WWW.CRAFTFOCUS.COM OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER FOR CRAFT HOBBY + STITCH INTERNATIONAL AND PROUD SPONSOR OF TRENDING NOW NY NOW! All you need to know about the upcoming show Creature COMFORTS Making for your home CONSCIOUS CRAFTING Eco-friendly products Plus! Children’s crafts Ribbons & buttons Trade show news
3 CONTENTS In this issue... REGULARS 9 Industry news What’s happening within the craft and hobby market 15 Brand spanking new Brand spanking new products 78 Bookstand The latest book releases 90 Tried & tested Craft Focus Editor, Rachel Westall, trials these new children’s cross stitch kits from Bothy Threads June/July 2024 71 FEATURES 35 Eco-friendly crafts Your favourite crafts and hobbies in a more sustainable way! 43 Creature comforts Making for the home 51 Treat yourself! Crafts for under £15 57 Craft cupboard essentials Ribbons and buttons to top up your collections 63 Children’s crafts Keep children engaged and busy with these crafty products and kits! 71 Backpack essentials Back to school 74 Trend file On-trend terrazzo 60 51 FOCUS ON 39 Bothy Threads Chrissie Rayment, Managing Director of Bothy Threads Ltd talks to Craft Focus about their ever-expanding company 48 UK Hand Knitting Jamie Brett from James C Brett, Chairman of UK Hand Knitting, talks us through the exciting plans for the organisation for the rest of 2024! 60 David and Charles Rachel Macphail, Head of UK Sales at David and Charles talks to Craft Focus about their award-winning titles and a new range of notebooks coming out in 2025!
4 BUSINESS 76 Unlock the Potential of White Label Products At Spring Fair 2024, Sebastian Schyberg, Sales Manager at Sebnini Trading Ltd, led a panel highlighting the pros and cons of own brand products and how to make use of them. Here’s some of the main points we took away from the talk. 80 Crafty interiors Craft and textile enthusiast, Francesca Kletz, recently took part in BBC1’s Interior Design Masters. Here she chats to Craft Focus about her time on the show and what the future may look like... 82 Retailer interview Sandra Jervis, Owner of Creative Cove, invites us into her creative world and what it’s like inside the Lampeter based store 84 Brand protection Marking 25 years of ACID, CEO Dids Macdonald, looks at brand protection in the first of this three-part series 85 Redefining intelligence FSB Policy Chair Tina McKenzie shares how artificial intelligence is best utilised as an aid to human intelligence, not a replacement SHOWS 23 Shows, news & events Stay up-to-date with what’s happening in your industry 29 Stationery Awards 2024 The Stationery Awards recognise the greatest product innovations in the stationery sector. We reveal 2024’s winners. 31 NY NOW Matthew Mathiasen, Event Director of NY NOW, talks to Craft Focus about the trendsetting trade show that’s celebrating its 100th year in 2024! 31 63 43 74
Framing reframed UK Patents: GB2559609B GB2572341B US Patent: US10,588,434 EUIPO Trademark 17868192 ©Differentiate Design Limited Introducing FSC certified 350gsm paper frames. Each Pop-up FrameTMkit can be easily assembled to a lightweight 2.5cm box edge tray frame in multiple sizes in a few minutes with just a pair of scissors. At a price that suits crafters, schools, budding artists and anyone filling their walls on a budget. Pop-up FramesTMare ideal add-ons for on and offline craft, art, photo, print, poster and gallery shops. All these frame formats made from the Small Pop-up Frame kit (6 sizing options: 15-30cm) FSC certified, eco-friendly and sustainable solutions
7 EDITOR’S LETTER On the cover There’s Snow Place Like Home is a counted cross stitch kit by Bothy Threads, using fun, frosty artwork by Lucy Pittaway. Worked on 14 count white Zweigart Aida with pre-sorted stranded cottons and uses cross stitch, back stitch and one French knot. Available from Bothy Threads from 18th June 2024. The finished design size measures 26cm x 26cm. The RRP is £36.99. Visit: www.bothythreads.com Crafting through summer What a bumper issue we have. To kickstart, we’ve been chatting with our friends over in the Big Apple as we discuss the upcoming NY Now summer market taking place this August at the Javits Centre, NYC. Myself and many of our readers have visited and even exhibited there before and it really is a show to be reckoned with. Do check out our three-page Q&A to find out all the details... you’ll be Stateside before you know it! As we head into summer, we take on some Italian flair as we check out the terrazzo trend that’s taken the décor world by storm. You too can decorate items in your house in the funky, mosaic style - there’s some fantastic box sets to make your product with everything you need in the box! We also have a feature focussing on eco-friendly craft items. Consumers are buying more consciously and are looking for items responsibly packaged with little negative environmental impact. Shoppers are mindful of reducing waste and upcycling wherever they can, so do be inspired and bare this in mind when choosing what to stock on your shelves. Our other jam-packed features include Crafts under £15 - for those giftworthy purchases, children’s crafts and back to school! And lastly, please shout if there’s anything you’d like to see in the magazine, we love to hear from our readers. Enjoy the warmer days ahead and keep on crafting! Happy reading, Louise Prance Editor Rachel DESIGN +44 (0)1376 535 616 artwork@craftfocus.com ACCOUNTS +44 (0)1376 535 616 accounts@craftfocus.com MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis +44 (0)1376 535 602 sarah.ellis@craftfocus.com Craft Focus is solely owned, published and designed by Ellis Media and Events Ltd. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Craft Focus is published six times a year. ISSN 1758-0900 @craftfocus @craftfocusmag @craftfocus Craft Focus is proud to be associated with and supporters of: ADVERTISING Account Manager Tracy Voice +44 (0)1376 538 555 tracy.voice@craftfocus.com EDITORIAL Editor Rachel Westall +44 (0)1376 514 000 editor@craftfocus.com Marvling Bros Ltd Standout designs from Stockwell Ceramics
