WWW.CRAFTFOCUS.COM OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER FOR CRAFT HOBBY + STITCH INTERNATIONAL AND PROUD SPONSOR OF TRENDING NOW ‘TIS THE SEASON Fami KEEPSAKES Patchwork & quilting lu ! Embroidery & tapestry Sewing & stitching Company profiles CREATE YOUR MASTERPIECE Quality art supplies Celebrate the festive season with Zweigart
For addi onal informa on and stockists please contact: Jakar Interna onal Limited, 410 Centennial Park, Els ee WD6 3TJ Tel: 020 8381 7000 email: info@jakar.co.uk TECHNALO RGB carandache.com Discover the power of graphite fused with the magic of water-soluble colour thanks to the Caran d’Ache RGB pencils and grafcubes. Caran d’Ache. Swiss Made excellence since 1915.
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 80 Bookstand The latest book releases 90 Tried & tested Craft Focus account manager, Tracy Voice, tries out the new Odif 505 fabric glue stick available from Creative Products Distribution October/ November 2024 80 33 FEATURES 33 Jingle all the way Part two of our Christmas special 41 Crafty kits Start a new hobby with a craft kit – everything you need is in the box! 49 Et voila! It’s never a bad time to top up your art supplies 57 Sewing & stitching Sewing essentials to keep customers coming back for more 63 Patchwork & quilting Family favourites 67 Embroidery & tapestry Stunning embroidery kits whatever your level 71 Glues & adhesives Sticky solutions solved with a little help from Mark Wilson at Creative Products Distribution 74 Trend file! Cute canine designs for all the dog lovers out there 90 23
4 BUSINESS 82 Understanding Consumer Trends: A Generational Breakdown Understanding consumer behaviour is essential for businesses aiming to connect with their target audience effectively. Spring &Autumn Fair give us a deeper understanding 85 Standing charges Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), looks at why standing charges are a headache for small businesses 86 Exhibition protection ACID CEO Dids Macdonald looks at design protection at exhibitions and how to be prepared SHOWS 23 Shows, news & events Stay up to date with what’s happening in your industry 29 75 year’s and counting Harrogate Christmas & Gift lowdown 41 69 FOCUS ON 31 Koseli Handmade Lynne Mold, owner of Koseli Handmade talks to Craft Focus about her ethical, fair trade company 38 Oakwood Archer Ltd Stuart Bestwick, Managing Director of Oakwood Archer Ltd chats to Craft Focus about their exclusive ranges and new website launch 46 Cygnet Yarns Katie Stephenson, owner of Cygnet Yarns Ltd. Talks to Craft Focus about their impressive ranges of quality yarns and bossing 20 years in the knitting world! 54 By Chand Jyoti Chand, Creative Director of By Chand chats colourways, customisation and all things knitwear 78 Retailer interview Sarah Holmes, owner of Pencil Me In & Seasgair Store chats to Craft Focus about their crafty offerings! 49
Faff-free framing for crafters and artists UK Patents: GB2559609B GB2572341B US Patent: US10,588,434 w Trademark 17868192 ©Differentiate Design Limited In an industry that has barely changed in centuries, Pop-up FramesTM make it easier, quicker and eco-friendlier to fill your walls with the things you love. Each frame comes flat-packed in 4 pieces made from FSC certified 350gsm Italian card. The frames can be cut to fit all types of artworks from 10cm up to 92cm with just a pair of scissors, then easily assembled and hung in a few minutes. Contact us today to stock Pop-up Frames and join the framing revolution. Art prints Paper art Origami Kids’ art Sketches Cards 3D Canvasses Photos One frame. Multiple sizes. Endless possibilities.
Books Inspire to from PomPoms to ©Pokémon, our books have something for everyone! Contact emilyf@davidandcharles.com Or visit www.davidandcharles.com 9781446312667 RRP £19.99 9781446313558 RRP £16.99 9781446313183 RRP £16.99 9781446313862 RRP £19.99 9781446313329 RRP £15.99 9781446312810 RRP £15.99 ©2024 Pokémon / Nintendo / Creatures / GAME FREAK. 9781446312773 RRP £19.99 9781446313565 RRP £15.99 9781446314319 RRP £14.99 (£12.49 + VAT) 9781446314302 RRP £14.99 (£12.49 + VAT) 9781446313442 RRP £16.99 View our latest catalogue here 9781446314357 RRP £12.99
7 EDITOR’S LETTER On the cover Icy blue tones combined with subtle beige tones are the perfect match for Zweigart’s ‘Nordic Moose’ theme. This colour combination creates great highlights - for example, on this evenweave fabric Lugana 25 ct. with all-over print ‘Splash’ (3835/7449). With this lovely moose design, we can dream ourselves into the beautiful north, where reindeer and moose wander through snowy winter landscapes. The cross-stitch design was embroidered on Zweigart’s evenweave fabric Murano 32 ct. (3984/5106). More information about the fabrics as well as the free crossstitch design can be found at: www.zweigart.de/embroidery Cosy season Summer came and went pretty fast, I’m sure you’ll all agree! The weather was temperamental and retail was fair. According to the Office of National Statistics, retail sales volumes (quantity bought) were estimated to have risen by 0.5 per cent in July 2024, as people opted for the high street rather than the beaches and parks. Moving on, you may have already started your Halloween displays and planning for the Golden Quarter. If you’re still in need of topping up your stock rooms, do check out our product features that are jam packed with craft kits, embroidery hoops, art supplies and cross stitch kits. I’ve also picked my top 15 festive items your customers are sure to love. If that’s not enough, we have a feature dedicated to patchwork and quilting - I for one would love to try my hand at this skill. Snuggling up under one of your own creations or gifting a special keepsake would be a wonderful feeling, I’m sure. As always, do check out our company profiles that focus on some of the best in the industry, giving you a bucketload of inspiration. We chat with Cygnet Yarns and Koseli Handmade to name a few. Enjoy the issue! 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 Hantex Peak Dale Products
BEHRENS FABRICS ARE DELIGHTED TO INTRODUCE ANNA MARIA TEXTILES – A NEW DIVISION OF NORTHCOTT. CONTACT US TO ARRANGE A VIEWING OF THESE NEW VIBRANT COLLECTIONS Call: 0161 872 1444 WWW.BEHRENS.CO.UK 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?
