£3.50 ISSUE 144 DECEMBER 2019 www.craftbusiness.com

STABILOCraft front cover_CRAFT BIZ 05/11/2019 10:58 Page 1 Business The leading trade title for the craft industry

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Going green – who influences An ideal Game over for you? woman? unicorns? P18 P23 P29 2 NEWS

International award for Crafter’s Companion z Crafter’s Companion has won an international award at the Welcome largest trade event for the quilting, textile and soft crafts industry. z Mark Hayhurst z @craftbiz The company was named as the Best Notions and Tools z [email protected] Booth at the International Quilt Market in Houston, one of just six awards presented on the day. z Is that Jingle Bells I can hear? Well Christmas is just around The International Quilt Market is in its 40th year. It features the corner. more than 1,000 vendors offering materials such as quilting I hope everyone is ready for, what I hope is, a busy festive period. supplies, fabrics, decorative crafts, patterns, tools and sewing We have tips in this edition on how to stand out at a Christmas fair – machines. This is the third time that Crafter’s Companion has one tip I have is wrap up warm because it looks like it’s going to get a exhibited at the wholesale trade show. bit chilly! Crafter’s Companion has established a number of brands And I know most of us haven’t finished our Christmas shopping within the soft crafts market. The company exhibited at the yet but we are already looking ahead to 2020. show to display its range of popular Gemini multimedia dies and A lot of you will be heading out to Creativeworld and Paperworld in die-cutting machines, in addition to its Threaders range of core January and we have previews of what you can expect from the tools, which can be used in a wide variety of textile projects. Frankfurt trade shows. Sunny Pahal, Head of Business Development at Crafter’s Also, Adam Newhouse, Director of Hunkydory Crafts, takes a look Companion, said: “Throughout the past few years, we have at the trends he expects to be big in 2020. worked extremely hard to bring customers and trade partners And Jayme Wium, a digital marketer for SME Loans, specialising in the most innovative ranges using cutting-edge technology, along the areas of technology and finances, offers her advice on how to with useful, essential tools and beautiful fabrics. boost your business going forward. “This is only our third time exhibiting at the International Quilt I hope you enjoy reading this issue of Craft Business! Market show so to be recognised as Best Notions and Tools booth among so many brilliant vendors is a fantastic achievement. We are truly, very proud and excited to see Crafter’s Companion’s Jennifer Tryon everyone at next year’s event.” with the award ON THE RECORD “I get to meet CREATE IT SOUTH EAST IS COMING TO FARNBOROUGH z A brand new craft this new modern exhibition offer a very special limited so many show is coming to centre. We welcome exhibitors number of VIP tickets. We are amazing Farnborough in 2020. representing all crafts from far also bringing this experience Create It Events, and wide to one of the most to Farnborough. These will people, it’s a in partnership with exciting shows of the year. be available in strict numbers Create and Craft TV, “There will be lots of on a first come, first served real privilege” will be bringing it’s hands on experiences for the basis. VIP guests will have highly successful craft crafting public and hopefully their own comfortable lounge MARION EMBERSON show format, Create it the chance to learn a new away from the show with a South East 2020, to the craft from one of the many view over Farnborough airport. Farnborough Event Centre experts. We are pleased to be “We fully expect to on February 21-22 and in partnership with Create and attract around 70 plus again on September 18-19. Craft TV and their presence exhibitors to the show with Create It Events Ltd will be sure to add to the fun approximately 10,000 visitors.” was started in 2016 and excitement of the show.” with the aim of creating Create It Events also SHOW DATES: a more hands on and run Create It North East, z Create it South East interactive crafting in Gateshead, and Create 2020: February 21-22, experience for the public. It Kent, in Maidstone. September 18-19 Gordon Fraser, Gordon added: “We are about z Create it Kent 2020: Managing Director Create to start offering tickets for the May 15-16 It Events Ltd, said: “We are Farnborough event right away z Create it North East 2020: beyond excited to be able and if people are quick they can April 26 and September 12 to bring our successful grab special advance tickets at Creativeworld 2020 For more information head Create It format to a reduced price. At Kent, we also to www.createitevents.com 12 A preview of what will be on offer in Frankfurt Premier Stationery partners National Stationery Week 2020 z Premier Stationery has signed up as a partner for National Stationery Week 2020. Premier Stationery traces it heritage back to Ireland and the 1970s, establishing itself as Ireland’s leading Stationery Company, offering innovation, quality and a diverse range of products for all ages and applications. Popping Up All Over The In 2015, Premier Stationery expanded its World! operations and opened its UK Division, which mediums, colouring and drawing books and an 30 extensive range of craft items. Cardology’s Dipa Shah talks about has grown from strength to strength, becoming a main supplier to many key customers within Recent additions include Icon Craft for hobby their showstopping creations the UK market. enthusiasts, Student Solutions which is targeted at The family-run business has developed what Academic audiences, Pro:Form an extensive range have now become long standing favourite of labelling and printing solutions and Stik-ie brands such as Crafty Bitz, a range of art and which has a range of adhesive tapes, sticky notes craft projects for kids, Clever Kidz, which and glues. includes a variety of teaching aids that make Jo Proctor, Sales and Marketing Manager, said: learning fun, Premier Activity, Concept, a “We have a clear and continued development plan Professional Office Range and Premier Office for for the distribution of our products in the UK and we all stationery requirements; from staplers to see National Stationery Week as the perfect pens, bubble wrap to index dividers and more. platform to further enhance our standing within the Other hugely successful brands include Icon, stationery, craft and education industries.” Five ways to stand out at a an elite artists collection including an extensive Also, a whole host of companies have offered 34 Christmas market range of art materials for both professional and their support to National Stationery Week as Tips to catch the eye this festive season

In this issue recreational artists. sponsors including Maped Helix, Moleskine, uni-ball, World of Colour is aimed at a younger Manuscript Pen Company, Staples UK, A.T. Cross, audience and incorporates drawing and painting Derwent and Marple Stationery Supplies.

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Sharon Callis Crafts introduce Arts ‘n Flowers Entrepreneur z Sharon Callis Crafts introduce Arts ‘n Flowers, value as you will now to launch new the new name for Florartistry dies. not only be able to buy Florartistry was introduced to the market in 2016 following the core flower dies retail platform Sharon’s presentation to the ‘Creative Dragon’s’ panel at the AFCI themselves but the Creative Exchanges event and has gone on to achieve sell-out stamen, foliage, and z Makers Retail shows on Create and Craft and success in the retail sector. calyx dies all together in Sharon said: “Following partnership changes and a revision the one package for the Limited, founded by of the brand direction a rebranding was necessary to better first time. New product entrepreneur Tony represent the forward vision of the collections. Arts ‘n Flowers being added to the brand Sheridan, has announced will have a broader design base and allow us to expand beyond include stamp and die sets, the upcoming launch of floral dies and add new concepts and products to the brand paper pads, dies for matting its new retail business, portfolio. I am excited about the new direction we are taking.” and layering, sentiments, decorative elements, nesting dies, tools and MakersSuperstore.com. Crafters will still be able to continue with their product many more exciting additions to take your crafting to the next level. The proposition, which collections as the core product itself will remain the same, Products will be available through Personal Impressions (Trade), will be fully rolled out early ensuring continued quality, versatility and inspiring collections. and for retail customers, you will find them at Crafter’s Companion, 2020, promises to bring However, they have made some exciting changes to how they Create and Craft, Amazon and more buying options to be announced innovative product and present these collections. New releases will now offer even greater very soon. creative connectivity digitally, in-store and throughout the Maker communities. MakersSuperstore. com will not only be an Ideal Shopping Direct e-commerce proposition, it’s innovation will extend to the high street driving goes from £32m loss to connectivity to Makers in the heart of local communities. an expected £5m profit Tony Sheridan said: “Let me start with our company vision, ‘By Delivering z The new CEO of one of of its main Ideal World brand. Innovation, Be The Facilitator This has all happened alongside Of Creativity And Pride’. the world’s largest multi- a transition to broadcasting This is important to us, channel home selling in High Definition quality. retailers and Makers alike retailers has hailed a The new management has have told me that there is a revival in the company’s also worked hard to increase lack of innovation in product fortunes just one trading the quality of its flagship Ideal development whether that year after it made a loss World channel by changing the is the product itself, the of £32m [Jan-Dec 18]. on-screen product information curated offer or the creative Jamie Martin (pictured), overlays and rebranding inspiration that is specific who took over at Ideal set designs, VTs and social to the product. However, Shopping Direct in December, media. The company has also the Makers out there are has revealed expected benefited from strong growth hungry for new challenges. results for January to in its sales in America, which “We are working December 2019 will show have risen by 40 per cent. with brands and product a fast recovery to a £5m Jamie Martin, CEO, said: “This innovators to facilitate that profit and a 6.5 per cent rise is the biggest turnaround in live connection to the Maker, in average gross margins. home shopping history. It has enabling a full understanding Jamie Martin has played been a year of significant change, of use to fulfil the product a central role in the return to experimentation and learning experience, not just at profitability over the past nine while laying the groundwork for crafters generally buy products web. It is a business dedicated the time of purchase but months, along with new COO the future. Average order value in frequencies ranging from to educating consumers afterwards too. We want Martin Purcell, who joined and order frequency is up on last three to eight times a month. through clear and engaging the Maker to fulfil their at the same time. Following year and all other metrics have Given traditional video content, delivering creative desire and that nine months of hard work begun to plateau bucking the broadcasting demographics exclusive deals, sourcing quality immeasurable feeling of to turn the business around, previous aggressive downward are mainly those aged 50 plus, products and providing market- pride in the end result, which the expected 12-month trend before I joined the business. the channel has aggressively leading customer service.” in turn drives engagement. results are now looking “It’s a simple story of sales embraced social media to ISD has also seen a “As a team we are excited extremely healthy with up and costs down. We made future-proof the business younger audience emerge about the initial brands and total pre-tax turnover tough choices to reduce our by targeting the 25-34 year across its business, thanks to innovators that have bought forecast to be £170m. workforce by 110 people and age bracket across Pinterest, its focus on digital channels. It into our vision, showcasing Peterborough-based negotiated new and better deals YouTube and Instagram. Web is now trialling online streams exciting product with relevant ISD – whose two main with suppliers. The business has sessions for C&C in this age with exclusive content and education throughout the channels are Ideal World and also streamlined various aspects group grew by over 200 per making further investments Maker journey and having Create and Craft - sells into such as changing the way we cent versus the same period into digital for other emerging the platform as the hub for 31m homes in the UK via source in China, cancelling in 2018, with a dwell time, video platforms served our virtual and in-community shopping channels on Sky, marketing programmes that transactions, conversion rate by new-style content. proposition that will really Freeview, Virgin and late- were not working and spending and revenue also positive YoY. Jamie Martin added: “The close the circle bringing night ITV, plus 35m homes more money on our digital Jamie Martin believes the immediate focus when we took the product owners, stores, in America and on its own marketing, all of which have growth in people working from over in December 2018 was to Makers and community websites. Between them had a material impact on our home (27 per cent in the last ‘stem the bleeding’ and stop the groups together like never the two channels have more profitability for the better.” decade according to the TUC) freefall of customers, revenue before, all under our pledge than one million customers. In recent months, Create has given ISD a clear path to an and profitability. Now this has of first class service. We Since taking over and Craft has seen a significant increasingly successful future. been achieved and things are will roll out our platform at the helm, Jamie and rise in popularity. Own brand He said: “Given today’s stable, the company will be proposition over the Martin have overseen a Margins have increased by 23 per connected world, advances making further investments coming months, exciting number of key changes and cent, with the channel attracting in technology and the fiercely into innovation, acquisition and fun times ahead.” developments including a 14,500 new UK customers so competitive world of retail, and retention in a bid to As part of technology investment of far in 2019. Average spend is consumers have come to aggressively narrow the gap to the proposition, £4m, the recruitment of new up by 3.6 per cent per customer expect an ‘anytime, anyhow, our biggest competitor, QVC UK, MakersSuperstore.com suppliers for its two main and this has been fuelled by anywhere’ shopping experience. which is around twice our size. will work with independent channels, the streamlining the launch of hundreds of new “Ideal Shopping Direct is ISD’s core USP is demonstrating stores to bring the product to of its operations, a new products, including from brands no longer just a TV Shopping the products available for life through ‘Maker Meet- partnership with ITV, growth like Dragon’s Den star Sara Channel, it has now pivoted sale with presenters who ups‘ engaging the local of its American distribution Davies Crafter’s Companion into a Pure Play offering for bring a personality to the ‘sale’ communities and driving channels and an overhaul and Tonic Studios. Its loyal customers discovering us via the that our customers love.” much needed revenues to the independents.

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Retail deal signed with The Range

z Leading arts and for Craft Buddy following their crafts manufacturer and license signings with Anne Stokes distributor, Craft Buddy and Animal Club International, Ltd, has signed a new retail as well as their expansion into deal with multi-channel new markets with distribution retailer, The Range. deals across Europe, Australia The new deal sees Craft and the United States. The deal Buddy’s Crystal Art brand with the Range is a testament to rolling out across 100 stores their increased development in from mid-October. Listings the UK and focus on delivering include the popular Crystal a unique product offering at Art Kits and The Good Toy competitive price points. for offering a wide-array of Guide Recommended Crystal Gary Wadhwani, co-founder products and strong brands, Art Cards, in anticipation of Craft Buddy, said “Being so it’s fantastic that the buyers of the Q4 demand for selected by The Range is a major have seen the uniqueness seasonal craft lines. coup for us and something that and value in our products The news caps off what we have worked hard to achieve. and have listed us in time for Ellison partner with has been a stellar year The stores are well-known the busy festive season.” Create and Craft z Create and Craft, the award winning multi-channel craft Licensing Awards success for retailer, has entered a partnership with Ellison, the innovators of the first consumer die cutting machine. Sizzix, launched by Ellison in 2001, is now a globally recognised UK Greetings brand that caters specifically to the creative consumer market in over 100 countries, and will further expand Create and Craft’s z UK Greetings took home the ‘Best Licensed growing digital presence in the craft market. Incorporating Paper Products or Stationary Range’ award the world-renowned brand into their existing content strategy, at the prestigious 2019 Licensing Awards. multi-channel retailer, Create and Craft, look forward to bringing The annual awards ceremony celebrates customers the full 360° experience, with inspirational content, both outstanding achievements in the licensing on and off-screen. industry and “their integrity is unquestioned Sizzix empowers each and every creative personality to as an endorsement of excellence”. explore their artistic potential with their collection of die-cutting Proudly spanning all aspects of and embossing machines, supported by an extensive range of dies the UK licensing industry, the awards feature innovative embellishments such and and tools. feature various categories including: attachments that really set the range apart. Create and Craft are broadening their existing product range •The Retailer Awards Jill Alexander – Marketing communications with Sizzix’s innovative range of tools, accessories and supplies •The Product Awards Director at UK Greetings, said: “They say for crafters. •The Property Awards three times a charm and while we’ve been Sam Gollings, Buyer at Create and Craft, said: “This partnership •The Marketing Communication Award nominated for this award a couple of times will bring innovation and inspiration to our customers not just •The Special Awards before, this time we’re bringing it home! through the power of TV shopping but through a multi-channel All of these categories were rich with “We’re incredibly proud of our Disney experience that customers can enjoy wherever and whenever they promising nominations and finalists this Licensed Products and Disney Faces is a great wish to shop.” year. The awards night was a competitive, example of the way we’re continually looking to Amy Dawson, Sales Director at Ellison, added: “We are looking dynamic, and well-attended event. push our ideas further, to create designs that forward to our partnership with Create & Craft and hope to inspire The card range that rocketed UK Greetings challenge conventions and capture peoples viewers at home with our demonstrations. Consumers can expect to success was their Disney Faces collection. imaginations. This is an achievement; testament to see a wide selection of innovative Sizzix products available This delightful range is made up of simple to our fantastic partnership with Disney, the through both TV and online alongside inspirational curated yet striking cards featuring iconic Disney and iconic nature of their characters and the content.” Marvel characters’ faces. The colourful designs talent and teamwork of our design team!”

Ex-Navy officer turns crafting hobby into new business

z Having spent over two crafting community, which album sales took off in shops and has since inspired similar decades as an air traffic essentially is small businesses so and online and by the time I had set-ups across the UK. controller in the Royal Navy, often working in isolation. After my third baby I decided to leave Susan said: “The British Susan Bonnar from Lee-on- nearly six years of helping people the Navy. My passion became Craft House is all about making the-Solent, in Hampshire, online through social media, I helping others and bringing a difference for people. Both for has taken the leap turning got the idea for a new site that together people who spend hours crafters selling their passion, her 15-year-long crafting was different and could support crafting something unique and blood, sweat and tears, but hobby into a new business. businesses in a much better way help them drive it into a business. also for people looking to buy She has launched than what’s already out there. The British Craft House site gives something different. There ‘The British Craft House’ Within five months I’ve launched them that platform. I really want is so much more value in – a website that only sells a completely new business in to help these people sell, to be buying something uniquely unique British crafts helping total contrast to my Navy career.” able to give up their day job so hand-made that you know to support hundreds of Susan, who is originally from they can pursue their passion. is more sustainable and local, regional and national Plymouth and spent more than Make their dreams come true.” supports someone’s dream.” small, hand-made, creative 22 years in the Navy, started Her dedication and drive have Susan has involved crafting businesses making her own cards in 2005. won her national accolades like hundreds of people in around the country. She was at home with her small ‘Small Business Sunday’ from designing the site, which has Susan, who has already children while her husband, also entrepreneur and Southampton been built by web agency been acknowledged by a Navy officer, was at sea, often Solent University Chancellor Morph PR and Marketing ‘Dragon’s Den’ entrepreneur Susan Bonnar said: “The on long deployments and she Theo Paphitis twice. She has Ltd from Southsea. It has Theo Paphitis and has spent British Craft House business wanted to create something also launched the ‘Hampshire only been up and running nearly 15 years crafting cards idea was born on a marathon she could post him every day. Crafters Network’ made up since the start of November and bespoke albums herself, preparation run back in February. She added: “I never of crafters from Hampshire and already lists 170 decided to turn her hobby into I’ve always been passionate considered crafting could be who meet monthly discussing independent businesses and a business five months ago. about bringing together the my full-time job, but card and business and creative ideas more than 3,000 products.

