Craft Focus - December/January 2023/2024 (Issue 100)

41 CRAFT TRENDS FOR 2024 An increasing number of stationery and art brands are choosing to collaborate with artists to appeal to a wider audience. For instance, Caran d’Ache recently launched a collection with Keith Haring, a renowned artist whose work responded to New York’s urban street culture in the 1980s. The collection is available through Jakar International and includes pencils and colouring pads featuring Keith’s iconic work inspired by the graffiti artists whose marks covered the city’s subways. Stationery provides a canvas for so many artists. Visitors to London Stationery Show 2024 should expect to see many beautiful designs feature across notebooks, journals and diaries, as well as greeting cards, gift wrap and desk accessories. From peaceful watercolour scenes to abstract motifs and graphic typography, there will be something to suit every buyer. In a time when screens continue to dominate our lives, we’re seeing an increasing number of people down their digital tools in favour of more traditional forms. Crafting and journalling provide an output for self-expression and create a sense of calm in an otherwise hectic world. Consumers may choose a journal with a cover design that reflects their style, but it’s when the pages open that the creativity is truly unleashed. Alex Butler, Event Director, London Stationery Show www.stationeryshowlondon.co.uk As we enter 2024, the crafting and stationery landscape is undergoing significant shifts and trends. In the realm of crafting, we anticipate the continued revival of traditional techniques. Crafts such as knitting, crocheting, and cross-stitching are resurging, offering both meditative solace and opportunities for intricate craftsmanship. The colour spectrum is leaning towards a harmonious blend of pastel shades and earthy tones, creating a subdued yet sophisticated ambiance in craft projects. Equally important is the emphasis on eco-conscious crafting. At our small but environmentally-conscious company, we wholeheartedly embrace this trend. The use of eco-friendly materials, including recycled paper, organic fabrics, and upcycled resources, is poised to take centre stage. It’s a vital step towards crafting with a heightened awareness of sustainability. Be prepared to explore the ethereal realm of celestial-inspired crafts. Envision celestial motifs, galaxy-themed journals, and dreamy watercolour palettes gracing your projects! These cosmic creations infuse an element of enchantment into the crafting experience. Jo Lochhead, Founder, The Crafty Kit Company Ltd https://trade.craftykitcompany.co.uk “I believe we’re going to be seeing more of an upsurge in upcycling materials, lessening the carbon footprint of waste on the planet.” -Jay Blades When it comes to crafting, there are so many trends that look like they’re here to stay! One of these trends is upcycling. With people paying more attention to making sustainable purchases and being more mindful about their creative choices, it’s easy to see why upcycling has been hugely popular the past couple of years. Upcycling can be anything from using scrap pieces of paper, sewing and adding patches to cover up wear and tear in much-loved garments or giving a new lease of life to a piece of home décor or furniture with a lick of paint or decoration. Basically, there are so many ways to be a little more environmentally friendly with our crafting and it’s fun to try them all. Another trend that looks like it’s going to stick around for a little while longer is macrame and there are so many projects to suit every single season. And, not only that but there are macrame projects for everyone from the absolute beginner to the seasoned expert, so anyone can give it a go! Finally, another craft trend to watch out for is crochet. Crocheting has been around for years (I remember doing it when I was a kid!) and it’s had a resurgence in popularity that is set to continue in 2024, not only in the crafting community, but in the fashion world too. Sara Davies, television personality & craft enthusiast

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