WWW.CRAFTFOCUS.COM OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER FOR CRAFT HOBBY + STITCH INTERNATIONAL AND PROUD SPONSOR OF TRENDING NOW MAKE YOUR MARK Stamping & embossing Christmas CHEER Festive crafts to keep you busy SHOW NEWS Autumn Fair preview Plus! Knitting & crochet Soft crafts Cardmaking inspiration
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 75 Bookstand The latest book releases 92 Tried & tested Craft Focus Editor, Rachel Westall, tries out this stunning botanical print stamping set by The Indian Block Print Co. August/ September 2024 38 FEATURES 34 Handmade with love Cardmaking ideas 41 Feeling festive Christmas crafts for all 51 Black cats and witches Halloween makes 59 Yarn essentials Knitting and crochet 65 Stamp of approval Stamping and embossing 69 Fun with felt Soft crafts & felting 59 41 FOCUS ON 32 Brainstorm ltd Debra Tiffany, Marketing Manager of Brainstorm Ltd talks about the everexpanding business bursting with creativity, inspiring kids and parents alike 38 Marvling bros ltd Emma Dobie and Hayley Madden Co-founders of Marvling Bros Ltd talk to Craft Focus about their business that started at the school gates! 48 Hawthorn handmade Stephanie Carswell, Founder and Creative Director of Hawthorn Handmade talks to Craft Focus about her expanding business and her upcoming stint on the BBC’s Make it at Market 56 London luxury candle supplies Alexandra Hunt, Founder and CEO of London Luxury Candle Supplies talks to Craft Focus about her candle making business
4 BUSINESS 78 Cash flow FSB National Chair, Martin McTague, looks at how essential it is for small businesses to remain flexible in terms of processing payments 79 Social situations In the second in the series on brand protection, following informed insight, ACID CEO Dids Macdonald delve into the realms of social media issues at a recent webinar with the organisation’s new brand protection partners SnapDragon 80 Breaking Stereotypes Clive Bruder, founder of Boys Sew Too and WeSewToo, discusses the need to empower gender diversity in the sewing community 84 Thinking with their hands Crafter, teacher and author, Elizabeth Okeyele-Olatunji, gives her thoughts and opinions about changing the world of children with yarns 86 Retailer interview Judith Taylor, Owner of Rosy Posy Petals, talks to Craft Focus about her online store for sustainable, vegan and eco-friendly crafts and gifts SHOWS 23 Shows, news & events Stay up-to-date with what’s happening in your industry 29 Autumn Fair preview What to expect at The NEC this September 56 51 34 80
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.
Wellbeing Australia’s leading natural health magazine that focuses on organic living, alternative therapies, environmental issues and natural living. Textile Fibre Forum The Australian magazine for fibre arts that showcases talent and individuality through its in-depth look at artists and exhibitions. PATCHWORK & QUILTING TEXTILES & TEXTILE ART WELLBEING & MINDFULNESS Quilters Companion Showcasing quilts from world-renowned quilters, pictured in beautiful settings, with step-by-step guides to creating your own quilted masterpiece. Yarn An inspiring collection of ideas from emerging Australian designers to knit, crochet, felt, spin and weave. KNITTING Embellish This mixed media publication fuses fashion, fantasy and art to create gifts and homeware. EMBELLISHMENT Felt Each issue features comprehensive, unique wet and dry felting projects to suit a wide range of skill levels. FELTING VINTAGE Vintage Made Covering vintage fashion, design and patterns. INDULGE YOUR PASSION WITH OUR EXCLUSIVE RANGE OF CRAFT MAGAZINES... You will love our extensive range of craft magazines, order your magazine subscriptions now! Manor House Magazines is the sole UK and European importer and distributor of these fantastic Australian magazines MANOR HOUSE MAGAZINES 92 Plains Avenue, Maidstone, Kent ME15 7AU | 01672 514 288 | info@manorhousemagazines.co.uk | www.manorhousemagazines.co.uk CRAFT RETAILER? Increase Footfall & Sales Ask About Our Trade Discounts PATCHWORK, QUILTING & STITCH CRAFT HAND EMBROIDERY Classic Inspirations The world’s most beautiful embroidery magazine. Each issue contains unique projects for beginners to advanced stitchers, detailed instructions and full-size, tear out pattern sheets. Homespun Award-winning magazine combining classic crafting with a more modern approach to textile crafts. Projects include sewing, quilting, embroidery, patchwork, knitting, crochet and appliqué Feb/Mar 2024 FEB/MAR 2024 your heart in your hands a u s t r a l i a n SUNSHINE & LOLLIPOPS Designed by Anni Downs with Tilda Jubilee fabrics Welcome to the festivities! PATCHWORK A SUMMER QUILT CROCHET A SUN HAT AMIGURUMI A STRAWBERRY DOLL APPLIQUÉ A BRIGHT CUSHION CREATE A FRAMED EMBROIDERY 2024 BOM BEGINS NOW! PATCHWORK • APPLIQUÉ • EMBROIDERY • CROCHET • KNITTING • TOYMAKING No. 217 (Vol. 25.1) AU $12.95* NZ $12.95* (Both incl. GST) HSP2501_OFC_FINAL.indd 1 7/12/2023 9:32:57 AM
7 EDITOR’S LETTER On the cover IRIS from Juniper Moon Farm is reminiscent of an oversized bushel of cotton candy… The soft flowy texture, the swirling and creamy muted colours, and all the squish you can handle. IRIS from Juniper Moon Farm is a luxurious blend of Suri Alpaca, Mulberry Silk and Merino Wool. This dreamy delight comes in 437 yard skeins and is offered in eight magical colourways. It’s ethically sourced in Argentina, designed in Italy and distributed by Knitting Fever Inc. Visit: www.knittingfever.com Come rain or shine I hope you’re all enjoying the summer. We certainly are at Craft Focus HQ. However, there have been murmurs of the C word, that we can’t ignore as we enter the second half of the year. It’s time to dip your toes in and check out the first part of our Christmas special to get your cogs whirring as to what your festive displays will look like this year. There’s so much choice out there! If you can’t quite entertain sequins and tinsel just yet, maybe enjoy our Halloween pages instead – there are black cats and pumpkins galore! This issue, we also celebrate the not-to-miss trade show, Autumn Fair, a key event for buyers to top up their stocks ready for the golden quarter. Do register for this huge event at The NEC. If that’s not enough, we have a spotlight on knitting and crochet, a section all about stamping and embossing as well as a focus on cardmaking. I adore making cards and am always keen to keep my card stock fresh and up to date – with a few fun stencils and embellishments added each season. Enjoy the rest of the summer sun and keep crafting! 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 Lavinia Stamps Little Green Paper Shop
Introducing our new extended range of Valentine’s paperware, gifts and accessories.
