always crochet in crochet always stitch, in each 1 double crochet R2 - 18: Crochet structure. the ridge create loop to the back R1: Crochet 1 double R1: Crochet stitch in each crochet until the end of the row and turn. After you’ve gone up and down 18 rows, you’ll have 9 bulky ridges in rows, you’ll have 9 bulky ridges gone up and down 18 you’ve After slip-stitch even work. edging by crocheting a nice Make your crochet 1 you increase sure work make the 4 sides of the crochet around square. a perfect in every make stitch to stitch, corner MATERIALS NEEDED MATERIALS

• 1 bobbin of Hoooked • 1 bobbin of Hoooked RibbonXL (Lila Dusk) frame • 20cm x 8cm purse

purse pastel pastel

bag making arm candy Products that bag makers and bag lovers will want to buy

FESTIVALS, VACATIONS AND STAYCATIONS Whatever your CONTEMPORARY DESIGNS customers are doing Anna Glad is the bag designer behind the US brand Noodlehead. this summer, why not Thanks to Hantex, the sewing pattern brand is now available in the encourage them to UK. The bags are contemporary in design as well as very practical. crochet the season’s The carryall Maker’s Tote is a pattern for intermediate sewers and perfect accessory. crafters will love it. It’s Noodlehead’s spin on the classic doctor’s bag, A stylish shoulder but designed with handy on-the-go bag will hold festival storage in mind. It’s perfect for children essentials and leave and adults, and will be sure to keep hands free for waving whatever you need close at hand and to the music. A brightly organised. The sewing pattern includes striped tote is roomy two different sizes with a zip back enough to carry books pocket for easy access as well as a series and magazines for of interior pockets. those who prefer to relax with a good read Hantex in leisure time. And if T: +44 (0)1754 820 800 they’re holidaying at E: [email protected] home, where better W: www.hantex.co.uk to keep their yarn and hooks on the go than in a bag they crocheted themselves. TOTALLY TOTES Craft Studio is an up-to-the- DMC Creative minute craft series in tune T: +44 (0)116 275 4000 with current trends where E: [email protected] each book contains 20 DIY W: www.dmccreative.co.uk projects, from the introductory to the more advanced, as well as practical tips and hints HANDY ACCESSORIES for making original designs Simplicity has added several without breaking the bank bag patterns to its summer or one’s spirit. Tote Bags 20 catalogue. This super Creative Projects by Sonia accessory pattern includes Lucano is the answer for all bags not only for all your nature-friendly shoppers. Totes shopping requirements are a good alternative to the throwaway plastic bags, and can be but for travelling too. used time and time again. A simple design can be customised with The sewing patterns are embroidery, dyeing, painting, stamping and more. The book designed by Patty Martin, is complete with stitch techniques, print ideas and easy step and even contain a travel by step guides that make it a fun and easy way to create custom dog bed for the dog on the designs, and retails at £9.95. go. For more bag sewing patterns visit the Simplicity website.

Published by Thames & Hudson Simplicity T: +44 (0)20 7845 5000 T: +44 (0)161 480 8734 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.thamesandhudson.co.uk W: www.simplicitynewlook.com

craftfocus 73 competition

Celebrate the arrival of Grafitec tapestry range WIN! to SoloCrafts The Grafitec range of tapestry canvases and kits are now available from Solocrafts, and they'd like to celebrate this by giving away a selection of items from across the range. Each tapestry canvas is screen-printed, with colour added a layer at a time to build up the final image. This gives a true colour finish of high quality when compared with digital printing techniques. The kits are neatly and attractively packaged and include DMC soft cotton threads, while the canvases have thread requirements in DMC cottons and wool on the reverse. With retail prices starting from just £3.99, it’s an ideal range to introduce your customers to tapestry.

THE PRIZE INCLUDES:

• A selection of 16 tapestry canvasses in a range of four different sizes. • Hooked header cards for retail display. • Five adult designs • Five children’s kits

The prize includes a total of 26 items with a retail value of £259. We have two sets to giveaway! TERMS AND CONDITIONS 1. Competitions are not open to employees of KD Media Publishing Ltd (also excludes immediate family) 2. Entrants must be trade and over 18 years old 3. The competition closing date is subject to change without prior notice 4. The winner will be notified in writing 5. The editor’s decision is final 6. The prize is not transferable and has no monetary value 7. No purchase necessary, and there is no TO ENTER charge to enter via the website: To enter the www.craftfocus.com competition, go to www.craftfocus.com, SoloCrafts fill in your details and T: +44 (0)161 464 7313 answer the following E: [email protected] question: W: www.solo-crafts.com Q. How many items are in each prize? Closing date is 31st July, 2016 C

74 craftfocus And now in stock- POWETEC, the Ideal glue for Rhinestones

BEACON ADHESIVES INTRODUCES A POWERFUL NEW GLUE

POWER-TAC, the name says it all! Beacon’s creative team has done it again with a powerful new glue that bonds just about any material imaginable with impressive strength and permanent results…and without any overpowering odour or carcinogenic substances. Power-Tac’s professional formula is a one-part, crystal clear system that has a fast grab and dries crystal clear while remaining flexible. Unlike many glues, Power-Tac never yellows or becomes brittle over time. Power-Tac bonds a wide range of surfaces including glass, plastic, wood, leather, tiles, stones, canvas, beads and so much more. Power-Tac is the perfect glue for both indoor and outdoor use as it’s waterproof and UV resistant. Power-Tac is not only an ideal choice for craft and hobby projects, but is also great for home décor, household repairs and many other applications. Power-up all your creative projects with this impressive and innovative new glue, POWER-TAC!