01628 769170 sales.uk@stabilo.com FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE GET IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM ON: STABILO Creative tips Available in 16 colours: 0.4 mm Precise drawing & sketching 0.7 mm Convenient for writing & contours 1 mm Ideal for strong lines & colouring Brush Varying the pressure on the tip, creates different line thicknesses 0.2 mm Perfect for the finest lines & details FIVE TIPS FOR ENDLESSLY CREATIVE POSSIBILITIES The NEW STABILO Creative Tips sets offer a range of tip variations, including an extra-fine 0.2 mm fineliner, two spring-loaded fineliners with 0.4 mm and 0.7 mm tips, a sturdy 1 mm fibre tip, and a flexible brush tip - all with water soluble ink. We will be demonstrating the STABILO Creatve Tips at the London Stationery Show on the 14th of May. This interactive workshop is being run by the UK influencer @kayleighs.keepsakes Come and visit the STABILO team at the London Stationery Show on stands M206 & M302 (opposite each other) where you can try the STABILO Creative Tips for yourself.
9 INDUSTRY NEWS M Courts Ltd has moved! M Courts Ltd is a small, family run wholesale company that has been trading since 1920 that specialises in haberdashery, trimmings, buttons, ribbons and lace. The company started out in the East End of London but moved from Brick Lane to Tottenham in 2002. M Courts can now be found at the following address: 2 Roman Court, Hurricane Way, Wickford, Essex, SS11 8YB. For further information, visit: www.mcourts.co.uk Industry news Latest news from the craft industry Golden Scissors Awards Craft Industry Alliance is proud to announce the winners of the first-ever Golden Scissors Awards recognising excellence in the crafts industry. The awards ceremony took place live on stage at h+h Americas at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Centre in Rosemont, Illinois. Five outstanding craft professionals were recognised in front of an audience of several hundred of their peers for their contributions to the industry. The craft industry is made up of both worldclass corporations and thousands of visionary small business owners, whose never-ending creativity continually lifts the entire sector to new heights. The Golden Scissors Awards are an opportunity for the industry to acknowledge those who have offered outstanding leadership and innovation and made important contributions to the industry as a whole. Nominations for the awards opened in January of this year and were open for a month. In March, each nominee was considered individually and confidentially by a panel of five judges nominated by the Craft Industry Alliance Board of Advisors. Judges for this year’s awards were Brittany Gray, president of EE Schenck, Ed Roth, artist and founder of Stencil1, Kate Butler, Chief Content Officer of Golden Peak Media, Kathy Cano-Marillo, artist and founder of The Crafty Chica, and Dana Williams-Johnson, assistant professor at Howard University There were five categories of awards given this year: Emerging Leader, Innovation, Sustainability, Social Impact, and Lifetime Achievement. For Emerging Leader, the award winner was Elizabeth Okeyele-Olatunji who is making a difference in the lives of countless young people in her home country of Nigeria. Through her organisation, Tunnizze Creation, she has set a goal to reach 20,000 African children with the skills of knitting and crochet. For Sustainability, the award winner was Ali Pate, an indie yarn dyer of Road Trip Sock Yarn who has worked to make every single step of her process better for the environment. From reusable materials, to printing on post-consumer recycled paper, to sourcing energy from renewable and solar and creating a home water collection system, she has collaborated with the Colorado Tree Coalition to facilitate planning trees in her home state. For Innovation, the award winners were Masey Kaplan and Jen Simonic, two co-founders who have come up with an organisation that eases grief, creates community, and inspires generosity. The Loose Ends Project matches volunteer handwork finishers with projects people have left unfinished due to death or disability and now has more than 20,000 volunteers globally who have completed 2,000 projects. For Social Impact, the award was Allyson Allen, the organiser of the Piece-ful Protest Quilt Exhibit which features 36 quilted textiles of protest art. Recognised by the State of California as an award winning Master African American textile artist and culture bearer, she organised this exhibit to be shown in Laguna Beach California where it had a significant impact in furthering the understanding of open-minded diversity and inclusivity. The Lifetime Achievement award winner was Warren Wheelock who, beginning in 1987, worked with spinning mills all over the world to develop yarn collections that would inspire makers and promote handknitting. Craft Industry Alliance co-founder and president, Abby Glassenberg, says of this year’s awards programme: “It’s so important that we have a way to honour and acknowledge those leaders in our industry who demonstrate excellence. This awards program gives all of us something to strive for and something to celebrate. These business leaders are incredibly impressive, and we’re thrilled to be able to present them with these esteemed awards.” The Golden Scissors Awards will be given annually each spring at h+h americas. Nominations for next year’s awards will open in January 2025.
