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£3.50 ISSUE 132 JUNE/JULY 2018 CraftBusinesswww.craftbusiness.com The leading trade title for the craft industry

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2 XXXXXXXXX NEWS 3

Create and Craft announces partnership with Euro Crafty Limited Welcome z Create and Craft have entered into a partnership with one of the leading distributors in the arts and z Mark Hayhurst z @craftbiz crafts industry with a specialism in mixed-media z [email protected] products from the four corners of the world; Euro Crafty Limited. z Craft is cool – some might not think so but I think it is now an In conjunction with Create and Craft, unavoidable fact. Euro Crafty will be bringing a number of craft Thousands of people visited the hundreds of sites from brands to the channel over the coming months, Peckham to Walthamstow, Brixton to Mayfair, during London Craft including DaliART, Pentart, Stamperi and Becky Week. Visitors met makers face to face as all things craft were Seddon as well as several new UK and USA celebrated. TV Exclusive suppliers including PipART, D’arts And one of the generations that is pushing craft forward are the and Sospeso Transparente, with a joint aim to so-called millennials. According to some statistics there are now as bring mixed-media inspiration to the world. many younger crafters as there are from older generations. Euro Crafty is the brainchild of Dalvinder Graham And the touch of a younger generation could be seen as Liberty (Dali) and Paul Griffin and was born from a desire to helped launch London Craft Week by announcing the winners of bring unique, affordable and quality products to the their social media Instagram-based talent search #LibertyOpenCall. market, giving crafters access to different mixed- The winners were sculptural designer Alex Chinneck, and media products from global companies. Dali will ceramicist Katch Skinner and Rūta Bartkevičiūtė. be the main guest demonstrator for the majority The recent Hobbycraft report stated that the crafting movement of the brands that Euro Crafty will be launching mixed-media following can grow with me, and in is a growing trend with almost two thirds of UK adults describing on Create and Craft, but the company will also be turn we as a company can grow with them too.” crafts as ‘fashionable’ and those aged 25-34 are the age group who introducing additional new and recognised faces too. Lindsay-Jane Vines, Create and Craft Managing think it the most (67 per cent). Dali said: “For us here at Euro Crafty, working Director, added: “Here at Create and Craft we couldn’t And it also millennials who are helping to push the mindfullness in partnership with Create and Craft means we will be more thrilled to be announcing this partnership. and wellbeing aspects of arts and craft – helping to take away the be working together to create and drive a mixed Euro Crafty have so much to bring to the channel, taboo of mental illness. media market which will enable us to educate from well recognised brands such as Dali’s own When it comes to switching off from hectic lives 54 per cent of and inspire a much bigger crafting audience. DaliART, to new to market suppliers which have the nation use craft to relax and 28 per cent of people use craft to “In working with Create and Craft we can see never been seen in the UK and USA before now. help with their mental health. And this can only be a good thing. the opportunity for both our businesses to work “Through our relationship with Euro Crafty and Social media has seen an explosion of crafters showing off their together and nurture one another on both continents. Dali, we will be able to bring even more inspiration makes on platforms such as Instagram and Pintrest. This shows Both companies have so much to give each other; and product innovation to the channel, working the pride in, and popularity, of arts and crafts. Create and Craft have a massive audience whose together to grow the mixed-media market.” So crafting is cool and we should all embrace it. Enjoy this month’s edition of Craft Business. Alibaba lawsuit highlights the ON THE RECORD “The word battle against counterfeiters z ACID has called on online platforms to take Liangshangmei; Yi Wu Yu Yi ‘mindfulness’ is responsibility in the battle against counterfeit Co; Gongzhiqian; ZFParty used a lot in goods. Handcraft; Qianyan; Anti Copying In Design, the UK’s leading Yiwu Import and Export crafting these days, design and intellectual property campaigning Trade; Universe Flag; and and it brings joy to organisation, made their call following the news QLLH. In each instance, that Stampin’ Up has filed a lawsuit against Stampin Up accused the my heart that it is” Alibaba in a US court for copyright infringement. defendants of selling “knockoff” Stampin’ Up, which produces and versions of its own stamps. MISS LIBBY ROSE sells decorative rubber stamps and other A Stampin’ Up! spokesperson said: “Stampin’ scrapbooking and paper craft supplies, filed its Up! has filed a copyright infringement lawsuit in the complaint at the US District Court for the District US Federal District Court of Utah against Alibaba. of Utah Central Division on Wednesday, April 4. com Hong Kong Ltd., the operator of the AliExpress TWO-THIRDS OF SME CRAFT AND DESIGN The lawsuit was filed against Alibaba, e-commerce platform; in order to stop the sale of RETAILERS SEE AN INCREASE IN SALES which operates the e-commerce platform counterfeit Stampin’ Up! products on AliExpress AliExpress, an online shop that allows by merchants not associated with Stampin’ Up! z Almost two-thirds (65 per cent) of the UK SME craft and design merchants to sell products across the world. We are committed to ensuring all of Stampin’ retailers spoken to have seen an increase in their sales over the last Dids McDonald (pictured), ACID CEO, said: Up!’s art and intellectual property are protected.” 12 months, according to a study commissioned by Royal Mail. On “Many of our ACID members are continually Stampin’ Up alleged that the defendants average, these retailers have seen a 19 per cent increase in sales in frustrated by the difficulties they face with have been selling rubber stamps with designs the last year. online infringements on online platforms such identical to its own since September 2017. The A spokesperson for Royal Mail Parcels said: “The craft and design as Alibaba and AliExpress. Taking action can infringing products are allegedly being sold sector is booming in the UK and it’s promising to see the level of put a huge strain on businesses and, more at dramatically lower prices than authentic confidence from SMEs in this space. At Royal Mail, we support many especially micro businesses, because it is Stampin’ Up products. It is believed that over retailers across a variety of sectors and we’re also helping to make cost and time debilitating made even more 90 of the plaintiff’s stamps have been copied exporting simpler through our easy to use Click & Drop system. We difficult in that online platforms differ in their and offered for sale by the defendants. look forward to supporting more craft and design retailers in the processes for take down, their response Between November 2017 and future”. time also is inconsistent and there is often March 2018, Stampin’ Up submitted 143 Over eight in ten (81%) of these retailers are confident that their resistance. There is growing pressure from takedown notices to AliExpress. sales will continue to increase in the next year. To grow sales, UK SME Government to create Codes of Practice not Dids McDonald added: “To put a scale on the craft and design retailers intend to list their products on more only to support IP owners but to hold online growing threats of online infringement, according marketplace sites (41 per cent), look for space in another physical platforms to account but this is a monumental to OECD statistics, imports of counterfeit and store (26 per cent) and use social media (22 per cent). task looking at the scale of infringements. pirated goods are worth nearly half a trillion dollars Over half (52 per cent) are also planning to increase their “If this lawsuit is successful it will send a year, or around 2.5 per cent of global imports and marketing spend and 34 per cent intend to take advantage of the a clear and resounding message that many of the proceeds going to organised crime. increased interest in UK exports. online platforms need to take the subject In the UK it is four per cent, well above the 2.5 per Gifts, artwork and jewellery are the most common products sold of IP infringement much more seriously. cent average share of fake goods in world imports by UK SME craft and design retailers. The UK Government, for example, has so there is even more of an issue nationally. Almost half (49 per cent) of UK SME craft and design retailers signed Memoranda of Understanding with “Counterfeiters take advantage of our export goods, with 50 per cent importing goods. 57 per cent of these many online platforms but the real proof trust in trademarks and brand names to retailers sell to overseas customers: three-quarters (74 per cent) are of change is what happens in reality.” undermine economies and endanger lives. based in Europe, 45 per cent in USA and 35 per cent in Asia. The The claim was also brought against Online platforms have to take their share of majority (63 per cent) of UK SME craft and design retailers are aiming AliExpress stores WuYu; KLJUYP; Coohool; responsibility for this global problem.” to increase their international sales revenue over the next 12 months.

www.craftbusiness.com 4 NEWS

HOBBYCRAFT LAUNCHES GREAT BRITISH BUTTON CHALLENGE z Hobbycraft has launched the Great British Overwhelmingly teachers believe that crafts Button Challenge, giving free buttons to schools should feature more at school with 66 per after revealing that one in five people in the UK cent believing that craft subjects should be can’t sew on a button. recognised as much as music and sport. 18 A class of their own or Nearly half of those aged 44-54 were taught Teachers and teaching assistants from fashion trendsetters? at school to sew a button on compared to across the UK will be able to pick up a Great Jenniffer Taylor takes a look at the just a third of those aged 25-34, revealing the British Button Challenge pack from Hobbycraft Royal Style Code generation knowledge gap when it comes to stores until 20 July 2018 (while stocks last). sewing. Specifically, 31 per cent of those aged The pack will contain a bag of buttons, as 18-24 cannot sew on a button compared to just well as stickers for pupils who’ve completed five per cent of those aged over 55. Women are the challenge and a colourful how-to guide. on top when it comes to sewing with nine in Hobbycraft is also giving teachers, parents ten women in the UK able to sew on a button and budding stitchers creative inspiration for compared to just three quarters of men. imaginative button makes, with fun projects to The research also polled over 2,000 teachers try and educational resources that link sewing to review the state of crafts on the curriculum. to school learning topics. Find out more at www.hobbycraft.co.uk/buttonchallenge Janet Ellis, Former Blue Peter Presenter, 30 24 hours as said: “It’s exciting to see Hobbycraft launch its A day in the life of Pentel’s Great British Button Challenge to skill up kids Lisa Davis-Lindholm with sewing. Basic skills, such as knowing how to sew on a button, are the foundation to a child’s education and we must not lose Janet Ellis teaches these traditional skills in favour of championing children from The more technology based skills. There must be Alderton Infant a balance of ensuring that the old skills aren’t School to sew thrown out in replacement of newer skills.”

34 The 2018 London Stationery Show attracts the crowds STOCK SHOT What went on at the Business Design Centre Mod Podge New Mega Glitter z The new “Mega Glitter” range from Mod Podge can be used to enhance projects with an intense glitter finish and a shimmering, lustrous shine. Layer coats for dramatic sparkle. Dishwasher-safe. Works well on jewellery, fashion accessories, decor projects and more. Available in three colours: Gold, Silver and Hologram. For supplies contact Personal Impressions on 01787 375241, 35 It’s all about being social visit www.personalimpressions.com Craft Business Awards 2018 winner or email [email protected]. Lion Brand Yarns tell us why social

In this issue media is so important SHIFTED UNITES ICELANDIC & Dressmaker of the Year SCOTTISH DESIGNERS AT XPONORTH z ShiftED brings together a group range of craft, fashion and and insightful discussion on winner is crowned of five Highlands and Islands textile makers from Iceland the challenges and benefits of designer makers with four and the Highlands and Islands. international collaboration. z With more than 2,100 entries from all across the collaborators from Iceland. Panel members include Carol XpoNorth is completely free globe, this year’s Dressmaker of the Year First created for Sinclair: Director, Sinclair Wilson to attend and accessible to all. competition certainly returned with a bang. DesignMarch 2018 in Ltd, Ýr Jóhannsdóttir: Creator, The ShiftED exhibition takes The 2018 Dressmaker of the Year competition, Reykjavik, the presentation Ýrúrarí, Netty Sopata: Owner & place at Inverness Museum run by Sew magazine and Make It Today Dressmaker, of collaborative pieces will Designer, Diggory Brown, Naomi and Art Gallery until July 21. attracted an amazing calibre of entries in six categories that be on show for the very first Mcintosh: Interdisciplinary You can register for tickets ranged from Everyday, Occasion, Children’s Wear to Upcyling, and time as part of XpoNorth in Designer and Helen Voce: via Eventbrite and the full Vintage. Inverness, from June 27-28. Independent Project Manager, programme can be found online. Lucy Jobber, editor of Sew, said: “When I found out we’d received Complimenting the Programme and Event Producer. For live updates follow more than 2,100 entries to this year’s competition, I was simply blown showcase will be a panel The panel offers insights into XpoNorth on Twitter: @XpoNorth away. From slinky vintage frocks to fun printed shirts, the huge variety discussion featuring a diverse the project plus a fascinating and use #XpoNorth18 of garments was hugely inspiring to see, and meant the judges certainly had a tricky task narrowing it down to just one winner! I’m already looking forward to what next year will bring.” The judging panel was made up of some the UK’s leading sewing STOCK SHOT experts: Stuart Hillard, Tilly Walnes, Libby Rose, the head costume designer from Strictly Come Dancing,Vicki Gill, and last year’s winner Portia Lawrie. The celebrity judges took their time putting each shortlisted Grafix Artist-tac garment through a detailed vetting process, with marks allocated on z Grafix Artist-tac is a high TAC dot adhesive that only fabric choice, pattern matching, technical ability and wearability. goes where you want. Offering edge-to-edge coverage with Stuart Hillard said: “My fellow judges and I were overwhelmed with no mess, no odour and it’s acid-free. the standard of entries and the enormous love, dedication and style our Artist-tac is easy to use; just pull liner sheets apart, place entrants put into each and every garment.” embellishment onto the microdots and peel off only the The title of Dressmaker of the Year went to Jennie Stones adhesive you need. Quick and economical this adhesive (pictured), from Leeds, who wowed the judges with her Children’s Wear won’t leave bumps or spray hazard. Available in 3 sizes; entry, a polka dot dress made with exquisite pleating and attention to 5.5x9”, 8.5x11” 11x17”. detail. www.grafixarts.com

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 5

Specialist arts and crafts provider, Stitch & Story takes Kuretake UK, rebrands to Pirika UK z Formerly operating as creativity, which is strongly US market by storm Kuretake UK, specialising in associated with the products sign, art and craft products offered to customers. z Stitch & Story, a knitting to professional sign While the business has kit manufacturer, has designers, artists and hobby enjoyed great success supplying seen sales increase in enthusiasts, has confirmed Kuretake ZIG products, a new the last year as a direct its new brand identity as it brand provides an exciting result of exporting to the looks to further expand and opportunity to diversify the US, following support meet customer demand in product range and evolve the from the Department for an ever-changing market. business for the future, including where the business is International Trade (DIT). The rebrand to Pirika UK, Kuretake ZIG products. today as we develop and With offices in Dartford, and Rayoci International in Amanda Mason will now be grow for the future beyond Kent, and North Greenwich, Europe will see the business responsible for the day-to-day just the Kuretake range. London, the business undergo a transformation into running of the business, while “Customers will have distributes to US an independent company, Kaoru Osaki, Chairman and more options to choose from marketplace Uncommon having operated in the UK CEO, will concentrate his efforts new and exciting product Goods, as well as and Europe since 1986 on sourcing and developing lines from new suppliers independent gift stores and under the Kuretake brand. new business partnerships. that complement the current retailers. The exporting opportunity was secured after Stitch & The new brand identities Amanda Mason, General product range and we’re Story exhibited its products at consumer trade show, NY NOW, signify the company’s Manager Pirika UK and looking forward to taking the with support from DIT. Japanese heritage and have Rayoci International, said: business forward, providing The trade show highlighted an international demand for the been chosen to reflect energy, “Our new brand identity and our customers with the very company’s products and prompted the business owners to set-up passion, imagination and restructuring better represents best arts and crafts products.” a US purchasing arm on its website. The success of Stitch & Story’s international expansion is being celebrated in DIT’s Exporting is GREAT campaign. They are one of 30 plus companies – encompassing every sector and region – Belfast business event empowers being championed in the campaign, which looks to inspire and support businesses up and down the country to export. Since embarking on its exporting journey last year, the women entrepreneurs business has doubled its turnover and expanded its team from z Independent Demonstrators two to five employees in nine months. In total, 42 per cent of for crafting company Stampin’ revenue is generated as a direct result of exporting. Up! UK gathered from across In the UK, its products are stocked at several retailers, Northern Ireland for an including Liberty, John Lewis and Fenwick. inspirational crafting and business After the success of exporting to the US, the business now event in Belfast this month. has its sights set on Australia, Switzerland, Germany and France, Stampin’ Up! UK is to increase market share in front of a large craft audience known for its exclusive line Jenny Lam, Director and Co-founder of Stitch & Story, said: of decorative stamp sets and “After securing deals with some of Britain’s most-loved accessories for paper crafting, department stores, we wanted to maximise revenue potential and scrapbooking and home décor. decided to set our sights further afield. The company operates via a “We knew that getting our products in front of the right buyers network of independent, self- was the key to international expansion. Our trip to the NY NOW employed sales consultants, tradeshow, supported by DIT, helped us secure a deal with known as Demonstrators. Uncommon Goods, which paved our way into the US market. The Demonstrators gathered “It’s no secret that there are plenty of perceived barriers when in the historic setting of Crumlin out the chance to get some female entrepreneurship it comes to exporting. Customs arrangements and tax regulations Road Gaol to listen to business invaluable business advice would play a crucial role in can be a bit daunting, but there’s plenty of help available. Our talks, share creative ideas- and from their experienced peers. closing the earnings divide. trade adviser at DIT provided us with legal advice, as well as have some fun with crafting. Recent research suggests Paula Gorry, Demonstrator sharing useful resources, which made the process far less The fun-filled event also had a that women are still facing an Development Manager at daunting.” serious purpose; to inspire the unfair disadvantage when it Stampin’ Up! UK, said: “We were Ben Raby, Head of the Department for International Trade’s attendees to make successes comes to starting their own delighted with the turnout at South East region, said: “It’s fantastic to see Stitch & Story grow of their businesses and to equip businesses, experiencing our Belfast business event. It its sales so significantly as a direct result of exporting in the them with the knowledge and more difficulty in finding equity was great to see so many of past year.” advice necessary to do so. A financing than men. This is our Stampin’ Up! Demonstrators Firms looking for support should visit www.great.gov.uk which NEEDCRAFTquestion 1.4 5and COL_ADS answer segment08/03/2018 12:27despite Page the1 fact that a recent taking the time to collaborate, gives UK businesses access to millions of pounds’ worth of with a panel of Demonstrators at report on UK’s gender pay gap share ideas and support each potential overseas business, helping them start or increase various stages in their Stampin’ by PriceWaterhouseCoopers other as they navigate their exporting. Up! careers gave those starting found that encouraging individual business journeys.”