9 INDUSTRY NEWS ICHF Events announces strategic expansion ICHF is excited to announce that the beloved Crafting Live Events at Sandown Park and Doncaster Racecourse have officially joined the ICHF Events family, marking a significant step forward in both companies’ commitment to the crafting community. This strategic move will enhance the experience for both exhibitors and crafters, ensuring that the rich tradition of live crafting events continues to flourish. Karl Shaw, Managing Director of Highlight Crafts, said, “We’ve worked with ICHF for nearly 30 years through its Creative Craft Shows around the UK and are thrilled to bring Crafting Live into the ICHF family. This partnership allows us to unify our efforts in nurturing and growing the crafting community. With Crafting Live now part of ICHF Events, we can provide even greater support to our exhibitors and create unparalleled experiences for crafters across the UK.” Stephanie Weightman will continue her dedicated support to crafters at these events, ensuring that the spirit of Crafting Live is maintained and enhanced within the ICHF Creative Craft Shows. Simon Burns, Managing Director of ICHF Events, shared his excitement, saying, “This is like welcoming a new member to the family. Crafting Live will now be a part of our yearlong calendar of events, offering exhibitors and attendees alike more opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. With live demos, hands-on workshops, influencer hubs, and celebrity partners, we’re bringing the wonderful world of crafting to an even wider audience.” For exhibitors, this means a strengthened platform to showcase their brands to a passionate and engaged audience, free from the challenges of online marketing. For crafters, it’s an opportunity to deepen their skills, share their passion, and connect face-to-face with like-minded individuals in a vibrant community setting. Simon Burns, adds, “As the crafting industry continues to evolve, with the decline of high street craft stores and the rise of online alternatives, live events like ours are more important than ever. They provide a unique space where crafters can experience the joy of learning and sharing in person, ensuring that the art of crafting remains a cherished and growing part of our culture. We are confident that this partnership will inspire even more creativity and passion within the crafting community, and we look forward to seeing new and returning visitors at our upcoming events.” Industry news Latest news from the craft industry New Hunter Price collaboration Hunter Price International has been named the consumer product partner in the UK and Europe for the high-profile collaboration between two iconic brands, L.O.L. Surprise! and Crayola for their L.O.L. Surprise! Loves Crayola collaboration announced late last year. The collaboration encourages self-expression and creativity through an engaging and impactful product strategy of dolls, playsets, and consumer products globally. The creative team at Hunter Price developed the vibrant and imaginative debut collection across accessories, bags, games & puzzles, health & beauty, home & lifestyle, stationery, and creative play, all of which will be available in retail later this year. L.O.L. Surprise! and Crayola coming together has created a huge opportunity for an extensive range, particularly around stationery and creative play activities. The collection features everything from backto-school sets, notebooks, journals, arts and crafts, slime, stickers, stencils, make your own and colour your own doll house, bracelet kits, and so much more! The innovative collection from Hunter Price has already had a hugely positive market response after being featured at the opening trade shows of the year in London and Nuremberg.
