Craft Focus Magazine

www.craftfocus.com October/November 2011 October/November CRAFTFOCUS

Issue 27 www.craftfocus.com MAGAZINE Expert business advice Knit together Great customer service • Online A bumper guide to business success • What works trends, products and in marketing • Insurance matters expert comments • Webwise advice • Prepping for Christmas Needlecrafts PLUS There’s a plethora of don’t miss the latest types to tempt your product launches, customers news round-up, show reviews and previews

Two great competitions inside The low-down and latest on • Art materials Ofﬁcial media partner for • Craft clubs Craft, Hobby + Stitch • Quilting International and proud sponsor of the • Paper crafting New Product Showcase

October/November 2011 Issue 27

Managing Editor Louise Prance +44 (0) 1376 535 611 contents Editor Wendy Gardiner features +44 (0) 2392 261 338 regulars [email protected] editor’s letter 5 knit together 35 Editorial Assistant A round up of what’s in this issue The ever-expanding world of knitting holds Nancy Hayes many creative and commercial possibilities as +44 (0) 1376 535 611 we discovered [email protected] news round up 7 Reporting news and events that are Sales Manager Mark White happening now Adventures in Papercrafting 49 +44 (0)1376 535 606 Louise Fisher investigates the exciting world [email protected] brand spanking new 16 of papercrafting Sales Executive Tracy Voice The latest product launches +44 (0)1376 535 618 needle crafting 65 [email protected] competition – win VIP tickets 34 Step into the modern world of needlecraft Design Manager Two lucky readers of this issue will win VIP tickets, delights, with Becky Williams’ run-down of Sarah Barnes with hotel accommodation to next February’s tapestry, embroidery and more Deputy Design Manager Sophie Farage Craft, Hobby + Stitch International quilting today 77 Graphic Designers Laura Perry, Steve Mckea, project – make a lamp 56 Quilting: stitching together two pieces of fabric Hayley Kilminster, Brett Skingle, Dremel provide the how-to instructions to turn with a thick padding between them. Actually, Leanne Walsh quilting today is so much more than this +44 (0)1376 535 616 paper plates into a stylish lampshade [email protected] dictionary deﬁ nition Web Development Manager competition – gunning for success 57 Stuart Weatherley Enter our second competition of the issue and club together 101 Subscriptions you’ve a chance of winning a handy Dremel Holding craft clubs or classes in your shop might Alice Henson, Tammy Wright glue gun seem like an optional extra but Becky Williams +44 (0)1376 514 000 looks at why it’s a must in today’s retail world KD Media Publishing Limited Broseley House, Newlands Drive bookshelf 84 Witham, Essex, CM8 2UL, UK A whole host of new books have recently in the name of art 109 www.craftfocus.com been published. Wendy Gardiner provides an Louise Fisher gets the lowdown on art supplies Front Cover image: at-a-glance overview of what’s available from four of the biggest names in art King Cole q&a special - prepping for xmas 114 ISSN 1758-0900 This month industry expert Clare Rayner, answers focus on Craft Focus is solely owned, published and queries on how to get ready for the festive trade a major in quilting 58 designed by KD Media Publishing Limited. without peaking too early or breaking the bank Whilst every effort was made to ensure the EQS evolved as business boomed for Graeme information in this magazine was correct at the Wright and Elizabeth West. Graeme shares time of going to press, the publishers cannot subscription offer 119 accept legal responsibility for any errors or his story omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of Register for your regular copy of Craft Focus the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not templates are tops 74 necessarily reﬂ ect those of the publisher. Craft next issue 120 From templates to workshops to manufacturing, Focus is published six times a year. Subscription A preview of what’s in store for December/ rates for overseas readers are £75 per annum B-C-E has developed a thriving business inspired th (incl. p+p), Cheques should be made out to January issue – published on 28 November 2011 by imagination. Owner Jon Sutton tells us more… KD Media Publishing Limited and sent to Craft Focus, Broseley House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex, CM8 2UL, United Kingdom. 65 cotton patch, a family concern 88 Craft Focus magazine is proud to be With a good quilting knowledge and skills in associated with and supporters of: negotiation, purchasing and importing Jean and Geoff Sewell were on to a winner from the start MEDIA SUPPORTER

one stitch at a time 98 Stitch by Stitch is a dream come true for Sally Kemp, whose hope and aim is to keep traditional embroidery alive

craftfocus 3 MKZIN\[KW]S Suppliers of Card Making, Scrapbooking, Craft and Bridal Supplies

online business – a real gem 106 Turning a hobby into your job is a dream for many but for Janette Anderson of south Queensferry near Edinburgh it became a reality when she launched her business Allium up and coming – fire in the belly 122 We talked to Tony Nash about his new business Craft Dragon that has got off to an incredible start business advice going above and beyond 60 Jo Causon sheds some light on the many reasons why excelling at Suppliers of customer service makes good business sense Craft and Bridal Supplies Card Making Scrapbooking life after riots 82 Card Embellishments Big businesses assisting riot-hit high street traders could mark the Floral Products beginning of a new era of cooperation according to Robert Ashton [email protected] | 01384 230000 insurance solutions 87 Readers put their insurance queries, concerns and questions to leading brokers TH March a little effort goes a long way 91 Nick Waller shares the seven customer service points that have proven to be effective in ensuring that your customers feel relaxed and comfortable love your rubbish 94 Your Professional If you don’t give your rubbish due care and consideration, you could Designer & Manufacturer end up much poorer, and a criminal to boot, warns Jason Mohr of Craft DIY Heating Tools & Appliances! selling – what works and what doesn’t 97 In a new series for Craft Focus, Clive Harper will be highlighting what it ♥ Rhinestone Hotfix Applicator takes to make a success of a retail business. Here he shares what works ♥ Mini Craft Iron in sales and more importantly, what doesn’t! ♥ Ribbon Iron ♥ word on the web Embossing Heating Guns ♥ – a basic guide to website terminology, part 3 118 Glue Guns In the final instalment, Bob Scott focuses on secure ecommerce and ♥ 100% Patented Creative Products! online payment systems shows ♥ show news and events 26 We review CHA and Autumn Fair and have news of Craft, Hobby + Stitch International plus more trade and consumer shows from around ♥ the country Contact: ♥ Tel: 0086-592-5425497 dates for your diary 32 info@hotfixworks.com An at-a-glance listing of forthcoming trade and consumer shows www.hotfixapplicators.com

4 craftfocus if it’s crafting – we’ve got it covered! Hi, welcome to this absolutely jam-packed largest-ever edition of Craft Focus! We’ve packed the pages with a diverse range of crafting features sharing news, views and trends to help you keep abreast of what’s happening out there. Take a look at our special reports on knitting, needlecrafts, quilting, art materials, papercrafts and craft clubs – there really is something for everyone. Knitting has enjoyed an amazing resurgence over the last five years and its popularity continues to grow as the market diversifies as Becky Williams discovered. New products designed especially for beginners are bringing in fresh crafters, while new novelty yarns are bringing exciting creative possibilities to those who are experienced in the craft. Quilting is also enjoying renewed energy as we found out when talking to exhibition organisers, retailers, specialist magazines and tutors. We share what’s new in needlecraft, with a look at tapestry, long stitch, embroidery, rag rugging, crewel and stumpwork whilst in our papercrafting pages we take a look at some of the general areas that have seen definite surges of interest in recent times and products that are set to be ‘hot stuff’ in the coming festive season. Providing customers with how-to demonstrations and workshops isn’t a new idea, so it is interesting to see how classes and courses have taken off and provide positive potential to increase sales. Our final feature is all abut getting arty – with new materials and ideas to help encourage customers. Don’t miss our show news and reports – we’ve reviews of the recent CHA show and Autumn Fair, with comments from exhibitors and organisers about what sold well and what trends emerged. We’ve also previews of some of the forthcoming spring fairs as well as news of consumer shows that all help to encourage crafters. Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to enter two competitions! Craft, Hobby + Stitch International are giving away two VIP tickets and accommodation for the February show and Dremel have provided us with 10 super glue gun prizes.

Until next issue…

Wendy Gardiner Editor

PS: Next issue our attention turns to decoupage, jewellery making, trimmings, craft kits for children and visual merchandising. We’d love to hear your views and news on any of these features.

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Craft council and WI craft clubs Through additional Arts Fairy Tales, Candy Canes and Butterflies Online Council funding and a ChristmasBusinessUK has been working around the clock this year to design generous donation from a bespoke range of Christmas decorations for the forthcoming season. “We the National Federation are the largest independent supplier of Christmas decorations in the UK, of Women’s Institutes stocking over 500,000 baubles and half a million metres of tinsel and have (NFWI), the Craft Club an extensive product range” explained Wendy Clarkson, creative director of scheme now has 350 ChristmasBusinessUK. The new collection includes ever-popular traditional active clubs in primary decorations plus a new selection of beautifully handmade schools across the UK butterflies in purple and fuchsia and some extraordinary teaching children craft decorations to suit the craziest of themes. There’s also a skills with the help of local volunteers . The aim is to build on unique collection of candy inspired decorations such as this success, with volunteers passing on their skills to parents and a candy cane snowflake hanging decoration, a red and children in a fun and lively environment. “It will strengthen bonds white striped sequin bauble or a red and white lollipop between local communities and between family members by (all from £3) whilst the sugared almond collection will enabling them to learn new skills together,” explained the satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth craving! “Be adventurous this Crafts Council. year and try dressing your tree in retro multi-coloured Eleven volunteer training events are taking place across the bows from only £3 each!” said Wendy. “We have been UK this autumn including events in Cardiff, Margate, London, described as the ‘World of Christmas’ because our South Shields, Sheffield and Walsall as well as two sessions a large range is sourced from across the Globe. We day at the Knitting and Stitching show at Alexandra Palace from work extremely hard to make sure the products we 6th-9th October. From these sessions approximately 300 new choose are of the highest quality and my rule of volunteers will know how to effectively and confidently pass thumb is that I will only add items to our collection on their knowledge and skills to others. These training host that I would like to have in my own home,” Wendy venues will then be supported to set up a regular Craft Club added. Everything you need for a fairytale Christmas is using the trained volunteers. They will also be supported by the available online with immediate delivery. Retailers can buy online resource www.craftclub.org.uk that provides practical tips, through the trade website www.ChristmasBusinessUK.com. project ideas and an online forum connecting people who are passionate about craft and learning new skills. Needlework in People who are interested in attending one of these training Glasgow events can book online www.craftclub.org.uk/crafty_volunteers. World famous for its teaching of If you are unable to book online please ring the Crafts Council traditional embroidery techniques, on T: +44 (0)20 7806 2500. the Royal School of Needlework (RSN) started up a Scottish-based Extended licensing deal teaching centre at Make it Glasgow Design Objectives, the company responsible for craft website sewing café in the centre of the docrafts.com has signed a new licensing deal with Hallmark thriving Merchant City area this Cards. Design Objectives has been working with Hallmark September. They are offering a for the last three years, mostly on the well known Forever series of ‘taster’ days in different Friends brand, which as one of their lead licenses, has seen embroidery techniques including great success with over 400 products in the range. This new crewelwork, silk shading, blackwork deal expands the relationship between the two companies into and goldwork. RSN tutor Helen McCook will be teaching the classes. Helen has a broader range of categories for Forever Friends including a wealth of teaching experience combined with a contagious enthusiasm and kids crafting and covers other Hallmark properties including passion for embroidery. She explained: “The RSN first set up a Glasgow branch Country Companions and Lucy Cromwell. It also covers new in 1879 so we’re thrilled to be back running courses in Scotland some 132 years international territories. Commenting on the deal, Becks Fagg, later. The Make it Glasgow sewing café provides the perfect venue and we look head of product at docrafts said: “We value the Hallmark license forward to welcoming lots of craft enthusiasts to our classes in this historical as we see it as a key stone for our company moving forward.” and cultural heart of Glasgow.” All classes are suitable for beginners and no For more information on Forever Friends contact Julie Michell, embroidery experience is necessary and cost £65 each. T: +44 (0)7785 288194, E: [email protected] or visit Further details available from T: +44(0)20 3166 6937, E: gill.holdsworth@ www.foreverfriends.co.uk. royal-needlework.org.uk, www.royal-needlework.org.uk/courses.

craftfocus 7 news round-up

Promotions working

Crafty holidays Set on the foothills of Dartmoor National Park, The Manor House and Ashbury Hotels are the ideal venue for a craft break. Their unique Craft Centre offers 17 tutored crafts with expert tuition, including pottery, glass engraving, enamelling, personalised hot press printing and woodwork. As well as the arts and crafts, guests are spoilt for choice as there are many other activities to try out, available free of charge to Since launching AEG sewing machines, distributors Adjustoform hotel guests. These include tennis courts, bowls rinks, Sewing Limited have been very pro-active with several badminton courts, swimming pools with spa facilities, promotions to help bring the brand, which is new to the UK, to 10-pin bowling, snooker tables, and target ranges the attention of consumers. It joined with Coats Crafts UK to featuring archery, air pistols and air rifles. Breaks are full offer two reels of high quality Duet sewing threads with every board from £210pp, for four nights midweek. machine purchased and has run competitions in several sewing For more details T: +44 (0)800 197 7552, magazines with prizes offered to consumers who can answer a www.activityhotelbreaks.co.uk. few simple questions about AEG sewing machines. AEG Sewing Machines come from a background of thoroughbred products Comfort blanket campaign from a company that began life as light bulb manufacturer way back in 1887. The collection includes sewing machines, Future Publishing’s Simply Knitting and The overlockers and steam presses. The sewing machine collection Knitter magazine have teamed up with starts with entry level mechanical machines for beginners or national domestic violence charity Refuge sewers who simply want a basic machine (RRP approximately to help raise awareness about the issue £161) through to computerised and versatile machines with and support women and children who 191 stitch programmes and loads of features and accessories experience abuse. Working with Refuge (RRP approximately £349.99). to launch a nationwide ‘Comfort Blanket For further information contact Chris Darwent or Keeley Campaign’, the magazines are asking readers Glynn on T: +44 (0)1233 642865, to knit small squares, which can be sewn E: [email protected]. together to create larger blankets. The blankets will then be given to the women Dempsey Designs buys Minicraft and children who access Refuge’s services – with a target of making 100 Dempsey Designs is delighted to announce blankets by Christmas. it has purchased the Minicraft range of soft Refuge is the magazines’ nominated charity for 2011 and is celebrating its toy kits and fur fabric products from Groves. 40th anniversary this year. With one in four women experiencing domestic “This is a perfect complement to our current violence at some point in their lives, Refuge supports 1,600 women and range of craft kits. We have recently enjoyed children each day, providing a vital lifeline for those looking to escape the success in the soft toy kit area and feel misery of abuse. the addition of Minicraft is perfect timing,” As part of the Comfort Blanket Campaign, beautiful patterns are available said Debbie Dempsey. Minicraft Kits will online in an e-book containing 26 different designs at www.justgiving.com/ be available though Groves as normal for refugeblankets. The e-book is available for free, but the magazines are the independent retail trade and through suggesting a small donation for each download. Readers can then access Dempsey Design’s usual distribution. Debbie went the patterns created by fantastic designers and stars of the knitting world on to say: “Minicraft has a terrific heritage and some great including Alan Dart, Sarah Hatton, Judy Furlong and Simply Knitting and classic designs. We know the soft toy kit area is really growing The Knitter’s very own Debora Bradley and Juliet Bernard. The teams are and we look forward to developing this brand in the future.” encouraging everyone to get involved from individuals and crafting novices All Dempsey Designs Kits are manufactured in the UK and the to whole knitting groups. Readers can send in completed blankets directly to Minicraft Kits will be made alongside its own kits in Leicester, to Refuge’s London offices, or give blankets or individual squares to the editorial the same high quality standards. There are more than 50 soft toy team at October’s Knitting and Stitching show at Alexandra Palace. kits in the kit range which include pre-cut fabric pieces that are For more information please contact Debora Bradley, Editor of Simply ready to stitch. Price points start with the best selling mini kits Knitting, T: +44 (0)1225 442244, E: [email protected], at £4.99 up to the cuddly soft toy kits at £12.99. http://simplyknitting.themakingspot.com. Post blankets to: Fundraising/Simply For further information contact Debbie Dempsey at T: +44(0) Knitting, Refuge, 4th Floor, International House, 1 St Katharine’s Way, London 1869 337948, E: [email protected], E1W 1UN. www.dempseydesigns.com

8 craftfocus Brigantia Needlework Pure wool tapestry kits

Looking forward to 2012? We are.

With our Diamond Jubilee inspired designs, quality and service, let the celebrations begin!

• Extending our direct delivery service straight to your customer. Less work for you and faster service. • Providing an increased supply of worked models to help you sell. • Our Web ordering system has been launched to make it even easier to order. • Named telephone contact. If we can’t answer we’ll call you back. • Friendly and helpful advice service even if you don’t buy one of our products. • 160 shades of Pure Wool knitting yarn.

• More traditional and cutting edge designs.

www.BrigantiaNeedlework.com Brigantia Needlework, PO Box 60, Hebden Bridge, HX7 5ZE Phone: 01422 881100 Fax: 01422 884044 news round-up

ONLINE NEWS

New interactive website This summer saw the launch of a new look website for Rowan. Registration to the Row@n club is free and gives exclusive access to the forum, back catalogue of archive patterns, news and newsletters, events calendar, video tutorials and technical help. “There is also a new website feature named The Design Room, where you can see what our designers get up to on a daily basis, with galleries and designers stories,” said Sarah Brook. The forum allows Row@n members to chat with other members, exchange ideas, tips, create groups, or ask questions online. “There will also be an exciting new facility to search our catalogue of current designs and the possibility of accessing hundreds of free online patterns and exclusive patterns only available to our Row@n members, Sarah added. “We’re also making a digital version of our knitting and crochet collection available to Row@n members online. This is the ﬁrst digital publication we’ve created at Rowan and it coincides with the launch of our special landmark 50th edition. Extra content and articles have been added to the online version meaning that browsers can see the beautiful imagery of the shoot locations and designs and read exclusive articles written by head Rowan designer Marie Wallin,” said Sarah. The Row@n club will be separate from the Rowan Knitting and Crochet magazine subscription, where UK subscribers will continue to be able to join for £25 per year. For further information, contact Sarah at Rowan on T: +44 (0)1484 690803, E: [email protected].

Online crafting revolution New improved website for Mamelok Gwyneth Windsor of Topaz Consultancy and her team have Following the successful takeover of the Mamelok brand by a new been designing craft items for the trade for many years, and management team, the directors of Mamelok Papercraft Ltd have launched have in the past presented them on Ideal World/Create and a new company website. Showcasing the historic range of Mamelok die-cut Craft. Their ﬁrst CD ROMs were published in 1991, and they and embossed scrap reliefs, the site also features the company’s paper masks, have since produced over 250 cd-roms in both Education and dress-up dolls, friezes, garlands and greetings cards. To celebrate the launch, a Craft. The massive bank of designs include all kinds of papercraft number of Mamelok scraps are now also available with silver and gold glitter products including scrapbooking and cardmaking. They are now to bring an extra sparkle to scrapbooks, cards and other projects. offering licensing or partnerships so other companies can access Director Philip Saich said: “We’ve been fans of Mamelok for years and this growing revenue stream easily. “The partnership offer is a it’s very gratifying now to be able to play a part in the future development ‘no risk’ strategy allowing people to enter this market without of this fantastically quirky brand. ‘We have ambitious plans to develop needing costly design fees etc. We can supply product ready complementary products which we feel will be of interest to Mamelok’s for upload to a website, and therefore ready for customers to customers. We’ve already created a new wreath garland and a new dress- download immediately,” explained Gwyneth. “This is an ideal up doll called Florence, and we’ve expanded the range of glittered scraps way to make money from online craft sales without holding available for purchase.” Now located near the university city of Cambridge, any stock, offering a massive choice and being able to quickly Mamelok Papercraft sells to customers throughout the world. respond to trends and seasons” she added. Visit www.mamelok.com to learn more. For further details E: [email protected] or visit www.craft2print.co.uk. MOVERS AND SHAKERS

Linda Ayres Specialist Art and Craft book publisher Search Press recently announced the appointment of Linda Ayres as its New Business Development Manager in the UK. Her main priority will be to introduce and develop the Search Press brand into new areas. “Linda is already well known to us in her former role as sales director for Australian Consolidated Press and we welcome her and her expertise at selling into markets that are sometimes outside the normal craft radar,” explained Mary Ellingham, Publicity Manager. Linda will be based in Birmingham where she can be contacted at E: [email protected].

10 craftfocus news round-up

Dids Macdonald ACID (Anti Copying In Design) CEO Dids Macdonald has been appointed Vice Chair of the Alliance Against IP Theft. The Alliance is a unique coalition of trade and enforcement organisations, providing a single voice for those who share an interest in preventing intellectual property theft in the UK. On her appointment, Macdonald said: “There has never been a more important time, in The Alliance’s impressive history, to play a key role in its future - particularly now that its resonance is being heard loudly and clearly across the entire IP landscape. I look forward to representing the issues and interests of all the Alliance’s members, who are varied and diverse, but uniﬁed in the recognition of IP as a positive force for the UK’s growth strategy.”

Cariad – new gift shop

NEWS IN BRIEF Macmillan campaign goes to Westminster Infi-knit, the 127m long giant woolly scarf petition, run by cancer charity Macmillan, was presented to the government in June. In the midst of the recession the opening of an independent shop selling jewellery and gifts Macmillan web visitors were asked to say has provided a boost to the local economy of Welsh market town Llanrwst, North Wales. what things kept them warm – whether Cariad, established by local jewellery designer and budding entrepreneur Cariad Loughlin it was a bowl of homemade soup, or their opened its doors in April and has already been doing a bustling trade, proving popular with favourite dressing gown. Their message both locals and visitors to the area. Talking about her new venture, Cariad said: “I’ve always was turned into a bit of knitting by wanted to open a shop of my own and when I finally got the chance, I grabbed it with both Macmillan’s Knit-Bot machine, and could hands. I’m also planning to launch an online retail store when I’ve settled into the business.” be viewed through a web cam. All of the Further information T: +44 (0)1492 642 538, E: [email protected]. messages were knitted together to make ‘Infi-Knit’, a giant woolly scarf petition. Young entrepreneur fights back Over 5000 people took part, making An out of work graduate from Oundle, Northamptonshire, decided the scarf over 127 metres long. Further to fight back against unemployment and set up a pioneering website information is on www.macmillan.org.uk. selling quality, ethically sourced, handmade craft, with help from The Princes Trust. Rebecca Holder aged 25, launched The Emporium New shop opening – Arts Desire Oundle from her home last autumn, after spending months A new shop has recently opened in St unemployed despite graduating from Coventry University with a Benedict’s, Norwich’s bustling artists’ first class BA (Hons) degree in illustration and animation. Fed up quarter. Arts Desire, the creation of with no income and no job prospects, she successfully applied for Norwich artist and designer Kay Spalding, a £250 ‘Will it work?’ grant from the Princes Trust. She acquired a offers craft workshops and a gallery £2000 loan from the organisation in March and another £1500 in space for up-and-coming local artists. September to help her push the new business forward. Rebecca The shop also stocks tastefully selected said: “The first challenge I faced was signing up fellow graduates, friends gifts, jewellery and homewares, much of and neighbours to create an array of handmade merchandise that I could sell on my website. But which is hand-made in Norfolk. It’s been with so many young people unable to find work at the moment, I soon found willing suppliers to something Kay, who studied at Yarmouth work with me.” In no time at all, the young entrepreneur has built up a loyal customer base and College of Art, has been wanting to do now sells all kinds of high quality crafts – from soaps made from garden herbs through to candles, for several years and now with her three bags, stationery, jewellery and many other unusual, quality gift items. “We want to make a positive children growing up, she’s found the time contribution to the UK economy and society, and what better way to do so than to create the and location to go for it. next generation of UK businesses?” added Rebecca. Visit the website at: www.theemporiumoundle.com.

12 craftfocus www.colourcraftltd.com

Fabric Transfer Dyes Procion Fabric Dyes

UK Manufacturer and Distributor of quality fabric dyes, paints, inks and printing systems for art, craft, textile and design.

Angelina Fusible Fibres and Film Markal Paintstiks

Email: [email protected]| Tel: 0114 2421431 for further information, prices or to set up an account.

Colourcraft Colours & Adhesives Limited Units 5&6, 555-557 Carlisle Street East, Sheﬃ eld, S4 8DT

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Knitting superstar The Knitter, published by Future Publishing has partnered with one of the biggest names in the industry. Already a superstar in America and the UK, Jane Sowerby has got on board with the magazine to design some exclusive lace patterns for The Knitter. As the author of the seminal book ‘Victorian Lace Today’, which brought classic lace patterns to a new audience, Jane is an expert in the ﬁ eld. October’s issue will feature two beautiful variations on a gothic shawl, with designs for two different lacy cowls in November and February 2012. The next issue of The Knitter is on sale from 3rd October. Further information T: +44 (0)1225 442244, E: [email protected], www.theknitter.co.uk.

Award winning pop art Marketing your business With so many great resources on the web available for SMEs it’s diffi cult Truro Fabrics were amongst the judges of to fi nd marketing solutions that will work. Sarah-Jane White has collated ‘DesignEd in Cornwall’, held at University the best ones in an ebook called 49 Quick Ways to Market your Business College Falmouth throughout July. After for Free, which can be used as a guide and inspirational tool. “I wrote this judging 463 pieces of GCSE and post-16 book as a result of giving many talks on low-cost or no cost marketing to students design and technology work local business networks. The demand for all the information in one place from 24 schools and colleges,Truro was extremely high and the consensus was that an eBook was a preferred Fabrics announced Laura Toms from Looe option,” said Sarah-Jane. “If you just do one of the tips, once a week, you Community School as the winner of the should increase your company’s visibility both on and offl ine in no time!” she added. 49 Quick GCSE Textiles and Fashion category. Laura Ways is published by Brightword Publishing, ISBN: 978-085719-144-1, ePub, RRP: £4.99 and received the prestigious award for her available from all good online bookshops. textile bean bag inspired by the theme of Pop Art. For more information visit: Enchanted patchwork www.designedincornwall.co.uk Teamwork Crafts new Enchanted Forest designs from expert Gail Lawther are each 25 inches (64cm) square patterns, which can be sewn individually or all can be joined to make one big quilt. The six panels depict birds, deer, hedgehogs, hares, badgers and a magical are available at trade price of £3 each. The packs include full size pattern and clear how-to instructions. “Even if your customers haven’t tried stained glass patchwork before, they can confi dently start with any of these designs” said Gail Lawther. For further details T: 01903 750946, E: [email protected], www.gaillawther.co.uk.

14 craftfocus Introducing the ImPress from CraftDragon®

The ImPress is the ﬁ rst machine of its kind in the world. Designed and built here in the UK the ImPress was initially designed to make hot foil stamping available to the home user for craft and domestic purposes. To this end, the ImPress is small, lightweight and portable, inexpensive to purchase and run, attractive and ultra-stylish but above all, due to its’ revolutionary design, the ImPress has even more unexpected and exciting functions, making it the most versatile and accessible tool of its kind.

Beneﬁ cial features of the ImPress

* Easy to use * Light Weight * Easily Interchangeable printing heads * Unique slide in die system * Revolutionary positioning and guide mat * Variable Temperature control * Superlative design * British designed and Built * Precision ink Stamping * Inexpensive print enhancement * Sublimation Print onto Promotional Goods * Apply hot ﬁ x gems onto Fabrics * Suitable for All Age Groups * Professional Finishes * Other exciting uses to be released in the future

Why the ImPress?

The CraftDragon® ImPress can:

* Hot foil stamp * Precision ink stamp * Add Embellishments to all your projects and crafts.

As seen on Create & Craft TV Telephone Email Website 01782 658 333 [email protected] www.craftdragon.com

Unit 18, Trentham Lakes Technology Park, Longton Road, Trentham, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffs, ST4 8LJ brand spanking new What’s new, what’s hot and what’s must-have. We take a look at some of the latest products available

Prym Products

Product: Knitting loom Contact: Coats Crafts UK, T: 01484 681881, E: [email protected], www.coats.com Price: TBC Specification: The knitting loom design is based on the knitting dolly of old but it has 28, 32 or 36 pegs to be looped, depending on the size of sock required. It also has a soft handle and a casting-off needle. Retailer Benefits: Available in small, medium or large and with easy to follow instructions, even totally inexperienced knitters can quickly produce socks. Other Information: The knitting loom can be used to create trendy socks, stockings, leg warmers, wristlets and smart phone covers. It also fits neatly into any pocket so can be used even when you’re on the go.