NEXT WORKING DAY WE ARE SELLING THE COMPLETE DELIVERY AS STANDARD RANGE OF BEACON ADHESIVES

A comprehensive range to meet your needs! T: 020 8953 2143 [email protected] www.creative-distribution.co.uk Unit 4, Lockwood Industrial Park, Mill Mead Road, London N17 9QP Craft and Stationery UK Ltd [email protected] 01462 659050 crafts celebrating british brands Julie Bonnar talks to UK manufacturers and designers to fly the flag and celebrate British brands

Pompom mania Making scents A British invention, the Multipom has been designed and developed by The Soap Kitchen designs and manufactures its own exclusive Textile Artist Sue Walton, who’s based in Suffolk. Fed up with making moulds in North Devon. Most of its products are produced in- just one pompom at a time, she has designed the multipom maker. house by the company’s creative team in either food-grade With one of these ingenious tools, up to 20 pompoms can be made PETG plastic by vacuum forming or in silicone for a more at a time, and they will all be identical. Any size from just 1cm up to three-dimensional shape. The moulds are competitively priced 20cm diameter can be made on the same device, so there’s no need for and can be used for other crafts, not just making soap. The a different gadget for different sizes. company provides a bespoke design service for those with more The ability to quickly and easily make lots of identical pompoms specific requirements. broadens the uses of pompoms greatly. It has wide applications within The new ideas and designs for the moulds are drawn using the soft furnishings, quilting, making braids and trimmings and clothing latest computer software, with models produced initially in plastic can be accessorised, original decorations can be made and they can using their CNC milling machine or 3D printer. The finished moulds be incorporated into many other crafts. Any yarn may be used so it’s are tested for strength and quality with melt and pour soap a handy tool for knitters, crocheters, sewers and anyone interested in including colour and fragrance. crafts and it complements the purchase of yarns. The metal gadget is All designs and further information can be found on the website small enough to store easily and is a haberdashery must for crafters of www.thesoapkitchen.co.uk where trade customers can register. any age. The Multipom retails at £12.99. To find out more, visit www.multipom.com.

Finest wools World of Wool has five best-selling British wools. The company is proud to send out some of the finest wools that Britain has to offer to more than 70 countries worldwide. Blue Faced Leicester fleece is the most popular British product and is highly prized for its likeness to mohair and for its production of attractive lustrous yarns with good resilience. Shetland wool is in demand for handmade textiles because of its variety of colours and adaptable quality. The wool is fine, soft and silky to the touch with a good, bulky down characteristic, perfect for hand spinning, hand felting and many other craft uses. The Welsh sheep is the only purely black breed of sheep to be found in the UK. Its fleece is fine enough to be used in specialty products. To view the product range visit www.worldofwool.co.uk.

TIP: Remember to make sure any British Wool carries the British Wool Crook Mark to ensure you’re buying the best of British.

craftfocus 77 celebrating british brands

Recycle with rag rug making The original recycling project, rag-rugging has never been out of fashion and is still in great demand. The techniques are the same but the styles have evolved and now the same materials and tools are in the best-selling rag rug kit from Peak Dale Products. The kit can be used to make bags and pet bedding, as well as rugs and other projects. The tool is one of the finest of its kind, designed to the company’s specification, and can be used for prodding as well as hooking. Using old clothes is a lovely way to make a memory project, imagine seeing your child’s pyjama fabric or a splash of colour from your Mum’s favourite cardigan as a treasured rug. The rag rug making kit contains a rag rug tool, one square meter of hessian backcloth, a rug gauge and instructions. The recommended retail price is £19.99, and it’s available from www.peakdaleproducts.co.uk.

Creative clocks UK manufacturers, Needcraft has seen sales of its Creative Clock making kit go through the roof. The clever kit allows the manufacture of original-designed clocks using the customer’s Yorkshire’s best favourite fabric or wallpaper as a background so that it can be When Redhound for matched in with the new or existing room scheme. There’s also Dogs saw the West the option to print your own design or photograph onto a piece of Yorkshire Spinners fabric to fit the clock. Bluefaced Leicester The manufacture of kits takes place in Needcraft’s Essex HQ, and DK print yarn, they’re available for purchase as single items, easy-to-stock trade the team knew it packs, or special manufacturer or workshop packs. The clocks wanted to use it in have been tailored to suit homemakers, retailers, manufacturers its new Premium or teaching businesses. The British company also has other kits kit range. available including lampshades and bins. For more details, visit The dog jumper www.needcraft.co.uk. kits comes in four sizes: Toy dog, Dachshund, Terrier and Whippet. All kits have two patterns, a jumper and a coat, and enough yarn to make one of them as well as bamboo needles and sewing needle. All kits are packaged in the company’s signature British-made boxes, making them ideal for any one who stocks this lovely yarn as hopefully the customer would come back for more wool to knit the other pattern! For more information about the kits, visit www.redhoundfordogs.com.

78 craftfocus celebrating british brands

Traditional British papers ExaClair, the UK supplier of Decopatch, has released new papers into its Traditional British collection, giving crafters further inspiration for this flying the flag trend. Adding to the range’s tartan, gold, red-and-green spotty, London buses and musical score designs is a red textured paper. Nick Parry, Head of Art and Craft at ExaClair, says, “The Quintessentially British scenes papers are perfect for decorating boxes and household trinkets, Mouseloft is a British needlecraft company, which is celebrating its complementing the trendy home décor theme. Also, we have 20th anniversary this year. The company specialises in small counted some very exciting well-suited maché products including a tin cross-stitch kits many of which retail at just £2.29. soldier standing at over a metre-and-a-half tall.” The Images Of Britain range features 10 lovely cross-stitch designs To find out more go to www.exaclair.co.uk. with a distinctly British feel. The most popular design is proving to be ‘Tea Time’ which shows a typically British teatime scene, with a teapot taking centre stage. Other popular iconic designs include the iconic red London bus and telephone box. Getting away from the city, the little thatched cottage is popular too. PoS displays are available. Mouseloft takes pride in achieving low prices but without compromising quality. To view the complete range, go to www.mouseloft.co.uk.

Magical stamps Lavinia Stamps is an established British company offering a whole range of distinctive and inspirational products, thriving on new ideas and ventures to bring British talent in abundance original innovations to the market place. DMC continue to work with talented designers, and this Lavinia Stamps is releasing a new and year, as our own Queen celebrates her 90th birthday, the exciting range at the end of June that company has got plenty of British-based design to share. features beautiful clear polymer stamps, The Tatty Teddy licensed cross-stitch collection is a which have been produced to a high quality collaboration with Me to You, which won a British Craft to deliver a sharp detailed beautiful image Awards this year. DMC has created bespoke colours in every time. The stunning news images are 100 per cent cotton yarns to accurately bring the blue- full of texture and pattern allowing crafters nosed bear to life in crochet too. A more highbrow to colour, emboss, découpage and layer, partnership has seen DMC work with The National Gallery which will be popular in mix media. to meticulously translate some of the world’s best-loved For more information visit artworks into stunning cross-stitch kits. The collection www.laviniastamps.co.uk. was recently recognised in the Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards. If huggable bears and high art aren’t enough, the cross-stitch Signature Collection includes a range of bright bold interpretations of London icons. 2016 is a great year to stitch the best of Britain. For more information about any of the ranges, visit the DMC Creative website, www.dmccreative.co.uk.