9 INDUSTRY NEWS Consumer loyalty on the rise: UK public engaged in loyalty schemes The Gift Card and Voucher Association (GCVA) has released comprehensive research findings revealing the impressive engagement levels of UK consumers with loyalty schemes. According to the report, 91 per cent of the UK public are now actively involved in loyalty programmes, reflecting a broad appeal across different demographics and income levels. The survey, conducted over 1,000 UK consumers and insights from 36 GCVA member organisations, highlights that loyalty scheme participation remains robust across all age groups. 94 per cent of those aged 66 and over are engaged in at least one scheme, alongside 81 per cent of young adults between 18 and 25. Schemes also appeal to those on both high and low incomes, with 96 per cent of those with a household income of over £75,000 actively involved in such schemes. “This high engagement rate underscores the effectiveness and widespread appeal of loyalty programmes,” said Dr Hannah Shimko, Director General at GCVA. “Our findings indicate that consumers across all demographics are recognising and valuing the benefits provided by these schemes.” The report also identifies sector-specific opportunities where loyalty programmes are particularly effective. Supermarkets lead the way, with 88 per cent of consumers using loyalty schemes for their essential shopping needs. Coffee shops and cafes also see substantial engagement, with 35 per cent of loyalty scheme users enjoying rewards alongside their regular coffee purchases. Other sectors showing significant engagement include travel and airlines (25 per cent), health and beauty (22 per cent), and restaurants and food delivery services (20 per cent). “The high engagement in supermarkets and coffee shops illustrates where consumers are most actively participating in loyalty schemes,” added Hannah “Businesses in these sectors, as well as those in travel, health, and dining, can leverage these insights to refine and expand their loyalty programmes, driving greater customer retention and satisfaction.” However, the research also indicates some frustrations with how some loyalty schemes are managed, which businesses should bear in mind. Consumers often find these programmes complex and difficult to use, which can diminish their effectiveness. Additionally, concerns about data privacy and the perceived value of rewards can hinder consumer trust and engagement. “Gift cards present a powerful solution to these common issues,” continued Hannah, “They offer a straightforward, easyto-understand reward mechanism that simplifies the process for consumers. The flexibility and reliability of gift cards ensure that rewards are both valuable and convenient, addressing the complexity and scepticism that some loyalty schemes face. By integrating gift cards into their loyalty strategies, businesses can enhance user experience, build trust, and ultimately drive higher engagement and satisfaction.” Industry news Latest news from the craft industry ACID announces new CEO ACID has announced the appointment of Laura Newbold Breen as its new Chief Executive Officer. With a background in IP and a visionary approach to the future, Laura will open a new chapter of growth, development, and innovation for ACID. Since its inception, ACID has been dedicated to safeguarding the original work of creators, providing robust support and advocacy to ensure their intellectual property rights are protected. The organisation’s unique approach has been a trailblazer in the IP landscape, establishing it as a trusted ally for designers, IP creators, and entrepreneurs. Dids Macdonald OBE., ACID’s Co-founder said, “I’m confident that Laura will bring a wealth of experience and a dynamic vision to ACID. With her impressive experience in intellectual property, including leadership roles in the famous ‘Trunki’ brand, she’s well-equipped to build on ACID’s legacy. Laura’s commitment to advancing IP protection aligns perfectly with ACID’s mission and values. I’m delighted to remain as Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director of Public Affairs/Campaigning and on behalf of the Board, we’re excited that Laura will lead ACID into a bright future.” Laura Newbold Breen said, “To be handed the CEO reins by Dids is a huge accolade. My SME and manufacturing experience means I know all too well the challenges faced by so many UK businesses, of which IP forms a huge part. It’s through this experience and navigating so many challenges that I intend to inspire and nurture ACID members throughout their IP journey, ensuring they’re supported at every turn. I’m a strong believer that an organisations success relies on both a great team, and great leadership. I’m privileged to have both a great team at ACID that I can both lead and learn from, great mentorship in Dids, Nick and Ann. I know we can all learn from each other and drive ACID and its members towards a bright and prosperous future.” Visit: www.acid.uk.com