SES Creative by John Crane Ltd

Product: Denim Handbag Deco set and Hello Kitty iron-on beads set Contact: John Crane Ltd T: +44 (0)1604 774 949 Price: RRP £14.99 Speciﬁcation: The denim handbag set includes the denim shoulder bag, fabric paints, glitter fabric and jewels to decorate it along with full instructions. The Hello Kitty handbag set also has a blank shoulder bag, plus glitter, cords, glue, paintbrush, iron-on beads, templates and ironing papers. Retailer Beneﬁts: These crafty kits will appeal to young fashionistas who love to be creative. They include everything needed, plus full instructions.

Peak Dale Products

Product: The Ultimate Candle Kit Contact: T: +44 (0)1298 78447, E: [email protected], www.peakdaleproducts.co.uk Price: TBC Speciﬁcation: The Ultimate Candle Kit includes a large 2kg of wax and nine different moulds including a votive mould and candle holder. The basic candle kit for beginners is also available. This is a smaller kit containing 1kg of wax and a mould. Retailer Beneﬁts: With Christmas approaching, The Ultimate Candle Kit contains everything for an enthusiastic candlemaker to make a range of different candles.

Berisfords

Product: Christmas collection of ribbons Contact: T: +44 (0)1453 883581, E: [email protected], www.berisfords-ribbons.co.uk Price: TBC Specification: Berisfords has so many festive ribbons in a multitude of designs including scripts such as Merry Christmas and motifs which include little fir tree and stripes, checks and plains. Merry Christmas (art 12330) is available in six colours and two widths of 10 and 25mm. Little Fir Tree (art 12910) comes in five colours and is10mm wide. Both come on 20m reels. Retailer Benefits: These glorious ribbons are available in reds, greens, silver and gold as well as vibrant brights and delicate pastels. Use them for embellishing Christmas party outfits, adding a finishing touch to a knitting project, brightening up a dining table, wrapping gifts or decorating Christmas trees, garlands and festive ornaments.

16 craftfocus new products

Janome Ltd

Product: Horizon Memory Craft 12000 sewing machine Contact: T: +44 (0)161 666 6011, www.janome.co.uk Price: TBC Specification: This is Janome’s first long-arm automatic embroidery machine with a total arm length of 440mm. New features include magnifying glass, powerful lighting with extendable light and a button to lift the foot automatically. The detachable embroidery unit opens to provide a massive embroidery area. It can stitch up to 1000 stitches per minute and has a 9 mm wide stitch capability. Retailer Benefits: All the usual Janome computerised features are included plus over 400 built-in stitches, the AcuFeed flex system for dual feed is of course included as is the auto fabric thickness sensor and two needles plates. Other Information: The new software interface that provides for a seamless real-time connection between PC and the MC12000 is called Horizonlink.

Paperblanks

Product: New autumn collection of journals and diaries Contact: T: +(00) 800 3333 8005, E: [email protected], www.paperblanks.com Price: From RRP £5.99 Mucha Collection, £15.99 Baroque Vantaglio Marrone to £19.99 Handstitched collection. Speciﬁcation: The new collection includes journals and diaries that have evocative and beautifully crafted covers. Baroque Vantaglio Marrone, is a combination of reproduction gilt-work over Moroccan leather whilst the Embellished Manuscripts collection includes beautiful reproductions of excerpts of original manuscripts, letters and drawings including the works of William Blake and William Wordsworth. Retailer Beneﬁts: The Paperblanks collection now includes around 400 different styles. Available in a selection of sizes, each exquisitely crafted journal takes inspiration from great artists, writers and textiles. Other Information: Paperblanks advocate social and environmental responsibility by utilising acid-free, sustainable forest paper and 100 percent recycled binder boards.

Premium Art Brands

Product: PanPastel and Sofft Tools Contact: Paul Giddens T: +44 (0)1926 492 213, E: [email protected], www.premiumartbrands.com Price: TBC Speciﬁcation: PanPastels are available in 80 colours and a variety of sets. No solvents or water needed as you apply dry colour. They can be applied to a variety of surfaces with either the unique Sofft tool applicators or with the specially formulated PanPastel sponges. Retailer Beneﬁts: PanPastels can be used with existing craft materials including stamps, craft markers, encaustic art for blushing/tinting wax, watercolours and much more. Other Information: Premium Art Brands are the exclusive distributors for PanPastel and Sofft Tools for the UK and Eire.

Buttonbag ltd

Product: Madame Jolie and Friends Sewing kit Contact: T: +44 (0)20 8525 1640, E: [email protected], www.buttonbag.co.uk Price: RRP £14 Speciﬁcation: Cut out and sew the legendary fashionista and her fabulous four legged friends. The cute, quirky styling of this sewing kit will appeal to girls aged 10 and above. It comes in a smart tin. Retailer Beneﬁts: This quirky eye-catching kit will generate lots of interest from your customers and will appeal to a wide age range.

craftfocus 17 brand spanking new

Coats Crafts UK

Product: Anchor needle craft kit and canvas collection Contact: T: +44 (0)1484 681 881, E: [email protected], www. webshop.coats.com Price: Father Christmas PCE892 Trade £14.69, RRP £31 Specifi cation: The new Anchor needlecraft kit and canvas collection includes stunning new cross stitch designs, quintessentially British scenes on the tapestry kit and canvas side, and beautiful long stitch designs and favourite license character pieces. Set to be especially popular is the festive Father Christmas PCE892 cross stitch kit, measuring 30 x 20cm. Retailer Benefi ts: The kit comes complete with all materials required thus making it a perfect gift either to give or to stitch for a friend. Other Information: Visit the Coats Crafts webshop to fi nd great special offers throughout the year.

Crafty Stamps

Product: Scottie and Highland Cow Merry Christmas Cling stamp (Code: XM1M) Contact: T: +44 (0)131 221 9440, E: [email protected], www.craftystamps.com Price: Trade : £2.71 (excl VAT), RRP £6.50 Speciﬁ cation: This is part of the new Christmas range from Crafty Stamps with a wee Scottish theme, consisting of a Scottie dog, highland cow and a Merry Christmas greeting. Retailer Beneﬁ ts: As with other cling stamps the rubber stamp is nicely packaged for ease of display, mounted on Kling-on for ease of use with an acrylic block. These products are priced attractively for retailer and customer. Other Information: Available for purchase from Crafty Stamps along with the other themed ranges. (Celtic, Scottish and Wedding). A low minimum order of £50 (pre VAT).

Daylight Company

Product: LED Lamp & Torch Contact: T: +44 (0)208 964 1200, www.daylightcompany.com Price: RRP £49.99 (DN1141) Specifi cation: This all new multipurpose lighting tool features 28 LEDs on the Desk Lamp and six LEDs on the Torch, none of which ever need replacement. All offer brilliant, full spectrum NaturalightTM so colours and details are seen in optimal comfort. Retailer Benefi ts: The light is great to use on the move, offering a lightweight and portable design which makes it easy to use at home or in the car. Plus, the lamp has an impressive six hours usage on three AA batteries. Other Information: The unique design features a sturdy fold-out structure allowing fl exible positioning, with a convenient hand strap.

Ellison Europe Ltd

Product: Framelits Die Sets Contact: T: +44 (0) 8444 998 181 (UK) T: +44 (0) 845 345 2277 (outside UK), E: [email protected] Price: RRP £13.99 Specifi cation: Framelits dies come in sets of 4-7 with each die designed to fi t within the next largest die of the same shape. Designs include hearts, scalloped circles, stars and squares and can be used to cut apertures, create frames. They can be layered up to add depth and much more. Retailer Benefi ts: These dies are ideal for novices and experts alike and can be used independently, as a whole set or just with one or two together. Other Information: Sizzix has already developed the Framelits technology into die sets with stamps which will be available from February 2012. These new designs are a collaboration with Stephanie Barnard.

18 craftfocus Eco-Fi: High quality polyester ﬁ bre made from 100% post-consumer recycled plastic bottles used in the manufacturing process of Kunin Craft Felt.

For further information about Kunin Craft Felt 0DQXIDFWXUHUVDQG,PSRUWHUV 7KHÀQHVWVLON SDLQWLQJDFFHVVRULHVIURPDURXQGWKHZRUOG please contact ([FOXVLYH8.'LVWULEXWRURIGH&RORXUDQW Fashion Futures Limited, Units 1 and 2 Mace Industrial 7UDGHHQTXLULHVZHOFRPHFDOORUHPDLO Estate, Ashford, Kent TN24 8EP. [email protected] Tel +44 (0) 1233 625227. Fax +44 (0) 1233 612352 VDOHV#PXOEHUU\VLONVFRXN ZZZPXOEHUU\VLONVFRXN

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t: 0845 543 9046 e: [email protected] w: www.tigerlilymakes.co.uk brand spanking new

Hantex Ltd

Product: Woolfelt Christmas Ornaments Kit by Rachels of Greenfield Contact: T: +44 (0)1754 820 800, E: [email protected], www.hantex.co.uk Price: RRP £16.99 Specification: The kit includes wool felt, embroidery floss, gold string plus precise patterns and illustrated instructions to make six mittens. Colours are sandstone, red, green, gold, brown, and white. Each mitten is approximately 4” x 4 1/2”. Retailer Benefits: Rachel’s of Greenfield kits contain everything needed to complete the project and the high quality patterns and instructions make them accessible to people of all skill levels. Finished models are available to buy. Other Information: These kits are part of a very successful range that includes quilts kits and wool felt appliques in many different designs. DMC Creative World Ltd

Product: MYFBM My Friendship Bracelet Maker and CBFBM My Friendship Bracelet Maker Clip Board Contact: T: +44 (0) 116 275 4000, E: [email protected], www.dmccreative.co.uk Price: MYFBM RRP £14.99 and CBFBM RRP £9.99 Speciﬁcation: Colourful tools designed to simplify the craft of making friendship bracelets. MYFBM is available with a storage tray and Prism threads and CBFBM is available with a handy clip board facility and Prism threads. Retailer Beneﬁts: Exclusive to DMC in the UK there’s also support and ideas through the MYFBM website: www.myfbm.com. Other Information: These product help children with their dexerity. DMC offer Prism value crafting threads as an additional sales accompaniment with various creative packs of brightly coloured craft threads ideal for Friendship Bracelets and other craft projects. Mary Kilvert

Product: Colourful Sheep Cushion Contact: T: +44 (0)208 274 0053, E: [email protected], www.marykilvert.com Price: RRP £40 Specification: This new cushion shows a colourful flock of sheep illustrated by Mary Kilvert. Handmade using beautiful linen and combed cotton mixed with a neutral plain linen back it measures approximately 42cm square and is filled with 100 percent deluxe duck feather insert. Retailer Benefits: The cushion can be purchased directly from Mary Kilvert’s online shop www.marykilvert-shop.com Other Information: Mary Kilvert’s Colourful Sheep range also includes limited edition prints and designer tea towels and mugs.

Mulberry Silks

Product: deColourant Plus 2.5oz Jar Contact: T: +44 (0)1603 739 222, E: [email protected], www.mulberrysilks.co.uk Price: RRP £8.99 each Specification: deColourant and deColourant Plus, are a new, innovative and totally unique product range. Get great precision and fantastic fine line detail, all in an easy to use citrus scented cream. deColourant does not change your fabric or papers in any way, it works exclusively on the colour dyes, removing them and revealing the true beauty underneath. deColourant Plus also replaces the removed dyes with your colour choice in a one-step, non-messy process. Retailer Benefits: “The world’s best discharge paste for artists and screen printers, deColourant is unlike anything else on the market for ease of use and great results,” said Mulberry Silks. Other information: Judged Top 20 New Products at CHA 2011.

20 craftfocus &UDIW.LWV

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Hantex Ltd

Product: Bitter Sweet book by Art to Heart Contact: T: +44 (0)1754 820 800, E: [email protected], www.hantex.co.uk Price: RRP £15.50 Speciﬁ cation: Bitter Sweet is the latest book from Art to Heart and contains seasonal projects including wreaths, pumpkins, table runner, quilts, ornaments and coasters. Perfect for teaching in workshops. Retailer Beneﬁ ts: Art to Heart books have been consistently popular for many years, due mainly to their diverse range of projects ranging from the very simple to more challenging. Add on sales such as wire hangers and stands are also available.

HobbyFun UK Ltd

Product: Creapop and Fabrics (sticky plastic and organza fabrics) Contact: Samantha Austin, T: +44 (0)776 379 8776, E: [email protected], www.hobbyfunukltd.co.uk Price: RRP £18.00 starter set Speciﬁ cation: The starter set includes two special sets of two sheets of sticky plastic and 10 A4 sheets of organza of your choice plus a free pack of Christmas card designs. Retailer Beneﬁ ts: This product is great for making cards, toppers and scrapbookers. The plastic sheets are 0.3mm thick and will go through all cutting machines enabling users to create their own shapes and designs. HobbyFun also sell pre-cut sticky templates to decorate in fabrics of choice. Other Information: Children can take part in the development of this unique toy and even learn to knit thanks to the very simple and easy to use pattern.

Sticky Skins

Product: Sticky Skins Contact: T: +001 443 418 9634., E: [email protected], www.stickyskins.com Price: RRP $5.50 – $11.50 + shipping Speciﬁ cation: Sticky Skins personalises as well as protects any device. With custom cut material that uses innovative technology with pressure-activated adhesive and air release technology, Sticky Skins are easily placed but more importantly removed without leaving any trace of residue or damage to the device. Retailer Beneﬁ ts: Sticky Skins is constantly adding devices to the line. There are skins for laptops, net books and gaming devices as well as phones. Other Information: Some of the more popular devices for which there are Sticky Skins include: iPhones, some Blackberrys, Amazon kindle, Apple iPad and iPod. It is also possible to create a line for a device that is currently not available.

Woodware Craft Collection Ltd

Product: Sakura Gelly roll metallic gel pens Contact: T: +44 (0)1756 700 024, E: [email protected], www.woodware.co.uk Price: RRP approximately £2 per pen Specifi cation: A point of sale display holding 150 Sakura Gelly Roll Metallic pens, themed with a Christmas theme. 60 x Gold, 60 x Silver & 30 White. The Metallic Gelly Roll pens are opaque so can be used on darker card as well as the lighter shades to create some stunning effects. Retailer Benefi ts: The point of sale display is free standing or will fi t on your Sakura display. The display can be topped up from Woodware Craft Collection’s stock quickly and easily. Other Information: The samples on the header have been created using peel off’s designed by Francoise Read and are also available from Woodware.

22 craftfocus *LIWLGHDVLQFOXGLQJHPEURLGHU\NLWVERRNV QHHGOHZRUNHTXLSPHQWPXJV FKRFRODWH

&RQWDFW6DUDK7D\ORU 7 (VDOHV#UR\DOQHHGOHZRUNRUJXN ZZZUR\DOQHHGOHZRUNRUJXNVKRS brand spanking new

Bothy Threads

Product: Mr Men and Little Miss designs Contact: T: +44 (0)1638 665149, E: [email protected], www.bothythreads.com Price: RRP £27.49 Specification: Princess Carriage (XMMS9) is 26 by 26cm square on cloudy blue 14 hpi Zweigart Aida with gold/silver sparkle and glitter threads. London Bus (XMMS10) is 36 by 28cm on white Zweigart Aida. Retailer Benefits: These designs can be used to celebrate a birth, wedding or any other sparkly occasion! With Union Jacks flying the London Bus is a really good one to celebrate the year of the Olympics.

Beadalon

Product: Artistic wire mesh Contact: T: USA (866) 423 2325, www.beadalon.com Price: TBC Specification: Artistic Wire® Mesh is a permanently coloured, hollow copper wire woven into a mesh tube that’s been flattened but can be stretched, wrapped and twisted to give an alternative dimension to fashion jewellery. It is available in six popular colours; silver, gold, copper, black brown and hematite and two sizes; 10mm and 18mm. Retailer Benefits: The wire mesh can be filled with shaped pieces of wire, or stretch the mesh to create 3-D shapes. To finish-off crimp it with C-Crimp findings, tie it, or try wrapping it with artistic wire. Other information: Wire Mesh was named as one of the ‘Top 20 Hot Products’ at the July CHA Summer Conference & Trade Show.

Beckmann Direct

Product: Inspired series of DVDs Contact: T: +44 (0)1624 816585, E: [email protected], www.beckmanndirect.com Price: Trade price £12.25 Specification: This series of Inspired practical DVDs range in length from 49 minutes to over 90 minutes. Presented by experts in their field, topics covered include Recycled Ribbons, Embellishing parts 1 and 2, Textile Techniques, Working with Velvet and Textile Landscapes. They come packaged in hard plastic sleeves with colourful printed outers. Retailer Benefits: Each DVD has a series of projects that viewers can make whilst learning new skills. Other information: Produced by Colouricious, the collection is constantly expanding with new films being added regularly. More information can be viewed at www.youtube.com/beckmannvp.

Elizabeth Bradley

Product: Dahlia tapestry kit Contact: T: +44 (0)1865 339050, www.elizabethbradley.com Price: RRP £102 Specification: Infused with pretty pink tones and a detailed single flower head design, the kit contains all materials needed to finish the tapestry. It is beautifully presented with colour-coded chart, quality 100 percent British wool, needles, instructions and a printed canvas. Retailer Benefits: The kits are designed to provide endless stitching enjoyment for all abilities whether they’re starting from scratch, are avid stitching fans or are brushing up on latent skills. Other information: This kit has been designed to help consumers support Breast Cancer Awareness. For every pink Dahlia kit sold during October 2011, Elizabeth Bradley will donate 20 percent to Breast Cancer Care.

24 craftfocus show news and reviews Wendy Gardiner provides reviews and previews including a review of CHA summer show and news of some of the spring fairs on offer

Nikki Sivils What new products did you SHOW REVIEW launch at the show? We released fi ve new collections at the CHA summer show: CHA Summer Show School is Cool, Get Well Soon, The CHA 2011 summer show hosted 216 exhibiting companies fi lling My Lil’ Monster, You’re a Hoot 77,824 square feet of exhibit space. The Show attracted over 4,000 and Gingerbread Land. Each line qualifi ed trade show attendees as well as 716 buying companies from includes 12x12 patterned papers, 44 states and 36 countries. In addition,,the CHA conference achieved 12x12 cardstock punch-outs and 12x12 alpha and element stickers a dramatic increase in attendance with 28 per cent of all attendees all of which can be purchased individually or as collection kits. participating in off-show-fl oor events and education. This is up from Was the show successful for you? 10 percent in 2010. We fi nd the CHA summer shows to be increasingly slow in Additionally, CHA’s show theme of Craft Fusion: The Selling Power attendance and sales – especially compared to the winter show, but of Mixed Media, and its Craft Fusion Centre reinforced the versatility of despite that, Chicago is always good to us! mixed-media crafting and energized the industry by re-focussing on the Which of your products were received best? hottest trends in mixed-media. The Craft Fusion Centre featured Crafty We had a great response to our new collections, in particular our Couture, a CHA designer display competition, and daily ‘Minute-to-Craft- Get Well Soon line and our new 12x12 alpha stickers. It’ mixed-media challenges, which created additional excitement on the What were the biggest trends you noticed? show fl oor. Walking around the summer show, we noticed a lot of really cute “Despite slightly fewer retail companies and overall show monsters and other adorable whimsical characters. attendees, the show fl oor was larger than last year and the vibe was Further information, T: +001 417 838 0996, very upbeat and positive,” says Tony Lee, acting president and CEO, E: [email protected], www.nikkisivils.com CHA. “Many of our exhibitors reported that they were pleasantly surprised by the consistency of foot traffi c and increased face time with key buyers. While we still have a long way to go to get back to Connie Crystal pre-recessionary show participation, we are happy with the overall What new products did you launch at the show? performance of this year’s summer show and are developing plans to We launched our new line of beads which consists of an assortment enhance our shows in the future.” of different colours. Tom Vasko of Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L commented: “We’ve been Was the show successful for you? exhibiting since 2004, and this year’s show was unique. It initially looked Yes it was. Our redesigned booth certainly attracted a lot of like it was going to be smaller, but our traffi c was consistent, so our attention. Everyone was attracted by the amount of sparkle! expectations have been exceeded.” Which of your products were received best? “This is our fi fth CHA Show and our best one yet. Everything went We were very pleased that all of products were received equally well. well, and we met lots of new customers who saw us for the fi rst time,” The launch of our new line added a nice touch to our Suncatchers. said Stephan Derome with Marmonie Loisirs Creatifs. What were the biggest trends you noticed? “Whilst we didn’t launch any new products at CHA this year, we After talking to many people we realized that there is a trend that still found the summer show very successful with all of our products is just starting. That trend is the embellishment of any kind of craft received well by buyers” said Matt Stanchie from Picture Keeper. project with some sparkle. People have been looking for something Our own Tracy Voice also attended and enjoyed the opportunity of that sparkles very well and that does not break the bank. We are catching up with many of the international companies we know, she very fortunate to be able to provide them with just that! also managed to meet people from some of the new up and coming Further information, T: +001 732 721-6379, businesses. We also asked a few of the UK companies who exhibited www.conniecrystal.com. how they faired.

26 craftfocus show news and events

SHOW REVIEW Crafter’s Companion enjoyed a successful show at the recent CHA summer show Autumn Fair Crafter’s Companion International Which new products did you launch at the show? Autumn Fair International We launched the Envelobox Creator and Boxer boards which took place at The NEC, th th are add-on boards for the multi award winning Ultimate Crafter’s Birmingham from 4 - 7 Companion Pro. We also launched our brand new alcohol ink September and proved to be markers Spectrum Noir. an inspirational event for the UK Was the show successful for you? retail community, with a three per cent The show was very successful for us. We were privileged to win an rise in footfall compared with last year and a visitor attendance innovation award for the Envelobox Creator board. of 32,300 (highest since 2006. Figures subject to ABC audit). Roz Which of your products were received best? McGuinness, Event Director, Autumn Fair International described the We were blown away by how well the Spectrum Noir pens were event as a great opportunity for the industry and said: “The quality received – the US market is now eagerly anticipating the launch of of retailers at the show was high, with a combined buying budget the range in October. Loads of pre-orders were taken for the range, of £6 billion from buyers across all sectors. With no other national including some from many new, large customers who are keen to trade craft shows taking place at this time of year, the show was also bring Crafter’s Companion on as a vendor. the perfect sourcing environment for buyers in search of up-to-the What were the biggest trends you noticed? minute Christmas merchandise and an early preview of spring ranges” The biggest trend at the show was for Mixed Media – a fusion she added. Emap Connect had also made a major investment in new of different crafts. Crafters are enjoying new creative pursuits in features and provided a strong focus on future trends to create a addition to the hobby they already do, for example combining directional event that was the perfect launch platform for 60,000 brand jewellery making with papercrafting. This is good news for retailers, new products from over 1500 exhibitors, 900 of them exclusive to AFI as it automatically widens their potential customer base. this season. Further information, Crafter’s Companion, T: +44 (0)1388 663251, E: [email protected], The hobby & craft section www.crafterscompanion.co.uk One of the most exciting new initiatives for Autumn Fair International 2011 was the brand new Hobby & Craft sector in Hall 5 of the exhibition, supported by an excellent craft demonstration zone. Roz Flower Soft McGuinness said: “With 40 exhibitors from the UK and overseas Which new grouped together under the Hobby & Craft banner, the new sector products did you represented a small but significant start, but one that will enjoy a much launch at the show? larger area in 2012 following this year’s enthusiastic retailer response.” We were delighted The new craft demonstration zone was co-located with the Bladez- to launch a whole sponsored toy demo area. Throughout each day of the fair, exhibitors range of new presented their latest ingenious crafting products to packed-out products at the audiences, providing inspiration to retailers on the hunt for something CHA summer show new and exciting at the show. including new card The verdict on the new Hobby & Craft sector of Autumn Fair was Flowersoft launched new card toppers toppers, new Flower extremely positive on both the exhibitor and visitor side. Sara Davies, and card-making starter kits Soft card making sales director of Crafter’s Companion said: “By lunchtime on the first starter kits and Flower Soft colours and clear stamps. day, we knew that we’d made the right decision in taking part in the Was the show successful for you and which of your products show. That evening we bought a couple of bottles of champagne to were received best? celebrate over dinner! We were very happy with the craft demo area Yes, the show was successful. Our top selling new Flower Soft and found that buyers walked directly from the theatre to our stand and colours in our Diamond range - ruby, emerald, amethyst and our placed orders on the back of our demonstrations.– it’s been the biggest new Ultra Fine White went down very well. New card topper best opportunity for revenue growth.” sellers were our Christmas snow globes, Christmas tree pyramids Jon Cowen, Director of Payper Box was also pleased with Autumn and our new starter kit. Fair, commenting: “We’ve met toys buyers, craft buyers and gift buyers. Further information, Flower Soft Inc, E: mark@flower-soft.us.com, We’ve seen an interest from buyers that have never thought about www.flower-soft.com or for the UK, stocking craft products before but are considering it now having seen us Katy Sue Designs Ltd, T: +44 (0) 191 427 4571, exhibiting here. With such a diverse audience at Autumn Fair, we have E: [email protected]. most definitely increased the visibility of our brand by participating in the show.”

craftfocus 27 show news and reviews

SHOW PREVIEWS

Paperworld and Creativeworld Dates: 28th - 31st January, 2012 Venue: Frankfurt am Main Web: www.paperworld.messefrankfurt.com, www.creativeworld. messefrankfurt.com Paperworld is the leading international trade fair for stationery, office supplies and writing implements for home and commercial markets. Professional buyers come together to meet with market leaders and small, innovative companies. This year more than 2,000 exhibitors travelled to Frankfurt to reveal their latest products and ideas to the entire industry over four days whilst 107,000 trade visitors attended the combined Paperworld, Creativeworld and Christmasworld shows. Exhibition organisers are expecting even greater attendance in 2012. Paperworld also provides visitors with the ideal venue for discovering the latest trend shows, numerous innovations, award ceremonies and Visitors to Autumn Fair found it really events, through the comprehensive programme of special exhibitions. useful to have craft products displayed Here you will find inspiration for future assortments and learn about the alongside other sectors, like gifts and cards latest designs coming into the market. Running alongside Paperworld for the second year is “the world’s Retailers were also impressed, with Josie Foster, owner of craft store, biggest trade fair for the creative sector, Creativeworld – an important The Gallery, saying: “I think it’s really useful to have craft products international trade fair for all hobby, craft and artist suppliers,” said the displayed in an environment that also has things from other sectors, organisers. Creativeworld provides a huge assortment of themes for like gifts and cards. It brings a whole new dimension to this market and visitors to discover through four main product groups; decorative crafts, it’s also very helpful for us to find out what the trends are going to graphic and artists’ requisites, dandicrafts (textile design) and hobby be. This is a very nice show all round, well laid out and very civilised! and crafts. The suppliers are also extremely focused here and the craft people in For further information T: +44 (0) 1784 415 950, particular have been very keen for us to give demonstrations on their E: [email protected], www.paperworld.messefrankfurt.com, stands. We found the craft demo area to be extremely useful.” www.creativeworld.messefrankfurt.com. For visitor registration: There are exciting plans afoot for both the Hobby & Craft sector and www.ukfrankfurt.co.uk. the whole of Autumn Fair International in 2012, which will take place at The NEC, Birmingham from Sunday - Wednesday 2nd - 5th September (volume hall opens one day early). For more information contact Roz McGuinness: [email protected]

Autumn Fair attracted about 32,300 visitors

Paperworld and Creativeworld provide the opportunity to learn new skills as well as ﬁnd new products