10 Caran d’Ache x Keith Haring collab wins at B&LLAs The Caran d’Ache collaboration with Keith Haring won the award for the Best Brand Licensed Gifting Product Or Range at the Brand & Lifestyle Licensing Awards. Hosted by comedian Cally Beaton, the B&LLAs event was attended by over 400 retailers, licensees and brand owners, which included those from the greeting card and stationery scene such as Caran d’Ache, Moleskine, The Works, Tache Crafts, Portico Designs, Carousel Calendars, I Like Birds, and Blueprint Collections who were all among the finalists. It was Caran d’Ache’s Keith Haring Collection, distributed by Jakar International in the UK, which won Best Brand Licensed Gifting Product Or Range. Paul Sacki, Managing Director of Jakar International, accepted the award and said: “We were very honoured to accept the award for the Caran d’Ache Keith Haring collection. All the people involved in bringing this collection to life have done a wonderful job of marrying the iconic artwork of Keith Haring with the timeless design of Caran d’Ache across a wide range of writing, colouring and drawing instruments.” For more information, visit: https://jakar.co.uk Dids Macdonald recognised on Powerlist 2024 ACID CEO Dids MacDonald has been recognised on the Women in Trades Association Powerlist 2024. The Trade Association Forum (TAF), the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) joined forces to champion the role of women in trade associations, celebrate their achievements and encourage the next generation of women into the association sector. TAF, FSB and CBI are led by strong female champions and are supported in their respective organisations by brilliant women at all stages of their careers. In a joint statement they said: “It’s our shared ambition to support our own staff and other inspirational women in trade associations to be powerful advocates for diversity and inclusion in their sectors and more widely to support and encourage female business leaders and entrepreneurs.” For further information, visit: the website: www.taforum.org/women-in-trade-associations-2024-powerlist
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12 Theo brings the crowds in at LSS Theo Paphitis told a packed standing-room-only audience at day one of London Stationery Show that there is no substitute for hard work if you want to succeed in business. Theo started off with a surprise, telling the audience that as a young boy that he hated school, he hated academic studies and he hated writing. “I’m dyslexic. I couldn’t spell. My writing was a mess. In fact, the last thing I thought I would ever get involved in would be stationery.” His first exposure to Ryman came at his first job after leaving school at a London brokerage firm. “I found myself needing to write memos. The first ones I did were such a mess, they sent them back to me and told me to try again. One lunchtime I took myself down the Borough High Street and went to Ryman and there I bought a calligraphy set. I took it home and practiced every night for a week. My writing improved, but my spelling didn’t. So back to Ryman, this time to buy a dictionary. So then my spelling improved.” Fast forward to 1995 and Theo bought Ryman out of administration. Key to the success of Ryman has been linking technology to the high street store to get people into the store. And that is exactly what Ryman has done with its print on demand greeting card app. “The app enables us to offer something completely unique in the online greeting card industry using the strength of the High Street. Like others, you can download the app and personalise one of thousands of cards, but what makes ours unique is that you can then collect the card in a Ryman store within just 60 minutes. “We’re linking technology with good oldfashioned retail.” Theo was asked about his favourite products at the moment to which he replied: “Posca pens and Legami pens. I absolutely love Posca pens, I love the colours and I love playing with them. You can do so much with them. And Legami is an amazing fashion-led brand. It really is something different and new.” Summing up with some advice, not just to retailers, but any business owner, Theo said that a business will only survive “if it has a reason to exist. You must know what you are in business, what will you do differently, why will someone come to you, what is the reason they will buy from you. There is no substitute for hard work.” 40 years of Messe Frankfurt Medien und Service GmbH Messe Frankfurt Medien und Service GmbH (MFS) is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. Founded in 1984, MFS is a wholly owned subsidiary of Messe Frankfurt and now consists of two areas: Fairconstruction and Media Services. The lasting success of the Group’s very first subsidiary is founded on providing exhibitors with the best possible visibility through stand construction and marketing services. “MFS was a great success from the very beginning, characterised by steady growth and constant advancement”, says Uwe Behm, Member of the Messe Frankfurt Executive Board, looking back on MFS’s 40-year history: “From the outset, the aim was to make our exhibitors as visible as possible at our trade fairs and to drive our growth by taking on board new developments – in recent years, these were mainly led by digitalisation and sustainability.” MFS started out in 1984 focusing on traditional analogue media such as trade fair catalogues, magazines and trade fair newspapers. In addition, its range of services relating to the Frankfurt trade fair centre was rounded off by posters, advertising towers, display cases and other types of advertising materials. In 1990, it was joined by a second area, Stand Construction, which was based directly on the exhibition grounds. Focusing on building and renting fully equipped and individual stands to exhibitors, it soon established itself as the main driver of MFS’s sales. By its third financial year, it was already offering exhibitors over 260 flexible system stand variants and meeting their demands for high-quality presentation forms while aiming to avoid waste at the same time. As Martina Bergmann sums up: “Visibility is our currency. And it is of the utmost importance for our exhibitors when planning their trade fair activities: the higher our exhibitors’ profile at events, the more chance they have of meeting those customers they want to work with. It sounds simple, not least because Media Services makes it simple.” Today, the range of services – which are always geared towards exhibitors and their individual needs – includes multimedia advertising at high-footfall locations on the exhibition grounds (indoors and outdoors) and advertising on the internet or in print publications. As well as maximising visibility, this allows exhibitors and event organisers to generate a high level of attention for their brand and high reach via the Messe Frankfurt portal. Martina Bergmann: “Besides traditional trade fair media, we are including more and more innovative communication channels and platforms in our portfolio. We are also zoning in on key developments and megatrends in this area so that we can continue to provide our exhibitors with the same highly efficient support for their trade fair marketing.” For more information, visit: www.instagram.com/messefrankfurt
Alan Provisor ONLINE Fabulous range of braids tassels and cords in amazing colours. Check out the website or call me www.4trimmings.com 01204 465233 | sales@alanprovisor.com The Wholesaler UK is open 24/7/365 for retailers looking for suppliers. www.thewholesaler.co.uk sue@thewholesaler.co.uk 01608 662 298 Trade shows are back, but we never closed! Visit our website or contact us to find out how to book your “virtual” stand and take advantage of our trial listings. 1000s of product photos Detailed at-a-glance information on suppliers. Save your favourite suppliers for future visits The directory is still free to use - no registration. All listings are thoroughly vetted. We only list UK-based wholesalers What’s New? What’s Not New? lace cord fringe motifs braids tassels buttons & more barnettlawson.co.uk Wholesale discounts available from just 10 units of each item, applied automatically at checkout. Large quantities held in stock or can be ordered in especially. Visit barnettlawson.co.uk for more details.
HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW COLLECTIONS? Founded in 1834, we are Manchester’s oldest textile company. With 180 successful years trading at the forefront of the textile industry, we’re a business that you can trust. We have been supplying into all areas of the wholesale and retail markets ever since the industrial revolution, never comprising integrity. As our customer, you gain access to an international sourcing and distribution network. This is supported by our market expertise, significant experience and sound technical knowledge. BOOK YOUR VIEWING SOON Call: 0161 872 1444 WWW.BEHRENS.CO.UK LONDON LUXURY CANDLE SUPPLIES LTD Unit N, The Bartonfields Centre, Church Broughton DE65 5SG 020 8191 0802 • customersupport@luxurycandlesupplies.co.uk www.luxurycandlesupplies.co.uk Unbeatable Market Prices: We believe luxury shouldn’t break the bank. Trend Alert: Pumpkin decor is on the rise in the UK, with a staggering 50% increase over the past two years. Best Sellers: Our pumpkin candle supplies kick off the candle season, captivating customers across the UK and Europe. Get ahead of the autumn rush! Explore our pumpkin range today and use code CRAFTFOCUS10 for an exclusive 10% discount on your first order as a Craft Focus reader. Check out all things pumpkin here www.luxurycandlesupplies.co.uk/pumpkinseason.html
15 BRAND SPANKING NEW Brand spanking new Check out some new and exciting products in the current market LETISTITCH How beautiful are these new designs from Letistitch. Faerie by Mikey Bergman measures 24cm x 37cm. The kit contains Anchor floss & DMC metallic, canvas Aida 16 ct, 72 colours, a needle, charts in A3 format and clear instructions. Forest of Dreams by Bridget Voth measures 21cm x 30cm. The kit contains Anchor floss, canvas Aida 16 ct /100 White, 50 colours, a needle, charts in A3 format and instructions. +44 (0)7780 122 430 +44 (0)7469 364 150 letistitch@gmail.com www.letistitch.com EXACLAIR Covering a comprehensive range of popular themes, these latest correspondence boxes from Clairefontaine’s Pollen brand offer an ideal solution for communicating personal life events and messages. Whether sending your love or condolences to someone dear, or inviting them to a wedding, birthday, baby shower or even a New Year’s party, these boxes include all you need! Each box contains eight folded 11cm x 15.5cm sized cards, made from premium 185gsm Clairefontaine card, along with eight C6 (11.4cm x 16.2cm) sized 120gsm envelopes. Each pack features four visually striking designs, which are repeated twice. Produced from PEFC certified materials, these correspondence boxes are a sustainable choice for the ecologically aware consumer. The full range is available to display within a compact retail friendly cardboard countertop unit. +44 (0)1553 696 600 sales@exaclair.co.uk https://exaclairlimited.com
16 LAVINIA STAMPS Create your own world within a bottle, a fairy terrarium or even stamp your own message in a bottle, the choice is yours with these Lavinia Stamps Bottle Sticker Stencils. Complete the look by adding a stopper from the bonus stamp set ‘Corks’. Lavinia Stamps sticker stencils can be used as the positive and negative. Repositionable, reusable and wipeable, they are great for card projects, journaling, scrapbooking and other creative projects. +44 (0)1824 710 691 www.laviniastamps.com PEAK DALE PRODUCTS LTD Back by popular demand, Peak Dale’s Family Craft Pack returns with an exciting upgrade. Initially a sell-out success during the lockdown, the company has now revamped this favourite to make it even more engaging. Designed for creative fun across all ages, this pack comes bursting with a variety of improved contents that ensure endless hours of crafting. Perfect for family bonding, this ‘Brand Spanking New’ edition offers more value and fun than ever before. +44 (0)1298 78447 www.peakdaleproducts.co.uk DAVID & CHARLES The Tarot Spreads Year Card Deck features 52 cards and a 16-page booklet that allows beginners to get to know their tarot decks and the cards, build confidence, and find the reading methods that are most comfortable for them - all while having fun and honing their intuition. There’s also the Magic of Seeds Card Deck. Here you can discover the magic of growing plants from seed with this beautifully illustrated card deck. Featuring 52 plants from flowers to herbs, each card shows the full lifecycle of the plant, explores its uses and reveals some of the myths and stories behind its name, with a beginner’s guide to growing from seed in the accompanying 16-page booklet. +44 (0)1392 790 650 https://davidandcharles.com BOTHY THREADS Let the adventure begin with Cut Thru’ Adventure Holiday! From zip wires to horse riding, canoeing to climbing, check out this brand new Cut Thru’ design from Amanda Loverseed. Cut Thru’ Adventure Holiday has been designed in partnership with The Lake District Calvert Trust, and 5 per cent of sales proceeds directly with Bothy Threads, will be donated to The Lake District Calvert Trust, a very worthwhile cause who help people with a range of disabilities experience the Lake District in a safe and supportive way. The complete kit comes with an alphabet so that you can personalise the design for your favourite holiday destination. Bringing back memories of school trips, Cub Camp and residentials. This counted cross stitch kit is worked on 14 count ice blue Zweigart Aida with pre-sorted stranded cottons and uses cross stitch, back stitch and French knots. The finished design size is 40cm by 26cm. The RRP is £36.99. +44 (0)1900 828 844 info@bothythreads.com www.bothythreads.com