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www.craftbusiness.com 6 NEWS

Beat the Summer Slump Claire Hamer, Hunkydory trade sales manager, examines how to keep your customers interested

❚ For many of us the mention of build a project over a month or the opportunity to shop when summer means sun, sand and two. Alternatively run drop-in it’s convenient for them. Why holidays and makes us smile. classes but give customers a not celebrate the longest day However for independent craft discount if they sign up to a by organising a mid-summer retailers the outlook can be a little six or eight-week programmes. crafting party. Mid-summer is gloomy in the summer months, This will keep your classes full often associated with flowers, Commemorative especially if the weather heats and give your store a busy feel. so use this as a starting point up. It’s important to engage with Customers are also likely to buy for your planning. This could customers over the summer extras whilst they’re in store. be decorate a floral headband, curtain is highlight of months and keep them coming floral-based card making or learn into your store or visiting your z SUMMER SALE to crochet or applique flowers. website. How do you keep Everyone loves a bargain and Wonderwool Wales your customers interested? reducing older lines for a Summer z TRAVEL JOURNALS ❚ A wall-to-wall Curtain of Poppies, featuring 79,300 knitted, Sale will not only increase sales For your customers that are crochet and felt poppies, took centre stage at this year’s z FAMILY FUN but it’ll free up shelf space for going away over the summer, Wonderwool Wales. Many of our customers are also new lines. Run your summer sale travel journals are a fabulous The curtain brought together contributions from knitters and parents, which means the six before you get your Christmas idea. There’s a great range of fibre fans from all over the UK and abroad. It formed a colourful week school holiday period can lines in and use it as a good products available to stock, highlight of the showcase of Welsh wool and natural fibres at the be one of the toughest parts of reason to have a good clear from the journals through Royal Welsh Showground, Builth Wells, Powys, on April 28 and 29. the year for juggling work, child out and clean up in store. to journaling pens, stickers The show’s Curtain of Poppies caught the imagination of care, social time and keeping and papers. There’s also the today’s community of knitters and fibre fans and encouraged the kids entertained. By offering z COME IN TO COOL OFF opportunity to create a travel them to recreate the united determination of the women at home “craft with your kids” sessions, If your store has air conditioning journal from scratch. This makes during World War One, who “did their bit” to support the troops you customers can kill two birds or is generally a cooler space, a great class and you can tailor overseas by knitting gloves, scarves, balaclavas and socks. with one stone, by keeping the use it as a selling point to get the style to your customer Individuals contributed everything from one poppy to more kids and themselves happy. customers through the door. If base, be that clean and simple, than a hundred, some sending them in memory of named not be creative and try moving grungy or mixed media. members of their own family who died in the Great War. z CHRISTMAS IN JULY your classes outside, a local Curtain of Poppies organisers, mother and daughter Olwen Many manufacturers launch their park is a great meeting place. z CELEBRATE and Jane Veevers were delighted by the response. Olwen said: Christmas products in June and This is easier with knit and THE SUMMER “We would like to thank everyone who has contributed. Poppies July to allow crafters plenty of natter, crochet and cross-stitch There’s generally a lot going have piled in from all over the UK and even from Europe and time to get creative before the but if you have papercrafters, on in the summer from local North America, often accompanied by cards, photos and notes festive season. Why not get your offer them cold drinks in store fetes and carnivals to music explaining contributors’ reasons for getting involved. It’s been customers ahead by organising to keep them from overheating, and food festivals. Consider truly amazing.” a Christmas in July event. Get especially if they’re spending taking a stall at some of these After its debut at Wonderwool Wales, A Curtain of Poppies the Christmas decorations out, extended hours in store, for sales, events or asking the organisers was taken straight to Powys County Council County Hall where it put on the Christmas music on, demonstrations or classes. about advertising or leaflets remained on display during May. It will then be exhibited at the serve some nibbles and celebrate to promote your business. National Wool Museum of Wales until the end of June. It will be the Christmas craft releases z LATE NIGHT OPENING Alternatively tie in a promotion on display at the Gower Heritage Centre during July and August, with demonstrations, make Consider changing or extending and decorate your window to the Newtown Textile Museum during September and next year and takes and special offers. your opening hours through gain the most of additional (2019) it has been offered a permanent home at the Gower the summer months. Many people being in your town. Heritage Centre. z WEEKLY CLASSES people want to enjoy the daylight As the sun comes out Next year’s show is on April 27 and 28. For more details visit: To keep you customers visiting and be outside in the nicer keep smiling and make your www.wonderwoolwales.co.uk. Like Wonderwool Wales Ltd on over the summer months weather. Opening later in the shop a place people want to Facebook or follow on Twitter @wonderwoolwales organise weekly classes that evenings gives your customers be over the summer months. And the results are in ❚ During March the public New possibilities for artists voted in their thousands to help Stylecraft choose the new ❚ New additions to the uni PIN fineliner pen Chris Dove depicting the cityscapes of Lisbon, shades in their super-popular range provide further possibilities for artists, Hamburg and Prague. There is also an extensive sock yarn, Head Over Heels. architects, graphic designers and doodlers. image and video library available to retailers on But there was an air of Already a favourite among creatives, the request. mystery to the competition. pen collection now has a new super fine Contact: Mitsubishi Pencil Company Stylecraft’s Blogstars, inspired black 0.03 nib, an expressive brush tip and email: [email protected], tel: 033 0100 9933, by the artist David Hockney, additional shades of sepia and grey. web: www.uniball.co.uk had put together their own The 0.03 nib and brush tip has expanded the colour combinations. Which black uni PIN fineliner range from nine to 11 colour combination belonged calibrated tip sizes allowing for a wealth of to which Blogstar was a creative finishes. The new super fine 0.03 tip can closely guarded secret, locked produce intricate dots and lines. The new brush in a vault at Stylecraft HQ. tip is firm for added control and great for There were two categories, Category: Head Over mastering brush script and expressive drawing. melange and stripe variations, Heels Melange: Sandra Paul Inspired by artists’ sketch books through the and the top three in each would from Cherryheart; Helen Kurtz ages, the new Sepia and Grey uni PINS come in become part of the Head over from Josie Kitten; Phil Saul 0.1 and 0.5 nib sizes. The sepia shade has a rich, Heels range for Autumn 2018. from The Twisted Yarn. earthy hue that works for landscapes and wildlife “This competition has been Category: Head Over Heels studies. The subtle light grey pens are perfect for such fun and lots of people were Stripe: Julia Marsh from Hand delicate sketches, while the charcoal-like hues of trying to guess which colours Knitted Things; Lucy from Attic the dark grey models allows for atmospheric, belonged to which Blogstar. It 24; Zelna Olivier from Zooty Owl. evocative artworks. was so difficult to keep it secret,” Six members of the public The expanded range is available in a variety says Annabelle Hill, Sales and that voted have also been of packs and as individual pens. New packs Marketing Director at Stylecraft. chosen to receive a pack of feature exclusive artwork from architectural artist The new range will be called all the new colours when they Head Over Heels All Stars. are released in the autumn.

www.craftbusiness.com NEWS 7

Brother’s Cover Stitch machines scoop an iF Design Award z Brother Sewing has picked the best choice out there for up a prestigious award for its both users and dealers.” Cover Stitch sewing machines Now in its 65th year, the iF at this year’s iF Design Awards. Design Awards is recognised The brand’s CV3000 Cover as the world’s largest design ICHF Events partners with Crafty Stitch series – for both beginner competition, attracting and professional dressmakers thousands of product entries Beggars for Creative Craft Show – was singled out by the from 50 countries expert judges for its innovative across the globe. z The Crafty Beggars, Julie Peasgood and Wendy Turner Webster, design and functionality. Both machines in will be taking on the role of ambassadors for the popular Creative Stuart Stamp, who is on Brother the range, the CV3440 Craft Shows in 2018 and 2019. Sewing’s marketing team, said: and CV3550, provide Julie and Wendy, the Crafty Beggars on Together TV, inspire and “We’re constantly investing in cover hem functionality entertain crafters all over the UK - embracing up-cycling and recycling our technology so it’s good for a professional finish, and showcasing the very best of British crafts and creativity. Working to be recognised in such a and allow users to in partnership with ICHF Events, they will bring their crafting magic to prestigious awards programme. hem and topstitch garments or using a chain stitch for the Creative Craft Shows running workshops at the NEC, Birmingham “For me, this accolade just with ease, thanks to a user- hems, the models are ideal on June 29-July 1 and November 1-4, as well as ExCeL London on confirms the fact we’re leading friendly threading system. for sewers of varying skill November 15-17. on product development in Whether creating durable levels, and can be used on all Armed with tools, materials and expertise, the Crafty Beggars will the sector – and that we’re strapping for athletic garments types and weights of fabric. show visitors how to make stunning bracelets, turning unwanted magazines into gorgeous handmade beads. Workshop availability is limited, visit http://bit.do/creativecraftshows Jodie Firmin, ICHF Events show development manager, said: “This STOCK SHOT is a really exciting partnership. Julie and Wendy are hugely popular and their workshops are brilliantly engaging.“ The show’s creative team has introduced a series of new features Artistic possibilities to the 2018 show programme. The Creative Craft Show in NEC, z Additions to the Mitsubishi Pencil Company uni-PIN pen range Birmingham (29 June-1 July) sees the launch of a brand new national provide further artistic possibilities with a new super fine black 0.03 sewing competition, Sew Your Style, launched in association with The nib, an expressive brush tip and new shades of sepia and grey. Pattern Pages. 033 0100 9933 IMPRESS ARTDressmakers 1.2 with 3mm can white choose border_ADS to enter pieces 31/05/2018 in four 10:44 categories Page 1 [email protected] including vintage and upcycling. www.uniball.co.uk To find out more visit www.ichfevents.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com 8 NEWS

The British Heart Foundation launches The Big Stitch z The British Heart Foundation (BHF) is calling all crafty fashion fans to help the fight against heart disease by taking part in The Big Stitch campaign. Launching between July 1-5, 2018, shoppers can put their creativity and sewing skills to the test by adding their own personal stamp to an item they find in one of our shops and be in with a chance of winning an amazing prize. Taking part couldn’t be easier, all shoppers have to do is pop into their nearest BHF shop, buy a piece of clothing or accessory and upcycle it! BHF shops are full of amazing finds that can easily be adapted to personal style. Whether it’s fraying, tasselling, graffiti or stencilling, shoppers can show off their fab creations by entering our competition. All shoppers need to do is upload their ‘before’ and ‘after’ pictures by tagging the BHF on Twitter, Instagram or Facebook, and include the hashtag #TheBigStitch (remembering to show the BHF tag in the ‘before’ image). All tagged images will be Mustard’s thoughts showcased on their online photowall and the winners will be chosen once the competition closes. But shoppers don’t have to wait until July to get started – they can pop into a BHF shop with family and friends now to start on wellness at work planning their Big Stich project. Not only will shoppers be creating a truly unique piece for their wardrobe, but all items brought from Ella Jinadu, Digital Content Writer/Manager at Mustard, explores BHF shops helps fund research into the fight for every heartbeat. how millennials are leading the charge for mental wellbeing z Over the past few years there’s adding some fun and colour to to look forward to and take been a growing emphasis on your working day that can help pleasure in doing their jobs. promoting wellness at work. cheer you up when all the reports With our growing social While mental health used to and meetings get a bit too much. media presence - in particular the be pushed under the carpet and After all, it’s the little things that colourful content we post on our was seen as an inconvenience to can really turn your day around. @mustardlondon Instagram - we business rather than something Not only are our products are perfectly situated to spread to tackle head on, more and more designed to make every moment our #workhappy philosophy to companies are starting to be spent at your desk a joy, but we millennials, who also happen aware of - and embrace - the steps also run a blog dedicated to the to be our key demographic. that they can take to improve work happy movement. From Millennials are engaging with their working environment. From top tips for brightening up your companies that promote wellness cycle schemes to peer support desk to spring cleaning your at work, but that do so genuinely. groups, the business world is workspace to inspire positivity, With Mustard, wellness is at waking up to wellness at work. we want workers everywhere the heart of what we do. Leading the charge are none other than the avocado eating, flat-white consuming, and Netflix loving millennials. Far from being superficial as is often portrayed TRIMCRAFT ANNOUNCE NEW in the media, millennials are using their favourite tool – social CORPORATE PARTNERSHIP media – to share, help, and inspire each other to eat healthily, WITH MIND work happily, and live better. From blog posts to Twitter, z Trimcraft have entered a corporate Participation in arts and crafts can play Instagram to Pinterest, the partnership with the charity, Mind. a really important role in improving people’s millennial mental health Mind provide support and advice to wellbeing, helping them with major movement has pushed anyone experiencing a mental health challenges such as loneliness and mental employers, the media, and even problem, as well as working to improve health problems. the government to start paying services, raise awareness and promote Kathleen Miles, Director of Fundraising real attention to wellness. It’s understanding. With a network of services for Mind, said: “We’re delighted to be due to millennials voting with across England and Wales, Mind can supported by Trimcraft. We know the their feet (or, perhaps more provide specialised support directly to those power that creative activities can have to accurately, their keyboards) that who need it most. improve people’s mental wellbeing so it companies such as Pepsi and feels like the perfect fit to be partnering ‘Crafternoon’, the largest craft-based mental Ford have been promoting and with Trimcraft. Every penny raised from the health fundraiser in the country. funding schemes that seek to partnership will mean that Mind can Trimcraft, the Nottingham-based arts help us live happier. Thanks to continue to provide vital services, like our and crafts supplier, have long promoted the the bottom up wellness push, Infoline and online advice services, so health benefits of arts and crafts as a being a credible business in 2018 people can make their own choices and positive process for anyone struggling with means listening, understanding, access the treatment and support that is mental health, they believe there is a craft out and contributing to this long right for them. This partnership will help us there for everyone to enjoy and benefit from. overdue mental health movement. make sure no one has to face a mental Trimcraft will be supporting their new And this is where Mustard health problem alone.” charity partnership through their products, comes in. We don’t just promote Previous research suggests that social media and volunteering. wellness at work as an empty crafting of all kinds could be good for Satyen Fakey, Trimcraft CEO, said: “Core phrase; we genuinely care. From mental wellbeing, with benefits such as to Trimcraft’s mission is to help people our own working days enjoying helping people to relax and unwind, focus express their creative personality. Our fruit and yoga in the office to the on producing something, as well as offering partnership with the UK’s leading mental products that we produce, our the chance to spend more time with others. health charity will not only provide funding focus is consistently on working Mind hears from many people that to support mental health, but our product happy. Brightening up your desk crafting has changed their lives for the donations will help achieve our mission in with a T-Rex Highlighter or Banana better and encourages people to support the form of crafting therapy to improve Sticky Notes isn’t just a style its work by putting on their own mental health and social wellbeing.” statement; it’s an honest way of

www.craftbusiness.com BACK TO SCHOOL 9

Forget summer – winter is on the way so wrap up well Philippa Warford, Marketing Assistant at King Cole, looks at what yarn choices there are for winter z Is it too soon to be thinking of frost and snow with the sun blazing down? Not really, if you want to get ahead for the back to school period. Parents, grandparents and extended family will be looking for projects to get ready for the new school year. purse-friendly yarns, and our We are spoilt for choice Riot DK wool-blend has stunning GRAFIX 1.4 3 col_ADS 31/05/2018 14:14 Page 1 when it comes to deciding colourways, that will be the talk which colours, fibres and of the playground. designs we slip on to our hooks For those particularly chilly and needles next. months, the cosy, chunky yarns, A popular choice is Merino such as Big Value Multi Chunky, wool, such as King Cole Merino Comfort Chunky and the extra Take the strain Blend DK, as it is particularly huggable Yummy, with a perfect for children, due to its super-squishy touch are bound breathable properties that to be a big hit. out of hemming prevent overheating. The vast Make a display in your store, array of colours to choose from add some finished items to gets those creative juices show what can be done and it is Sharron Belcher, Vlieseline Brand Manager flowing for all kinds of unique sure to catch the eye and draw colour combinations. in customers. UK, explains the benefits of Wundaweb Our Premium Acrylic yarns Put together a bundle or kit are also great for back-to- that customers can just pick up school hats, gloves and but remember to offer a choice z With children returning to inside the hem, ensuring that no scarves, due to the durability of yarn for their favourite school after the long break, it’s wundaweb is exposed. Cover the and incredible softness against colours. time to think about clothes for hem with a damp muslin or thin the skin. Pricewise DK and Big For all the pattern inspiration the new term. cotton cloth. Press firmly with a Value DK are incredibly you need, head to kingcole.com. And almost always, because hot iron for ten seconds and kids sprout up so quickly, parents move along the hem, pressing often leave a bit of ‘growing room’ each section in the same way. Lift in the clothes that they buy. So and press rather than gliding the what can store owners do to iron to avoid distorting the fabric. make things easier for parents? Allow to cool for ten minutes. The good news is that there’s There are two different size no need for stitching hems packs available and another thanks to the wonders of specifically designed for thicker Wundaweb. This fine, fusible and tougher materials. webbing tape bonds fabric Remember to be inventive to quickly and easily, providing a attract more customers. natural but secure finish. It is washable and dry cleanable and a z EASY HEMMING real boon when time is of the WUNDAWEB essence. • Ideal for fusing hems on Wundaweb has numerous skirts, trousers, dresses and uses beyond the gym slip so it is house-hold fabrics a good mainstay to keep in the • Suitable for washing (60 workbasket. From adjusting degrees) and dry-cleaning curtains to making bunting, it’s a • Always test first quick fix solution for anyone who • Full instructions on back of can use an iron but doesn’t want pack the drudgery of sewing hems. • 5mx20mm pack: Make sure that you point out • 20mx20mm pack: to parents the benefits and display well in your stores – it z EXTRA STRONG might even be worth putting on a WUNDAWEB demonstration as term time This extra-strong hemming web approaches. has double strength adhesive for To use, simply fold and press those tougher materials. the hem. Place the Wundaweb • Ideal for fusing denim jeans hems, work wear, canvas fabrics, soft furnishings and craft applications • Suitable for washing (60 degrees) and dry-cleaning • Always test first • Full instructions on back of pack • 3m x 20mm To find out more about Vlieseline products, please visit; www.vlieseline.com

www.craftbusiness.com 10 PROMOTION Putting creativity in your hands Innovations in uni PIN fineliner pens and curated POSCA marker collections provide new creative options for retailers and customers alike says Ella Johnston, artist and brand ambassador for uni-ball z New products, collections angle or speed of writing. This are also great for adding depth and retailer resources from firmness gives excellent control and texture to hand-lettering. Mitsubishi Pencil Company so you can truly master brush The choice of nib sizes across provide a wealth of artistic script and expressive brush the uni PIN fineliner range also possibilities and gifting pen painting techniques. offers a choice of professional opportunities for your finishes and the power to create customers plus a plethora of z STYLE AND SUBSTANCE expressive tonal effects. These display ideas for the retailer. The new Sepia and Grey uni pigment ink pens boast Super Ink Additions to the uni PIN fineliner PINS provide even more pictorial Technology, which keeps colour “Artists are always on the pen collection opens up new ideas. Inspired by artists’ sketch solid and vibrant, so art-work creative solutions for artists, books through the ages, these won’t fade or bleed through paper. look out for reliable, high while curated POSCA collections classic colours come in 0.1 and offer the chance for crafters to 0.5 nib sizes. The sepia shade z RETAILER RESOURCES quality products that place own whole colour collections has a rich, earthy hue that works The expanded uni PIN fineliner of their favourite markers. really well for landscapes and range is available in a variety of creativity in their hands” wildlife studies. The subtle packs and as individual pens. z THE ARTISTS’ CHOICE light grey pens are perfect for New packs feature exclusive images of both Dove’s work boxes and containers and plain Artists are always on the look delicate sketch work, lay-outs and artwork from architectural and that of the nature artist ceramics as well as paper and out for reliable, high quality shading, while the charcoal-like artist Chris Dove depicting the Ella Johnston plus video card. They are also great on products that place creativity in hues of the dark grey models will cityscapes of Lisbon, Hamburg tutorials to display in-store and glass, giving you the option their hands. The uni PIN fineliner expand your drawing repertoire, and Prague. There is also an on social media channels. to use them for an illustrated range is already the go-to choice allowing you to create evocative extensive image library available window display that you could for artists, architects and graphic artworks. Both grey shades on request featuring lifestyle z A MULTI-CRAFT MARKER get customers to colour in. designers. Now new innovations A crafters’ favourite, POSCA in the collection provide even pens work on most surfaces z THE GIFT OF COLOUR greater artistic options with including fabric, glass, One of the POSCA range’s great the launch of a super fine ceramic, stone, wood, metal strengths is its wide selection black 0.03 nib, an expressive and canvas. The markers of colour and finishes, boasting black brush tip and new pen are perfect for personalising 40 plus different shades from shades of sepia and grey. clothes, creating decorations bright primaries to pretty pastels The black uni PIN fineliner or designing a greeting. that suit all styles and seasons. range has expanded from nine to Water-based and non-toxic, There are also additional 11 calibrated tip sizes (from 0.03 these paint pens dry opaque creative options provided with to a new brush tip) allowing for a with a matte finish and solid bright fluros, rich metallics and wealth of creative finishes, from colour. Unlike alcohol-based special sparkly pen packs. fine, pin-point detail to expressive markers POSCA will not bleed The fluro sets come in vivid brush strokes. The new super fine through paper, making them pink, orange, yellow and red, 0.03 tip can produce the most a good choice for journaling, while the on-trend metallic pack intricate dots and lines, making colouring-in and card-making. showcases shades of blue, it ideal for delicate drawing and Because POSCA pens purple, pink, reds and bronzes as precise technical sketches. work on so many surfaces well as the traditional gold and Unlike other brush pens, uni they can really help to up-sell silver. With eight gorgeous jewel- PIN’s new brush tip is firm, other products such as papier- like colours, this Sparkling POSCA so it adapts to your pressure, mâché and MDF shapes, plastic pen set is ideal for kids’ crafts and looks amazing on fabric. You can also get entire colour collections of POSCA pen sizes in smart crafter-friendly storage boxes. Sizes range from PC-17k chisel tip pens, adored by sign-writers and street- artists, to the super fine PC-1m markers enjoyed by graphic artists and papercrafters, plus a wide selection of nib widths in-between. These collection boxes would work brilliantly as part of a gifting idea display.