28 craftfocus show news and reviews

SpringFair KraevaK Dates: 5th - 6th February, 2012 Venue: Rignhal, Arnhem Web: www.asws.nl Promising to be the most colourful trade show in Europe SpringFair KreavaK provides retailers, wholesalers and other businesses with an ideal platform to meet and network with manufacturers, importers and other suppliers in the Creative and Make It provide exhibitors plenty Hobby market sector.. It covers wool, crafts, hobbies, dolls, picture of options for corner stands framing, sewing, quilting, painting and drawing art, haberdashery, fabrics and sewing machines. Organisers ASWS said: “By organising Make It th th an exhibition like this one, the interests of each branch are Dates: 24 - 26 February, 2012 optimally served. Manufacturers, importers, tradesmen, suppliers, Venue: The Farnborough Airshow, Hampshire service providers, publishers and specialised magazines in the Web: www.make-it.org.uk creative sector are given the opportunity to exhibit their services There are some exciting new developments on the way for next and products in the perfect environment. February as Make it 2012 introduces an array of new craft companies Further information from T: +31 172 575 888, E: [email protected], to exhibit alongside the established card making and paper craft line www.asws.nl. up. Make it Homemade is designed to widen the appeal of the show to other craft sectors and will incorporate suppliers of home hobby craft products. Crafts will include knitting, stitching, beading, patchwork Craft Hobby + Stitch International and quilting, candle making, felting, ceramics, preserving and baking. Dates: 19th - 21st February, 2012 More than just an exhibition, Make it offers visitors a series of hands-on Venue: NEC Birmingham workshops, all run by exhibitors. The programme presents a range of Web: www.ichf.co.uk/chsi papercraft, beading and stylish home craft projects. Craft Hobby + Stitch International reports an exceptional stand take-up Make it already consistently attracts over 10,000 visitors each year for next year’s show. “This follows the huge success of last year’s show and with the introduction of Make it Homemade, it is anticipated that which saw more than 7000 buyers attending from over 40 different visitor numbers will further increase by some 40 percent. The exhibition countries, reflecting the continued growth and reach of the show,” said takes place on the site of the Farnborough Airshow in Hampshire, an show organiser Troy Bennett. As well as the busy exhibitor stands, enormous purpose built hall in a spacious setting with adjacent free the CH+SI show will offer visitors more than 150 hours of dedicated parking it has easy access and direct motorway links. If you would like to training, technique and seminar-based sessions. The programme currently find out how you can get involved in Make it 2012, please call being created for visitors wil provide seminars giving advice and Kate Valentine on T: +44 (0)1784 880890, E: [email protected] inspiration on everything from enhancing sales with effective displays, to or visit www.make-it.org.uk. supplying and maximising sales on TV. Industry experts will deliver the free seminars and workshops, sharing their specialist skills and advice. CHA Winter Conference & Trade Show 2012 Even more choice The Craft & Hobby Association (CHA) announced “The Power of Groves will be bringing an enhanced stand to the 2012 show, following Community: Build Locally, Drive Socially” as its theme for CHA’s 2012 its recent acquisition of Impex. Michael Lane, marketing consultant Winter Conference and Trade Show. To demonstrate the power at Groves said: “We’re looking forward to bringing an even bigger of community building, CHA’s board of directors voted to approve and better redesigned stand to the show in February where we’ll be removing membership requirements for CHA Trade Show exhibitors exhibiting all of the brands we already work with plus, for the very first and attendees. Beginning with the CHA 2012 Winter Conference & time, our full range of Impex products.” Trade Show, non-member companies are welcome to exhibit, shop The ‘Itch to Stitch’ needlework demonstration area, hosted by Jane the show floor and experience the craft industry’s premier trade Greenoff and sponsored by Madeira Threads, will provide retailers with events first-hand. a one-stop-shop of top tips including: How to promote needlework Opening the CHA Trade Show floor to non-member exhibitors workshops and classes in store, stock ideas, top tips and techniques and attendees represents a major shift in community building to develop needlecraft in store. In the ‘Itch to Stitch’ area, Madeira within the craft, hobby and other related creative industries. “While Threads will showcase its hand embroidery products including Mouliné, remaining focused on our core business, we recognise that there a stranded cotton embroidery thread which comes in a practical blister is a tremendous opportunity to grow the show and industry by pack. In addition, visitors will also be able to browse Madeira’s stranded offering an affordable way to experience the CHA show and silk and metallic threads. attracting a more diverse group of exhibitors and buyers,” says Tony Show Organiser, Troy Bennett said: “Craft Hobby + Stitch 2012 will be Lee, acting president and CEO of CHA. “CHA’s partnership with a particularly special show for us – it will be celebrating its 37th year but the Hobby Manufacturers Association (HMA) demonstrates that it also marks ICHF Event’s 500th show. We organise over 21 shows a year CHA can expand the range of products at the Show while offering a in nine different venues and our 500th show is back where it all started.” marketplace for all things creative.” For information about trade stands contact Troy Bennett or Andrew For more information about CHA, membership or its CHA Morton at ICHF on +44 (0)1425 272711, E: [email protected], Conferences & Trade Shows, visit www.craftandhobby.org. www.ichf.co.uk/chsi.

30 craftfocus show news and reviews

CONSUMER SHOWS

Craft In Focus Festive Gift Fair Craft In Focus is returning The Festive Gift Fair, to be held at to Wisley from 24th - 28th the NEC Birmingham from 17th - 20th November to stage its Christmas November, provides inspiration and craft and design fair. This year thousands of new, clever and affordable the event will be held in floored gift ideas. “With 350 stalls brought and heated marquees and will together from all over the country, feature around 130 of the UK’s the variety of gifts is amazing and so finest professional contemporary craftworkers and artists working in there is always a surprise around every wood, glass, metal, textiles, ceramics and more. All exhibitors at Craft corner! No wonder, it’s considered In Focus events design and make the work that they display and are the most popular Christmas Shopping selected for their individuality and innovation in contemporary design, event in the Midlands,” said the as well as outstanding technical ability. The event is a must visit for organisers. Visitors can browse, shop anyone seeking something unusual and original and produced by an and enjoy the Christmassy atmosphere created by musicians and individual business that has a real passion for the work they create. entertainers throughout the show. “With so many bargains to be For further information contact Craft In Focus T: +44 (0)1622 747 found, drop your full bags at the Present Crèche while you continue 325 or visit: www.craftinfocus.com shopping” they added. For more information on exhibitors and visiting the fair, visit www.festivegiftfair.co.uk. dates for your diary We’ve got an at-a-glance listing of the major trade and consumer shows around the world over the next two months Terence Conran – The way OCTOBER we live now 13th - 15th - Belfast Creative Craft Show, Belfast The Design Museum is marking Sir 27th - 30th - Crafts for Christmas & Hobbycrafts, SECC, Glasgow Terence Conran’s 80th birthday with (organisers ICHF) a major exhibition that explores his NOVEMBER unique impact on contemporary life in 3rd - 6th - Crafts for Christmas & Hobbycrafts, NEC Birmingham Britain. Through his own design work, (organisers ICHF) and also through his entrepreneurial 3rd - 6th - Art Materials – Live, Birmingham flair, Conran, who founded Habitat, 4th - 6th - Cake International, Birmingham has transformed the look of the 10th - 12th - Belfast Creative Craft Show British home. This exhibition explores 16th - 20th - Ideal Home at Christmas show, London Conran’s impact whilst painting a (organisers Ideal Home) picture of his design approach and 17th - 20th - Festive Gift Fair, Birmingham (organisers Festive inspirations. It traces his career from postwar austerity through to the new Gift Fair) sensibility of the Festival of Britain in the 1950s, birth of the Independent 24th - 28th - Craft in Focus, Wisley, Hants (organisers Craft in Focus) Group with its flare for the avant-garde and the Pop Culture of the 1960s, Some dates may be subject to change. Please check with the show to the design boom of the 1980s on to the present day. organisers before planning your visit. Further details from T: +44 (0)20 7940 8790, www. designmuseum.org.

Art & Craft Fayre Show organiser contacts ASWS, www.asws.nl The Art, Needham Market, Suffolk CHA, www.craftandhobby.org 3rd Saturday each month Craft in Focus, T: +44 (0)1622 747 325 , www.craftinfocus.com 10 am – 2 pm Design Museum, T: +44 (0)20 7940 8790, www. designmuseum.org This is a regular monthly craft fayre, offering an eclectic mix of affordable, Emap Connect, www.spring fair.com individual, handmade objects ranging from jewellery to patchwork or felting. ICHF, T: +44 (0)1425 277 988, www.ichf.co.uk Maria Bennett from The Art & Craft Fayre explained: “This monthly fayre Koelnmesse Ausstellungen GMbH, T: +49 221 821 2458, gives independent, local crafters the opportunity to market their wares in www.hh-cologne.com an inspiring and friendly atmosphere, with like minded people on a regular Sincerely Yours, T: + 44(0)1634 686 823, www.sincerely-yours.co.uk monthly basis.” It takes place on the third Saturday of every month and Trident Exhibitions, T: +44 (0)1822 614 671, www.sccshows.co.uk displays a great variety of local arts and crafts. All stall holders make the Twisted Thread, E: [email protected], wares that they sell and the fayre prides itself on a 100 per cent handmade wwwmasseriadellazingara.com status. Entrance is £1 which includes tea.

32 craftfocus

★ ★★

a VIP trip to Craft, Hobby + Stitch★ Win! International ★

HOW TO ENTER To enter the competition, simply go to www.craftfocus.com, fi ll in your details and answer the following question. Closing date Europe’s largest trade show for the Getting there for entries is 28th November, 2011. craft industry, Craft Hobby + Stitch Direct fl ights from around the world and Q. At which venue is Craft Hobby + International is fast approaching and will connections from most major European cities Stitch 2012 held? be held from 19th-21st February, 2012 are available into Birmingham International at the NEC in Birmingham. Now in its Airport which is adjacent to the exhibition th 37 year, the show draws manufacturers, centre, while the unique ‘sky-rail’ monorail links Terms and Conditions distributors, wholesalers and retailers the NEC to the airport providing a stress-free 1. Competitions are not open to employees of KD from the creative art, craft, needlecraft transit from plane to exhibition. Birmingham Media Publishing Ltd (or their immediate families). and hobby sectors. The show offers a NEC is also at the heart of the motorway and 2. Entrants must be a member of the trade and over the age of 18. world-class forum at which to promote, rail network. 3. The competition closing date is subject to change sell, buy and network with industry without notice. colleagues from around the globe. THE PRIZE 4. The winner will be notifi ed in writing. Two lucky winners from this issue will each 5. The Editor’s decision is fi nal and no correspondence More than 250 creative craft exhibitors from receive a one-night bed and breakfast stay can be entered into. 6. The prize is not transferable and has no th across the globe will be attending the event for two people on Sunday 19 February, at monetary value. which will also offer visitors more than 150 the Hilton Birmingham Metropole hotel, in a 7. The prize covers the bed and breakfast room rate hours of free dedicated training, technique and double or twin room. In addition, the winners at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole only. Additional seminar-based sessions. The seminars require and their guests will be invited to attend a VIP expenses incurred while staying at the hotel are not included. no pre-booking, although to participate in the lunch on Monday 20th February at Craft Hobby 8. No purchase necessary, and there is no charge to free workshops, pre-booking is required. + Stitch International. enter via the website at www.craftfocus.com. The 2012 event will again feature a vibrant Just 10 minutes from Birmingham catwalk show, which was well received at the International Airport, the Hilton Birmingham Further information: 2011 show. This will run throughout all three Metropole Hotel is one of the UK’s largest To fi nd out more about CH+SI visit: days, inspiring buyers with stunning creations conference hotels. Located on the site of the www.chsi.co.uk. For more information on the from exhibitors. Buyers will also be able NEC, the hotel has excellent transport links to hotel, visit: www.hilton.co.uk/birminghammet to draw inspiration from, and discover new the city centre. The hotel’s three restaurants products in the Bright Sparks Pavilion which offer a selection of international cuisines, will be packed with innovative new designs while a fully equipped Living Well Health Club and creations from upcoming designers and and heated indoor swimming pool provides creative craft entrepreneurs. extensive leisure facilities. C

34 craftfocus knitting knit together The ever-expanding world of knitting holds many creative and commercial possibilities, as Becky Williams discovered

With adorable designs for all the Knitting has enjoyed an amazing resurgence over the last ﬁve years and its family, including this Baby Bunting popularity continues to grow as the market diversiﬁes. New products designed design, Spud & Chloë is a range for especially for beginners are bringing in fresh crafters, while new novelty yarns every day. are bringing exciting creative possibilities to those who are experienced in the Spud & Chloe craft. As word continues to spread among crafters about the joys of knitting and pattern choice gets more vast every day, we look at ways that retailers can Founded over a decade ago, Blue Sky Alpacas designs and diversify their existing product range, or take a leap into this world of sticks distributes luxury yarns, patterns and accessories for hand and string. knitting and crocheting. From go-to classics to exquisite specialty fibres and crave-worthy organic cottons, Blue Sky yarns seek the perfect marriage of fibre and twist to create fascinating textures and colours. Blue Sky’s patterns are designed to showcase these yarns to their best advantage. Spud & Chloë is a washable line of sweet yarns for real life. Available in Fine, Sweater and Outer, Spud & Chloë features spot-on colours, a super-soft hand and playful designs for everyone from grandma to the grandkids. And the bonus: the option of gentle machine washing makes Spud & Chloë a yarn for every day and every creation. The Spud & Chloë Be Sweet is home to exquisite yarns and blog, Spud Says!, is curated by Susan B. Anderson and contemporary patterns that are ideal ‘yarn features news, crafting tips and dozens of free patterns to candy’ for today’s modern knitter. keep crafters inspired. Further information: E: [email protected], www.blueskyalpacas.com, www.spudandchloe.com Be Sweet US-based yarn company, Be Sweet is home to exquisite yarns and Blue Sky Alpacas patterns are designed to contemporary patterns that are ideal ‘yarn candy’ for today’s modern showcase yarns to their knitter. The company offers socially and environmentally friendly best advantage, including fibers and products to fashionable consumers. These products evoke an this fab Apres Vest. individual style and help support community development around the world. The collection includes hand-knitting yarns and ready-made wearables such as scarves, shawls, hats, cardigans, and more. As well as its established luxury yarns, Be Sweet has just launched a new brand called Simply Sweet, a perfect ‘basics’ range. The range is starting with a catalog that doubles as the initial pattern booklet ($5 retail), and gorgeous yarn colours at $6/skein (wholesale). Be Sweet began when Nadine Curtis lived in Cape Town, South Africa and was inspired to work with job creation programs that give artisans the confidence and the means to support themselves and their families in an otherwise economically depressed region. The programs have grown to include over 200 crafters, comprised of mostly female members of the Xhosa Tribe who live in the Western and Eastern Cape regions. The employment is based on learning new marketable skills, sustainable growth, fair wages, and enjoyment. Further information: E: [email protected], www.besweetyarns.com

craftfocus 35 knit together Knitting accessories Viridian is a small, independent distributor, based in Bristol, specialising in sock yarn and knitting accessories. Colinette Time Tones is It off ers a fast and effi cient a selected capsule range service, aiming to get orders of fashion colours, for out within 48 hours using creating beautiful pieces a next-day delivery courier. like this ‘Acacia’ jacket. Viridian usually holds stock of all its products, so you’re not kept waiting! Viridian’s product range consists of Clover bamboo knitting needles and accessories; Knit Pro needles and accessories; Opal sock yarn; Eucalan – the no-rinse washing liquid; KB authentic knitting boards and the adjustable sock loom; and Rachel John Extreme Needles and Textiles. One of Viridian’s latest arrivals is Schafpate III, Graffi ti and Polar lights 6 ply from Opal Yarns. Some more exciting new products are from Knit Pro and include an ergonomic range of square needles, ‘Cubics’, plus the desirable Rose Sets of interchangeable needles and crochet hooks, both in leatherette boxes. Both Clover and Knit Pro have an extensive range of needles, crochet hooks and accessories to suit knitters and craft ers alike. Eucalan is an eco-friendly washing liquid that can be used for woollens as well as lingerie, swimwear, bedding, toys etc. Th ere are four fragrances, three of which use essential oils – eucalyptus, lavender, grapefruit and unscented – and all contain lanolin, which is a natural conditioner. Capsule colours Further information: David or Suzette T: +44 (0)117 300 5244, E: [email protected], www.viridianyarn.com Colinette Yarns’ new Calligraphy is a great new super-soft chunky weight hand-washable 100 percent wool yarn. Made from the very Angora from Adriafi l best quality fi bre and as soft as thistle-down, this 2 ply wool twist Adriafi l has been dealing in handknitting yarn loosely spirals along its length giving a full-bodied, but light yarns since 1911, producing top-quality and bouncy feel and texture when knitted. yarns while off ering and specialising Calligraphy is priced at £3.71 (ex VAT) per 100g hank and is in a very prompt shipping service. available in the full range of Colinette Yarns’ unique 127-strong Adriafi l is enjoying growing success colour palette. Calligraphy knits to all the designs in the existing in the British market, due to the top One Zero chunky pattern book, priced at £2.25. quality of their merinos and precious For this season, there’s also an exciting new and carefully selected yarns, the peculiar style of their fancy capsule range of fashion colours for this and other Colinette yarns, yarns, the excellent price/quality ratio, called Colinette Time Tones (take a look at and the beautiful and free patterns. Th e Carezza is a very popular angora-based yarn that www.colinette.com/timetones). Th is high-fashion shade distillation wide range of Adriafi l yarns gives knitters comes in a range of colours. of the full Colinette colour palette, available for the fi rst time an opportunity that cannot be missed, with ever this season, makes a great starting point for retailers when classic merinos, precious alpaca and cashmere, or fancy sparkly yarns considering which shades to stock this autumn. and wonderful printed baby yarns, or rarities like 2 ply, a DK mohair- Also new for retailers this year is the fi rst-ever two-tier Colinette based yarn and wonderful angora yarn in plain colours. stockists plan: the Colinette Capsule Collection at entry level, or Recently, Adriafi l have been experiencing increased requests for their the Premium Stockist scheme with its unique 12-strong benefi ts angora-based yarn, Carezza. Angora is shed from the angora rabbit package. Both schemes allow access to the new Time Tones and allows the creation of very soft and warm garments, and Carezza is dedicated area of the Colinette website to facilitate shade selection also suitable for fi nishing touch embroidery and inlay work. Th e ideal and online ordering. mixture in these yarn (70 percent angora, 10 percent wool, 20 percent Th ere’s never been a better time to become a Colinette polyammide) makes the thread strong and soft at the same time. Yarns stockist or to upgrade to the brand new Premium Adriafi l presents angora in the classic colours of white and cream, and Stockists scheme. in a whole range of classic and fashionable ones. Further information: T: +44 (0)1938 811898 Further information: T: 0039 0541 383706, E: adriafi l@adriafi l.com

36 craftfocus knit together

Th e glitz factor

Rico, the German-based supplier of handknit yarns and craft materials, has enjoyed outstanding growth since its introduction into the UK market. Th anks to its fl air for colour and creativity, its yarn ranges have appealed to knitters nationwide. HiyaHiya needles Th e Company’s reputation has been largely gained following New to the world of the launch of a succession of highly creative and innovative yarns, interchangeable needles including the phenomenally successful Pom Pom, Can Can and is HiyaHiya Bamboo Loopy, which have captured knitters’ imaginations – and which has Interchangeable Needles. led to Rico scooping the prestigious 2011 Craft Business award for Th e set features keyless the most innovative supplier. screw-on connections For the coming season, Rico is adding a touch of ‘bling’ to these and swivel cables, made trend-setting leaders, as both Can Can and Loopy yarns will be with high-quality bamboo off ered with the addition of a bright glitz eff ect. Th ese yarns are impregnated with resin, sure to fi nd a ready market as they come complete with an easy- making HiyaHiya needles knit pattern to create a fabulous and unique scarf, which is printed the strongest and smoothest on each ball band. bamboo needles available. In addition to these amazing special-eff ect yarns, the Rico Th e 4in or 5in small set range also includes a collection of classic and fashion yarns, many includes 7 sets of tips in of which incorporate exclusive natural fi bres to maximise their sizes from 2.75-5mm. Th e handle and visual appeal. Rico’s new autumn 2011 collection 5in large set includes six sets includes new developments that combine exclusivity with of tips in sizes from 5.5-10mm. Tip length is aff ordability. New Essentials Cashlana DK is a superb blend of 80 approximately 4in or 5in. Each set includes a practical and portable percent Italian extra fi ne Merino, produced by the world’s leading brocade case, needle tips and four cables (two 26in, one 34in and one spinner of luxury fi bres, and 20 percent super fi ne Cashmere. 42in cable). Each set also includes a set of needle grips. Th e result is a yarn of outstanding quality, which off ers a truly For further information: contact Qianer Huang at Shanghai HIYA Co. wonderful handle and appearance. Ltd, E: [email protected], www.HiyaHiya.com or Also scheduled for an autumnal launch is Essentials Alpaca, www.HiyaHiyaNorthAmerica.com which comes with a choice of DK or Chunky weights. In each case, the blend is 50 percent superfi ne alpaca and 50 percent Highland wool. Th e result is a unique combination of luxury handle and aff ordability. Autumn at ArtYarn Further information: T: +44 (0)203 024 9009, www.rico-design.de ArtYarn Trading Ltd is a supplier of quality hand-knitting yarns, Rico’s trend-setting CanCan yarn is now available with needles and accessories to a bright glitzy edge, with a the craft trade. It is the UK pattern on the ball band. Distributor of Lang Yarns of Switzerland, and Schoppel- Wolle and Addi needles from Germany, featuring fabulous fi bres and the latest in continental knitwear design. ArtYarn have various new additions for the autumn/winter season 2011/12, including Lang Yarns’ autumn/winter collection, with 10 new yarns and four new ‘Fatto a Mano’ magazines with designs for all the family. Th e ‘FaM’ Vintage 184 pattern book from Lang Yarns features 68 designs for ladies, men and the home, using a selection of yarns, including the lovely Donegal Irish tweed and sumptuous superchunky Astrakan. In keeping with current trend for extremes, the new yarns range from the fi nest Merino 400 Lace to the giant knit Maxima. See more at www.langyarns.com Th ere are more new additions from Schoppel-Wolle, including a wonderful new random colour-eff ect, hand-painted sock yarn, Wunderklecks, plus new colours in the ever-popular Zauberball yarn. Further information: Richard or Katy Sparrow, T: +44 (0)1529 240510, E: [email protected], www.artyarn.co.uk

38 craftfocus Sock Yarn Specialist

Eucalan – the no rinse delicate washing New In from the USA - liquid. Available in 4 fragrances; Kb Authentic Knitting Eucalyptus, Lavender, Grapefruit and Boards and Sock Loom. Natural Unscented. Made with essential Makes knitting Easy oils and a touch of lanolin, which acts and Fun... as a natural conditioner, anti-static and dust-mite deterrent.

Knitting Boards and Looms

www.viridianyarn.com | [email protected] tel: 0117 300 5244 knit together

Impressive endurance is one of the strengths of the new cords of Prym’s circular knitting pins.

Quality tools

With new, quality knitting pins, crochet hooks and accessories, Prym sets the stage for unforgettable knitting and crocheting pleasure. While the circular knitting pins of nickel-plated brass wow the fans with sheer brilliance and a smooth look, the circular bamboo knitting pins are deliberately more natural. Th e ensemble of well-rounded stars is enhanced by additional lengths and gauges. Impressive endurance is one of the strengths of the new cords of the circular knitting pins: antistatic, tear-resistant and breakproof, they merge seamlessly with the needle body. Meanwhile, the crochet hooks for thread and wool step into the limelight with a soft handle and ergonomic poise. A fi rm grip and guaranteed crocheting pleasure without tiring make for a grand entrance. This season, Coats are Further information: Coats Craft s UK T: +44 (0)1325 394227, introducing SMC Select yarns to the UK market, with or Habico Limited T: +44 (0)113 2631500. plenty of pattern support.

Knits for a King of knitting new season King Cole off ers a large range Coats Craft s off ers of knitting yarns, patterns and premium quality products accessories to the retail trade. Th e across all sectors of range covers economy products the craft ing sphere. Its and high-end natural fi bres, handknitting brands but it is best regarded as a ‘middle include Rowan, Patons, market’ supplier. Regia and SMC Select. Th e company generates Brand new for consumer interest by investing in handknitting this knitting magazine advertising and autumn/winter 2011 endeavours to feed all the interest is the exciting new back to local stockists. However, premium range SMC there are naturally gaps in the Select. Drawing pattern support from company’s distribution that need such designer favourites as Sarah Hatton, amongst others, to be fi lled by good retailers. the range carries a contemporary, cosmopolitan feel and the King Cole has an excellent collection is only enhanced by the premium quality of the reputation for service, too. Retail yarns behind the designs. customers are regularly updated Th is autumn, the team at Coats Craft s will be launching by one of 10 UK salespeople and a strong internal team ensures prompt delivery. some very exciting mid-season products on the handknitting King Cole is also active in the appropriate trade shows, both in the UK and side. Perfect for Christmas will be the new ‘one ball projects’ internationally, in order to ensure good communication with the market. – a selection of beautiful scarf and accessory designs, all using Caroline Symonds from King Cole said: “King Cole believes that the just one ball of yarn. Th e patterns for these will be available relationship between ourselves and retailers is a partnership that can only for free, both on the ball band and also at www.coatscraft s. work if it is a mutually benefi cial – we believe that we work hard to make that co.uk for the SMC designs, and www.knitrowan.com for the possible. King Cole off ers innovation and value for money in products, as well Rowan designs. as commitment and reliability in service.” Further information: T: +44 (0)1484 681881, Further information: T: +44 (0)1535 650230, E: [email protected]. E: [email protected], www.coatscraft s.co.uk

40 craftfocus

Poppy Patch is a beautiful yarn from Knit Collage, embellished with ribbon, ﬂ ower knit together appliqués and strips of fabric.

Unique yarns Knit Collage yarns are vibrant handspun creations that refl ect a curious and optimistic approach to the world. Bits of ribbons, sequins, fl ower appliqués and strips of fabrics are spun together with brightly coloured wool, mohair and sparkling Angelina fi bres. Even though the raw materials are the same, no two skeins are completely alike because of their handmade nature. Founder Amy Small says: “All of our spinning takes place in India, where we recently moved our operation. With the hope of creating work for uneducated women in Punjab, we spent countless hours over the past six months teaching them how to craft the yarns on traditional spinning wheels. Th rough much patience and hard work, more and more women are slowly becoming spinning experts. We now proudly employ 46 women there. Th e process we shared with them is enormously time intensive. To spin one skein of our Gyspy Garden yarn, it takes about two hours. Th is does not include any of the other steps involved, including the carding, Yarn Harlot quality check and packaging. Th rough this laborious process, we hope to create beautiful, unique yarns, and better the lives of the women who craft Andrews McMeel Publishing, LLC (AMP) is a leading them along the way.” publisher of general nonfi ction trade, cookbook, craft , Further information: T: +1 (610) 999 5063, E: [email protected], gift , and humour books, publishing as many as 200 www.knitcollage.com new titles annually. Each season, AMP introduces exciting new titles to its craft line, which continues to Martingale Publishing has a reputation for quality craft grow in popularity as the craft /DIY movement gains titles including Sock Club and The Big Book of Monsters. momentum. A generation of younger, hipper craft ers is emerging, so AMP’s craft line oft en mirrors what’s hot in popular culture, with titles like the newest from blogging phenomenon Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, All Wound Up. In ‘All Wound Up: Th e Yarn Harlot Writes for a Spin’, Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, best-selling author and self-proclaimed Yarn Harlot, talks about knitting, parenting, friendship, and even crocheting in essays that are at times touching, oft en hilarious, and always entertaining. Fans of her blog and knitters everywhere are sure to enjoy this all-new collection Inspiring books of tales of the woollen and silky skein, which follow Pearl-McPhee’s previous exploits chronicled in Yarn Martingale & Company is an industry-leading publisher of books for knitters, Harlot and Free-Range Knitter. quilters and other craft ers. Since its founding in 1976, the company has sold New in the wildly successful Pocket Posh line nearly 20 million books worldwide. Th e 100 percent employee-owned company is of books, ‘POCKET POSH Tips for Knitters’ by staff ed with enthusiastic people dedicated to their individual craft s as well as to the Jayne and Jodie Davis is a useful reference guide corporate mission, which is providing quality products and service to for knitters, which goes beyond knit one, purl two, inspire creativity. to off er helpful tips and tricks on selecting yarn, Th e company works closely with independent shop owners, forming refi ning patterns and completing projects. partnerships to help these business people succeed. In addition to outstanding Perfectly sized for purse or pocket, ‘Pocket Posh discounts, various marketing programs, and the informative free Shop Talk for Knitters’ features fashionable cover art and an newsletter, Martingale & Company supports retailers by off ering incentives to elastic band closure. consumers who buy books at local shops. To view AMP’s entire craft line, visit Martingale & Company books are distinguished by carefully edited instructions www.andrewsmcmeel.com/home-craft s.html. with detailed illustrations and how-to photos. Th e company prides itself on For orders in the UK, contact Simon & Schuster superior customer service and its reputation for quality books, including Th e Big UK Ltd, T: +44 (0)141 306 3100, Book of Monsters, Grammy’s Favorite Knits for Baby, Sock Club and Successful E: [email protected]. Lace Knitting. Further information: Dorothy Lisherness T: +1 (800) 426 3126, E: [email protected], www.martingale-pub.com.