80 craftfocus & Under one roof! June 25th - 27th Ricoh Arena, Coventry

3 days of educational seminars, including social media, IP law, product development, successful retailing and more! Hands on product training, the latest industry research & networking opportunities - can you aff ord to miss it? book now at www.cha-uk.co.uk!

Join Today! Tel: 01206 364977 www.cha-uk.co.uk

crafts

Derwent successfully accepted into Made in Britain Campaign Following more than 175 years of manufacturing in Cumbria, Derwent has become a member of Made in Britain, a select group of British manufacturers who are authorised to use the Made in Britain marque. Made in Britain is made up of more British wildlife in needle felt than five hundred British businesses and Derwent is proud to join many other The Red Squirrel is one of the newest critters in members. Hawthorn Handmade range of needle felting craft Established in 2011, Made in Britain celebrates and promotes British industry to kits. As with all kits, it’s made in Britain with British a national and international market. Following market research, it was found that wool and is the perfect creative gift for beginners and 63 per cent of the British general public believed that a marque needed to exist. The experience crafters. marque allows consumers to recognise when they’re ‘buying British’ but also gives Each complete kit contains everything you need to brands the opportunity to celebrate their heritage and craftsmanship. create your animal and comes in a box as delightful Derwent has been perfecting the art of pencil making in the Lake District on as the creatures themselves. The company has the shores of Derwent Water for more than 175 years. Astri Saunders, Marketing put lots of thought and care into how the kits are Manager for Derwent, said “We’re very pleased to become a member of Made in presented and into creating comprehensive ‘can’t go Britain. As recognition of the Derwent brand continues to grow internationally, wrong’ instructions. we felt it was important to reinforce our long British heritage and commitment to The company prides itself on the products shelf British craftsmanship.” appeal and customers will enjoy transforming the John Pearce, CEO of Made in Britain, comments “We’re very excited at the wool in their kit into an animal with true character. prospect of working with Derwent, the most famous UK brand in artist’s pencils. The Red Squirrel is one of 20 needle felting kits Creativity and design are at the very heart of manufacturing, so a household name retailing from £15.50 and there are also 11 brooch kits in the artist materials industry is really important to Made in Britain. Our marque retailing at just £8.75. promotes the products of British industry and the tools needed to create them” To view more of the Hawthorn Handmade kits, visit In 2014/15, British exports made £2.7 billion for the economy. The Derwent brand www.hawthornhandmade.co.uk. has started to show the Made in Britain marque on its products from April 2016.

GET THE RED, WHITE AND BLUE LOOK PlastiKote for a right British summer Why not brighten up your shop window with a patriotic red, white and blue project. Take some old metal garden furniture and give it a right royal makeover. For the table, the company has used PlastiKote Metal Protekt in white. Simply give the furniture a good clean and, with a wire brush, remove any old flakes of peeling paint. When it’s dry, spray a few fine coats of PlastiKote Metal Protekt for an instant transformation. Leave five minutes between each coat and the paint should be touch dry within 10-20 minutes and thoroughly dry in 30-40 minutes. It couldn’t be easier. Repeat the process for the chairs with PlastiKote Outdoor in Real Red and Rustic Blue. The spray paint is available in seven vibrant colours. For more information, call PlastiKote on +44 (0)844 736 2235 or email [email protected].

craftfocus 83 HHH Enterprises

Website: www.hhhenterprises.com Etsy.com: HHH Designs

GRAPHIC 45 PIONEER JONES BUTTONS KAISERCRAFT FABSCRAPS WEBSTER’S PAGES BO BUNNY CANDY BOX CRAFTS IMPRESSION OBSESSION CREATIVE WORLD OF CRAFTS Our lockets are perfect to showcase art, found objects, STRETCH MAGIC heirlooms and more - they create more than a piece of PETALOO jewellery, they showcase a legacy. HEARTFELT CREATIONS Customers all over the world find www.hhhenterprises.com DRESS IT UP or on Etsy.com HHH Designs and discover a world of creative components to craft one of a kind legacy jewellery.

Contact: [email protected]

The UK’s leading magazine for the craft industry

Quick & Easy 6-in-1 Craft Scissors To advertise here telephone Tracy Voice on +44 (0)1376 535 618

QuickSnippers.comCwww.craftfocus.com US crafts across the pond Julie Bonnar catches up with US distributors and manufacturers

AMERICAN PAPERCRAFT KING OF DISTRIBUTION FOR U.S INDEPENDENT Jones Crafts has recently become a SEWING BRANDS distributor for Heartfelt following the “Demand for sewing patterns is CHA Show in Anaheim and already at an all time high and reflects had its first consignment with another the incredible level of interest one booked to be here in the near in home sewing, wearables future. HeartFelt Creations produces and dressmaking. Shops tell us an exciting new collection every month they love being able to order that comprises dies, cling stamps and a paper collection. manageable quantities across all brands and saving on import Heartfelt Creations is distributed by Jones Crafts costs,” says Paul Smith from Hantex. T: +44 (0)1159 781 263 The company continues to increase its range of some of the E: [email protected] major US independent sewing pattern brands making it easier W: www.jonesnottm.co.uk than ever to stock the patterns that dressmakers want to make. Hot off the press, Hantex has just added Christine Hayne’s patterns to its growing range of independent pattern designers. Colette’s newest release is the Selene skirt. This modern pencil skirt has a vintage-influenced style with classic details, and is bound to become a wardrobe staple. Meanwhile, Cashmerette has introduced the Concord T-shirt and Sewaholic has updated its packaging and has a superb collection of active and leisurewear. Other sewing brands from the US to look out for include Made By Rae, Grainline, Serendipity and Sew Caroline.