10 Stabilo announces new distribution partnership with Asda Leading European manufacturer of pens, pencils, and other writing instruments, Stabilo, has announced a new partnership with Asda to stock its range of high-quality stationery. This exciting development marks a significant milestone for Stabilo as it expands its retail presence. Shoppers can now easily access Stabilo’s popular products from vibrant highlighters to precision pens, ensuring they have the perfect tools for school, office, and creative projects. Stabilo will now be stocked in up to 462 Asda stores nationwide, along with being available for purchase online. This new partnership marks Stabilo’s move back into grocery stores and a look into the future plans of the brand as it looks to expand it grocery partnership network. Current stockists of Stabilo include independent retailers and news, books and convenience stores. Shahbaz Khan, Market Director UK/Ireland at Stabilo, says: “We’re absolutely delighted to announce our partnership with Asda, one of the UK’s leading retailers. This collaboration not only enhances the availability of our high-quality products but also underscores our commitment to making Stabilo’s vibrant and creative tools accessible to a broader audience. By working together with Asda, we’re taking a significant step forward in our mission to bring colour and creativity back into everyday life, inspiring people of all ages to express themselves through our innovative and diverse range of stationery products. We look forward to a successful partnership that benefits our customers and enriches their creative experiences.” For further information, visit: www.stabilo.com JPS Stationers wins Pentel merchandising prize Ray Williams of JPS Stationers in Chesham, Buckinghamshire is the winner of the trade competition associated with Pentel’s #PassionForPens campaign, which launched during National Stationery Week. In the campaign independent retailers could apply for special sample packs containing Pentel’s new Mattehop gel pens, a quick-drying EnerGel pen, a photo and a piece of blank paper. They were required to announce the availability of the free packs on social media and encourage their customers to come into store and request a set - which also gave them the opportunity to enter a competition to win a bundle of Pentel products worth £100. The winner of the consumer competition also won for their retailer a Pentel merchandising package featuring an EnerGel floorstanding display unit and a Mattehop counter display. The consumer competition required entrants to use their award-winning Mattehop gel pen to deface the photo in the sample pack in an amusing and entertaining way and write a caption for it on paper using their EnerGel pen. Thanks to the creativity of his customer Lauren Crick, whose winning entry entitled ‘The King and his Jester’ delighted the independent judge, Ray won the Pentel trade prize package. Receiving his prize from his Pentel representative, territory manager John Cotterell, Ray commented, “I’m thrilled to win the Pentel EnerGel and Mattehop merchandising units, containing products which are sure to be popular with my customers. We had a fantastic response to Pentel’s #PassionForPens campaign, and I’m really pleased that Lauren’s entry was considered the most creative by the judges.” Pentel marketing manager Wendy Vickery said, “Once again, our customers embraced our National Stationery Week activity with enthusiasm and we’re so grateful for their support – not only during this important time, but throughout the year. By working together, we can deliver successful campaigns that enhance end-user awareness and provide new business opportunities for retailers. Congratulations to Ray, whose customers produced some fantastic and entertaining entries!” For more information, visit: www.pentel.co.uk
The Wool Shop in Ludlow is currently for sale as a going concern due to the current owners relocation. Very popular and pro itable yarn shop holding a great range of yarns and patchwork and quilting fabrics over the two shop loors, with ample spaces for workshops and crafting groups to be held on the third loor. There is lots of potential here for an enthusiastic new owner to bene it from! WELL ESTABLISHED YARN AND FABRIC SHOP FOR SALE To request the initial sales information please email Claire at thewoolshop.ludlow@outlook.com or call on 01584 872 988. VIEW OUR FLIPBOOK CATALOGUE www.artstat.co.uk PROFESSIONAL BUYER OF ALL TYPES OF RESIDUAL, CLEARANCE, DELETED AND RETURN STOCKS OF... BOOKS, STATIONERY, PENS AND FANCY GOODS. T.D.EDWARDS AND SON LTD MIKE EDWARDS EMAIL: tdedwardsandson@hotmail.com OR CALL ME ON 07773 282673 WE WILL EVEN PURCHASE YOUR PULPING STOCKS, AND ARRANGE COLLECTION. PLEASE CONTACT ME WITH YOUR STOCK LISTS.