42 craftfocus

CAPTURE THE MAGIC OF CHRISTMAS WITH DUFEX

Seeking some sparkling Christmas inspiration for you and your customers? Then take a look at the fantastic Christmas designs from Dufex Limited.

There is no better way to capture the magic of Christmas than with the amazing sense of light and movement created by Dufex. Alongside our best selling stickers, card blanks and decoupage comes 12 brand new Christmas Dufex Die Cut decoupage sheets. We are also proud to present over 20 new Reddy Creative Cards Christmas Paper Die Cut Decoupage. For more information call 01462 410070, e mail [email protected] or visit www.dufexcrafts.com. knitting knit together

Jazz it up Th e South West Trading Company is a successful producer of fi ne yarns, including their renowned SOYSILK, a fi bre made from the proteins in Soy, a renewable resource. With something for all the family, Thomas B Ramsden is the parent Jazz is the newest group of Wendy, Peter Pan, Robin yarn in the SWTC and Twilleys of Stamford yarns. Collection and the fi rst to be made in the USA. Th is British traditions luxurious yarn Th omas B Ramsden is the parent comes in 8 colours company of Wendy, Peter Pan, Robin and is the perfect String Me Along is a beautiful carry-along yarn and Twilleys of Stamford yarns. carry along to jazz with petite sequins that will dress up any yarn in Th e Wendy brand is one of the oldest up anything! Retail your inventory. surviving names in British handknitting and its stores are fi nding great broad range of yarns and designs cater for the enthusiastic and success pairing Jazz with slower-selling yarns in their stock, dedicated home knitter. Th e collection encompasses pure, natural while creating exciting, shimmery projects that their customers fi bre yarns in its classic collection and multi-fi bre complex blends in love. A vest pattern is free to stores with the purchase of Jazz, its fashion collection. which is available in 1oz skeins and sold fi ve per pack. String Me Th e Peter Pan range for babies, toddlers and children has a Along from SWTC is also a carry along yarn. Like their popular strong fashion and classic element, and is probably the fi nest baby sequined yarn called Yang, String Me Along showcases petite handknitting, design and yarn collection in the world. sequins, which will dress up any yarn in your inventory. It’s also Within the group, Twilleys of Stamford has a unique identity. Th e fun for hand spinners and weavers who want to add a bit of bling yarn and design collection has expanded with the introduction of to their projects. String Me Along is available in 20 colours and the ‘Freedom’ collection, but Twilleys still maintains its tradition of is sold in packs of fi ve cones each. A sample pack of two cones in creating high-quality knitting kits for beginners and children. each of the 20 colours is also available. Further information: E: Th e fi nal element of the portfolio is the value Robin Collection, [email protected], or visit www.SOYSILK.com, where there is a consisting of a wide variety of high-quality classic and fashion yarns, wholesale merchant area and shopping cart for your convenience. principally using acrylic fi bre to off er superb quality, fantastic value Th e talent behind SWTC, Jonelle Beck-Raffi no, also has a new for knitters on a budget. book out. Socks a la Carte Colorwork by Jonelle Raffi no and Austen Ramsden, MD, said: “A unique feature of Ramsdens yarns Katherine Cade (September 2011) is the third book in the Socks is that the majority of our yarns are still manufactured to a large a la Carte series, and teaches readers how to design original sock extent in the UK at our Guiseley Mill. It is noteworthy that our patterns with colourwork options. By choosing from a variety of balling plant is one of the biggest in northern Europe.” sock cuff , body, heel and toe pattern combinations, knitters will With its collections, Th omas B Ramsden has one of the broadest, be able to create thousands of combinations while learning about high-quality handknitting and craft collections available from sock construction and achieving the perfect fi t. You can see a one company anywhere in the world and the company off ers the digital preview of this colorful book here: http://www.scribd.com/ discerning knitter a superb range of quality designs and yarns. doc/59880250/Socks-a-la-Carte-Colorwork-by-Jonelle-Raffi no- Further information: National Sales & Marketing Manager Austin and-Katherine-Cade. Further information: Moff att T: +44 (0)7823 320989, E: austinmoff [email protected], E: [email protected], www.sewstitchglue.com www.tbramsden.co.uk

craftfocus 45 knit together Practical Publishing is launched ‘Knit Now’ magazine, dedicated to stylish accessories and quick knits like gloves and hats.

DMC Creative World has introduced Natura Just Cotton yarn in 34 shades and is offering introductory deals. Knit Now Knit Now is the brand new launch from craft magazine A world of creativity specialist Practical Publishing. It is a unique monthly DMC Creative World Ltd off er Natura Just Cotton yarn for crochet and knitting. title focusing on stylish accessories and quick knits for NATURA Just Cotton is a stunning range of 100 percent cotton threads with a today’s knitter. matt fi nish. Th e long, regular fi bres give the yarn a soft ness and strength with Responding to the market demand for a knitting title that a quality that is a pleasure to work with. Available in 50g balls (approx 155m), delivers up-to-date, on-trend inspiration for newcomers, RRP £3.50 per ball, NATURA Just Cotton is a versatile thread that is especially beginners and intermediate-level knitters alike, Knit Now suitable for clothing due to its soft touch, high absorption and durability to will provide readers with all the know-how and inspiration to frequent washing. It is also perfect for creating decorative accessories. Th e create individual and stylish accessories for themselves, their range off ers a mix of 34 vibrant and subtle colours where two or more colours friends and family and for their home. combine well together to off er a variety of thicknesses, textures and eff ects. Every issue will include exclusive patterns with clear DMC off er introductory deals that include free consumer pattern booklets to step-by-step instructions, interviews with up-and-coming promote the yarn. and established designers, an insightful look at all the latest Further information: T: +44 (0) 116 275 4000, E: [email protected], high-street fashion trends and how to recreate the look plus, www.dmccreative.co.uk inspiration pages, competitions, giveaways and exclusive free gift s worth a minimum of £5. Further information: www.knitnowmagazine.com

Knitted Simplicity Well known as paper pattern experts, Simplicity have been branching out into trimmings and essential haberdashery items for the last few years. “Th e trend to craft , whether it’s to knit, crochet or sew, continues to grow so we decided to bring together some well-known brand names under one umbrella, making it easier for craft ers to fi nd the supplies they need to fulfi ll their creative desires,” explained Jackie Braid of Simplicity Creative Group. Th e extensive range includes knitting and crochet needles/hooks, scissors, quilting templates, fashion buckles of every shape and size, iron- on mending patches, unique sewing notions, appliqués, no-sew pocket monsters for kids, bindings and a fabulous collection of fashion trims. Mainstay of the knitting and crochet section are needles, crochet hooks and knitting accessories made from coloured aluminium or plain steel – providing functionality and fashion. Particularly popular are the afghan hook, loopy scarf tool (which is kid friendly too and comes with full instructions) and circular needle sets with interchangeable components. Of course, there are also essentials like stitch counters, etc, and some fun items such as punch needle set, pom pom makers, bloom loop to make fl owers and a yarn daisy to wind balls from skeins. Further information: T: +44 (0)161 480 8734, E: [email protected].

46 craftfocus

The UK’s leading magazine for the craft industry

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

Cwww.craftfocus.com papercrafting

adventures in papercraft ing

Louise Fisher investigates the exciting world of papercrafting... PAPER It’s only natural that with the rise in interest of season. Jennifer agrees: “Products that appeal craft in general, that papercrafts would benefi t. to beginner crafters or that make crafting Flying high Papercraft is possibly one of the broadest easier are always going to do well. We recently Butterfl y Garden papercraft sheets ranges of crafts (and as a result, one of the launched the Big Shot Starter Kit as a way are perfect to brighten up those dull most diffi cult to write about and fi t into a for people to get everything they need for winter days and are ideal for retailers few editorial pages!). Just some of the various cardmaking, scrapbooking and even home looking to stock some bright fresh sectors of papercrafting include embossing, décor in the one set” she said. designs ready for spring. “As with all decoupage, stamping, origami, scrapbooking, China Butterfl y designs these sheets are card making and stickers. Consequently, the printed in the UK on high quality paper range of products consumers need can be Twist and fold (150gsm) and card (250gsm)” said Sarah quite daunting. Here we take a look at some “By adding simple actions such as folding, for China Butterfl y. Th e decoupage, of the general areas that have seen defi nite bending, twisting and cutting on a sheet of topper and sentiment sheets are all surges of interest in recent times and products paper, a two dimensional material transforms bagged individually, the backing papers that are set to be ‘hot stuff’ in the coming into a three dimensional creation. Paper folding are bagged in pairs and each pack festive season. does not require any special tools or facilities, has an RRP of just £1, also available Consumers will be wanting to make their but simply a structural idea. Folding paper is is the complete collection containing own greeting cards and decorations for the great fun and seeing it’s transformation into all fi ve Butterfl y Garden sheets with Christmas period, so now is a great time to a new form gives a surprise element to the an RRP of just £3.50. For more get prepared and stock up on some popular designer and user.” information contact China Butterfl y on or specialist products. It seems that trends in Rentaro Nishimura, Designer, Graduate of Product T: +44 (0)1704 831708 or email info@ the world of paper craft tend to follow those Design at The London Metropolitan University. chinabutterfl y.co.uk. of fashion. Jennifer Lloyd-Hancock of Ellison www.rentaro.co.uk Europe Ltd explains: “This year when vintage and lace were big in the fashion world, they also became increasingly popular in paper Monster collections crafting. It seems quite likely that the trends Th ere are many types of paper and some are for the latter half of the year will follow the more suited to particular projects than others. traditional movement of fashion towards Newcomers to the craft s will be looking for basic muted colours, richer tones and high-end supplies and multipacks of paper with lots of embellishments.” As well as moving with the variation in them. Nikki from Nikki Sivils said: fashions, papercrafting (as with all craft) follow “Collection kits have become a big trend in trends according to yearly events such as scrapbooking, for one reasonable price you can Easter, Halloween and Mother’s Day. “Winter get all the papers and co-ordinating products and particularly Christmas will always evoke in one package.” Th e Sivils’ My Lil’ Monster collection is perfect the use of deep reds, browns and greens with for children who like to play with and create things out of paper. Th ere are all sorts of accents of silver and gold,” says Jennifer. monsters, with a colour palette of bright red and green, great for children, so that users Winter also tempts new crafters into the recreate their own monster family. Further info - Nikki Sivil, T: + (001) 417 838 0996, fold, with keen hands wanting to make their E: [email protected], www.nikkisivil.com. own decorations, tags and cards for the festive

craftfocus 49 adventures in papercraft ing

EQUIPMENT

A cut above the rest It’s the dies that count Along with paper, the right Marketing Assistant, Jennifer Hancock from Ellison Europe Ltd high quality equipment makes told us about their dies: “One of the quickest and easiest ways consumers’ lives so much easier. to get professional looking yet handcraft ed paper elements is by Xcut is a brand well known for die-cutting. At Sizzix we have a variety of diff erent machines and its high quality yet aff ordable die-cutting technologies that cater to all skill levels and craft ing products. Its A3 self-healing styles. One of our most popular machines is the Big Shot, a hand cutting mat is printed with operated roller machine that makes producing multiple die-cuts a useful measuring grid and in a huge variety of materials easy for anyone.” It is the actual dies comes with a convenient carrying that do the cutting and these come in an almost endless array of handle. Katy Godbeer, Creativity magazine diff erent designs and technologies. “Our bestselling technology says: “Th e grid on the Xcut cutting mat is is our Bigz; these are steel rule blade dies that will cut everything ideal for centering and positioning a project from paper and card stock to leather and chipboard.” Th e latest accurately, and I love the carry handle at the top” releases from Sizzix include Bigz dies As well as the cutting mat, Xcut produce soft in classic Christmas designs, grungy grip non-stick stainless steel scissors. Docraft s Tim Holtz alterations designs and even demonstrator Clare Bennet told us: “Th e soft vintage Valentine shapes. “Th is year grip fi nger holes mean makes cutting for long we’ve gone for a traditional look for periods easy, whilst the size and precision makes many of the Christmas dies that echoes them great for cutting card and an intricate piece of decoupage. Th e the trend for ‘make do and mend’. Our non-stick blades makes them good for cutting double-sided tape too.” latest releases, Framelits, are also perfect To fi nd out more, contact Docraft s, T: +44 (0)1202 811000, for novice craft ers, as the wafer thin dies E: info@docraft s.com, www.docraft s.biz. make cutting multiple sizes of the same image really simple.” Further info Set to impress T: +44 (0)844 499 8181 (within UK) or +44 (0)845 345 2277 (outside UK), “Th e patented new Craft Dragon E: [email protected], ImPress enables home craft ers to hot www.ellison.com. foil stamp, rubber stamp, die cut and embellish with amazing clarity and precision, on a wide array of surfaces Practical Pens... using just one machine” promises Craft Pens are a large part of papercraft ing and Letraset is a UK Dragon MD Jason Nash. “Because it’s so brand is renowned for its high quality, durable marker versatile, the ImPress off ers terrifi c value pens. To meet pubic demand the company has extended for money, and gives professional results, time its range of FlexMarkers to incorporate 51 new colours. aft er time. In fact a number of the participants Originally, Letraset’s markers were mainly used by in our early trials have used the machine to professional designers and illustrators, “It wasn’t long before turn their passion for craft ing craft ers caught on and realised into their own small business,” they could get professional said Jason. Everything, from colour at a reasonable price the machine parts, packaging too,” says Letraset’s Marketing and support services has been sourced locally Executive, Paul Lewin. With or nearby Staff ordshire. Based on a multi-functional, modular system, the its new fl exible brush nib, the machine has easily interchangeable heads and off ers an unparalleled level of FlexMarker provides consumers functionality. One of these ‘heads’ is and craft ers with excellent the exciting new Flexiblock, a simple control for colouring small attachment tool designed specifi cally areas as well and larger spaces. for ink stamping. To fi nd out more contact For more information, contact Letraset UKLtd, T: +44 (0)1233 Craft Dragon on T: +44 (0)1782 624421, E: enquiries@letraset. 658333, E: enquiries@craft dragon. com, www.fl exmarker.info. com, www.craft dragon.com

50 craftfocus adventures in papercraft ing

EQUIPMENT

Surge in 3D Faye Channon at Craft style Products has seen a defi nite surge in the interest in 3D items in papercraft ing. “3D is so popular in card making whether it be decoupage or matting and layering, we have decided to take it to the next level by creating 3D Christmas trees. Customers can use their imagination to decorate the tree, write their message on it and then send it to their family and friends. Th e results will certainly look diff erent compared to plain cards on the mantelpiece!” Th e tree works by slotting two halves Stuck on you together to create a tree that stands on its own as a card or decoration. To Stickers are a fun, simple way to start papercraft ing fi nd out more contact Craft style Products, T: +44 (0)1924 411564, without any expert knowledge. Jenny Kearly, director of E: info@craft styleproducts.co.uk, www.craft styleproducts.co.uk. Craft Creations says: “Th e popularity of papercraft ing and peel-off stickers is threefold. It is led by the Handmade is bang on trend ingenuity of craft ers, the diff erent ways they fi nd to use Penny Black is an American based company a product and, of course, their willingness to share these specialising in card making supplies that stocks a ideas with others. Many of these ideas are then taken wide selection of rubber stamps and stickers perfect a step further by the next craft er, one idea sparking off for Christmas card and tag making. Consumers another. Also the crossover between scrapbooking and will fi nd they’re able to create greetings cards in card making has excited both camps, with card making minutes with sets of complementing stickers. Penny becoming more and more like making a scrapbook Black’s Winter Fantasy pack (pictured) is printed page.” Th e sheer amount of designs for stickers available in colour and is easy to use. Sue Sandler of Penny means that all paper craft ers can fi nd something they Black said: “Th e handmade look is bang on trend like to suit their projects. “We off er more than 700 and consumers love the speed and ease at which designs in multiple colour choices, usable either as a they can create personalised projects in minutes.” complementary motif or as a main feature on a card or Further infomation from Penny Black Inc, page” she said. Further info Craft Creations Ltd, T: +(001) 510 849 1883, E: [email protected], T: +44 (0)1992 781909, E: trade@craft creations.com, www.pennyblackinc.com www.craft creations.com.

Sweet new Christmas designs STAMPING Alongside producing stickers for paper craft , Penny Black Life in characters also specialise in rubber Stamping is a popular stamps. One of Penny Black’s papercraft in the winter. Ryan newest releases for Christmas at Creative Expressions told us: 2011 is a wood-mounted “Character ranges have been, stamp, called ‘Fashionably and continue to be, very good Wrapped’. It’s easy to stamp, sellers in rubber stamping. colour and embellish with Our Tatty Button range has this lovely fashion girl for performed very strongly for our retailers this year, as a result we have recently beautiful, unique greeting launched the second wave of designs as part of the Tatty Button Christmas cards. Susan Sandler at range” He said. Th e collection is a range of stamps centred around a quirky Penny Black says: “Th e mixing character called Tatty Button. Th e range also includes accessory stamp sets, of elegant with whimsical off ers artists endless creative which feature embellishing designs and sentiments. expression while giving a project added visual interest, To fi nd out more contact Creative Expressions, T: +44 (0)1536 481778, layers and dimensions.” Further info Penny Black Inc, E: [email protected], www.creative-expressions.uk.com. T: +(001) 510 8491883, E: [email protected], www.pennyblackinc.com.

52 craftfocus We are an Edinburgh based rubber stamp company who deal directly with retailers.

Brand New Christmas Cling Stamps with a Scottish theme. Nicely packaged and mounted on kling-on for use with an acrylic block.

FREE delivery for orders over £50.00 (net of VAT).

You can view our range of products on our website www.craftystamps.com Tel/Fax: 0131 221 9440 [email protected] Crafty Stamps, 92 Grove Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8AP adventures in papercraft ing

EMBOSSING

WOW! Embossing Powder is the market leader in embossing powders – a market that is certainly going through a revival at present. Embossing has become very ‘on trend’ in the world of paper craft ing and craft ers have been coming up with new and innovative ways of using the powders. “We have seen a remarkable increase in demand and not only in card making, but scrapbooking and beading too. Customers that specialise in mixed media have become a large part of our business,” explains Amanda Fletcher. “Embossing powder is the must-have addition to any craft er’s stash and with WOW! off ering retailers such amazing deals, what are you waiting for?” she added. To fi nd out more contact WOW! Embossing Powders, T: +44 (0)870 777 8782, E: [email protected], www.wowembossingpowder.co.uk.

BOOK REVIEWS Copic Colouring A fabulous resource for papercrafters looking to ﬁ ll in stamps, this book includes the different colouring “Papercrafting has real staying power within the craft arena, techniques associated with paper crafting. It is a because people will always want to create something that useful guide to the colour system, compatible inks looks good, is achievable by people of all skill levels and and papers and includes step by step tutorials on yet has that handcrafted feel they desire,” says Jennifer a wide range of designs to inspire the keen crafter. at Ellison Europe Ltd. To help with this, its a good idea to Published by Annie’s Attic, RRP £10.99, it is available also stock some ‘how to’ style books on the craft products from Search Press (ISBN: 978-1596353763) you sell. Here we’ve reviewed some exciting recently published books... The Art of Papercutting By Deborah Schneebali Morrell Wild & Wonderful Origami This book includes a good mix of 35 paper craft projects By Nari Ono and Roshin Ono that are each exciting, fresh and inspiring and are suitable for This book has all the instructions you need to create skilled or beginner crafters. Instructions are easy to follow and an origami zoo, bringing paper to life. Make a dolphin, peppered with great advice throughout the book. This makes blowﬁ sh and even a sea turtle using a lovely addition to any paper crafters collection. Published by just your hands and a selection of Cico Books, RRP £12.99, it is available in the UK from Cico papers. Each of the 50 designs also has Books (ISBN: 978-1-907563799 a skill rating so it’s easy to see which are manageable. Published by Cico Tea Bag Folding Through the Seasons Books, RRP £12.99, it is available in By Sharon M Reinhart the UK from Cico Books (ISBN: 978- A small but useful book (don’t be fooled by its size) 1-907563-56-0). it contains very practical information and is a how- to guide for teabag folding. It shows you how to create a wide range of card designs that are suitable for any occasion, from Easter, to birthdays and Pop-Up Cards Christmas. Published by Annie’s Attic in paperback, By Jo F Mathieson RRP £7.99, it is available in the UK from Search This hardback features 19 fun and Press (ISBN: 978-1596-3-5360-2). quirky pop-up cards that cover all occasions and make use of Quick and easy papercrafts cutting, folding, stamping, inking A fun, comprehensive guide to paper crafts, with 320 and embossing skills. This is a great, packed pages that include decoupage, origami and practical book for crafters looking cards to cut outs and book making, this book explores to take their creations to the next techniques over 100 easy to make projects that take exciting level - 3D crafting! Published by New Holland advantage of readily available papers. Published by Lark Publishers Ltd, RRP £14.99, it is available from Hew Holland Books in paperback, RRP £12.99, from GMC Distribution Publishers (ISBN: 978-1847730763). (ISBN: 978-1600-5-9820-3).

54 craftfocus Presents a One-Stop Shop for all your Quilling needs

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Visit our website to see the wide range of fabrics and stencils at www. hobbyfunukltd.co.uk or see us at the following show:

NEC Birmingham 3rd-6th November 2011

Or visit one of our stockists near you. See our website for details.

Free P+P with code HF0911

www.hobbyfunukltd.co.uk An exciting new British company with a fabulous range of cling Tel: 07763 798 776 stamps, manufactured in the UK to a very high standard Wrenbury House, 75 Wrenbury Rd, Northampton NN5 6XZ www.ladybugcraftsink.co.uk stylish paper plate lampshade Create a designer lampshade out of paper plates… Elegant, chic, retro, cool, it’s simple to make using a Dremel glue gun

MATERIALS: Dremel Glue Gun and 7mm clear glue sticks TIP : With a simple lamp base 50 (approximately) paper plates, 18 cm diameter * You can gauge the and normal bulb, this lovely Brushed chrome stick lamp base approximate number lampshade will become a Drum lampshade, cream, 13 cm high x 15cm diameter of plates you will need favourite bedside or living Steel rule, pencil and scissors for your particular room light. Bone folder or the back of a table knife shade by measuring its Ramekin dish or other circumference; 1cm equals one plate. STEPS TO MAKE

1. Fold one of the paper plates it, matching the curved edges. 3. Insert a clear glue stick into 4. Repeat the process, aligning in half and burnish along the Place the steel rule along the the Dremel Glue Gun and subsequent plates adjacent crease using the bone folder or straight edge and use the bone turn it to the cool setting. to the previous one, working the back of the table knife. Place folder to score a line down the Rest the shade on the dish, your way around the shade the ruler 5 mm away from and whole plate. Repeat the process top edge up. Apply a line of and ensuring that the plates parallel to the fold and use the on the opposite side of the glue up the centre of the 1cm remain vertical and level at the pencil to mark the line. Keeping plate so that two parallel lines wide panel on the first plate top and bottom of the shade. the plate folded, use the scissors are scored down the centre of then position the folded plate Repeat the process until the to cut along the line marked. the whole plate, approximately vertically on the shade so shade is completely covered. 1cm apart. Fold in the semi- that one of the folded edges Fix the shade onto the base; 2. Lay another paper plate circles, wrong sides together, aligns with the vertical seam add the bulb and your lamp right side down and place one and burnish the scored lines to of the lampshade. is complete. C of the semi circles on top of achieve a sharp crease.

NOTES: assists in the positioning of the plates at a Further information • The circumference of the plates must consistent height around the shade. If the For more information on Dremel projects be a little larger than the height of the dimensions of your shade and plates differ go to Virtual Press Office located at lampshade. to those given, choose a dish that allows www.dremel.co.uk For Dremel videos: • The ramekin dish is used to rest the the plates to be positioned centrally on the www.youtube.com/user/DremelEurope. lampshade on during the gluing process; it shade when the shade is resting on it.

56 craftfocus competition ★★ Win! gunning for success With a glue gun – so much is possible. Add colour glue sticks, glitter sticks and more and you’re onto★ a winner!

The Dremel Glue Gun 930 is aimed at the hobbyist and creative crafter. Its features include drip-control, a five minute heat-up time, a fixed precision nozzle and silicone nozzle protection tip - as well as having an extendable plastic stand, a stable base and an ergonomic handle. The clever Glue Gun 930 has a dual temperature facility of 105 and 165 degrees centigrade which allows gluing and decorating across a wide variety of materials from glass, wood, textiles, plastics, paper and cardboard. The Dremel colour glue sticks are an exciting addition to the Hobby range when used to embellish decorative crafts and create 3D relief designs. For example, a beautiful faux wax seal pressed with a rubber or metal stamp adds instant charm to invitations, table place cards, announcements and awards certificates, as well as envelopes, gift wrapping and tags, or even your own wine bottles! There’s also a range of accessories and attachments for the Dremel Glue Gun. Plain glue sticks (7 and 11mm), wood glue sticks for specialised woodworking applications, glitter sticks to add sparkle to creative designs, solid colour glue sticks for work in 3D and a special glue work pad which protects projects from dirt, is heat resistant and cleans easily - allowing you to remove glue spills from the pad and protect your furniture.

THE PRIZES We have 10 Dremel Glue Gun 930s to give away, complete with one pack of every accessory - worth over £50 each!