Hantex T: +44 (0)1754 820 800 E: [email protected] W: www.hantex.co.uk

SHRINK ART Grafix is well known for its Shrink range of products. Create your art and shrink it with Grafix Shrink Film. Then design, cut-out and Bake. Creations will shrink to half their original size and become nine times thicker. The line is available in clear, white, black, sanded, Inkjet clear, Inkjet white and six bright colours of red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple. Use permanent markers or paint pens to create one-of-a-kind designs, and draw on with LOVELY LOCKETS ease using coloured pencils on Grafix Super Sanded Shrink Film. HHH Enterprises starting importing jewellery supplies back in the ’80s, Print photos, clip art and text on Inkjet Shrink film. Use to make specialising in charms and findings as well as beads and chains. One of jewellery, embellishments, papercrafts, magnets, keychains and the latest products is a range of lockets that are perfect for crafters to tag art. Children can use it too. Grafix Shrink Film is offered in 8.5in showcase their artwork, collectible papers, photographs and x 11in sheets in packs of six and a large pack of 50 complete with trinket objects. easy to follow instructions.

HHH Enterprises Grafix T: +1 800 777 0218 T: +1 216 581 9050 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.hhhenterprises.com W: www.grafixarts.com

craftfocus 85

lighting a little light The latest innovative products to shed light on crafting

CRAFT STATION The LED Light Box and Task Lamp Station is perfect for all artists and crafters. With three brightness settings and a large illumination area, tracing patterns and drawings has never been easier. The bright LEDs with a smooth slanted surface disperse light and eliminate dark or hot spots. There are two handy storage areas with nine compartments that hold papers, pencils, crayons, paintbrushes, and any other supplies needed. The Light Box easily transforms into a multi-position task lamp too.

Ottlite (European sales and logistics) is facilitated by XP Distribution T: +44 (0)330 440 0189 E: [email protected] W: www.ottlite.com

SMART LAMPS The Smart Lamp D20 from the Daylight Company LET THERE BE LED LIGHT changes colour New models of the hugely popular and innovative Mighty temperature from Bright LED craft lights will arrive soon in the UK. The NuFlex and warm white to WonderFlex are updated versions of the bestselling HammerHead daylight to suit and DoubleFlex craft lights. Constructed of matte silicone, the your preference triple-LED NuFlex and double-LED WonderFlex are multi-purpose throughout the craft lights. The LEDs are precisely calibrated to cast warm white day, which makes light allowing for high colour rendering, enabling crafters to see it ideal for allsorts colours accurately. of crafters. The lamp is dimmable to five settings and is lightweight Designed for the crafter’s ultimate comfort, the LEDs are and portable making it an ideal companion to take to classes or continuously dimmable, and the flexible necks will bend to direct when travelling. The twistable shade allows you to direct the light the light precisely where needed. Both are available in a range of actually where you need it and is USB compatible. bright colours to complement your décor. Daylight Company TrinityXtra T: +44 (0)20 8964 1200 T: +44 (0)247 634 4676 E: [email protected] E: [email protected] W: www.daylightcompany.co.uk W: www.trinityxtras.co.uk

craftfocus 87 next issue… Don’t miss the August/September 2016 edition of Craft Focus SEASONAL CELEBRATIONS • Products to stock for Halloween and Christmas • Cash in on the ‘Back to School’ market

DON’T FORGET TO PICK INSPIRATION FOR YARN-LOVERS UP YOUR COPY…. What the new season has to offer Craft Focus is packed full knitters and crocheters of the newest product launches, industry news and business advice from leading experts in the fields of retail, e-commerce and business management.

August/September 2016 (issue 56) STAR BAKERS Editorial deadline: 8th July, 2016 Advertising deadline: 15th July, 2016 Products for those passionate about Published: 31st July, 2016 baking and cake making

88 craftfocus

fabrics focus on fabrics We reveal the latest fabric collection releases

MICHAEL MILLER Bed of Roses Bed of Roses by Michael Miller is a fantastic floral collection of fabrics, made up of one border print piece, a strikingly bold rose design and three complimentary matching designs. The coordinating designs also feature stripes, little birds and ART GALLERY FABRICS pretty lilies. Art Gallery Fabrics has launched its summer/autumn 2016 ranges. As The collection usual they feature bold, imaginative and modern designs that are is available in two very much on trend and printed on the established Pima otton for colourways – Sapphire which they’re renowned, together with their popular knitted jersey is a stunning mix of pink, purple and navy with a sprinkle of green, and canvas. while coral is a striking combination of coral, jade, grey and white. In addition AGF has launched its first certified organic range Hello The fabrics are ideal for creating quilts, dressing gowns or make up Ollie by Bonnie. This new organic range features beautiful prints bags and is now available from EQS. of swans, feathered fellows and garden blooms. Named after Bonnie Christine’s daughter, Ollie, sweetness is brought to life with Tweet La Vie dabbling swans. Michael Miller’s Tweet La Vie fabric line consists of Art Gallery Fabrics are distributed by Hantex three striking feature prints. T: +44 (0)1754 820 800 Tweet La Vie is an intricate E: [email protected] rose design, featuring birds W: www.hantex.co.uk and butterflies. Aliyah is THREADERS a large, bold floral print, Crafter’s Companion has while Jessamina is a just introduced its first fabric contemporary spin on a range called Threaders. The traditional flock print. collection is the first release The collection is in the range and is available beautifully complemented to order now. It features by Michael Miller Classics a selection of pretty floral such as Cotton Couture, and animal prints in bright Fairy Frost and Bud Loop, spring colours, and includes and is available for pre- half-metre, fat quarters order from June. and 36 mini fabric charm packs. With prices starting EQS distributes Michael Miller Collections exclusively for UK from just £5.99 and a variety of colours and designs available, & Ireland there’s something for all sewers. T: +44 (0)116 271 0033 E: [email protected] Crafter’s Companion W: www.eqsuk.com T: +44(0)1388 660 930 E: [email protected] W: www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

craftfocus 91 focus on fabrics

RILEY BLAKE Riley Blake’s latest release When Skies are Grey, is definitely a collection designed with the typical British weather in mind. From raindrops, umbrellas and clouds, the collection depicts the daily weather struggle we Brits experience. The feature prints are complemented with stars, checks and an uplifting ‘You Make Me Happy’ wording print. The full collection is available in pink, blue and black, with particular patterns finished with a touch of gold sparkle. The CLOUD9 collection is available for pre-order from EQS for delivery in Cloud9 has just introduced its new fabric ranges for the balance of the November and December. year. Flannel and brushed cottons are making a comeback with the company launching a wonderful collection of 13 organic printed flannel EQS distributes Riley Blake Collections exclusively for fabrics that are ideal for quilting, clothing such as pyjamas and home UK & Ireland décor like throws. The prints feature fun designs such as elephants, T: +44 (0)116 271 0033 swans, flowers along with a good selection of matching plain solids. E: [email protected] Another fabric collection to look out for is Sidewalk by Rae Hoekstra, W: www.eqsuk.comq which is a range of organic knitted jersey fabrics aimed at children with pencil, shoe, dogs, bugs, flamingoes and bus designs that children will love. Visit the Hantex website to view the rest of the collections from Cloud9.

