49 COMPANY PROFILE customers with less experience and time. And our new Felt Craft Pennants launched this spring have been a real hit, becoming one of our most successful launches ever. How often do you launch new ranges? As a small company, this does vary. We aim for two bigger releases each spring and autumn, and then have a few smaller launches in-between when we just can’t wait to share the new designs! How would you advise a retailer who is interested in stocking your products? We always love welcoming new shops to our crafty family, and we have made ordering as simple as possible with our own wholesale website and our successful Faire store. We have low minimums and fair shipping costs, and are here to help with any queries or recommendations. The best first step is to sign up for an account on our wholesale website www. hawthornhandmadewholesale.co.uk and we can then have a chat! What sets you apart from your competitors? Our expert written instructions are second to none, with clear photos, written and illustrated step-by-step guides that hold your hand all the way. They give beginner crafters a new-found confidence and all the skills needed to carry on with the craft after they’ve completed the kit. We’ve even had feedback that our ‘Guide to’ booklets included in kits are better than a lot of books available! We also care deeply about the quality of the materials and tools we use, for instance using British wool in our needle felting kits and quality wooden embroidery hoops that don’t splinter or bend. Do you visit any trade shows? We love a good trade show and have been to over 50 in the last 10 years! Our favourite is definitely h+h americas in Chicago which we’ve been at since the first show. The sense of community they have built makes it far more than just another show. We’ve also been regulars at CHSI Stitches for 10 years now, and we’ve recently found a lot of success at the London Stationery Show which has expanded into craft. What are you looking forward to for 2024-25? We always have a lot going on, but the next year looks particularly fun…! We’ll be launching two new transfer embroidery books in Spring 2025 with David and Charles which you’ll be able to buy directly from us, and I’ll also be on your screens this winter on the BBC as a craft mentor on the new series of Make it at Market, which is incredibly exciting! What new products can we expect from you in the future? The ongoing success of our mini needle felting kits will be continuing with more adorable and easy-to-make designs including a Baby Dragon, plus we’re adding to our best-selling felt craft kits with a Winter Garland celebrating all things cosy and festive, and a top secret new style of kit for spring 2025. There will also be new launches of embroidery kits in both our large and mini sizes coming soon! HAWTHORN HANDMADE +44 (0)1258 863 873 wholesale@hawthornhandmade.co.uk www.hawthornhandmadewholesale.co.uk
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