12 Hawthorn Handmade celebrates new partnership with Ryman Hawthorn Handmade, known for its high quality beginner craft kits, is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Ryman. From July 2024, Ryman will stock a wide range of Hawthorn Handmade’s beautifully designed craft kits in over 100 stores across the UK. This exciting development marks a significant achievement for the Dorset-based company, as it continues to spread the joy of crafting. “We’re incredibly proud to see our craft kits on the shelves of Ryman stores,” said Stephanie Carswell, Founder and Creative Director of Hawthorn Handmade. “This partnership is a sign of the hard work and dedication of our small team. We look forward to inspiring new and seasoned crafters alike, bringing the therapeutic and creative benefits of crafting to an even wider audience.” Since launching in 2013, Hawthorn Handmade has experienced remarkable growth, expanding from a small startup into a thriving business with a global reach. The company has successfully ventured into the US market and has sold over half a million craft kits worldwide. This latest collaboration with Ryman represents another milestone in their journey, highlighting their commitment to making high-quality, modern and accessible crafting experiences. Stephanie added, “Working with Ryman allows us to reach new customers who may not have discovered our products otherwise. We’re excited to see how this partnership will inspire creativity and bring the calming, joyful experience of crafting to so many more people.” For more information about Hawthorn Handmade and their range of needle felting, embroidery and felt craft kits, visit www.hawthornhandmade.com Ludlow’s The Wool Shop up for sale The Wool Shop in Ludlow has been a wool retailer for many years, with different management over time. The Wool Shop in Ludlow has been a wool retailer for many years, with different management over time. Jean Brindley has been in charge for the past 18 years, and her daughter Claire Brindley has joined her in running the shop for the last 10 years. Located in the charming market town of Ludlow, the shop benefits from having minimal competition in the area. As a well-established business, The Wool Shop has built up a solid reputation for its quality and range of products and boasts a loyal customer base in the local area as well as many returning customers from further afield. Claire’s relocation and Jean’s retirement have led to the reluctant decision to sell the business. With some recent shifts in their lives, they’re optimistic that a new owner could enhance the business and guide it towards a successful future. If you’re interested in taking over this well established, yarn, patchwork, quilting and needlecraft shop, please contact Claire on 01584 872 988 or via email at: thewoolshop.ludlow@outlook.com
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 www.cygnetyarns.com 12-14 Adelaide Street | Bradford | BD5 0EA T: 01274 743374 | E: sales@cygnetyarns.com Add a touch of warmth this Autumn with our cosy, high-quality yarns and free pattern support. Our knitting yarns are designed to inspire and excite our community of crafters at an affordable price.
@curiousuniverseuk @CUL_UK @curiousuniverseuk Calling all curious crafters If we’ve sparked your curiosity, visit our website: www.curiousuniverse.co.uk 3-in-1 Landscape Single
15 BRAND SPANKING NEW Brand spanking new Check out some new and exciting products in the current market BOTHY THREADS This mystical counted cross stitch kit, Mystique, is worked on 14 count Zweigart Aida which has been printed with a full colour background. This design uses cross stitch and back stitch. The kit includes pre-sorted stranded cottons, a needle and a clear stitch diagram and instructions. The finished design size is 26cm x 26cm. +44 (0)1900 828 844 info@bothythreads.com www.bothythreads.com JUNIPER MOON FARM IRIS from Juniper Moon Farm is reminiscent of an oversized bushel of cotton candy. The soft flowy texture, the swirling and creamy muted colours, and all the squish you can handle. IRIS from Juniper Moon Farm is a luxurious blend of Suri Alpaca, Mulberry Silk and Merino Wool. This dreamy delight comes in 437 yard skeins and is offered in eight colourways. It’s ethically sourced in Argentina, designed in Italy and distributed by Knitting Fever Inc. customerservice@knittingfever.com www.knittingfever.com SEARCH PRESS Baa-rilliant Knits, features Shaun and nine of his Mossy Bottom sidekicks, lovingly created by popular knitting designer Sachiyo Ishii. The book features two versions of Shaun (on two legs and four legs!), complete with Santa hat and paper chain from The Flight Before Christmas short film, and a baker’s hat and pizza from the series six episode Baa-gherita. Ideal for confident knitters, the book contains essential techniques and stitches at the start, with clear instructions for making the characters stand upright and a full step-by-step construction guide. The patterns are easy-to-follow, packed with photographs for easy reference, and any tricky elements are broken down into step-by -step stages. +44 (0)1892 510 850 www.searchpress.com
16 BATSFORD Himmeli by Eija Koski is an introduction to making himmeli straw mobiles with 22 unique projects. Discover the traditional art of himmeli in this captivating book in which Finnish craft and sleek artistry intertwine to create stunning geometric mobiles from rye straw. The exquisite mobiles with their angular lines, geometric shapes and crisp, airy feeling have something natural and timeless about them. With the addition of colours and new materials such as paper drinking straws, they become modern sculptures that can adorn the home or make thoughtful gifts for friends and family. In Himmeli readers get a comprehensive introduction to building himmeli mobiles alongside step-by-step instructions and a gallery of inspirational images that will help both beginners and seasoned crafters create 22 beautiful mobiles. sales@batsfordbooks.com www.batsfordbooks.com LETISTITCH New for Christmas is L8106 Christmas Eve. The kit contains 45 colours of Anchor floss, canvas Aida 16ct / squared, needle and instructions. It measures size 25cm x 33cm. +44 (0)7780 122 430 +44 (0)7469 364 150 letistitch@gmail.com www.letistitch.com MOUSELOFT There’s plenty to choose from in the Make Me collection – with fun Christmas and Halloween designs. The designs fit within a 64mm diameter circle for framing. Each kit contains: aida fabric (14hpi Zweigart), threads (DMC), needle and full, easy to follow instructions. Watch this space for newness – coming soon! mice@mouseloft.co.uk www.mouseloft.co.uk