Cloud9 fabrics are distributed by Hantex T: +44 (0)1754 820 800 E: [email protected] W: www.hantex.co.uk

ITS Textile Traders ITS Textile Traders has a new range of print denim cottons that are proving very popular. At a retail price of £2.95 per metre and 100 per cent cotton, the range is a perfect dressmaking weight and is a must-have for summer trends. Get in touch quickly as these are limited in stock.

ITS Textile Traders T: +44 (0)1745 562 100 E: [email protected] W: www.its-sales.co.uk

92 craftfocus focus on fabrics

A FABRIC STALL – LOVELY LACES YOUR OWN MATERIAL WORLD Michael’s Bridal Fabrics has added to its extensive range, some less If you’re passionate about paisley or can wax lyrical about expensive laces in an array of colours. This includes popular laces such lawn-cloth, you might like to consider boostin business and as simple all-over designs like the classical English Rose and designs in running a haberdashery stall. Fashion trends may come and go, corded lace. Some of the most popular colours have been dusky rose, but our nation’s love of fabulous fabrics remains strong. coral, silver and stronger colours like teal, plum and navy. The corded Many of today’s famous retailers, including Monsoon and designs are complemented with a range of matching motifs and Marks & Spencer, started out on market stalls. Trading in a market edgings. The colour combinations also coordinate with most popular has many advantages, as the estimated 40,000 market traders of the Duchess satin and chiffon colours. One of the most promising currently in the UK* know well: up and coming new colours is shell pink, which the company will be • Market trading has low entry costs, and is therefore a low- adding in its lace selection shortly. risk route to customers. • You’re your own boss, with all the satisfaction that brings. Michael’s Bridal Fabrics • Trading within a well-managed market means you benefit T: +44 0)1322 380 480 from additional support including marketing, and training E: [email protected] opportunities. W: www.michaelsbridalfabrics.net • Your fellow traders will start to become like a second family. • Customers can benefit from a level of personal service and expert advice they wouldn’t find on the High Street. Town and Country Markets are looking for new fabric traders in many of its markets, particularly Leeds (Morley), Wellington and Watford. You don’t need previous experience, and there are flexible unit sizes, rates and license periods. For more information visit www.townandcountrymarkets.co.uk.

* Based on 2009 study by NABMA (National Association of British Market Authorities)

94 craftfocus Seasonal Special Buys Luxury Faux Furs

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[email protected] www.michaelsbridalfabrics.co.uk appliglue wholesale, retail,exportandown brand packagingavailable visit applicraft.co.uk forinspiration andideas www.applicraft.co.uk rnfrlz crackleglaze transferglaze craquelure great results from quality products from dollshousefurnituretomansion murals fun &easytouseonvirtuallyany surface used bybothprofessionals&hobbyists craft packs great forupcyclingoldpieces textile foils decoupage craquelure decoupage ȴQLVK

applicraft tried & tested 97 C craftfocus

Shake the pen well and push it down Shake simply wipe off a mistake, If you make TIPS FOR DRAWING ON CERAMICS ON CERAMICS DRAWING FOR TIPS is of ceramic your choice sure • Make of dust. and free clean a like start to project • Choose an easy or bowl. mug, plate your design on a piece drawing • Practice skills are first. If your drawings of paper mine, select a simple design like limited with. start to a design by tracing transfer could • You it. overly Basic designs that aren’t amazing. look can complicated • • on a piece of paper to check it’s releasing releasing check it’s to of paper on a piece evenly. paint wipe, dry again. with a baby and draw In a recent poll, 86 per cent of our readers of our readers poll, 86 per cent In a recent us they know told would find it beneficial to the to about new as they products come will put the latest & Tested Tried market. Julie Contact their paces. through products if you E: [email protected], Bonnar, feature. to have a product T: +44 (0)1756 700 024 E: [email protected] W: www.woodware.co.uk Woodware Dandelion design mug REASONS TO STOCK REASONS TO and is an crazes one of the latest • It’s All sorts of customers craft. to inexpensive way to homemakers from have a go, to will want fans. adult colouring with 125 • The point of sale display comes of £230. pens at an introductory price at £1.95. is also available • Open stock them and they’re xylene-free. I used the fine them and they’re xylene-free. in 2.0mm. nib 1.0mm, but they also come and oddly well on large They really work on adhesion good and there’s shaped items, and glass, making ceramics non heat-resistant to want who crafters for choice them a great involved in this trend. get “

involved with.

craft for all the family to get get to family for all the craft

The pens are water-based, so if you make so if you make water-based, The pens are other pens from them different What makes ceramics is. And with summer ceramics to see how popular drawing on see how popular drawing to You only have to look on Pinterest look on Pinterest only have to You HOW TO USE IT USE TO HOW to easy really pens are Ceramglass Touch Pen quality archival rich opaque use and produce use, washable, to is safe which colours, paint making it resistant and fade safe dishwasher and cups. bowls, plates decorating for perfect I used when odours any strong weren’t There Julie Bonnar puts the new Pen Julie Bonnar puts the new Pen pen from Ceramglass Touch its paces through Sakura mark creative creative Sakura Pen-touch Ceramglass pens are the pens are Ceramglass Pen-touch Sakura by distributed and are marker, creative latest pens have been The water-based Woodware. work on a number of surfaces designed to Once and ceramic. including glass, porcelain safe. and dishwasher dry, they’re colourfast 12 your design up to remove you can mistakes permanent. they become before hours them. The pens cure to is they need no baking including red, colours in eight vibrant come and black, blue, yellow, orange purple, green, in two nib widths of available and are white, good 1mm (fine) and 2mm (medium). There’s and ceramics adhesion on non heat-resistant crafters for choice glass, making them a great involved in this trend. get to who want THE PRODUCT

holidays on the horizon, it’s a great a great it’s holidays on the horizon, “ The Scottish Hobby & Craft Trade Show 11th & 12th September 2016 The Marriott Hotel, Glasgow Road Edinburgh