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 5

Brother launches Stellaire new Craft Buddy expands its team embroidery and sewing range following impressive growth z Craft Buddy has expanded its team on the back z Brother has launched its new of new licensing and Stellaire series packed with distribution deals. the latest luxury features for The arts and crafts experienced embroiderers or company, best known for its sewists wanting to take their Crystal Art brand and creativity to the next level. papercrafting products, has For big ideas and even experienced robust levels of bigger creations the Stellaire growth in new and existing Innov-is XE1 and markets, with sales across XJ1’s new features Europe proving to be boast a large sewing particularly strong in the UK, arm and embroidery Germany and Benelux, and area, alongside a recent distribution deals signed crystal-clear HD 10.1” in the USA and Australia. touchscreen LCD display, With over ten years of category experience, new Marketing zoom and adjustment features with – and the Stellaire is what By combining My Design Snap Manager Shamini Soma joins Craft Buddy having worked in a of up to 800% and enhanced we designed, very much with and My Design Centre crafters are number of different sectors at senior level. With experience at LED lighting with five settings. them in mind. We’ve taken great able to ‘doodle’ straight onto their both national and global level, she will be helping to develop the The Stellaire Innov-is XE1 care in bringing together more fabric via the touchscreen, creating company’s marketing strategy in order for Craft Buddy to for embroidery and XJ1 for space to create, time-saving their own truly unique and perfectly continue to achieve their ambitious international growth and sewing and embroidery, are GRAFIX technologies,1.4 3 COL_CRAFT professional BIZ 05/11/2019 15:52placed Page embroidery 1 designs. brand building targets into 2020. the first machines to feature level precision and of course, Suited to both the serious New Trade Assistant Manager, Rohin Kotecha, joins the Brother’s new My Design Snap plenty of creative inspiration. home sewist and the budding team as a Cardiff University graduate where he built his strong app, which allows smartphone “Thanks to the latest in business owner, the Innov-is base of knowledge studying French and Economics over a users to send a photo of their sewing technologies, we’re XJ1 and XE1 are packed with four-year academic course. Already building strong relationships fabric direct to their Stellaire. confident Stellaire owners will professional features, such with Craft Buddy’s valued trade partners, Rohin is pivotal to Stuart Stamp, at Brother always get consistent stitch as the automatic presser foot ensure consistent support for the company’s expanding retail Sewing in Europe, said: “It’s length, laser straight lines functions, one-touch stippling base, both home and abroad. certainly a case of bigger and uniform edge stitching, function, auto jump stitch Hannah Cheveralls joins Craft Buddy as the new Finance is better with our Stellaire whenever they sit down to sew.” trimmer and the stitch to block Manager having learned her trade working in the insurance series. They are the perfect Both machines also come function, which lets users resize industry. Hannah brings her tenacity and work ethic alongside machines for embroiderers with Brother’s My Design patterns without losing density, her relevant experience as she takes on responsibility for all or sewists who want to take Centre software built in, giving so they can increase or decrease areas of Craft Buddy’s accounts and finance. their creativity to the next users the chance to create patterns to almost any size. Gary Wadhwani, co-founder, said: “We are delighted to have level and without bounds. their own embroidery designs For more information expanded our Craft Buddy team. We look forward to the “We looked at what was directly on the machine’s on the new range or to find contribution their experience and skills will bring to the team in important to embroiderers touchscreen without the need your local stockist visit www. order for us to continue to deliver the best for our customers, and sewists we work closely of any additional software. brothersewing.co.uk both trade and retail.”

DERWENT HIT THE SMALL SCREEN z Derwent hit the small screen and revealed the secrets of its world-renowned factory, thanks to a new series on ITV4. Made in Britain, aired on September 25 and followed the British brand’s award-winning Graphic Pencils through the full manufacturing process. Viewers of the show were able to see how Derwent pencils are crafted, how the Cumbrian company’s innovative R&D team work and much more. Narrated by Ricky Tomlinson, the show explored Britain’s manufacturing heritage and discovered interesting behind-the- scenes details about some of the UK’s largest companies. Derwent were hand-picked for the show as the only remaining UK pencil factory, its history and international recognition.

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ICHF Events introduces Visitor registration now open for CHSI Stitches 2020 artisan offering to z Pre-registration for the UK’s industry and we are looking Creative Craft shows trade show for the creative forward to our 42nd year craft industry, CHSI Stitches, of Stitches in February.” z The UK’s leading lifestyle, Bert and Gert’s: Mark and Jason Wilkes is now open to all retailers More than 100 hours of craft and cake events organiser, and craft trade buyers. free education is on offer ICHF Events, has announced a Taking place on February throughout the event with the partnership with Birmingham- 16-18 at the NEC, Birmingham, keynote seminar revealing the based craft market organisers UK, CHSI Stitches is the UK’s results of The Craft Report, the Bert and Gert’s, to bring a new leading craft trade show. independent report on the UK artisan craft area to the shows. The February event features craft industry giving insights The partnership started at more than 100,000 products into the UK craft industry, Simply Christmas at the NEC from over 200 exhibitors buying motivators and habits from October 31 - November 3 across the globe, showcasing of the crafting public. Visitors and continues at the Creative the latest innovation in can also attend free, trade only Craft Shows through 2020. products and designs. workshop sessions focused on Started through a love of arts Simon Burns, Managing teaching new techniques and and crafts in 2012, Bert and Director of ICHF Events, imparting product knowledge Gert’s is run by Birmingham- said: “CHSI Stitches is the to improve in store sales. based brothers Mark and Jason meeting place for the craft Product inspiration can be Wilkes. It runs boutique artisan industry. The 2020 show found at the popular catwalk craft markets across the UK, and bring visitors to the shows crafts to our Creative Craft offers independent retailers show featuring garments working with an eclectic mix something a little different.” shows. Our visitors will be and trade buyers the chance created using the latest fabrics, of artisan makers. Named The Bert and Gert’s area able to treat themselves to to test, touch and experience yarns and haberdashery after grandparents, Bert and at the NEC Birmingham beautiful, unique items as the latest craft products, and a new ‘Trending Now’ Gert’s is a truly family business show in November featured well as be inspired to stock take part in free seminars area highlighting recent rooted in a love of craft. upwards of 32 stands. up on materials for their own and workshops and get vital product releases from Jason Wilkes said: “Bert and ICHF Events Managing Director, crafting projects. It’s great industry insight. CHSI Stitches exhibitors. The Bright Gert’s champions the small Simon Burns, said: “The trend fit for the shows and we’re brings together over 6,000 Sparks feature showcases artisan craft makers and we see across the industry for excited to be working with craft buyers with innovative brand new designers and partnering with the Creative Craft beautiful handmade finished Bert and Gert’s on this.” DYEING HOUSEsuppliers GALLERY from around 1.2_CRAFT the BIZ 06/11/2019leading-edge 17:12 products Page 1 Show is something we’re very crafts continues to grow. ICHF events organises more world. It is a celebration of our from across the world. excited about. Being at these Much of this has been online than 25 shows in the UK shows will open up a whole new and we saw an opportunity each year. For more details audience for our artisan traders to bring in more finished visit: www.ichfevents.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com ICHF page_CRAFT BIZ 05/11/2019 10:57 Page 1 8 NEWS

Mobilise your support for the Craft Business Awards 2020 z The votes are flooding amazing craft businesses, is Stitches in February, enjoying the A glittering panel of in for the Craft Business in turn celebrating creativity.” chance to meet not just the Craft judges will pick the best Awards 2020. The Craft Business Awards Business magazine team, but the of the bunch in the Elite The deadline is fast categories cover everything entire Aceville craft department’s Industry Awards category. approaching and if you have from independent shops and journalists, but you can also Editor Mark Hayhurst said: been lucky enough to be products, right up to big brands. look forward to extensive “The Craft Business Awards Hundreds of votes are coming shortlisted then mobilise your Each category aims to celebrate coverage in Craft Business are in their 15th year now and in across all the categories and support and get them to cast and recognise excellence magazine and its accompanying they get bigger all the time. Not it’s neck and neck in a lot of their votes. Make sure you within our vibrant sector. website and social media. only do they honour the hard them. So make sure you get your put a shout out across all Winning a Craft Business Last year’s awards received work everyone puts into their support to cast their votes.” your social media channels. Award can mean a lot to you and over 26,000 votes and reached companies and products, but The closing date for voting Head along to the Craft your business. Not only will you over 115,000 people. they offer a feel-good factor that is December 13, 2019. Business website (www. receive your trophy at a glitzy Voting for the awards will make handing out the prizes a For sponsor opportunities email craftbusiness.com/awards) and champagne reception at CHSI close on December 13, 2019. real highlight of the team’s year. [email protected] follow the voting instructions. The Craft Business Awards, sponsored by the Creation Station, are the biggest and most well-respected in the crafting industry, celebrating everyone from small start ups to the giants of papercraft, knitting, stitching, haberdashery, beading, jewellery and creative stationery. Sarah Cressall, founder of the Creation Station, said: “We are thrilled to be a part WOW EMBOSSINGof Craft Business 1.2_CRAFT Awards, BIZ 07/11/2019 16:27 Page 1 creativity is such a vital attribute, and celebrating these

www.craftbusiness.com CREATIVE SPARKS 9 Creativity and Christmas - bring the festive season to sparkly life! Sarah Cressall, best selling author, multi-award- winning entrepreneur, speaker, founder and CEO of the Creation Station, gives us her tips for a crafty Christmas z There is something truly 2. Doodle Christmas magical about the festive designs – take a line season, catching up with for a walk and see what people, sparkly lights, the Christmas designs you smell of fir trees and open can come up with. fires, plus great food and drink 3. Use old Christmas and a vibrancy in the air. wrapping paper or old Ever since I can remember I’ve cards to create a collage. made my own Christmas cards. 4. Paint a design – For me and the kids it’s been experiment with part of our festive preparations. limiting your pallet We’ve come up with a wide to two colours. range of ideas and slightly mad 5. Make some potato prints activities. From potato printed and paint and print. reindeer, fabric Christmas trees, 6. Ask the family to create tree doodles, photo montages painted fingerprints, once and clay Christmas decorations dry, turn these into a portraits attached to the cards with with a black marker pen. ribbon - most of these broke 7. Turn your fingerprints into when they landed on the door a family of reindeer. mat and people got an envelope 8. Cut up some old cardboard of white powder (I said it was boxes to create shapes Christmas magic dust!). It’s a and use this to print with. great excuse to get creative 9. Recycle old pieces of together and convert the kitchen paper into different lengths table into a festive creative hub. to create a recycled As well as bringing the paper strip affect tree. family together, there are lots 10. Transform handprints into of opportunities to tap into Santa, trees or whatever your your creativity to produce a imagination comes up with. more personalized, mindful, 11. Fold triangles of paper into cost effective or eco Christmas trees and embellishments. of the many apps to animate gold card and write the recipients z Enter a design for depending on your focus. 12. Sew directly onto the card to your image. This is a great name on one side and your name our Christmas Card There are endless ways create unique star patterns. way of using screen time for of the back. Slide the star into 2019 competition. to create your own design for 13. If you are creating with extending the creative process, the paper clip and you have a very your Christmas cards, gift tags, kids, give them a range Very popular with teenagers! unique festive greeting sculpture. z FANCY A MORE wrapping paper and Christmas of materials, put some For a slightly different take Developing these ideas CREATIVE 2020? tree decorations. Here are a few festive tunes on and just on giving Christmas cards – further you can create a wide With 2020 close by, you may be ideas to feed your inspiration: see what happens! give a mini, malleable, reusable, range of wonderful hand- thinking about a new career or 1. Have a go at lino cutting a personalized sculpture. Create a made items that provide truly making changes to achieve more design and printing – I’ve Of course, once you have Christmas tree model from Play- thoughtful gifts. Reusing and flexibility, use your talents, benefit just done my first lino print your design you can either print, Doh, add beads and buttons as repurposing other materials can from your own hard work or and created doodle bauble or send digital cards. A further embellishments and pop a paper create some lovely effects. perhaps turning your passion for and I’m hooked now! development is to use some clip in the top. Cut out a star from To find lots more creative creativity into your own business. activities and ideas subscribe You may have seen the to The Creation Station increase in demand for creative Youtube for a weekly Make classes, parties and events it Monday video tutorial. for children and adults. With a Creation Station franchise, you z INSPIRING GIFT receive award-winning training FOR THOSE WHO and on-going support to deliver LOVE TO DEVELOP art and craft activities for both THEIR CREATIVITY children and adults within your My Amazon best selling book community. Many of our 120 ‘Creative Sparks – mishaps, successful franchise owners hurdles and ideas to inspire you had never run a business before and yours’ is packed with over 52 and come from a wide range ideas to inspire both children and of backgrounds, including adults imagination all year round. PA’s, teachers, HR, crafters, This Christmas at Creation managers and bankers. Station we are providing lots of If you would like to create creative ideas, inspiration and a a 2020 that puts you in control fun competition to help get the of your working career doing festive creative juices flowing. something you love and making Check out www. a difference to others please thecreationstation.co.uk for: request an information pack. z Daily advent inspiration Visit www.thecreationstation. of hand-made Christmas co.uk/craftsbusiness activity ideas. Wishing you a fabulous z Creative family and fun festive season. festive challenge Here’s to inspiring futures.

www.craftbusiness.com 10 PROMOTION

Always looking to WOW consumers!

z STABILO is a family-owned the STABILO point 88 allows business and has been for over Vanya Hunter, STABILO UK Marketing Manager, guides us precise, accurate and detailed 160 years. Based in Nuremberg, work for writing or drawing. Germany, with more than 1,500 through some of their iconic products employees worldwide, STABILO z STABILO EASYORIGINAL manufactures market-leading its unique design and fluorescent beautiful shimmering colours: Always designing products with pens and pencils for writing, colours, while the anti-dry-out copper, gold, silver, blue and the user in mind, STABILO’s colouring, highlighting and technology makes them reliable green with three new colours range for children learning sketching, including the iconic and cost-effective. In recent years added this year: violet, rose to write is unbeatable. The STABILO BOSS ORIGINAL, the introduction of a pastel range, and light green. The Pen EASYoriginal is an ergonomic, STABILO point 88 and STABILO incorporating contemporary 68 metallic ink is water- refillable rollerball shaped and Pen 68. STABILO’s products trends, has proved enormously based, odourless and sized for children’s hands. are manufactured in Germany, popular with consumers has premium pigments Shaped to suit left or right- Czech Republic and Malaysia and helped to maintain the to ensure high light handers, the EASYoriginal – and are available worldwide overwhelming popularity resistance. The robust, has a moulded, non-slip in over 180 countries of the STABILO BOSS medium tip applies rich gripzone to encourage the The design and manufacture ORIGINAL. In fact, STABILO colour with dazzling correct tripod grip and help to of visionary pens and pencils BOSS ORIGINAL highlighters metallic effects, especially prevent fatigue. The refillable, remains the company’s goal, have been the company’s hero on black and coloured erasable ink doesn’t scratch utilizing blogs, trend reports and product for the last two years. card. The Pen 68 metallic or blot, making learning working with brand aficionados in doesn’t require shaking or to write a more enjoyable focus groups to drive continuous z STABILO PEN 68 pumping to prepare the ink experience. The STABILO research and development The iconic Pen 68 has been before use, it’s super-easy EASYoriginal is available in through its Innovation Lab. everyone’s best colouring friend for consumers to work on a range of fun colours and All new ideas are tested and since 1966 and is the pen that creative ideas immediately. designs to appeal to children. evaluated before being shared earned STABILO its reputation with fans for their valuable for unbeatable premium quality. z STABILO POINT 88 z FUTURE feedback. STABILO’s principal The Pen 68 is now available in Instantly recognisable, the As a brand leader in writing goal when developing new 47 different colours, including STABILO point 88 pen instrument innovation, STABILO products is to ‘wow’ consumers - neon and pastel shades, and is the classic fineliner will continue to develop and and even its own team - with fresh boasts a 24-hour cap off time, and currently Europe’s introduce fresh ideas to the and colourful writing instruments. water-based odourless ink and number one! The writing and colouring market This creative and exacting colour-intensive brilliance. famous hexagonal barrel for years to come. Exploring process has led to the inception makes it comfortable new trends and incorporating of STABILO’s many cult pens. z PEN 68 METALLICS to grip, while the wide sustainability, STABILO strives to COLOURS choice of 47 different provide colourful and inspiring z STABILO BOSS A new member of the Pen 68 shades means the perfect products that enable everyone For more than 45 years, STABILO family was introduced in 2018 colour is always available. – young and old – to be creative BOSS ORIGINAL has set the in the shape of the STABILO Pen Perfect for schoolchildren, and to express themselves standards for text markers with 68 metallics. Originally in five students or professionals, through writing and drawing.

www.craftbusiness.com SHOW NEWS 11

Pure inspiration: The stationery trends of tomorrow now already at Paperworld z Paperworld, the international elegance and modernity. The stationery, office supplies and exquisite material aesthetics writing materials fair, brings are closely intertwined with the industry and retailers together sophisticated design, which is on a single platform, and distinguished by exceptional provides an insight into the quality and refinement. The product trends of tomorrow. materials and colours are From 25 to 28 January characterised by nature - wood, 2020 in Frankfurt am Main, both natural stone or leather lend the exhibitors and Paperworld structure and a special tactile Trends will be presenting new feel. At the same time, the focus products for commercial office is on the durability of the products supplies (the visionary office) - fine writing instruments, desk and non-business stationery, accessories or notebooks. writing materials and school supplies (the stationery trends). z THE TREND WORLDS The duo consisting of AT PAPERWORLD "the visionary office" and "the All three Paperworld Trends stationery trends" is reflected will be presented at the fair in the Paperworld Trends. They from 25 to 28 January 2020 in show innovative solutions an exhibition area in Hall 3.1 for the office of tomorrow, J11 using products from the and pioneering lifestyle exhibitors. It is the first port of trends for schools, gift-giving, call for new products and is packaging and celebrating. regarded as the most important On behalf of Paperworld, information platform in the the bora.herke.palmisano industry. "Trade visitors receive style agency has looked into specific trend predictions with the question of what the trend exhibitor and product information products for the coming season as well as guided tours with will be. For this purpose, they said: “Essential impulses for surfaces, colour blocking, product world is reduced and specialist presentations", draw on developments in fashion the new design of office spaces kaleidoscopic effects and aesthetic, at the same time, says Michael Reichhold, and architecture as well as are increasingly coming from shimmer are the hallmarks of technology and lifestyle merge. Director of Paperworld. product and furniture design, and home and product design. At this trend world. In addition, The emphasis is on pastel The trend worlds developed transfer them to the paper, office the same time, a generation "Blazing Hotchpotch" focuses colour nuances and pleasing by the bora.herke.palmisano supplies and stationery sector. of restrained and modest on movement, both in terms of surfaces that blend to create style agency will be presented They place selected products consumers is coming of age, colours and designs as well as an inspiring living and working by Claudia Herke from Saturday from a variety of exhibitors who are critically examining with its expressiveness: Concepts environment. Floral designs to Monday at 11am and in a forward-looking context, questions of sustainability.” for cooperative interaction in and subtle colour transitions 3pm in English and German thus forming the forecasts Recycling, upcycling, the office environment, freely underline the harmonious with a guided tour and brief for the coming season. and a circular economy designable co-working spaces, lightness of the trend world. The presentation. On Tuesday, it takes New working environments are becoming the decisive and solutions for the office-to-go product range extends from fine place at 11am Specific product are bringing about a new arguments for brands and are addressed. This dynamic is writing instruments and haptic examples will be presented for perception of office work. products. This is the context also reflected in the materials paperware to textile office design. each trend in the course of the Well-being and flexibility in which the 2020 Paperworld that are either recycled or made tour. The products shown are are becoming increasingly trend worlds are taking place. of alternative materials. z "NOBLE BARRIQUE" marked with the manufacturer's important. The establishment - STRIVING FOR name and appear on a list. of a creative atmosphere is z "BLAZING HOTCHPOTCH" z "SMOOTH SORBET" - FIND PERFECTION The complimentary trend also gaining in importance in – ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE CALMNESS AND HARMONY The "Noble Barrique" trend cards are available at the parallel with the digital spirit of The "Blazing Hotchpotch" trend This trend follows the desire world concentrates on premium, Paperworld Trends information optimism and new, communal features a convincing mix of for greater tranquillity and functional, and durable products stand. The exact colour values, living and working concepts. styles, colours and possibilities. relaxation. "Smooth Sorbet" is with sophisticated details. example materials and samples Claudia Herke from the bora. Vibrant designs and colours are characterised by soft shapes Minimalism in the style of for every trend will be available herke.palmisano style agency, combined - patchwork, graphic and delicate colours. The Bauhaus is combined with in the high-quality print copies.