10 New reps for Search Press Search Press is delighted to announce the appointment of Gavin Morton as their representative in the art and craft trade in Scotland. He can be reached at morton_gavincrafts@hotmail.com or through sales@searchpress.com This comes following two new appointments at the start of 2024. Back in January, Gemma Mills and Bob Mitchell were appointed as the representatives in the art and craft trade in Southwest and Southeast England respectively. Gemma was previously the manager of the award-winning Yarn Dispensary in Faversham, Kent. For enquiries regarding Southwest England, Gemma Mills can be contacted at: gemmamills2012@gmail.com. For Southeast, Bob can be reached via email at: bobm@searchpress.com and sales@searchpress.com The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair returns to Victoria Baths The iconic Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair returns to Victoria Baths for its 17th year, from 18th to 20th October. Playing host to over 200 contemporary designers, makers and artists selected for their outstanding designs, flair and talent, the award-winning show offers you a chance to take home some truly original and beautiful craft. Visitors can look forward to GR Hawes’s exquisite handcrafted glass sculptures, a joyful celebration of colour and culture in British Pakistani artist Nehal Aamir’s ceramics, bespoke contemporary furniture and lighting design by Nick James and the latest collections from acclaimed jewellers Yvonne Gilhooly and Jennie Gill. They’ll be joined by over 40 newcomers including knitwear designer Millicent Sanders, fresh from exhibiting at the Venice Biennale, and recent Royal College of Arts graduates, jeweller Lois Lo and goldsmith Hiumin Zhang. From stunning large-scale wall panels made from hundreds of tiny porcelain petals by Ukranian artist Batis Ceramics to the delicate intricacy of paper artist Kate Kato’s life like sculptures of flowers and insects this year’s line-up of exhibitors promises to captivate and inspire. The Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair puts a spotlight on the breadth of contemporary craft and design talent in the UK today and celebrates emerging talent. The upcoming show sees the return of Green Grads - a showcase of 20 UK graduates working across product design, craft and design engineering with innovative and sustainable ideas to heal the planet, and new for this year - Great Northern Graduates, a collective of 12 UK graduates creating outstanding work – the ones to watch! For the full maker line-up and to buy tickets, visit: www.greatnorthernevents.co.uk/gnccf
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. 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
12 New show director of Christmasworld and Creativeworld After a successful transition phase, the consumer goods trade fairs Christmasworld and Creativeworld have a new show director. On 1st August 2024, Stefan Schopp took over from Eva Olbrich, who commenced her well-deserved retirement at the end of July. “We’re looking forward to further developing our leading consumer goods fairs with Stefan Schopp and so offering our customers the best solutions,” says Philipp Ferger, Vice President Consumer Goods Fairs Messe Frankfurt. “We benefit from his extensive experience in the trade fair industry and wish him a good start”, Ferger continues. Stefan Schopp has been in the trade fair business for over ten years. Before joining Messe Frankfurt as Sales Manager of Christmasworld in 2018, the business graduate worked in sales at Messe Stuttgart. In addition to the new management, the leading trade fairs will also receive a tailwind for the coming order season through a new team structure. Next trade fair dates Ambiente, Christmasworld and Creativeworld will continue to take place at the same time at the Frankfurt exhibition centre. However, they will be moved to the beginning of February to ensure that the trade fair dates are harmonised. Just Fabrics launches soft furnishing academy Just Fabrics, the renowned fabric retailer, has announced the launch of Just Fabrics The Academy. This new platform offers a collection of expert-led video courses designed to empower users to create stunning, one-of-a-kind soft furnishings for their homes. The Academy offers a variety of courses to choose from, including: Frill Cushion, Beginners Roman Blinds, Beginners Curtains, Piped Cushion, and Box Cushions. The video-based lessons can be accessed via an online hub, allowing students to learn at their own pace, from the comfort of their own homes, and fit lessons around their busy schedules. The courses are taught by industry-renowned professionals, including Louise Packwood, an accredited soft furnishings and upholstery instructor and home interior enthusiast. “Sewing allows you to bring your personal style to life,” says Louise. “By crafting your own soft furnishings, you can transform your home into a beautiful and unique reflection of you. The Academy is here to help you unlock your creativity and discover the joy of learning a new skill you can cherish for years to come.” During the process sewers will become familiar with a range of skills including inserting invisible zips, and creating traditional piping and contemporary frills, alongside several stitch techniques which will be useful for future sewing projects for years to come. Alongside the course content, the Just Fabrics Academy fosters a supportive community for interior design lovers to connect, share ideas, and inspire each other on their sewing journey. Ross Pieters, Managing Director at Just Fabrics, commented: “We’ve been developing our expertise in fabrics and interior design for over 35 years, and are so excited to share this passion with our Just Fabrics The Academy students. The Academy offers interior lovers a unique opportunity to broaden their skills and transform their homes with completely bespoke pieces. Plus, with a growing library of courses, our community of sewers will have endless opportunities to hone their craft and expand their skills.” Available online from 19th September, courses start from £115. For more information, please visit www.jfacademy.co.uk