Terms and Conditions HOW TO ENTER 1. Competitions are not open to employees of KD Media Publishing Ltd To enter the competition, simply visit www.craftfocus.com, fill in your (or their immediate families). details and answer the following question by 30th November 2011. 2. Entrants must be a member of the trade and over the age of 18. Q: At what temperatures does the Dremel Glue Gun 930 work? C 3. The competition closing date is subject to change without notice. 4. The winner will be notified in writing. 5. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence can be entered into. 6. The prize is not transferable and has no monetary value. 7. The closing date is 30th November 2011. Competition sponsored by Dremel. 8. No purchase necessary and there is no charge to enter via the website For more information, at www.craftfocus.com. T: +44 (0)844 7360 107 or visit www.dremel.com.

craftfocus 57 a major in quilting EQS evolved as business boomed for Graeme Wright and Elizabeth West. Graeme shares his story

What made you decide to become a wholesaler. Our vision was to do have an on-line presence. (I love the to venture into this use Quilt Direct to demonstrate that the description of these businesses as clicks and business? concept worked and there was a market for mortar!) Undoubtedly the internet is a major Since leaving university the products that we offered. On that basis, feature which will develop strongly in the most of my working career we set retail prices that allowed a margin for years to come and we do have some accounts has been in the craft sector shops to make a living. trading exclusively via this medium. in a number of countries After seven years building the business around the world. I joined Coats Patons as we sold Quilt Direct and became European it then was and during my time with them I Quilting Supplies or, as we are generally known “We pride ourselves on having built up a wide network of contacts and an now, EQS Ltd. Not least this eliminated the probably the widest range of understanding of how the industry works. perceived problem of us competing with our products for patchwork and own customers. This is a philosophy that After leaving Coats, I worked with a partner quilting in Europe. We really in the US introducing American craft products we have stuck strictly to even when, in the to European distributors. We found that in interim, more manufacturers and wholesalers are a one-stop shop with fabrics, many cases the wholesalers relied totally on seem to be going the other way and supplying threads, waddings, notions, the suppliers to generate awareness of the consumers direct. books etc” products in the UK, something that in general Over the years we have steadily added they were not willing to do. It occurred to us to our range with threads, waddings and that there was an opportunity for a marketing- fabrics. More recently we have built on What are the specialist brands led company to make a real difference. our relationship with Madeira threads and you distribute? In addition, we had been heavily involved in Zweigart fabrics to launch our own range of We pride ourselves on having probably the putting together a range of quilting products cross stitch and needlework kits. widest range of products for patchwork and for a German company and so had many quilting in Europe. We really are a one-stop excellent contacts in this particular craft. With How did your previous work help shop with fabrics, threads, waddings, notions, those in mind we started Quilt Direct. establish this business? books etc. On top of that we have a wealth While working with Coats, I had spent time of experience that we are happy to share with When did this happen? in Spain and South America as well as the UK. our customers to help them get the most out Quilt Direct was started in 1996, making 2011 When I came back to this country I was sent of this exciting craft. Possibly the top brands our 15th year in business. Although at ﬁ rst it to a wholesale business in Nottingham owned we carry are Michael Miller and Riley Blake was a mail order business, our aim was always by the group. There I learned how to run a (fabrics), Sew Simple (waddings), YLI and business that had several thousand products Madeira (threads), Clover Needlecraft (sewing and even then a 360 page catalogue. It has and knitting tools) and this in addition to many stood me in good stead when building up more. In total we carry over 6000 lines. EQS Ltd. My colleague Elizabeth West has had a long What do you think is your USP? career working mainly in administration, she We have a wide range of goods that cover was formerly PA to the Chairman of Cadbury all areas of quilting. On top of that we have Schweppes. She is also a keen quilter although an unrivalled knowledge of the market and her current responsibilities do not leave much the craft. Quilting is a technical craft with time to enjoy the activity! many different elements to it and it is by understanding the various techniques and the Are most of your customers web based best product for each one that we can be of or bricks and mortar retailers? most use to our customers. Even now most of our customers are We also have a comprehensive website traditional retail shops, though many of them (www.eqsuk.com) which is accessible to

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quilting remains an essentially traditional craft, we have noticed in the last couple of years a signifi cant trend towards brighter, fresher colours which, in many cases, refl ect the consumers in order to educate and illustrate constant stream of new lines coming onto the fashion industry in its colour combinations. the various products that we have. Of course, market; it is our job to keep abreast of what Names such as Michael Miller, Riley Blake and without a trade account they cannot see they are and bring them to the UK. Amy Butler epitomise this trend. The good prices or place orders. In addition, and what news is that this is also making quilting more we fi nd very exciting, is that we now have an How do you select the products you attractive to a younger generation. app which is really an electronic catalogue. For want to stock? those people who have an iPad or iPhone, this Twice a year we attend Quilt Market in Are there any important lessons that means that they can view our product range America. This is the major trade show you have learned that you can share with whether they are on-line or not. There is even and really is the forum not just to see new CF readers? a facility to create and order from a wish list products but discuss trends, new techniques, When starting a new business, everything which our customers can email to us. On top marketing ideas and so on. Fortunately I was takes longer than you can ever predict and if of that, consumers can do the same but email invited to sit on the Advisory Board for the you don’t wake at 3am thinking, “What have I the list to their favourite retailer. organisation of the show and so we do get done?” then you are not taking it seriously! early indications of new ideas and products Our efforts on the internet are that enable us to stay ahead of the game. What plans do you have for the future? We endeavour to ask the following Most recently we have expanded our activities designed to achieve two things: questions to ensure our criteria is met: is it to encompass a wider range of textile craft fi rst to make it easier for our truly new? Is it a suitable product? Does it products. Building on our distribution of customers to place their orders work effectively? And does it represent true Madeira threads and Zweigart fabrics, we now with us and, second, to encourage value for money? Because of different tastes offer a wide range of lines for needlework and and techniques, what may be selling well in cross stitch. This has led us to commission a consumers to increase their spend America may simply not be of interest in the wide assortment of cross stitch and stamped with their local EQS stockist. UK. Our job is to make that call. needlework kits under the EQS label. In addition, we have not ruled out the What are your best selling lines? Do you offer workshops/courses? possibility of expanding into the rest of Europe. While fabrics are an important element in We don’t offer workshops as such, but We now have contacts across the EU and our sales, it is the non-fabric lines that tend to re totally committed to education so we beyond which could form the foundation of get overlooked. Recent research in America work closely with various teachers and a concerted drive to work more actively in suggests that 40 percent of the sales of quilting demonstrators who give classes using our those areas. We just need to make sure that products are generated through products products. In addition, we have a library of we have all the resources, primarily human, to other than fabrics. That is certainly not the instructional videos on our website that show carry out a properly structured and supported case in the UK. We maintain that fabric is how to use a number of different products. campaign. C bought with the heart and non-fabric with Certainly workshops form an important the head. That can make it diffi cult to make part of the quilting story and most of our Further information a balanced decision about how to allocate customers do offer classes. EQS Ltd, 11 Iliffe House, Iliffe Avenue, budgets. Above all, it is impossible to make a Leicester, LE2 5LS. quilt without wadding and threads so that is a What do you think are the most T: +44 (0)116 271 0033 good place to start. Notions (the American important trends for this season? E: [email protected] term for specialist haberdashery products) Big, bright and bold may be the best way www.eqsuk.com are the basic tools of a quilter and there is a to describe current trends in fabrics. While

craftfocus 59 GOING ABOVE and beyond

Jo Causon, Chief Executive of the Institute of Customer Service, sheds some light on the many reasons why excelling at customer service makes good business sense.

The two questions that to demonstrate that it is an important Customers want to be treated as a person crop up most regularly strategic driver for business. We wanted to not a number. We want to give our candid whenever I speak or move thinking away from customer service opinion on the service we receive – and the I am interviewed are: being purely about service and the delivery growth of social media makes this very easy. ‘Does customer service mechanisms to a recognition of its worth as a The softer elements of customer experience really matter?’ and when serious business imperative at the very heart and customer engagement – the complete I reply emphatically, ‘Yes of any successful business. experience – these are the areas organisations it does, it matters very If you look at the Institute’s UK Customer need to focus on and measure. This needs much’, I am invariably Satisfaction Index results, it’s clear that the to be done right across the business, from asked ‘OK, but isn’t it same companies are always up at the top of the back to the front. It’s not just about how very expensive to get customer service right?’ the ratings – significantly ahead of the game. glossy the brochure or the website are, or The answer is an equally emphatic ‘No.’ What is it that makes them so successful? The indeed about how beautiful the dress looks. It’s While it is one thing to believe this fervently, way they implement, manage and measure about an end-to-end experience that creates as I do, it is quite another thing to prove it, their customer service and how they work to an advocate of the customer. but this is what the Institute of Customer align their people, processes and strategy. That experience begins before the Service has recently tried to do. The result While our research didn’t cover the craft customer has even come in contact with you is a major piece of new research, ‘Return on sector specifically, there is enough common personally. It might be a referral from a friend, investment in customer service – the bottom ground in the findings to predict that they will the result of ‘Googling’ on the web, or casually line report’ which investigates the impact that apply equally to this area as to any other. These softer, less tangible aspects of customer customer service has on the bottom line of There is no one single solution shining service are harder to measure, especially any organisation. through our report – which doesn’t surprise those that influence customer behaviour and The research arose from a realisation that me. It is of course contextual and will vary perceptions, but they will lead to competitive those of us involved in promoting customer depending on the business sector, culture advantage because they provide a focused and service excellence and professionalism need of the organisation, competitive landscape customer-centric approach – bringing all parts to talk more in the language of business. We and other factors. But what is clear is that of the business together to give customers need to understand how business operates the softer, more emotional activities such as what they want. And in today’s challenging and how customer service delivery – the treating customers as individuals are becoming economic climate, the organisations that can whole experience – has to add up in order more and more important. differentiate through exceptional customer

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service are the ones who will not only survive, • Be innovative. Embrace social media, look through selecting and training the right staff they will grow. at what online forums are saying about they can develop a consistent customer you, your industry and your competitors. experience much more easily. “It’s not just about how glossy the Find out where you can make While we must acknowledge the brochure or the website are, or the difference. importance of customer service we should indeed about how beautiful the • Don’t forget your basics. Review your also celebrate it. National Customer Service ‘hygiene factors’ such as service recovery Week, run by the Institute and taking place dress looks. It’s about an end-to- and staff training. from 3rd-9th October. Last year over 1,700 end experience that creates an And in answer to my second most businesses and organisations took part to advocate of the customer.” frequently asked question, ‘Isn’t this expensive?’ acknowledge the role the customer plays in It certainly doesn’t have to be. The latest their activities. It is free to join in and you Strong, enduring customer relationships are results from our bi-annual UK Customer don’t have to be a member of the Institute. the key to long term success and profitability. Satisfaction Index published in July, show that See below for details. A total of 81 per cent of respondents believed small organisations can steal the march on that gaining an understanding from the their larger rivals through personalised service. customer viewpoint i.e. understanding what Local providers score well for the unrivalled the customer wants - not what you believe they might want - is very likely to lead to an “Local providers score well for ROI in customer service. Acting on customer the professionalism of their staff, feedback was second with 74 per cent and their knowledge of the customer selecting the right staff followed with 68 and the organisation’s services – per cent. If you want to achieve an optimum return and importantly how they handle on your investment in customer service, complaints and customer issues. I recommend the following steps to add In doing so they rival the best real value to your organisation and, thereby, performers in the Index as a achieve competitive returns. • Look at your strategy – its effectiveness, whole, such as John Lewis, Marks how is it perceived internally and & Spencer, Marriott Hotels and externally – and compare it to other similar giants.” your competitors. The message is that it is no longer good • Is customer service fully embedded professionalism of their staff, their knowledge enough to simply satisfy your customers or in your culture? Is there a consistent of the customer and the organisation’s to deliver a service that works. No longer approach across the organisation, services – and importantly how they handle can you merely deliver a service within the its attitudes and behaviours? How complaints and customer issues. In doing so timescale you have set. All these are important comfortable is your staff with making they rival the best performers in the Index as and we have to do them. But what will really informed decisions for the customer, a whole, such as John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, make the difference is when the customer without having to refer the query to a Marriott Hotels and other similar giants. asks: when I went through that experience, more senior colleague? So, small is beautiful. Large organisations did they really engage with me, did they • Do you look at the service you provide may have big training budgets but theirs is understand my needs, did they think about from the customer viewpoint? Do you a constant struggle to deliver consistently what was best for me? Does this approach know what needs to change in order good customer service, to ensure that every run through the whole of your organisation? to deliver the definitive customer customer gets the same standards of service Would I recommend them to a friend? experience? How can you develop a strong across all their outlets. Smaller organisations There should always be a constant striving relationship with all your customers? may not have the financial advantages but for improvement, never settling for the routine just because it’s always worked for you. About the Institute of Customer Service Successful organisations are those that are The Institute of Customer Service is the professional body for customer service and is prepared to innovate and if necessary, take the first port of call on all aspects of customer service, delivering tangible benefits to a risk. C organisations and individuals. Our aim is to ensure that our customers can improve their business performance and their customers’ experience. Further information The Institute is a membership body with a community of more than 320 organisational The Institute of Customer Service members - from the private, public and third sectors - and around 6,000 individual members. www.instituteofcustomerservice.com

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needlework needle crafting

Step into the modern world of needlecraft delights, with Becky Williams’ run-down of tapestry, Stylish storage embroidery and more Prym’s storage bags are practical and pretty – essential for needlework enthusiasts! Well thought-out, they From the tapestries of ancient Egypt to the embroideries of the Bayeux Tapestry, provide plenty of space for essential needlework needecrafts are some of the most ancient handicrafts known to man. It’s the accessories when open and when closed they’re beautiful simplicity of needlecrafts that has enabled them to endure into the 21st compact enough to store easily. Inside, there are elastic century, a new audience of enthusiastic and contemporary crafters can be found. loops in various sizes, plus pockets for storing tape New developments in the industry are bringing in new needlecrafters, while also measures, scissors, pens, etc. The sturdy design keeps the giving experienced crafters fresh areas of interest. This month, we’re looking at the contents safe and well organised. The bags are not only needlecrafts of tapestry, long stitch, embroidery, rag rugging, crewel and stumpwork functional but downright chic, and sure to be on every plus specialist tools. needlework enthusiast’s wish list! For crafters with a lot more stash to store, Prym make larger storage boxes, as well as other haberdashery items, including scissors, thimbles, Best of British magnifying glasses, embroidery frames and embroidery Coats Crafts offers needles for use in tapestry, embroidery and crewel. premium quality products Whether your customers are new to crafting and need across all sectors of general purpose accessories, or they are expert crafters the crafting sphere. Their needlepoint brands include Anchor, Maia and Royal looking for specialist tools, Prym cater for every need. Paris, all of which offer a fabulous selection of tapestry and long stitch kits, Further information: Coats Crafts UK alongside the cross stitch ranges. Autumn sees the launch of the new Anchor T: +44 (0)1325 394227, or Habico Limited AW11 collection, featuring a comprehensive selection of new tapestry designs. T: +44 (0)113 2631500. Floral and traditional British landscape scenes mix with more contemporary homeware designs and keep well within the current trend boundaries. Notable is the new ‘Love’ tapestry cushion kit, reflecting the quirky British theme perfectly by including flavours of the Union Jack design. There are also several beautiful still life designs alongside quintessentially British countryside scenes. Also new for this autumn is the new Anna Maria Horner needleworks collection. Part of this collection is two beautiful envelope collections of six- strand embroidery floss in different palettes chosen specially by Anna Maria. The packages are exquisitely beautiful and provide a portable storage option for all of your stitching adventures. The envelope even has a large-scale winding card for the embroiderer to use. Alongside this will be a beautiful two-ply pearl cotton range, also packaged in charming gift boxes. Further information: T: +44 (0)1484 681881, E: [email protected], www.coatscrafts.co.uk Licensed needlework Verachtert is a leading Belgian manufacturer of quality needlework kits, which have been sold worldwide for 60 years under the trade mark Vervaco. The Vervaco collection is an all-round needlework collection which includes a range of licensed products such as Disney and Popcorn. The Vervaco range contains a wide variety of different needlework kits with all kinds of techniques, including long stitch, tapestry, latch hook and cross stitch. Thanks to the international style of the designs, the top-quality materials (Zweigart fabric and DMC yarn), and clear multi-lingual working instructions, the kits are commercial products which can easily be marketed. Further information: Groves & Banks T: +44 (0)1844 258080, Thomas B. Ramsden T: +44 (0)1943 872264, Design Perfection T: +44 (0)1706 822556, W: www.verachtert.be

craftfocus 65 needle crafting

Floral and traditional British landscape scenes mix with more contemporary homewares designs.

Classic samplers Patricia Ann Designs was founded in March 2000 and in the past 11 years, Patricia has produced over 60 designs with many more featured in magazines in the Kits with extras UK and USA. She has also written a book, ‘Beginner’s Christine Silvester has been designing needlework kits under the Abacus Designs Guide to Drawn Thread Embroidery’, published by name since 1993 and has just introduced a brand new kit concept. She says: “The Search Press. Patricia says: “My samplers incorporate new ‘Stitch and Sow’ range features spectacular embroidered flower designs, and a traditional stitches and techniques from the past with novel feature is that every kit contains a pack of Thompson and Morgan seeds, so contemporary new fibres, threads and embellishments, the flower can be grown as well as stitched.” to produce a stunning modern heirloom.” “The kits make great gifts and have received an excellent response. With vibrant Some designs are geared at the more experienced shades of Madeira threads, the kits contain Indian silk, which is then backed with stitcher who wants to improve their stitching skills by wadding and calico to give a padded effect. The completed designs vary in size learning new and challenging intricate speciality stitches from three to five inch square, with trade prices varying accordingly, from £6.25 and techniques like Drawn Thread and Hardanger. Other upward. An attractive point of sale display box is provided with initial orders of designs may feature just one or two simple techniques, 16 kits or more.” making them perfect for beginners wishing to broaden Abacus Designs has built up an enviable reputation in the specialist needlecraft their needlecraft skills. All the designs feature clear and sector and its wide range of designs also includes canals and waterways, buildings easy to follow charts, diagrams and written instructions. and town scenes. Further information: T: +44 (0)1634 861796, Further information: Abacus Designs at Audlem Mill Limited, The Wharf, E: [email protected], www.patricia-ann- Audlem, Cheshire, CW3 0DX, T: +44 (0)1270 811059, E: [email protected], designs.com, UK distributor Derwentwater Designs www.abacusdesigns.com/trade.html or www.abacusdesigns.com/stitch & sow T: +44 (0)1768 865008. embroidery.html

Magic canvases Zweigart is the world’s leading manufacturer of needlework fabrics and canvases. Since 1877, Zweigart has been weaving, dyeing and ﬁnishing top-quality German made fabrics for different needlework techniques, such as embroidery, tapestry, long stitch, hardanger, pulled and drawn thread work, and all kinds of canvas work. Recently launched is Zweigart’s two new ‘needlework idea’ booklets with projects for using Waste Canvas and Magic Canvas. Waste Canvas can be used as a grid to work embroidery onto clothing, such as jeans, sweaters, caps, etc. After the embroidery is ﬁnished, the canvas is dampened in order to pull out the warp and weft threads. The embroidered motive is now on the garment. This is a very popular technique for young people to be able to personalise their favourite piece of clothing. The Zweigart needlework idea booklet no. 222 shows projects with instructions using Zweigart canvases (article 500/40 and 510/56). Magic Canvas (article 9614) is a coloured canvas, which is a combination of a craft and a needlework product. It’s possible to work 3D projects, as well as framed needlework projects. The Zweigart needlework idea booklet shows a variety of projects using long stitch and chain stitch, such as friendship bracelets, keyring pendants, sport bags, book jackets and many more. Further information: Zweigart & Sawitzki, T: 0049 7031 795 427, E: sales @zweigart.de. Or contact Zweigart’s UK distributors: Derwentwater Designs T: +44 (0)1768 483 119, EQS T: +44 (0)116 271 0033, HeeBee T: +44 (0)1565 872 225, Heritage Cratfs T: +44 (0)1889 575 256.

66 craftfocus Stock up now for Christmas

Tapestry kits for all levels of ability Easy to follow designs with colour printed canvas Tel: 01460 281111 [email protected] www.jollyred.co.uk needle crafting

Specialist embroidery tutor If you’re looking for an embroidery expert to visit your shop and hold talks or workshops, look no further than Tracy A Franklin. Tracy is a specialist freelance embroiderer, based in Fowlers Strawberry tapestry Yard studios, Durham City. She is an expert in Bothy Threads has a small range of traditional tapestry kits, with various embroidery techniques, including Crewel the most popular being the William Morris, Bird and Strawberry work (wool on linen), Silk-shading (ﬁne embroidery), Canvas work Thief. Over the last ten years, the company has concentrated on (embroidery worked on canvas) and Gold work (both traditional and developing an extensive range of cross stitch kits, but is now excited contemporary). As well as commission work, exhibiting and selling to be launching a new range of contemporary tapestry kits. specialist materials, Tracy also teaches these techniques in workshops Bothy Threads is also busy stitching up a wonderful Gorjuss and classes, both at her studios and other requested venues. collection, featuring square and circular cushion designs and a vintage The classes, courses and workshops taught by Tracy include Royal collection will be out later this year. All these new kits are worked in School of Needlework certiﬁcated courses, and City & Guilds tent stitch using Appleton tapesty wool on a 12HPI canvas. Embroidery & Design levels 1, 2 and 3, taught on site and also by Further information: T: 01638 665149, E: [email protected], distance learning. These courses are taught through Tracy’s well- www.bothythreads.com. established ‘Stitchbusiness’ (www.stitchbusiness.com). Like any good expert, Tracy also boasts three embroidery publications to her name: ‘New Ideas in Goldwork’, ‘Contemporary Whitework’ (both published by BT Batsford Ltd), and ‘Crewel Work’ (self published). Tracy also works to commission for individuals and for bigger museum work, and she leads the Durham Cathedral Broderers on ecclesiastical commissions, which are supported by the Friends of Durham Cathedral. Within her studio, there are various pieces of work on display and a stock of specialist threads, materials and other embroidery equipment available, for classes, workshops and individuals. Further information: W: www.tracyafranklin.com.

Unique creativity Packed with tradition For almost 20 years, Mill Hill (a Twilleys of Stamford has long been associated with the division of Wichelt Imports in the manufacture and distribution of needlecraft kits from its original US) has manufactured kits, beads, base in Lincolnshire. Twilleys traditionally had a comprehensive buttons and treasures world range of tapestry, cross stitch, embroidery and longstitch kits wide crafting enthusiasts. with a plethora of design subjects. Today, the Twilleys of Stamford The unique line of Mill Hill kits brand is part of the Thomas Ramsden group and is based in combine beads with stranded West Yorkshire, where it continues to evolve and ﬂourish in its thread, and are stitched on craft products. perforated paper. Mill Hill The once extensive range of craft products has been vastly produces new lines of kits for reduced but, more importantly, it has been refreshed and it now the spring/summer, autumn and regularly launches new products developed by the small design winter seasons, ranging from small (6x6cm) to large (13x13cm), plus team that still resides in Stamford. other specialties throughout the year. The Buttons and Beads, Charmed The current needlecraft collection offers plenty of choice for Ornaments, Seasonal Ornaments and Santa lines are several of the most tapestry and longstitch, mostly in the form of traditional scenes popular. Each kit comes complete with Mill Hill Glass Beads, Ceramic and cushions kits, but there are also some smaller projects for Button and/or Treasure, 14-count Perforated Paper, stranded thread, children. The future will see Twilleys focused on maintaining a needles and instructions. Mill Hill also holds the license for producing kits compact range of products that are continually supplemented that adapt the artwork of Debbie Mumm, Jim Shore and Sticks. with new kits engaging strong and innovative designs. Mill Hill is a division of Wichelt Imports, a leading distributor of The Twilleys 2011 catalogue is available from head ofﬁce or needlecraft products worldwide for more than 40 years, including cross alternatively can be viewed as a PDF online at www.tbramsden. stitch fabric, bell-pull hardware, Permin kits, Mirabilia Designs, stranded co.uk/craft thread, needles, scissors and the complete Mill Hill line. Further information: T: +44 (0)1943 872264, Further information: E: [email protected], www.wichelt.com. E: [email protected], www.tbramsen.co.uk.

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A world of creativity DMC Creative World Ltd is delighted to offer retailers a wonderful selection of tapestry products including Collection D’Art Tapestry Canvases, Woodland Folk starter packs, Tapestry Starter kits and a range of Children’s Tapestry kits. Tapestry is traditionally worked in half cross stitch using DMC tapestry wool or soft cotton onto a colour design printed on tapestry canvas. The designs available are perfect for all tastes and abilities, from beginners to experienced stitchers, with the Collection D’art range offering 50 at great value, in a range of popular themes and sizes. There are also complete kits with the Woodland Folk Tapestry starter packs that include DMC soft cotton thread, as well as a range of fun and quick-to-stitch Sensational Tapestry starter kits that make the perfect gift for someone who stumpwork is keen to learn a new technique. Prices: from RRP £8.99 for a and more 6x6in tapestry starter kit to £23.99 for a 20x24in (50x60cm) Collection D’Art canvas only. The Mary Jane Collection is a small Further information: T: +44 (0) 116 275 4000, design and manufacturing company, E: [email protected], www.dmccreative.co.uk. which specialises in the more traditional forms of embroidery. The company has been trading for about 20 years and the product range has grown from those early days. Inspiration is taken from the Rug hooking countryside and designs use traditional styles, for example, the range artist of crewelwork in the Jacobean style. The range of products include Rug Making is becoming Crewelwork, Goldwork, Stumpwork, and Blackwork, with kits and a popular art and craft booklets suitable not just for the accomplished needleworker but also form using traditional for the beginner. techniques, and turning The Blackwork range has the more traditional samplers and bellpulls new and recycled but there is also a range of seven books for Christmas – each book materials into fabulous contains six designs using Holbein stitch. They also incorporate charms floor coverings, just as our ancestors did many years go. Cilla and buttons, which bring them into the 21st century. Cameron is an international rug maker, teacher and wholesaler The Goldwork kits comprise not only flowers but hedgerows as well, who runs The Rug Studio in Nottinghamshire. She runs rag rug (shown in the Blackberries and the Rosehips kits). These kits use beads workshops in her studio and in retail outlets to promote rug for the stumpwork blackberries, and rayon threads for the embroidery, making and sells rug-making equipment through mail order. to give the look of silk, which is then enhanced with Jap thread. Cilla holds a wide range of equipment, from the beginner The range of Crewelwork covers pictures, cushions, bellpulls through to experienced makers, for making both Hooked and firescreens. The thread used in the crewelwork range is Caron Rugs and Proddy Mats. She offers to retailers a selection of Impressions, which is 50 percent silk and 50 percent wool. The thread Rag Rug Kits, with and without ready-drawn patterns, and ensures that stitches are not as ‘chunky’ as wool and yet not as flat as including hooks, prodders and spring hooks handcrafted in stranded cotton. The designs use a variety of different stitches and are England. Ready-drawn patterns on hessian are suitable for available as fabric packs as well as complete kits. all rug makers and this top-quality evenweave hessian is The Mary Jane Collection offers eight accessory kits in the manufactured for rug makers. stumpwork range, which covers the use of wire and calico slips within The Rug Studio offers a fabulous collection of jewel- the design. These kits are suitable for beginners. There are also three coloured, hand-dyed wool flannel swatches for making hooked larger designs in the stumpwork range – Foxglove, Apple Blossom, and proddy rugs, as well as hand-dyed sheep fleece that’s Robin and Ivy. suitable for textured work. Further information: T: +44 (0)1352 771359, Further information: Cilla Cameron T: +44 (0)775 277 E: [email protected], www.maryjanecollection.com. 2474, E: [email protected], www.ragrugsuk.co.uk.

70 craftfocus needle crafting

Introducing rag rugging Deborah Hastings runs Devon-based Rag Rug Textiles and produces kits that include a sample of rag rugging, plus enough recycled fabric to get started learning this craft in a successful and achievable way. The kits are ideal for newcomers and make lovely gifts – simply add a pair of scissors! Each kit is contained in an A4 clear hanging bag and there are three kits available. The Proddy Kit contains a 2ft square of hessian, a sample of rag rugging, prodder, plus a marked-out piece of recycled fabric ready to cut into the right-sized pieces, and full written instructions. Add a backing to make into a cushion. The Hooky Kit contains a 2ft square of hessian, sample of rag rugging, hook, plus a marked-out piece of recycled fabric ready to cut into the right- sized pieces, and full written instructions. Add a backing to make into a cushion. The Lavender Bag Kit makes an eight inchsquare lavender bag, and includes all materials needed including: recycled fabric, lavender sachet, prodder, a sample and full written instructions. If required, Deborah can provide a sample of the lavender bag kit to aid sales, and Deborah can also provide demonstrations or workshops to help introduce rag rugging to your shop. Further information: T: +44 (0)1769 560515, E: [email protected], www.ragrugtextiles.com

Rag rugger tool Rag rug making is an old favourite craft, often associated with ‘hard times’. There are a range of working methods and tools available but the ‘standard’ in the UK used to be the shaggy rag rug (with a range of regional names) usually made with a tool, now antique, properly called ‘Browns Patent Rag Mat Maker’. Browns ceased production more that half a century More rag rugs ago, but Makings Handicrafts has created a modern Jenni Stuart-Anderson is based in Herefordshire and has been making one-off, version of the old Brown’s tool called the ‘Rag Rugger’ contemporary rag rugs, cushions and wall hangings since 1987. She uses recycled and has been gaining in popularity ever since. textiles, which she also weaves into boas with locally sourced rare breed ﬂeece. Using The present economic downturn has brought traditional techniques and tools, Jennie holds workshops at various venues, including increased attention to rag rug making, and the fact retailers’ premises. that this is the ultimate recycling craft (the material ‘Rag Rug Making’ by Jenni Stuart-Anderson was published by Traplet Publications used is almost always old clothes or textiles) makes it in 2003 and has been reprinted twice. Jenni’s new book ‘More Rag Rugs’ will be one of the hottest topics in the craft world. It’s been a published later this year. Both books outline the history of rag rug making and give favourite at craft shows, large and small, for some time. guidelines for designing and making rag rugs and other projects, including doorstops, Makings Handicrafts is based in Cornwall and jewellery, festive wreaths and seat mats. The new book ‘More Rag Rugs’, also produces a small range of other rag rug making tools, published by Traplet includes details for making a rug frame and a peg loom, plus a supplying wholesale to teachers, demonstrators and peg loom woven rug project. retail outlets throughout the UK and well beyond. With interest growing rapidly in recycling crafts and a low-impact life style, Jenni’s Makings Handicrafts creates all of its own products and rag rug making courses are being snapped up across the UK. is, therefore, able to guarantee quality. Further information:T: +44 (0)1568 750229, E: [email protected], Further information: T: +44 (0)1566 779136, www.jenni.ragrugs.freeuk.com E: [email protected], www.makings.co.uk.