www.craftbusiness.com 12 SHOW NEWS

Creativeworld 2020: the vibrant meeting place for the international DIY world Insights, trends and all the latest trade goods will be on offer in Frankfurt

z Creativeworld is where time but also the right way to Buntpapierfabrik Ludwig products will be shown by We see personal advice and creativity meets business go about it. Since then, that Bähr, Eberhard Faber, Max Hotex - Hollmann, Stafil, visual communication as being – with more than 350 small segment has developed Bringmann/Folia, Rayher Hardick and Groves. the particular strengths of the manufacturers and over 9,000 into the creative meeting Hobby, Rico Design, z The exhibitors in the specialist trade. At Creativeworld, buyers. Creativeworld, leading place for the whole world. Carioca and Staedtler. decorative handicrafts include the trade can be sure of international trade fair for hobby, “Being unrivalled worldwide z In the graphic art and Efco Creative and Glorex. finding what it needs to serve arts and crafts supplies, shows is a great responsibility. artists’ requisites segment, the individual requirements what is driving and advancing Accordingly, we are very registrations have been z COMPLEMENTARY of creative customers.” the market: future-oriented well aware that our job with received from, for example, PROGRAMME OF EVENTS trends, the latest materials Creativeworld is to reflect the Tombow, Clairefontaine, OFFERS VALUE ADDED z CREATIVEWORLD and heaps of expertise. world market, to be a trend Lascaux, Art Select, Marabu, FOR THE TRADE TRENDS: ‘WORK It is set to transform barometer and source of ideas, Lyra, Kreul and H. Schmincke. Michael Reichhold added: “We IN PROGRESS’ the exhibition halls of and to advise the sector.” z The manufacturers showing present tomorrow’s trends, An important source of Messe Frankfurt into a a broad spectrum of products offer concept areas on subjects inspiration for the trade are the creative marketplace from z LARGE NUMBER OF for graffiti and street art will relevant to the sector and Creativeworld Trends in Hall January 25-28, 2020. REGISTRATIONS AND include Feuerstein GmbH hold workshops and product 4.1 (Stand F 52/53). Everything The great demand for creative CREATIVE VARIETY (Molotow), Never be quiet, demonstrations for the specialist that finds its way into the materials, products, tools and The outlook for Creativeworld Royal Talens, Montana trade. At the fiercely competitive Trend Area is unique, having applications continues unabated. 2020 is positive: more than Color and Ghiant Aerosols. point of sale, everyone must been made using products To use your own hands to make, 350 manufacturers from all z In the handiwork and textiles spotlight their core areas of and materials supplied by repair or recycle things produces over the world have registered design segment, the latest expertise to entice customers. exhibitors. New creative ideas a positive feeling. ‘Self-made’ for the coming event to show has developed into a new status the entire creative spectrum of symbol, a counter-trend to the materials, tools and products “At Creativeworld, the trade can be sure of rapid pace of digitalisation and in five product groups: the many other changes that z The hobby, arts and crafts is finding what it needs to serve the individual are omnipresent in both private extremely well represented requirements of creative customers” and business life. However, by companies such as digitalisation cannot satisfy all Creative Company, Sizzix, MICHAEL REICHHOLD, CREATIVEWORLD DIRECTOR, MESSE FRANKFURT EXHIBITION GMBH consumer needs. And this is the source of the widespread consumer wish for greater individuality and creativity. A creative market needs a platform where it can show what it has to offer. And this is exactly where Creativeworld has a vital role to play. Michael Reichhold, Creativeworld Director, Messe Frankfurt Exhibition GmbH, said: “When we launched Creativeworld as an independent trade fair for the creative sector ten years ago, we chose not only the right

www.craftbusiness.com SHOW NEWS 13

z CREATIVE IMPULSE innovative start-ups from the AWARD CELEBRATES creative sector a platform for ITS 15TH ANNIVERSARY making international business WITH NEW CATEGORIES contacts and gaining a foothold The Creative Impulse Award is in the international market. the most important distinction for To qualify, companies must the hobby, handicrafts and artists’ have been founded less than requisites sector and will be ten years ago, have fewer than given for the 15th time in 2020. 50 employees and an annual To mark this occasion, Messe turnover of max €10 million. Frankfurt and the bit-Verlag Their products, processes or publishing company have decided services should be characterised are added, and innovative z STREET ART GOES z CREATIVEWORLD to include two new categories. by new developments or techniques tested. For the EDUCATION ACADEMY – A NEW NAME Michael Reichhold said: “In verifiable improvements. specialist trade, the Creativeworld Creativeworld is continuing WITH A PROVEN CONCEPT addition to the existing awards The promotional area is an Trends are a veritable treasure its focus on street art with a Creativeworld Forum is now for the product, complete set, initiative of the Federal Ministry trove. There, retailers find concept area revolving around the Creativeworld Academy tool and book of the year, we of Economics and Energy inspiration for window dressing the subject of education in and will continue to offer are adding the artist’s product (Bundesministerium für and in-store presentations – 2020. Together with Carlos numerous workshops and of the year in 2020, for example, Wirtschaft und Energie – BMWi). with which they can attract Lorente of Style Scout – Graffiti product presentations on brushes, easels and paper. The customers into their shops. Academy, Creativeworld will the latest creative materials second innovation is a special z NEW: THE NEWCOMER In the Trend Area, trade prepare the top theme for and techniques. Retailers category entitled ‘sustainable PACKAGE visitors can learn the individual the specialist trade and give learn directly from the product’.” All products entered Aimed at new exhibitors, this techniques and ask questions. In retailers the opportunity to manufacturers how to use for the Creative Impulse Award no-worries package includes this way, they can expand their learn about graffiti materials the products and what they will be on show in Hall 4.2 a fully equipped, nine-square- area of expertise, pass on this and techniques. In this need to know when it comes (Stand F45/F46). Exhibitors metre exhibition stand and the knowledge to their customers connection, the emphasis will to advice and sales. Moreover, interested in entering their Media Package. Messe Frankfurt and spotlight tomorrow’s trends. be on the provision of expert Creativeworld Academy offers products can register on the is responsible for setting-up the For the 2010/21 season, Stilbüro advice. Retailers will have the retailers ideas for holding internet at creative-impulse.de. stand and providing the fixtures bora.herke.palmissano, the opportunity to discover how workshops at their stores and furnishing. On arrival, the design studio responsible for street art works and explain and positioning themselves z NEW: A SUCCESSFUL manufacturer simply moves developing the trends on behalf of it to their customers. For only as expert partners for their LAUNCH onto the finished exhibition Messe Frankfurt, has developed retailers who are able to offer customers. This interesting With the new BMWi Area in Hall stand and decorates it with three trend statements under authentic and expert advice and varied programme will 4.2, which will be available to the appropriate products. In the motto ‘work in progress’: can hope to generate additional be hosted by DIY icon and TV young companies for the first other words, preparing for the ‘re-form’, ‘work-out’ and ‘up-date’. sales and retain customers. presenter Martina Lammel. time in 2020, Creativeworld offers fair could hardly be easier!

www.craftbusiness.com 14 SHOW NEWS

Creativeworld trends 2020\21 Stilbüro bora.herke.palmisano illustrates the creative ‘Work in progress’ developmental process with the Creativeworld trends for the upcoming season.

z The creative future looks will be showcased in Hall 4.1 re-form and up-date. They early days of photography, yarns, leftover wool, beads colourful and experimental (stand F52/53), providing an bring together one concept: the contours and structures and other materials, such as when it comes to arts and crafts, almost endless abundance of being open to new ideas. of leaves, plants and flowers paper strips, cut up plastic hobbies and artists’ requisites. creative ideas. The particular can be reproduced to achieve bags and fabric offcuts, can We are surrounded by benefit in this for trade visitors z WORK-OUT: MAKING beautiful graphic effects. Prints be interwoven to make a wall trends. There are trend motifs lies in the creative realisation THINGS BY HAND such as these can be used on hanging or cushion cover. such as owls, unicorns and of the individual themes. Here In this trend world, creativity invitations, on the wall or to monstera leaves. We encounter they will find inspiration for their comes particularly to the fore. cover notebooks, for example. z UP-DATE: BRINGING them on the street, in shops, product ranges and the design The focus here is on making THINGS UP TO DATE and in the media, and they of their own shop windows and things with our own hands z RE-FORM: COLOURFUL This trend world is aimed at influence designers, product retail spaces. This is because and on rough work with raw TRANSFORMATION the younger generation. It developers, retailers and, DIY is brought alive with the materials such as concrete, Keywords, such as multicolour, is experimental, rather than of course, end consumers. Creativeworld trends: all the plaster and cement. There collagen, action painting, batik, following the norm, and it There are some megatrends, exhibition pieces are specially are attractive techniques here dip dyeing and patchwork, sum is about free application such as individualisation and made by a creative team of for achieving strong surface up the ‘re-form’ style world. of scribbled, cut out, hand- mindfulness. All of this has an designers and artists. They effects with irregular, original Intensive colours and multi painted or sprayed writing. influence on the creative sector are unique items that have and imperfect textures. So combinations of different The emphasis is on creativity, as well. The Creativeworld trends been created from products an amalgamation of building materials and techniques reach as opposed to the calligraphic convey an overview, or bundling, from the companies who are rubble, granite, pebbles their experimental peak in this writing used in hand lettering. of all the trends and current exhibiting. What is more, the and waste materials can trend world. Everything goes; The focus here is on ideas, showing international products, materials and tools be poured into a mould to there’s nothing that can’t be customising everyday objects, retailers what’s in vogue for are exhibited in such a way that create concrete with a rough done. So patterned designs are and it’s very popular across the upcoming DIY season. the trade visitors can follow and matt appearance. overprinted, T-shirts, rucksacks all generations. Whether it is Michael Reichhold, Director of the developmental process. In addition, delicate natural and trainers are decorated a graffiti technique, intarsia Creativeworld, Messe Frankfurt Designer Claudia Herke, materials, such as seaweed, with paint sticks, scrap wool knitting, appliqués or paper Exhibition GmbH, said: “We are from Stilbüro bora.herke. willow and rattan, are used. is woven or knitted, regardless creations, such as cut out commissioning Stilbüro bora. palmisano, said: “For the 2020/21 These are plaited, knotted or of structure and colour, and art, it is the personal touch herke.palmisano to select our trends, we’ll be highlighting the woven, and serve as natural a wide variety of colours are that makes rucksacks, pencil trends. The designers gather developmental process. There home accessories, such as seat applied and squeegeed onto cases, hoodies, laptop cases information throughout the are no barriers to finding new cushions, table runners, table canvases with spatulas. or even furniture items into year from across all disciplines. ideas when working intensively mats and curtains. Iron blueprint The materials are mainly unique pieces. Mixed media They draw their inspiration with different materials and with solar photographic paper recycled or upcycled. This art comes into its own here: from fashion, product design techniques. We’re calling for is a very special technique is where fabric remnants, materials such as markers, and lifestyle, and they adapt people to push the boundaries for visualising shadows and scrap wool and leftover paint paint brushes, foil transfers what they’ve seen to the and accept failed attempts silhouettes. Using this special can be put to good use. For or casting resin can be used creative sector. This is the in order to come up with new light sensitive paper from the a patchwork effect, different for every kind of technique. way the Creativeworld trends approaches. Mixed media art come into being every year, is the key to creativity here. giving manufacturers and There’s not just one technique “We’re calling for people to push the retailers inspiration and a look for a particular product: ahead, and showing what’s different results come from boundaries and accept failed attempts in on trend across the world.” experimental trial and error.” order to come up with new approaches” At Creativeworld, from Three ‘style worlds’ have January 25-28, 2020, the trends emerged from this: work-out, CLAUDIA HERKE, FROM STILBÜRO BORA.HERKE.PALMISANO

www.craftbusiness.com SHOW NEWS 15

INTRODUCING.... KARIN - ‘the game changer’

z This is the story of a Polish brand that won the hearts of calligraphers and watercolor artists by storm over the course of a year. It all began in 2018 when the “Brushmarkers PRO” product line for artists was created, containing 60 colours of water markers (dye-based ink) equipped with abrasion-resistant nib and an free-ink distribution system that allows perfect colour blending and thus applying to watercolour techniques on paper for water techniques. The whole is completed by the aesthetic and practical packaging of the sets. Instagram reacted very spontaneously to this product: the @karinmarkers account grew quickly from zero to over 170,000 followers within this time period and the company quickly became known around the world. Terms such as “the game changer”, “watercolours in markers”, “the juiciest markers ever” appear in many comments. Thousands of posts have been created showing product quality and possible application techniques already. Brushmarkers PRO enjoy an unwavering reputation and are in demand by artists from around the world. The company has so far delivered many thousands of parcels to recipients from all over the world and over one million guests have already visited its website. All KARIN products are created and manufactured in Poland by a passionate team of people – the company was established 1989 and since the beginning the goal has been to deliver professional artists as well as hobbyists best products on the market. Following the growing publicity, there were voices about the availability of products in stores – many sellers have already established cooperation wanting to meet the GROVESgrowing 1.2_CRAFT demand BIZ 07/11/2019for these products. 12:34 Page Interested? 1 Visit KARIN at Creativeworld 2020 in Frankfurt - Hall 4.2, Stand A79 on January 25-28, 2020.

www.craftbusiness.com WEST DESIGN page_CRAFT BIZ 05/11/2019 10:58 Page 1 PROMOTION 17

Are you prepared for success this Christmas? Jo Bray, West Design Products’ Managing Director – Sales and Marketing, shares their top Christmas gift picks to help you drive your festive success

z With retail’s festive season needle felt, sewing, pyrography, while also remaining relevant even professionals. The Artiste giving them an on-trend folk now upon us and more than half Christmas decorations, candle throughout the year. range is colour-coded by art twist, Merriest Christmas. In of UK consumer’s Christmas making and glass painting medium, making the end-user particular, the Match Box Kit - budget being dedicated to (with more added this year), z MARABU SCREEN shopping experience simpler while perfect for the seasonal crafter. gifts, we wanted to share there’s something for everyone! PRINTING KIT creating beautifully prominent Including four keepsake boxes with you our top gift picks for And with fashion-forward Capitalise on the ‘do-it-yourself’ displays that drive retail sales. filled with die-cut stars, die-cut Christmas to help you capture product innovation and simple craze while enabling consumers trees and two alternate gift tag a portion of the market and step-by-step instructions, to dabble in the latest trend with z CRAFT PLANET designs. All in a beautiful palette drive your success this winter. Simply Make craft kits suit the Marabu Screen Printing kit. PAINT STICKS of soft sage greens combined All while spreading the joy of all tastes and abilities. With the hobbyist in mind, Marabu Keep the little ones (and parents) with the classic red of Santa. seasonal art and crafting. brings together their wealth of happy with Craft Planet Paint Discover and shop the full Whether a beginner, casual z FABER-CASTELL experience and excellence to Sticks. Enhance, and inspire range of Christmas gifts online crafter, dabbler or seasoned PENCIL GIFT SET develop an easy-to-use, accessible children’s creativity by letting their at shop.westdesignproducts. hobbyist, kits, sets and packs Experience the quality, luxury and kit. Containing everything imagination run wild. Available co.uk/ChristmasGiftsTopPicks. prove an ideal avenue into the expertise of Faber-Castell this needed in a single box, at an in handy sets of six or 12, and To find out more about the world of art and craft due to Christmas with the Goldfaber affordable, attractive price point a range of colours that are truly product ranges, how you can drive their accessibility, affordability Colour Pencil Gift Set. Aimed for gifting, the Marabu Screen out of this world, Craft Planet your success this Christmas and and ease of use. Making them at the student and hobbyist Printing kit is perfect to introduce Paint Sticks are fun, easy to our great festive promotions, call hugely popular in gifting – without sacrificing the quality consumers to the fantastic use and ensure less mess than us today on 01303 297888. Or especially during Christmas that sets Faber-Castell apart, technique of screen printing. traditional paint and brush – great alternatively, you can email us at With striking, eye-caching the gift set contains 19 richly- for those wet, wintery days! [email protected] packaging, commonly in the pigmented Goldfaber colour z CREATIVITY FOR KIDS and we’d be happy to support you. form of a convenient box, art and pencils, two graphite pencils, The ultimate in kid’s craft kits, z NOTEWORTHY craft kits, sets and packs make a dust-free eraser, metal Creativity For Kids; designed to Bringing the latest contemporary for an attractive merchandising sharper and an A5 sketch pad. ignite children’s creative thinking trends and style to the world of solution, creating beautiful There’s everything needed to and imagination with hands-on stationery, Noteworthy offers retail displays that entice unleash creative potential. play. The most popular Creativity fashion-forward, on-trend stationery and drive sales. Not only this, For Kids kit, Fashion Headbands, with modern life in mind. Including they also make for a fantastic z COPIC DOODLE PACK includes fluffy pom poms, rainbow organisers, diaries, notebooks gifting experience for friends, Pushing the boundaries of ribbon, flowers and butterflies to and planners, Noteworthy is the family and colleagues alike colour vibrancy, consistency design and create ten beautiful go-to for super-cool stationery and quality, Copic Markers are headbands. Great for play days collections that suit all tastes. And z SIMPLY MAKE desired by a vast community and provides hours of fun! to complement the range, there CRAFT KITS of artists, illustrators, designers are matching pens, pencils, sticky Combining the timeless and crafters. As the perfect z ARTISTE WATERCOLOUR notes and clips to add a splash of satisfaction of craft with modern introduction to the range, the PAINT SET style and personality to the world! trends and beautiful end- Copic Doodle Pack contains Reveal your inner artist with products, Simply Make craft kits two Ciao Markers with a the Artiste Watercolour Paint z MERRIEST CHRISTMAS not only prove a brilliant gift, but complementary Glitter Pen Set, including 24 beautifully MATCH BOX KIT their popularity is retained all and a 0.3mm Multiliner – vibrant paints that prove perfect Our latest collection, taking year round. With kits spanning making a very special gift, for beginners, students and traditional Christmas themes and