z MORE FOR YOU As with uni PIN fineliners, POSCA has a comprehensive media archive of images, video tutorials, and project how-tos for retailers to utilise in-store, online and in any advertising or publicity campaigns. Simply contact: Mitsubishi Pencil Company email: [email protected] tel: 033 0100 9933 www.uniball.co.uk

www.craftbusiness.com BACK TO SCHOOL 11

It’s going to be a riot of colour in the new school year We take a look at what Staedtler and Pentel have on offer for the Autumn term

z If kids are feeling glum, dark and dreary then it looks like what’s going to fill their pencil cases is definitely going to brighten up their return to the classroom. Term-Time Essentials, Staedtler’s popular themed STOCK collection of stationery for the back to school period, is back for SHOT 2018, featuring promotional offers across the comprehensive range of key best-sellers, exciting new New Pastel line products and high-impact displays. Rachel Owen, Marketing z Taking advantage of the Manager, Staedtler (UK) Ltd, ongoing trend for pastels, said: “You may not automatically STAEDTLER is offering the think of stationery as a fashion new Pastel Line collection “You may not automatically think of item but it most certainly is. including a dedicated stationery as a fashion item but it most “At Staedtler, we introduce counter-top display. themed collections each year www.staedtler.co.uk certainly is” in response to trends we have 0845 600 5930 spotted. For example, our 2018 REBECCA SAUNDERS – HEAD OF DEVELOPMENT FOR NOTONTHEHIGHSTREET.COM range includes neon, pastel, nature, tropical, ocean and flamingo- According to Pentel, the value of Pentel’s Classroom themed sets of our popular “You may not automatically popularity of coloured inks is Essentials pencil case, on offer triplus fineliners and fibre tips. think of stationery as a fashion set to continue, with demand at only £3.99. Containing seven “Particularly strong this year for out of the ordinary shades products, including an EnerGel is the trend for pastel shades item but it most certainly is” increasing, as students use pen, ballpoints, a mechanical and so we have incorporated a different palette of colours pencil, a highlighter, eraser and a number of new themed pupils imagining and drawing Pentel Marketing Manager for projects, artwork and self- a ruler the set is supplied in sets into our Back to School their dream job, using the iconic Wendy Vickery says, “We editing, while teachers choose a see-through, exam-friendly range to satisfy this demand. yellow and black striped Noris would advise parents and colours such as green, pink or case. The complete set would Recognising the importance of pencil, Staedtler’s hero product. students to spend their money violet for marking homework. normally retail at around £8.00. high impact displays in-store, The six sheet campaign will wisely, investing in products The company’s quick-drying A choice of blister cards we have also designed a space- appear at over 700 nationwide that are fit for purpose rather EnerGel pens play a starring featuring EnerGel pens, ballpoints, saving countertop display sites carefully chosen for their than copious quantities of role in this year’s Back to School markers, pencils and correction featuring the Pastel collection.” proximity to a Staedtler stockist. suspiciously low-priced pens promotion, with the highly popular products, available with a Staedtler’s range will receiveSTEADTLER a To 1.8 extend 3 COL_ADS and boost 31/05/2018 the 10:46that Page often 1 fail to work, or leave EnerGel X selling individually at space saving counter display massive promotional boost from impact of the campaign in-store, ink splodges over the page. under £1.00 a pen, or in sets of unit is available at just £1.99 their new outdoor advertising Staedtler is offering eye-catching “In an age of digital six or nine with pro rata pricing. per card, giving customers campaign which will run during freestanding display units, technology it’s so important In addition to everyday black, exceptional opportunities to the critical weeks leading up available free of charge. Designed that a student’s experience with red and blue, green, orange, pink, offer great value this season. to the new school year and is to continue the outdoor theme, the writing instruments is a positive sky blue and violet ink are also Finally, for filing project expected to reach over 25 million visually striking units feature the one, so it’s false economy to fill available – great for journaling work, essays, recipes and adults, a third of whom have Noris pencil prominently on the a pencil case with poor quality or colour coding notes, themes home admin Pentel’s range children in the target age group. same bright yellow background. items that simply don’t deliver. and ideas, or for teachers to of Recycology display books With the engaging strapline The displays will be stocked either “Of course, we recognise mark homework and projects. and presentation files offers a ‘Draw your future, earn your with Staedtler’s recommended mix that budgets are finite, so All EnerGel pens have colourful alternative to traditional stripes’, the creative treatment of best-selling back to school lines what goes into the pencil quick-drying ink which reduces filing products. Available in a features a series of school or with a selection of products case needs to be affordable smudging on hands and paper range of bright, attractive colours, specified by the customer. and that’s why Pentel has put and is ideal for both right the files all benefit from being Finally, new for back to together some fantastic offers and left-handed writers. made from at least 50 per cent school 2018 is a specially created on some of our most popular Pupils and parents will recycled material, but without series of Noris stationery sets, products for Back to School.” both appreciate the excellent compromising on quality. further supported by a free consumer prize draw every month to win a Samsung Tablet and Noris product bundles. Back to School with Pentel will be packed full of opportunities for craft retailers and stationery suppliers to get students and families writing, studying, designing and creating this summer. Inspired by feedback from students and young adults that as well as seeking value for money and quality, strong motivations to purchase are also colour and choice, Pentel’s summer promotion contains a colourful range of writing instruments, filing products and art materials, priced to appeal to customers and consumers alike.

www.craftbusiness.com ROYAL TALENS dps_ADS 01/06/2018 10:57 Page 2 ROYAL TALENS dps_ADS 01/06/2018 10:50 Page 3

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Proud supporter of everyone’s back to school Counter display containing the best sellers of the Back-to-school range. The display contains colour pencils, imagination – since 1948 fineliner sets, compass sets, graphite pencil sets and kneadable erasers. A compact display, ideal for a 1898 – Cornelis Bruynzeel founded the wood processing temporary A-location presentation. factory in Rotterdam in 1898, Bruynzeel the brand was born, and rapidly developed into a leading supplier of flooring, kitchen cabinetry and doors. After the second world war, the Dutch government wanted to re-establish the educational system and Bruynzeel was asked to produce a comprehensive range of coloring and graphite pencils, given their vast experience and knowledge in wood and woodworking. 1948 – The first pencils were produced from the Zaanse Bruynzeel factory. BZL Colour Pencil 24 Dark BZL Fineliner Set 12 Special trendy-look tin with the 24 most popular coloured 1968 – The factory was moved to Bergen op Zoom. BZL Tin 12+6 Free Pencils Light Triangular model fineliner in 12 pencils. Suitable for a wide target group. Made with Special metal tin with the 16 most 1997 – The Bruynzeel brand was acquired by the modern colours, suitable for a wide environmental-friendly wood, high quality pigments and popular colour pencils and 2 graphite Japanese Sakura Color Products Corporation, today it is target group and perfect for the double glued for easy sharpening. school bag. Made with metal-clad pencils HB. The colour core is made part of Royal Talens, renowned for innovation since 1899. nylon writing tip, water based ink in from the best colour pigments and 2018 – Royal Talens is recognized for stimulating a barrel and cap pen. has a minimum chance of breaking creative expression worldwide through the developing when sharpening. Perfect for the school bag. high-quality brands and products that stimulate people to BZL Sketchbook A5 paint and draw. A trendy A5 sketchbook that fits perfectly in the Teen range. 30 250gm sheets of ultrasmooth acid free and long life paper. Made with care from wood acquired in an BZL Display environmental-friendly way and 100% cellulose. 1898 • 1948 • 1968 • 1997 • 2018 120 Kneadable Eraser Kneadable Pencil Perfect erasers are Our pencil packs follow young, modern designs aimed at Teen’s must-haves for the back-to-school season. All of our very popular pencils are made from wood acquired in an environmental-friendly way, using the finest graphite for the perfect transfer. amoungst teenages. BZL HB BZL Burotek BZL HB BZL Suitable for Graphite Tin 6 Graphite Graphite Box 12 pencil, charcoal Pencils + Pencils Pencils + Graphite or just for fun Sharpener Eraser Pencils plus they & Eraser The tried and remain pliable trusted A blister A set with for a long time. A blister Bruynzeel High- with 5 12 pieces Available in with 2 Quality writing pieces HB HB graphite trendy colours graphite pencil with a graphite rubber and a transparent pencils HB. yellow finish. In rubber tipped display. The blister a handy metal tipped pencils with also pencil case pencils. a black contains a with 6 different finish. sharpener degrees of www.royaltalens.com and eraser. hardness. Contact: Yogesh Karia | [email protected] ROYAL TALENS dps_ADS 01/06/2018 10:57 Page 2 ROYAL TALENS dps_ADS 01/06/2018 10:50 Page 3

PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Proud supporter of everyone’s back to school Counter display containing the best sellers of the Back-to-school range. The display contains colour pencils, imagination – since 1948 fineliner sets, compass sets, graphite pencil sets and kneadable erasers. A compact display, ideal for a 1898 – Cornelis Bruynzeel founded the wood processing temporary A-location presentation. factory in Rotterdam in 1898, Bruynzeel the brand was born, and rapidly developed into a leading supplier of flooring, kitchen cabinetry and doors. After the second world war, the Dutch government wanted to re-establish the educational system and Bruynzeel was asked to produce a comprehensive range of coloring and graphite pencils, given their vast experience and knowledge in wood and woodworking. 1948 – The first pencils were produced from the Zaanse Bruynzeel factory. BZL Colour Pencil 24 Dark BZL Fineliner Set 12 Special trendy-look tin with the 24 most popular coloured 1968 – The factory was moved to Bergen op Zoom. BZL Tin 12+6 Free Pencils Light Triangular model fineliner in 12 pencils. Suitable for a wide target group. Made with Special metal tin with the 16 most 1997 – The Bruynzeel brand was acquired by the modern colours, suitable for a wide environmental-friendly wood, high quality pigments and popular colour pencils and 2 graphite Japanese Sakura Color Products Corporation, today it is target group and perfect for the double glued for easy sharpening. school bag. Made with metal-clad pencils HB. The colour core is made part of Royal Talens, renowned for innovation since 1899. nylon writing tip, water based ink in from the best colour pigments and 2018 – Royal Talens is recognized for stimulating a barrel and cap pen. has a minimum chance of breaking creative expression worldwide through the developing when sharpening. Perfect for the school bag. high-quality brands and products that stimulate people to BZL Sketchbook A5 paint and draw. A trendy A5 sketchbook that fits perfectly in the Teen range. 30 250gm sheets of ultrasmooth acid free and long life paper. Made with care from wood acquired in an BZL Display environmental-friendly way and 100% cellulose. 1898 • 1948 • 1968 • 1997 • 2018 120 Kneadable Eraser Kneadable Pencil Perfect erasers are Our pencil packs follow young, modern designs aimed at Teen’s must-haves for the back-to-school season. All of our very popular pencils are made from wood acquired in an environmental-friendly way, using the finest graphite for the perfect transfer. amoungst teenages. BZL HB BZL Burotek BZL HB BZL Suitable for Graphite Tin 6 Graphite Graphite Box 12 pencil, charcoal Pencils + Pencils Pencils + Graphite or just for fun Sharpener Eraser Pencils plus they & Eraser The tried and remain pliable trusted A blister A set with for a long time. A blister Bruynzeel High- with 5 12 pieces Available in with 2 Quality writing pieces HB HB graphite trendy colours graphite pencil with a graphite rubber and a transparent pencils HB. yellow finish. In rubber tipped display. The blister a handy metal tipped pencils with also pencil case pencils. a black contains a with 6 different finish. sharpener degrees of www.royaltalens.com and eraser. hardness. Contact: Yogesh Karia | [email protected] 14 BACK TO SCHOOL Big demand for personalisation in the classroom ImpressArt’s Laura Avitabile explains how to

BEADALON mini_ADS 31/05/2018 10:40 Pagecapitalise 1 when children return to school

z For hand stampers, back One popular hand-stamped item to school is one of the most that parents purchase before lucrative times of the year. school begins is backpack Following personalisation trends tags. These can be hand from the likes of Pinterest and stamped with the child’s name, and jackets. Some parents even of unique design stamps that Etsy, there is a high demand initials, classroom number, or purchase key chains for their can better help to personalise for personalised pieces during any other labels required by children with their bus numbers these back to school items the back-to-school rush. teachers for the classroom. on them so that they can ensure based on hobbies and interests. For parents, personalisation Other ways that parents that they never forget it. Most of these projects are simple is a trendy and practical incorporate personalisation into For teachers, there are a variety and can be created by crafters of solution for differentiating their their children’s back-to-school of fun ways that they can add all levers using basic ImpressArt children’s belongings as they PEAKDALEsupplies 1.8 2 col_ADSinclude hand-stamped 31/05/2018 14:15 Pagea personalised 1 touch to their tools and supplies. ImpressArt begin a new school year. tags for pencil cases, lunch boxes classroom with hand-stamped places a strong emphasis on items. These include birthday education, and provide their calendars, supply organization resellers with targeted materials tags, and even book marks. While for their product selection teachers often purchase these including tutorials in the form on their own as they prepare their of tear sheets, electronic files, classrooms for the start of the and videos, making it easy for year, they make excellent back- crafters to ride the wave of this to-school gifts from students personalisation trend, just in to their new teachers or from time for back-to-school sales! loved ones of teachers as they To view a full range of wish them well at the start of the ImpressArt stamps and products year. ImpressArt offers a variety visit www.impressart.com.

www.craftbusiness.com PROMOTION 15

Inspire everything imaginable with the new Crayola range from Creativity International Ltd

z Autumn/Winter 2018 will Crayola is synonymous Ben Cornwell, of see a fantastic rainbow of with playful fun, bright vibrant Creativity International, kaleidoscopic colour from colour and imaginative said: “Each Crayola Creativity International creative play and these kits pack contains bright Ltd with the launch of engineered by Creativity colourful elements for children their new range of Crayola International will brighten the to spark their own awesome creative craft essentials. retail environment, whether imaginations. From gemstones There are over 80 different in store or online. The packs to paper people, foam smiles collectable craft packs each are priced from £1 to £6 to foam unicorns, we have bursting with colourful essential RRP giving ample scope for developed some brilliant packs “Choose from bright International Ltd who are fully craft elements to give families pocket money purchases, for kids, families, craft and after buttons, tinsel stems, behind the Crayola brand. hours of kid-powered creative fun. gifts and multi-purchase. school clubs to get creative. dinosaurs, beads, big tubs Warren Schorr, Vice- of assortments, craft sticks, President of Business wiggly eyes, match sticks, Development and Licensing at “Children will love the colours, textures, numbers and symbols, dolly Crayola, added: “We are excited pegs and more. Children are by the broad range of Crayola shapes and collectability of the packs and we guaranteed hours of great fun, craft essentials produced by letting their imaginations run Creativity International. Children are thrilled to add Crayola colour to inspire riot into a safe and mess- will love the colours, textures, free world of creativity.” shapes and collectability of the CRAYOLA 1.2_ADSkids 31/05/2018 to be 10:42 creative Page 1 and express themselves in Crayola point of Sale packs and we are thrilled to options, spinners, offers and add Crayola colour to inspire all new ways” competition support are kids to be creative and express WARREN SCHORR – VICE-PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND LICENSING AT CRAYOLA all available from Creativity themselves in all new ways.”

www.craftbusiness.com 16 BACK TO SCHOOL Award winning social stationery range, Noteworthy from docrafts continues to fly Jo Bray, Managing Director - Sales & Marketing West Design Products and docrafts, explains why people are falling back in love with stationery z In this current digital age that Noteworthy, which made we live in, our communication its stationery debut last month is becoming increasingly at the London Stationery Show, electronic. Workplaces would was designed with the key grind to a halt without email, while consumer being the 18-35-year- we keep in touch with friends old female. Looking for on-trend and family via text, messaging stationery with a premium feel apps and social media. Even but at an economical price, our jewellery allows us to Noteworthy delivers on all points. receive messages day or night Three designs were from anywhere and anyone. introduced, offering the end Yet against this digital consumer something a little backdrop, we, as a nation have bit different. They could either fallen back in love with stationery buy into the entire collection, – or at least social stationery. or dabble between the ranges With market analysts predicting at “Queue line” pricing. the retail stationery market is set The on-trend range is the to grow by almost £50 million sloth. Pictured hanging from in the next five years, who is branches, this marvellous buying all this stationery? mammal can be found on Ironically, it is the millennials everything from pens, pencils, who are the key consumers – notebooks to file dividers, the people who are plugged into decorative tape and more! The their smartphones wherever you Shaped Sticky Notes were also look. They can communicate awarded commended in the with one another at the touch Novelty award at the Stationery of a button on their smart Show while the It’s a Sloth’s Life phone. The growth is driven by Organiser was commended the rising trend of purchasing in the Dairies, Organisers and Week to View pages for every brushstroke candy striped whether you’re note-taking at a stationery as gifts, increased and Calendars category. month, as well as Thoughts and designs in mint, lemon and meeting or doodling in the park. product ranges, and design- The sloth is also the mascot Ideas sections, making it totally candyfloss look good enough to Striking yet elegant, this led products and innovation. for the handy A5 Planner retailing unnecessary to waste time lick! As we finally say goodbye debut stationery collection All of which leads to the newly at £12.50. This spiral bound book logging on to digital devices. (hopefully) to April showers includes 16 items comprising launched range by docrafts. has an acetate cover, 12 dividers Let these lovable layabouts that seem to have lingered, and pens, pencils, an organiser, bring a smile to your face every summer just round the corner, it’s notebooks, file dividers, time you reach for your stationery time to dust off the deckchairs sticky notes, decorative tape drawer, and if you can’t decide and hit the beach! Evoke the and more. Exclusive to the which essentials to stock up essence of the classic British Graphic Florals range is the on, let the Stationery Sets in seaside with this classy, cool and Desk Organiser and the A3 two different sizes (large and with a touch of vintage stationery Desk Pad. The two stationery small) do the job for you. collection, including pens, pencils, sets, large and small really do The other range available to an organiser, notebooks, file contain some of everything all in the brand new Noteworthy dividers, sticky notes, decorative and make the perfect gift all collection is Pastel Hues. New tape and more. The range for under £5 or £10 retail. to the stationery sector, the includes 19 products with 14 of Finally, make a statement them retailing for under £5 and in the filing cabinet with the the maximum retail of £12.50. bold, feminine File Dividers. Keep your social life ship- The three-pack contains a pink, shape with the A5 spiral-bound peppermint and white divider, Planner, and sketch out your each with a crisp rose design crafty creations in the A5 and uplifting slogan: ‘Live Laugh Notebook. As you do so, be Love’, ‘Be Happy’ and ‘Love Life’. sure to take the advice from All ranges are available the slogans at the top of the both as individual lines and pencils - ‘Think Happy’, ‘Express also docrafts offers the Yourself’ etc how could you not? opportunity of a double-sided Finally, the star of the Pastel metal stand to showcase Hues is the ballpoint pen. There’s the ranges at their best. nothing like a pom-pom dangling The results at the Stationery from your pen to brighten your Show demonstrates the day. This fluffy addition to the success of bringing a craft- Ball Point pen is a must for based ambience to what is every die-hard stationery diva normally perceived to be a and retails for just £2.99. very traditional product range. Finally, timeless and beautiful, These must have products, at the pink rose is given a modern a genuinely affordable price, face-lift with bold brush-strokes need not be limited to the in Noteworthy’s Graphic Florals target millennial market. collection. Set against light For more information, please pink, pale green and vivid blue contact West Design Products backgrounds, the eye-catching on (01303) 297888 or sales@ designs are sure to turn heads westdesignproducts.co.uk