01226 286 664 • mail@bandtwholesale.co.uk www.facebook.com/BandTWholesaleLtd www.bandtwholesale.co.uk From a comprehensive range of yarns to tools and accessories Koseli Handmade Our beautifully made goods are produced by hand in Nepal,by talented women working under fair trade conditions. There is no minimum order or quantity to enable you to try out new lines. We are proud to be a member of BAFTS,the British Association of Fairtrade Shops and Suppliers info@koselihandmade.co.uk 07812 161 168 www.koselihandmade.co.uk One of Europe’s most popular and talented young textile stars, Lærke Bagger is also a vocal proponent of knitting as therapy. In her latest book she combines memoir and knitting guide, sharing her personal reflections on the healing power of knitting, with 12 patterns and over 30 designs. Lærke’s unique and stylish knits celebrate rule-breaking, innovation, and the practice of knitting through your feelings. Hardcover, 272 pages | RRP £30.00 ISBN 978-3-7913-8045-2 The author of Close Knit and the creator of the Alone Together sweater, Lærke Bagger returns with a new collection of quirky patterns Available Now
15 BRAND SPANKING NEW Brand spanking new Check out some new and exciting products in the current market MARVLING BROS LTD Celebrate Halloween with this Day of the Dead ‘Mellow’ Mini Cross Stitch Kit. All Souls Day is a time to honour loved ones who have passed, and what better way to do so than by creating this beautiful miniature ‘Day of the Dead’ themed cross stitch. Featuring a skull design, this kit captures the essence of the celebration with vibrant, jewel-like colours set against black Aida fabric. In just a couple of hours, you’ll have a charming sampler that can be framed, turned into a card, or used in another craft project. The RRP is £9.95. info@inamatchbox.com https://inamatchbox.com BRAINSTORM LIMITED Brainstorm has added to its successful EUGY range which is distributed in the UK and ROI exclusively for Dodoland. There are 12 new 3D EUGY models to collect and create. New characters include the Tasmanian Tiger, Cardinal, Fairy Wren, Bald Eagle, Desert Spadefoot Toad, Anglerfish, Toucan, Kakapo, Wombat, Bronto, Mosa and Pangolin. The sustainable models are made from environmentally friendly, biodegradable card with natural eco-friendly ink and non-toxic glue and are built by following a simple number sequence. The resulting sturdy EUGY can be displayed and children are clamouring to collect them all. Bespoke POS designed by Brainstorm is available for retailers and tailored to varied spaces with slat wall POS and sustainable CDUs and FSDUs. Wooden CDUs come free with any order of 10 cases or more of any EUGY and comes with free display model and the FSDU is available on orders over 54 cases. sales@brainstormltd.co.uk www.brainstormltd.co.uk JAKAR INTERNATIONAL LIMITED Introducing the vibrant Special Edition set of 18 new Supracolor Aquarelle colour pencils, designed to beautifully complement the existing range of 120 colours. Since their launch in 1988, Supracolor Aquarelle pencils have been cherished by artists around the globe for their remarkable covering power and exceptional colour vibrancy. The secret to their enduring popularity lies in their unrivalled features: a soft lead, ideal for producing large scale works, and the ability to be used dry on paper, blurred by hand or as a watercolour. This water-soluble range grants endless creative possibilities. Housed in the iconic red metal box, this set showcases the same unparalleled Swiss craftsmanship, using FSC-certified cedar wood, now presented in exciting new hues. Additionally, the set includes a QR code that provides exclusive access to the podcast ‘Secrets of Colour’. Hosted by Eric Vitus, Director of Fine Arts at Caran d’Ache, this podcast delves into the rich history of colour and reveals the fascinating secrets behind the new shades in this special edition. +44 (0)20 8381 7000 info@jakar.co.uk www.Jakar.co.uk
16 PLAYPRESS Build and play with Playpress’s biggest ever set - the fantastic new Moomins house! This set contains The Moomin House, Moomintroll, Moominmamma, Moominpappa, Snufkin and Little My. Playpress is an award-winning world of plastic-free construction toys created to help children create new stories with toys that were affordable and eco-friendly. As a family-owned business, care and quality really matter to Playpress. team@playpresstoys.com www.playpresstoys.com EXACLAIR Avenue Mandarine, the manufacturers of educational toys and games, has recently extended its selection of popular Tattoo Mania packs with the launch of the new Christmas and Wild editions. Designed for ages 5+, each pack contains a series of fun and striking temporary tattoos for children. Simply cut out a pattern, remove the protective sheet and apply to the child’s skin, before rubbing for 30 seconds. The Christmas pack features several colourful festive themed images, including an elf, snowman, presents and Santa. The Wild edition is based upon the fashionable Coloriage Wild range and boasts a collection of nature inspired designs by the drawings of Emmanuelle Colin. sales@exaclair.co.uk +44 (0)1553 696 600 https://exaclairlimited.com PEAK DALE PRODUCTS Designed by renowned papercraft artist Rob Ives, this delightful, animated, dancing diplodocus model is a must-have for any craft enthusiast. The kit includes printed card pieces, making it easy to assemble. Simply follow the instructions to cut, fold, and glue the pieces together, creating three diplodocuses that dip their necks one by one. Perfect for both kids and adults, this charming range featuring many animals and birds is a fun project that brings papercraft to life! +44 (0)1298 78447 sales@peakdaleproducts.co.uk www.peakdaleproducts.co.uk
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.