www.craftbusiness.com 18 SUSTAINABILITY

Linda Barker z From the upcycling king to the recycling and ‘Changing Going Green Rooms’ queen, avid upcycler, leading TV presenter and interior designer, Linda Barker has also been playing an important part off-screen in The Art of Eco-crafting! the booming contemporary craft revival, encouraging people to rekindle old craft Angela Sara West chats with some of Britain’s biggest skills so they’re not forgotten. “I’m always striving to sustainability craft influencers, who are among the country’s be as eco aware as I can be by looking at the companies greenest innovative designers and brands I use for their sustainability records and looking at product ingredients. It’s one of the first things I’ll ask a company about z Move over plastic pollution, there are copious From upcycling a pre-loved piece of furniture, if I’m working alongside them. I’ll work together with other crafty eco-warriors and products in town… With adding a sustainable spin on repurposed accessories designers and I love collaborations. Good design will always give the UK boasting an abundance of exciting eco- and putting your own stamp on recycled old clothes, a product the ‘stand out’ factor, and if it’s brought to the table as design talent, plus a plethora of environmentally- to introducing plastic-free wrapping, switching to a a joint effort, then that’s preferable to me working in isolation.” friendly craft products, such as paints and carbon-offsetting scheme or collaborating with a How does it feel to be an influencer, among those leading waxes to get creative with to boot, craft and charity, you can give a space, wardrobe and business the way in environmentally-friendly craft practice? “If I can conscious sustainability prove the perfect fit. a complete makeover without it costing the earth. continue to influence others then I consider myself very fortunate to have made the right choices in my work. I’ve always worked sustainably - upcycling furniture and preferring to renovate old rather than buying new isn’t anything new to me. I’m at my happiest at a boot fair or antiques market hunting for my next treasure. I’m a kind of collector at heart… the Max McMurdo right find, be it a piece of furniture or fabric, will be purchased z Supercool British designer, for its look and aesthetics. It might not find its true home engineer, entrepreneur and for years, but I always buy with a considered approach. upcycler extraordinaire, Max “I love finding inspiring artists designers and craftspeople McMurdo, started turning junk out there… A whole Sunday morning can be lost propped up on into treasure as a child, crafting pillows, following a productive Instagram trail or Pinterest route…” washing up liquid bottles into What does she love most about upcycling? “I simply find that spaceships! These days, he’s the old furniture for upcycling is better than the newer alternatives, a highly-influential, go-to TV unless you have a significantly-wealthy bank balance. There’s the presenter for product design and joy of finding for starters, then placing it in a room or imagining repurposing, personifying the how a client’s home would look with it, then plotting its new whole craft recycling ethos and guise. Never a moment is wasted on this kind of antique hunt!” presenting it in a way that inspires even the most eco-resistant z Twitter: 12.5k crafter. “I love that upcycling is accessible to everyone in some form, and is a positive, fun solution to our environmental Chris Billinghurst issues,” he tells me. The upcycling genius gives junk and cast-offs a completely z The House of Upcycling is the UK and new, and fantastic, lease of Ireland's leading authority on professional life by transforming them into upcycling for interiors, and what founder, exceptionally-useful products. Chris Billinghurst, doesn’t know about His Bedfordshire-based company sustainability really isn’t worth knowing! produce phenomenal pieces “In fact, we are the only association that supports artisans for brands with a conscience, working in this field, no matter what style or type of products are such as Marks & Spencer, for produced, as long as the focus is creating for commercial or whom he created branded trolley residential interiors,” she tells me. “We began life as chairs, and The Body Shop, who for landfill can be turned into alongside her on Channel 4’s ‘Fill #UpcycledHour, a Twitter hour created to support professional commissioned a bath chair treasures that are contemporary, Your House For Free’. Dubbing upcyclers, because back in 2014 when we launched, professional called ‘Anita’ after their great, stylish and desirable. him 'The Furniture Hacker', due upcycling was regularly misinterpreted and often misunderstood.” late founder, Anita Roddrick. By 2007, the recycling to his amazing ability to make Five years later, the House of Upcycling is now uniquely Having studied Product maestro had several design “something out of nothing,” placed within this new and exciting industry, but their aim remains Design and Visualisation at uni, awards under his upcycled Kirstie eventually handed over the same - to elevate the standards and status of professional he fulfilled his boyhood dream belt and featured in gallery the repurposing reins to Gok upcycling for interiors. and became an automobile exhibitions galore. No stranger Wan, seeing Max continue on Describing herself as “a cross between a librarian and a news designer in Germany. Max to our screens now, Max’s first the show with the gifted fashion desk”, the eco-chic ambassador and her team provide their kickstarted his career designing TV appearance saw him face guru’s team of upcycling experts, creative community with information, opportunities and options. cars in Cologne, where he the Dragons as he entered the including Jay Blades and Nessa “Working in partnership with the environment and wellbeing is observed the country’s efficiency BBC’s fiery ‘Dragons Den’ with Doran O'Reilly, encouraging often viewed by pro upcyclers as overly complicated, not always at reuse and recycling. This his company, plus a few of his Britain’s families to embrace effective, and difficult to achieve, so by offering them guidance German inspiration intervened, innovate products, including a saving the pennies, and the and alternative solutions, a new mindset is gradually developing, seeing him so inspired by carrier bag recycling bin, in hand. planet, through easy upcycling. but there is still a lot of work to be done.” beautiful items of waste that Quickly snapped up by the BBC To top it all off, Max has also Chris recently won the Female Business Leader Award at the he quit his job, purchased a Two BAFTA-nominated show’s seen success as an inspiring Blue Patch Sustainable Business Awards. “I was, of course, VW camper van, and returned investors Deborah Meaden author, releasing his successful delighted and extremely flattered as Blue Patch are an to the UK intent on creating and Theo Paphitis following book, ‘Upcycling’, published by organisation whose green credentials are respected within the a business utilising waste his perfect pitch, he coolly left Jacqui Small LLP, bursting with upcycling and design industries.” destined for landfill. ‘The Den’ £50k in backing better inspiring ideas and projects, The Blue Patch website offers a wide choice of In 2002, Max started up off. “I still keep in touch with and spawning a second, environmentally and wellbeing-friendly product and service his own company to design, their teams and families!” ‘Upcycling Outdoors’, which also options, and the company actively supports organisations whose engineer and manufacture Other credits include co- flew swiftly off the shelves. work involves reducing the negative effects of climate change. bespoke creations from junk, presenting Channel 4's hit show transforming trash into high- ‘Shed of the Year’, and a crafty z www.maxmcmurdo.co.uk z Twitter: 9,700 end furniture with the aim of Kirstie Allsopp soon snapped z Twitter @maxreestore : z Instagram: 3,800 proving that upcycled furniture, up natural presenter Max, too, 18.9K Followers z Facebook: 2,100 accessories and eco-friendly whisking him away to more z Instagram @maxreestore: z www.thehouseofupcycling.com products from objects destined sustainable TV stardom, working 11.6k followers

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Sara Davies – Crafter’s Companion z Highly respected amongst industry professionals as well as craft consumers, the founder of phenomenally-successful craft supplies company, Crafter’s Companion, Sara Davies, has been in our industry for nearly 15 years, having impressively grown her university bedroom-based business into a multi-million-pound empire. A force to be reckoned with, formidable businesswoman Sara this year entered The Den as the youngest-ever Dragon, joining investors Deborah Meaden, Peter Jones, Tej Lalvani, Touker Suleyman and Theo Paphitis on the 17th series of the hit BAFTA-nominated BBC Two show. “I’ve been a fan of the show since it started,” she says. “I was even invited to pitch in The Den 14 years ago, so it feels like I’ve come a full circle.” “Here at Crafter’s Companion, our environmental policy is to ensure that our operations will be carried out with a commitment to protecting and enhancing the environment where possible,” say Sarah. “As well as managing waste generated from business operations according to the principles of reduction, re-use and recycling, we’re trying to be as environmentally-friendly as possible and have measures in place to ensure that the business actively tries to reduce its environmental impact. This includes actively looking at ways we can reduce plastic use in our products across the board and we hope that this will reduce by a significant amount throughout the next couple of years.” z Sara’s Personal Social Media Stats: z Facebook: 29,446 z Twitter: 13,400 z Instagram: 13,800 z Crafter’s Companion on YouTube (main UK page): 41,200 z www.crafterscompanion.co.uk : www.crafterscompanion.com Patrick Wendy Turner Webster z Sustainability has long been a very important factor for craft and animal-lover Wendy Turner Webster of Crafty Beggars Grant fame and presenter of ‘Brits Rescue Romanian Dogs’, currently z Style icon and much-loved airing on Together TV. ‘Great British Sewing Bee’ “As a basic crafting ethos, I make the most of ‘junk’, and stop judge, Patrick Grant, is an it going where most junk goes… in the bin!” she tells me. The TV award-winning fashion designer presenter and animal rights campaigner is a patron of numerous and prestigious Savile Row animal charities. “As a vegan of 27 years, I don’t work with wool, tailor at the forefront of the silk, leather, feathers, bristle brushes, tallow etc. Having the vegan British and global menswear diet/lifestyle is one of the best things you can do for the stage. Having rejuvenated the environment. And the TV studio set of Crafty Beggars has always fortunes of Norton & Sons and been a ‘dead animals’-free zone, which I’m very proud of.” resurrected ready-to-wear label How does it feel to be an influencer, among those leading the E. Tautz, he’s bringing social way in environmentally-friendly craft practice? “I feel privileged to consciousness into fashion have a platform which lets me spread the word on such an with his community projects, important topic.” championing sustainability The potteries born and bred crafter specialises in mixed everywhere he sews. media projects which always include an element of upcycling. His ethos? “I work very hard, She adores working with clay and ceramics and, as an I care very deeply about the enthusiastic ‘artistic recycler’, making fabulous creations using product, how it’s made, what “all manner of ‘rubbish’ mixed with new materials”. She has a it’s made from and by whom.” particular skill for creating handmade one-off pieces. “Ceramics is In 2015, Patrick purchased a particular passion and I’m also passionate about getting the clothing manufacturer and crafting movement out there to as wide an audience as possible, sewing factory, Cookson & encouraging people to have a go at making something Clegg, and in 2016, launched the themselves. It’s a joy for me to play my part in getting the whole social enterprise, Community country crafting!” Clothing, to make sustainable What does she enjoy most about upcycling? “ I love the and ethical clothing affordable concept and process of turning junk into funk! There is something and create jobs, in response to incredibly satisfying about taking an item destined for the scrap the extreme challenges facing heap and turning it into something fabulous and/or useful. It’s the British clothing and textile also symbolic of the notion that we don’t have to be a ‘throwaway manufacturing industry. society’, and it reinforces the message that we can all benefit How’s his initiative and from just taking a moment to see the good in things rather than ethical label going? “Happily being instantly dismissive!” and fantastically! Three years Wendy also recently formed Team Crafty Beggars - a group of in, we’re selling a lot of great talented crafters who come together to provide workshops at the clothing, creating a lot of ICHF Creative Craft Show events. work, and we know from the wonderful emails and comments great new week on the series, see the industry evolving? z Twitter @CraftyBeggarsTV : 2.5k we get that our customers called ‘Reduce Reuse Recycle’, “Sustainability, ethics and z Twitter @turnerwebster : 3.6k appreciate what we’re doing.” focusing on one of the huge traceability are all big issues There’s no throwaway fashion issues facing the world of in the fashion world that have here – the project’s 'Odds and clothing right now, something only really become hot topics Ends' range consists of garments that I, personally, feel hugely in the last decade, and they’re that have been created using passionate about. We hoped only going to get hotter. Fashion surplus and deadstock fabrics it would encourage viewers is a three-trillion-dollar industry that would otherwise go unused, to think differently about their and the world’s second worst in order to reduce waste. clothing, and discover ways polluter. It has to change.” So, it ‘seamed’ fitting that in which we can all have a sustainability should be a big positive impact in this area.” z Twitter: @paddygrant : 34k theme on the Great British How does this top tailor z Instagram: @ patrickgrantism : Sewing Bee this year. “We had a with a passion for fashion 22k

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Novita z Offering responsibly-made Nordic unique Nordic design, when it comes How does it feel to be a yarns and designs since 1928, today to sustainable practices, they’re an sustainability influencer, among those Novita is the largest manufacturer enviable example of how crafters leading the way in this area in the of hand knitting yarns in the Nordic can help the environment. “Most of craft world? “We are just so happy countries, and publishes more than Novita’s products are made mainly if someone is influenced by us and 200 knitting patterns a year, alongside of wool which, in itself, is a natural, then acts in different and sustainable inspiring makers to create and share. sustainable and biodegradeble way to save nature. Making your own Daniela Yrjö-Koskinen, CEO of the material and also very easy care, as clothes from yarn, instead of buying company, says they are committed to it doesn’t need ironing or washing. factory-made clothes, is a sustainable reducing the environmental load of its Most of the time, simply airing it choice, and Novita works hard to operations to a minimum, and invests out in fresh air is enough. Quality, maintain the tradition of handicrafts.” heavily in renewable energy sources in responsible manufacturing and A few trends are influencing their production facilities to be as energy genuine natural raw material have Novita's sustainable offering. “We’re efficient as possible. “Sustainability is become even more important to following new innovations and the close to our heart, and nature itself an us and also to our consumers.” development of other ecological raw endless source of our inspiration. We The company also collaborates materials very closely. For example, want to act in such way that our carbon with charitable causes close to their Ioncell and Tencel are both made footprint is as minimal as possible. hearts. “This year, we’re working with of cellulosic fibres of botanic origin So far, we have been doing quite well the WWF (World Wide Fund for Nature) and Econyl is made of regenerated with it. Our sustainability vision for to protect to the Arctic’s nature and nylon. We’re investigating the 2020 is that our factory in Finland will animals. I´m proud to say that we’ve possibility of using these ecological be carbon neutral, and our long-term sold over 160,000 balls of Novita fibres in some of our products.” sustainability vision is that all of our Napapiiri yarn, and with that earned products will be made of renewable 16,500 euros as a donation to WWF. z Facebook: novitaknits 39K or recyclable material by 2030.” Since the campaign has been so z Instagram: novitaknits 28K Using the finest materials to successful, we’ve decided to continue z Pinterest: 4.5K produce exquisite quality yarns and the campaign until the end of this year.” z www.novitaknits.com

Lisa Marie Olsen - Tigerlily Makes

z Award-winning ‘feltrepreneur’ and founder It’s important to me that and Creative Director of Tigerlily Makes, Lisa I do as much as I can to Marie Olson produces beautiful felted work reduce my footprint whilst with a fresh, timeless and classic style. The delivering high-quality kits.” independent Midlands-based sewist and designer The sustainability has impressive sustainability credentials, and message she would like to is super-hot on using non wool-felt and vegan- shout about. “My message friendly materials. “I feel incredibly proud to be would be not everything has able to contribute in some small way. It’s not to be about the bottom line. easy being sustainable and purse friendly as a There are affordable solutions to going green, one-person enterprise when you’re up against with things like recycled packaging, tissue paper, large companies and their buying power.” bags and tapes and more, so just do what you Lisa Marie recently joined Sisters can. Customers are usually willing to pay a few Against Plastic, a group of women leading pence more if it helps the sustainability campaign. Hannah the way on sustainability issues. Talk to the eco-friendly companies and try to work Big on biodegradable packaging, Lisa recently together for the common good of all industry Read-Baldrey had an interesting exchange on Twitter on the sectors, and help each other with cross promotion subject, after someone jumped to conclusions to raise public awareness. It’s great to see so z Sensational stylist, about the packaging she had photographed. “It’s much innovation and the craft industry thriving, photographic set designer, a lesson, really, for us all to think before we type. but if we don’t protect the planet then we may multi-crafter, TV presenter and I have to package fibre for workshops in fresh not have the luxury of sustaining our passion.” bestselling craft author with clean cello bags for many reasons; to keep it Pavilion, Hannah Read-Baldrey clean, prevent moisture or water getting to it, for z Facebook: 2.7k has often worked with Kirstie transportation, to stop it getting tangled and for z Twitter: 1.5k Allsopp on her TV shows, easy colour selection. I hadn’t mentioned that z YouT ube: 2.34K subscribers with videos including the recently-aired ‘Celebrity Craft Masters’ series. the bags were biodegradable, and it started a receiving up to 478,000 views A craft ambassador for Hobbycraft, which has launched whole conversation thread about sustainability. z www.tigerlilymakes.co.uk biodegradable alternatives, including a craft bio-glitter for children's use, Hannah is hot on helping with more sustainable ways for customers to craft. “I feel like the need for sustainability and responsibly-sourced product is not only a trend, but a necessity. Brands that are stopping using plastic glitter, for example, are helping to contribute to this plight. The trend for crafters to work with upcycling materials, such as household plastics and furniture, is lovely to see, too. I can only expect us to see more of this.” Hannah this year launched MakeBox+Co., a unique monthly box of creative projects for adults and children in collaboration with talented artists and designers and delivered directly to your door. She says sustainability really is a goal she considers every time she designs a MakeBox. “We’ve used everything from bamboo crochet hooks to natural fabrics for our projects. Our boxes and printed materials are all made from recycled card and are recyclable. Any plastic bags we use are made from recycled plastic, and we are actually moving to biodegradable paper in the new year to replace these completely. Even the designs are built to last. They are not cheap throwaway projects - they are designed to be used and loved. We found there were a lot of craft kits out there that contained projects that were quick and cheap. Our view is if you’ve put all that effort into making something it should blimmin’ well last!”