Available from all good booksellers www.makeetc.com OUT 9 JULY Untitled-1 1 22/05/2024 15:18
18 LION BRAND YARN Lion Brand Yarn is excited to introduce Mandala Gradient, the latest gem in its cherished Mandala family of yarns. The captivating ombré effect really makes this yarn stand out, seamlessly transitioning from the deepest hues to the softest tones. And no more cutting and splicing to get the same gradients: each cake within a colourway consistently mirrors the next. Each CYC #4 (Medium), 5.3oz (150g) cake extends a generous 295 yards (270m) and is made of 90 per cent acrylic and 10 per cent nylon. Easy to care for with its machine wash and dry instructions, Mandala Gradient boasts a velvety softness, making it the ideal choice for crafting garments, accessories, and home decor. Elevate your creations with the spellbinding hues of Mandala Gradient, where style meets simplicity in every stitch. International - joel.tokash@lionbrandyarn.com US - lori.naidich@lionbrandyarn.com www.lionbrand.com ZWEIGART Zweigart has two gorgeous new brochures including Flower Meadow. We love the summer months with all its floral splendour! Whether embroidered on delicate light pink like here on this Murano evenweave fabric (3984/4115, 32 ct.) or on various shades of green: the colour palette of Zweigart’s Aidas, evenweave and linen fabrics is guaranteed to offer the right colour for your next floral design. The free ‘Flower Meadow’ design is available on Zweigart’s homepage: www.zweigart.de/embroidery Secondly, Dandelion’s soft beige tones meet different shades of grey, combined with great all-over prints like the ‘Splash’ print. Be sure to check out ‘Wish’ in Belfast (3609/2409, 32 ct.). info@zweigart.de www.zweigart.de STOCKWELL CERAMICS Stockwell Ceramics have a set of new floral buttons depicting a pink rose, hibiscus and anemone, an orange marigold and tulip and a blue agapanthus. Stockwell Ceramics is a Cornish based crafts company producing high quality, irresistible ranges of handmade ceramic buttons, brooches, pendant necklaces, earrings, cufflinks and hanging decorations. All of the products are handmade in its studio, which overlooks the beautiful Tamar valley in south-east Cornwall. info@stockwellceramics.co.uk www.stockwellceramics.com
MADEINGREATBRITAIN E: office@viridianltd.co.uk T: 0117 300 5244 www.viridianyarn.com TRADE ENQUIRIES:
20 KNITTING FEVER Introducing Noro- Natsumeki! Named after the Japanese phrase for ‘summer is in the air’, this captivating blend combines the breathability of cotton, the luxurious sheen of silk, and the durability of polyamide for an enchanting knitting experience. Each generous 150-gram skein holds 525 yards of creative potential, perfect for crafting breezy tops, lightweight scarves, and elegant accessories. Whether you’re knitting lace patterns or textured stitches, Natsumeki’s vibrant colours and subtle variations ensure each project is a celebration of summer style. Step into the essence of summer with Natsumeki, a lightweight yarn from Noro! customerservice@knittingfever.com www.knittingfever.com BEHRENS FABRICS These gorgeous new designs are both from the Q T Fabrics collection: 30665V ‘Oh The Places You’ll Go’; and 30758X ‘Enchanted’. +44 (0)161 872 1444 www.behrens.co.uk KNITTING FEVER Experience the pure luxury of Mirasol’s Fine Weight Pima Paka yarn! Crafted from 100 per cent organic Pima cotton, this treasure offers unparalleled softness and breathability in every stitch. Each 100-gram skein contains 328 yards of sheer delight, perfect for creating delicate shawls, lightweight tops, and luxurious accessories. Whether you’re knitting or crocheting, Pima Paka’s smooth texture and beautiful drape ensure an elegant finished piece. Indulge in the beauty of natural fibres and sustainable crafting with Mirasol’s Pima Paka yarn, and wrap yourself in comfort that’s as gentle on the earth as it is on your skin. Proceeds from Mirasol go to funding the schools of the Mirasol project. customerservice@knittingfever.com www.knittingfever.com VIRIDIAN Every year Opal produces a Rainforest collection for the Rainforest Rescue fund. The shades in the range are based on animals and their beautiful colours. This year is Opal Rainforest 20, a sumptuous 4 ply range in 16 stunning shades to celebrate 20 years of Opal’s Support of the Rainforest Rescue. For every kg sold money is donated to ‘Rainforest Rescue’. To date, because of the tremendous efforts of Opal retailers and end users around the world, EUR300,000 has been raised for this fantastic cause. +44 (0)117 300 5244 https://viridianyarn.com
www.studiopens.com info@studiopens.com WWW.SEARCHPRESS.COM BRAND-NEW CRAFTY CARD DECKS! GRANNY SQUARE CARD DECK THE CLAIRE MONTGOMERIE 11. MITERED NOTE Row 1 is joined into a round, but after that the piece is not worked in rounds but in unturned rows, with each new color added at the beginning of the last unturned row. JOINING Use the slip stitch method (page 14). See pages 4–5 for a symbol key. ISBN: 9781800922297 | £14.99 Innovative and completely visual, this card deck of 50 gorgeous grannies will help you mix and match successful colour and design combinations every time you pick up your hook. STITCHES THE ESSENTIAL EMBROIDERY Work in any direction: x Bring needle up at 1 and insert it at 2. Repeat as required. x Where several straight stitches are closely grouped it is best to work them all in a similar direction, e.g. from top to bottom or from bottom to top. INSTRUCTIONS 1 CARD DECK xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxxx detached stitches FRENCH KNOTS Alternative name: n/a Uses: A bold, raised dot, used singly (e.g. as an eye) or in groups (e.g. as a flower centre); may be worked closely packed or evenly scattered as a textured filling, or clustered for a shaded filling. Notes: n/a The perfect tool to help you select and create 50 useful embroidery stitches, this innovative card deck of inspiring designs can be easily slipped into your bag for on-the-go stitching. ISBN: 9781800922303 | £14.99 CF_Halfpage_Issue103_JunJul_24.indd 1 31/05/2024 14:48:49