Introducing to the exhibition TV craft expert Clare Charvill who will be giving workshop classes

for all enquiries if you wish to exhibit please contact Yvonne on 07770 870093 or by Email [email protected] ask the experts 99 craftfocus Here you’ll find a wealth of of you’ll find a wealth Here www.worldliterarycafe.com/ ALISTAIR MACDONALD, MACDONALD, ALISTAIR OF ALISTAIR HOUSE www.houseofalistair.com St at Central fashion design studying After my own business I started Martins in London well as my work in As ago. seven years for on costume I’ve worked fashion ladieswear ‘Kingsman’ and The Woods’, films such as ‘Into five books. A love ’Dark Shadows’ and written design and create my imagination to fuelled has of Liberty fabric has of haberdashery gifts. House of Alistair and products a range 2009 with our since in London been designing and manufacturing a wide range in the East End. We hand make workshops located Liberty Art and gifts using of original haberdashery consumables be British. to proud We’re fabrics. “I run sewing workshops in my shop, and someone has and someone in my shop, workshops “I run sewing writing books on the subject. Do I consider that suggested about this?” go to about how any advice have you choose the right publisher that give is to I can The best advice right. you and feels Everyworks for offer publisher has a different which may or may not suit you. Not all publishers and signature, distribution network print works in every have a vast or genre the Do your homework your books out there. and read get to an you sign. Most publishing houses offer before contracts get every for sold. To copy and then royalties payment advance which Toolbox’, using ‘Authors I would suggest help and advice this link: find by following you can content/author-resource-toolbox. houses and other authors. publishing about editors, information you’ll need approach, to who you want you’ve pinpointed Once the book, for up with a synopsis that includes a concept come to and how the book is going with examples 3-5 projects at least look.to see what they to ‘ll be commissioning. A publishing house likes things. In to change Don’t be put off if the publisher asks you which or wording, do with the subject matter this is to most cases, in to be printed if the book were to translate might be difficult you here, From using names or localisms. Avoid another language. – if a positive outcome for and wait, hopefully sit back just have to not try feedback. for ask another house and always Leading experts in the industry help with retailing in the industry experts Leading help with retailing dilemmas and crafting to e nu

Social media has to be social – it’s all about helping one be social – it’s Social media has to media elements the social I don’t mean tools, to When referring “How do I raise the profile of my shop without spending of the profile do I raise “How on advertising?” money about more I’m learning question and something This is a great – social categories two broad down to every me, it comes For day. and tools. shop is running a another out on social media. If another local then alongside yours that works well on a product promotion This works together? and partner why not double your audience one or shops close to those with online stores well for incredibly for resource an invaluable are and customers Friends another. Being generous help build up your audience. and can information and free, of advertising for is a way and retweets shares with likes, is a cornerstone promotion network. Reciprocal that helps you to your profile. raise to if you want of any social media campaign account, have a Twitter you should already themselves. Of course, looking recommend channel but I’d and YouTube page Facebook utilities free are as well. The tools at Snapchat and Instagram the quality of your social media posts. The raise that help you to quickly that video and images quite have learnt accounts biggest desktop for one do well. My favourite posts to essential for are templates it gives you thousands of free Canva; is called browsers go to looking images professional create you to for and ideas posts. or Facebook along with your tweets I started my craft working life in 1994 working life my craft I started and worked Crafts with Impex Creative to the company up through my way 3i to report to Director Commercial to I then went on the purchase. after work at W Williams & Son in 2007 until up Creative it closed. In 2010, I set to continue to Distribution as I wanted Products by market the UK Craft to and bring innovation creativity inspire for profitability exceptional that offered quality products offering the retailers. MARK WILSON MBA, CREATIVE MBA, CREATIVE MARK WILSON DISTRIBUTION PRODUCT www.creative-distribution.co.uk ask the experts the ask GRAEME WRIGHT, EQS www.eqsuk.com CHRIS SHERRARD, After graduating, Graeme joined the DMC CREATIVE WORLD management training scheme at Coats www.dmccreative.co.uk Patons. His training took him around the As Marketing Manager leading DMC’s UK before spending a year in Barcelona. marketing team for Northern Europe, From there, his career took him to Chris is keen to reach beyond the craft South America, back to Spain, U.S.A., community by introducing exciting Nottingham and Redditch. He’s served new products which give art lovers, on various international marketing fashionistas and design-savvy home committees for the group. Since 1996 he became joint owner and owners new outlets for their creativity. Managing Director of EQS Ltd, a company specialising in the full- line distribution of patchwork and quilting products from threads “Many of my customers are crocheters. What are the to fabrics and notions to wadding. He’s also a director of CHA UK current crochet trends and what sort of products should and Council member of Quilts, Inc. of Houston. I stock?” “Alongside fabrics specifically-designed for quilters, what At DMC, we’ve been talking about the resurgence of crochet for other products should I be stocking to appeal to years. We’ve watched high-end fashion brands bring crochet to this market?” the catwalk and homeware designers get in on the act too. I see There’s more to a quilt shop than fabric. At EQS, we say that fabric the resurgence of crochet and tapestry, alongside more mindful is bought with the heart and notions with the head. In case you lifestyles, as a huge opportunity for our industry. don’t know, notions is the term used in quilting for haberdashery This season, we’re delighted that crochet has hit the high products. By that we mean that it’s easy to get carried away when street in an explosion of styles from full on hippy chic to presented with a range of beautiful designs but the nuts and bolts sophisticated embellishment. We’ve interpreted these trends of quilting require a more dispassionate approach to buying. in patterns, so it’s a really great time for customers who can According to recent research in America, up to 30 per cent of the crochet or want to learn. The easiest way into crochet fashion is sales value in quilt shops is in non-fabric lines. That’s a lot of sales! with styles for holidays and festivals, where crochet has always Depending on the size of your shop and what your speciality is, been a staple. We’re not yet convinced by crochet bikinis but you may stock a wider or narrower range to go with your fabrics DMC’s patterns for a beach to bar cover-up and cute crochet but bear in mind that whatever sales value you achieve in fabrics, dress, both in DK Natura Medium, will be equally at home you could add up to 50 per cent more by offering a good range of at Coachella or the coast. Our patterns for crochet tops also notions, threads and waddings. include a festival-friendly tasselled waistcoat as well as a neat Of course, a number of traditional haberdashery items are used collared vest in 4-ply Natura, which can be worn city-smart with in quilting such as needles, scissors, thimbles etc. However, a cropped trousers and ballet flats or holiday-happy with denim credible selection for quilting includes some specialist products shorts and sandals. such as rotary cutters and mats, marking tools, a wide range of We’ve responded to the crochet community’s demands for rulers. In addition, there are needles and threads that are essential more patterns for the handmade home too – the chunkier the for quilting but perhaps not sewing. better. Outside is the new inside, at least on sunny days, so Finally, the unsung hero of a successful quilt is wadding (or DMC has introduced patterns for cushions and throws that will batting as it’s sometimes known). There’s a wide range of different effortlessly travel from bedroom to sunroom to sun lounger, as fibres and presentations to choose from although the favourites well as bags to carry a good book and sunscreen. And bright, are always cotton, cotton/poly, polyester and, more recently, beach-themed Natura XL patterns, in zingy new yummy shades, bamboo/cotton blend. If you’re tight for space in your shop, offer a quirky take on the nautical stripes that seem to be you can buy waddings on 7.5m lengths and presented on fabric everywhere. boards, ideal for putting on your shelves and easy to cut. For more We know that some crocheters diligently follow the pattern information on which wadding to choose visit: www.eqsuk.com/ right down to the yarn shade, but with so many gorgeous news/trade/which-wadding-to-use-for-your-quilting-project-/86. Natura shades, DMC wants to encourage them to choose their In reality, note 30 per cent of the value you have in the shop will favourite. Shops can help by making suggestions in-store or be non-fabrics but when planning what to stock, don’t forget the by knitting swatches or whole garments in alternative colours humble notions, threads and waddings. They also make great up- to give them confidence. Then stock-up on cool 100 per cent sells at the till. Ignore them and you could well be missing out. cotton crochet yarns to inspire them.