18 HAWTHORN HANDMADE This Baby Dragon Needle Felting Kit is possibly more cute than fearsome, just right for a new craft project! The kit is perfect for beginners and experienced felters alike, and is your gateway to the fluffy, cosy world of needle felting. With everything you need tucked into one adorable package, whether it’s a gift for a craft-loving friend or a treat for yourself, this kit promises hours of woolly fun. +44 (0)1258 863 873 www.hawthornhandmadewholesale.co.uk NORO Saiun is the rainbow effect of the mist between glowing clouds. Constructed with many colours like its big brother ITO, the end result is an unforgettable array of saturated hues. Each ball embarks on a colour journey of happiness and reminds us that spring is right around the corner. Sauin adds a touch of nylon for strength making it an excellent choice for sweaters, socks and winter hats. Bordering between lightweight and Aran, the possibilities are endless! With 150 grams per 492 yards, Saiun offers great value to all. customerservice@knittingfever.com https://knittingfever.com JODY LONG YARNS Jody Long loves the beauty of Andes & the Alpacas, along with the Peruvian Wool that’s harvested there and spun into fabulous yarns. Amo (I love you in Spanish) + Andes = Andeamo! Made in Peru, this super-bulky wool/alpaca blend is the yarn we’ve all been waiting for. Lightly spun twoply is a dream to knit with and on US size 15s, it will fly off your needles. This updated version of the Super-Bulky, Jody Long classic, is sure to be known as a staple for years to come. As always, the company offers pattern support for all of Jody’s designs. Feel the difference with Andeamo, from Jody Long Yarns. customerservice@knittingfever.com https://knittingfever.com
Craft Kits for Beginners & Beyond www.hawthornhandmadewholesale.co.uk or email wholesale@hawthornhandmade.co.uk 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
20 SCHIFFER CRAFT Slow down and experience the therapeutic benefits of slow stitching with these 12 charming embroidery projects for absolute beginners and beyond! Written by popular fibre art designer and author Celeste Johnston, the projects focus on uplifting messages, lovely florals, and the comfort of home. From fluffy sweaters and stacks of books to gentle affirmations and meditative mandalas, you’ll feel the warmth with every stitch. Each project includes a detailed reference photograph, step-by-step instructions, a full-sized perforated pattern, and everything you need to know about stitches, thread, and materials. It’s a perfect book for beginners and advanced stitchers alike! sales@gazellebookservices.co.uk https://gazellebookservices.co.uk/products/9780764368585 LAVINIA STAMPS The Dream Witch Collection is brand new from Lavinia Stamps and consists of 14 new Halloween themed stamps. +44 (0)1824 710 691 cs@laviniastamps.com www.laviniastamps.com PENTEL (STATIONERY) LTD. The Pentel Arts range offers an exciting collection of products for drawing, decorating, designing and creating. Recent developments include new packaging additions to the Paint Marker family, with the introduction of special sets of colours in cardboard wallets, perfect for all kinds of projects. The sets of six and eight are available in original, vibrant colours or shimmering metallic shades including five new pearlescent colours. A choice of fine or medium bullet tip is offered in the wallets, but the full range of loose markers also includes a non-scratch extra fine tip. The go-to tool for decorating a wide range of surfaces Pentel Paint Markers are perfect for adding colour to a dull area of the garden with some personalised pebbles, creating a vibrant canvas to cover an uneven wall, or perhaps painting a pretty design on a plain glass vase. +44 (0)1793 823 333 salesoffice@pentel.co.uk www.pentel.co.uk PRESTEL One of Europe’s most popular and talented young textile stars, Lærke Bagger is also a vocal proponent of knitting as therapy. In her latest combination of memoir and knitting guide, she shares the poignant story of her relationship with her father - from his early abandonment of the family to their reconciliation and his death. Woven throughout these personal essays are a number of chic and quirky new patterns -including the Inner Child sweater, the Let It All Hang Out scarf, and Lærke’s version of the Scandinavian classic, which she calls the Family Sweater. As Lærke knits her way through grief, an identity crisis, and the reconstruction of her family life, she offers support for knitters on their own journeys of self-acceptance: tips for embracing imperfection, clever project-saving strategies, and the encouragement to experiment with ribbons, beads, fringes and different types of yarn. sales@prestel-uk.co.uk www.prestel.com
Early crafty Christmas gifts now in at peakdaleproducts.co.uk Phone: 01298 78447 Email: Sales@peakdaleproducts.co.uk Coming soon 01200 445113 • sales@brainstormltd.co.uk• www.brainstormltd.co.uk Brainstormltd Brainstormltd BrainstormLtd Enjoy Glue Assemble SAFE EDUCATIONAL EDUCATIONAL SUSTAINABLE CARDBOARD PACK ECO Brainstorm-ltd
23 SHOWS & EVENTS This season’s most unmissable events Shows, news & events Toy Fair 2025 is sold out The British Toy & Hobby Association (BTHA) is excited to announce that all exhibition space for Toy Fair 2025 is now sold out, several months before the show takes place. Any companies still looking for space are encouraged to apply online and join the waiting list now. Toy Fair, the UK’s largest dedicated toy, game, and hobby trade show, is set to welcome more than 250 exhibiting companies, both returning and new, to Olympia Events in London, from the 21st to 23rd January 2025. The show will take place across both lower and upper levels of the Grand and National Halls as well as part of the Upper West Hall. Toy Fair offers the first opportunity of the year in the UK for toy companies to promote their brand-new product launches and trends for the year ahead as well as valuable networking opportunities with buyers, licensors, media and the wider industry, all under one roof. This year’s Toy Fair will see the return of companies including Spin Master Toys, Big Potato Games, The Lego Group, Gibsons, Golden Bear, Alley Cat Games, Curious Universe, Iron Studios, Character Options Ltd and Marvin’s Magic, along with some new exhibitors such as Little Dutch, Small World Toys, Target Darts, Puzzle Post UK, and many more! Additionally, Toy Fair TV will be back to highlight the wide range of innovative products on display, including plush toys, games, puzzles, tech toys, construction sets, and more, via stand