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A class of their own or fashion trendsetters? Jenniffer Taylor takes a look at the Royal Style Code and how it creates opinions and influences sewing patterns

z I was sitting in the Though Lucy and Hillary shorts in all weathers until the hairdressers having a rare pointed out that they think that age of eight, when they would pampering moment, when I Kate’s wardrobe has become ‘graduate’ to wearing trousers. overheard two ladies (Lucy, the too formal, and they wouldn’t Just look at any pictures of the hair dresser and Hillary, the wear anything like that as she is royal family and you will see client) in the next chair; talking ‘dressing like a 50-year-old and has this is one tradition that has about the Royal wedding of totally lost her original style’. Which no sign of going away. Though Harry and Megan. Obviously I thought was a harsh but quite not a ‘all year round’ high street ‘The Dress’ was the main topic interesting comment and it also staple, but you do find chino style of conversation which came shows that what the royal style shorts in the children’s section with controversy as they felt code does do, is create opinion. of most outlets every year. With time being of the like the wedding jewellery gifts to that the dress was ‘too plain However, does being Giving young boys that smart essence, I created my own pattern the newly wedded couple, Harry and simple’ and ‘Kate’s (wedding part of the royal family mean ‘quintessential English’ look. using the selection of dresses; and Megan. This dress will be dress) was much nicer’! having to adopt their rules One royal ‘style rule’ that I however, having the opportunity treasured and timeless in style. This got me thinking of dress to the letter? think has really taken hold this to do research now, there are so So, do I think the young about what impact the royal This then got me thinking year is princess Charlotte’s many dressmaking patterns out royals are trend setters? wardrobe has on consumer about the young royals, prince dresses. Oozing traditional style there! Burda has a good selection Honestly no. I don’t think boys designs, whether this is George, princess Charlotte and and techniques like smocking, to choose from, along with the wearing smocked gowns dressmaking patterns or high newest addition prince Louis and yokes and frills. Versions of matching bloomers as well as and shorts will be something street ready to wear garments. what they are allowed to wear. these dresses can be found boys’ dungarees and sailor suits for the masses, but these Asking my hair salon everywhere in high street stores which is also a royal style classic. long-established designs and neighbours, ‘what do you see or pattern houses like Simplicity Simplicity’s 1950’s toddler’s techniques will always be the royal children wearing, when and Burda to name a few. vintage dress and panties, is something that influences you think of them?’ Without So much so, that this another example where it was fashion for both children hesitation, shorts was the first style has creeped into my fashionable then, and even and adults of any ‘class’. item of clothing mentioned. sewing room without my more so now; with it being Embroidery, smocking and ‘All the royal boys have always awareness until now. brought back into production yoked garments are definitely in worn shorts, haven’t they - I I was recently tasked with for the modern market. the current limelight of our shop don’t understand why?’ making my niece, Emmy Lou’s My christening gown creation windows and sewing magazines. I later found out that this is a christening gown out of my (pictured bottom left) had the all Traditional and classic lines will very specific ‘style rule’ that the sister-in-law’s wedding dress. the tell-tale signs of royal daytime always be here. They have the boys have to follow, as etiquette Gemma (my sister in law) also chic. With a yoked bodice, cap ability to change with the times expert William Hanson explains brought along a few of Emmy sleeves, button down back with and not become ‘out dated’ …. to Harper’s Bazaar UK: “It’s a Lou’s dresses that she wanted understated lace detail. Though Unless you are a prince wearing very English thing to dress a the gown to be based on. technically a hand-me-down a smocked gown of course. boy in shorts - it’s one of those I didn’t see it at the time but garment; It was refashioned from To hear more about CRAFT COTTON 1.3_ADS 31/05/2018 10:41 Pagesilent 1 class markers. Trousers each dress has several things the wedding dress that was made Jenniffer Christening gown are for older boys and men.” in common with that royal ‘style for Gemma, by her mother in law, creation head to www. Dating back to the 16th rule’ that Gemma was clearly Ineke Beryln. Passing it down jenniffertaylor.co.uk or follow her century, boys would wear taken by. Traditional but so cute! through the generations, much Instagram page @jennibobtaylor

www.craftbusiness.com SEWING INFLUENCERS 19 Sew Influential! Get Thready for a Sewing Revolution Angela Sara West talks to some of the hottest influencers CHINELO BALLY z Great British Sewing Bee 2014 finalist, Chinelo about their sewing stories, sharing tips and tricks of the trade, Bally, is relatively new to dressmaking but in the space of a few short years she has become a the new embroidery movement MASSIVE influencer. “My Sewing Bee experience was so enjoyable! I often make myself outfits on the day I’m due to wear them, or the night before, so I z With the British sewing boom showing no signs of slowing down, sensational sewers and was, and still am, very used to working under pressure. It seamstresses are savouring showcasing their sewing skills and creations on our screens and was loads of fun, I met some amazing people, and learned new tricks.” social media. From famous faces on TV, to a new wave of sewing vloggers on YouTube, big names An unconventional sewer, Chinelo uses a freehand approach to the in the craft are being followed by fixated fans in their millions. craft. “Freehand cutting is actually the traditional way of dressmaking. Get set for some serious sewspiration! It was done before the invention of commercial patterns and is still practised in many parts of the world, although with variations. I chose to learn freehand cutting because that was the only sort of sewing that met my need to be original; I didn’t want any restrictions.” JENNIFFER TAYLOR Being a runner-up on Sewing Bee has opened great doors for z Midlands-based sewing ambassador and Unafraid of a challenge, Chinelo, and she now runs her own bespoke womenswear business, author, Jenniffer Taylor, is determined to get the the first garment she made alongside workshops all over the UK. She has also taken part in nation sewing. She has a phenomenal following happened to be her wedding other TV programmes, does demos at craft fairs, has created for through her blog, social media channels, TV/ dress and, with just a year’s famous faces, and has written a book, Freehand Fashion, published magazine appearances and her demonstrations sewing experience under her by Pavilion, sharing her skills, techniques, basic blocks and projects. and teaching at nationwide workshops and events. belt, talented Jenniffer made Chinelo’s brilliant blog, meanwhile, offers tutorials on freehand Jenniffer is profoundly passionate about her TV debut on BBC2’s Great cutting projects and little updates on what Chinelo is up to. My fun encouraging people to pick up that needle and British Sewing Bee in 2014, battling her way fast-paced, highly-interactive workshops aim to arm participants with thread and join the #sewingrevolution! through to the quarter-final, which kickstarted her a new skill they can go on to develop very own #sewingrevolution. “I’ve not looked back and to proudly leave with a finished, since!” She’s made everything from cushion covers or almost finished, garment. to gentlemen’s jackets and her famous dress, which features in Ineke Berlyn’s book Collections. Through her love of upcycling, cutting up old shirts etc. to make dresses, skirts and bags from the material, Jenniffer is also a ‘supercrafter’ for the #loveyourclothes project, which encourages people to think twice about throwing away unwanted clothes and items, and revamping and refashioning them instead. “I want to take the fear out of sewing and upcycling is a fantastic way to get started. We all have clothes that we no longer wear and are likely to throw away but this is a great source of fabric and with a basic sewing kit you’re ready to get making! Jenniffer’s passion and influence has not gone unnoticed by industry leaders such as John Lewis, Ariel Korbond, Immediate Media and Vlieseline, with whom she has collaborated on projects and events. Facebook 2K+ Instagram 2.5K+ Twitter 3.5K + www.jenniffertaylor.co.uk

ANNIKA VICTORIA z A new wave of make-do-and-mend sewing is the satisfaction I get from knowing actually think I use vloggers are hooking in millennial makers I’m the only person in the world with a sewing as a way to in their millions. Among this new generation particular piece of clothing. My favourite exercise the creative of sewing enthusiasts accumulating a things to sew are dresses and swimwear.” part of my brain, and colossal fanbase is 25-year-old amateur Now the top sewing/DIY fashion channel give it a break from the seamstress Annika Victoria from Sydney, in Australia, Annika is idolised by her highly- more logical and Australia, who established her hugely-popular engaged community of sewists. protocol-following world YouTube channel in 2014 to document her struggles “My internet presence has allowed me to reach out of molecular biology. and triumphs in learning to make her own clothing. to other crafters AND people with chronic illnesses all That said, I think the With a worldwide reach, her audience is around the world and problem solving skills predominantly from North America, the UK, Australia make little that I’ve developed and Germany and, as the top sewing/DIY fashion communities around through my science channel in Australia with more than one million views a both, which has been degree have come in month, the part-time student says her successful amazing because I feel useful in pattern-making and manipulation. It’s certainly sewing empire is her main source of income, very connected to both helped with the maths aspect of that!” “I started sewing as a way to cope with my chronic a lot of likeminded Instagram: 74,000 followers illness (Takayasu’s Arteritis) when I was first diagnosed people, and people (@LITTLEPINENEEDLE) and going through chemotherapy seven years ago. I’ve who totally get what YouTube: 670,000 subscribers always loved fashion, and being able to make my own I’m going through as Twitter: 7000 followers garments seemed a very exciting prospect as well!” well. Find Annika Victoria here: Youtube | Website | “I love being able to imagine a design in my head “Because I’m still Instagram | Twitter and make it come to life. My favourite thing about studying science, I http://www.annikavictoria.com

www.craftbusiness.com 20 SEWING INFLUENCERS

LAURA MINTER AND TIA WILLIAMS - LITTLE BUTTON DIARIES z Award-winning Brighton-based bloggers’n’vloggers, Laura Minter and Tia Williams, share their love of all things creative through Little Button Diaries. “We each have two children (our buttons) so a lot of what we make is either for, or with, them. We’ve also written eight craft books for kids (published by GMC) and we love what we do!” Proving that having kids doesn’t mean you have to stop doing the things you love, they’d both been sewing for many years but really got a taste for the craft whilst on maternity leave with their first children. “Suddenly a whole new world opened up to us! We found that sewing things for babies was so much more exciting than making things for us… the fabric is cheaper and you don’t have to worry so much about fit. Our favourite things to sew are toys. We made a lovely Christmas elf last year and summer skirts for the girls.” Instagram @littlebuttondiaries 8,855 followers Blog www.littlebuttondiaries.com

JAMIE “MR X” CHALMERS - MR X STITCH HEATHER LOU z Midlands-based Jamie “Mr X” Chalmers, aka Mr X Stitch, has - CLOSET CASE PATTERNS been changing the way people think about embroidery for a z Montreal-based Heather Lou is a pattern designer, blogger decade. Quirky and different, he is determined to change the way we and sewing educator for the modern maker. She has taught perceive embroidery, putting his own unique spin on the craft. thousands of people to sew, both online and in her sold-out He chanced on his passion for sewing 15 years ago. “I tried cross sewing workshops across North America. stitch for a laugh and discovered what a profound effect it can have… Heather rediscovered sewing in 2011. “I was in debt and sick of it’s the ultimate mindfulness.” my unhealthy relationship with fast fashion; I wanted to slow down and Describing his style as “Bleeding Edge Cool!” Mr X Stitch uses unusual materials and feel a connection to the clothing I wore. Learning to sew totally transformed my techniques, such as glow-in-the-dark threads and stitching on metal. relationship with my body and sense of personal style and it quickly took over my life. As well as providing exciting designs to stitch, he gives guidance on creating your own As a result, I started my business, Closet Case Patterns, to share my passion and love cutting-edge designs and showcases the work of other contemporary cross stitchers and for sewing.” new talent in the world of textiles and stitch who are pushing the boundaries of their craft. She says her company’s patterns are unique due to the depth of detail and Mr X Stich is a much-loved champion of what he has dubbed the new embroidery construction. “We do not shy away from more advanced designs and believe that all movement. “I’ve evolved into a curator/ambassador for embroidery, and the irony is that I of our patterns can help create garments as beautiful and professional as any don’t get a lot of time for stitching anymore.” high-end ready-to-wear available in stores. Hand-in-hand with our design philosophy What gives him the edge over his competitors? “I take this stuff seriously but not too is a commitment to skills development; our instructions and resources are thoughtful seriously, and am prepared to share the work of artists whose content might be too and thorough, and should make even a novice maker feel confident in their abilities to graphic for some people. Because I’m not what you’d expect from a needleworker, I tackle more challenging projects.” disarm your preconceptions. And that allows us to have a dialogue about embroidery With ‘Jenny’ their latest pattern, what’s next for Closet Case Patterns? “I am so without the gender discourse coming up.” excited for the sewing patterns we have planned for the coming year! Our fall pattern Instagram – 33k followers has been in the works for years; it’s the most advanced design we’ve ever created, Facebook – 17k fans and I think it’s going to really persuade a lot of people that there is nothing the home Twitter – 8k followers sewer can’t accomplish.” Pinterest – Over 800k monthly views (I kid you not!) Blog: 180-200K visits a month Instagram: 52K followers https://closetcasepatterns.com https://linktr.ee/closetcase.patterns

www.craftbusiness.com SEWING INFLUENCERS 21

JESSICA JANE PILE - PRODUCTION DIRECTOR AT HAND & LOCK LISA COMFORT z Originally from Kent, Jessica Jane Pile personal favourites pieces - SEW OVER IT trained in Theatrical costume design at the have been for the project for z Yorkshire-born Lisa Comfort is the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, Gilbert & George, Kim Jones founder of online and London-based sewing is the author of the fabulous book Fashion (formally of Louis Vuitton), business, Sew Over It. “I started sewing with Embroidery: Embroidery Techniques and and Brian May from Queen.” my childminder when I was young and over the Inspiration for Haute-Couture Clothing (Batsford) The world’s finest provider of Hand Embroidery years it became my mission to get other people as passionate and is the youngest Production Director in the since 1767, Hand & Lock are London’s premier about dressmaking as I am. After studying at the London long history of London-based Hand & Lock, embroidery house, specialising in Goldwork, College of Fashion, Lisa worked for British designer, Bruce Europe’s pre-eminent embroidery atelier. tambour beading, silkshading, monogramming Oldfield, and then bridal couture designer, Phillipa Lepley. Super-talented Jessica says her interest in and bridal embellishments, and providing With two friendly fabric shops in London, she also runs embroidery began while she was at university. embellishment services to the Royal Family, fun sewing classes. “I opened Sew Over It in 2011, when “I studied costume construction and ended top European design houses, the Royal Armed the sewing revolution was just beginning to take off. Since up doing a lot of research into period and Forces, Savile Row and members of the public. then we’ve taught thousands of people to sew in our London contemporary embroidery for different Since becoming a Director in 2014, workshops and, now, through our online sewing classes. It’s shows. I guess it snowballed from there!” Jessica has expanded the Embroidery School been amazing to watch the scene grow to the size it is today!” Her extensive understanding of costume with the introduction of year-round classes, Sew Over It also has its own range of sewing construction and couture embroidery coupled including Tambour Beading, Goldwork, patterns and Lisa has published three books, including with her ability to organise large scale production, Silkshading and Monogramming, plus an her bestseller, My Capsule Wardrobe: City Break. makes her a stand-out talent in the sewing world, annual Festival of Embroidery and transformed Fans flock in their droves to the vintage-style sewer’s and she’s the go-to embroiderer for famous the Hand & Lock Prize for Embroidery into website, where her popular blog offers behind-the-‘seams’ faces, members of the Royal Family and high- a world-class couture competition. goings on, sewalongs, patterns, her YouTube vlog and tips and profile fashion labels, including “Our classes have been tricks. In January 2017, Lisa launched her second website, Gilbert & George, Louis Vuitton, running for about 10 years now, where you check out her creative adventures, and another Burberry, Aspinal and Adidas. “My and we recently expanded to YouTube channel, where she shares more of her creative life teaching in America, which has Sew Over It Instagram - 64.3k been really successful.” The Lisa Comfort Instagram - 26.8k Festival of Embroidery sees https://sewoverit.co.uk series of talks and classes over http://lisacomfort.com/ a week. “We ask a range of linktr.ee/lisacomfort professionals to come to our studio and talk about their area of expertise in a very intimate setting of around 40 guests. It is really great to immerse yourself in a new subject.” www.handembroidery.com

DEBBIE VON GRABLER-CROZIER – PRETTY THINGS BLOG z Born and raised in Australia, Norfolk-based across the UK, US, Germany, blogger/sewing author/ pattern writer and Australia and, occasionally, popular designer, Debbie Von Grabler- South Africa. “The day job at Crozier, discovered her love for sewing at an the moment is writing my patterns early age. “ When I was a young child. I used for my favourite regular magazines and I am to stay on my Nana and Pa’s farm in the middle also developing a pattern range to be released of nowhere in 1970s Australia. There wasn’t later in the year, alongside writing books!.” much for a child to do, so my Nana taught me She has written two craft books, to cook and to sew. I have been making things The Bag Boutique and Lagom (both ever since then and 21 years ago, when my with Search Press) and is currently son was born, I decided to make a career of it. working on her third, a sewing title. It was the best way to have a profession and Her inspiring Pretty Things blog offers stay at home to look after my (then) little boy.” giveaways, tips and techniques, a Block of the A professional craft writer for over 20 Month, her punch needle adventures and more. years, she’s regularly published in magazines Bagaholic? Look no further than Debbie for invaluable instruction on making everything from cute clutches, to denim bags to match jeans. “I am booked for more and more bags and this is the side of my career that I am happy to develop. Some of the bags that I have made make me feel quite exhausted when they are finished. I use a lot of algebra and geometry to make sure that my patterns are technically perfect, so it can be quite a cerebral exercise.” http://sallyandcraftyvamp.blogspot.co.uk

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MOLLY AND HARRIET – SECRET LINEN STORE BRENDA KILLIGREW - z Molly and Harriet are designer linen, cushions, throws and and recycles sisters who love bedtime so curtains are manufactured in your old DIRECTOR & FASHION much, they decided five years selected factories in Portugal. bed linen. If EDUCATION CONSULTANT, ago to make everyone’s bedtimes Molly said: “I would also like you would as great and comfy as can be. to mention our Little dresses like to get INKBERROW DESIGN CENTRE “We’ve sought out the best-quality for Africa project. We send all of involved and (IDC) linen and cotton that we can find our customers a quick step-by- make a dress , z Inkberrow Design Centre (IDC) in Worcestershire is to turn into our beautiful bed linen step instruction leaflet on how you can see how and find all one of just a handful of fashion design and craft centres collections, available in a myriad to turn their old pillowcase into you need to know at https:// outside London that provide professional courses and of patterns and colours offering a dress for a child in Africa, we www.secretlinenstore.com/all- classes in sewing, corsetry, fashion design, clothing customers plenty of choice to collect them and send them about-little-dresses-for-africa” construction and textiles/crafts. “IDC is a National allow their bedrooms to look as on to the charity. It’s a great Instagram: 7650 recognised City & Guilds fashion sewing and textile craft good as they dreamt them up!” project, it helps children in need Twitter: 3800 centre created by myself in order to provide flexible learning The duo won #OnlineBusiness opportunities. IDC is unique in that craft and sewing courses of the Year for their company, can be worked around your requirements,” explains Brenda Secret Linen Store, at the 2017 Killigrew, Director & Fashion Education Consultant. British Small business awards “Many people want to learn to sew but find they don’t and their fantastic blog, which have the time or work and life gets in the way. We at IDC, features interiors tips and can create a class around your timetable and provide interviews with interior designers, you with the space needed to concentrate on learning a including Sophie Robinson, new skill. The centre runs City & Guilds classes all year, with whom they have recently from level 1 to level 3 Diploma in the Creative Industries, collaborated, and well-known so over the last 27 years I have seen over 2,000 students SEARCH PRESS 1.4 3 col_ADS 31/05/2018 10:46furniture Page designers 1 and chefs, gain City & Guilds qualifications, using this learning was recently shortlisted at the pathway to go on to better things and change lives.” Amara Interior Blog Awards‏. Brenda discovered her passion for sewing at the age of With everything designed ten. “I was helping at a neighbour’s house after school. She by the girls in-house, their lovely was a corsetry expert and tailoress. I brought my first sewing machine with my first month’s wages when I was 16 and went on to produce pin-stripe suits in the 1970’s for everybody at work. I love to engineer in cloth. Tailoring is my passion, working at CHSI Show , Birmingham N.E.C. with VLIESELINE allows me to see all the forward trends in Cloth Design.” The IDC is now reinventing itself to include more one-day workshops. “We are finding that many people want to learn the basics of a technique and then develop it in their own time. Working with Community learning organisations like Workers Education Association, so we can run subsidised courses, to help Low Mental Health community, this will give a wider access to new learning for this community. Thus, IDC has launched a range of one-day workshops which include dyeing, pattern cutting and basic skills in sew essentials such as how to sew a zip and repairs, upcycling projects.” “Working with Jenniffer Taylor, we are creating Sew Essentials workshops in partnership with Korbond, to get the nation sewing. We are also developing a range of online digital courses which people can subscribe to over the internet. And finally, watch out for our YouTube channel which is part of our Outreach programme to promote sewing skills to a global audience.”