z Instagram @couturecraft: 11.2k z Instagram @makebox.co: 9k z www.makebox.co

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Jane Means Kirstie Allsopp z Want to wrap like a pro? z Synonymous with the word ‘handmade’, the Queen of Craft Britain’s gift wrap guru, Jane needs no introduction. The popular presenter is not only an Means, has wrapped for the authority on property, but also on all things craft. Instrumental in Queen, Victoria Beckham and The helping to push craft back into the limelight, home-loving Kirstie Beatles! The princess of presents’ has worked with the crème de la crème of crafters, learning and “classic, quirky and understated” showcasing countless crafts and techniques along the way, and style has made her the go-to skyrocketing creative makers to craft stardom through her gift wrapping favourite for THE inspirational and delightful ‘Handmade’ shows for Channel 4. most discerning of clients. Adding seasonal sparkle to everyone’s Christmas, the most Dividing her time between wonderful time of the year sees back-to-back repeats of her London and Singapore, the beloved ‘Kirstie's Handmade Christmas’ series, alongside treating designer and superstar wrapper’s us to brand-new episodes every festive season. been providing luxury gift The much-loved TV personality with a passion for patterns, wrapping services for charities, upcycling and all things British has produced a wonderful range of A-listers, businesses and leading craft kits for Aldi, having collaborated with AVEC, the market leader brands, from Chanel and Dior, in creative compilation kits. “My passion for all things to YSL and Ralph Lauren, for home and handmade is at the heart of my craft over 20 years. The gift wrapping kits,” Kirstie tells me. “I love working with specialist and advisor also skilled artisans to develop new and designs ribbon and gift wrap inspiring craft projects, which have been collections, which are sold carefully designed to be perfect for worldwide, and offers bespoke everyone, from complete beginners to filming packages, alongside experienced crafters.” design and consultancy services. Britain’s favourite celebrity crafter’s Her phenomenal portfolio and reuse,” she says. “The Jane’s beautiful gift wrap love affair with handmade embraces now boasts successful services craft industry is renowned for has been designed with the everything from vintage to hot-off-the- for diverse clients, from high upcycling, recycling and using environment in mind. “The press craft innovations. From re-using, street stalwart WHSmith, up remnants and off-cuts for a reversible paper is UK made, restoring and upcycling, to avant-garde supermarket chain Aldi and variety of craft projects and, in our 100 per cent recyclable and is techniques, she shows us how to Arsenal Football Club, to own business, we have very little even FSC graded so they know transform vintage into modern-day transport giant Eurostar, credit rubbish which ends up in landfill. what tree it has even come treasures using a range of crafting PEAKDALE 1.8 2 COL_CRAFT BIZ 06/11/2019 09:44 Page 1 card company American Express, “We recycle all envelopes, from! All of the ink is vegetable skills and practices, as well as how the BAFTA film awards, and high- boxes and filling. All of our based and the printing press to create unique and beautiful end boutiques Jo Malone, Aqua empty ribbon spools are used is CO2 neutral. As well as our makes from scratch. The Devon di Parma and Crème de la Mer. for press loans and samples own gift wrap, I've designed and West London-based Known as the "Gift Wrap and our off cuts of ribbon and bespoke collections for Fenwick small-screen star firmly feels Guru”, Jane appeared on ITV gift wrap are often used on our and Fortnum and Mason.” that nothing shows how much London News showcasing workshops. It's great to see that you love someone more than her eco-friendly wrapping and retailers and brands are now z Insta @janemeans: 8k a handmade gift, card or covering #ecofriendly tips. “I've putting climate change at the z Twitter @janemeans: 7.9k decoration. From bath bombs always been keen to recycle forefront of their products.” z www.janemeans.com and soaps, to lip balms and wreaths, her creative kits with AVEC make crafting as easy as pie. “With everything you need to get started and a AVEC UK comprehensive how-to, even z As one of only 3,000 UK-based complete beginners will feel FSC certified companies, Avec confident to pick one up,” she takes sustainability seriously, says. and has implemented ethical measures from the ground up. z Twitter “We are focused and proficient in @KirstieMAllsopp: 407k ethical manufacturing, operating z Instagram @ to the highest standards, which kirstiemallsopp: 172k our global customers demand. z Facebook: 91k We are in the process of carbon offsetting our business, which we hope to complete in 2020,” reveals Becks Beere, founder and manager of AVEC. “We’re removing plastics and offering sustainable options to all our customers for core and promotional items. Our Corporate Social Responsibility Manager is our champion, and a few years ago, we invested in in-house expertise, as ethical sourcing has to be something our customers take for granted, so they can work has every trend covered, and sustainable business on the challenges of retailing in continuously adapting to the practices are the challenges the current climate of change!” changing need and trend within that we are can all focus on.” A leading partner for DTR the retail landscape. Its design As for the trends coming license management and private and product development through with sustainable label within craft, hobby, gift and “rockstars” are hugely customer creations, she says, “upcycling stationery, spanning Europe, and culture driven, and produce and ‘traditional’ crafts have North and South America and not only Kirstie Allsopp-branded definitely continued to see a Australia, Avec specialises in goods, but also on-trend Disney, resurgence among all ages, arts and craft supplies, home WB, Harry Potter, Cath Kidston, with a move away from fast decoration, gifts and wrap Paddington, Batman and fashion, resulting in learning accessories and stationery. The Superman, among many others. sewing skills being greatly licensing company develops Becks says the craft industry valued among the younger creative products for countless is lucky in that the finished demographic. Vegan and all- retail chains. From dies and results of crafters’ hard work natural ingredients, along with doorstops and fabric charms are likely to be treasured for using recycled textiles and other and fat quarters, to stamps and years to come, rather than soon materials, remain desirable.” stationery and cross stitch and ending in landfill. “Focussing candles, this creative company on raw materials, packaging z www.avecuk.com

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Isabella Strambio Rebecca Cahill Roots – z Self-taught macramé maker and a finalist in the eco-friendly category, Betty Etiquette natural dye artist, Isabella Strambio, and also as a finalist for the People’s is a massive advocate for Choice award. Twenty thousand z Calligrapher sustainability and crafting in people applied for the Etsy award extraordinaire, Picture credit: Katherine Leedale an environmentally-friendly way. worldwide! I was very proud, and it Rebecca Cahill Using 100 per cent recycled string for gave me the motivation to keep Roots, runs London- her macramé makes, and food waste concentrating on more sustainable based stationery and for her natural dyeing, in Isabella’s work.” design studio Betty house no tea, coffee, carrots or Isabella’s beautiful new book with Etiquette. avocado skins or stones, end up in Search Press, ‘Macramé for the Celebrating the the bin! Modern Home’, featuring 16 stunning power of putting pen Her work has even been projects using simple knots and to paper with her published in The Sunday Telegraph. natural dyes, publishes next April. hand-designed “Since my article was published in “The book is something different greeting cards, The Sunday Telegraph last year, I’ve from the usual macramé book, as I stationery and paper been asked to run macramé have combined macramé and natural And her tips for going green in products, she workshops at Facebook, Moo, dyeing together. I’ve also tried to add the craft industry? “I think it’s a must teaches workshops Beyond, Nandos and Creative new projects to the classic planter as an artist and crafter to be more for Liberty of London Debuts.” and wall-hanging, and there will be sustainable. With a bit of research, and her own brand, as The half-Italian, half-Japanese tutorials suitable for beginners to you can find many sustainable yarns well as creating bespoke stationery and creative crafter moved to the UK at 18 to learn advanced skill levels. I can’t wait to and products that can replace your commissions for events such as weddings, and English and study Interior Design. share it!” current materials. Sometimes you marketing and editorial. She started her blog, twome.co.uk, to She’s also influenced by other need to be creative to make it work Established by husband and wife team, Rebecca & document her personal journey to eco-crafters. “A few of my favourite - you might have to recycle or find David Cahill Roots, Betty Etiquette features Rebecca’s learn 12 new crafts in 12 months, and sustainability influencers to follow second-hand products, while at other whimsical hand-painted designs, creating stationery for now runs macramé workshops, are @mamalinauk @zerowastchica times, you might have to pay more storytellers, illustrated stationery for handwritten events and team-building classes in and @notbuyingnew.” Isabella has for them, but in my opinion, it’s the correspondence and passionate post. London and across the UK. also collaborated with other big only way. The esteemed calligrapher is committed to Her Naturally-Dyed Japanese creative influencers, including sustainability, with all products printed in the UK and Apron saw her a finalist for the Etsy @machedavvero, @aliceandrosa, z Pinterest unique viewers: 335k assembled by hand in their studio, using FSC-certified Design Award earlier this year. “I was @twiggstudios and @silvia_ z Instagram: 9.3k paper stock and working with environmentally- extremely honoured to be selected as salvialimone. z www.twome.co.uk responsible suppliers and printers. “As a calligrapher, reducing my paper use and finding sustainable alternatives has been a big change,” she says. “But there are brilliant new materials out there if you research Richard Moross everywhere. The company focuses them, like the G.F.Smith Extract paper range made from on helping its customers create, old coffee cups. Looking at how personalisation of - MOO share or promote their professional items reduces sustainability has been a big change for z Need new business cards? identity and has subsequently me. I have brought most of my printing back in-house Known for its unique design and become one of the fastest growing and moved the rest to a local printer so I can visit easily inventive products, digital print and print businesses in the world, with and work closely to control the materials used.” design company, MOO, has made over a million businesses served Rebecca’s latest book, ‘Brush Lettering’, published by recycled cotton paper business in over 200 countries in the last Batsford, Pavilion, has enjoyed “a great first few weeks” cards a thing! The tree-free paper two years. Just check out their since it was launched last month. that the design, technology and whopping social media stats below! Rebecca’s influenced by a few other manufacturing company has created Moo also offers greeting cards, environmentally-friendly crafters. “I’m really inspired by is made entirely out of cotton T-shirt iconic item of clothing. The story invitations, notebooks, compliment Christine Leach from SewYeah and Alicia Hall from offcuts, a waste product of the is typical of MOO, where all our slips, packaging and more, not Botanical Threads for the way in which they have garment industry, creating a new ideas come from a love of great forgetting inspiration in spades! embraced sustainability in their work. As with everything paper for a new kind of connection. materials, innovative techniques MOO’s blog is a one-stop-shop for on my small business journey, working sustainably feels “At MOO, we’re always looking for and the desire to create something brilliant designs, inspiring stories, like something I’m just at the beginning of, and I have so new ways to reimagine the classics, different for our customers.” useful tips on branding, growing your much to learn! I’m trying to make changes and learn combining age-old techniques Launched in 2006, MOO aims to business and insightful interviews. from others, but sustainability has to be an ongoing with cutting-edge design thinking disrupt the trillion-dollar global print investigation as we all learn more about the damage and technology,” says Richard industry by combining the values of z Facebook: 872k we’re doing, and the most effective ways to fix it.” Moross, MOO’s founder and CEO. professional design with accessibility z Instagram @MOO: 222k “With Cotton, we’re attempting and reach of the web, making z Twitter: @moo: 104k z www.bettyetiquette.co.uk to create a new classic out of an great design available to everyone, z www.moo.com/cotton z Instagram @bettyetiquette: 8.5k z www.bettyetiquette.co.uk Jay Blades – Jay & Co z When it comes to ‘rubbish’, nonsense upcycler says it’s disengaged and disadvantaged His message to Craft Business not much waste can escape the endless possibilities of young people over the years, and readers? “I think the importance Jay Blade’s crafty repurposing design that he loves most works with Wolverhampton-based of sustainability is key, as the fingers. “I recycle almost about upcycling and bringing a project, Project Give, which deals great David Attenborough says, it’s everything, where I’m able to, and fresh approach to furniture and with period properties, along with about identifying that we need to reuse it all!” he tells me. “I recycle accessories. “The best thing about the Heritage Crafts Association, be sustainable to save the planet! my sandpaper by hoovering it, upcycling is turning something who invited Jay to deliver a talk, Everyone in the craft industry so that I can use it time and time that people see as rubbish into ‘Making is Good for You’, at their needs to also look at what they again. I use single-use plastic to something contemporary and conference, showcasing how can reuse and turn from rubbish wash my brushes, and then wash cool that people then want.” to transform dusty old furniture into something beautiful, or even that plastic and reuse it. My goal Jay’s first foray into TV into works of art and modern donate your rubbish, is to try and throw away next to saw him appear alongside design. “This was a real honour, as everyone needs someone nothing, and so that is what I do!” Kirstie Allsopp, before he went and a nice chance to talk about else’s waste! So, we The furniture designer and on to star with her ‘property’ how I bring a contemporary need circular economy, award-winning community sidekick, Phil Spencer. He’s twist to heritage crafts.” which means that leader’s interest in interiors also appeared alongside fellow He also writes an inspiring everything is reused!” started when furnishing his first expert Max McMurdo on ‘Gok journal on his website. “I feel flat with no money, seeing him Wan’s Fill Your House For Free’. honoured to be called an influencer, z Instagram: become inspiringly inventive He’s the presenter of BBC but I have to say, it’s very weird @jay_n_co: 30.7k with bricks, milk bottles, One’s huge hit shows ‘The Repair to be called an influencer, as I’m z Facebook: 20k crates and washing lines. Shop’ and ‘Money for Nothing’. just doing what I feel like we all z Twitter: The founder and director Jay has been a huge source should be doing, which is leave @Jay_n_Co: 15.7k of Jay & Co, the nation’s no- of motivation for thousands of this planet how we found it!” z www.jayand.co Picture credit: Amy Brathwaite

www.craftbusiness.com INTERVIEW 23

Putting the spotlight on the positive and the outrageous Textile artist Jen Cable talks to us about her art, life and exhibition at the The Knitting & Stitching Show - An Ideal Woman?

z From your exhibition – An its possibilities – yet so many amount of materials needed. Ideal Woman? Can you give women are put off maths or Engineering is about problem us an overview of what science as for some reason in solving, turning ideas into we can expect to see? the UK there is a view that girls reality. In that sense it is just For the last five years I’ve been aren’t good at maths, which is like dress making or knitting. making pieces that capture far from the truth. Engineering Engineering also shows up the good and bad advice I’ve touches every aspect of our in my choice of materials – I’m received about being a woman. lives – from access to electricity, just as comfortable working My gallery space is a bit like to the way we travel about or with wire as I am with wool a collection of short stories; in the way we communicate or willow. I like mixing the each one using a different long- distance. I love pushing techniques too – so maybe textile approach to explore a the boundaries of what is using rivets at the same time as suggested ideal of femininity. I possible, and encouraging knots. This mixing of different love drawing attention to both others to do the same. approaches tells the viewer the outrageous and positive about my artistic development, suggestions and am really z You are both a qualified as well as the views I hold. looking forward to hearing what mechanical engineer and conversations my work sparks. an applied and fine artist. z You grew up in a creative it. In fact, without What would you say your family – your mother was a curiosity, invention and z Much of your work challenges career as an engineer calligrapher and your father imagination the human the portrayal of women and brings to your artwork? a craft metal worker – and I race would probably have femininity in myths, legends, When I was studying basketry, believe you stitched, knitted died out years ago. But I also fairy tales and the modern my classmates were always and crocheted your own know that I owe an enormous media. How important are turning to me when complex clothes as a child. Do you think amount to my teachers and textiles as a medium for patterns needed working creativity is in our genes or is it YouTube. Being exposed to difference to my thinking and the you to make your art? out – such as trying to something that can be learned? art/craft, seeing others make range of techniques I can use. Textiles are where I feel most at turn twill weaving into 3D Creativity takes so many and learning from those with home – it’s where my making shapes, and in calculating the forms, I believe we all have expertise has made a huge z Your work includes elements began. Unlike many other of stitch, knit, weaving and, artists I never really enjoyed more recently, basketry. Is drawing/painting. I like the there a textile craft that you’ve feel of the materials, and the not yet used in your work that endless possibilities of shape you’d like to explore more? and form that fibre art offers. At the moment I’m obsessed with I first learnt to knit, stitch and machine knitting and there is so crochet as a child, taught by my much more I want to explore here; mother. She made me the most such as punch cards and short amazing outfits and encouraged row shaping. I’ve also got some me to learn to do the same. The ideas that involve learning peyote first piece I ever knitted was a beading. Just the other day I came bright orange tie that I gave to across a great way to soften tree my Dad at Christmas when I was bark for stitch, so that has opened about six. I was so disappointed up a new avenue of possibilities. when he didn’t immediately wear I’m a bit of a magpie – always it – but was delighted by him looking for interesting techniques, telling me that he was saving ideas and approaches. One it to wear to work as it was so of the great things about the special. It wasn’t until I was well show is the range of people, into my thirties that I realised “I like the feel of the materials, and the materials and projects. So I’m that he didn’t wear ties to work. endless possibilities of shape and form that sure I’ll come across lots more techniques that I’m desperate z Do you consider yourself to fibre art offers” to learn before it’s over. be a craft activist or protest artist and what do you want z What projects are you planning to say through your work? next after your gallery at The With the rise of social media Knitting & Stitching Shows? everyone has much more I just finished an amazing book opportunity to influence the world about Circe; nymph, sorceress around them and call for change. and potion maker. She was a There are many aspects of life feisty, independent woman with that I would like to see improve, the ability to transform others. for example attitudes to women There’s definitely a fibre art or climate change. I’m hoping project or two simmering in my to trigger thoughts and action in subconscious in her honour. those who come to the show, so Jen Cable’s exhibition, we can jointly create the kind of An Ideal Woman?, is at The world we want to live in and not Knitting & Stitching Show at be trapped by outdated beliefs. Harrogate Convention Centre, I studied engineering Harrogate, from November because I was fascinated by 28 - December 1, 2019.

www.craftbusiness.com 24 INTERVIEW

A long history of innovation and quality fabrics for embroidery such cross-stitch industry covers Bastian Wollmann, Zweigart Sales Director, explains the history as Evenweaves and linens in quite diverse parts of the market finer counts have become more from retailers to manufacturing of the company, their success and plans for 2020 and beyond popular and common in sales. companies, designers, teachers and schools and many more. z WHAT CAN WE EXPECT A field which developed very z TELL US ABOUT THE z HOW IS ZWEIGART FROM ZWEIGART IN 2020? positively is the online selling HISTORY OF ZWEIGART? DEVELOPING AND Firstly - Zweigart will be at through webshops, platforms Zweigart was founded in 1877 GROWING? Craft, Hobby & Stitch again or clients own websites. and we do have a long history Zweigart’s business has been in 2020 and present exciting of over 140 years – making performing very well over the novelties! We are constantly z TO WHAT DO YOU us the oldest continuous past years and increasing its working on new ideas and ATTRIBUTE YOUR manufacturer of needlework core business with needlework fabrics as well as adding trendy SUCCESS? fabrics in the industry. The fabrics/canvases. Due to the colours to our collection. New I think a big part of our success, company was founded by Paul closure of companies also needlework books with themes the most important part of our Zweigart and Julius Sawitzki working in this field – Zweigart’s like “Sweet Love” and a brand philosophy, is quality. People – so the brand name Zweigart position has been strengthened new edition of our well known put a lot of trust in our brand. has been kept throughout. and our sales remain on a high Zweigart designers booklet will Furthermore our products are Since the beginning, Zweigart level and are increasing in 2019. be presented as well. Overall a manufactured in accordance has been a producer of high- We are lucky to have a broad beautiful choice of new colours, with very high industrial and quality fabrics for needlework base of customers in different fabrics and ideas will be very environmental standards in and embroidery purposes and parts of the world and this is interesting for our clients Germany when producing has a long tradition in weaving also a stabilising factor for and any interested visitor! textiles. Sustainability is a big products, such as Aida fabrics the overall business. A small Zweigart sells its products word across all industries but at or specialized canvas qualities. and flexible organization and worldwide – so there is constant Zweigart we live it everyday and Zweigart invented the Aida production unit makes it easy change in the business in some take good care of our resources. weave in 1907 and has been for us to react to customer position and further expand our countries or regions of the world Another big part of our success producing Aida fabrics for wishes and individualize products collection with new and exciting – due to economic reasons and is a one-of-a-kind range of over 110 years. Zweigart has according to their needs. fabrics and ideas to come! recent changes in trends for the fabrics for needlework that is been selling products in other demand in fabrics. We have to unprecedented around the globe. countries since the early 20th z HOW HAS THE LAST 12 z WHAT PRODUCTS react flexibly to such changes. We try to offer very good stock century and exports to over 75 MONTHS BEEN FOR YOU? WERE THE MOST Looking closer at the UK availability and also provide a very countries. Today the company Quite successful – we have POPULAR IN 2019? market - we must say that we good service level for our clients. is owned by the third generation gained a lot of additional Since we offer a very big faced a constant growth over of the Family Georgii, with a very business in the UK and also in collection this is difficult to the past five years. Years ago z HOW CAN A NEW positive outlook for the future! the US market, which is further specify – but we can say all one of our most important CUSTOMER OPEN strengthening our brand and our the new items have been quite wholesale partners went out AN ACCOUNT? z WHAT PRODUCTS DO leading position in the industry. I successful – new prints on our of business and from that day Just get in contact with us and YOU SPECIALISE IN? think this also has to do with the linens like “Belfast Sparkle” or on we decided to change our send your business registration, Zweigart offers a very unique specialisation of our company “Murano Splash” were very well strategy and make our fabrics we will then be happy to supply range of specialized fabrics in premium needlework fabrics received and also punch needle directly available for retailers all relevant information and set and a broad range of counts and offering a unique product has become quite trendy again! without having to buy from a up an account for you! Also and colours. All our fabrics range in the sections of canvas, Zweigart also offers specialized local wholesaler. This has the we can support digital and are “straight and square“ evenewaves, Aida fabrics and fabrics for this technique like advantage that customers printed data of any kind as well and can be embroidered on high-quality Linens. We can the famous Monk’s Cloth can access the vast range of as sample materials to test directly. This unique product proudly say, that nowadays, there series. We can also see that Zweigart fabrics from our stock and check with clients. It is of portfolio is impressive not is no company around the world and production in Germany and great importance to support only for designers but also that would match our offer or so also steadily increasing the our clients and also find the for manufacturing partners come even close to this selection. range of embroidery fabrics right products for their needs. and retail/wholesale clients, We will do our best to stay offered in the market. In addition Any assistance needed – we as well as online-resellers. innovative to keep this leading we must mention that the will be happy to provide it!