visits and the live stream. Majen Immink, Head of Toy Fair, said: “It’s incredible to be sold out once again with so many months still to go. We look forward to assisting our exhibitors with their preparations over the coming months and to putting on the best platform we can for the industry.” For more information about joining the waiting list, please contact Rebecca Deeming-Mitchell at rebecca@btha.co.uk Visitor registration for Toy Fair 2025 will open in late September on the Toy Fair website, www.toyfair.co.uk, when the floorplan and exhibitor list will also be live for planning. You can stay up to date with all the latest news for Toy Fair 2025 on Instagram @toyfairuk, LinkedIn and by visiting www.toyfair.co.uk Diary dates Harrogate Christmas & Gift 12th-15th January, 2025 Harrogate Convention Centre www.harrogatefair.com Giving & Living 12th – 14th January, 2025 Westpoint, Exeter https://givingliving.co.uk Toy Fair 21st – 23rd January, 2025 Olympia, London www.toyfair.co.uk Spring Fair 2nd – 5th February, 2025 NEC, Birmingham www.springfair.com Creativeworld 7th – 11th February, 2025 Messe Frankfurt https://creativeworld. messefrankfurt.com CHSI Stitches 23rd -24th February, 2025 Birmingham NEC www.chsi.co.uk h+h Cologne 7th – 9th March, 2025 Cologne, Germany www.hh-cologne.com h+h Americas 7th – 9th May, 2024 Rosemont, USA www.hh-americas.com h+h Americas 2025 setting records The fourth edition of h+h Americas is gearing up to be a record-breaking event, with significant milestones achieved well ahead of schedule. Currently, the event has attracted 310 exhibitors from 23 countries, marking a remarkable growth rate of over 55 per cent. This surge in participation includes over 60 first-time exhibitors, underscoring the event’s expanding appeal within the handicraft industry in the US. To accommodate this growth, the exhibit space is expanding from two to four halls. These halls will feature a diverse array of crafts showcased in themed pavilions, including the Indie Untangled Newcomer, Craft Book, Sewing & Quilt, Bead & Button, Pattern Designer, Needlearts, and the new ‘Spinning & Weaving’ Pavilion. Education remains a cornerstone of h+h Americas, with the Craft Industry Alliance preparing innovative and enriching educational sessions. Upgrades to the Master Class programme are underway to provide enhanced value and a more comprehensive curriculum, aimed at fostering professional development and business growth. Business classes will continue to offer insightful content tailored to support the community. New initiatives for this year include the debut of the Sewing Dealers Summit, catering specifically to the sewing dealer network and individuals involved in selling, maintaining, repairing, and operating sewing machines. This summit will address industry challenges and provide specialised education to drive success within these businesses. Additionally, the inaugural Content Creator Summit, in collaboration with GoSadi, will explore the intersection of textiles, fibre arts, and technology through presentations, panels, and networking opportunities. The summit will also feature a ‘Brand Mix & Matching Mixer’, facilitating new partnerships, followed by an exclusive show floor preview. Among the highlights are new national pavilions, with debuts from Japan and Thailand alongside the established German Pavilion. For further details and to view the current exhibitor list, please visit the official h+h Americas website: www.hh-americas.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 more... Autumn Fair draws in high-calibre buyers Autumn Fair, the UK’s seasonal trade event for Home, Gift, and Fashion, has solidified its position as a key order-writing trade event, drawing in a high-calibre of decision-makers and influential buyers. This season saw a six per cent increase in buyers actively looking to source and buy new products, a 20 per cent rise in the number of buyers with sole or joint purchasing responsibility, and 30 per cent brand new buyers, underscoring the event’s continuing importance for the retail industry. Soraya Gadelrab, Event Director of Autumn Fair says: “50 per cent of the buyers who attended are business owners who take the time away from their store to buy and source new products at Autumn Fair which underlies the importance of coming. They love and value the community the show offers, and they trust in it to provide the newness they need for their valued customers.” Buyers could discover more than 800 exhibitors and touch and feel over 500,000 products and new launches ready for immediate purchase. With 95 per cent of buyers from the UK, the show’s wide variety of exhibitors attracted an impressive range of retailers from multiples, department stores and garden centres to charities, heritage sites and independents including Next, British Garden Centre, Fenwick, British Heart Foundation, Haven, Marks & Spencer, Tesco, Poundland, River Island, Champneys, WHSmith, ZSL, Squires, Costco, Dunelm, TJX Europe, TJ Hughes, Card Factory, Ryman, Morley Stores Ltd, Aldi UK, G Rutherford & Co, Elphicks, Lucy & Yak, RSPCA, Farmfoods, Walt Disney Company, Blue Diamond, Dobbies, Lark London, New Look, Homebase, Osprey, Liverpool FC, Lakeland, Waitrose, River Island, Forbidden Planet and National Trust. Some 85 per cent of attendees had sole or joint responsibility for purchasing and 40 per cent of attendees came with a planned spending budget between £25k - £100k. Returning buyers demonstrated continued purchasing power with 87 per cent making purchases, a clear indication of the event’s effectiveness in driving sales. The show offered the chance for retailers to capitalise on the year’s final purchasing opportunity, as it continues to put the spotlight on Britain’s independent retailers and help safeguard their future. The New Business Pavilion offered buyers an opportunity to discover emerging brands across sectors such as Home, Living, Décor, Gift, Beauty & Wellbeing, and Moda Fashion. A must-visit for those seeking new and launching brands which induced Flourish Home Interiors, Meraki Notebooks, Skyn Bakery, and AddSquirrel, who all reported a good show with interest from key buyers and order writing. Event Director, Gadelrab concluded: “Autumn Fair has once again proven to be the leading order-writing trade event in the UK, attracting a significant number of influential buyers and decision-makers. With over 800 exhibitors and a wide range of new product launches, the show continues to be the destination for retailers to discover unique products, connect with peers, and prepare for the crucial holiday season.”