RACHEL PINHEIRO – DRESSMAKING BLOGGER Brazilian blogger, Rachel Pinheiro’s online platform House of Pinheiro celebrates a handmade wardrobe. “My blog comes from a place of excitement and the aim to share what I have learned with others. I have a lot of tutorials and inspirational posts.” She’s a strong advocate for freestyle dressmaking and a favourite collaborator for sewing brands. “For me, 2017 has been a strong year in terms of strengthening relationships with brands. Knowing that past collaborations have been really successful and taking the time to build future long- term plans. I still pinch myself with what I have achieved in three years. My favourites have been my sewing pattern collaborations. More to come on that… no spoilers.” With a love of fashion since she was a child, she says she has always been a creative person. “But working on blue chip companies and traveling the world as a project manager I never had a chance to explore this side of my personality until I suffered from a back injury. I had a lot of free time and used my creative energy on a childhood dream… making my own clothes.” How does it feel to be such a huge influencer? “I feel incredibly privileged to be in this position. I still see my space as my little community hub where I meet incredibly talented people and a safe place to have fun and be creative.” Instagram 36K Other medias combined 20K website: http://houseofpinheiro.com

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INFLUENCERS IN THE CREATE & CRAFT FAMILY! Top TV stitchers at Create and Craft, Debbie Shore, Wendy BECKY COLE Gardiner and Sarah Payne, are well-established much- z Becky Cole’s role as a guest demonstrator for Create and Craft loved sewing influencers, while two new sewing guests on TV sees her focussing on sewing, quilting, and dressmaking. Professionally the channel, Becky Cole and Bernadette Wainwright, are trained, she has a background in TV and film. “My sewing work comes from the heart. also now busy doing their influential bit for the craft. I am passionate about what I do and if I can inspire one other person to pick up a needle then I feel I have done a good job.” She enjoys seeing her ideas come SARAH PAYNE to fruition. “I love watching something that started as z As one of the resident sewing demonstrators at Create and Craft, Sarah a picture in my head become real. My favourite things Payne creates samples for her shows, ensuring viewers see all the relevant to sew are corsets and wedding dresses. There is so features of a product, and answers customer queries. “The personal touch in much emotion and sentiment attached to a wedding this competitive market can give you the edge. Being approachable and dress, so to be a part of that is very special.” understanding the needs of your customers is key. I remember all my early “I always used to be inspired mishaps, so I can help people avoid similar mistakes.” by people like Zandra Rhodes, She has a particular fondness for making quilts. “To me, gifting a quilt feels like giving a hug. It is as she was never afraid to try something that offers warmth, comfort and can be held close to the skin, so it is extremely personal.” something new. Nowadays, I am Watch out for Sarah at the forthcoming Festival of Quilts. “I’ll be at stand QIA30 there in August, inspired by anyone who might my first range of fabrics will be launching in December and my first book is be afraid by the prospect of planned for launch next summer!” sewing but picks up a sewing Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/SarahPayneQuilter/ machine and starts anyway.” approx. 4.7K followers Her favourite ever make? Twitter - https://twitter.com/sezpayne approx. 1.3K followers “Apart from my own wedding Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sezpayne approx. dress, was a clown costume 1.3K followers worn by Sophie Thompson YouTube Sarah Payne Quilter approx. 1.5K subscribers in the 2008 series Big Top.”

WENDY GARDINER BERNADETTE WAINWRIGHT z Fellow small-screen sewer, Wendy z “I am very excited to be demonstrating on Create and Craft and Gardiner has worked for the leading pattern promoting all things Singer!,” says Bernadette Wainwright. “Although companies and with all the main sewing I have only recently begun blogging and writing tutorials, I have been a machine, haberdashery and fabric companies. sewer and teacher of sewing for many years. I design and make children’s “I currently guest present on Create and Craft for clothing from the finest of materials, my favourite being fabrics from Liberty Brother Sewing Machines, McCalls/Butterick and of London.” She has an Etsy shop, LittleMissDressCo., Vogue Patterns and Hemline haberdashery. I am also the Brand along with a Facebook page, Bernadette Wainwright Ambassador for The McCalls Pattern Company and an advisor Little Miss Sewing, where she posts pictures of recent to Hemline.” makes and feedback from her customers. “I am now Wendy runs her own sewing classes locally and is the also on Instagram, as LittleMissDressCo, with just author of 17 books, including The Great British Sewing Bee from under 300 followers, a figure which is rising daily.” Style to Stitch (from the fourth series). “I also Her favourite ever make? “That’s easy... it would have a class on craftsy.com and am about to have to be my wedding dress. I’m currently designing write another two project books (watch this ten bridesmaid dresses for a wedding next year.” space!).” Her website/blog sees her blog about Her top tip for taking sewing skills to the next level? recent makes and offers numerous projects, “Once you have mastered something, try something tips and techniques. “I just love to share my new and your skill set will very quickly grow.” passion for all things sewing! I have sewn since a little girl, making doll’s clothes and bedding and customising my own clothes. My very favourite type of sewing is dressmaking and I love it when people ask about what I am TRACEY DENNIS - THE OWL AND SEWING CAT wearing!” z On discovering her passion for the craft aged just eight, Tracey Dennis www.wendygardiner.co.uk knew in an instant sewing was her calling. “It was after watching my mum turn a flat piece of fabric into a lovely sailor’s dress in just one afternoon that was the perfect fit, and then all my friends wanted one. At this point, I thought ‘I need to learn how to do this!’” DEBBIE SHORE Nestled in the East Sussex countryside, her company The Owl and Sewing Cat recently z Debbie Shore guest demonstrates on Create made the move from retail store to online-only outlet. “We’re currently working on expanding and Craft TV on a regular basis. “What I do is our site to include tutorials, blogs and videos, all aimed to aid the keen crafter. We’re here to unique - I offer video and written tutorials for answer any questions they may have!” YouTube and in book form, I have 15 published With its own range of over 100 easy-to-follow patterns and sewing kits, the company books and am the UK’s best-selling craft author.” also offer a large collection of sewing kits and fabrics. “We have a wealth of sewing Her passion for sewing set in at a very early age. “I experience and knowledge, and having taught sewing workshops for years, are keen to have always sewn! My mum was a dressmaker.” She enjoys the continue to share these tips and techniques.” engineering of the craft. “I like figuring out how to construct Tracey proudly showcases her products on Create and Craft TV. “This is where my role projects, from garments to handbags!” on the channel has been amazing. In June, Debbie will launch her own fabric Through it, we can bring our patterns and range. “It’s based on my sketches of my kits to a wide-ranging audience garden.” As for trends, “Anything sewing throughout the UK and overseas, and love related is popular, I don’t tend to look at trends, giving demonstrations to illustrate just but bag-making I know is increasingly how easy and fun sewing is! We have built popular!” up an great following of approximately Facebook - 10,275 followers 6,000 Facebook followers, with whom we Instagram - over 500 followers really enjoy interacting.” You Tube - over 180,000 subscribers Facebook: approx. 6,000 followers http://debbieshore.blogspot.co.uk www.owlandsewingcat.com

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He said: “What is big for us is the whole Japanese themed Make your choice - prints. A number of companies including ourselves have ranges called kimono and eastern images and florals are quite popular. “Another thing that keeps bright and bold or monochrome growing is the nursery category. Rather than the traditional blues and pinks, we are seeing We take a look at the trends in fabric and what’s hot for the summer and the rest of the year neutral greys and black and whites as an emerging theme. “So you see single z Big, bold and floral and a “You are seeing wool type monotone prints – a drawn minimalist monochrome seem projects for a more traditional black elephant on a grey or a to be the design trends that are coat but also things like soft white background, something turning heads at the moment. shell and waterproof fabrics. that looks quite simplistic Fabrics are being People are doing those with and it isn’t over designed.” approached by sewers in an a basic waterproof fabric on Dani has also noticed a effort to challenge themselves the outsdide and then lining change in the kind of fabric that with more difficult makes. them with a patterned fabric is being bought by customers This is a trend that Jacqui that’s a traditional cotton type in the quilting market. Smith, director at Hantex the fabric. Soft shell and printed He said: “There has been a HUNKYDORY 1.4 3 COL_ADS 31/05/2018 10:44 Page 1 UK-based wholesale distributor soft shell is starting to creep move over the past couple of of Fabrics, Haberdashery and through, particularly for kid’s years for quilting companies to other products for the creative ones, because that way you not just sell cotton but fabrics sewing sector, has noticed. don’t have to line them you that are for apparel and knit. Jacqui said: “In terms of have the fleece on the inside “We have seen growth Above:Japanese Kimono substrates, there is a whole and your waterproof on the in jersey fabrics which have by Stuart Hillard for The group of sewers who are outside – very easy to sew.” captured some traditional fashion Craft Cotton Company interested in undertaking Another popular fabric business. Jersey is safer Below: Nursery trend the swimwear and for fabric stores as a product Monochrome Zoo more complicated projects. The big things being made are activewear market. because, especially if it was a jeans, coats and swimwear. Jacqui said: “We’ve got a mid-weight product, you could “Denim is a very popular new range of swimwear coming sell it at any time of the year.” fabric, jeans and dungarees out quite soon, which can used Another trend is licensed are the two big things on that. for activewear as well, that are character prints. Bright colours and soft gelato nylon and elastane. Obviously Dani said: “There seems to pastels are the big two colour it’s a more challenging fabric to be no let up in the growth of trends on the fashion market and, sew and people are moving on demand for character prints that feeds through into fabrics. from just a basic cotton knit.” and that’s caused us to launch So, in terms of, denim, you are Jacqui points to jersey new ranges. We have a range beginning to see some pastel knits, patterned knits, as well as of Harry Potter prints coming and brights coming through.” a wide range of substrates that out and a range of Winnie the Jacqui is also seeing trends are popular amongst sewers. Pooh prints later in the year.” in fabrics that people like to But what are selling Another area that is growing use to make coats, she added: really well are the big, bold, is the demand for organic fabrics, colourful floral prints, She especially for children’s wear. added: “Tropical is still pretty Jacqui said: “It is really big and a lot of deep, richer popular. People are asking prints are going well. The ones for organic fabric and it’s that just keep selling are really quite a strong trend.” rich, floral-type prints. The Dani added: “The UK has market is kind of split into two perhaps been a bit behind the you’ve got the soft pastels curve in requesting organic where and the big, bold, brights.” as in continental Europe these Dani Phillips, Managing fabrics are more common, more Director of Visage Textiles desirable and more requested. Ltd and The Craft Cotton Co, But the UK is catching up has also got his eye on design and you are finding people trends in the fabric marketplace. asking is it organic or not.”

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Discover the Key Sewing Trends For 2018 Lucy Jobber, editor of Sew Magazine, takes a look at what’s hot in the world of stitching

z MINDFUL MAKING stitching becoming increasingly According to Hobbycraft's recent competitive prior to its return trend report, creative hobbies are in 2019. Back with high-profile increasingly seen as a means to industry judges, plus brand- Sashiko is becoming provide balance in our busy lives, new categories, the British with 54 per cent of the nation Sewing Awards offers the said to use craft to relax and feel perfect opportunity to increase more popular as well good. Enter the rise of the 'slow brand awareness and gain stitch' movement: designed to award-winning status prior to induce a state of mindfulness, the new series launch. Reader this new art-form switches focus nominations are currently as personalisation to the process of making, rather open, with bonus categories than the finished product itself. – hand-picked by an expert As a result, Japanese techniques, panel – going to vote in August. Lou Merry, Product Development Manager at Groves, such as shibori and sashiko, have Now highly-regarded as a seen a steep rise in popularity. recognisable sign of quality, looks at new trends in sewing find out how to get involved at z SUSTAINABLE STITCHING sewmag.co.uk/awards/presskit z At Groves, this summer, we have seen great From the recent release of enthusiasm for Sashiko. This is a traditional National Geographic's 'planet z A SOCIAL OCCASION Japanese sewing craft, the word “Sashiko” or plastic' cover to David Based on a survey of 3,000 actually meaning ‘little stabs’. Attenborough's impassioned crafters, ICHF's recent 2018 craft We launched our nine-piece collection back at speeches at the premier of Blue report found that the social side CHSI Stitches in February with great success and Planet II, sustainability is at the of crafting is still experiencing have continued to see this trend grow in forefront of everyone's mind – not a steady upswing. Despite popularity at the trend shows in Cologne and excluding the sewing industry. the move to digital, brick-and- Frankfurt this Spring. Our starter kit ERS.001 has Stitchers will see a move towards mortar stores remain a core been a particular hit, with everything you need to a reduction in plastic packaging, part of the stitching community, give this trend a first go. as well as a rise in eco-friendly reflected in the high percentage Demand for starter sewing kits shows no sign fibres and dyes. This trend also of independent sewing of slowing, as younger consumers are starting encompasses upcycling, with the retailers already signed up to crafting hobbies at an earlier age. Our Trimits British Heart Foundation blazing a participate in the upcoming range of beginners sewing kits in cotton and felt trail with The Big Stitch campaign, Sew Saturday event on October continues to grow and we continue to add about designed to boost interest in 6. It's clear consumers are 20 new designs to our collection of sewing kits transforming pre-loved clothing. in agreement: the ability to each year, with all designs being originated in participate in workshops and house. Our unicorns, flamingos and cactus have z RISE OF THE AWARDS meet like-minded stitchers been particularly successful, with independents The return of The Great British is still very much key to and multiples alike. Sewing Bee will see the world of the sewing experience. Cross stitch continues to be very important and particularly as a vehicle for trend imagery and icons. Our bees, owls and birds have all proved popular, seeing the print trend for novelty animals continue. Slogans and motifs in fashion and accessories have been huge for the last three seasons and demand for our ‘sew on/iron on’ Trimits motifs has grown as a result. Personalisation of all kinds remains current and HANTEX 1.4motifs 5 COL_ADS of letters 01/06/2018 and numbers 15:12 remain Page to 1 be popular staples in the motif range.

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In the Pink! Miss Libby Rose: “Sewing Makes You Smile & Mends the Soul”

Angela Sara West talks to one of the UK’s foremost experts in sewing and crafting, Miss Libby Rose, about her feelgood sewing classes, how expressing your creativity through making is like medicine for mental health, and going on tour with Hobbycraft in her famous Pink Bus!

z Known for her fun and quirky style with a romantic vintage edge, Australian- born Miss Libby Rose has always had an assertive eye for a needle, sewing with confidence since she was a very young child. “Growing up in a house of girls (plus my dad) we were surrounded by fashion, colour and a lot of fun!” Libby’s mother ran a sewing business and worked from home. “She made everything from school uniforms to wedding dresses and had a business making cycling/triathlon outfits, too! I remember helping my mum in the sewing room from as soon as I was able. I was even allowed to use the overlocker, which got me through any fears of that machine!” Having excelled in Design and Media Studies at school, she went on to study fashion, leading to work in the textile industry in Australia and London. She set up her own clothing line, starting out with a market stall in Greenwich Market before moving onto Camden Lock, eventually exhibiting at Fairfield Halls in Croydon and big events at ExCeL, Olympia and Londonize in Madrid. After many years of creating ‘alternative’ fashion, Libby became disheartened with the industry and decided to try her to do themselves. I know that interested in coming to classes for confidence. Her website, used a lot in crafting these days, hand at something which would a lot of my patterns could and there was a nice ‘change’ where you can sign up to receive and it brings joy to my heart that ‘feed her soul’. The accomplished be more complex in nature, in the air, with more and more her colourful weekly makes it is. Also, the stigma behind sewer and seamstress found her but I try to make the world of peeps getting into handmade.” and competitions, now offers talking about mental health ultimate vocation in her work as sewing accessible for all.” She says there were a lot of subscription sewing classes. “My is becoming less and less.” a cutting-edge teacher, and has Libby reveals her kids’ redundancies in the city around Sewing for Confidence course been coaching classes for both sewing courses, workshops the time, causing people to not only teaches all the aspects z WORKING WITH adults and children on a variety of and classes keep her young at look elsewhere and get hooked of sewing for different levels, A WIGGLE! techniques for almost a decade. heart and she’s often invited on something new. “I noticed but also adds a wellbeing and With style icons including Audrey She says she loves the to teach in schools, children’s people searching for something ‘feel-good’ aspect in there, too!” Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe, juxtaposition that teaching centres and community clubs. ‘more’ out of life; more than She adores sharing her Libby’s well-known ‘Wiggle skirt’ sewing now brings. “I hung up The sewing expert, teacher going to work to live and going passion, helping people to was inspired by the blonde my fashion ties to lead a life and designer has played a huge shopping at weekends. This is grow their sewing skills and bombshell. “It’s an iconic piece that is dedicated to teaching part in the traditional craft’s when people started socialising watching their confidence that was born out of a love a fair few years ago now, and revival, inspiring people to take up by going to classes together and soar. “I try to showcase this of design and, in particular, I have to say I’ve never been sewing for its social and health trying new things. It’s wonderful using sewing as a tool for designing for women to build happier!” Her passion and benefits. “I started teaching from to see that still going strong confidence building, mindfulness confidence in themselves. I enthusiasm for educating my workshop at Trinity Buoy now, even more so, in fact!” and general wellbeing.” believe that a well-cut, well- others comes across in spools Wharf in East London over ten With mid-May marking designed piece of clothing worn in her teaching style, which years ago. There weren’t many z CONFIDENT #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek, with style is a real game changer she devotedly demonstrates people offering sewing classes. MINDFUL CRAFTING Libby spent the official week when it comes to confidence in her tailored classes. “I love In 2009, I went on BBC Radio On a mission to spread the word uploading daily blog updates building. This not only applies designing something from London and made a skirt for about the benefits of sewing for in her ‘Sewing Stories’ section. to women, because I know fabrics and creating it in such the DJ, Joanne Good. People wellbeing and mental health, “I add a ‘wellbeing’ layer to my that men feel the same in a a way that people find it easy were really starting to get Libby also advocates the craft craft. The word ‘mindfulness’ is well-cut suit or tailored outfit.