www.craftbusiness.com PROMOTION 25 Get your Christmas off to a great start with Groves Lou Merry, Groves Product Development Manager, looks at what the festive season has to offer retailers

z It's the most wonderful time of the year! Well it can be if you approach it in the right way. So what's going to be hot this Christmas? z LET'S GET PERSONAL One of the trends we always get behind is personalisation. Everyone loves making and, even better, receiving a personalised gift. We have a number of letter and number blanks for all types of gifting and celebrations. Our wooden letter scrabble tiles and die cut letters and numbers, allow you to spell out a name or message of your choice. We crafters execute a number of stock a host of other card/wood/ fashionable designs. Our newly- “Everyone loves making and, even better, fabric blanks for your own design launched range of ‘Crafts for receiving a personalised gift” statement, such as wooden Christmas’ 2019 include glitter cross stitch boxes, flag banners stars and snowflakes, advent z PUT A KNOT IN IT like to add new elements to their introduce the kids to new hobbies and pennants, blank wooden numbers and sparkly Christmas Macramé – a perceived spring existing wreaths, and others prefer over the festive holidays. hanging decorations, tags and trees, which are perfect for or summery craft, this knot tying to start from scratch and make keepsakes. Our customers Christmas card makers. relaxing craft is just perfect an entirely new design each year. z NEW FOR YOU add their own twist on their for making decorations and Even with natural floral and fauna, This Christmas, we have an handmade gifts. Why not run a z PACKING A PUNCH gifts over the festive period. it’s always nice to finish with exciting range of new products workshop to demonstrate what Punch needling continues to grow It has come to be considered wired edge ribbon, bows, robins, that will wow your customers. a variety of techniques can be and 2020 will see the launch of as a really important ‘mindful berries, bells and poinsettias. Who wouldn't want to make their used. Follow Groves social media complete kits, within the Groves craft’, with the repetitive and Our ‘Occasions range’ of own Advent Calendar and give it pages on Facebook (https:// (in-house designed) Trimits rhythmic technique a relaxing natural items, many used on their personal touch? We stock www.facebook.com/GrovesLtd/) brand - watch this space! For way to unwind. Head to our wreaths, are perfect for Christmas ‘make your own advent calendar and Instagram (https://www. now we have all the ingredients website https://www.grovesltd. Day decorating. We have mini ribbon’ for those fancying a instagram.com/grovesltd/) where you will need to start this needle co.uk and search Macramé green wreaths which make festive sewing challenge and we post new projects daily. craft, punch needle tooling in a for hundreds of possibilities. wonderful personalised table also a fully filled Hemline Advent variety of shapes and sizes to suit So those are the trends settings for napkin rings and Calender, a great treat for the z GETTING CUTE your chosen yarn and a number that we at Groves think are wooden slices for place names. sewer in your life. We also now Novelty animal themes also of suitable needlecraft fabrics going to be at the top of the Customising ‘accessory stock a number of options of continue to drive sales. Unicorns, to support the needle chosen. Christmas list this year. But how blanks’ remains popular as social advent calendar numbers (1-24) Sloths, Pugs, Llamas, Bees and For any hints and tips on needle can retailers make the most of media has hugely influenced the out of paper, felt and wood. Dachshunds are all favourites punching, please visit Groves the Christmas period, entice art of occasion planning. Our We also boast a huge range and high on the wish list for media platforms on Facebook customers and maximise profits? Occasions range stocks favour of Christmas motifs – for festive festive crafters. Our ‘Crafts for and Instagram for further project boxes and table name stands. jumper making and personalising Occasions' range help paper ideas and free downloads. z DO IT YOURSELF Craft kits work for us all stockings and presents. Groves provide all the ingredients year round, but they particularly And let's not forget ALAN PROVISORto make your 1.8 3own COL_ADS gifts and 19/09/2019 popular11:02 Page at Christmas, 1 in the Groves-designed Christmas decorations. We’ve seen great spirit of making decorations for ribbons at super prices, playful demand this year for wreaths and the home and tree or as a gift festive dinosaurs and llamas wreath trims. Many designers for a loved one. It’s also nice to for the young at heart!

Great collection of trimmings for furnishing craft and sewing including braids, cords, tassels and piping along with a full haberdashery range, visit website for more details

www.4trimmings.com | 0844 9109711 | [email protected]

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Hours As... 24 Marion Emberson Marion Emberson, Creative Consultant for WOW!, tells us about her day

z YOUR DAY jacket potato or soup, perfect in find I start thinking up ideas, so I What time do you wake up and this chilly weather. Washed down have to write them down to get what does your pre-work routine with a bar of chocolate LOL !!! them out my head look like? I generally wake up around 4am, z How does a typical afternoon z A BIT ABOUT YOU not because I want to, I've just take shape? How did you come to work in never slept much !! If I'm not on a conference call I your current position? work on projects for up coming Some years ago, I had a scrap z You get into work – what shows and events. book store and does a typical morning look stocked WOW! like for you? z What time do you leave? And after seeing First thing I check is my emails what kinds of things do you like them at a trade and then work my way through to get up to in the evening? show. I got them. My work day is 8.30am - 5pm, I mesmerised by try and switch off in the evenings, the colours, it z What time do you take lunch, I find TV helps me relax. quickly became and what do you do on your one of my best lunch break? What do you z Finally, what time do you sellers due to its typically eat? typically go to bed on a work versatility. I got GORILLAIf GLUE I have 1.2_CRAFT a lunch, it depends BIZ 05/11/2019 how 10:57night? Page 1 asked by WOW! if I busy the day is, I usually eat I usually hit the pillow around would teach for around 12.30pm-1pm, I'm trying 10pm-10.30pm, it doesn't take them, and then to be good (ha ha) so go for a me long to fall asleep!! I usually when I closed my

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“It’s fabulous sharing different ways to use our products and even better when you get to see other people’s creations” shop, they asked if I would come work for them and the rest, as they say, is history. z What advice would you have for someone looking to get into your particular industry? Stay true to yourself, persevere and don't be afraid to submit your projects/designs to companies. Social Media can be your best friend to build up a following and get noticed. z What are the best parts of your job? I love the teaching side of things and going to the shows, I get to travel and teach in the USA, Europe and the UK, I get to meet so many amazing people, it's a real privilege. It’s fabulous sharing different ways to use our products and even better when you get to see other people’s creations. z What are the most challenging parts of your job? We do a few trade shows and like to show the new products and how best to use them, but when I have a deadline and I haven't designed anything, panic sets in, but I always seem to pull it out the bag in the end, I think that's what adrenaline does for you. The class preparation can be very time consuming, so getting ahead is the key. z What does 2020 hold for you? 2020 is looking very exciting, we have a lot of NEW things in the pipeline, these will all be revealed at Creativation in Phoenix and Paperworld in Frankfurt. Since WOW! came into the industry back in 2007 it’s gone from strength to strength, not without a lot of hard work, but that hard work has really paid off, we’ve become the Brand leader in Embossing Powder. Something we’re very proud of

www.craftbusiness.com 28 INTERVIEW

history and a culture of striving winner Claire Gelder. She to be the best. I’ve simply tried uses recycled cloth to fill Innovation, quality to maintain that. I believe in the toys rather than bought hard work while having fun toy stuffing. All our print is and in surrounding myself on paper from sustainable with talented individuals. sources and we’re looking for and a big year ahead more eco-friendly packaging z WHAT ADVICE WOULD in our warehouse. We’re not YOU OFFER TO RETAILERS? there yet but we’re trying. It’s a challenging retail David Grant, Search Press Director of Sales and environment. Ten years ago, z WHAT ARE YOU independent booksellers were CURRENTLY Marketing, talks about the company, the ethos disappearing, but now indies WORKING ON? NEW are opening again. That’s LAUNCHES, ETC? behind the brand and their plans for the future down to the passion and Prior to Christmas we’re expertise of the staff. Other promoting fabulous new retailers can learn from this. titles including Debbie Shore’s Build a Bag Satchels and z CAN YOU TELL US monthly projects and direct activity. We’ve developed z WHAT SERVICES Backpacks. We’ve great THE HISTORY OF access to Debbie. Profitable in celebratory branding and AND SUPPORT DO YOU books next year too, including SEARCH PRESS? its own right, it also promotes we’ll be running competitions OFFER RETAILERS WHO The Addictive Sketcher from Charlotte (Lotti) de la Bedoyere Debbie’s books and other and giveaways throughout. STOCK YOUR BOOKS? The One Show’s Adebanji founded Search Press in relevant Search Press titles. Independent retailers are Alade; Wendy Gardiner’s London in 1970. In the 80s z HOW HAS THE MARKET important to us. We’ve reps who Take Two Fat Quarters we moved to our current z WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO CHANGED IN THE can visit, phone or email. We’ve series and Jenniffer Taylor’s premises in Tunbridge Wells. BRING NEW AUTHORS LAST FIVE YEARS? a user- friendly trade website Your Skirt, Your Way. Lotti’s son Martin joined in TO THE MARKET AND The internet still dominates and a great range of POS. We’ve 1997 and is MD to this day. HOW DO YOU DEVELOP how people consume content authors who will do demos, z HOW IMPORTANT IS We’re excited to be celebrating BOOKS WITH THEM? and buy products. While an and as a publisher, wholesaler SOCIAL MEDIA TO YOU? our 50th birthday next year. We look for authors at the top of online presence is vital, we and distributor, we simply have It’s massively important and their art or craft who can instruct support bricks and mortar the best books available. we’re constantly exploring z HOW ARE YOU others and inspire creativity. We’ll retailers. We know that when new ways to use it. It helps us DEVELOPING AND often spot a gap in the market people flick through a physical z WHAT TRENDS DO connect with our customers, GROWING? and then source appropriate book, they’re more inclined YOU PREDICT WILL and there’s constant Success is only possible through authors. Equally we might see to buy. So, we support our BE POPULAR IN THE feedback on what books innovation. We constantly someone at a show and approach retailers with POS and great COMING YEAR? or trends are coming back look for innovative products them with an idea. We look for offers not available online. Embroidery, dressmaking, or surfacing which is fed to and packaging for our books. active authors who promote knitting and crochet all remain our editorial department. It’s The recent Paint Pad Poster themselves through social media z WHAT DO YOU FEEL HAS strong. Needle felting is back, also a way for us to increase Books series is an example. and demonstrations. Once a book BEEN THE COMPANY'S as are weaving, macramé and awareness for our brand in A3 landscape, they contain is accepted, we plan rigorously. GREATEST SUCCESS? punch needle embroidery. People general and acts as a great frame-ready posters, step- Relationships with authors are It’s the quality of our books, are moving on from colouring customer service tool - when by-step instructions to paint partnerships - they understand and our passion for what we into painting. Our introductory there’s a problem we’re those images and watercolour their art or craft, we understand do. Nielsen Book Data shows watercolour series – Paint Pad fast to react. We have over paper with outlines provided. the business of publishing. that nearly one in three of Poster Books, Ready to Paint 22k followers on Facebook every craft book sold is from in 30 Minutes, Paint Pad Artist combined, 8k on Twitter, z HAVE THERE BEEN ANY z WHAT CAN WE EXPECT Search Press. I believe that’s and Take 3 Colours – are huge. and that’s growing daily. RECENT DEVELOPMENTS FROM YOUR COMPANY IN because we truly value authors, THAT HAVE CHANGED THE NEXT 12 MONTHS? customers, staff and suppliers. z HOW IMPORTANT IS z HOW CAN A NEW SEARCH PRESS’ PROFILE? It’s our 50th Birthday and we’ve SUSTAINABILITY TO CUSTOMER OPEN The biggest development got plans! There’s a party for z TO WHAT DO YOUR BUSINESS? AN ACCOUNT? is Debbie Shore’s Half Yard our amazing authors. We’ll YOU ATTRIBUTE We’re very aware of the need Easy! Visit www.searchpress. Sewing Club. This is an be republishing some classic YOUR SUCCESS? to reduce our carbon footprint. com/trade and there’s an online subscription platform titles, we’ve charity events I joined a successful company Take a recent book like Mabel account application form. offering exclusive content, planned and tons of media three years ago that has a Bunny & Co, from Dragons’ Den It’ll take just ten minutes.

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Is it game over for unicorns, cacti and llamas? Adam Newhouse, Director of Hunkydory Crafts, takes a look at the trends he expects to be big in 2020

z COLOUR OF THE YEAR expect to see a lot of upcycling, Colour of the year choices aim using scraps in inventive to represent the general zeitgeist and beautiful ways and new and mood of society, and in materials emerging. For example, today’s politically charged and Kraft-Tex Kraft Paper Fabric, a turbulent society, we think Dulux recycled paper that looks and may be bang on with their latest feels like leather, but cuts, sews predication. Choosing a cool and washes just like fabric. green tone ‘Tranquil Dawn’ as its Another material that offers a Colour of the Year for 2020, this slice of nature is living moss, a soft green colour is calming, easy preserved moss that is appearing on the eyes and natural, offering more and more throughout some much needed calm at workplaces and homes as the turn of the next decade. we look to counter-balance Dulux's UK creative director, our reliance on technology. Marianne Shillingford, compares Customers will want to know the colour to "the space the full journey of the product, between the land and sky. A from design and development new decade heralds a new dawn through to production, and the hazy pale green tones manufacture and delivery. They of Tranquil Dawn are calming will expect brands to be open “Recyclable packaging will become common and comforting just when we and honest about the carbon need it most in our lives." footprint of their products and practice not just a nice to have, and products that make a true effort to reduce their are Vegan friendly (without animal testing or animal z ENVIRONMENTALLY carbon emissions. Recyclable CONSCIOUS packaging will become common derivatives) will become far more mainstream” The trend for being both practice not just a nice to have, socially and environmentally and products that are Vegan experience-based purchases has look for novel and healthy ways unpredictable times, there’s aware gained traction in 2019, friendly (without animal testing continued to grow during this of bringing teams together. always room for fun and frolics. with consumers being more or animal derivatives) will unpredictable and stressful time? Take unicorns, the sugary pink concerned about the impact become far more mainstream. This focus on experiences z ESCAPISM mythical creature that was their shopping has on the planet. and togetherness is ideal 100 years on, will we see a everywhere in 2019, offering a We saw new products emerge z EXPERIENCES for holding craft workshops, resurgence of the roaring ‘20s dose of rainbows and sparkles and quickly gain popularity, 2019 has been a year of educating and bringing the trend of Art Deco? The original that appealed to our inner six things like bio-degradable glitter, uncertainty for the British community together through a Art Deco movement represented year old. This escapism through recyclable wrapping paper consumer, with Brexit dominating shared and enjoyable experience. luxury, glamour, faith in cuteness overload is set to and the removal of plastic headlines. 85,000 jobs were lost We have seen the emergence technological and social progress continue, but surely unicorns toys in Christmas crackers. in retail in 2019 with problems for of crafting workshops as and abundance. This flamboyant have had their day. With our This trend will continue to household names like Thomas alternative ideas for hen-dos and blatant expression of wealth newly-charged concern for the grow in 2020 with customers Cook, Debenhams, Bonmarche and baby showers, and we think seems counter-intuitive to the planet, perhaps it’s time for sea searching for more unique to name just a few. Is it any this trend will continue into the current mood, but as we have creatures like turtles, seahorses ways to craft without guilt, we wonder that the trend for positive, workplace, as business owners seen recently, during the most and starfish to take the limelight.

www.craftbusiness.com 30 INTERVIEW 3D Cardology Creations – Popping Up All Over The World!