23 SHOWS & EVENTS This season’s most unmissable events Shows, news & events h+h americas 2024 sets new records The third edition of h+h americas confirmed its status as the fastest growing US event for the handicraft industry. A record number of 3,831 professionals from 36 countries and all 50 US states ventured to Rosemont to source the latest crafts products from 402 vendors, increasing exhibitor participation by 50 per cent compared to the previous year. Attendees consisted of major retailers such as Michaels, JOANN Fabrics, Hobby Lobby, Blick Art Materials as well as store owners from all across North and South America and Europe. Combined social media engagement reached 17 million viewers based on data provided by attending content creators. The event featured some 120 educational events among them a Fashion Show and a first time ‘Cosplay contest’ providing interaction with artists, creators and enthusiasts on stage. All educational sessions such as the Opening Keynote, Masterclasses and Conference Programmes reached maximum attendance. “We couldn’t be any happier since the show floor was buzzing with energy and exhibitors reported excellent results. Our exhibitor and attendee numbers have set new records again and all major players in the craft business are now participating in our event. A special thank you to our partners who worked tirelessly on creating content especially our conference partner, the Craft Industry Alliance,” said Mette Petersen, President and Managing Director of Koelnmesse Inc. “A big shout out to our loyal exhibitors, the show team and all those who have been working behind the scenes to deliver another successful event! We are proud to be the organizers of two h+h events on each side of the Atlantic for the handicraft industry in Rosemont/Chicago and Cologne. This year also marks a major milestone for our company as Koelnmesse GmbH is celebrating its 100th birthday,” said Gerald Böse, President and CEO of Koelnmesse GmbH. “As the weeks went by leading up to this year’s show, the excitement on social media was palpable,” said Craft Industry Alliance President Abby Glassenberg. “h+h americas is exactly what our industry needed. A time to come together, in person, to reconnect, get inspired, and form new partnerships. As the trade association for the industry, we are so proud and grateful to be part of this show!” “This year’s event has not only showcased the latest trends in yarn, fabric, and sewing materials but also brought together a vibrant community of creators, exhibitors and attendees from across the globe. We’re delighted about the continued support and enthusiasm of all our partners, sponsors and participants and we can’t wait to see what the future holds for h+h americas.” added Darrin Stern, h+h americas Show Director. Diary dates Home & Gift 21st -24th July, 2024 Harrogate Convention Centre https://homeandgift.co.uk NY Now 4th – 7th August, 2024 Javits Centre, NYC https://nynow.com Scotland Trade Fair Autumn 18th-19th August 2024 SEC, Glasgow www.scotlandstradefairs.com Autumn Fair 1st - 4th September, 2024 Birmingham NEC www.autumnfair.com Top Drawer 8th – 10th September, 2024 Olympia, London www.topdrawer.co.uk Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East 12th – 14th November, 2024 Dubai World Trade Centre https://gifts-lifestyle-middleeast.ae.messefrankfurt.com Harrogate Christmas & Gift 12th-15th January, 2025 Harrogate Convention Centre www.harrogatefair.com
24 Creativeworld exhibitors donate art supplies for children Some 95 exhibitors at this year’s Creativeworld have donated high-quality trade fair samples from their craft and creative product ranges to the Frankfurt Children’s Office. Hence, they are providing around 4,000 children in more than 60 children’s and young people’s centres in the Rhine-Main region with products like brushes and paints, modelling clay and pens as well as special trend products and materials for the latest creative techniques for free. With this donation campaign, Messe Frankfurt and the exhibitors are committed to social participation and creative support for children in the region. The campaign thus builds a bridge between the international trade fair for hobby, craft and artists’ supplies and the local community of creative users. “With the donations from our Creativeworld exhibitors, we enable children to depict their world and communicate where words are lacking,” explains Eva Olbrich, Director of Creativeworld. Madeleine Michaelis, Project Manager of the Frankfurt Children’s Office, adds: “Everything that’s donated goes to where it’s needed, without exception. Organisations often don’t have the budget to buy creative materials, as these are expensive. Messe Frankfurt provides valuable support here: a big thank you for that!” Ambiente, Christmasworld and Creativeworld will continue to take place at the same time at the Frankfurt exhibition centre in future. The daily sequence of Creativeworld will be optimised in close consultation with the industry: Creativeworld will start simultaneously with Ambiente and Christmasworld on Friday, 7th February 2025. It will continue to run for four days. Autumn Fair launches new business pavilion The UK’s largest retail marketplace for Home, Gift & Fashion, Autumn Fair has announced the launch of a New Business Pavilion designed to support small businesses and the next generation of makers and creators, helping put their products on the map and reach thousands of buyers nationwide. 