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“The Wiggle skirt is a high- applying her ‘architectural’ mind waisted skirt that goes in at the to her sewing. “I feel that design knee and then gives a little flare is all related. If you look at what out again, giving you that ‘wiggle’ you need to design or redesign while you walk. I’ve worked on with a building, you can apply this skirt as a basis from my the same principles to designing early days in fashion, and its last or redesigning clothing. You still incarnation had reversible centre need to be accurate, and measure back panels with upside-down and plot out measurements zips, so you could give yourself onto paper so you can design, some extra walking room if you then that 2D drawing becomes needed to run for the bus!” a tangible 3D object!” z VINTAGE EDGE z GARDEN GATHERINGS – Loved for her vintage influence FLOWER-FILLED MAKES romanticising a bygone era, Libby loves incorporating Libby is full to the trim with old- homegrown flowers such fashioned ideas, frequently lined as roses and lavender in her with a modern twist. “So many creations, too. “I love gardening! makes have had their time in If I wasn’t doing what I do I the spotlight at certain periods would do something to do in my life. I love my Wiggle skirt with gardening and cooking. design and the whole range I would love to have my own that came out at the time with lavender farm and encourage it; Fit’n’flair waistcoat, braces people to use it for crafts and high-waisted trousers and for its wonderful healing with corset-laced back...” properties. I would also love When it comes to trends, to be able inspire people in the “I hung up my fashion ties to lead a life that is what’s currently on her cutting kitchen and into vegetarianism, mat? “I’m into trousers and to which I am a rather recent dedicated to teaching a fair few years ago now, dungarees this summer and convert! For me, 2018 is and I have to say I’ve never been happier!” am looking at culotte styles, big the year I turned vegetarian, pockets and trouser lengths amongst other things!” and waistline styles. I always hangs from the roof and is used She recently became is on offer there. I have been a have a ‘vintage edge’ to my z PAINTING THE TOWN… in stuffing, too.” With a love for Hobbycraft’s ‘Sewing Londoner for 20 years, and didn’t designs, so watch this space for PINK! ON BOARD WITH upcycling vintage furniture, Libby Ambassador’, a perfect really appreciate all that I had on some lovely new designs and HOBBYCRAFT restored a beautiful cupboard, partnership which came about my doorstep, so now, whenever discussion on these topics, too!” Libby’s special sewing space is which has pride of place inside when she was looking for I am in London, I like to get my What else has this somewhere unique… her Pink her Pink Bus. Stripping it back someone to collaborate with on inspiration from wandering sensational sewer been busy Sewing Bus! “I love it dearly. It’s and painting it shabby-chic the Pink Sewing Bus. “I wanted around the V&A, then Carnaby making lately? “EVERYTHING!! filled with magic and intrigue. pink, it’s now adorned with new to find a way to get my message Street and, of course, Liberty.” Actually, I’m just re-working Once on board the Pink Sewing spotty door knobs. “I also have out to more people… to be mobile Through her rewarding some cute aprons that are for Bus, you can’t help but be a sewing space in my home so I could attend events, visit new role, she has ‘seamingly’ been some ‘Parent & Child - Let’s inspired as it is filled with sewing in the New Forest, for which places, and generally spread the binding a new patchwork of Sew Together’ workshops paraphernalia, vintage music I upcycled my pink sewing message that ‘sewing makes friends. “I have thoroughly over the summer.” playing and a slight wafting of table. Overlooking forest all you smile’. I had a few meetings enjoyed working with Hobbycraft Her favourite materials to freshly-dried lavender, which around, it’s lovely and serene.” with Hobbycraft and even led a and have been building some work with? “I love sewing with sewing group with some of the wonderful friendships, too, which jersey. Using the walking foot leading ladies at Hobbycraft HQ is what crafting is all about!” on a domestic machine is a at the time. They loved it and the godsend. I just love the way Pink Sewing Bus was born!” z MENDING THE SOUL… jersey flows and how you can Her top tips for beginners? “Give easily pop something together z PRETTY IN PINK – it a go! I really love working with without all the fuss of darts REVVING UP FOR ON-THE- nervous beginners who try! I and fit. It drapes beautifully and ROAD SEWING CLASSES endeavour to make my projects can hide a multitude of sins!” Hobbycraft’s sewing expert as accessible as possible, plus already has a lot of yardage under a lot of my beginner’s projects z ARCHITECTURAL SEWING her belt. Last year, Libby’s Pink are lined, so if anything does go With a passion for architecture Bus Project saw her travel to over slightly awry with stitching, it’s and architectural interior 60 Hobbycraft stores nationwide all covered up in the lining!” design, Libby also has a thing to provide sewing workshops The successful seamstress for concrete and steel, and to the local communities, and is a huge advocate of sewing/ mixing modern with traditional 2018 sees her darting around the haberdashery tool, Heat N architecture. “I was lucky enough country again on her famous pink Bond, and keeps a quirky, but to help the architectural team wheels. “I’ll be in Reading, Woking, handy, tool in her sewing tool on the refurbishment of the Southampton, Bournemouth, kit at all times…. chopsticks! Royal Festival Hall!” She enjoys Brighton and Crawley over the Winding up her bobbin, next few months. I certainly make she reveals the main message people smile and wave on the she’d like to get across about motorways when I’m travelling her favourite craft. “Sewing around for my wonderful work!” is good for you. I really do Libby even throws creative believe that ‘sewing mends hen parties, including Fancy the soul’… it’s such a beautiful Pants knicker-making, Garters phrase and it really is true!” and Decorations, Tutus and Petticoats and Fabric Hats & Fascinators workshops FACTBOX for blooming brides-to-be The Pink Sewing Bus classes and their buddy hens! are 90 minutes long, with Libby teaching children in the z TICKLED PINK mornings, both beginners WITH INSPIRATION and intermediates, then adult Working with the UK’s largest beginners and intermediates arts and crafts retailer, she says in the afternoon. she doesn’t need to look far for For further information, visit: inspiration. “As I work so closely www.misslibbyrose.com with Hobbycraft, I’m always in and www.hobbycraft.co.uk/ the stores, so I get inspired by the libbyrose rows and rows of crafting that

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wonderful it would be to run an z HOW DO YOU COME UP upholstery school - just like the WITH YOUR DESIGNS? one I trained at all those years WHAT GIVES YOU ago. Of course, you have to INSPIRATION? Putting your craft know your craft inside out and For my current lampshades, I do many years of bench time am inspired by the very nature before you can start passing on of the handmade technique, so these skills, but that dream has the stitches and structure are always been there. When the at the fore of the design, not opportunity arose about eight hidden behind frills and braid. I into the shade years ago to run a little evening am making them for myself - so class locally, I took it. Happily no commercial pressure - but Upholsterer Joanna Heptinstall, and founder of the I loved teaching. It was hugely that gives me the freedom to rewarding, great fun and very play. I strongly believe that Traditional Upholstery School, tells us about her life sociable. From there I went you need to give yourself on to teach at Denman, the freedom from commercial and love of making and restoring lampshades WI craft school in Oxfordshire, pressures in order to come which gave me great confidence up with something innovative in my teaching abilities. and creatively courageous. z WHEN DID YOU Traditional Upholstery Workshop Bath and spotted a tatty 1950s The shades for my book LEARN TO SEW? in Wales. I fell in love as soon as I lampshade frame in a shop z HOW DID THIS LEAD were completely different. They Right at the very start! All the walked into that shed. It was the window. I bought it, took it home TO THE SETTING UP were chosen to explain core females in my family were earthy smell of hessian and balls and spent several evenings - OF THE TRADITIONAL techniques, each one building sewers, some professional of twine, the fact that upholstery and several attempts - trying to UPHOLSTERY SCHOOL? on the one before. Aestheticaly dressmakers, wedding dress is so traditional and practical and recover it. Back then, there were I knew I was ready when some I aimed to please as many makers, glover makers… creative all at the same time. I were no books on lampshade of my students asked me to people as I could and offer so sewing was part of our knew at once that I wanted to do making, no-one was running teach them a diploma - enough ideas which readers could make everyday language. It was so it and felt so relaxed and happy. any courses and there were few core skills for them to work their own with their choices deep into my family’s culture It was an epiphany! I stayed the people who could remember as upholsterers too. So, I had of fabrics and trimmings. to sew - and with professional whole week, loved every minute how to do it. But I had memories some students (well, three!), skill - that I just believed I could of it, was good at it - then came of my aunt making silk shades and all I needed was premises. z WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO do it too. As a toddler, my home and enrolled on what for her wall lights when I was The rest I knew would be WRITE A BOOK AND HOW mother would give me a pair was to be one of the last City little, so I knew it was possible. sorted as I went along. DID YOU SET ABOUT IT – of small sharp thread snipping & Guilds upholstery courses. There were great similarities THE PROCESS INVOLVED? scissors and old magazines with stretching fabric over an z WHAT DIFFICULTIES At the time there wasn’t a good to clip up. I’ve never had a z WHAT LED YOU TO iron-framed chair, so as an DID YOU FACE IN modern book on lampshade problem cutting straight lines! MAKING AND RESTORING upholsterer I was well-armed SETTING IT UP? making, so I decided to do LAMPSHADES? with the skills. It took a few Finding premises was the one. I contacted Search Press z DID YOU ENJOY IT AS Lampshade making is a very goes but I worked it out. After trickiest. At the start you have no who said yes and then off I A HOBBY OR DID YOU specialist corner of upholstery, that I started collecting old money, and few customers, but went. My many years working SEE IT AS PATH TO requiring many of the same skills. lampshade making books, some you have to find large premises on craft magazines stood FUTURE EMPLOYMENT? I absolutely love lampshade written as early as the 1920s. with plenty of natural light. I’m me in good stead, so I knew At school I remember having making. It allows me to exercise Whereas with upholstery sure this presents the greatest what was required from me. careers advice, aged about my upholstery skills and sewing I was usually working to a problem to most start-up creative 14 or 15. I expressed a wish know-how to a high standard customer’s brief, making businesses. In my experience z WHAT CHANGES to find a career that included of finesse. Lampshades are and restoring lampshades rental workspaces are very often HAVE YOU SEEN IN THE my love of textiles and sewing smaller and more portable then became my creative outlet. hugely over-priced and targeted INDUSTRY OVER THE and was firmly told there were chairs - very important when at high-tech businesses which LAST FEW YEARS? no real jobs with sewing and juggling shed-life with family life. z DID YOU THINK YOU need computers and phones, Since I trained 20 years ago, I wouldn’t be able to earn a It all started when I walked COULD THEN MAKE THIS not hammers and workbenches. upholstery has become a living. Of course I then went passed a shop window in A LARGE PART OF YOUR I was very lucky to find my female craft. Whereas it used on to spend years training CAREER AND HOW? top-floor warehouse space in a to be mainly men in sheds, and working in publishing I knew from the start that there village near me. I can afford it more than 90 per cent of and magazine journalism was a huge market for traditional because it’s a little bit leaky when newly-trained upholsterers are - which was quite fun - but handmade lampshades because it rains, however daylight floods now women, many coming came back to fabrics in I was never ever short of in and it has so much personality into the trade as their second the end and, am pleased requests to make them. However, no-one ever complains. That career, so they are bringing a to say, am earning a living I was already established as said, we do wear a lot of vests lot of business confidence and too. How wrong were they! an upholsterer, and working on and hats in the winter months. creativity with them. It’s making the launch of my upholstery upholstery a very vibrant craft. z WHERE DID YOU school, so I deliberately chose z WHAT TIPS WOULD TRAIN TO BE AN to make lampshade making YOU HAVE FOR ANYONE z WHAT TRENDS DO UPHOLSTERER AND my creative outlet rather than THINKING OF LAUNCHING YOU SEE COMING HOW MUCH DID something commercial. I’m THEIR OWN BUSINESS? UP THIS YEAR? YOU ENJOY IT? pleased I did because I’m having Plan and sort as much as you A continuation of rule-breaking I discovered upholstery a lot of fun breaking the rules! can first. Sort out your website, and experimenting with fabric almost by accident. I was a organise your premises, get your mixes, paired down trimmings freelance journalist in my mid z WHY DID YOU START insurance sorted - everything. and exposed stitches. Steam 20s and was sent by Homes TEACHING UPHOLSTERY? Because once you get started punk is in their somewhere, & Gardens to write a piece Right from the very beginning, actually doing your job, you’ll so I am expecting to see more about upholstery courses at the I’ve always thought how have little time for these things. exposed frames and visible tacks.

www.craftbusiness.com 30 INTERVIEW

Hours As... 24 Lisa Davis-Lindholm Lisa Davis-Lindholm, Channel Manager (mass market) for Pentel, tells us about her day

z What time do you wake z What time do you take stresses of the day. I will then up and what does your pre- lunch, and what do you do settle in for the evening with work routine look like? on your lunch break? What some dinner whilst reading On an office day, I am up at do you typically eat? the latest book on my iPad 4.40am as I have a 125-mile drive I take lunch between 1 and before catching up on recorded from Staffordshire to Swindon. 2pm. I generally try to get out programs from my Sky planner. My day always starts with a of the office to either run a few coffee and some breakfast before errands or to take a walk if the z Finally, what time do getting into the car to begin the sun is shining. As I don’t eat you typically go to bed drive. I will also have fed our two meat, my lunch will generally on a work night? rescue dogs as their day also consist of a salad, homemade I have never been a night owl begins at the same time as mine! soup or pasta salad. There will and certainly function better also be a side helping of fruit. in the morning so you will z You get into work – what always find me heading to bed does a typical morning z How does a typical between 10 and 10.30pm. look like for you? afternoon take shape? Again, the first priority is to get Like the morning, it will vary z A BIT ABOUT YOU a coffee as I will generally get dependent on what season How did you come to work “I will continue to work with into the office around 8.30am my customers are currently in your current position? after a three-hour drive. I will reviewing. It can be a mixture of Unfortunately, the previous my buyers to grow the Pentel then spend the morning working range proposals, sales analysis or company I worked for went presence within store and to on customer range proposals general account management. into administration in 2014 and doing any meeting prep for and I was forced to look for a ensure that the sales the coming week. Most of my z What time do you leave? And new role. I applied for a few customers work on different what kinds of things do you different jobs and the one at continue to grow.” range calendars so I always like to get up in the evening? Pentel was the one that appealed need to be prepared to swap I will leave the office at 5 and to me most. I’ve always said z What are the best selections are more challenging WOW EMBOSSING 1.8 3 COL_ADS 31/05/2018and 10:47 change Page from 1 one season or travel the short journey to my that I couldn’t sell a product parts of your job? and it can be frustrating when year to another. If I’m meeting hotel. I stay in a lovely hotel that I didn’t believe in or like I love my team at Pentel! They you know you have a good customers at their offices close to the office which backs and I certainly feel passionate certainly make the day easier product but there just isn’t my day looks totally different, onto parkland. I will then put on about the great mix of Pentel and fun. However, it is also space within store for it. although I’ll invariably be on the my running shoes and do an products. We have a brand the relationships I have with road nice and early to avoid the hour or so of running to clear that’s trusted by end-users and my customers. I love taking a z What does 2018 hold for you? worst of the commuter traffic. my head and relax me from the throughout the industry, so I feel range, reviewing what is or isn’t 2018 will be another busy very enthusiastic representing working and then seeing these year of range reviews with my Pentel. Just as important is the changes reflected in store and customers both new and old. fact that I really enjoy working hopefully performing well. I will continue to work with with my colleagues in the my buyers to grow the Pentel office and with my customers. I z What are the most challenging presence within store and to genuinely love coming to work! parts of your job? ensure that the sales continue The industry has changed over to grow. On a personal note, z What advice would you have the last few years and space I have a couple of holidays for someone looking to get within store is being reduced, booked in the diary and will be into your particular industry? along with pressure to reduce exploring Thailand and Vietnam I don’t think you need to have cost prices. This means that towards the end of the year. experience within the industry but it does help to know the retail sector and have interchangeable skills. However, I do feel you need to be passionate about writing instruments and art materials. The industry is continually changing and we need people to be proactively growing it.

www.craftbusiness.com TECHNOLOGY 31

Ellison Europe Richard Birse appointed to launch new new CEO of Ellison Educational Equipment Inc.

Sizzix App z Ellison Educational lead the company into its new Equipment, Inc, parent phase of focused, global growth. company of craft brand “For over 27 years, I’ve Fiona Lloyd, Director of Sizzix and education brand had the greatest opportunity Ellison Education, has working for the company that Marketing for Ellison Europe announced Richard Birse my grandmother started, having as its new Chief Executive held numerous positions from Ltd and the brand Sizzix, Officer, and the elevation customer service to sales to of current Chief Executive my current role of CEO,” said reveals the company’s latest Officer Kristin Highberg Kristin Highberg, outgoing CEO to the Company’s Global of Ellison. “During my tenure development, the Sizzix App Board of Directors. as CEO of the company, I’ve Founded by LaDorna worked alongside Richard for and Robert Eichenberg in close to 11 years to successfully 1977, Ellison Educational develop global infrastructure z As a brand, we are constantly Equipment has grown into and growth opportunities. As developing alongside the digital a vertically integrated global we enter the next phase of age. Our audiences are heavily business. The business has Ellison’s global growth, it was influenced by the content they developed multiple global clear to me and my family that our global platform. We have see online and use this medium brands and supply chain Richard was the obvious choice exceptionally talented teams as a source of inspiration. networks that uniquely to take the CEO leadership role across three continents This modern means of position its operations to and allow me to continue to at Ellison/Sizzix who are connectivity has inspired us be a leading omni-channel focus on supporting strategy all committed to evolving to create an app to provide provider across all continents. with him at the board level.” our business, continuing Sizzix makers with an online After a thorough review, Richard Birse said: “I know to innovate our product community where they can share Ellison’s current Managing that I speak for everyone at in new and diverse ways new ideas and source endless Director for Europe and Ellison in thanking Kristin and developing a global inspiration at home or on the Global Markets, Richard Birse for her leadership during her supply chain infrastructure go. Our app has been designed (pictured), was clearly identified time within the company. that supports our to encourage creativity and will as the natural successor to “I am eager to assume localised trading partner’s provide the Sizzix community be the company’s next CEO this new role and lead such future global growth with an easy accessible platform for his proven skillset, market a passionate and focused opportunities in both B2B in which they can source and knowledge and experience to company in further developing and B2C channels.” share creative content. Members of the Sizzix app will be able to create their own profile, showcasing their favourite “Our app has been designed to encourage making techniques and styles, to easily identify their nearest interact with other Sizzix users retailer from which they can creativity and will provide the Sizzix and share their latest projects purchase their favourite and ideas with one another. Our Sizzix items. It’s an exciting community with an easy accessible platform app will be a place for makers to prospect for us to provide an tell their story uniquely and share application that supports all in which they can source and share creative their making journey with other of our audiences, assisting in Sizzix community members. the education of our products content.” Our app has been designed and sharing our catalogue’s to support our trade customers full potential. We’ve created too. The exciting new platform a platform where users can achievements based on their can be utilised to educate showcase their making activities and interactions consumers on the Sizzix skills, find new project ideas within our app is most definitely product range and showcases and interact with creatives my favourite feature. This the endless possibilities of our from across the globe. motivating aspect provides our machines, die designs, tools audience with multiple making and complimentary products. z UNLOCKING goals, helping them achieve It also includes a full stockist ACHIEVEMENTS new skills and experience list, built using geolocation The ability for our creative new making activities. technology, allowing consumers community to unlock It will encourage interactions within the platform and allows makers to share their achievements through social media, creating further engagement outside of the app community and supporting the making movement across multiple global channels.

z BARCODE SCANNER Another exciting feature that our makers will love is the ability to get inspiration at the touch I can’t wait to see the inspirational platform we are of a button! Simply scanning a creativity from the Sizzix providing for both our consumers product barcode through our community within our app and trade customers alike. app will instantly display project and to see project designs The Sizzix App will be ideas, tutorials and more. I’m and inspiration come together available in July, and will be excited to see how this omni- from across the globe. It’s an free to download from the channel support enhances our exciting time for the creative Apple App Store and Google consumer’s overall experience. industry and I am proud of the Play Store for Android.

