Craft Focus - April/May 2024 (Issue 102)

CHSI STITCHES 2024 Read all about the new launches, innovations from entrepreneurs and inspiring business speakers at the 2024 event CHSI Stitches 2024 trade show welcomed buyers and creators to the NEC, Birmingham, to discover innovations, the latest trends and make new connections, all while promoting sustainability in the craft industry. This year’s event was themed around the 3 Ps of sustainability - People, Planet, and Profit, and attracted professionals from across the craft sector. The trade show emphasised the significance of achieving a balance among social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and economic profitability in the craft industry. The exhibition floor featured a diverse array of craft products curated by leading suppliers, ranging from traditional favourites to innovative materials. Attendees could get hands on with the latest creations from across the craft spectrum including yarns, fabrics, and craft kits. The demonstration theatre brought the products to life and gave attendees creative ideas for sales opportunities. Lisa Zorbas, from Marent Crafts said: “We’ve had lots of interest in the Gutermann multicolour threads - perfect because you only need one spool of thread to create stunning, colourful embroidery. We’ve curated a range of colour palates with the threads, neon is very on trend right now. We’ve had some positive conversations at the show with brilliantly creative businesses.” Notable trends observed at the show included continued interest in bagmaking, fun yarns for toy and accessory creation, and the introduction of new fashion yarns, signalling exciting developments in the craft market. Jo Humberstone, King Cole said: “For this show we’ve focussed on quirky yarns to make toys and accessories. Our Yummy Yarn, a chenille, is perfect for making squishies and has been hugely popular. It’s about showing people that you can create toys and accessories in any type of yarn. We’ve had a great show with lots of interest. For us, the show is brilliant for meeting new people that we  29 STITCHES REVIEW

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