Posted by Danielle Harvey on 2 April 2020
"During these unusual times where we find ourselves working from home, surrounded by our children, partners and pets, we're all just trying to find a new normal.
"For business, it's a very uncertain time, but the craft industry in particular has the components to survive - even thrive! - the current coronavirus lockdown and economy downturn. Crafting is a therapeutic hobby suitable for all ages, all abilities and walks of life, it's an industry that really is relatable to all and in this time of possible anxiety, stress and worry it's going to be the industry all of us turn to more than ever before.
"While at home, people will be online more than ever, however, we will all start missing that 'human aspect' so here at KD Events & Publishing Ltd we wanted you to meet, and get to know the team behind our stand-out trade publication Craft Focus!" - Danielle Harvey, managing editor
Rachel Westall
Editor behind Craft Focus
What do you love about being a trade editor?
I've always wanted to write for a magazine and studied English Language at Brighton University and even did work experience at the BBC working with children's magazines such as Top of the Pops! I went on to do a Fashion Journalism course and after various jobs in the media and a spell living in South Africa have found myself working for our fabulous trade title: Craft Focus!
Craft is a lovely subject to write about and people in the industry are so friendly. In this strange time of isolation it's a great source of relaxation.
What are you hating about lockdown?
I need a constant supply of biscuits and chocolate and I'm running low!
What positive thing will you be taking from lockdown?
My two children truly love their home. My daughter, Robyn, has said a few times over the past weeks: "This is the best day ever!" Also, I absolutely love British humour – all of the funny messages on social media have had me in stitches!
What are you looking forward to most about life returning to normal?
Being able to see my children playing with their friends again and the parks re-opening.
Contact Rachel: 01376 514000 | rachel.westall@kdmediapublishing.com
Sales executive behind Craft Focus
What you love about being in the craft trade?
I love the craft industry because of the creativity its brings out in all of us. This is a hobby that everyone can enjoy, whether you knit, sew or make cards, it's an industry that each individual can put their own personal stamp on (sorry for the pun).I have been in awe of the industry coming together to support those effected by COVID-19. I have been speaking to a few of my manufacturers, to get them more involved with Rainbow products; as you know children are making rainbows and putting them in their windows at home.
I have been speaking to a book publisher this morning (Search Press) who will be working with authors to generate rainbow products - I'd like to get them to the Nightingale Hospital & NHS Hospitals, but I haven't thought that far ahead as yet! We do have a rainbow-inspired product feature in the next issue of the Craft Focus. The craft industry is more of a community than an industry and has been hit hard, not just independent little craft shops closing but the manufactures too, I'm trying to get the message across, that online is still booming and the market will be back! Craft Focus is the ideal platform to get the industry working together again.
What are you hating about lockdown?
I don't seem to be in any kind of routine. I actually miss going into the office (ask me that again when I'm back in nagging everyone lol). We all seem to have lost our freedom.
What positive thing will you be taking from lockdown?
The positive from this lockdown is: I will never take anything for granted ever again.
Contact Tracy... 01376 535618 | tracyv@craftfocus.com
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