www.craftbusiness.com 32 THE BIG INTERVIEW Celebrity Milliner Louis Mariette Talks Top Hats & Headpieces! Angela Sara West chats with celebrity milliner and designer extraordinaire, Louis Mariette, about breaking fashion boundaries, splurging on Swarovski, and what’s hot in hats and headpieces for the wedding and racing season

z Famed for his fabulous bespoke creations, Louis is a his exotic Southern African fascinators, bespoke hats firm favourite with the fashion childhood has hugely influenced and sensational bejewelled press, offering a ready-to-wear his work. With nature as his headpieces, he’s known and bridal collection of hair playground, Louis enjoyed for creating the most accessories and hats that exploring the flora and fauna, expensive hat ever made and capture his playful and creative, collecting semi-precious stones, designs for famous faces, yet elegant, spirit, and which seedpods, cactus flowers and including Joan Collins, Kate are simply out-of-this-world. beads and trimmings from local Moss and Lady Gaga. His alluring bejewelled tribes. The delightful palette of As the official milliner of collection comprises a colours and textures presented countless quintessentially English showstopping array of handmade by Africa’s wildlife is brought to events, he’s not only adorned statement pieces decked with life through the exotic elegance celebrities and supermodels exquisite crystals inspired by of his incredible designs. with his decadent designs for nature, incorporating beautiful “My childhood in Africa opulent occasions on the social floral and wildlife designs, while consisted of a myriad of dazzling calendar, but also co-hosted his ready-to-wear iconic hats insects, birdlife, exotic flora the BBC’s coverage of 300 and headpieces exude the and fauna. Unbeknown to me, Credit: Cameron years of Royal Ascot. He’s lent glamorous beauty of the past, this was the catalyst of an McNee Photography his creative credentials and uniquely designed to inspire overactive mind and plays a flamboyant fashion wisdom to a woman’s inner elegance. pivotal role in my designs today. Britain’s Next Top Model, too, Whether for a wedding, a I love the freedom to express!” working with Manish Arora, Louis has many style icons. in his role as a judge on Living high-society party, or simply Louis’ love of travel takes Qasimi and Nichole de Carle. “What draws my passion are TV’s hit model making show. an everyday accessory, Louis’ him all over the world, where Louis is globally-renowned ladies who have made the Based at his atelier in extraordinary haute couture he sources hand-embroidered for creating the world’s most most of their public status by Hertfordshire, the iconic milliner creations cause an instant fabrics, antique embellishments, expensive hat. Commissioned helping, or raising awareness of, has been breaking boundaries sense of excitement. porcupine quills, feathers, hand- by Harrods, the stunning £1.5m issues. Queen Rania of Jordan… with his fabulous designs for over Style, elegance, glamour… dipped painted resin flowers Chapeau d’Amour is made from Angelina Jolie… Lily Cole… a decade. The self-taught milliner Welcome to the wonderful and semi-precious stones. He rare platinum and studded with “There are many ladies is much in demand by brides, world of Louis Mariette! draws inspiration from unique diamonds. “It was made out of I would adore to design for. celebrities and leading brands, destinations. “I have been love, an aspiration to challenge I love the positive energy of including Air Partner Learjets, z EXOTIC INSPIRATION exceptionally privileged as I have myself and creative expression. It Kylie Minogue, the talented the Platinum Guild, Swarovski, Louis’ passion for fashion and been to some unusual locations. got attention, so I guess it was an actress Kristin Scott Thomas, Boucheron, Links and Rolls Royce. design began at an early age. I was once in the remote important role for my millinery.” the statuesque Nicole Kidman, Specialising in “magical, Born in Malawi, he grew up in Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan. How does it feel to have Thandie Newton and the fantastical and exuberant” Botswana and Swaziland, and I was invited to some rare become a go-to brand? “I never avant-garde Tilda Swinton.” festivals very rarely witnessed view myself in such a way. When His favourite creation? by Westerners. The headwear you have a business, it is like a “Probably the Princess Neptune and costumes were stunning, cherished tree you want to see hat encrusted with scallop with unusual techniques used, grow, and with this came a few shells. This was submerged such as braiding wool into unexpected opportunities and underwater and photographed handwoven fabrics. It was very fantastic life experiences. This by Zena Holloway at the giant fascinating and intriguing.” included being invited to No. 10 water tank at Pinewood Studios Downing Street, when the Blairs where a Bond scene was filmed!” z FROM PARTY PLANNER TO and Camerons were in office.” CELEBRITY HAT DESIGNER With a discerning eye for z FROM ROYAL RACES Louis’ illustrious career kicked detail which is second-to-none, TO THE ROYAL off in hotel management before Louis’ designs are the epitome WEDDING… CELEBRITY he began a party and wedding of elegance and perfection. HATS & HEADPIECES planning business. His first show How does it feel to have worked In-demand milliner Louis is a as a designer, commissioned alongside some of the world’s supermodel’s dream. He has by renowned stylist Michael most prestigious names? “If designed for numerous famous Dye, was in Milan. The rest, your brands can complement fashion faces, creating bespoke as they say, is hat history… each other then it makes masterpieces for Kate Moss, Louis’ talent, charisma and sense to collaborate. I once Jerry Hall and Jodie Kidd. infectious joie de vivre has since stitched a Boucheron jewellery “Jodie was so easy-going. I did captured the imaginations of top collection into a headpiece. I chuckle to myself as throughout stylists and creative directors, was assigned an elegant room the shoot she was dripping with his designs gracing the to work in, complete with a in hundreds of thousands of pages of fashion shoots and bodyguard. I never was too couture dresses, jewellery and adorning the windows of Harrods sure if it was to keep intruders accessories. However, the and Swarovski. His exceptional out or to keep me in!!!” highlight of her day was when pieces have been exhibited at His favourite fashion a delivery arrived consisting of The New York Public Library, shows and designers? “The a new pair of her polo boots. decorated the models on former first time I saw an Arkadius Once a horse lover, forever one!” London Mayor Ken Livingstone’s show with all the drama was Talking of horses for courses, official visit to India, and made wonderful, and I love the refined as the official milliner for The appearances at countless high- elegance and calmness of Investec Epsom Derby in 2011, society events, while designer the Designer Wedding Show Louis fashioned a beautiful hat Credit: Moheib collaborations have seen him in Battersea in London.” for British supermodel, Erin

www.craftbusiness.com THE BIG INTERVIEW 33

O’Conner, who was the face of frosted crystals are the elegant the archetypal English racing understated way to look Louis Mariette graceful walking down the aisle. casts his eye event. His custom-made creation over some new for the occasion was based on Either with or without a veil, creations the lilac-breasted roller bird, one and the headpiece perfectly of his favourites in Botswana. coiffured with a hair design, Now busy creating hats for it is a memorable piece to the wedding and equestrian own. My choice of millinery season, which high-society are cocktail hats with unique events is he most looking forward decorative embellishments. to? “Year after year, I design for The main reason being that the Royal Enclosure at Royal ladies spend a lot of time, Ascot – more details soon! passion and money on their hair. Cartier is always a lovely event, Therefore, the synergy of hat relaxed and sophisticated and and hair is a ‘bon marriage’.” unpretentious. I have never done What’s hot in hats and Henley… time to get a boater headpieces? “Headbands are the on head and Pimm’s in hand!” rage. Especially when made with Fresh off TV screens, where semi-precious stones within he commented on the Royal intricate jewellery creations. wedding for NBC’s Megyn Kelly They are popular because you Today programme, Louis was can accessorise them with both bursting at the seams with couture outfits and casualwear excitement during THE event for both day and eveningwear. of the year. “The Royal wedding Hats don’t follow trends as was millinery eye candy!!! I am a much as main fashion. Milliners great believer of the Royals and tend to create from a mood and what they do for charities and the feeling that they are expressing “My childhood in Africa consisted of a rich history that we have in this at the moment. Each creation country. Of course, the millinery is unique… I love that aspect.” myriad of dazzling insects, birdlife, exotic industry they support is fantastic.” “Meghan was the luckiest z SPARKLING flora and fauna. Unbeknown to me, this was lady in the world as Her Majesty SWAROVSKI & ELEGANT generously opened her private EMBELLISHMENTS the catalyst of an overactive mind and plays collection of tiara jewellery to The highly-acclaimed hat-maker a pivotal role in my designs today. I love the adorn her for the big day, lending relishes pushing the boundaries her Queen Mary’s diamond of his craft, describing his freedom to express!” bandeau tiara. Imagine the history style as “Romantic, elegant, every piece has… It was a great escapist and avant-garde.” day for Britain and America and, Unusual embellishments are his quality-control check, stress the nervous disorder known as meeting the huge talent out there of course, a special day the world favourite materials to work with. testing and the crystals are ‘mad hatter disease’, hence the from designers, photographers, could watch. I wish them both “Semi-precious stones, objects meticulously polished.” expression ‘Mad as a Hatter’!!!” makeup artists, hair stylists… you well - they are the perfect match!” that I have personally sourced name it. As well as being flown to around the world… they are my z MAD AS A HATTER!! z BEHIND THE “SEAMS” Argentina, one of my highlights z OFF TO THE RACES! love and exploring for them is Louis has many top hat tales AT NEXT TOP MODEL was when they recreated the WEAVING THE WHIMSICAL such a thrill. I once found giant to tell. “The topper… the black This impressive hat-maker to the underwater shoot. I was both MARIETTE MAGIC… snail shells from a palm forest silk beaver was made using stars has featured in numerous excited but terribly nervous Currently working his marvellous on Bird Island that I used on a Mercury Nitrate in the felting high-end publications, including watching each girl submerge Mariette magic on his amazing headpiece that Alec Wek wore.” process. It was so toxic that Vogue, Vanity Fair and Tatler and, into the water, being given only annual Ascot hat, what does His ubiquitous use of workers inhaled the fumes, which to top it all off, has also starred one shot to get it right. You need Louis think the Queen will wear Swarovski crystals adds caused mercurial neurasthenia, as a judge on Living TV’s Britain’s nerves of steel, and trust me, it at this year’s racing event? “Her high-spirited sparkle to Next Top Model, alongside is so much harder than it looks!” Majesty favours hats with a high his showstopping pieces. model-turned-TV presenter, Louis also featured on crown and small brim, which are “Swarovski crystals are objects Lisa Snowdon, and former Channel 5 TV’s How The Other very much appreciated by press of infinite beauty and clarity, supermodel, Huggy Ragnersson. Half Live, where Eamonn Holmes photographers as you can see delivering a kaleidoscope “Being a judge on Britain’s and Ruth Langsford explored her wonderful features. Much of colours that bring my Next Top Model was so exciting the lifestyles of the super-rich time goes into customising and Louis Mariette bejewelled and fun! I always tried to motivate and showcased Louis’ much- coordinating the colour palette headpieces to life. The light the girls to stay on top of their loved Chapeau d’Amour. “Firstly, of the hat and outfit. It’s always reflects and illuminates dream and reach their goals by being elevated high up in the refreshing to see her and such these intricately-cut crystals, staying positive, no matter what! Shard in the Shangri-La hotel a highlight as she always gets making them perfect for the It was an emotional rollercoaster Penthouse is a treat. Being her ensemble spot-on perfect!!!” most cutting-edge catwalk.” of fabulousness, outrageousness, trapped in a penthouse with Louis explains how sinamay gorgeousness, tantrums, divas, Ruth Holmes is like having your is ideal for hat making and is z MAGICAL MARIETTE catfights and amazing fashion. feet tickled! She is outrageously used to block most of the hats at JEWELLERY If I could bottle all this up, I fun and a true professional.” the races. “Sinamay is a natural Along with spectacular would have a hit perfume! It was fibre that’s great for blocking headwear, Louis designs a magical experience that I z BEST ACCESSORIES several layers of colours to unique jewellery. “I begin cherish and I am grateful AWARD create effects. Lightweight and the process myself to have had such an With several exciting projects in easy to work with, Sinamay is an by hand drawing a amazing opportunity.” the pipeline, what has been the extraordinary product originating very technical design. He says the show highlight of this inspiring milliner’s from the Philippines. It comes As the creation is was a journey of learning amazing career so far? “Being from the Abaca plant, a species produced by my team, about the magnificent awarded “Best Accessories” of Banana tree and is used they have to know energy and positive by the Tanzanite Foundation. for many other products such each crystal style, enthusiasm the girls had They flew all the winners in the as bags and banknotes, and colour shade and for making a career for selected categories to New because it’s resistant to seawater, colour of plating. The themselves. “It was full York to an awards ceremony at it’s used for fishermen’s nets, too. pieces are made and of joy, laughter and tears the incredible New York Public I give the final okay every day, as you saw Library. It was a spectacular z LOUIS’ TIPS FOR A on design before it girls getting closer to their unveiling, consisting of TOP HEADPIECE! goes to plating. The dreams. What I wasn’t thousands of violet candles With the wedding season in full only opportunity to expecting was the emotion (matching the Tanzanite stone) swing, what should crafters be adjust, it is a crucial I would feel when the festooned down the entrance looking at creating for brides-to- stage as the items evictions arrived. I guess steps and tribal dancers with be and their guests headpiece are in their “raw” state they all knew the deal, but copious amounts of bubbly and hat-wise on THEIR big day? before crystals and it still came as a blow.” and frivolities…. a joyous New “When it comes to brides, plating are applied. “What also gave me York evening experience.” my bejewelled headpieces in After this, there is a my creative adrenaline was Hats off to him!

www.craftbusiness.com 34 NEWS

The 2018 London Stationery Selecting the best Show attracts the crowds

Good Design Winner Back Pocket with Judge Jo Irons

The Judging panel

z This year’s Stationery Awards judges spent the first morning of the London Stationery Show reviewing some 400 entries covering 11 product categories, plus a new category for ’Good Design’ and their own ‘Judges’ Choice’. Judging panel chair, Henri Davis, independent retail consultant Thousands flock to the Business Design Centre and chair of the Giftware Association, said: “The judges commented that seeing the products in a judging environment z The London Stationery Show and licensing agents and high customers – or indeed the helped them identify products and suppliers to go and talk to that was a resounding success. street fashion and accessory customers they’d like to have – they wouldn’t normally visit – surely having this opportunity to be The event, which ran at retailers including Asos, is of real commercial benefit. It seen by these buyers and to be showcased at the front of the show the Business Design Centre Next, Monsoon Accessorize, allows retailers and suppliers is enough of a reason to enter next year.” on April 24-25, hit its target of Missguided and Amara Living. to focus on what they need to The judging panel were: Jo Irons of Bureau Direct, Sidonie 2,000 visitors, attracting buyers Show highlights this year maximise future sales. This Warren, founder at Papersmiths, Simon and Amanda Walker of Cult from across its key sectors. included the seventh Stationery is an area we’ll definitely be Pens and Lucy Wilson of Waterstones. Hazel Fieldwick, event Awards with the judging panel developing further next year.” manager, said: “We’re delighted picking out product from two of Another first for this year z FILING: Joint Winners: Tied Commended: Legami Star Diary that the show continues to go the show’s LaunchPad winners was the launch of a new Student by the Flatty Wallet and Compack – from Lime Stationery & Art; from strength to strength. and regular exhibitors Lime Stationery Award scheme. (document holder) – both from Palm Springs Desk Pad – from “We want our event to be Stationery & Art and Abrams The show has partnered with JPT Europe Ohh Deer; Birthday Calendar – the place to find writing and & Chronicle each collecting The Paper Library, which runs Commended: Mini Moderns from Laura Stoddart Ltd; It’s a paper products – whatever your multiple awards. A new ‘Good a paper resource service for document wallet – from Portico Sloth’s Life organiser – from West starting point of interest may Design’ Award was introduced colleges and design students Designs Design Products Ltd be, so it’s great to see such a this year, won by Back Pocket across the UK, to help foster z SOCIAL STATIONERY: z WRITING INSTRUMENTS mix of visitors attending.” for their range of notebooks the links between design Winner: Green in Bloom (OVER £25): Winner: LAMY The eighth London Stationery made from the new range of students and the stationery Notecards – from Laura Stoddart aion – from LAMY Show increased in size by just GF Smith Extract paper. industry. Design managers from Ltd Commended: Caran D’Ache 849 over nine per cent with 155 The new design award Paperchase, Portico Design and Commended: Decoupage Card Kit Nespresso Ballpoint Pen – from exhibitors (and 158 stands), was introduced to recognise Caroline Gardner, who are each Freshly Cut Flowers – from West Stone Marketing Ltd; of which 79 were either new the show’s efforts in attracting supporting the new competition Design Products Ltd; Fawn Boxed Construction Spectrum – from to the show, didn’t exhibit last more design and designer-led and offering a student placement notecards – from Portico Designs Lime Stationery & Art year, or were one of the show’s stationery brands to exhibit. To as a competition prize, attended z EVERYDAY WRITING: z NOTEBOOKS: Winner: 12 LaunchPad winners. In support this initiative the show the show and took part in a Q&A Winner: Construction Liliput pen Troika Lilipad and Liliput – from addition, over 300 brands and also introduced ‘Trend Tours’ about their jobs and roles within by Troika - from Lime Stationery & Lime Stationery & Art licenses were also represented. and a Stationery Trends Hub their respective companies. Art Commended: Back Pocket This year’s show attracted area. Curated and designed They were questioned closely Commended: The Clarity Fountain Notebooks – from Back Pocket all the national key stationers by trend forecasters Scarlet by students visiting from design Pen – from Manuscript Pens; The Notebooks; The Celestial Journal and a strong line-up of indies. Opus, both these new features courses as far away as Dundee. Faber-Castell Grip Fountain Pen – from Peter Pauper Press; In addition, buyers from garden proved very popular, with several This year’s show coincided 2010 - from Stone Marketing Casanova-Fenice- Vivaldi – centres, bookshops, gift and companies booking private once again with National z NOVELTY: Winner: Calendar Gruppo Padovana srl greeting stores, print and copy tours with Scarlet Opus for Stationery Week, which this Stickers – from Carpe Diem z DESK ACCESSORIES: shops, department store groups, their own marketing teams. year saw key suppliers Nuco, Commended: Teeny Weeny Tape Winner: The Never-Ending publishers, visitor attractions, Vanessa Fortnam, the Staedtler, Mustard, Santoro, from Legami – Lime Stationery & Notebook – from Abrams & educational establishments and show’s marketing director, said: Crafter’s Companion and AT Art; Cactus Paper Clip by Alice Chronicle colleges, dealers, distributors, “For retailers and suppliers who Cross take a leading role on each Scott – from Portico Designs; Commended: Max 10-NL wholesalers and plenty of want to plan beyond the next of the ‘Seven Days of Stationery’. Sloth Sticky Notes – from West compact stapler – from Lime craft and art supplies retailers season, understanding how Other popular features Design Ltd, Vajournal – from Stationery & Art; Original Crown all spent time at the show. trend forecasting works and included the Reeves sponsored Thames & Hudson Mill Keyboard Notepad – from The show also welcomed a marrying the information to Creative Stationery Workshops, z GIFT PACKAGING & Lime Stationery & Art growing number of licensors what they know about current hosted by Julia Bonnar on WRAP: Winner: Hand tie-dyed z ARTS & CRAFTS: Winner: behalf of the AFCI.UK, the Live gift wrap - from Paper Mirchi Colour Happy Big Box – from Talks programme and Retailer Commended: When Puffins Go edding UK Ltd Workshops – all of which Shopping gift wrap book by I like Commended: Tombow Beginners created good pre-bookings and Birds – from Quadrille/Hardie Hand Lettering Set – from Stone were busy throughout the show. Grant; Christmas Wrap - Holly and Marketing; Faber-Castell Starter Hazel Fieldwick said: “The Mistletoe – from Laura Stoddart Hand Lettering Set – from West London Stationery Show is Ltd Design; Artline Supreme Brush the perfect event for buyers z LICENSED: Winner: Christian Marker – from Shachihata Europe to review what’s new in the Lacroix New York A5 Notebook – Ltd; Deluxe Modern Calligraphy sector and consider how from Abrams & Chronicle Set – from Manuscript Pen writing and paper products fit, Commended: Lulu Guinness z GOOD DESIGN: Winner: or might fit, their product mix stickers and labels – from Back Pocket Notebooks – from – a fashionable gift, a ‘must- Quadrille/Hardie Grant Back Pocket have’ treat, a smart home or z DIARIES, ORGANISERS z JUDGES’ CHOICE: Joint work essential – stationery AND CALENDARS: Winner: Winners: The Lilipad & Liliput – is increasingly regarded as New Octagon Collection - from from Lime Stationery & Art; The fashionable lifestyle accessory Octagon Design (LaunchPad Octagon Collection – from and an on-trend element of Winner) Octagon Design many product assortments.”