Dipa Shah, Cardology founder AND designer, talks with Angela Sara West about their showstopping creations z Founded in 2014, family-run firm, Cardology, offers fresh and creative cards and prints from their innovative design studio in Surrey. The talented team of three - Dipa Shah (Founder & Designer), Kripa Shah (Director & Senior Designer) and Kripa’s husband, David Falkner (Trade Director) – combine their engineering and design backgrounds with an eye for fine detail to produce amazing 3D pop-up greetings cards and art prints with the wow factor. When Eamonn Holmes handed his wife, Ruth Langsford. one of Cardology’s Valentine's cards live on ITV’s ‘This Morning’ on Valentine’s Day, the creative cardmakers’ hearts skipped a beat. “We were waiting very nervously for the Valentine’s segment,” Dipa explains. “It felt very unreal to see Eamonn give our pop-up card to Ruth, and seeing the surprise on her face was such a great feeling!” “With pop-up cards, a lot of it is trial occasion, you’ll find something Those few seconds of for everyone, even cricket and cat small-screen fame saw the and error. The more you practice and get fans! From 3D pop-up wardrobes super-cool card company enjoy for fashion lovers and drinks for a huge spike in sales on its wrong, the more you will learn from it and gin fans, to pianos for musical website. “That kind of exposure get right” maestros and London landmarks for a small family business is for history enthusiasts. Whatever incredible, and something we Described as ‘Magical’ by using the concept, but innovating Cardology’s website boasts the occasion or interest, felt so proud of. To have our The Sunday Times, and ‘As it and creating designs that a helpful blog bursting with Cardology has you covered. “We product chosen and highlighted much a gift as a card’ by The were relevant for the UK market, tips, tricks and tutorials. Feeling focus on British interests and amongst other big brands on Daily Mail, Cardology’s elegant, we thought we would be on festive? Check out their step-by- hobbies, and aren’t scared to national TV is encouraging, classy and unique pop-up to something quite special.” step tutorial on how to make a create ranges for niche groups.” and an affirmation that our cards have also been called Dipa’s sister, Kripa, applies her Christmas present pop-up card How else do they keep work is being recognised.” ‘small pieces of art in a card’. background in mechanical with their free printable template, things fresh? “I’ve been seeing Offering worldwide shipping, engineering to their creations. or to try your hand at a more a lot of positive affirmation on their cards are now literally z THE POP-UP PROCESS “Kripa has a very logical and advanced pop-up snowman card. cards as well as clever and witty popping up all around the Cardology’s painstakingly- practical way of thinking and “With pop-up cards, a lot of it puns influenced by celebrity or globe. These out-of-the-ordinary handcrafted cards are a true picked up Sliceform very easily. is trial and error. The more you pop culture. Some huge trends keepsake cards are so striking, labour of love. Using complicated Figuring out where the slot joints practice and get wrong, the more which we created cards for they’re sure to spark a reaction, paper-engineering techniques go also requires an element of you will learn from it and get right. were unicorns, flamingos and delighting even the most (Kirigami and Sliceform) to maths to ensure they are placed We use a laser cutter to cut the pineapples. We also freshen discerning card lover. “In this new create 3D models, the particularly accurately. She is very creative pieces out accurately, but have up our ranges by focusing on digital age of fleeting electronic intricate cards open up 180 and great at sketching, too.” adapted a few tutorials for those hobbies and interests for specific communications, finding a degrees to reveal a hidden She says Sliceform is using a craft knife or scissors. It’s groups. For example, we cater personal and memorable surprise inside, much to the essentially creating 3D models quite fiddly, but practice makes well for men, and teenagers card that captures someone’s delight of their lucky recipient. by interlocking pieces of card perfect, and they will understand is another area of growth. attention and cuts through the Dipa discovered Sliceform, together. “When designing our the concept of Sliceform.” “With the 80th Anniversary ‘noise’ is something very special a type of paper engineering, cards, we have to position where of the Battle of Britain, our to be part of,” says Dipa. during her travels in Asia. “By the individual pieces will intersect, z ON-TREND CARDS Spitfire card is another new slowly building up the 3D model.” & PRINTS design we’re enormously proud The process, from idea to final The team take inspiration from of, as is our Vintage Train card design, can sometimes the latest and emerging trends design and the makeover we’ve take up to six weeks. “After the in British culture to create unique given all of our age-specific initial sketch is completed, we cards which are guaranteed to cards, following customer move the design on screen leave a lasting impression. To feedback. We’re also focusing using a variety of product design complement their exquisite, on producing more cards for software. It takes us many trend-led 3D cards, they also teenagers, an updated wedding iterations to ensure that the pop- offer beautiful pop-up art prints, and baby range, and will be up cards do actually fold down including Alice in Wonderland increasing our ‘Dogs’ category.” and fit into the card perfectly.” and London themes, and free Appropriate for a multitude From their designs, they basic customisation, along with of occasions, Cardology’s create a sheet with all individual assorted luxury card bundles. bestsellers are their flower pieces or ‘slices’ that make up With Christmas fast ranges. “Flowers remain popular, the card. These pieces are then approaching, and more royal but cat cards, pheasants, and laser cut, before each card is baby arrivals and weddings on particularly our new Spitfire Kripa Shah (left), David Falkner and Dipa Shah (right) carefully assembled by hand. the cards in 2020, whatever the design, are all pushing these

www.craftbusiness.com INTERVIEW 31

hard right now,” reveals Dipa. love to work with have expressed ‘pop-up’ shop to call ‘home’ in “In the midst of all of this, an interest, but our heart is, and the heart of London. “We have there’s Christmas just around will always be, with our small a regular stall at the prestigious the corner. For us, Christmas independent retailers. We love Covent Garden Apple Market. this year is all about family to serve and help them succeed The stand has been a fantastic and the magic of sharing that in this rough retail landscape.” learning experience for us, experience with young children. taking us right back to our start David and Kripa have a daughter z ECO-FRIENDLY point and reinforcing so much who is approaching two, PRACTICES about why customers buy our and you can see the childlike Cardology is increasingly aware cards – you really can’t beat wonder coming through in the of its environmental footprint. face-to-face interaction with real new designs Cardology are BEADALON mini_ADS 19/09/2019 10:58 Page 1 “We’ve already shaken up our humans to help you come up with offering, of which our favourite trade range in the last few months fresh product ideas. We’re really is the Gingerbread House.” to slash plastic usage by over excited about how the market Dipa’s personal preferences? 80 per cent, and have plans to will evolve into something even “Our Pheasant pop-up card, as implement the same across our more romantic in the run-up to it marks the first time we used direct to consumer range,” says Christmas, as the nip starts to an element of printing on the Dipa. “With our officially-licenced enter the air, and our Christmas pop-up, and our Cross Country cards, we have taken this one step products begin to enter our pop-up card was an actual further by removing single-use stand. Please come and see us!” jump at the Olympics and at plastic altogether and an extra With trade fairs a-go-go Burghley Horse Trials – the to them, and then acting on of our focus has been getting envelope, with our revolutionary on their agenda, you can also Olympic Legacy jump.” As for it and adapting quickly.” these super-exciting properties reversible packaging which catch Cardology showcasing the most challenging, it’s the ready for launch. As you can turns into a magical envelope. their stunning creations at tricky-to-build dinosaur range. z FAMOUS FANS & BIG imagine, this is a huge step for A true gift experience! We’d Scotland’s Trade Fair in Glasgow, “The pieces are very small BRAND COLLABORATIONS us as a business, and we’re love to hear from customers, if the Spring Fair and Autumn and awkward to assemble.” Cardology’s cards are becoming delighted with the fit we have they have other ideas on what Fair at the NEC, and The Farm a bit of a cult status, and even with the partners we’ve chosen more we could be doing.” Shop & Deli Show 2020. z COUNTRY ROOTS have celebrity and royal fans. to work with,” says Dipa. Providing a more permanent The most rewarding aspect With a strong rural pedigree, Dipa describes being particularly Despite only recently bringing base for their customers to of all their hard work? “Seeing the the team started out selling star-struck when selling to an their products to trade, that side browse their stationery offerings reactions on customers’ faces on market stalls, shopping American singer who may have of the business is already strong. and copious card collections, when they open them, plus, now events and at country fairs. “We ‘kissed a girl’, and of course, has “A few large retailers we would Cardology now boasts a new we can say ‘As Seen On TV’!” developed a ‘country’ range of definitely kissed her famous cards for the customers we fiancé. “Katy Perry and Orlando were meeting at those events,” Bloom bought cards from us at explains Dipa. “We then began an exclusive fair they attended in attending equestrian events Henley in August!” Dipa divulges. and decided that the visitors Earlier this year, they learned there would be after something that some of their sensational slightly different, so we created cards had also made their way a range that catered specifically to members of the Royal Family. to them. We were entering the “That was amazing to hear!” worlds of different groups of The company frequently people, and made an effort to takes on bespoke commissions. understand what their passions Among the most exciting so were before creating cards that far? “Creating VIP invites for were relevant and that they Sotheby’s so they could invite wouldn’t find anywhere else.” their very special clients to an exclusive event. The design took z CUSTOMER months, but we were very proud FEEDBACK IS KEY of the outcome. There have been Customer feedback, trends collaborations with charities, and upcoming events heavily too, including a campaign with influence many of their makes. Lover Community Trust. “This “An adage we often hear from was broadcast on ‘Countryfile’ very talented crafters is ‘you on BBC One. The campaign was never get paid for the hours that a huge success and wonderful go in’. We’ve been very lucky in to be a part of. We continue to offering designs that do pay their donate ten per cent of our profits way, and are also treasured by to charity and, this year, we’ve the people who receive them; focused on the Woodland Trust. essentially lifting them out of the We’re also hoping to repeat last pure ‘greetings card’ category year’s very successful Valentine’s and transforming them into Day partnership with the Lover retained keepsakes.” Recognising Community Trust, and are in that their customers don’t the middle of planning next always want personal messages year’s range. We’d love to do displayed on items that decorate more charity collaborations!” their homes, they’re now including Cardology’s also currently a ‘secret space’ for a discreet creating some officially-licensed message card on an increasing pop-up cards for a few well- proportion of their range. “You’ll known brands, and there’s also always know who sent you the a very exciting collaboration card, but you can then be more with a large high street retailer selective about who you choose in the works. “We recently to share that message with.” signed a licencing deal with “Kripa, David and I usually Warner Brothers, enabling us brainstorm ideas when we are to create amazing premium driving to events!” Dipa reveals. cards for much-loved properties “We just bounce ideas off one such as Harry Potter, DC another constantly.” All about (Batman, Superman, Wonder communication with their Woman), Friends, Big Bang customers, they create small Theory, and many more.” batches of new designs and The first collection will be launch them at retail events a Harry Potter range of six fan to get first-hand feedback. “I favourite cards, which will be think this has been key to our out for pre-order in November, success - understanding what for delivery in December - in our customers want, listening time for Christmas! “So, much

www.craftbusiness.com 32 KNITTING AND CROCHET

Environmental award for The Knitting Network Loch Ness Knit Fest z The Knitting Network beyond that, from how we has become the UK’s first manage and monitor business a success online retailer to achieve waste, to how we package Green Mark certification, our own brand products. recognising its commitment to “This approach is important environmental sustainability. to us and we know it’s important A popular and fast-growing to our customers too. While online knitting and crochet many of the changes we have store, The Knitting Network made to improve our business has taken a market leading have been more costly, our position to drive sustainable packaging for example is four to retail to the next level. This five times more expensive than includes only using plastic-free, plastic alternatives, we know that recyclable packaging for all it is the right thing to do and are customer orders, as well as proud to be leading the way.” reducing waste and moving to The Knitting Network an energy efficient property. also strives to partner with Amy Last, Director at The organisations that make a Knitting Network, said: “We’re difference. In June this year, it incredibly proud to become began a ten-month commercial the first ever online retailer to partnership to help raise achieve a Green Mark. When we awareness for the Bumblebee took the business over in 2018 Conservation Trust; a national making it more environmentally conservation charity working friendly was a big focus for to increase the number and us. Switching to plastic-free, distribution of bumblebees due recyclable packaging was a to their large-scale declines. major step, but it goes way The initiative included posting thousands of packets of native wildflower seeds perfect for pollinators in UK VIRIDIAN 1-8 2 col_VIRIDIAN 19/09/2019 10:45 Page 1 customer orders to help enrich the habitat for bumblebees.

KNITTING FEVER 1.16 2 col_CRAFT BIZ 06/11/2019 17:17 Page 1

z Around 2,000 visitors from a market place with over 55 as this means we are truly 23 countries attended this vendors who were selling woolly creating a sustainable event. year’s Loch Ness Knit Fest, wares. Vendors came from all “This year we had a which is now in its fourth year. over, including India, Ireland, fantastic programme, full of Attendees had the Denmark and Germany. different musicians, presenters opportunity to take part in a Cairan Macleod, organiser and evening entertainment. variety of fibre craft workshops said: “Feedback throughout the Evening entertainment at Knit including spinning, felting, knitting weekend was fantastic, with a Fest tends to always have and crochet-based classes, led number of guests specifically a Highland Twist, this year by a number of industry experts. noting it was their best visit we had a Highland Feast, Additionally there were a to date. This is great to hear Knit – A – Long with local number of presentations, and from an organiser’s perspective musicians as entertainment, as well as a concert – led by world-renowned fiddle player, Bruce MacGregor - formally of the Blazin Fiddles. “Exhibitors from Shilasdair Yarns and Sealy Macwheely UK Distrubutor for: Sock Yarn Specialists commented on the involvement • Opal • Eucalan of Highland culture at the event, and how friendly everyone was, and noted the community presence at the festival. “We are most excited to be announcing some exciting new changes for the festival, alongside 2020’s date – which will see us celebrating our fifth anniversary.” Those wishing to be the first to hear about next year, can visit their website and join the list at www.lochnessknitfest.com

Knitting Needles & Accessories TRADE ENQUIRIES: E: [email protected] T: 0117 300 5244 www.viridianyarn.com

www.craftbusiness.com KNITTING AND CROCHET 33

Stylecraft launch the Get on board with Blogstar Make Alongs Knitting Fever z Stylecraft has introduced the Blogstars Make Alongs, a new regular feature for knitters and crocheters running throughout the year. One of Stylecraft’s super-talented Blogstars will launch a special new project at regular intervals throughout the year. Each design will feature a new or existing Stylecraft yarn showcased in an exclusive pattern for crafters to purchase direct from each Blogstar. Stylecraft has also set up a special Facebook Make Along group where crafters can work on a project together, and share tips and advice The first design was called Aisling by Emma May which is a gorgeous hat crocheted using just one ball of new yarn Cosy Delight. This pattern is in US terms but the MAL group will help you with UK terms z Knitting Fever, America’s brands across all price- if you haven’t used US terms before. premier yarn distributor, is points and from all around Next up was the amazing knitted looking to strengthen its the world, the successful blanket called Good Striations by Helen representation in the United candidate will have a unique Kurtz, followed by Helen Shrimpton’s Kingdom and Republic and exclusive offering for his/ Cornish Comfort crochet blanket. Ireland. her retailers. And of course Annabelle Hill, Sales and Marketing Director Gareth Probert, Sales we will remunerate you with at Stylecraft, said: “We are so lucky to work Manager - UK & Ireland, said: a competitive and generous with our amazing Blogstars. The new Make “Following strong growth in rate of commission.” Alongs give crafters a unique opportunity to these markets over the past Opportunities are try out new designs in our yarns and share 18 months, we are looking available in various regions their progress with a group of fellow crafters.” to make our sales team even around the UK and Ireland. Each project will be supported by yarn stronger by recruiting qualified For further information, packs available from Stylecraft retailers. independent representatives. please send your CV and “Offering an exceptional covering letter to portfolio of 13 quality yarn [email protected] Jimmy Beans Wool buys Madelinetosh z Jimmy Beans, a market is such an important part of continue to hand-dye luxury leading retailer of yarn and Jimmy Beans’ DNA and with yarns in a variety of fibres and accessories for knitters and the addition of Madelinetosh, it weights, available in over 100 makers, have reached a deal feels like a match made in yarn colourways, ranging from their to acquire Madelinetosh, heaven. We’ve been carrying signature speckles and tonals to the largest hand-dyed yarn Madelinetosh for years and to see variegated and stunning brights. producer in the USA. what Amy and John have created Jimmy Beans will continue to Currently, Madelinetosh is remarkable. Their eye for colour sell Madelinetosh yarn along yarn is sold in countless and ability to take dyeing from with their extensive line-up of independently-owned yarn and their kitchen to becoming the yarns through their website, retail craft stores around the world. largest hand-dyer in the country is store and at consumer trade This is their largest just incredible. We hope that we shows throughout the country. acquisition, and with can continue their legacy, while Jimmy Beans will be selling Madelinetosh, Jimmy Beans adding our customer service and the latest Madelinetosh yarns, will be adding a major yarn marketing touch to the brand!” patterns and kits at STITCHES brand to their roster of notable For now, Madelinetosh SoCal, November 14-17, 2019 and companies, having recently headquarters and team will VK Live NY, January 17-19, 2020. purchased two popular bag and remain in Fort Worth, TX , with Madelinetosh will continue to KNITPROaccessories 1.4 5 col_CRAFT companies, BIZ 05/11/2019 Namaste 10:57additional Page 1 operational and be sold at select yarn and retail in 2018 and della Q in 2019. sales support coming from craft stores all over the world and Laura Zander, Co-Founder Jimmy Beans headquarters at www.JimmyBeansWool.com of Jimmy Beans, said: “Yarn in Reno, NV. Madelinetosh will and www.Madelinetosh.com Laura Zander, Co-Founder of Jimmy Beans, pictured with Madelinetosh

www.craftbusiness.com 34 BUSINESS ADVICE Ways to 5stand out at a Christmas market Richard Cutmore, Director at the gazebo printing specialists TFH Gazebos, shares his top tips to catch the eye this festive season

z Attending Christmas markets sell their products, it'll pay is a great way to get into the to know how to stand out festive spirit, but for those among the competition. Here, with craft businesses, it can I will be sharing my top tips also be a great opportunity to to show you what you should get your company's name out be focussing on to put your there and boost your sales. business one step ahead. Christmas markets are among some of the most z FINETUNE YOUR CYGNET 1.8 2 COL_CRAFT BIZ 06/11/2019 17:13popular Page events 1 of the year, with PRODUCT RANGE the number in the UK rising When you own a craft business, from 30 in 2007 to over 100 in your livelihood depends on 2017. Not only has the demand being creative. And, while your increased, but the £250 million current product range may visitor spend is thought to have be impressive, when you're create kids' stockings and a warming hot chocolate they For example, if you offer festive doubled over the same period attending a Christmas market offer personalisation on the can enjoy as they go around characters as doorstops, you (Local Government Association). where there will be plenty of day to make sure they are the rest of the market, when could suggest getting the kids to This means that it's not just competition, it's important beautiful keepsakes that can be they spend a certain amount. line these up around the fireplace customers who benefit from that you are offering unique cherished for years to come. Bear in mind that many of on Christmas Eve to help Santa attending these markets: there products that'll get you noticed. the people buying from you when he comes down the chimney. are plenty of opportunities for This doesn't necessarily z DESIGN YOUR will be searching for Christmas businesses to make a profit, too. mean designing all new products, MARKET STALL gifts, so offering a free wrapping z CREATE GREAT And, this is especially the case but you might be able to adapt Christmas markets are usually service could also be a good MARKETING MATERIALS for craft businesses who make your current lines to stand out filled with stalls offering festive idea. Just make sure you have It's not guaranteed that everybody keepsakes and personalised a bit more. Perhaps you could food and gifts, which means plenty of festive wrapping paper, who's interested in your products products that are perfect add new festive colourways it's particularly important that bows, boxes, and bags to hand! will buy on the day, so it's a good for the gift-giving season. or adjust some of your current your stand makes an impact idea to lend some thought to But, with so many other designs to make lovely Christmas and is distinguishable from the z DELIVER GREAT marketing materials that they craft companies trying to gifts. For example, you could others. To create an eye-catching CUSTOMER SERVICE can take away with them. To be display, I recommend adding When you're trying to stand effective, these will need to elements of personalisation, as out, it's not just about the include your business website this can ensure that your stall products you have, but also the and email address, social links, accurately represents your brand. service you offer. The festive and a contact number if you This could include having period tends to boost people's have one. Not only will these your business logo and slogan moods, so make sure you greet remind potential customers emblazoned on your stall, as well everybody with Christmas cheer. about you, but they'll also point as incorporating your company's As well as being friendly and them directly to where they colours onto the stall. If you're approachable, you should also can purchase your products really looking to get into the ensure you're knowledgeable or get in contact with you. festive spirit, why not invest in a about your product range. For So how do you know pop-up Christmas grotto? These example, are the materials you which marketing materials are will stand out for all the right use cruelty-free or sustainable? best? This will depend on your reasons and can make sure your If they are, don't be afraid to business. For example, if you stall attracts plenty of attention. thoroughly advertise this. make bespoke crafts, handing Add some finishing touches You might also want to give out a menu of services you to your stall with festive your customers ideas of how offer can show customers what garlands, tinsel, fake snow, and they can use your products. you're able to create for them. mini Christmas trees to add to the effect. You could even hang some of your smaller crafts up as a creative way of displaying your products.

z OFFER INCENTIVES FOR PURCHASING Everybody loves a freebie, and what better time than the season of giving to show your customers how much you appreciate their support? You could offer them something as small as a decorative tealight or

www.craftbusiness.com ARTS AND CRAFT 35

Take a look at what’s on offer to fill your shelves and entice loyal customers to take Bookshelf up a new craft or improve their skills CraftBusiness EDITOR’S PICK