LETISTITCH Ltd is a professional counted cross stitch kits company. Our main goal is to provide an enjoyable and satisfying cross stitching experience for all our customers. We offer a vast range of cross stitch kits, from classic designs to modern ones. Our team of designers is committed to creating original and unique designs that you won’t find anywhere else. Our kits are made from high-quality materials and come with everything you need to get started. So, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced stitcher, we have a kit for you! www.letistitch.com export@letistitch.com E: office@viridianltd.co.uk T: 0117 300 5244 www.viridianyarn.com TRADE ENQUIRIES:
18 CICO BOOKS Get Hooked on Crochet by Natalie Beard is a collection of 35 playful and vibrant patterns. Suitable for complete beginners through to experienced crocheters, these irresistible projects are made in a range of bright rainbow colours and many are perfect for using up yarn from your stash. You’ll find inventive patterns to add personality to your home, such as a toadstool storage basket, a flower cushion and tassel placemats and coasters. Super-cute gifts include simple bookmarks, fridge magnets and a strawberry bottle carrier. There are also plenty of ideas for beautiful decorations such as a stunning crocheted flowers, bobble bunting and a mobile complete with mini rainbows, bees and flowers. Modern Quilts by Michael Caputo includes tutorials for every skill level to make gorgeous quilts and patchwork with 25 modern designs in an array of colourful fabrics. sales@rps.co.uk https://rylandpeters.com STOCKWELL CERAMICS These Heritage bird buttons are available in Stockwell’s Etsy shop. These beautiful bird designs are taken from original 19th century images and put onto Stocckwell’s vintage look buttons by a long process of transferring which requires the buttons to be fired in the kiln no less than three times. As ever, these buttons are entirely handmade at every stage in the company workshop in east Cornwall. These buttons will shortly be available from the website in the three most popular sizes 17mm, 22mm and 27mm. info@stockwellceramics.co.uk www.stockwellceramics.com
Something Shiny Unwrap this Christmas Head on over to our instagram to see how we and our customers utilise the versatility of the KSF 3. www.metallicelephant.co.uk
20 HERITAGE CRAFTS Heritage Crafts has brand new gonk design greeting cards: Good Luck Card (GOGL1798) and Congratulations Card (GOCG1799). The RRP is £9.80 (trade – pack of three £12.24). The size of the card (which is included in the kit) is 144mmsq. sales@hcrafts.com www.hcrafts.com CYGNET YARNS Cygnet Yarns’ Festive Pies range has a new shade! Check out Sleigh Bells Bling 1900 in Marshmallow Pies with its white, red and green tones it has all the character of Christmas in a 150g ball. sales@cygnetyarns.com www.cygnetyarns.com SILVINE Silvine has introduced Luxpad A4+ & A5+ Metallic Trend notebooks in three mindful shades: Lavender, Sage and Terracotta. Each book contains 200 pages of 80gsm quality FSC certified paper, ruled with lines and margin. Perfect for a new project, home office or new term. Available now in packs of three colours. hello@silvine.com www.silvine.com
CICO Books is distributed by Search Press and GMC For sales queries email: sales@rps.co.uk View our latest catalogue: issuu.com/rylandpeters New craft books this autumn Craft Focus crochet.indd 2 25/07/2024 11 MADEINGREATBRITAIN EMAIL US: call us:
edding.com/Xmas Creating festive moments. Because I can.
23 SHOWS & EVENTS This season’s most unmissable events Shows, news & events Creative Craft Show returns to Farnborough The Creative Craft Show will return to Farnborough International for a third year running, with brand new sister show, The Stitching Show. The show will run from Friday 30th August to Sunday 1st September 2024. This show is a haven for knitting, cross stitch, mixed media, scrapbooking, paper crafting, jewellery, dressmaking and stitching enthusiasts alike, offering all the very latest supplies, ideas, and innovations in the craft and hobby world. Jane Bolsover Head of Show Features for the Creative Craft Shows said: “We’re excited for visitors to join our brand-new stitching show which expands our already huge range of crafts with a soft craft focus, giving sewing and stitching enthusiasts even more to buy, experience and learn. Visitors can indulge in a stunning showcase of exhibitors, each bringing their own flair and expertise to a diverse range of hobbies, from cutting-edge card-making supplies to the latest crafting innovations, poised to ignite creativity.” This year Farnborough has two extra workshop rooms, with everything from clay, printing, calligraphy and needlefelt to macrame, cartonnage, sewing, machine embroidery and even business coaching, over 100 hours of workshops are available to be discovered. Held annually, the event brings together makers from across the UK, offering the perfect opportunity to network, share ideas and learn from other crafters. Explore the exhibitor stalls, take part in hands on workshops and watch live demonstrations from some of the most talented crafters and artists in the country. This year at the Farnborough show as well as established crafters exhibiting, a range of small independent business will be coming together to showcase kits, finished crafts and supplies in the new Makers Market feature. There will be everything from charts and patterns, to fabrics, yarns, threads, and buttons, with opportunities to gain advice from professional crafters, as well as the chance to try something new in the workshop dens and Make and Take sessions. Brand new craft demonstrators such as Alex Hellawell who is a mixed media clay artist will be in attendance. Alex creates original sculptures of various fantasy beings such as fairies, dragons, witches, creatures all from her imagination. Ceri Noor from Crafted By Ceri will be encouraging creative therapy through macramé designs, tutorials and workshops and Lauryn Bates from Mally Makes will be showcasing her crochet kits and patterns to make an array of animal characters, suitable for beginners through to the more advanced crocheter. Discover new materials, mediums and techniques and get inspiration. Visit www.creativecraftshow.co.uk for more details and all the latest information. Diary dates 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 Creative