EYES ON CREATIVITY! Creativeworld is the biggest international trade fair for hobby, handicrafts and artists’ supplies. A unique range of products makes this the world’s hub for DIY inspiration. Be there with us as we launch into the new season’s orders. Find out more and book your tickets. info@uk.messefrankfurt.com Tel. +44 (0) 14 83 48 39 84 7. – 10. 2. 2025 NEW: Friday to Monday FRANKFURT / MAIN
26 Messe Frankfurt: Preview of the 2025 trade fair trio After restarting as a trade fair trio in 2023 and establishing it as the largest networking platform and hub for the global consumer goods industry this year, the three leading consumer goods fairs Ambiente, Christmasworld and Creativeworld are further expanding their position. The number of registrations for 2025 is already above the previous year’s level, the exhibition grounds will once again be fully booked and preparations for new highlights in the fringe programme and initiatives for selected visitor target groups are in full swing. “We’re on track and are currently setting the course for an unmissable trade fair experience in 2025,” says Julia Uherek, Vice President Consumer Goods Fairs Messe Frankfurt, opening the online press conference at the end of June 2024. This one-stop shop trade fair provided orientation, inspiration and solutions to current challenges in the market at the beginning of the year. “This is exactly what we’re building on for 2025. The key lever is to boost new customer business, as the economy is still under pressure due to global tensions, political regulation and ongoing changes in consumer behaviour. Faceto-face meetings to open up new export markets and sales channels remain irreplaceable. This also applies in particular to the growth areas of hospitality and contract business. We’re convinced of this and are in close contact with the relevant partners, experts and associations in order to continuously open up new business opportunities,” emphasises Uherek. “After every trade fair, we analyse the feedback from our exhibitors and trade buyers in detail and optimise where the market requires it. There’s always potential for optimisation,” adds Philipp Ferger, Vice President Consumer Goods Fairs Messe Frankfurt. Overall, the return of registrations for 2025 is extremely good. These includes many well-known brands as well as some returning and new exhibitors. “At this point in time, we already have more registrations than at the same time last year. We are once again occupying the entire exhibition centre, continuing the hall layout with only minimal adjustments and are pleased to have an excellent rebooking rate for all three trade fairs. The Global Sourcing segment is also back with strong participation and very high-quality offerings. This means that we’re starting the new season with a tailwind,” adds Ferger. Christmasworld and Creativeworld confirmed as leading trade fairs with strong bookings “The extremely fast rebooking rate is excellent proof that Christmasworld is undisputedly strong in the market... After all, its focus on the wow effect of Christmas and seasonal decorations is unique worldwide. All the big players are on board and we have succeeded in attracting new companies and winning back important companies, especially for the core segment of Visual Merchandising & Lighting,” emphasises Ferger. In addition to Christmas decorations, seasonal decorations will increasingly be showcased in 2025. This will give retailers even more inspiration for the whole year. For the four-day Creativeworld, which will start at the same time as Ambiente and Christmasworld for the first time in 2025, top brands such as Clairefontaine, Royal Talens and Schmincke are already registered. With its one-of-a-kind product portfolio, it will be a global centre for DIY inspiration and a very lively B2B industry meeting place for the professional creative community. To optimise visitor access, Creativeworld Trends will move back to Hall 1.2, while the Creative Academy with its colourful workshop programme will remain in Hall 1.1. What’s happening with the digital offerings? Supplementary online platforms such as Conzoom Solutions, the Nmedia.hub order platform, the digital exhibitor and product search, social media channels and smart matchmaking provide retailers with fresh impetus, an overview of relevant industry topics and the opportunity to place orders and network all year round. “We’re continuously expanding our role as a yearround business enabler. Conzoom Circle is the new umbrella for our global consumer goods trade fair portfolio in Germany and many other locations, as well as for our year-round digital offerings. We’re thus linking all 30 of Messe Frankfurt’s industry events around the globe and bundling industry knowledge and expertise,” says Uherek Next trade fair dates Ambiente, Christmasworld and Creativeworld will continue to take place at the same time at the Frankfurt exhibition centre, 7th to 11th February. However, they will be moved to the beginning of February to ensure that the trade fair dates are harmonised. Visit: https://creativeworld.messefrankfurt.com https://christmasworld.messefrankfurt.com
Harrogate Christmas & Gift Years www.harrogatefair.com • Tel: 01902 882280 • simon@harrogatefair.com Harrogate Convention Centre 12th - 15th January 2025 www.harrogatefair.com The UK’s ONLY Christmas trade show!