72 craftfocus 75$'(:,5(6&28.

8QLW=RQH$ &KHOPVIRUG5RDG,QGXVWULDO(VWDWH *UHDW'XQPRZ(VVH[&0+' templates are tops

From templates to workshops to manufacturing, B-C-E has developed a thriving business inspired by imagination! Owner Jon Sutton tells us more…

What made you decide to venture into problem of keeping customers interested. Who are your customers and what specialist this business? I have several years experience in varied brands do you distribute? As a retailer we noticed there was a gap in manufacturing environments and am therefore The majority of our customers are bricks and the market for generous sized shaped card extremely knowledgeable about the technical mortar shops with a growing number of web templates for consumers. When we began, processes. So it was a very easy transition to retailers. We only sell our own B-C-E branded we decided to use the strongest available close one of our outlets to concentrate on products including templates, stamps, CDRoms, Polypropylene for manufacturing the templates manufacturing and the award winning Blyth DVDs, decoupage and our extremely popular as we realised that the end user is going to be Craft Studio. template tape. using the templates time and time again.

When was the business started? We started in summer 2006 manufacturing our ﬁrst Stencillo designs purely to sell in our own two retail shops and at consumer shows. Our own customers spread the word to other retailers, and they approached us to ask if we would supply them. Within a few months we decided to attend the Craft, Hobby and Stitch International trade show in the Bright Sparks pavilion and attracted our ﬁrst 60 retailers. At the show we were approached by one of the buyers for Create and Craft, which pushed us into full time manufacturing.

What was your background prior to this business? Kim (wife and business partner) had been in retail crafting for eight years and had racked up a few awards for best regional retailer in that time. Her classes were extremely popular and an ideal way to showcase techniques and products, but coming up with new ideas all the time was very tiring. Using our templates she found she could offer several classes from one template and different decoration techniques could be incorporated into the class. So Kim’s mind began to race with ideas for templates which increased the classes and eased her

74 craftfocus focus on... focus on...

What do you think is your unique selling point? Strong durable templates with easy to follow instructions that always follow the same format. Many consumers that use our products comment that they are easy to use and they provide speed and accuracy by eliminating measuring. Kim is constantly designing templates which can do more than What are your best selling lines? promoting licensed characters. B-C-E is also one card ensuring that the inevitable value- Whatever is newest is always the hottest seller. meeting this demand, but, instead of providing for-money factor is at the forefront of the At present exploding boxes and complex card images that are proliﬁc in high street greeting consumer’s mind. Our instructional DVDs are projects are seeing a revival. The kinetic cards card shops, we have opted to commission our a strong selling tool, giving the consumer the have so much more appeal, that the recipient very own range of ‘cute’ characters by a UK techniques to do more with each template often leaves that card out for weeks after the artist. This gives the card maker a whole new than it was originally designed for and also event to show visitors. The pride the maker choice which is exclusively for their use. acting as a showcase for other templates in feels is incredible. the range. Many of the templates can be used Are there any important lessons that for umpteen different creations. Do you offer workshops/courses? you have learned that you can share with Kim can be booked for In-store CF readers? demonstrations which can include a workshop. As a retailer, try to keep up with current “Whatever is newest is always the Most of our retailers book Kim a couple of trends and listen to your customers – they hottest seller, however, at present times a year. know what they want which might not exploding boxes and complex card necessarily be what you want to stock. Try to projects are seeing a revival” What do you think are the most important educate them into purchasing products that trends for this season? will breathe new life into their creations. Run Character based products have been demonstrations and classes. Samples always gaining popularity with many manufacturers sell – a lot of consumers will often be swayed into a purchase if they can see an example of what a product will allow them to create. Our templates come in resealable cellophane bags so staff members can make samples for the price of a piece of card. Most customers are absolutely ﬁne if you say the only template left is the one you used to make a sample. C

Further information B-C-E (UK) Ltd, Unit 9, Edlington Court, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, DN21 1LT T: +44 (0)1427 810301 E: [email protected] W: www.b-c-e.co.uk/trade

craftfocus 75

quilting quilting

quilting today

Quilting: stitching together two pieces of fabric with a thick padding between them. Actually, quilting today is so much more than this dictionary deﬁ nition says Wendy Gardiner

The recent Festival of Quilts, was a huge during the show, the vast majority of which success with visitor numbers slightly up year- are fully booked prior to the event starting! on-year despite the economic times and riots Quilters have a veracious appetite for learning (which were happening at the same time), new techniques and trying new tools. Many which just goes to show that quilting is still also come with empty suitcases, ready big news. There are lots of different types of to stock up on lots of new products, fabrics quilting, ranging from traditional quilts using and threads. Fabrics traditional techniques to amazing textile art. To For further information about Twisted Judi Mendelssohn, assistant editor of the fi nd out how the various aspects of quilting are Thread’s creative exhibitions, T: +44 (0)208 magazine travels around the country visiting perceived we spoke to an exhibition organiser, 692 2299, www.twistedthread.com. shops to feature in the magazine and says retailers, editors and tutors. she has noticed how each shop has its own THE EDITORS distinctive identity. This will be primarily due to THE EXHIBITION ORGANISER Patchwork and what the shop owner likes, modifi ed by what Twisted Thread Quilting magazine their customers want. Sometimes the building Andrew Salmon, MD of Twisted Thread, Dianne Huck, editor in which the shop is situated can have an organisers of the Festival of Quilts, the Knitting of British Patchwork & infl uence, such as whether it is old with many and Stitching shows and Stitch and Craft Quilting magazine rooms, full of nooks and crannies or a large shares her views on room in a modern building. “Of course each Some months ago we were telephoned by the quilting market. shop will need a wide basic range, but being someone doing research into the benefi ts of known as a ‘specialist’ stockist whether that’s quilting, but even we were unprepared for the I’m delighted that patchwork and quilting for ‘30s prints, American Civil War designs, resulting newspaper headline. Enthusiastic as is still a strong, vibrant craft 30 years after its batiks or Japanese designs, can have a big we are, we can’t (quite) see quilting as the huge revival in the late ‘70s. I think quilting impact especially when trading at quilt shows new yoga! What we do see is that the vast stores have probably done most to keep where a stall needs to stand out from the majority of people who attend Festival of the sewing and cotton industry buoyant crowd” said Judi. Even with the competition Quilts, simply take enormous satisfaction in and are very important in retaining interest of internet sales, quilters still like to see and being amongst fellow quilters and seeing some and encouraging new people to take up stroke fabrics. Patterns and kits are widely extraordinary work. the craft. available and made up samples really do make The exhibition stages a number of Quilting is very social with most quilters a difference to sales. competitions and the resulting displays of belonging to at least one group and this is entries submitted for the various categories is one of the main reasons I feel quilting has Books and magazines always staggering. These along with the galleries fl ourished and grown to the extent it has. These can have a big infl uence on fabric and from top artists and teachers sharing their Encouraging group visits, or taking your shop equipment sales – witness the success of vision and talent make this a very important to the group are great ways to encourage strip rolls. Initially they were bought and left aspect of the show. Another very important sales and ffering activities specifi cally for languishing at home because quilters did not area is the academy workshops and quick and youngsters will inspire a new generation to really know how to use them. Several books easy classes. We offer over 300 different classes continue this creative craft. have shown the myriad of designs possible.

craftfocus 77 quilting today

Justhands-on.tv

In the same way there are books that show lifestyles. All they need is access to the New trends traditional designs for using ‘30s or American internet” said Valerie. I think a fundamental shift is happening and Civil War fabrics. Magazines, such as ‘British Mandy Shaw, one of the UK’s top sewing we are seeing a lot of young women (age Patchwork & Quilting’ often feature projects designers, who features her book ‘Stitch with 25-35) coming to the shop wanting to make using the latest fabric ranges and the editors Love’ on the site says that she has seen a unique quilts or items for either their own strongly believe that quilters need to support defi nite move towards creative home-made children or for friends. They are clearly tired of their local quilt shops. décor. “I think the current economic climate shop-bought items and everything looking the with people spending more time at home same. They want something unique and want Workshops has provided the incentive but the growing to make it themselves. It’s not surprising the Shops that are large enough to encompass momentum is due to the infectious sense of sale of sewing machines has gone through the their own workshop space are at a great well-being generated from making something roof in the last 18 months. I jokingly call it the advantage. ‘Drop in’ sessions for groups or from scratch” she said. For further information ‘Kirstie effect’ as we saw lots of women coming individuals can be offered as well as weekly visit: www.justhands-on.tv. into the shop after the broadcast of Kirstie lessons or day workshops. If space is not Allsop’s Handmade Home programmes. They available in the shop, many owners fi nd it well RETAILERS all wanted to make the same stocking or the worth hiring a nearby hall. Creative Quilting same advent calendar. Issy Saulet of Creative We also get asked if we run classes for To stock British Patchwork & Quilting Quilting, a specialist children (girls and boys). Children love making magazine, available to retailers on SOR, shop in Hampton things and they have no fear – adults can get all contact Traplet Publications Ltd, Court village shared panicky and worried they won’t be able to use T: +44 (0)1684 588500. her views. a machine or might look stupid if they don’t To fi nd out other ways in which the achieve perfection the fi rst time. Children don’t magazine can offer you support contact New products have those hang-ups, you sit them in front of a E: [email protected]. Recycling wadding seems to be doing very machine and off they go. (need this section to well for us. We have just started to stock a be attributed to someone). Justhands-on.tv new product called Dream Green. It’s entirely I have recently listened to Debra Meaden Patchwork and quilting made of recycled plastic bottles (hence the from Dragons Den on Radio 4 and while online is a new concept slight green tint). It comes in a pre-packed I agreed with her about apprentices, I in the UK but one that format (crib, queen, king) and also on the roll don’t agree that one of the reasons is that has been embraced by (60” wide). It works for machine quilting and ‘handmade is not cool’. Where we are (Surrey), Justhands-on.tv who are for hand quilting alike (it’s even the wadding handmade is very cool and lots of young proud to spotlight the recommended by our handquilting teacher, people are doing it as is shown in the photo wide range of talent that exists here in the UK. Jenny Barlow). here. The owl (called Twit) was made by Max Created by Valerie Nesbitt and co-presented We are also seeing a renewed interest in with his mum Sarah. with Jennie Rayment, this on-line tv channel all things vintage of course so buttons, ricrac Creative Quilting, brings weekly workshops and demonstrations and ribbons are doing extremely well. Our T: +44 (0)208 into the homes of subscribers. They also tour customers must have made miles of bunting 941 7075, shows and exhibitions with their cameras so which is the must-have item at any party at www.creative that viewers can be educated, informed and the moment! However, we’ve found the quilting.co.uk. inspired. Devoted to patchwork, quilting and trend is not about brand new products, but mixed media textile arts, it attracted more more about existing products being revamped than 10,000 members worldwide it its fi rst and made to look pretty. We did very well year and during that time ,witnessed a growing with a rotary cutter (Olfa 45mm) that had interest from a younger audience. “People of a white background with lots of pretty tulips all ages, from novices to the experienced, can printed on it. It was a special edition and enjoy workshops and inspiration in their own despite being £4.00 more expensive than the home from talented tutors that they might not plain yellow version, it sold very well. We have otherwise have access to, at any time of the customers buying boxes of pins just because day or night that suits them and their they have a very pretty plastic button head!

78 craftfocus quilting today

The Royal Bridlington

Dotty Dolly THE TUTORS may otherwise have been overlooked. Indeed Joan and Debby Standfast opened a patchwork Val Nesbitt with the use of charm pack squares, the quilt and quilting shop in Wellington, Somerset, a Val Nesbitt has been a patchwork tutor for (or other project) just needs sewing together year ago. many years and explains what she feels the – so in just a couple of hours you’re done!. current mood in quilting is. The Royal Bridlington As a patchwork tutor, the biggest single Fiona Garth and Tim Norman, own The Royal item that transformed my world was the Bridlington at which they organise a whole introduction( some years ago now) of the stream of workshops and courses. rotary cutter and its wonderful marriage with the sewing machine. This meant faster, accurate We started with dancing holidays but soon piecing and the pure enjoyment of sewing - added quilting workshops to our schedule. plus I had a fi nished project quickly. I fi nd that When my mum bought me a Janome the current view by newcomers to patchwork MC11000, which came with a quilting kit, I is that they too want it simple – so the current decided to learn about quilting, fi rstly from a move in shops to sell ‘pre-cuts’ meets that book and then a local class. This, together with We have recently been selling lots of need whether it is in squares (charm packs) the fact that Tim, my husband grew up with Christmas fabric and advent calendar panels. or strips (jelly rolls or strip rolls). Originally quilter Susan Briscoe ensured it was defi nitely Actually these have been selling since July. supplied to shops by the fabric manufacturers, meant to be! In the end we held several It is a sign of the times though that people larger shops are also providing customers workshops and a couple of residential courses are preparing for special occasions well in with their own pre-cuts which means that with Susan last year. Susan teaches patchwork, advance, and that the quick-sew options of the customer has a much wider choice. bags and is an expert in Sashiko. We then pre-printed panels answer the need for an These pre-cuts allow you to pick-up and sew invited Ferret to teach. Ferret is an amazing easy to complete project. Moda’s ‘30s Feedsack pretty much straight away which means very long arm quilter who recently won fi rst prize fabrics are very popular at present, as are the little sub-cutting for a project. They appeal to at The World Quilt Show. Other well known very pretty contemporary fabrics and we think newcomers and dedicated patchworkers too tutors who teach here are Lilian Hedley and this popularity will continue. We have recently as they offer a range of colours/designs that Dawn Cameron-Dick. started selling Osnaburg for customers who All of our course are suitable for all levels like to add embroidery to their cushions and of experience. and we can offer full board if quilts, particularly for those who like ‘red work’. needed. The Royal Bridlington, T: +44 (0)262 672433, www.royalhotelbrid.co.uk Trends for next year We think that the bright and contemporary QUILTING BOOK fabrics will continue to be popular, such as New quilting books are published regularly those designed by Michael Miller and Tanya by the core publishing houses, and they Whelan. These are really good for encouraging can be great to encourage newbies to the younger customers to have a go. There also craft. One such book is Foldy Rolly Patchwork seem to be a lot of large patterns which are Pzzazz by Jennie Rayment, a softback book great for bags and cushions. More traditional published by JR Publications. It includes 12 fabrics always sell and never seem to go out block designs and related projects, presented of favour. in full colour with clear step-by-step Bunting has been very popular and instructions. Littered throughout are also continues to be for all sorts of occasions. We lots of helpful hints, topical tips and humorous predict that this will continue particularly as tales that will keep you laughing as you sew! the Olympics are just around the corner giving Priced £14.75, ISBN 978-0-9524675-9-5 to us another theme. order T: +44 (0)1243 374860, Dotty Dolly, T: +44 (0)1823 660879, E: [email protected], E: [email protected]. www.jennierayment.co.uk. C

80 craftfocus

Life after riots

Big businesses assisting riot-hit high street traders could mark the beginning of a new era of cooperation according to Robert Ashton, political advisor and best-selling author

“It’s a shame that it responsive - so also can the same principles independent retail sector.” took a series of riots be applied to retail”. He suggested that retail Sir William Castell, chairman of the to stop big business giants support local traders, providing access Wellcome Trust wants big businesses to offer from trying to drive to branded products at wholesale prices. “This expertise as well as cash. He said: “The private small traders off the would enable the small market town to have sector has the expertise and needs to use it to high street, and start city brands, with all the cost/value benefits, work with national and local governments, to helping them instead” retailed by independent franchisees”, he said. help others get back on their feet.” said Robert Ashton. The big retailers gain very cost effective He was responding to penetration into otherwise uneconomic, small About Robert Ashton news reports stating that the High Street Fund shopping locations. The independents gain Robert Ashton created the Norfolk – created by The Wellcome Trust and funded more reasons for shoppers to stay local and Community Foundation in 2005. It is now by major companies – is to give £10-million to not travel into big towns and cities. “Everybody close to having a £4 million endowment. In help small shops that fell victim to the rioting. would win,” he added. the past year the foundation has distributed “Perhaps they are finally seeing that it’s the The Co-op already does this, allowing more than £1 million in grants to voluntary independents that fill in the gaps between the community-owned shops to buy from them and community groups. Robert acts as a often boring and bland national stores. They at a discount. The Co-op benefits from higher trouble-shooter on Big Society projects and complete the consumer shopping experience, stock turnover and the community-owned has advised the Parliamentary Office on giving choice and originality” he said. shops can sell branded products at the same Big Society issues. Robert is also a director According to Robert Ashton, localism should price as the Co-op supermarket in town. of Ethecol – an ethical credit & debit card be translated from governance to retail. He Robert said: “Why not do the same with other payments processing company – and the said: “Just as local service delivery by locally- products? Let’s use the High Street Fund as a author of 12 best selling business guides based organisations is better for everyone starting point for a retail revolution, providing (including How to be a Social Entrepreneur – - more accountable, cost effective and real, lasting support to an otherwise declining Capstone 2010). C

82 craftfocus “Serious About Sharpeners”

Established in 1912 KUM is certainly a serious player in the world of Pencil sharpeners, Drawing instruments, Painting brushes and Erasers. Manufactured to the highest standard in the heart of Germany. KUM have sharpeners for every pencil on the market today, including a great LEFT handed range! The KUM blade is manufactured and ﬁtted in a special way which allows smooth and precise ﬁnish time after time, unlike imported “budget” sharpeners which make pencil sharpening a chore and can sometimes destroy a good quality pencil!

For more information on UK distribution. Please contact Keith Vear on 01454 326169 Mobile: 07860260828 or Email: [email protected] PATCHWORK AND QUILTING

The Shirt off his Back Juliet Bawden. Published by Jacqui Small Publishing (available from: Littlehampton Book Services) £18.99 hardback, ISBN: 978 1906 4176 42 Juliet has 30 quirky and imaginative projects transforming the traditional pin stripe, checks, ﬂ owers or rugby shirt into practical, everyday bookshelf items for the home such as cushion covers and bags to a quilt cover and pillowcase. The book is beautifully laid out on a Wendy Gardiner provides a comprehensive project by project basis with easy to follow instructions. listing of the many and varied new titles Home Sewing Techniques available now, all packed with projects and Cheryl Owen. Published by New techniques to get your customers trying out Holland Publishers £16.99 hardback new crafts ISBN: 9781 8477 385 78 This is a beautifully arranged book which guides the beginner through a range of basic sewing skills and ARTS AND CRAFTS then shows how to put these techniques to practical use in a Print workshop variety of attractive and practical By Christine Schmidt everyday items using clear, easy to Published by Potter Craft follow instructions and great photography. (distributed by GMC Distribution) Christmas Crafting In £14.99 softback. No Time ISBN: 978-0-307-58654-4 Clare Youngs. Published by Cico This a casual, easy going ‘how-to’ Books £14.99 softback book on printing images to a ISBN: 9781 9075 6378 2 range of different surfaces. It’s This book has 50 projects and been written in a very relaxed, inspirational ideas including tree but hands-on style and is aimed decorations, cards, gift wrap ideas, at those with low budgets, but festive food and handmade gifts. A high ambitions, you’ll soon be comfortable talking about ink and wide range of crafting techniques shopping at hardware stores. is covered, including papercrafting, paper mache and festive cooking. Stencil It All the templates needed are included. By Helen Morris Published by Jacqui Small Simply the Best: Sewing Book £20.00 softback By Simplicity. Published by Collins & Brown £20.00 hardback ISBN: 978-1-906417-57-4 ISBN: 978-1-84340-557-3 This book demonstrates quick and This is a well-known ‘sewing affordable ways to bring pattern bible’ that’s been updated and colour into your home. There with new illustrations and is a wide range of contemporary photography plus spiral binding and classic effects that can be within a hardback cover. Its achieved using a variety of packed with hints and tips on ﬁ nishes, such as paint, gilding, sewing including understanding plaster and varnish. Projects vary in size, from small scale cards and patterns, sewing basics and cushions, to full scale ventures covering an entire room. sewing on special fabrics.

84 craftfocus bookshelf

KNITING AND CROCHET Cool Knits for Kids By Kate Gunn and Robyn MacDonald. Published by Octopus Books £8.99 softback CRAFTS ISBN: 978-0-600-62377-9 Cool Knits for Kids shows you Books and Journals how easy it is to create stylish and By Constance Richards. Published functional clothes for children. The by Lark Books (distributed by GMC book includes 25 different warm, Distribution) £6.99 softback fashionable knit wear items suitable ISBN: 978-1-60059-994-1 for knitters of all abilities and has clear step-by-step instructions This book contains everything you and detailed photographs. Other books in this series include need to know in order to make Nursery Knits and Cute Knits for Baby Feet. beautiful journals and albums that are unique to you, and all in a weekend! There are more than twenty projects, 20 To Make Mini Christmas each with easy step-by-step instructions and ‘how-to’ photographs. Knits By Sue Stratford. Published by Search Jonathan Adler Happy Chic Press £4.99 softback Origami ISBN: 978-1-84448-722-6 By Jonathan Adler. Published by Sterling Choose from 20 cute and charming mini Publishing (distributed by GMC Distribution) kits such as: A Christmas tree egg cosy, £9.99 boxed mini mittens, angels, French hens, turtle ISBN: 978-1-4027-8048-6 doves and more. All are ideal for gifts or Learn how to create many different origami as decorations plus a great way to use animals with projects by Duy Nguyen. 15 artful up ends of yarn. Also available in the 20 creatures using sheets of Adler’s signature to Make series is Christmas Crochets patterned origami paper are included with by Val Pierce. easy to follow instructions. Animals include owls, gazelles, dragons, greyhounds, and many more. The Knitting Book By Frederica Patmore and Vikki Quick and Easy Paper Crafts Published by Lark Crafts (distributed by GMC Haffenden. Published by DK books Distribution), £12.99 softback £25.00 hardback ISBN: 978- 1- 60059-820 -3 ISBN: 978- 1-4053-6803-2 This book offers an incredible variety of ideas, Whether you’re a knitting novice with each technique clearly explained so that or a seasoned stitcher, this anyone at any level can create professional effects book is the techniques bible. It at home. Explore collage, paper clay, paper includes hundreds of step-by-step weaving, surface design and paper folding. demonstrations and information on the best knitting equipment. The inspiring photographic stitch gallery contains over 120 stiches. Contacts Apply your skills to make a variety of different patterns with ‘The A & C Black, www.acblack.com essential companion for every creative knitter.’ Anova Books, T: +44(0)207 605 1466, www.anovabooks.com Cico Books, T: +44 (0)1256 302699, www.cicobooks.co.uk Simply Amigurumi - 10 Crochet Projects GMC Publications, T: +44(0)1273 488 005, www.thegmcgroup,com By Elisabeth A. Doherty. Published How2crafts, T: +44(0)121 212 9857, www.how2crafts.com by Lark Books (Distributed by GMC Jacqui Small, T: +44 (0)20 7284 7181, www.aurumpress.co.uk Publications) £5.99, softback New Holland, www.newhollandpublishers.com ISBN: 978-1454700-21-0 Octopus Publishing, T: +44 (0)207 632 5488 Amigurumi (Japanese-inspired crocheted Quarto Group (incorporating Creative Publishing International), dolls and objects) is one of the freshest T: +44 (0)20 7284 7197 crafts around and here are ten cute Search Press, T: +44 (0)1892 510 850, E: [email protected], creations that will charm crocheters. www.searchpress.com From a sweet-looking cupcake to a Stash Books, www.roundhousegroup.co.uk little darling mouse, these projects are The Useful Booklet Company, T: +44(0)1761 439825, completely adorable. www.heatherworks.co.uk

craftfocus 85

acid

insurance solutions Craft Focus readers put their insurance queries, concerns and questions to leading brokers T.H. March Neil McFarlane, sales and marketing director, of T.H. March & Co Limited

minimum security occupied by the business e.g. fire damage to What is the minimum security condition stock and contents. It is a policy requirement within a policy? that such physical loss or damage must also be Q insured. The gross profit indemnity enables the Neil says: Most, if not all insurers that provide business to pay its standing charges, including cover for business premises impose a minimum payroll, and recover its net profit during the level of security within their policy wordings. indemnity period. The indemnity period is the TheA condition will require certain types of lock period selected as being the time needed to be fitted to the final entry/exit doors and to restore normal trading levels with the windows, and in certain cases, a specific type of minimum period permitted usually 12 months. alarm with a number of features among other Working expenses such as postage and security requirements. A copy of the particular discounts allowed are not normally included illness insurer’s standard can be requested when a in the calculation as they vary directly with the I am looking for a robust policy but want to quotation is provided. It is very important you turnover. The policy also covers increased cost know how I will be covered if I or a family comply with the condition. of working expenses incurred in order to avoid Qmember become ill? a reduction in turnover like renting alternative premises, subject to it not costing more than Neil says: When you’re fit and healthy it is the loss likely to have been suffered. The policy difficult to tell what you or your business might may also extend to cover interruptions caused Aneed, or how you’d feel if you were diagnosed by damage at the premises of customers or with a critical illness or suffered a long term suppliers, or resulting from failure of utilities or disability. It is even more difficult to imagine murder, suicide, or outbreaks of food poisoning what would be happening if you had died. You or infectious/contagious diseases occurring at might want to know that any borrowings can your premises. be paid off, that your business can continue to trade and make money and more importantly what’s what that your family will be able to pay the bills. When insurers mention, contents, stock and Take advice to make sure the cover you have Qtarget stock – what do these mean? has been correctly arranged and will give the right people the right amount of money at the Neil explains: right time. Also, make sure you have a will and Contents – Includes plant, machinery, that it is up to date. Does your business know equipment, tenant’s fixtures and fittings all what will happen if you are no longer there? C Acontained in the premises. Stock – Includes unfinished materials and Further information packing materials. Should be insured on the T.H. March is a well-established family loss or damage cost price, and not retail price. business founded in 1887. With offices in I am looking at renewing my policy and my Target stock – Any stock that is attractive London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, insurers mentioned business interruption to a thief. Can include (but not limited to) Sevenoaks and Yelverton near Plymouth, Qinsurance, what exactly is it? jewellery, watches, precious metals, compact the company has departments covering discs, electrical goods including computers, furs, household, motor, travel, commercial and Neil says: This covers loss of gross profit clothing, cigarettes and alcohol. Not all insurers scheme insurance. To find out more visit following a reduction in turnover as a result of have the same stock type as target, so if in www.thmarch.co.uk. lossA or damage to property at the premises doubt, ask your insurer or broker. craftfocus 87 the cotton patch – a family concern

With a good quilting knowledge and skills in negotiation, purchasing and importing Jean and Geoff Sewell were on to a winner from the start

What are the origins of this family haberdashery. When we began we didn’t Do you have any lines that are exclusive business? realise how recently rotary cutters had to you? It was in 1990 that Jean and Geoff Sewell improved life for patchworkers by being able We are the European distributor for Handi established The Cotton Patch as a patchwork to cut efﬁciently and quickly using an acrylic Quilter and Grace products. We produce and quilting business on the outskirts of ruler and a self-healing mat. These continue to our own ranges of charm packs, strip rolls Birmingham. With Geoff’s knowledge of be our best-selling product lines as they are (some manufacturers call them jelly rolls) and negotiating, purchasing and importing and invaluable to patchworkers. patchwork palettes (sometimes referred to as Jean’s quilting knowledge and ability to select layer cakes). This enables customers to get a attractive fabrics, the business had an edge Have you expanded the range of wide range of fabrics which are co-ordinated from the start and the pair began by sourcing products offered in store? or themed at a reasonable price without to the fabrics and other products direct from Our aim is to be a one stop shop for buy fabrics by the metre. manufacturers in the USA rather than buying patchwork and quilting supplies. The range from wholesalers in the UK. of products on offer is now over 5000 and How do you ensure you compete with includes everything from needles and pins the larger craft multiples? Why did your get into this business? to the latest long-arm quilting machines and By being a specialist shop we can stock a wider Jean was a patchworker and found 100 frames. We have over 2000 fabrics on the bolt range of products than the craft multiples can. percent cotton fabrics were hard to source. and offer one of the largest ranges of waddings We offer competitive pricing and are often She and Geoff frequently went around jumble in the UK. Thread is increasingly important to less expensive than the craft multiples because sales trying to ﬁnd good fabrics suitable for quilters and our thread ranges will continue to we buy direct from manufacturers where we quilts. Geoff became very adept at recognising expand over the next few years. can. We visit the States on a regular basis to the difference between 100 percent cotton, stay abreast of the latest developments and poly/cotton and polyester! Clearly there was have staff that are passionate about patchwork a gap in the market. Geoff had a premises that We complete effectively with and quilting who can advise customers by he had recently purchased and the business the craft multiples because we telephone or email, in the shop and at shows. was launched… now three generations of the Sewell family work in the business. have staff that are passionate Do you offer a workshop programme? about patchwork and quilting We’re launching a new range of workshops What did you initially stock? starting in October 2011. These include A selection of cotton fabrics (and some poly/ who can advise customers courses for beginners, intermediate patchwork cottons on the roll initially), books from the by telephone, in the shop, at classes and introductory courses on machine USA, lots of specialist quilting tools (notions) shows and via email quilting, the Marti Michell Block of the Month such as Omnigrid mats and rulers and some program and a new Marti and Me Club.