Craft Show 30th August – 1st September 2024 Farnborough International www.creativecraftshow.co.uk Autumn Fair 1st - 4th September, 2024 Birmingham NEC www.autumnfair.com The Knit Show 7th - 8th September, 2024 The Pavilions, Harrogate https://theknitshow.co.uk 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 50 years of CHSI Stitches CHSI Stitches, the UK trade show for the creative craft industry, will be back at the NEC in Birmingham on the 23rd and 24th February 2025. With a 50-year history leading the industry, the event will mark its 50th anniversary by uniting buyers and small craft business owners with top manufacturers and suppliers. Attendees can explore the latest products and innovations in the market and benefit from a valuable educational programme featuring top-notch advice from retail, sales, and marketing experts to propel your business to success. Registration will open in the coming months, visit the website: www.chsi.co.uk for the latest info. Koelnmesse extends contract with COO Oliver Frese Koelnmesse GmbH has announced that it’ll be extending its contract with Oliver Frese, which currently runs until the end of 2024, by a further five years to 31st December 2029. Frese has been the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Koelnmesse since 2020. “Over the past few years, Oliver Frese has not only guided the Cologne event portfolio through the difficult phase of the Covid pandemic but has also introduced a new operating model in the market-focused areas of Sales, Services and Marketing Communications”, says Gerald Böse, Chief Executive Officer at Koelnmesse. According to Böse, Frese has also worked together with the international division to successfully implement global portfolio responsibility in Trade Fair Management over recent years. “I’d like to thank Oliver Frese for his outstanding contributions and I’m convinced that Koelnmesse will continue to grow with him by our side.” “Strengthening the trade fair business in Cologne is a key priority for Koelnmesse”, says Henriette Reker, Mayor of Cologne and Chair of the Supervisory Board at Koelnmesse. “This is why I’m so pleased that Oliver Frese will be continuing to play a decisive role in shaping the future of the Koelnmesse Group in his role as Chief Operating Officer, and I look forward to our continued successful collaboration”. After holding management positions at companies such as Deutsche Telekom and the energy group EnBW and spending several years on the board of Deutsche Messe AG, Oliver Frese, who holds a social sciences degree, was appointed to the Management Board of Koelnmesse GmbH in 2020. “The development and expansion of highly attractive trade fair formats and concepts for Cologne is something that’s right at the top of my agenda for the coming years”, says Frese. “My aim is for Koelnmesse events to remain unmissable dates in the diaries of the currently over 50,000 exhibiting companies, but to also make them the place to be for new exhibitors and partners.”
Supporting the growth of the craft industry for 50 years The trade show for the creative craft industry LEARN – CONNECT – BUY 23 – 24 February 2025 Register for FREE attendance at chsi.co.uk
26 Get knitting! The Knit Show™ takes place on 7th and 8th September this year at The Pavilions in Harrogate. The event was created by UK Hand Knitting to give yarn and craft shops a dedicated trade show where they can view the latest collections in a relaxed environment, while networking with other retailers. As well as UK Hand Knitting members the show features specially selected guest suppliers to bring a really exciting range of brands together for retailers to see. These include gift companies, fabric suppliers, along with specialised yarn brands. There’s also a programme of demonstrations and workshops tailored to the needs of independent retailers to help them develop their business. The Knit Show is centrally located with easy road and rail access and a very warm welcome! Visit: https://theknitshow.co.uk/knitshow Dragons’ Den star Sara Davies keynote for BLE 2024 Sara Davies MBE, the dynamic entrepreneur and youngest female investor on BBC One’s long-running Dragons’ Den TV programme, will present the day two keynote at this year’s Brand Licensing Europe (BLE), which runs from 24th to 26th September at ExCeL London. Sara will take to the stage at 12:30 on Wednesday 25th September for ‘Crafty Licensing: Transforming a business through brand licensing’ for a Fireside Chat with the Global Licensing Group. Sara will talk about her remarkable journey in business, from founding Crafter’s Companion while still at university and growing it into a global arts and crafts business, to meeting the surging demand for creative hobbies during the pandemic. In the post-pandemic era, Sara recognised the need for a fresh approach to reach new consumers and her keynote address will delve into the strategies and transformative power of brand licensing as Crafter’s Companion expands in a rapidly changing market. Crafter’s Companion entered entertainment licensing in 2023, signing a multi-year deal with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP) covering EMEA, North America and LATAM. The licensed “Fan-Art Like a Pro” range targets kidult millennials and fans of all abilities, with premium art kits to inspire fun, fandom, and creative skills building. Each kit is curated to deliver professional quality results and includes official iconic character art, professional-grade art markers, and expert instructions extending beyond the box via a wealth of inspiring online content and tuition. BLE attendees will discover how Sara’s team has identified new opportunities, developed a license-friendly range of accessible arts and crafts kits, and navigated the challenges of pivoting a well-established business. New licenses and range extensions are also expected to be announced at BLE. Visitor registration is now open for Brand Licensing Europe 2024 - the show’s 25th anniversary. Click the link: https://utm.io/ugO2o for more info! LSS 2025 open for exhibitors! Following the success of this year’s edition, London Stationery Show 2025 is already 50 per cent sold and applications are now open for new exhibitors. Taking place at the Business Design Centre in Islington, from the 13th to 14th May 2025, London Stationery Show remains the UK’s only event dedicated to the stationery, arts, crafts, paper and writing instruments industries. For more info, visit: www.stationeryshowlondon.co.uk