www.craftbusiness.com INTERVIEW 35

Evan J Blumenthal at the Craft There is nothing like Business Awards being Social 2018 Evan J Blumenthal, Chief Sales Officer of the Lion Brand Yarn Company which won the Craft Business Awards 2018 Best Social Media prize and was highly commended in the Best American Brand Category, talks to us about the brand’s online presence and what the future holds for the company Craft BUSINESS z HOW IMPORTANT respect that in terms of length z DO YOU HAVE NEWAWARDS z HOW HAS THE MARKET the market was soft because IS SOCIAL MEDIA TO and type of content (images, PRODUCTS COMING 2018 CHANGED IN THE these crafts were denigrated YOU AS A BRAND? videos, word count, etc). We OUT THIS YEAR? LAST FIVE YEARS? as being for “homemakers” Social media is one of our also take into consideration We have many new products in There are more companies just as women entered the primary marketing vehicles the expectations of the users the pipeline and we are testing selling yarn online. The challenge workforce. Today, with more because it is where most of our of each platform in terms a lot of ideas. We understand is that people want to feel and open ideas about gender; customers choose to spend of content. Instagram users that people choose yarn based see the yarn in person but these with a backlash against so much of their time every day. want beauty and stories. on colour and texture and we new companies are presenting much screen time; and with Facebook users want humor Craftare exploring the worlds Craftof the product and the inspiration a movement toward slow z HOW DO YOU USE IT? and empathy. This means BUSINESSpossibility in these two BUSINESSareas in ways that could influence fashion, the potential for We give customers useful that some content can be AWARDSas well as designing yarnAWARDS based mass market companies. yarn sales is significant. and inspiring content and that shared on all platforms as long on20 overcoming18 the challenges20 18 captures their attention. Our as it is modified and some people face in using our product. z WHERE DO YOU SEE THE z WHAT TRENDS goal is to make their knitting and can only be shared on select MARKET HEADING IN DO YOU SEE AT THE crocheting lives better by offering platforms. It’s almost never a THE NEXT FIVE YEARS? MOMENT IN YARN? insights into how to use the good idea to cut and paste the Knitting and crocheting There are trends in dramatic product, making it easier to get same content everywhere. not only seem to be yarns in both ends of the great results and more enjoyable. consistently popular, but spectrum. There are very z WHEN DID YOU Craft Craft also continue to find large, thick yarns and fine, PERSONAL IMPRESSIONS 1.4 3 col_ADS 01/06/2018BUSINESS 09:46 Page 1 BUSINESS z WHAT RESOURCES FIRST START USING AWARDS AWARDS new fans of every age sock weight yarns that have DO YOU PUT IN TO SOCIAL MEDIA? 2018 2018 because of the inherent been trending. What most YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA We have been early adopters benefits of the craft. people buy consistently, CAMPAIGNS? of all forms of social media. There was a time in the however, are the more We have an internal team who We started with a podcast in 1980s and early 1990s that traditional weights and fibres. knit, crochet, and design. They 2007 and a blog in 2008. are actual users of our yarn and have a deep understanding of z AS A COMPANY YOU the process and the customer. HAVE BEEN AROUND Craft FOR OVER 100 YEARS – BUSINESS z WHAT IS THE HOW DO YOU THINK THE AWARDS Leading MOST BENEFICIAL ORIGINAL FOUNDERS OF 2018 CHANNEL TO YOU? THE COMPANY WOULD Craft and Even though our community is VIEW SOCIAL MEDIA? largest on Facebook, Facebook The original founders were has made it harder to achieve social people. They were good Papercraft organic reach. We focus at networking and talented successfully on Instagram and salespeople. I think that if we Supplier, Pinterest while continuing to presented the concept based maintain a presence wherever our on its purpose as a way to customers choose to engage. As communicate rather than as 30,000+ a brand, we ourselves have the a technology solution, they reach that makes us influencers would see the sense of it. products and this allows us to successfully connect with other influencers z WHAT NEXT FOR in the space and mutually LION BRAND YARNS? benefit from sharing online. We are developing ideas to open the world of yarn z HOW DO YOU TAILOR crafting to a people who YOUR CONTENT FOR have not yet experienced DIFFERENT CHANNELS? the benefits that come from First, there are the requirements working with your hands to of the different platforms and we create something tangible.

• Card Making • Journaling • Scrapbooking • Papercrafting • Planners (card stock, envelopes, dies, toppers, embellishments, parchment, planners, punches, rub-ons, stickers, scrapbooks and more) General Craft Tools/Accessories: (stamps, stencils, inks, paints, glues, glitters tapes, ribbons. scissors, decoupage, storage solutions, moulds, clays and more) Merchandising Display Stands (paints, inks, decoupage and more) • Kits Personal Impressions (Part of the EM Richford Group), Curzon Road, Chilton Industrial Estate, Sudbury, Suffolk, CO10 2XW. Tel: +44 1787 375241 | [email protected] www.personalimpressions.com

www.craftbusiness.com 36 RETAIL

Top mistakes to avoid when selling crafts online Andrew Vear, Owner of Enterprise Badges, a global supplier of badge making machines and components, offers his top mistakes to avoid when selling crafts online

z The online world represents products in the best possible can be overwhelming, and a huge opportunity for way. They should be in focus, the user will be put off from selling crafts, so it’s with good lighting good, taken reading it. They will just move important to get it right. with a proper camera. It’s vital onto another product. Whether you list your that any unique features of Another factor to consider products on eBay, Etsy, Not on your products are highlighted. for your product listings is the High Street, or even have your Make the most of what’s Search Engine Optimisation, own website, there’s so much offered as well, for example Etsy which is the process of opportunity to generate sales, or lets you upload five pictures per increasing your rankings on of your crafts whilst growing various countries, so you can reach a huge audience. However, listing, and for eBay, you can Google. Once you’ve identified your follower base. These set your pricing right. It’s also over the years, we’ve noticed add up to 12 (for a fee). Why keywords that relate to your tactics will help to drive traffic worth looking at any regulations some common mistakes people not upload product pictures at product, and you want to rank to your website, helping you to and requirements, so your parcel make when selling crafts online. different angles, highlighting for (e.g. “silver stud earrings” or get more customers than you doesn’t get stopped at customs! To give your new business the the various features? “gold medal with ribbon”) you would have done, had you just best possible chance of being can include them in your product sat back and done nothing. z GIVING UP WHEN ABC 1.4 3 col_ADS 31/05/2018 14:09 Page 1 successful, make sure you avoid z WRITING POOR description, which can help give Pinterest is great for YOU DON’T SEE these five major mistakes! DESCRIPTIONS your ranking on Google a boost. businesses, with many pinners IMMEDIATE RESULTS Descriptions are equally as buying a product after seeing it Ultimately, you can read lots of z UPLOADING BAD important as pictures. If it’s z NOT USING on Pinterest. So, if your business online guides that explain how PHOTOGRAPHY too short – or too wordy – SOCIAL MEDIA isn’t already on social media, easy it is to sell crafts online, One of the biggest mistakes then no one will read it, and Whilst you should naturally now’s the time to sign up! and then get disheartened when when selling crafts online is no one will buy your crafts! A get traffic or visitors by being you don’t see immediate results. uploading bad photography. one-liner is not theVIRIDIAN way to 1-8go. 2 col_VIRIDIANlisted on 08/11/2017 the likes of 13:23Etsy Page 1 z NOT OFFERING The worst thing you can do Would you buy something online You should be as descriptive and Not ON The High Street, INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING though is give up. Just because if the only picture you saw was as possible when listing your one of the biggest mistakes Sure, the UK is a big country, you’ve listed a product and out of focus? Or grainy or blurry? product, highlighting all of the when selling crafts online but you’re missing a huge shared it on social media, that Probably not, so why would key features. Think about what is relying on that alone. audience if you don’t offer doesn’t mean you’ll suddenly get you expect anyone else to? you would want to know if you Social media is a great international shipping. hundreds of people interested. The number one rule when were looking to purchase the cost-effective way to market Purposefully cutting yourself Instead, you need to grow a selling online is to never upload product, and go from there. your brand. Set yourself up on off from loads of customers loyal customer base over time, poor quality pictures. Take You also don’t want to go Facebook, Twitter, Instagram is a big mistake to make. and frequently list new products my advice and invest time in too far and write an essay. and Pinterest, and start Worried about the extra so they have a reason to keep ensuring your photos show your If there’s too much text, it posting beautiful pictures costs shipping internationally will heading back to your online store. incur? There’s no need to worry. Over time, perseverance, Lots of businesses charge the experience and knowledge will customer extra for international pay off, and things should start shipping, and it’s often something falling into place. But that’s not that’s expected. If someone going to happen right away, really wants your products, they and you shouldn’t just quit. This won’t be put off by having to is one of the biggest mistakes pay a tad more for delivery. when selling crafts online. It’s important that you Setting up an online business research the cost of shipping to is exciting, but it’s not easy.

UK Distrubutor for: Sock Yarn Specialists • Opal • Eucalan

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

www.craftbusiness.com YARN SHOP DAY 2018 37

Another successful year for Yarn Shop Day Footfall on the rise and strong sales reported as customers flock to yarn stores KING COLE 1.8 3 COL_CRAFTS BUSINESS 19/04/2018 15:32 Page 1 z Yarn Shop Day 2018 was support from the UK Hand introduce customers to different There was all sorts going bigger and better than ever. Knitting Association. sectors of the yarn community. on in store. Emma Varnam The event, held on May Sarah Neal, editor of Let’s For example, Flock On The Plain, was surrounded by colourful CYGNET YARNS 1.8 2 col_ADS 01/06/2018 14:12 Page 1 12, was in its fifth consecutive Knit magazine said: “Once again in Wiltshire, hosted pop-up crocheted delights teaching year and supports bricks- Yarn Shop Day was a great shops from eight indie dyers mini crochet classes, Christine and-mortar stores. success, with shops reporting under the banner of Flockfest. Perry (Winwick Mum) shared special guest in attendance, It was launched in 2014 high levels of footfall and strong Similarly, Alterknit Universe, in her top tips on sock knitting, Stylecraft Yarns Blog Star by leading publications Let’s sales - and in some cases their Bristol, had a trunk show and Melanie Boocock (our Rowan Annaboo’s House, also known Knit and Let’s Get Crafting. best day of trading ever. an appearance from podcaster Consultant) taught customers as Sarah Shrimpton. Feedback from retailers “We didn’t think it was and indie dyer Amy Florence. to knit and Debbie Tomkies Commenting on Facebook, included increased footfall, possible to improve on last “Events like these are not filled the workshop room with a they said: “What a fantastic boosted sales and in some cases year’s event but feedback reports only valuable exposure for small rainbow of colour showcasing turnout for #yarnshopday! their best day of trading ever. suggest that many stores had indie businesses otherwise her dyeing skills. Thank you so We are shattered tonight! Sponsoring the event this an even better day this year. limited to online outlets, but much to all of our special guests “Big thanks to our visiting year were the The British Wool This is likely to be due to greater also give bricks and mortar for making the day so fabulous! Stylecraft Yarns Blogstar Show, Vanessa Bee Designs public knowledge of Yarn Shop customers a wider and more “On the day Emma Varnam Annaboo’s House, also Kate and Knittingtours.com, with Day, which is now in its fifth exciting choice. It’s terrific - and and Christine Perry took over our Hulme, Maureen Drinkwater & year and is hotly anticipated by very healthy - to see different Instagram account to share Yarn Doreen for all your help on day. many crafters, but also because elements of the community Shop Day through their eyes. We couldn’t do it without you! stores themselves are being benefiting each other in this way. There was a glass of Prosecco “Thanks to our suppliers, more proactive in generating I think we’ll see more of this sort for everyone, Stylecraft goody Stylecraft, West Yorkshire excitement and publicity for of collaboration in future as it’s bags and fab raffle prizes too.” Spinners & King Cole Yarn their own specific events. definitely a great way for both Christine’s Wool Shop, in & Pattern Manufacturer “Over the years, participating indie and mainstream businesses Bournville, Birmingham, had a for all your support.” shops have become increasingly to reach a wider audience.” creative and original in their Stores across the country approach to Yarn Shop Day, reported great business and using the benefits of a major lots of customers coming national campaign to help them through their doors. Cygnet DK generate fantastic engagement Amy Dagger, from Black with the local community.” Sheep Wools based in Culcheth, Beautifully soft acrylic yarn available in “This year we saw some Warrington, said: We had a over 50 shades fantastic initiatives, with vendors magnificent day at the Craft using Yarn Shop Day as a way to Barn for Yarn Shop Day 2018.

Does your Shop have a Craft Department? Have you thought about adding Knitting Supplies to your store? For 1 metre of space, you could have the Yarn as shown in the picture, plus 21 Pattern Leaflets and a selection of Needles. Total Cost = £512.95 | Total RRP = £1220.90 Total Profit = £707.95 Stand, Pattern Book & Needle Rack all supplied Free of Charge with order. ORDER ONLINE: www.cygnetyarns.com T: 01756 703670 E: [email protected] W: kingcole.com 01274 743374 Join us on Social Media [email protected] Cygnet Yarns Ltd, 12‐14 Adelaide Street, Bradford, BD5 0EA

www.craftbusiness.com 38 RETAIL CLINIC Spread your crafting wings

❚ Everyone loves to try their are likely to dabble in these Crafter’s Companion founder, Sara Davies MBE, hand at something new, sorts of crafts as well! right? But, when it comes to gives some top tips on diversifying your business trying something different in z FOCUS GROUP your business it can feel like As soon as you have a few ideas, a whole different ball game. consider setting up a focus However, while mixing things group of regular customers. up with your store might appear Get them to take a look at your daunting at first, you shouldn’t proposed product offerings CRAFTERS COMPANION mini_ADS 19/04/2018 15:38 Page 1 be afraid to give it a go. in depth, perhaps get them With the right research to test out a few samples and some trade tricks up your and gather their feedback. sleeve, you’ll be well-equipped to make some positive changes. z STUDY THE Whether you are eager to COMPETITION expand, or just fancy challenging Look at the current market yourself, here are my top tips for competition and ask yourself diversifying your product range. these questions: is it worth competing against them, is z DO YOUR RESEARCH there enough demand for these First things first, get talking to products, and can you retail yours your customers. Ask them what better? If the answer is yes to all else they would like to see on of these questions, then create your shelves, and if they have an action plan for launching and any products or crafts they have marketing your new products. been keen to try. Watch out Put as much behind it as you for the people who are leaving can, so that you can get it off your store empty handed. Were to a flying start. If you think you they looking for something in are providing something unique particular? Ask them! If the to the market, still create a plan same sort of products or a to help knock it out of the park! specific craft comes up time and time again, you could be on z TEST THE WATERS to a winner. If you are an online Once you’ve decided on some retailer, you could always pop a new products and your launch questionnaire at the checkout, on plan is ready to go, make sure your homepage or on your next to test the waters by stocking a e-newsletter to gather responses. small amount at first. Display the

“Once you’ve decided on some new products and your launch plan is ready to go, make sure to test the waters by stocking a small amount at first”

The next place to do your products in a prominent position research is in the market of your shop or on your website itself. Visit trade shows, attend to help gauge the reaction of seminars, chat to suppliers your customers. If it’s a hit, you and other retailers. Don’t can always bump up the stock be afraid to ask as many orders or even build up a new questions as possible. Ask department in your shop! them about upcoming trends, product launches and how to z GO FOR IT! manage a varied craft range. When you’ve mastered Also, do your own background diversifying your product research on the market to range, you might want to think see what else you can find! about taking things a step further. To really go for it, you z COMPLEMENT could begin to branch out into YOUR STOCK areas that are closely linked If you are still unsure about to crafts but are a different branching out into new areas, market altogether! Consider you can think more closely again the papercraft stockist, to home and find some they could look at stocking products that complement stationery items, or a sewing your current offering. For retailer could try out giftware or example, if you already have a storage solutions. Again, these great wool and yarn stock for would not only bring in new knitting and crochet, could you customers, but be something expand into dressmaking and current customers would enjoy! sewing? Or let’s say you are a So, there you have it! My papercraft stockist, why not go-to-guide for diversifying venture into fine art materials? your product range – good Catering to complementary luck in putting these tips into hobbies will not only bring practice and just remember, in another customer base, even small changes eventually but your current customers add up to huge results!

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INTERVIEW 39

DOING THE Minutes With... BUSINESS… EDITOR Mark Hayhurst 01206 508618 Yogesh Karia [email protected] HEAD OF EDITORIAL (BUSINESS) 5 Fae Gilfillan Yogesh Karia, Royal Talens Country Manager UK [email protected] & Ireland, tells us about his life and the company HEAD OF ADVERTISING (CRAFT) Martin Lack 01206 505940 z How did you become z How do you develop This develops [email protected] involved with Royal Talens? new products? the brain, gives z If you could offer your ADVERTISING MANAGER The company has a celebrated Our NPD program is as confidence, improves our younger self some advice Danielle Harris standing globally amongst progressive as it is innovative. motor and visual skills and what would it be? 01206 505954 students, artist, and leisure In fact, in 2017 we launched teaches us to focus and to be Patience, honesty, listen and [email protected] painters, I was asked to join 369 new products, and for persistent. It inspires creative perseverance. I find its all too ACCOUNTS the organisation, without 2018 we should equal this. Our thinking and helps us to see new easy to sometimes forget Anne-Marie Hartley hesitation I accepted, with programs are driven by product opportunities and solutions. key values in this disposable, 01206 505902 its amazing assortment of extensions, market trends quick change society that SUBSCRIPTIONS MARKETING products and brands, from and continual development z What trends do you see coming is often thrust upon us. Holly Rayner Sakura, Bruynzeel to Royal incorporating new materials and through for the rest of the year? 01206 505965 Talens, the decision was easy! concepts which help and shape The openness and z Are you creative personally [email protected] our products and offering encouragement to self-expression and if so what is your hobby? THE BAR RATE z What is the best part whether painting and or creative With many years in both the UK £28.00 about your job? z The company has been hand lettering, this will continue, Fine Art & Stationery/Craft Overseas €40.00 With the market in continuous trading for over 100 years. whether using a fine liner pen, or industry, sadly I am still a PUBLISHING DIRECTOR evolution, across Fine Art and How important is Royal Brush pen or ultimately a Quail, student whether painting Helen Tudor Creative Sectors, our product Talen’s heritage? this can only benefit both the to card making. However, DESIGN: categories have relevance and Our values drive us in everything end user as it will the purveyor whenever possible, I will and MS Typesetting and Design so its most rewarding when we strive to achieve, this is within of such materials. For us, we often do, sit in workshops to talking to perspective clients our DNA. At the heart is the desire have over the last 18 months, test, sample and enjoy sharing Printed in England and/or end users to share and for continuous development and seen dramatic appreciation and listening to feedback PUBLISHED BY: demonstrate the versatility of the investment in the Royal Talens of creative hand lettering, and from our audience, there is no Aceville Publications Ltd range, observing their enthusiasm family, its employees, secondly this is even more encouraging better clearer endorsements, 21-23 Phoenix Court, Hawkins Road, working with Royal Talens as it is seen across all age whether positive or constrictive Colchester, Essex, CO2 8JY Foundation, to help improve the groups from young students ©Aceville Publications Ltd lives of underprivileged children, to seasoned letter writers. z Which artists do DISCLAIMER:The views expressed in this through creative expression you admire? publication are not necessarily those of the publishers. Every effort is made to ensure like drawing and painting. z What does the future Jackson Pollock, the abstract the veracity and integrity of the companies, hold for Royal Talens? expressionist artist, for persons, products and services mentioned in this publication, and details given are The future is Orange, being a the random expression of believed to be accurate at the time of Dutch company. Historically ones feeling and emotions, going to press. However no responsibility or liability whatsoever can be accepted in the UK, we worked through whether pencil to paper or for any consequence or repercussion of wholesalers defined by Key Sales paint to canvas. Most of his responding to any information or advice Channels, however, back in 2015 works have an accidental, given or inferred. the decision was made to have yet unique signature. All his a Sales & Marketing platform. works, I believe inspire creative Working with our historical expression and are so easy partners and now with a direct to follow whilst not expecting sales team we have seen greater one to contest the contents or product and brand visibility meaning behind the painting amongst the UK customer base, whilst this is just the beginning, z What do you do to relax? we are already expanding by Family is important to, so I increasing the sales team to try and spend as much time meet the demand from our with them, alternatively I customers and their respective have been a keen but poor customers, the end user. student in the art of golf. WANTED Fabric & Haberdashery & any other clearance stock To advertise in considered for immediate Suppliers of Card Making, Scrapbooking, Craft and Bridal Supplies collection. Please contact Martyn please call Danielle on [email protected] www.www. 01206 505 954 07902 700 780

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