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How important is your webshop to you? something large businesses fi nd diffi cult to do. arm machine for their quilting. The CE certifi ed The website is an integral part of our business We also use Twitter and have three blogs machines from Handi Quilter close this gap for and enables new quilters to fi nd us easily. We which enable us to give updates on the customers in Europe. We offer local support, have a website that is our main ‘shopfront’ at wider patchwork and quilting world as well installation, servicing and telephone support www.cottonpatch.co.uk, an information site as products. These methods together with for our customers. at www.cottonpatch.net and some subsidiary traditional magazine advertising and web sites which specialise in niche products which advertising are used for marketing. We What are your plans for the future? may appeal not just to patchwork and quilters produce regular printed newsletters which We are in the process of building an extension but also to other markets. These are www. are mailed out to a large part of our database to our existing building onStratford Road. rotarycuttershop.co.uk for rotary cutters and so that customers who don’t have access to The continued growth of the craft areas and blades, www.scissors-shop.co.uk for a large the internet can see some of the range of especially patchwork and quilting means that range of scissors and mightybrightuk.co.uk for products we have on offer. we are constantly sourcing new products and Mighty Bright lights which are LED book and developing the business. The future is very crafting lights. We also have a separate site “The future is very bright for bright for patchwork and quilting and as a for our subscriptions at www.cottonpatch- recent survey concluded – quilting is good subscriptions.co.uk where people can sign up patchwork and quilting and as for you. In the article published in the Journal for specialist patchwork and quilting magazines a recent survey concluded – of Public Health, Emily Burt and Jacqueline as well as our fabric clubs. quilting is good for you” Atkinson studied members of a quilting group to ascertain the link between quilting Do you utilise social media platforms? and wellbeing. The study found that the Increasingly social media has become an What do you think the biggest trends for process of quilting and the links within a important part of our business. Since we the coming season will be? quilting group provided a whole range of launched our Facebook page in March We setup our Cotton Patch studio a year ago positive wellbeing factors. the number of visitors who have ‘liked’ us to establish a centre of excellence for machine Not only was the joy of expressing their is over 1000 in the space of fi ve months. quilting. Customers can see a range of quilting creativity, the use of bright colours in the That continues to grow every day and the machines and frames from manufacturers patchwork fabrics found to be uplifting, relationship is a very direct way of connecting including Handi Quilter, Grace, Pfaff and the production of quilts and sharing that with our customers. Since we use Facebook Janome. We see this area developing strongly end product by giving to family, friends or ourselves it’s easy to respond to comments in the UK and Europe as it has done in the organisations such as Project Linus was also during the evening and at weekends which is States as increasingly customers want a longer found to be positively healthy! Finally the social side of quilting, the sharing of skills, the encouragement and motivation of others and the support that a quilting group offered was also noted as a signifi cant factor. So for many of our customers it could be that the latest quilt that they are planning could make them feel happy in lots of different ways. We feel pretty happy about that too. C

Further information The Cotton Patch T: +44 (0)121 778 5327 E: [email protected] www.cottonpatch.co.uk

craftfocus 89 business link 91 focus craft When your customers are talking, talking, customers are When your buying they’re personThe average speaks at a rate of 125 are physically You per minute. to 150 words of hearing capable upwards of 1,000 words is talking to you So when someone per minute. Never interrupt your customers your interrupt Never important...and they’re think and feel People you interruptthey are! If you customer, your to them that they aren’t important. are saying to are more likely and you turn, your Wait wrapping a plaster around Try the sale. make so tight that it hurts ﬁnger your just to remind yourself to shut up and let the customer talk. they came in to buy. It’s better to be wrong It’s they came in to buy. than right and poor! and rich,

Provide excellent customer service excellent Provide by Customers love power Customers love There is a certain customers of power feeling when they are walking into a retail shop have ARE the customer and therefore They or store. the years, Over that they are in charge. feel become accustomed to the old they have Though right.’ ‘the customer is always adage certainly we right, need they are not always them more than they need us so let them be rude or right when they are obnoxious, even right - let them be want revenge If you loud. item than and then sell them a more expensive from the department stores and larger chains more important this is even for increasing, enterprises).SMEs (small and medium sized customer service these seven following points: goes a long way goes a long

There is no substitute for good customer There is no substitute for There are seven customer service points that have proven to be effective to be effective customer serviceThere are seven proven points that have in ensuring customers and comfortable that your relaxed and feel with you Waller Nick says it makes them and see what difference Try store. your service. After all, that’s really what you’re what you’re really that’s After all, service. a better have Someone else will always selling. a larger range of stock and at better location, Excellent customer serviceprices. is what will With competition put more money in the till. We all have certain all have shops or restaurants that We to frequent because of the service like we we The from the people that workreceive there. shop who calls you waitress at the local coffee mean what you exactly name and knows by The assistant at usual. your ask for when you the dry cleaners you how exactly who knows clothes cleaned and pressed and your like every sure that they are done that way makes The craft who shop owner on time. time, and often puts a little like what you knows you. something aside to show

a little effort at 150 words per minute, what do you do with • A total understanding of the sales process What matters is what the customer the other 850 words left over? You probably • People knowledge wants, not what you like or think is best. The get distracted and concentration becomes • Product knowledge moment you can sell the merchandise that you very difﬁcult. Take on the burden of listening • Complete knowledge of stock holding personally dislike with as much enthusiasm as more than talking and you will have a more the merchandise you love, that is the moment involved customer. Research shows that when ‘Winging it’ is the problem. When you wing you can begin to call yourself a professional. customers are talking, they are, in a sense, it you have a very difﬁcult time controlling Listen to your customers and show enthusiasm buying. It’s when they are quiet that you’re the sale, and making your customers feel while you help and steer on the items that in trouble. comfortable enough to buy. they want or need.

Conversations should be two-way Certainty is the key Retail selling today is remarkably different Have you ever tried to get into a conversation The amateur wonders if customers are going than in the past. With more and tougher with a customer who finds talking almost to buy. The professional knows they are going competition, consumers have much more impossible? Quality questions have always to buy - it’s only a matter of what and how of a choice of where they shop, and more driven a fine presentation so your ability to ask much. Certainty comes from the accumulation importantly, where they shop more than once. specific questions to draw answers from your of knowledge and experience. People who customer is essential. When all else fails, the choose to shop with you have a conscious or Start using the customer service points in this easiest way to get a customer to start talking is even a subconscious desire to own what you article. You can set yourself apart from your to close the sale. This sounds ridiculous, but no are selling. So unless you have a crystal ball, competition and build a loyal customer base - matter where you are in the conversation, this assume everyone is going to buy and start you just have to dare to be different! C puts the burden on the customer to tell you your journey into finding out what it is. how they feel about the offer. You might find they start to talk once the sale is completed! Sell with enthusiasm whether you love it or hate it Further information Stay in control Selling merchandise you like is certainly easier Nick Waller is Sales Director for UK Flooring Left to their own devices, customers will than selling anything you dislike. You may like a Direct, the UK’s leading online flooring run you around the store causing all sorts of particular range, item or brand and never want retailer. Nick can be contacted on confusion, most of the time resulting in no sale. to show alternatives, or you may be bored by T: +44 (0)2476 012 181 Control can be maintained in any sales the same old stock and only want to show M: +44 (0)7817 249 882 presentation if the following things are in place: what’s new. E: nickwaller@ukflooringdirect.co.uk

92 craftfocus CREATIVE FILMS

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If you don’t give your rubbish due care and consideration, you could end up much poorer, and a criminal to boot, warns Jason Mohr, Britain’s king of waste carriers and the founder of AnyJunk

Rubbish disposal has been in the spotlight since The rules don’t only apply to a number of local authorities started charging for disposal of waste at tips. I am constantly businesses – householders being asked questions about the regulations have the same duty of care and legalities of dumping junk. It’s all about a ‘duty of care’, whether you’re when it comes to transferring dealing with trade waste or household rubbish. or disposing of waste. Simply put, this means you are obliged by law to get rid of your rubbish responsibly. Everyone )Store and transport waste securely with rubbish to dispose of should be aware that and safely without risk to others or the they should comply with ﬁve key requirements: environment.

)If you hire a third party to remove or of £5000 on summary conviction and an transfer waste, they must be licensed waste unlimited fine on indictment. This means that carriers. irresponsibly dealt with rubbish can leave you seriously out of pocket as well as with a )Waste must only be disposed of at facilities criminal record. that are licensed to receive it. Of course you can avoid having to be concerned about any of these regulations by )If you transfer commercial waste to another simply calling a professional rubbish clearing party this must be recorded on a waste service, such as AnyJunk. They will handle all the transfer note, which should be kept for at least messy details (literally) and you can have every two years. confidence that your rubbish will be cleared with the utmost care. C )If you transport building or demolition waste (this includes the waste generated by refurbishment) you must be registered as a waste carrier with the Environment Agency. Further information These rules don’t only apply to businesses Any Junk provides an on-demand rubbish – householders have the same duty of care clearing service and is the UK’s leading when it comes to transferring or disposing of provider. They recycle 80 percent of the waste. Don’t give up your junk to anyone who rubbish it collects. Jason Mohr founded the is not lawfully authorised to handle it. company and after starting out with just one The penalty for ‘breaching your duty of van, now has a turnover of £5 million. care is a fine up to the statutory maximum

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business tips 97

® C focus craft .

or visit the website or visit the website Once you have considered all these areas, areas, considered all these have Once you +44 (0)1454 454 500 www.yankeecandle.co.uk and advice about business success telephone and advice about business Further information Candle Yankee For further information on The till of By taking an unbiased look at the layout planning before effectively or by store, your a huge difference can make you launch, you One consideration customersto how shop. till - the is the positioning of your to make to be most successful position has proven This is an area on the right entrance. of your customers generally fail to stop in after they are till here you By placing your browsed. have utilising prime the important selling points for factors products! - your the six Ps put will have without realising you and honestly if answered into practice and, ‘pretty poor will ensure you from fresh eyes, store. is not a factor in your performance’ that is not selling well and is this because it and is this that is not selling well By is in an area where customers rarelyvisit. positioning essential items at the back you will encourage customers to walk all the way other products in order to browsing through, can You entered for. reach the item they initially and therefore ‘path’ to create a use displays in essence guide customers the floor, around want them to walk and planning where you them to stop like would which products you and view. – what works – what All four corners All four are going you also need to consider how You to attract customers corners to all four of Is there a particular collection outlet. your There are key focal points in every focal There are key store which generally attention attract customers’ these in mind when so keep other areas, over looking at the positioning of products in your When a customer enters the store they outlet. Keep the area where they generally turn left. enter clear as this is the area they use to get The comfortable and acclimatise themselves. right customers wall is where most of your will look and stop first so this should be a key clear but creative store for point in your focal products. and affordable displays Understanding your brands Understanding your Understanding the brands sell and you allocating the correct amount of space to them sales information Use your to success. is key brands need to allocate any you to discover doubling In some instances by more space to. currently dedicate the amount of space you to a successful brand offering and therefore customersyour more choice in their favourite profits. increasing your see you products may points Focal customers. You need to utilise all the space You customers. of types so consider if there are any have, you such as table don’t already use, you displays counter top spinner stands and even displays, add-on sales at the till. for displays selling & what doesn’t Does this need to be increased because Selling space you this figure, established have Once you retail space you much need to consider how this goal and how need in order to achieve The type to maximise this space. are going you use are highly you of shelving and displays important stock much how as this will affect sell and promote to your can physically you you are looking at expansion or are you not at expansion or are you are looking you thought? initially as you creating as much A good approach is to begin with understanding need to make the money you a viable outlet in order to have from your the initial set removed have Once you business. money much how wages and utilities, up costs, a successful to bring need do you in to have retail outlet? Doing the maths Preparation is key Preparation are consideringWhether you opening a retail a long-standing outlet or looking to improve the be it in a high street location, business, heart tourist destination of a residential village, preparation is spot or on the world wide web, preparation “perfect prevents The six Ps - key. - are a good guide pretty poor performance” retailer would established A well to follow. benefit from regularly taking time out to consider their preparation and presentation, scrutinising of from the eyes their business standing back and being honest a customer, with themselves. In a new series of articles for Craft Focus, Clive Harper, managing director of Yankee Candle® Yankee managing director of In a new series of articles Harper, Clive Craft for Focus, He has been a success of a retail business. to make what it takes will be highlighting Europe, on to over successfully the company taking Europe since its first Candle® day, Yankee with he shares some of his Here, 4,000 wholesale trading accounts and 220 concessions nationwide. what doesn’t expert on what works knowledge and more importantly, in sales one stitch at a time

Stitch by Stitch is a dream come true for Sally Kemp, whose hope and aim is to keep traditional embroidery alive

What inspired you to start your business? stumpwork or box kit has a clear instruction Having spent the past 12 years at home due booklet with stitch diagrams. to a near fatal car accident, which rendered me disabled, I decided it was time for a big How do you choose the components for change. It was time to make use of a talent the kits? that my City and Guild embroidery tutors I endeavour to use the best quality materials kept telling me I had. I was also encouraged I can find. Noil silk gives a matt, slightly and helped by family and friends, including textured surface which helps to enhance the new friends I had met through my many embroidery. The 100 percent cotton lining embroidery workshops. I also had a need to fabric is a firm quality cotton which provides feed my passion for enlightening others to the the support to hold the embroidery. The enjoyment of stitching. majority of the kits have DMC stranded cotton threads in them, used because of their What products do you offer? vibrant colours and sheen. Stitch by Stitch offers a range of stumpwork (raised embroidery) kits. These are mostly “If approached step by step, or inspired by our native insects and flowers, including the bumble bee, dragonfly, cabbage rather stitch by stitch, the kits can white butterfly, large white daisy and the field be sewn by a raw beginner, or an poppy. There are also three exotic butterflies experienced stitcher who’s looking stitched on organza. We are also just about to for something a bit different” add some ladybirds and pansies to the range. To complement these, there are also two box making kits which can be used as a foil for the Which are your best selling products? stumpwork or any other stitched treasure. My bumble bee, dragonfly and the field poppy are proving to be the best sellers, with repeat What do the kits contain? orders coming in. The bumble bee is true The insect or flower kits contain noil silk to size and once stitched is fluffy, cute and ground fabric and 100 percent cotton fabric life like, prompting closer examination. The plus all other materials (threads, wires, beads dragonfly is beautiful with its shiny beaded and needles) needed to complete the kits. The tail and organza wings and the field poppy box kits contain the mountboard (cut to size), is striking with its bright red petals, black wadding, threads and needles, etc required centre and stamen, also true to size. The four to stitch the boxes. These also have noil silk inch box closely follows the above kits in fabric for the outer faces and 100 percent popularity, sometimes being sold with a bee cotton fabric for the inner faces. Every or dragonfly to adorn its lid.

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What means do you use to promote What are your future plans? Personally speaking your business? I intend to expand my Stumpwork range Now for a bit of ﬂesh on the bones of I visited CH+SI at the NEC in February with more insects and flowers and eventually Sally Kemp and met up with my first three contacts who to produce other types of embroidery kits all placed orders there and then. I also met - crewel work, hardanger and blackwork to Favourite colour - Red, vibrant down other prospective contacts and left on ‘cloud name a few. Hopefully, I will also continue to wine. nine’. I have booked a stand in the Bright to run small friendly workshops which allow Favourite fruit - Nectarines, sweet Sparks Pavillion, at next year’s fair. Other me to meet interesting people. Workshops are and juicy. than that I have invested time telephoning always fun, social times with like minded folk Favourite tipple - Rose wine with a meal any embroidery/craft shop which I can find who end up as friends. I have so many more or dark rum and coke to relax. a number for (from ads in magazines and ideas in my mind it’s hard to decide which Favourite type of food - Good old old craft fair catalogues, etc). Once I have one to do first. This is just the beginning! C English roast, especially lamb drowned in introduced myself and they are interested to mint sauce. know more I follow up by post with pictures Favourite soap opera - Has to be and information. And of course I advertise in Eastenders, although I must admit I watch Craft Focus and other magazines. them all! X Factor or Strictly Come Dancing? - How do you feel the market is at the Strictly as I am always envious of how moment? toned the contestants end up and only I feel that the craft business is on the up, with wish it could be me. people realising we are not a throw away How do you unwind in the evening? - society any more. Not that I throw anything Stitching in front of the telly watching ﬁlms away - it may be useful in another project! or soaps, with my cat curled up on my lap Embroidery is becoming acceptable as a and my Scottish Terrier dog by my side. worthwhile pasttime once again. Stumpwork Best moment of your life - Seeing my is a form of embroidery not commonly found daughter and my son each get married as a kit and because of this (hopefully) I to lovely partners and being happy - two have found a niche in the market! The kits moments really! make ideal presents, especially at Christmas, Must read book - Anything by James which will now be on traders’ agendas. Patterson or Clive Cussler.

In your opinion what is the next best thing Further information in embroidery? Sally Kemp, Stitch By Stitch, Definitely more stumpwork designs. They T: +44 (0)770 211 0186 provide a textural, 3D finish which is unusual, E: [email protected] looks stunning but is easy to achieve.

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craft clubs

club together

Holding craft clubs or classes in your shop might seem like an optional extra but Becky Williams looks at why it’s a must in today’s retail world

Most craft shops are run by people who are passionate for the craft, and many of you will already have your own club that meets in the shop. But are you utilising your club to enhance your business? There are numerous ways to make a craft club beneﬁcial to your business.

Creative utilisation It goes without saying (but we will anyway) that craft clubs are a wonderful way for your customers to meet other like-minded crafters, If you contribute in some way to the club, share their passion for the craft and encourage each other’s creativity. you can steer members’ creativity towards By holding the club in your shop, your shop becomes part of that products that you stock. creativity and if customers link their sense of creativity to your shop, they are likely to be loyal to you with their business. If the meetings are regular, you’ll also get a set of your ideal customers coming into keen to stay up-to-date with new product developments and many will the shop on a regular basis. appreciate a demonstration of new products, especially if using them Clubs are also a great way to encourage new crafters, who might involves learning a new technique. Craft manufacturers regularly release be nervous about learning a craft on their own. Many retailers offer new products and some will even provide you with promotional packs, clubs for complete novices, with the reassurance that the club leader or you could invest in some promotional packs yourself and give them (or shop staff) will be on hand to offer help if they encounter any to the club. problems. They are then also able to give buying advice on the best You can also utilise the club to act as your ‘test audience’ for new products for newcomers. products. You could give them some new products, or just tell them Other clubs usually have a range of abilities, where club members will about the products, and see how they react – if they are keen, that’s a inevitably share ideas and sometimes products – this may good estimation that they will sell to your wider customer base. naturally lead to crafters buying products from you to expand their crafting opportunities. However, if you contribute in some way to the Starting a club club, you can steer members’ creativity towards products that you If you don’t already have a craft club, how do you go about setting up stock. That contribution could be just giving some products to the club, one in your shop? Talk to your customers about holding a club in the or it could be demonstrating products to the club. If you do choose shop and see what interest you get. If they already go to a club that’s the demo route, be careful to avoid being pushy – a hard sell will only held at a local community centre or village hall, get in touch with the alienate the members of your club. Instead, give them an unbiased demo club leader and offer to hold it in your shop instead – it should save of the products and let them decide whether they like them. them money, they’ll have everything they need on hand and perhaps you Remember that committed crafters and regular customers are usually can offer them some sort of incentive like a discount for club members.

craftfocus 101 club together

Year 1 children at Bamford Primary School Craft Club enjoying ﬁnger knitting in the park. Photo by Adrian Burrows Photo by

The children at Linden Primary School loved knitting and crocheting for the CraftClub Year 4 children at Bamford Primary School Recycled Rainforest Project. (in the Hope Valley) made crochet jellyﬁsh.

If you tend to have customers with very busy lives, who can’t commit to a particular time or place every week, how about a ‘distance’ club or Many parents are keen for their children online club? Lots of retailers now run ‘clubs’ where they put together special packs of crafty goodies and offer them to customers on a to take part in crafty activities that will regular basis at a discounted rate. For example, Creative Quilting in entertain as well as educate. Surrey (www.creativequilting.co.uk) runs a ‘Fabric Sample Club’ where members pay £15 per year to receive ten 5x5in samples of new fabrics or machine sewing, to suit boys and girls aged eight years old up to every month. Some clubs also have a place on the shop’s website where teenagers, and they’ve all been designed with fun in mind. There are customer creations are shown off. also comprehensive teaching plans, easy-to-follow workbooks, plus Another successful online club is DoCrafts’ ‘Creativity Club’ (www. achievement certificates to give out as they master new sewing skills! To docrafts.com), which has a rapidly growing membership. When crafters find out more, T: +44 (0)845 838 7211, E: [email protected] or visit sign up, they get an exclusive free gift, exclusive content (projects, www.stitchclub4schools.com. downloads, videos and magazine back issues), an exclusive chat forum, a The Crafts Council and the UK Hand Knitting Association (UKHKA) 10 percent discount on all orders, and entry to free prize draws. Smaller also has an initiative, Craft Club, to provide children and young people retailers might not be able to run an online club of this scale, but the with the opportunity to learn craft skills from members of their club’s two basic ideas can be used by any retailer: exclusive offers community. After a successful first year with over 350 active clubs in and discounts. schools, Craft Club is expanding into community settings, where it will work on the same premise with volunteers passing on their skills to Children’s clubs others in a fun and lively environment – in this case to parents as well As well as running clubs for adult crafters, there’s also huge potential in as children. Retailers can register on the website at www.craftclub.org. running craft clubs for children. Many parents are keen for their children uk to receive e-news and regular updates on UKHKA campaigns and to take part in crafty activities that will entertain as well as educate, initiatives. Registering will also add you to the website’s map of craft especially during holidays. Most parents are willing to pay a small fee to club venues and retailers, which is now enjoying a record number of cover materials and other costs, and some might even want to come to hits. Katy Bevan from the Crafts Council said: “The campaign is going the club with their children. You could make the subject of a club session from strength to strength and we’d love to hear from retailers who are very general with an overall theme, such as ‘under the sea’, or you can involved in passing on skills within their local communities as well as make a session more formal with resource packs. from anyone who would like more details.” To find out more or to book Stitchclub is a company that provides sewing resource packs for in for one of the free seminars this autumn, T: +44 (0)20 7806 2500, children – the packs contain everything you need to run a sewing E: [email protected] or visit www.craftclub.org.uk or club for children. There are various packs available, for hand-sewing www.ukhandknitting.com.

102 craftfocus craft clubs

Arts Desire run workshops for all levels of experience, and also has a gallery space.

A craft lounge Arts Desire is an arts and crafts shop that stocks gifts, jewellery and homewares, plus it’s given up a large part of its retail space to become a ‘craft lounge’, with a gallery area and workshop space. Owner Kay Spalding says: “The Craft Lounge and the retail side of the business support each other. We sell many of the items that people would like to make, so they become a talking point to introduce people to the workshops we hold. Equally, for those who just want to buy something special and locally made, the fact that they can visit our demo days and Clubs to classes see it being designed and produced makes them feel that they have Members of your club will inevitably share skills with each other and bought something original and unique, which they have! The success those new techniques may well lead crafters to new products. You could of the workshops and the retail shop are based on know-how, a great wait for your club members to progress into new skills naturally, or you team of staff, good communication, a friendly approach and explaining can bring in expert tutors to run workshops and classes, to teach new to people that, with a little guidance, they can achieve the same results skills and generate fresh demand for products. themselves, if they come to a workshop. I’m planning on running Jennie Rayment is an expert tutor who holds classes at various shops. workshops for children and opening the shop during the evening for She says: “Successful product promotion at any craft club or in-store hen parties and ladies’ nights, where groups can get together to make workshop will really benefit retailers and customers if demonstrated by a piece of jewellery for themselves. We also have an excellent website, an expert tutor, especially one who is well known in their field of which we update regularly with new events on our calendar. The events expertise. In addition to giving a professional demonstration, they listings are sent out as a newsletter to all customers who have filled in will have many samples and completed artefacts that will help to the contact sheet, and they are also posted on our social network walls.” sell whatever product is being promoted. As an added plus, they may T: +44 (0)1603 920052, E: [email protected], have produced a book or pattern that would be relevant and could www.your-artsdesire.co.uk. be sold alongside the other merchandise. For instance, there have been many occasions when I have been teaching at a store or club where the sales of the products that I have used in my workshops or demonstration have been further increased as the participants have bought a book as well. Expert, enthusiastic and educational demonstrations will sell far more successfully than an ineffectual and amateur display of the commodities on sale. The increased sales potential will most certainly cover the additional cost of employing a master craftsperson.”