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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 be cut and 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) The perfect stocking fillers for crafters One frame kit - SIX sizing options 30x30cm 21x21 A4 30x15 A4 A5 15x15 15x30cm A5 If you need something bigger why not try our Pop-up Frame POSTER kit which has 28 sizing options from 32cm up to 92cm
The UK marketplace for Home, Gift & Fashion, Autumn Fair returns on the 1st to 4th September at the NEC Birmingham offering retailers the opportunity to shop from over 800 of the leading and most imaginative brands in the marketplace. As the largest event for retail’s peak season welcoming over 12,000 purchase-ready buyers, Autumn Fair is an unmissable seasonal showcase for buyers looking to top up their offer and stock up their shelves. With a wealth of new and captivating products from the most coveted brands in retail - over 30 per cent of which show exclusively at Autumn Fair - buyers will not only discover the latest inventions in crafting, but also 10 definitive product sectors including the latest gifts, greetings, stationery, candles, home décor and accessories, and fashion. In 2019, 73 per cent of UK adults purchased craft items, totaling nearly 25 million handcrafted objects. The pandemic accelerated the craft trend, with significant engagement in TV shows like the BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee and The Great Pottery Throw Down, both attracting millions of viewers. According to the Craft Council’s Market Report, the maturing of the craft market in the UK can be attributed to a number of wider trends - the rise of e-commerce, investment purchases over throwaway objects, and an interest in sustainability and supporting small businesses. Autumn Fair’s event director, Soraya Gadelrab says, “Almost a third of craft buyers are under 35, making this age group the largest demographic of craft purchasers, plus the number of Brits buying craft online has more than tripled over the last decade, reaching 10.3 million. Retailers are diversifying, so you’ll now find crafting kits in garden centres, independent gift shops and bookshops, as well as your destinational craft multiples. Crafting kits are definitely 1st – 4th September 2024 NEC Birmingham, UK www.autumnfair.com FUN AT THE FAIR Crafting comes to life at Autumn Fair. Here’s all you need to know about the upcoming show 29 AUTUMN FAIR
becoming more accessible and celebrated in retail and are no longer just found in a small corner of the shop. “Crafting kits have the power to transform amateurs into enthusiasts into skilled designers and makers and unearth hidden talents. The satisfaction and mental health benefits which come from making, creating or building something are really rewarding for the individual and even more if this becomes a treasured keepsake or a gift. It’s a very exciting growth sector and we look forward to welcoming some inspirational crafting businesses to Autumn Fair in September and see these trends come to life.” Autumn Fair has witnessed a big increase in the number of small craft makers and bigger brands offering craft products, especially those focusing on sustainability and using materials that have either been sourced ethically or are recycled and recyclable. The range of kits now available just keeps building, from wooden and 3D papercraft models to embroidery and baking kits. CHECK OUT! Immerse yourself in creativity with Making Ideas, home to crafting kits including crepe paper flowers, 3D papercraft animals, bath bomb kits, advent calendars, and crystal art. Go On Make Me designs and sources sustainable new innovative dexterity toys and gifts. Products for all abilities and age ranges aid learning, encourage creativity, and teach skills – whilst being fun! The wooden mechanical models make great gifts for all ages, and each model is made in the EU from certified and environmentally friendly birch plywood, and no glue is required for assembly. The innovative 3D paper models - precisely designed for visual appeal and interactivity, feature intricate details and easy instructions. Choose from landmarks to animals, crafted with high-quality materials for durability. Specialists in felt since 2004, Amica design and produce quintessential, fun, handmade, Fairtrade felt gifts and Christmas decorations. Everything is designed in their Bristol studio, then made with great skill and to the highest quality by a team of Fairtrade craftspeople in Nepal. All products are made from 100 per cent sheep’s wool, plastic free and kind to the environment making them the obvious choice for anyone wanting to introduce eco friendly products. Koseli offer beautifully designed fairly traded and hand made goods from Nepal including finger puppet sewing kits and gorgeously soft and lustrous banana silk yarns, made from the sustainable fibres that are scraped from the bark of a banana tree and hand spun by women’s co-ops. All products are made by hand in small workshops or in private homes dotted around the Kathmandu valley in Nepal. The felt items are made 30
from 100 per cent wool, which is imported from Australia and New Zealand and then felted and dyed in Kathmandu. The cotton fabric and yarns used to make the hats and bags, are imported from India and then made up in small workshops in Nepal. The Way to You was founded by two young artists who are also plant enthusiasts. It emerged from a deep love for crochet and has evolved into a meaningful community initiative. It brings together over 70 members, including unemployed mothers, housewives, and elders mainly from their hometowns. The members, united by a common thread of resilience and creativity, craft exquisite, crocheted flowers. Each stitch embodies hope and solidarity, transforming everyday yarn into symbols of strength and support. Also spreading the love for crochet and new to Autumn Fair, Dora’s Garden will present their premium eco-friendly crocheted flowers that showcase the artisan’s creativity and preserve traditional crafting skills. Grow and make your own kits continue to build in popularity. Driven by a mission to lead a global movement toward sustainability and self-sufficiency, Urban Farm-It aspires to positively disrupt the current food production culture. Showing for the first time, visit their stand to discover the wonderful and alternative world of urban farming through accessible education and top quality resources. Established in 2019, the goal has been to simplify ‘grow your own’ practices for consumers by incorporating