100 New Business Pavilion ready-to-exhibit entry level price packages are available and include space at both Autumn Fair taking place from 1st to 4th September 2024 at NEC Birmingham, and Spring Fair from 2nd to 5th February 2025. The packages have been curated to give retail’s future leaders a chance to reach a new marketplace, learn from seasoned businesses, and be part of the future of retail with Spring & Autumn Fair. The packages are offered across all sectors including The Summerhouse, a curated home for the most beautiful, styleled and on-trend interior accessories and gifts; as well as Home Living & Décor; Gift; Beauty & Wellbeing; Greetings Cards, Stationery & Wrapping; Kids, Toys & Play; Everyday; and within Moda, Clothing & Footwear; Fashion Accessories; and Jewellery & Watch. Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director of Autumn Fair says, “We’re very excited to launch our New Business packages, tailormade for small businesses to help them put their products in front of key, purchase-ready buyers from leading stores like Marks & Spencer, John Lewis, Tesco, Dunelm as well as thousands of independent retailers. This opportunity also helps businesses who have never exhibited before to meet and learn from the best by joining the 800+ seasoned makers, creators and product sellers while at the show.” New Business Pavilion exhibitors will be able to showcase their products at two of the UK’s biggest retail trade events - Autumn Fair 2024 and Spring Fair 2025, within a large pavilion of other new businesses ready to make the next step selling their products to business across the UK and Ireland. From open plan displays to creative showcasing solutions, new businesses will be able to amplify their presence and products to key buyers at both shows. Exhibitors will also get access to exhibitor playbooks and association support, dedicated marketing initiatives to support your business, and ongoing support from a dedicated account manager. Spaces are limited but applications are now open – visit the website: www.autumnfair.com/new-business-pavilion to apply.
REGISTER NOW FOR FREE ADMISSION SATURDAY 7th - SUNDAY 8th September 2024 at The Pavilions of Harrogate Saturday 9.30-5pm Sunday 9.30-4pm See What's New Cygnet Yarns, Groves, James C Brett, King Cole, Rico, Stylecraft, Viridian and West Yorkshire Spinners, together with specially invited suppliers including Emma Ball, CRS Fur Fabrics, SC & PS Saunders Ltd, Artyarn, Baa Ram Ewe, Nutex UK Ltd, Fyberspates and Littondale Craft Fabrics. Relax and network Complimentary buffet lunch & refreshments Free parking Brought to you by UK Hand Knitting www.ukhandknitting.com Sign up for tickets here or contact info@ukhandknitting.com Register before 31st July to enter the prize draw Open to trade visitors only
26 Cosplay Fashion Show Competition winners The first-time winners in five categories were selected on the second show day of h+h americas 2024 which took place from 1st to 3rd May, 2024 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention & Conference Centre in Rosemont, IL. The top prizes went to following individuals: Professional Division: Best in Show - CaffeineCraft & SetterSpecs for Ninetails; Fox’s Wedding Master Craftsman (Best in Show Runner-Up) - Pirate Fox Cosplay for Stygian Zinogre Armor from Monster Hunter World Judge’s Choice Award - Scissor Wizard Cosplay for Rose Quartz from Steven Universe (Hannah Alexander’s Art Nouveau Version) Student Division: Best in Show - TanaKay Cosplay for Virgilia from Umineko Judges Choice Award - Scarlet Stitch Studios for Marie Antoinette These awards recognize the important contributions and crucial role cosplay designers provide as creators within the crafting community. As multi-media artists they bring imaginative garments to life from a variety of products, holding a vital position in the industry. This year’s awards were generously sponsored by the following companies: Platinum Sponsor - Famoré Cutlery Gold Sponsors - Oliso, Janome America, WonderFil Specialty Threads, Shannon Fabrics, FanPowered Press, Universal Yarn Silver Sponsors - Hobbs Bonded Fibers, Pauline’s Quilters World In total $10,000+ in cash prices and products were awarded. Diana ‘Binkxy’ Tolin acted as Master of Ceremonies and the panel of judges consisted of: Con of Pros and Cons Cosplay Maggie Hofmann aka PaisleyandGlue Tim of Harrison Designs and Concepts h+h americas looks at cosplay as a significant part of the crafting segment and is committed to recognise passionate creators for their achievements during this event. Future Show Dates: h+h cologne – March 7 - 9, 2025 – Cologne, Germany www.hh-cologne.com h+h americas – May 7 - 9, 2025 – Rosemont, USA www.hh-americas.com h+h Cologne’s success! h+h cologne 2024 closed its doors with strong figures and positive feedback from the industry. In line with the market figures published by Initiative Handarbeit e.V., which show that handicrafts are anchored