100 craftfocus celebrating 5 years of craft distribution Craft Focus catches up with Karen Morris, Craft TV guest presenter and sales director at That’s Original

Tell us how That’s Original’s became a colours, which are unlike other products craft distributor. – its products are permanent and don’t We started the business in May 2010 require heat setting. launching into the UK market with fashion Aleene’s craft glue is the number one hair colours and cosmetic paints. Both the craft glue in the US and includes the Splat and Streekers brands are still doing well world’s original tacky glue. Aleene has and we’re launching Tattoo Junkee from Los a glue format for every craft task from Angeles alongside them. It all really took off papercrafting, fabric and haberdashery to when we became the exclusive distributor jewellery making. for iLoveToCreate.com about five years ago. Sugar Artists’ Aerosol Acrylics are iLovetoCreate has amazing brands such as a perfect choice for just about any Tulip, Aleene’s and Scribbles. craft surface and project. The aerosol At the time, the Tulip brand was known in propellant is made from sugar cane, and the UK, but sales were falling and the brand as such the paint has a lower VOC rating decided it needed an injection of enthusiasm than traditional aerosols. and energy. Today, Tulip is well respected Ironlak Acrylic Aerosols are the world’s within the industry for its fabric colours, leading graffiti paint brand. They’re from dyes and markers to paints, glitters weather-resistant so ideal for DIY, the and stencils. garden and projects for the home. We’re really passionate about retail and seek to partner with and support our Working with some of the biggest customers by working with independent names in craft retail, what can you offer Do you have any news to share? retailers and wholesalers, as well as national independent retailers? We’re delighted to have been appointed as chains and e-commerce stores across the As a small family business, we’re passionate UK distributor for Sculpey. Sculpey’s polymer UK and Europe. Most recently we’ve added about finding exciting and innovative clay is already a popular choice with jewellery new customers based in Eastern Europe and craft products from around the world and makers, and we’re so excited to build and the Middle East. We’re really quite proud to presenting them to independent retailers in maximise creativity in clay. To find out more represent the UK craft industry. the UK. visit www.sculpey.com. If you have an art, craft or haberdashery Craft TV is an exciting new launch for the What products can you offer shop or cake decorating store, we’re here company, and we’re currently developing craft retailers? to help you grow your business and help exciting demonstrations for Tulip, Aleene’s, Out motto is ‘fuel your creativity’ and our you provide products that your customers Sculpey and Sugar Veil. products/brands do just that. As mentioned, will want to buy. We can offer very small Promoting the UK craft industry throughout Tulip can offer a complete package of fabric minimum orders (MOQs) on all our products Europe is also important to us, and we hope and a low carriage paid to continue exporting in the next 12 months, order as we want retailers and doing more in Germany, Italy and Spain. C to order regularly and sell more. All our ranges are in stock so most orders leave us within 24 to 48 hours of the order being placed. As well as great products, we can help with inspiration and have a series of project sheets. We’re also happy to set That’s Original Ltd up demonstrations at T: +44 (0) 2381 159 093 your store. E: [email protected]

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SPRING IS AROUND THE CORNER 25/01/2016 12:46 Discover products for Easter and Mother’s Day craftfocus 103 collage crazy Collaging is the next big thing for crafters – we look at a few of the product offerings that early adopters will love

WHAT IS COLLAGING? The term Collage comes from the French word coller, which means to glue. Collage is a way of making pictures from a diverse range of materials such as coloured paper, newspaper, magazines, package labels, fabric, paint, COLLAGE CARNIVAL photographs and printed designs, and Price: £12.99 combining them into one composition. ISBN: 9781849943086 Collage can be used in all sorts of crafts Published by Batsford, an imprint of Pavilion Books, www. such as card making, scrapbooking, wall pavilionbooks.com

art, and home décor. The world is your oyster with Collage Carnival by Lizze Lees as it’s full of quirky papers and pullout designs to create fun artwork and collage. WE CHAT TO ITS AUTHOR LIZZIE LEES Customise, embellish, draw and design with the individual pages with ABOUT THE TREND: whatever takes your fancy. Use it as a scrapbook and pin your favourite “Why do you think holiday photos in or use the pullout pages to create foldable cards and crafters like patterned projects. The book actively encourages you to rip out pages, stick and fold. designs and why has there been a sudden “I solemnly declare to attack this book with wild creativity trend for collage?” and set my heart free. I will not be scared! I will embrace! I I personally love patterned will create! At the end of the book, there will be no book!” papers as I think they bring a joyful energy to any design work. Patterned papers can be used to add texture and shade, but they can also add a fun conversational element, which can transform a craft project instantly. A polka spot can add a touch of ’50s countryside charm or a bright zagzag can instantly give a design a quirky ’80s edge. The possibilities are endless. Collage has a timeless appeal, and you only need some paper, glue and scissors to get creative. I think it’s so important for people to have a break from the fast paced modern environments that we operate in. The simple craft of collage gives an uplifting escape that’s accessible to everyone, and the results can be so varied. It allows for great personal creative expression and it’s the perfect antidote to a stressful day.