The workshops have helped in building up a community around us and we are constantly asking our customers what workshops they’d like to do. Arts Desire is an arts and crafts shop that has also given up a large part of its retail space to a ‘craft lounge’.

craftfocus 103 club together

With eight sewing machines available, the Sewing Café’s ‘sew by the hour’ service is very popular. Creative sewing weekends Another option is to run weekend retreats, offering like-minded crafters the chance to indulge in a whole weekend of their favourite craft. Jennie Rayment runs quilting and creative sewing weekends with a colleague in Midhurst, West Sussex. “We hire the whole hotel, which has 36 bedrooms, and offer our students a weekend of sewing, entertainment and fun. The weekends start at 5pm on the Friday and ﬁnish at 4pm on the Sunday. We’ve found that our attendees love to learn new skills, even those that have been sewing for many years. They also come ready to spend and love to buy extra haby, fabrics and more,” said Jennie. The creative sewing weekends are run two or three times a year and provide fully-inclusive weekend breaks. “We ﬁnd this is enough to keep the courses full everytime” she added. For further information T: +44 (0)1243 374860, E: [email protected], www.jennierayment.co.uk. C

Sew by the hour The Sewing Café in Leicestershire is a social sewing emporium that doesn’t just sell fabrics, patterns and accessories, it also has a workshop area with eight sewing machines, where crafters can access the machines on a ‘sew by the hour’ basis, like an internet café for sewers. Co-owner, Fay Hooper says: “Our aim is to make sewing as accessible and sociable as possible – we want to create an inspiring, relaxed environment. We’ve been able to do this by bringing together the workshop and the retail space – by offering both the shop and the workshops, we are giving customers the chance to truly indulge their passions.” The workshops offer a range of practical project-making, for various skill levels. The atmosphere is inviting, relaxing and homely, with tea and coffee on hand. Co-owner Becky Owen says: “The workshops have helped in really building up a community around The Sewing Café – no matter whether people by a metre of ribbon or a pattern and fabric, we always encourage them to come back and show off what they’ve made or post a picture on our Facebook page. We are constantly asking our customers what workshops they’d like to do, when is the best time for them to take part in a workshop, and making sure that we always offer something new, that caters for the full range of skill levels.“ Find out more at www.thesewingcafe.co.uk or www.facebook.com/thesewingcafe

104 craftfocus

online business - a real gem

Turning a hobby into your job is a dream for many but for Janette Anderson of south Queensferry near Edinburgh, it became a reality when she launched her business Allium, selling handmade contemporary silver jewellery and bespoke wedding tiaras

The former secondary school English teacher silver designs until eventually Janette left the the local university with helping her mum discovered a love for making jewellery after classroom to set up her own business. explained: “When mum decided to open a an injury to her back seven years ago left her Earlier this year, Janette made the decision retail studio, we knew that we had to have temporarily unable to work. With time on to take her business to the next level and a website where we could sell the products her hands and pretty much housebound, she set about opening a small retail studio in too. We are fortunate to live in a beautiful began making simple beaded jewellery pieces her hometown of south Queensferry, just town, which is home to visiting cruise liners and soon discovered that not only did she outside of Edinburgh, where she sells her own and sees a huge volume of day trippers. With have a real passion for jewellery making, but jewellery and other locally made craft items, this in mind, we knew that a website would also a natural ﬂair.Together with her daughter as well as putting her teaching experience be a really useful addition to the business, Kirstin Heggie, she enrolled on a number of to good use, running a number of jewellery allowing those people who have visited the silversmith and precious metal clay courses and making classes. studio as part of a short visit to the town, the progressed from her simple beaded designs As if that were not enough of a challenge, opportunity to buy from us again no matter to more complex, contemporary pieces. She at the same time Janette and Kirstin decided where they are based in the world.” started to receive bridal commissions for tiaras to take their business online. and was increasingly asked to create bespoke Kirstin, who combines a full-time job at “As a big online shopper myself, I just knew that if we could create an appealing website that showcased the beautiful products that we create, then we could definitely sell them over the web.

Kirstin continued: “I started researching the various options available, but many of the choices out there were very expensive and quite time consuming, especially for a small business such as ours. Then I read about Super Simple Shop in Craft Focus and it seemed to ﬁt our requirements just perfectly.” Super Simple Shop has been designed to provide small and hobbyist retailers with a platform to tap into the lucrative online sales market without the need for expensive websites and backend technology. It provides a solution for businesses like Allium, who are looking to expand their channels to market

106 craftfocus focus on... 107 focus craft C Further information +44 (0)131 319 2140, T: Allium Online, [email protected], E: www.alliumonline.com find out more about Super Simple To packages and cost effective flexible Shop’s +44 (0)191 645 0389 or visit T: www.supersimpleshop.com. good having a website but it won’t do us any do us any it won’t but a website good having Thankfully, don’t drive trafficgood if we to it. Super Simple Shop has a great online forum can go to seek advice from where you others as some in similar positions as well help documents to help with comprehensive issues such as using social media to boost trafficwebsite users, - so twitter and facebook Allium in the expect to hear a lot more from near future!” “We are also looking forward to expanding are also looking forward “We Kirstin more admits that there is still much customer can more or less picture themselves customer can more or less picture themselves wearing the jewellery coming without actually in to contact with it. the range add to the website, of items we selection of beads and such as our growing our handmade jewellery making equipment, textiles and our range of local original prints Another aspect of the and photographs. is like really Super Simple Shop design we the option to add information about other Associated People workpeople we with in the some of us to showcase This allows section. our talented local artists and adds another dimension to the website.” needs to do to capitalise on its the business She and drive customersnew website to it. began to promote not really have “We said: and it is all well should; we the site the way Kirstin explained: “The fact that visitors to Kirstin explained: Allium Online has already generated sales “We also liked that we can add news that we also liked “We “We did not want to spend a huge amount did not want to spend a huge amount “We the site have felt the need to call us in person felt the site have placing an to discuss their requirements before order has made me evaluate the information Our photography is are providing. that we realise that we I now of a high standard but need to expand on our product descriptions so that the with exact dimensions and sizes for the business but interestingly to date interestingly but the business for been closed via the sales have the website a great learning which has proved telephone, the business. for exercise articles and link back to social media channels such as twitter and facebook which was a real wanted “After choosing the design we bonus. needed to all we stylish templates, from a few was upload photos and descriptionsdo really which was surprisingly of the products, straightforward and within 24 hours had a we transactionalfully up and running.” website of money or indeed time setting up a website of money or indeed time setting up a website so the fact that Super Simple business, the for Shop was more or less a ready-made website, subscription than cost little more and a year’s appealing. made it really a typical night out, a website didn’t just want we more, What’s wanted to be able as a sales platform we but with communicating for to use our website customers – be it class times or what the is up to. business by selling their products online or for people or for selling their products online by no real have who produce products to sell but friendsoutlet to sell them beyond and family.

art materials art in the name of art Louise Fisher gets the lowdown on art supplies from four of the biggest names in art

Art is a wide ﬁ eld and like lots of crafts, it’s particularly good for those cold winter months as it’s mainly an indoor activity. We quizzed Daler Rowney, Winsor & Newton, FW Brushes and Derwent distributor Acco about which products sell well, consumer buying habits and which trends we’re likely to see emerging over the festive period.

DALER-ROWNEY We spoke to the guys at Daler-Rowney to any surface. With original and heavy body fi nd out what sells well and what’s going to versions, our System 3 acrylics are highly be hot this winter, from pencils to paints versatile, water-based acrylic colours. They and pastels... offer an excellent painting experience at an affordable price. System 3’s comprehensive What trends have you seen emerging this range of colours offers excellent light-fastness, year in art supplies? permanence, durability and covering power. Acrylics have gained in popularity over the All acrylic colours can be thinned with water Which products do you supply to cater for years and are now the painting medium of to pale washes, or used directly from the those interested in watercolours? choice. Nowadays many leading contemporary pot or tube; each dries quickly to create an We supply a selection of watercolour artists use acrylics as they possess very insoluble fi lm. Our System 3 acrylics are fully pencils which include pigments chosen for different properties to oils or watercolours. intermixable, suitable for interior use and all their smooth, consistent performance and When dry, acrylics lose their solubility very but the fl uorescent colours are lightfast and rich vibrant colour. Artists’ pastel pencils are rapidly and this is a great advantage to painters durable (by their nature fl uorescent pigments distinguished by their soft, oil-free stroke and who wish to work quickly. A painting that are not lightfast so are not recommended for lightfast, soluble pigments with rich colours that might have taken weeks to accomplish in oil, exterior use). can be easily blended or smudged. We’ve also due to the drying time, can be completed in ensured that both our artists’ watercolour and one session with acrylics. Acrylic colours are Which are your most popular pastels? pastels incorporate the same colour codes as classed as the ‘new’ painting medium as they The whole range is very popular. Our artists’ our artists’ watercolour tubes and half-pans have only been around for a few decades. soft pastels combine the fi nest available and pastel sticks so they work beautifully as This is due to the plethora of application pigments with other ingredients to give a mixed media. All colour pencils are also end- techniques and their ability to take to virtually smooth and consistent painting experience dipped to make identifi cation even easier. through a carefully balanced range of 186 We fi nd that students and leisure painters tints. All colours come in tints of 1-4 (4 sometimes prefer to ‘discover the art of being the deepest) with each vibrant colour watercolour’ using aquafi ne, which offers derived from a precise blending of fi nest brilliant free-fl owing colour at an economical quality pigments. Each colour has the same price. Like the oil range, this is achieved by the pigment combination, which is then mixed substitution of some of the more expensive with superior quality chalk and china clay to pigments with lower cost alternatives and is produce the different tints. Our artists’ hard indicated by the word ‘hue’. The full range of pastels are also popular. They are characterised 37 colours gives rich, free-fl owing transparent by a velvet smooth mark, which stems from colour, with excellent tinting strength and the carefully prepared blend of pure pigments. working properties. All colours can be used to Finally, our artists’ oil pastels provide both an produce beautiful and delicate washes. oil and a pastel effect and do not require fi xing. To fi nd out more information contact Daler-Rowney oil pastels are smooth, easy to Daler-Rowney, T: +44 (0)1344 461000, use and have been carefully colour-matched to E: [email protected], our soft pastels range. www.daler-rowney.com

craftfocus 109 in the name of art

ACCO Acco, distributors of Derwent art supplies in the UK told us which items sell well for beginners to the craft, about upcoming trends and the best sellers in tools and equipment.

What do you forsee being a hot trend this season? Derwent continually works to improve and innovate; so far in 2011 it has launched an extensive range of new products and accessories including the wonderful Inktense Blocks. We predict that these will continue to sell well becasue they are so versatile and can even be used on fabric and silk. The colourful water-soluble blocks also complement the Inktense pencils perfectly, opening up a world of vibrant ink-like washes that are permanent once dry.

Which art equipment and tools do you find are popular with consumers? We have a popular range for every type and style of drawing. Take Coloursoft, one of the most popular ranges; we believe this pencil is the UK’s softest ever colour pencil, with a beautiful velvety feel, that releases rich dense colour at a stroke. The Derwent Aquatone range bridges the gap between pencils and paint; a solid stick of watercolour that you can pick up and use like a pencil, or take colour directly from the stick with a paintbrush. Highly water-soluble, Aquatone is a fantastic way to paint! Derwent has a lot of useful tools to help consumers with their drawing WINSOR & NEWTON and painting, the latest ingenious invention is the ultimate sharpening tool. The most effective way to sharpen a pencil is with a craft knife – though We spoke to industry veterans Winsor & Newton for the this is not always that easy or safe. The sharpening stand keeps the pencil in lowdown on paints. a safe position and all you have to do is run the knife along the tip of the pencil. What are the different types of paints available and which type do you find is most popular? What ranges do you have that are particularly popular for consumers Painters now have a choice between various types of new to the craft? watercolour, acrylics, oils (traditional, water mixable, alkyd) To make pastel drawing even easier - Derwent has released pastel pencils – and gouache but this hasn’t always been the case. The earliest all the beauty of pastels with the control of a pencil. The pastel range, both found paints date back to pre-historic times: watercolour blocks and pencils, was reformulated in 2010 to create a collection with a paintings of animals and hands in caves. A simple mixture of soft and powdery texture that blends beautifully. pigment, water and binder, watercolours rely on excellent pigment quality. Both gouache and watercolour are used For more information contact Acco, T: +44 (0)1900 609590, following a ‘staining’ technique where the colour is absorbed E: [email protected], www.pencils.co.uk. and binds into the surface so it is important to use absorbent surfaces such as watercolour paper. During the Renaissance, oil colours began to emerge. Instead of water, different oils were used to mix and bind the pigments allowing thicker layers of paint and the use of canvases. Slow drying, oil paints allowed the artist to experiment in textures and styles. The next breakthrough happened five centuries later. In 1940 the first acrylic paints were created. With a polymer base, acrylics have proven to be extremely versatile and therefore the most popular, as a wide range of mediums can be mixed into the paints to achieve various different textures (from silky thin to glossy thick) and it is waterproof, quick drying and can be used on most surfaces.

To ﬁnd out more information contact Winsor & Newton, T: +44 (0) 1562 744522, www.winsornewton.com, www.conteaparis.com

110 craftfocus UNIFORM MEMORIES

Scrapbook family history Scrapbook great days out Scrapbook cadet days past and present With our specially designed scrapbooking papers and co-ordinated embellishments you can create great memories of those days out at the ‘war and peace show’ and those get togethers with fellow ‘re-enactment’ friends.

These papers can be used for making cards for the forces, or for boys parties… the possibilities are endless... These designs are being added to as we write with vintage forces and fire police and ambulance.

Please contact Eve on the following for more information

Tel: 01273 813396 [email protected]

See us at the ‘war and peace show’ or visit our website to see details of our suppliers and the craft shows that we will be attending

3 Manor Close, Ringmer, Lewes, East Sussex, BN8 5PA

^^^K`UHZ[`IY\ZOJVT in the name of art

READING MATERIAL

Flowers in Watercolour By Wendy Tait Wendy offers readers FM BRUSH COMPANY invaluable advice on We spoke to Veronica Towey, director of marketing at FW Brush everything related to painting Company about what artists look for in paint brushes and about two new fl owers in watercolour - products which will be available in January 2012. even down to arranging the subject. She describes the How do you begin to design a new brush? process from the prelinimary When designing new brush programs we work diligently to keep up drawings to the fi nished, fi nal with the creative fl ow of our market. The artistic consumer is constantly stages. This book provides stretching the boundaries and thinking outside the box to keep their art a useful resource for those new and fresh. We try to do the same. We have created two exciting interested in leanring more programs with that in mind and believe that we are bound to help the artist about watercolours. Priced to reach new levels. RRP £8.99, Flowers in Watercolours is available in What is the fi rst of the new products? the UK from Search Press. Our Palmer brush is a short handled brush that fi ts in the palm of the hand. It works as an extension of the users hand creating a seamless How to Draw Faces connection between artist and canvas. The brush is available in both 1” and in Simple Steps 2” as well as offering a choice between synthetic and natural bristle. The By Susie Hodge brushes are great for base coating, texturing, faux fi nishing as well as for In this slender yet useful large canvases and murals book, Susie draws a wide variety of different The other new product is a double-ended brush, how does that work? shaped faces in a step We have developed Duets – a series of double ended brushes in a variety by step style that allows of shapes and sizes that simplify the artistic experience. Unique synthetics you to see the thinking combined with patented brush shapes lets creativity dance across the behind the shapes that canvas. A double ended brush eliminates the fumbling every artist does compose a face and when they need to pick up one brush while still holding the other. A quick the different stages of addition or touch up can be done by simply turning over the brush to the development. How to other side! Draw Faces in Simple Steps,RRP £4.99, Further information from T: +(001) 718-821-5939, www.fmbrush.com is available from Search Press.

112 craftfocus

prepping for xmas – your questions answered

This month industry expert Clare Rayner, answers queries on how to get ready for the festive trade without peaking too early or breaking the bank!

How soon should I dress my windows with you are missing out on a sales opportunity Your window must draw consumers into the Christmas displays? then a good time to go into Christmas display shop and include compelling reasons why they is immediately after Halloween and Bonfire should buy from you. ThisQ is a really difficult question to give a night (if you are not doing anything special to What that includes will vary massively based definitive answer to – in some locations your dress your window for then). The nights are on your offering, your customer base, your neighbouring shops will begin their festive drawing in and consumers begin to realise that location and your preferences. As Christmas feature windows early (some as early as before they know it, Christmas will be upon is one of the most important trading periods September!),A in other areas very late (into them – your window needs to remind them of for most retailers across the UK it doesn’t December). If you are in an area where the that AND draw them in! make sense to cut too many corners on costs windows are dressed early then perhaps try – granted a full animatronics display to rival and include an element of change, so they What top tips do you have to make my Hamleys or Selfridges will cost an absolute don’t get dull. Depending on the type of festive windows really stand out without fortune and would likely be overkill – but local passing traffic you might want to refresh Qcosting a fortune? a well designed festive theme, with some something about your window weekly – decent artwork and point of sale might be to feature a different aspect of your festive The most effective window displays include a a valuable investment from which you reap merchandise or a different focus for ‘call to action’ – like any form of advertising/ considerable rewards. your products. marketing media the window isn’t just about My advice would be to speak to a designer If you local neighbouring retailers don’t Awho can create the most appealing display to who specialises in retail branding, visual implement festive windows early and you feel brighten up the walk down the high street! merchandising and packaging – they will have a very good understanding of how to use design to influence the consumer and the operational considerations for implementing a quality window in a smaller retailer. Secondly I’d suggest you do a bit of analysis on your product range – what items make you the highest cash margin? If you can feature these items and include them in your Christmas displays, perhaps demonstrating how these items are crucial to achieving a key look that you’ve showcased to the consumer will encourage an uplift in sales... which, given you’ve picked out your most profitable products will translate to a good uplift in bottom line too!

I am not too keen on stocking a lot of Christmas kits because if they don’t sell, I have surplus stock that is difficult to shift. Is Qthere another way to get the festive feel into my shop and stock selection? Q114 craftfocus q&a special 115 focus craft C give them the best possible position in the give Consider giving clear signage. with store, to use the how advice and ideas for away that won’t – this is a value add products for to do (printing a flyer much cost you the consumer instance) and will given confidence to buy the items. greater a group items from select up to five – e.g. gift or a sixth and get a free of products (smaller item) free. decorations, of their own more to make them to send in etc and invite cards or to share photos of their creations can pick You facebook page. them on your might then want to a winner who you to create is here The key gift. a nice give customers – with your ‘conversation’ a inspiring them and encouraging them, celebrating their creativity! want might even customer database you Open the shop to event. to run an evening host with some drinks and nibbles guests, or get some local creatives and perhaps Getting off their ideas. customers to show enjoying shop who really people in your and product your interacting with you, to stand help you each other can really and this Christmas the crowd out from beyond! If you have a question about any aspect about any a question have If you editor@ email: simply business, of your Q&A Special, or write to: craftfocus.com House, Broseley Magazine, Craft Focus CM8 2UL. Essex, Witham, Drive, Newlands

Finally, when it comes when Finally, a lot of to promotions, with fall I work retailers that of assuming foul a means a promotion discount – and typically just end up giving they margin. away includes: promotions festive My advice for 1. people want to buy – products Feature 2. ‘mix and match’ promotion a Offer 3. customers a competition – inspire Offer 4. customer base or a a loyal have If you A If it is actually a case that your core product a case that your If it is actually can negotiate with them about reducing the sell the surplus or ebay stock on or, minimums, marketAmazon instance. place for range season then sell best during the festive make need to really – you the answer that’s from the items that impactful display ‘wow’ a don’t need to will sell best – you know you want unless you run discounts or promotions, supplier support to or have to invigorate sales. customers what your is to feature The key want to see in an exciting and engaging way.

Further information made guest has regularly the Retail Champion, Rayner, Clare TV and has contributed to various on BBC radio, appearances her shares Clare articles and opinion pieces. retail-focused of all sizes to strategies with retailers expertise in developing and channels streams revenue customer base, proﬁt, increase businesses of several is also owner/director Clare to market. The Retail Acumen, servicing sector including Retail the retail and e-mphasis Internet Marketing. Conference

Image Courtesy of Gail D’almaine D’almaine Gail of Courtesy Image A I am a great believer in allowing your customer your in allowing I am a great believer business data to be the best advice about your season previous festive your review – if you get a great deal of will sales performance you unique customer base YOUR insight as to what and in what quantity. from you want to buy are that Christmas kits sell, discover If you then order volume low are but proﬁtable, ‘when it’s them as can feature less – you to encourage those who gone’ gone it’s now do want that kind of product to buy Of course if the disappointment. to avoid are too high perhaps you supplier minimums If you’ve enjoyed reading Craft Focus magazine, why not log onto our website at www.craftfocus.com? Containing up-to-the- minute news, events and special offers, the site is updated regularly with information to help you advance your business. Special Features • Featured Articles Read our regularly updated spotlighted features whenever you wish, covering e-commerce, visual merchandising, trade show previews and much, much more.

• Back Issues Archive If you’re looking for information on a particular subject regarding your business, take a look at our back issues archive. All magazines will be sent out free of charge to qualiﬁed registered readers.

• Media Pack Download our comprehensive online media pack for a features list, advertising rates and speciﬁcations.

Find a Supplier The latest feature on www.craftfocus.com, the supplier directory, allows you to contact advertisers in the magazine for more information about their products or services. Simple to use and available world-wide 24 hours a day, the supplier directory is a reader reply service for the 21st century.

If you would like to ﬁnd out more, log onto www.craftfocus.com

116 craftfocus Wholesale Suppliers of Funky Fleece and Fur Fabrics

Premium Quality Print 15m or 35/45m rolls & Plain Polar Fleece Suitable for Fabric Retailers Neon Fleece & Manufacturers Print & Plain Micro Fleece Fabric Reference Book Mid-Weight Fleece & Samples available Print & Plain ‘Cuddle Fleece’ Custom Design Service available Lambskin & Creased Fur

Tel: +44 (0) 1745 562 120 Email: [email protected] Buy Online: www.its-sales.co.uk word on the web - a basic guide to website terminology part 3 In the final instalment of this series, Bob Scott of Loud-n-Clear.com focuses on secure ecommerce and online payment systems Secure Ecommerce Payment Providers choice of payment method. The main payment This is a term for online commerce that uses Your payment provider will, as the phrase providers in the UK market include: a variety of methods to safely take payments suggests, handle the online payments; online for goods and services. securely taking, validating and processing your - Sage Pay. Formerly Protx, Sage Pay is part customers’ payment details; confirming the of the Sage group of business software and Encryption order to you and remitting the payments to service providers. It provides a straightforward The process of transforming data using a you. When you come to choose a payment pricing model based on a monthly charge cipher in order to obscure the content. Online provider there are lots of options, but before with no set up fees, and a relatively smooth it is normally done so a third party cannot making your choice do consider: integration process with its accounts packages. access the personal information (such as credit card details) passed between user and website. - Cost: what are the charges? Is it a monthly - WorldPay is the largest of the providers fee, an annual fee plus a small percentage in the UK market and was one of the first SSL of each transaction, solely a percentage of companies in this field. Depending on the SSL stands for Secure Sockets Layer, which transaction or a set amount per transaction package selected and the level of sales, its is a cryptographic protocol used to encrypt as well as a percentage? Different pricing pricing model can include set up fees, monthly data. If a URL starts with https instead of the models will suit different users – if you’re charges, a transaction charge and a percentage usual http then the connection between your expecting a large turnover which is spread of each transaction. browser and the webpage is being encrypted. over many small transactions, then an annual Interestingly, both Sage Pay and WorldPay Most internet browsers will display a padlock fee and a lower transaction cost may make have articles on their websites recommending to tell you that the page is secure. more sense. However, if you are expecting a offering PayPal as an alternative payment lower throughput of transactions then a purely method and saying that this has increased sales Secure Certificate percentage based model may be a better bet. by more than 10 percent in some cases. PayPal Companies such as Geotrust, VeriSign and is a subsidiary of eBay but aims to provide Thawte provide SSL services to ecommerce - Speed of payment: how quickly you get payment services to more than just eBay websites. Prices vary depending on the features your money from the payment provider is sellers. Its charges tend to be slightly higher chosen but most cost from £100 per year. As an important cashflow consideration: are than other providers but as there are no set part of the service you may receive a seal or remittances on a set schedule, on demand or up or standing charges it can be very useful for certificate to display on your website. This will only paid once a threshold is reached? businesses with low transaction volumes or for provide users with the date of expiry of your those wanting to test the waters. Integration secure certificate and will only work on the - Complexity: how easy is it to integrate into is very easy using the tools provided on the domain that it is provided for, demonstrating your ecommerce site? If your site is being built PayPal site. Your customers do not need to your secure status and giving the customer and maintained by a website designer then have a PayPal account to pay you using PayPal, confidence in your website. they will probably have a preferred solution. but if they have an account they can pay you If you are using an ecommerce package then without having to enter their card details PCI Compliance there will probably be modules to integrate again and again or going through any complex The Payment Card Industry Security Standards providers into your system. Alternatively, if you validation. For this reason PayPal is quite a Council has created a set of PCI Data Security are developing the site yourself you will need popular option for customers. C Standards (PCI DSS) which merchants must to be comfortable with the technical aspects Further information conform to. This ensure the security of of your chosen provider’s integration. Loud-n-Clear.com runs the Internet Craft Fair payment card data. It covers all aspects of and specialises in websites for craft companies handling the information, including the security - Consumer confidence is crucial: your Contact details: around getting the details on the website (and customers must trust the provider if they are E; [email protected], in any real world shops) and your business going to share their card details with them. It www.loud-n-clear.com. processes for handling and storing them. may be worth providing the customer with a

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craftfocus 119 next issue… Looking ahead to 2012 Jewellery making All the Trimmings: haby highlights trends

Learn the latest techniques for visual Kids crafts – teach merchandising them now and you’ve got crafters for life! New product showcase – an exclusive look at what’s launching at Craft, Hobby + Stitch International • Craft kits for children – the latest products to tempt them to try something new • Jewellery making – hot news, trends and products • Decoupage – Delights of needlecrafts – from stumpwork and embroidery to tapestry and crewel Plus The best in the All the latest business – advice Issue 28 industry, business December 2011/January 2012 from leading experts in Editorial deadline: 25th October 2011 and crafting news Advertising deadline: 11th November 2011 retail, ecommerce and Published on: 28th November 2011 business management

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ﬁ re in the belly We talked to Tony Nash about his very new business Craft Dragon that has got off to an incredible start

What inspired you to long and rigorous design programme and we What are your future plans? start your business? are extremely proud of it. It is so versatile Craft Dragon is committed to becoming the I have had the and offers terrifi c value for money, giving foremost provider of innovative hand-held and entrepreneurial bug professional results, time after time. In fact a portable crafting machines in the world. The ever since I was a number of the participants in our early trials Craft Dragon ImPress™ offers users endless child, and have always have actually been able to follow their dreams opportunities and there is still so much more wanted to invent a and use the machine to turn their passion for that the machine is capable of doing. product that would crafting into their own small business. We are hugely excited about the future shape industry. Our of the range and, once we’ve shown the UK story began when my wife announced her In your opinion, what is the next best thing market just what it can offer, we intend to desire to purchase a hot foiling machine to in crafting? spread our wings further afi eld and make it a undertake a variety of craft projects. Upon Without a doubt – the Craft Dragon worldwide phenomenon. C investigation, the only ones on the market ImPress™! We think it really is a fantastic were expensive, heavy and cumbersome, and piece of equipment which opens up the extremely diffi cult to set up and operate. It world of hot foiling to a whole new audience. was then that, one Sunday morning in August It is so simple that it can be worked by 2008, I decided to put my skills to the test and teenagers through to octogenarians, and Personally speaking invent one! you can even operate it one-handed so it’s Now for a bit of ‘fl esh’ on the bones of suitable for people who suffer from joint Tony Nash What products/services do you offer? immobility too. We offer the home crafter, small business Favourite colour - Gold (including wedding and events organiser), What means do you use to promote Favourite fruit - Blueberries school, or club the perfect way to be creative, your business? Favourite tipple - Red wine with our world-fi rst multi-purpose machine. Following manufacture of the fi nal product, we Favourite type of food - Fish With its unique patented die system, it attended our fi rst trade show at the NEC last Favourite soap opera - Emmerdale provides users with a simple and effective November and were amazed at the public’s X factor or Strictly Come Dancing - way of adding embellishments onto a range response, which was just fantastic. Since then, Strictly Come Dancing of items such as bookmarks, fabrics, ribbons, we have embraced all avenues to promote How do you unwind in the evening - diaries and greetings cards. We also supply all our business, spurred by the backing of Work on new projects complementary accessories to help crafters Create and Craft TV and the numerous Best moment in your life - Meeting my get started, including dies, foils, heat mats and magazines aimed at the craft market. wife Jayne and seeing life come into fi nishing brushes. the world How do you feel the market is at Must-read book - Childhood’s End by Which are your best-selling products? the moment? Arthur C Clarke We think our new Craft Dragon ImPress™ Feedback we’ve received so far has been will revolutionise the crafting world by hugely positive, from individual home crafters Further information enabling home crafters to hot foil stamp, through to schools and businesses. Crafting Craft Dragon rubber stamp, die cut and embellish with is a huge market both nationally and globally T: + 44 (0)845 398 7770 amazing clarity and precision, on a wide array with signifi cant potential, and we are really E: [email protected] of surfaces, and all with just one machine. The starting to experience a wave of excitement www.craftdragon.com Craft Dragon ImPress™ is the product of a and optimism across all sectors.

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