50 Fat Quarter Toys Crewel Twists Sew Bags Easy Toy Sewing Patterns From Fresh ideas for Jacobean The Practical Guide to Making Purses, Your Fabric Stash embroidery Totes, Clutches & More Edited by Ame Verso by Hazel Blomkamp by Hilarie Wakefield Dayton

ISBN: 9781446307427 ISBN: 9781782217770 ISBN: 9781617457913 Edition: Paperback Edition: Paperback Edition: BC Paperback Pages: 144 Pages:144 Pages: 112 Publisher: David & Charles Publisher: Search Press Publisher: C&T Publishing DRAW GREAT CHARACTERS RRP: £16.99 RRP: £14.99 RRP: £19.99 75 art exercises for comics and animation by Beverly Johnson z Beverly Johnson’s book is packed with scores of fun exercises that will really motivate young beginner artists who are just getting interested in drawing for animation, comic book art, or just for pleasure. In a series of beginner-friendly exercises, she explores how to conceptualize wonderful, convincing characters and shows how to translate ideas into great professional-looking drawings. The book is organized into key chapters associated with what makes engaging, three-dimensional characters. Read the advice and then work your way through Spellbound Festive Stunning Stitches for The Crafter’s Guide to the exercises and you will get to the end Beading Four Crazy Quilts Papercutting with a portfolio bursting with wonderful More Decorative 480 Embroidered Seam Designs The complete guide to cutting creations. Ornaments & 36 Stitch-Template Designs paper for artworks, greetings cards, This book demonstrates how to create by Julie Ashford for Perfect Placement keepsakes and more diverse characters with strong by Kathy Seaman Shaw by Emily Hogarth personalities, unique mannerisms and ISBN: 9780956503091 interests; how to understand their Edition: BC Paperback ISBN: 9781617457739 ISBN: 9781844488957 motivations, find their passions and make Pages: 112 Edition: BC Paperback; Pages: 128 Edition: BC Paperback; Pages: 144 them come alive. Publisher: Spellbound Bead Co. Publisher: C&T Publishing Publisher: Search Press Split into 75, easy-to-follow and fun RRP: £16.95 RRP: £24.99 RRP: £12.99 exercises, Bev leads the young reader through the techniques and skills needed to create their very own characters. Beverly Johnson is an illustrator based MODERN CROCHET BIBLE in Burbank, California. She draws for a Over 100 contemporary crochet techniques and stitches living, including children’s books, storyboarding, and character design. She by Sarah Shrimpton has worked for Lucasfilm, Houghton- z The Modern Crochet Bible is the definitive guide to all the crochet Mifflin Publishing, CollegeHumor, Adobe techniques and stitches necessary to create stunning contemporary and Character Design Quarterly, among crochet projects. others. This is the book her 111K Learn how to stitch stunning contemporary crochet projects using Instagram followers have been waiting for. traditional techniques with a twist such as filet crochet or brand new Find her online at bevsi.weebly.com and techniques such as corner to corner crochet. All the key crochet techniques behance.net/bevsi, as well as on Instagram and stitches including Tunisian, tapestry, corner to corner, overlay, as @beverlylove. mosaic, filet, colour pooling and crochet embroidery are featured, as well • ISBN: 9781782218074 as instructions on how to use the exciting, new yarns that are available. • Edition: BC Paperback • Pages: 144 As well as step by step instructions and photography there are patterns • Publisher: Search Press for over ten cutting edge modern crochet makes for you and your home. Choose from a cowl, blanket, wrap, bag, rug and many more. RRP: £12.99 ISBN: 9781446307502 • Edition: Paperback • Pages: 160 Publisher: David & Charles • RRP: £17.99

www.craftbusiness.com 36 BUSINESS ADVICE

to take complex and time- Managing multiple consuming training courses. classes and bookings can be time consuming zNOW YOU’VE STARTED… and stressful. Booking Once your business has management platforms, been launched, you need to like fibodo, help in this ensure that the excitement respect, as the technology and personal satisfaction you handles bookings and gain from your craft remains automates your booking How to create a – which can be a challenge if admin so clients enjoy a you’re spending an increasing seamless booking journey, amount of time completing and you save time. tedious tasks, like admin. z Identify peak times: crafty side-hustle Should you start, for Evenings or weekends are example, your own jewellery likely to be popular booking making workshops, you will times – working with need to dedicate time to honing multiple clients during these Anthony Franklin, Founder & CEO at booking management techniques and sourcing periods helps maximise your materials. Liaising with clients, income. For example, you platform fibodo, passes on his top tips to budding entrepreneurs organising your bookings, can run group classes during handling payments, etc, are all your busiest time (when crucial to running a business more people are available) z Across the UK, a growing but take your time away from and offer one-on-one tuition number of workers are jewellery making, which can during quieter periods. leading double lives. From naturally hinder enthusiasm and z Keeping on top of cash flow: students to experienced office cause temptation to call it quits. It’s likely that you’ll need staff, individuals are looking Helpful and simple-to-use to purchase supplies for to make more money, flexibly, tech exists to remove many your workshops. However, by transforming their crafty of these challenges from these expenses could passions into a ‘side-hustle’. your side-hustle, allowing you leave you out of pocket Earning some extra cash to keep your passion at the should any of your clients alongside a main form of centre of your business. cancel at the last-minute. employment or income isn’t a Using tools that can reduce As a simple way to prevent new phenomenon but there are hours spent on admin effectively this from happening, it is some noticeable trends in the maximise productivity – and worth taking pre-payment type of ‘hustle’ people pursue. enable business owners from clients at the time The revolution of the to focus on their craft. In they make their booking. side-hustle has been heavily turn, this can encourage z Sharing your availability: influenced by viral trends and more people to take their Social media is a great tool celebrity crazes. For those business venture forwards. to use when it comes to who enjoy being creative in z STARTING YOUR the second largest barrier to sharing your availability. As their spare time, the rise in CRAFTY SIDE-HUSTLE – achieving growth aspirations. z RUNNING YOUR well as showcasing your popularity of sites such as ASSESSING YOUR SKILLS A sobering fact when you SIDE-HUSTLE creations, you can use Etsy and TV shows such as When you’re starting out, take into account that 60 A number of key tech-related social platforms to share Kirstie’s Celebrity Craft Masters you’ll have many things to per cent of new businesses challenges can arise when last minute availability for may be the inspiration to take focus on – especially if you’re go-under within three years. starting a side-hustle, however, classes, helping to fill empty their hobby to the next level. also juggling your existing This illustrates how even those with limited technical spaces in your diary and For those wanting to job – without worrying important it is to rapidly or business skills can upscale move one step closer to a cash in on their passion whether you have the implement business skills, their business ventures by using steady stream of income. for crafts, the next step necessary business skills. especially when selling time- simple tools that allow them to: could be in teaching others The most detrimental based services. Luckily, z Streamline bookings: If z RISING TO THE how to make their own impact to launching your there are an abundance you teach people to sew, CHALLENGE jewellery or accomplish own side-hustle is a lack of business management for example, it’s possible The decision to start a side the perfect cross stitch. of appropriate business platforms available that can that you will offer several hustle from your passion of However, many skills, with a report from assist you with the set up different classes which craft is more than a way of enthusiastic creative people the Federation of Small and running of your business, are tailored to varying skill making money, it’s a way to do looking to start their own side- Business citing that it is meaning you won’t have capabilities and techniques. what you love while sharing hustle may question: will a lack your skills. Bridging the gap in of technology and business knowledge that you, as a would- skills hold them back from be entrepreneur faces when growing a sustainable venture? “Should you start, for example, your own creating a side hustle can be Fortunately, there are ways daunting. Fortunately, innovative to overcome this and turn jewellery making workshops, you will need technology is on your side, a side-hustle into success. reducing the stress and strain Below are our top tips for to dedicate time to honing techniques and – so you can focus on your budding entrepreneurs: sourcing materials” craft and doing what you love.

www.craftbusiness.com BUSINESS 37 Grow your craft business with these 5 insider tips Jayme Wium, a digital marketer for SME Loans, specialising in the areas of technology and finances, offers her advice on how to boost your business z Growing a business is something eye-catching to look not something that can be at. It’s an expression of creativity. done overnight or without Nowadays, consumers are meticulous planning. For some, drawn to dazzling images and the idea of expansion seems videos. You simply cannot afford like a headache, but for craft to have blurry or unimpressive business owners in the know, product images on your website who have already figured out or in your catalogue. It’s the the trick to business expansion, product photos that will make the benefits are undeniable. or break your business in the It appears that most craft end. Many people skim over business owners have a hard the description and proceed to time figuring out how they spend a lot more time scrolling are going to get ahead in a through the product pictures. competitive marketplace. Just You don’t necessarily need last year, The Telegraph published an expensive camera or a an article stating that the UK craft professional photographer to industry contributes £420 million take high resolution pictures to the country’s economy. The that look good. You can take craft industry is a lucrative one great pictures with most that is well worth expanding in. modern smartphones. z SO WHAT DO I DO? The elements of a At SME Loans, while helping great photograph: entrepreneurs source the ideal z Don’t use a flash if you loans for small businesses, can help it – try to take meeting and talking to some photographs in natural light. of the UK’s leading craft z White space – keep business owners, we’ve picked “In order to be competitive, you need the background of your up on insider tips, from craft photo minimalist. Plain business owners themselves, to know who your customers are” white background has on how to expand a business the biggest impact. in the arts and crafts industry that provide free guidance on content that provides valuable that support the craft industry but z High definition shots which in the UK. Our top 5 are: making and publishing YouTube and relevant content to browsers. aren’t in direct competition with are crisp and clear. videos or you can hire a digital you. While posting content that TARGET YOUR marketing team to assist you. NETWORK ON links to your product catalogues ACTIVATE ONLINE 1MARKET/NICHE Videos aren’t the only form of 3SOCIAL MEDIA and website is a must, you 5SALES – IT’S ALL In order to be competitive, content that you should create. Social media platforms are the should focus on interacting with ABOUT CONVENIENCE you need to know who your Google is crazy about content ideal place to punt your craft your audience and post content Many craft store owners rely customers are. If your target these days. The more of it you business, but you can’t bombard that is shareable. Comment on walk-in trade for the bulk customers are middle-aged stay have, the better it is for your people with advertising. The on the posts of influencers of their business. The craft at home mums, you will need to marketing efforts. Blogging is a first step is to ensure that you and connections to get added industry is changing at a rapid adjust your marketing to appeal sure-fire way to get your message have a presence on the most exposure and work on creating pace and just like most other to such a person. For instance, across. You should focus on prominent social networks such friendships with your audience. industries in the UK, online you won’t use the same forms of releasing an interesting blog post as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, The more your business brand sales are essential if you want advertising for a teenage target at the very least, once a week. and Twitter. Invite existing is in the public eye, the better to keep up. If you don’t have an audience as you would for stay Blogging should not be about customers to connect with you it will be for your expansion. e-commerce website, you are at home mums. It is a good idea hard selling a product. Focus on on these platforms. When you losing on out orders – that’s to create a list of demographics providing information on topics have a growing audience, start HAVE AMAZING a guarantee. You can boost that can pinpoint who exactly that would interest your target connecting with influencers in 4PRODUCT PHOTOS sales exponentially by adding your customers are. You can do audience. Make it shareable and your industry. It is also a good Arts and crafts are all about e-commerce capabilities to your this yourself or hire a marketing be entertaining. Google ranks idea to connect with businesses drawing the eye and having website. If you don’t want to hire team to carry out some valuable a web designer or developer market research for you. to alter your website, you can opt for selling products via CREATE TRENDING dedicated e-commerce portals 2PRODUCT VIDEOS such as Etsy.com or Handmade AND CONTENT at Amazon, where you can Video marketing and YouTube is set everything up yourself an effective marketing tool for a by following the prompts. craft business to target trends. “How to” videos are a great way z LAST WORD to provide your customers with Expanding your craft business valuable content and to get them will take strategic planning. sharing it whilst targeting a niche. With small business loans If you create an entertaining readily available, you should and informative video featuring be able to cover the cost your products and the best of expansion and increase techniques for using them, you your profits exponentially. As stand the chance of the content the craft industry in the UK being shared. Creating the naturally grows each year, your perfect “how to” videos will take business should grow too if some time to get right. You will you plan your growth strategy find a variety of sources online with these tips in mind.

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time-outTaking a CRAFTERS COMPANION mini_CRAFT BIZ 06/11/2019 09:42 Page 1 Sara Davies MBE, founder at Crafter’s Companion, explores the importance of making time for yourself when running a business

z Owning and running a business do. However hard it may be, it’s water, eating proper meals and I do find it hard to relax, z UNWIND requires a huge amount of important to take a step back and getting enough sleep. especially as my mind is Identify what helps you unwind responsibility and whether away from the hectic schedule, Despite how it sounds, self- always full of ideas I want and make time to do it. This your business is experiencing away from everyday life and care doesn’t have to equate to an to action straight away! could be exercising which is a really busy period or you are do things that are just for us. expensive holiday or luxurious I’ve personally found that I known to have physical and struggling through a month spa break and it is relative to spend so much of my time mental benefits, it could be with lower sales than expected, z TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF every individual. We just need travelling that self-care reading a book, having a long there are lots of things that can Self-care is a phrase that gets to inject a bit of ‘me time’ into and taking a break actually bath instead of a quick shower cause us to feel overwhelmed. used a lot but regardless of our lives and give ourselves a comes in the form of just or it could be going to bed early, In these moments, it’s really whether you run a business break every once and a while. staying at home with my rather than working out how hard to do anything other than or not, most of us are guilty of two boys and my husband. little sleep you need to function to carry on working because we not doing the basic things we z RELAX We can be crafting, baking in the day. Whatever you find are, understandably, so focused need to look after ourselves, For me, setting up a business cakes or be cuddled up that makes you feel ultimately on being successful in what we such as drinking enough hasn’t been without its challenges watching a film but spending relaxed, try to sacrifice the half time with those who mean hour or hour you need to do it. the most to me in the world is when I’m most happy. z JUST SAY NO Also we need to learn to say no. z BE REALISTIC Our lives are so busy already There are a few other things I that it is almost like we over- have found to be really helpful. compensate any free time First of all, setting achievable by filling it with anything and targets and goals for the day everything. Yes, we need to make is one way to remind yourself time to see family and friends that while you might not have but admitting that you need one finished that huge project, you evening or weekend to yourself to did complete ten other tasks relax can really make a difference that still needed finishing. and you will thank yourself for it. “Whatever you find that makes you feel ultimately relaxed, try to sacrifice the half hour or hour you need to do it”

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BUSINESS ADVICE 39

DOING THE How to ace your first Self Assessment BUSINESS…

in submitting, if it deems the EDITOR Mark Hayhurst David Redfern, tax preparation specialist and problem to be yours and yours 01206 508618 alone, they are less likely to be [email protected] director of DSR Tax Claims Ltd, offers expert tips lenient and with a £100 penalty for being just a day late, it isn’t ADVERTISING DIRECTOR for tax return beginners worth it. By starting early, you Owen Cook not only have the chance to 01206 505939 [email protected] sort out any little hassles that may crop up on the way, you ADVERTISING MANAGER also have time to do it slowly, Danielle Harris lessening the chances that you 01206 505954 will make any silly mistakes. [email protected] In order to make the tax ACCOUNTS return process as smooth as Anne-Marie Hartley possible, those new to Self 01206 505902 Assessment are advised to get all their paperwork and business SUBSCRIPTIONS MARKETING Holly Rayner records organised beforehand 01206 505965 so that the information required [email protected] in the tax return is at hand. Not only will you need THE BAR RATE information relating to your UK £28.00 self-employment income, you Overseas €40.00 will also need records of any PUBLISHING DIRECTOR expenses you wish to claim tax Helen Tudor relief for as well as any bigger purchases which may form part DESIGN: MS Typesetting and Design of your capital allowances. You may also need other information Printed in England if you have any rental income, z With three months to go year was October 5. By registering for 2018/19 and settling any income from other employments PUBLISHED BY: Aceville Publications Ltd until the Self Assessment for Self Assessment, you will not tax owing for that tax year is or pensions, savings or share 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, deadline for 2018/19, it can be only receive your authorisation midnight on January 31, 2020. dividend income and so on. It is Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY a stressful time for those who code for online Self Assessment With less than 100 days good to start this early because are new to Self-Assessment. but you will also receive your UTR until the deadline, taxpayers it gives you a chance to get ©Aceville Publications Ltd While seasoned old-timers or unique taxpayer reference. who have not yet started their that information if you don’t will know their way around You will need both of these in Self Assessment tax return are have it readily available. If you DISCLAIMER:The views expressed in this HMRC’s tax return system, order to complete your tax return advised to do so without delay. are using estimated figures, publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is made to ensure for those who are new to online. HMRC sends this kind Even those who are used to make sure you state they are the veracity and integrity of the companies, self-employment I’ll explain of information by post, never by filing tax returns would find it estimated and always try to persons, products and services mentioned in this publication, and details given are the fundamentals of the Self email or over the phone, which far less stressful to get their use actuals where possible. believed to be accurate at the time of Assessment tax return system means that it is important to Self Assessment tax return Taxpayers have until January going to press. However no responsibility 31, 2020, to submit their tax or liability whatsoever can be accepted and how to make the process leave yourself enough time completed and submitted for any consequence or repercussion of run as smoothly as possible. to receive this information. It as soon as possible and it is return and pay any tax they owe. responding to any information or advice With nearly 400,000 people is also wise to keep it safe. doubly wise to do so if you are It isn’t just those who are self- given or inferred. joining the ranks of self- If you made any income a beginner to the process. You employed who need to submit employment per year, the ability from self-employment during can save your tax return as a tax return - those who want to for the Self Assessment tax tax year 2018/19, whether or you go along and don’t have claim job-related expenses of return process to confuse and not that is your only income, to complete in one go but the more than £2,500 and taxpayers confound continues. With those you will need to declare this to later you leave it, the more likely who earn in excess of £50,000 earning any self-employment HMRC via a tax return and if your you are to run into unforeseen and also claim child benefit also income in tax year 2018/19 earnings are above the personal problems and difficulties - need to submit a tax return. face their first tax return allowance threshold, currently maybe you don’t have all the If you complete it and submit deadline on January 31, 2020. set at £12,500, you will have to information you require or now, you can still make changes The deadline for informing pay tax on your earnings. The have technical difficulties. and corrections up until the HMRC that you were self- deadline for both submitting While HMRC accepts deadline so it makes sense to employed during the previous tax a Self Assessment tax return reasonable excuses for delays get it out of the way early.

TRADE-WIRES.CO.UK For any WANTED information Fabric & regarding Haberdashery advertising in & any other craft Craft Business, clearance stock please call considered for Danielle Harris on immediate 01206 505954 collection. Exclusive range of craft wires Please contact Martyn and other craft products or email for trade resellers. danielle.harris@ [email protected] Contact: aceville.co.uk 07902 700 780 Tel: 01371 238 013

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