We say: “Tear it, stick it, draw all over it! The book is there to do whatever you wish with it, it’s the perfect way to let your creativity run wild.” 104 craftfocus collage

COLLAGE CARDS Hunkydory Crafts has just brought out a new Collage-a-Card collection to help crafters bring their card making to life. With a collection for him, and one for her, the kits are the perfect fit for those who love collage. This is a totally fresh idea that will help you create a wealth of different dimensional cards. Each kit contains 24 cards, comprising 12 different designs that are easy to put together. For him, there’s everything from sports kits to chessboards, and for her, there’s the sweetest dolls houses, lovely dresses and more. The Collage-a-Card for him & Collage-a- Card for her collections retail at £24.99 each or bought together for £39.99, and individual sets start at £2.99. For more information visit trade. hunkydorycrafts.co.ukyc .

GEM UP ON GLUE Glue is the key ingredient for collage and Creative Products Distribution has an extensive range of glues and knowledge to help with most crafty tasks including collage. The company recommends several glues that are perfect for collaging:

BEACON ZIP DRY Zip Dry is a premium paper glue with archival quality, and is one of the best-selling glues in the scrapbooking market in the US. It dries clear, flexible, is very fast drying and doesn’t bleed through. This glue will also wipe off the project when wet with a clean finger. The bottle comes with a fine applicator nozzle and the glue will work on paper as well as glitter board. Its acid and lignin free and is perfect for scrapbooks, photo albums, cards, and paper. The adhesive won’t wrinkle even on tissue and vellum but it’s strong enough to bond metal, wire, glitter, beads and buttons.

BEACON 3-IN-1 This advanced craft glue comes in a value 118ml bottle and has the qualities that you’d expect from a good glue such as fast-drying, no bleed, fine nozzle for applying, solvent-based and an instant grab. 3in1 glue will dry crystal clear and when not in use has a special replacement cap to stop it from drying out, but its USP is that the glue allows crafters ‘wiggle’ time unlike other glue brands. This means that there’s plenty of time to be re-position your design before the glue dries, making it a popular choice with card makers, gift box makers, fancy cutting machine users and collage makers.

ODIF SPRAY GLUES Spray glue is a perfect choice for those new to craft and are easy to control and direct. Odif Sprays has two glues that are ideal for the collage market. 303 Permanent Spray comes in a 250ml can and does what it says on the tin – provides a permanent fast-drying bond as it ideal for larger projects. While 404 Prepositional Spray turns paper into a sticky note, and is great for laying out your project to check how it looks before actually sticking down.

Beacon and Odif products are distributed by Creative Products Distribution T: +44 (0)20 8953 2143 E: [email protected] W: www.creative-distribution.co.uk

craftfocus 105 up & coming sew me something Julie Bonnar chats to Jules Fallon, designer and owner behind the brand Sew Me Something How did you get started in the fortunately 18 months in, we were able to What has been sewing business? make it happen. the most popular I’ve been sewing for as long as I can We did a lot of research about patterns, pattern you’ve remember. In fact, I can’t remember a time particularly talking to our workshop designed so far? when I didn’t know how to sew. My mum and customers to find out what they looked for By far, the most my grandmother taught me how to make in a dressmaking pattern. A good design popular pattern has dolls’ clothes for my Sindy doll, and I suppose isn’t enough. We found that the paper and been the Beatrice it all sprang from there. I decided from an packaging were also crucial factors, but pinafore, although early age that I wanted to be a designer and most important of all, for our customers, the all of the dress had my first Saturday job in C&H Fabrics in instructions were imperative too. We take patterns especially Tunbridge Wells. From there, I worked with a great deal of time and care to devise the the Viola skirt does a local bridal designer before going to Art pattern instructions, and make them as easy very well. But I think the Helena dress could College as a mature student to get my degree. to follow as possible. be catching Beatrice up very soon. Most of our patterns initially were aimed at Tell us a bit about the business, how did beginner sewers, but we’ve tried to introduce Where can retailers see your products? it all begin? new processes and different ways of sewing a We welcome retailers to come to our store I’d been working as a fashion lecturer for particular technique in our latest patterns. in Stratford upon Avon, and the pattern a number of years, and was getting pretty The pattern styles are simple for those just range can be found on our website www. bored with the politics of teaching in a large starting on the sewing journey, but they can sewmesomething.co.uk/emporium/patterns. organisation when a colleague mentioned also be adapted and altered easily for those an article about a sewing café in Paris. The that prefer to set themselves a challenge. Are you developing new patterns for idea just struck a chord, and I knew that the market? was what I wanted to do. I trialled the idea Oh yes! We’ve another few patterns in various initially to see if there was a market locally for stages of production, some at the testing sewing classes and soon we were looking stage, some still trialling, and a couple waiting for premises. for release. It takes quite a while to make sure a pattern is ready, and to make sure the How did the Sew Me Something brand of instruction booklet is as easy to follow as sewing patterns first come about, and who possible. I still find it very exciting when I see are they aimed at? the patterns rolling off the printer! C When writing the business plan for Sew Me Something the concept of producing our own patterns was there from the beginning. And

Tell us about the pattern range, and how can retailers buy stock of them? We started with three patterns initially, the Kate shift dress, Beatrice pinafore and the Viola skirt with the idea that you could make your own handmade wardrobe. We’re gradually building the range, which now includes trousers and jersey wear. Sew Me Something All retailers have to do is contact us, T: +44 (0)7956 509 394 and we can send them details on our E: [email protected] All Photography by Charles Budd wholesale prices. W: www.sewmesomething.co.uk

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