within society more than ever, h+h cologne offered a huge international meeting point for trade visitors of the creative community. In total, the visitors came together from 78 countries. The survey that was carried out by GfK Nuremberg on behalf of the industry association, Initiative Handarbeit, proves the growing enthusiasm for textile handicrafts. In the meantime, the 18- to 29-year-olds form the largest group of handicraft fans. Key theme promotes industry’s sustainability With its new key theme ‘Creative Empowerment’, h+h cologne 2024 set itself the goal of actively supporting the handicraft industry in its growth and helping the specialised trade to master the current challenges. In this connection, the trade fair developed a new zone concept for overriding knowledge transfer. Here, the special focus of the programme lay on business-relevant aspects, such as marketing and reach expansion via diverse sales channels and platforms. As further education measures, the visitors were able to enjoy 60 programme items in total that focused on the main topics industry trends, founding companies and marketing strategies. “With our new zone concept and the key theme Creative Empowerment we are setting important impulses that will support the industry long-term and substantiate our position as the leading B2B platform. The good mood in the exhibition halls and the full houses during the lectures send out a clear signal: The visitors of the event want to learn, establish new national and international contacts as well as find business partners. With this development in mind, we are already eagerly looking forward to the event in 2025,” stated Oliver Frese, Chief Operating Officer, Koelnmesse. Hedi Ehlen, Executive Director of Initiative Handarbeit, added: “The stationery trade is essential for our industry and it is important to us as the industry association to promote this with all activities in cooperation with h+h cologne. The exhibitors praised the excellent mood in the exhibition halls. And the specialised programme went down very well with the trade visitors too.” After three successful days at the trade fair, the 300 exhibitors from 40 countries looked back on a successful event. Creative products and services were presented to around 12,000 trade visitors, attending press representatives and content creators from 22nd to 24th March. The biggest international groups of visitors came from the Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland and the USA. Canada and Japan recorded the highest growth. With a 76 per cent share of foreign exhibitors and a 45 per cent share of foreign trade visitors, h+h cologne 2024 was able to emphasise its significant position within the international handicraft industry. The complete survey of GfK can be found on the website of Initiative Handarbeit. The next h+h cologne, takes place 7th to 9th March, 2025.
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29 LSS WINNERS The winners of the Stationery Awards 2024 were announced Tuesday 14th May at the close of the first day of London Stationery Show at the Business Design Centre. There were over 70 products nominated from 40 different brands, from the well-established to newbies on the scene. Judged by an independent panel of leading retailers, across 12 distinct product categories. The awards ceremony was sponsored by The Stationers’ Company and was attended by retailers, buyers, suppliers and distributors who shared in the joy as the worthy winners made their way to the stage to collect their trophies. Rob Willis, COO of Max Publishing, who hosted the ceremony alongside event manager Chantelle White, said: “The Stationery Awards showed that this sector is awash with innovation and style, and is trend-savvy across all different categories. Retailers spent a good deal of time in judging and were in awe of just how unstoppable stationery suppliers are at fulfilling their obligation to keep great products continuously coming to market.” The final award was new for 2024 - the Icon Award, recognising a stationery product that has stood the test of time. The winner was the Kaweco Classic Sport Fountain Pen from Studio Pens. The Stationery Awards recognise the greatest product innovations in the stationery sector. Here are 2024’s winners Visit: https://www.stationerynews.net/ Stationery Awards 2024: The Winners THE WINNERS OF THE STATIONERY AWARDS 2024 ARE: Novelty Stationery Product of the Year Legami Erasable Pens from Stone Marketing Arts & Crafts Product of the Year Eugy 3D Model Kit from Brainstorm Writing Instrument of the Year Aspect Retractable Pen from Andhand Children’s Stationery Product of the Year Faber-Castell 20 x Connector Fibre-tip Pens in Dinosaur Tin from Stone Marketing Working From Home Product of the Year Organiser Set from Coffeenotes Sustainable Stationery Product of the Year Clairefontaine Bamboo Watercolour Pads from Exacompta Clairefontaine (ExaClair) Diary or Organiser of the Year Weekly Planner and Notebook with Dotted Pages from LEUCHTTURM1917 Licensed Stationery Product of the Year LEGO Harry Potter Box Set with Diary, Broomstick Pen & Accessories from Manuscript Brands Notebook or Journal of the Year Bullet Journal® Pocket Edition from LEUCHTTURM1917 Filling or Storage Product of the Year Endless Stationery Five Pen Companion from Mann Inc Social Stationery Product of the Year Big Conversations Before I Die Journal from Huunuu The Icon Award Kaweco Classic Sport Fountain Pen from Studio Pens
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