aquaponics, hydroponics, fungi culture, and permaculture into daily life. Their Mushroom Grow Kits look set to become a top gifting product. Their system is unlike any other mushroom kit on the market and guarantees freshness, quality and high yield. Also first timers at Autumn Fair, Craft Your Own will showcase their alcohol themed craft kits with tasting samples on offer. Co-founder Nigel Ferrier says, “Autumn Fair this year for us is a huge milestone as it will the first time our new brand – Craft Your Own will be seen at this show. It will also be the first outing of our new range. For years we produced variations of gin making kits and now we have rum, whisky and vodka joining the family. We believe in tasting is believing. So, on our stand you will be able to taste the results of using our kits. People are always surprised how good the end results are.” Willsow returns to Autumn Fair with its hugely popular range of plantable children’s books and a new range of greetings cards. Made with special handmade paper embedded with real vegetable and herb seeds, when the paper is planted in a pot of soil, vegetables and herbs will grow from the paper. Created to help teach children about the potential of our natural environment in a fun and relatable way (getting your hands dirty!), the books also highlights sustainability and the importance of recycling. Join the seasonal showcase made for buyers, for more information please visit www.autumnfair.com 31 AUTUMN FAIR
32 Empowering young minds Debra Tiffany, Marketing Manager of Brainstorm Ltd talks about the ever-expanding business bursting with creativity, inspiring kids and parents alike Tell us a little bit about the company. Where are you based? When did the company start? Brainstorm Ltd is a leading supplier of fun and educational toys based in Clitheroe, Lancashire. The company was founded back in 1995. Who founded the company and why? The business was established by Rosanne Kenealy in 1995 as the European distribution arm of a USbased educational company, Dowling Magnets. It was acquired by the families of the current directors in 2003 when the company name was changed to Brainstorm Ltd. What prompted you to launch the business? Rosanne already had a relationship with the US parent company Dowling Magnets and together they came up with a plan to form a UK-based sales, marketing and distribution hub for its educational products. Rosanne recently retired and Nick Saunders and Julie Greenwood (Rosanne’s sister) continue to run the growing firm. As well as working together for many years, Nick grew up with Julie and Rosanne as neighbours in the Northeast Lancashire village of Higham attending the same schools and sixth form college. How has the company evolved? Under our portfolio and available for distribution worldwide, we have the Brainstorm Toys range of fun science toys, designed to entertain children and to inspire them to explore the world around them. We’ve evolved significantly over the years, adding to our Brainstorm Toys range and acquiring The Original Glowstars Company brand which includes the original paper glow-in-thedark stickers and a whole range of Glow Kits, Glow 3D and Cosmic Glow. We also distribute several extremely successful ranges in the UK and ROI including StikBot, KLiXX, Aqua Dragons, The Natural History Museum and PAW Patrol licensed ranges and eco-friendly crafts craze EUGY. In recent years we’ve expanded our ranges to include more arts and crafts which has opened up even more retail channels for us and this year have launched Water Art and Create N Colour. What do you specialise in? While we’ve diversified our product portfolio, engaging educational products remain our core offering. Talk us through the current products you’re particularly excited about. Do you have a favourite? Our brand-new Water Art range was a huge hit when we launched it at the trade shows at the start of the year. We also have the cute Create N Colour collection
33 PROFILE BRAINSTORM LTD +44 (0)1200 445 113 www.brainstormltd.co.uk which is a sustainable arts and crafts range for preschoolers. The eco-friendly EUGY collectable animals range has to be my favourite product line. It launched in 2019 and kids love to build these sturdy models. With new models being added all the time there are now over 80 to collect and it has fast become a recognised brand in the arts and crafts space. Hobby & crafts have boomed over the last two years! Have you noticed any new trends? Sustainability has been a key theme in terms of the materials we use and the longevity and quality of products. How would you advise a retailer who is interested in stocking your products? We work closely with all of our retail partners to ensure that they can maximise sales of our products in store. As well as supporting all of our key ranges with marketing and PR, we also offer bespoke POS for selected ranges. For EUGY we have a wooden CDU and FSDU available which allow retailers to display to full effect. We also offer promotional items so that retailers can run themed activity days for EUGY and now Water Art and Create N Colour so children can have a hands-on experience in store. What sets you apart from your competitors? As a company with nearly 30 years within the industry, we’ve gained a reputation for providing high-quality products and are able to get orders to clients quickly. We also continuously look to extend our product lines so retailers are able to select products from different categories. As I said previously, we also support all products with marketing and PR particularly during key selling periods such as Q4 to drive brand awareness and sales. Do you visit any trade shows? Do you plan to visit any soon? We visit lots of trade shows including Toy Fair, Nuremberg, Spring Fair and The Stationery Show. What are you looking forward to most over the next year? Lots of new EUGY models will also be added in phases throughout the year and the Christmas EUGY always perform brilliantly for us. What new products can we expect from you in the future? Our product development team are consistently working on brand new products to add to our own brand portfolio as well as liaising with the most creative companies about distribution partnerships. Towards the end of the year, we’ll be launching a range that’s completely new and unlike anything people will have seen from us before. It will also be aimed at an older age demographic so it’s a launch we’re really excited about.
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