VIEW OUR FLIPBOOK CATALOGUE www.artstat.co.uk Scan to register or visit springfair.com Cra bestselling collections at Spring Fair 2025’s trusted Gi destination. GIFT SF_advert_craftfocus.pdf 1 18/10/2024 15:46
75 YEARS AND COUNTING... As the only Christmas-specific trade show in the UK, Harrogate Christmas & Gift takes place from 12th - 15th January 2025. Here’s what to expect! There are very few exhibitions that can boast more than 50 years trading, but Harrogate Christmas & Gift which takes place in Harrogate each January, could well be the oldest in the UK for the trade sector with a ‘birth’ date of 1950 and 75 years in the running. According to an article published by Jonas Event Technology, the longest running trade only exhibition in the world is NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) inaugurated in 1901 and created its first trade show in the USA in 1902. The UK’s longest running consumer event is the Ideal Home Show which first opened its doors in Olympia, London in 1908. So what’s this perfect recipe that makes the Ideal Home Show and Harrogate Christmas & Gift so popular that people return in hoards year after year and never seem to tire of planning and walking the exhibition halls? Simon Anslow, show organiser for Harrogate Christmas & Gift, suggests an answer: “In the last decade particularly, people seem to be seeking solutions to experience an idyllic lifestyle, create beautiful homes and hanker for the nostalgic past. Both events present a constant flow of products offering fresh ideas and new possibilities that evolve with current fashions and trends. “Harrogate Christmas & Gift is mostly about Christmas and as the biggest trade show in the UK for this sector, has the greatest range of festive products that retailers can find anywhere. In fact, buyers attend the show from all over Europe and even further afield as the offering is so great.” Christmas is often the one time of year where British families gather together, so it’s understandable that they want to decorate their homes to make them festive, warm and welcoming. However, the show is also very multicultural so those celebrating Eid, Hannukkah or Thanksgiving (to name just a few!) are equally well catered for. The 2025 event, which takes place from 12th to 15th January offers a hugely diverse range of products from Christmas trees, baubles, ornaments and decorations, to the latest technology in Christmas lights and candles. You’ll find nine halls of the Harrogate Convention Centre packed with absolutely everything you can imagine to make the best ever celebration. Ornaments and gifts, floral displays, even food items, toys and pet gifts – if you need a product for a happy event, you’re pretty much guaranteed to find it here. New for 2025, Kaemingk is moving into Hall G and will fill 400sqm with its distinctive collection of seasonal decorations for the home and garden. Also joining it will be Swift Imports, CB Imports and Calipso Roast. Importantly, because this is a trade only show, exhibitors are keen to help their customers create the ideal presentation to consumers in their stores, offering merchandising ideas, cleverly thought out and presented collections and even large in-store displays. Harrogate Christmas & Gift offers free entry for all trade visitors and buyers. Where: The Harrogate Convention Centre, Kings Road, Harrogate, Yorkshire When: 12th –15th January 2025 Website: www.harrogatefair.com Email: simon@harrogatefair.com 29 HARROGATE CHRISTMAS & GIFT
30 With love from Nepal Lynne Mold, owner of Koseli Handmade talks to Craft Focus about her ethical, fair trade company
31 COMPANY PROFILE Tell us a little bit about the company. Where are you based? When did the company start? Koseli Handmade is based in Market Harborough, a delightful small town in Leicestershire. The company started 18 years ago as a market stall, selling fair trade goods at outdoor markets, village fetes and Christmas fairs. Who founded the company and why? I’m a happy and friendly woman in my 70s, a retired languages teacher, mother of four and granny to five cheeky granddaughters. I founded the company because I believe very passionately in trading fairly, both here and abroad. I love my yearly visits to Nepal to discuss orders with my suppliers and find new items to stock. The people I work with are hardworking and talented artisans. My customers here in the UK are small independent businesses owned by similarly hard-working talented people. I have made so many new, good, friends both at home and in Nepal. I loved teaching, but now I’m in a position to do something else I love. How has the company evolved? At first, I bought my stock from wholesalers in the UK but, after a trip to Nepal and the opportunity to take over the business of one of the importers I had previously used, I decided to start importing myself. Despite making a few mistakes along the way, Koseli slowly grew to be the successful business it is today, selling mainly to wholesale customers. What do you specialise in? I specialise in selling goods which have been carefully made by hand in Nepal. They’re always made from natural materials such as wool, cotton and hemp. The artisans are treated fairly and work under good conditions. Talk us through the current products you’re particularly excited about. Do you have a favourite? I’m very excited about my sewing kits. I wanted to give work to the artisans who are just beginning to learn the skills required; they cut out the felt shapes for the various items in the kits, then I write the instructions and put the kits together. At the moment there are three kits, but soon there will be more. My other new venture is sets of finger puppets. These come in a cotton bag made in Nepal and represent a theme such as farmyard animals, or animals of the countryside. There will soon be sets of five numbered finger puppets to use in counting games. Hobby & crafts have boomed over the last two years! Have you noticed any new trends? I’ve noticed that people of all ages and from all walks of life enjoy making things with their hands. I was taught to sew, knit and embroider by my mother when I was eight or nine. I enjoyed making clothes for myself throughout my teens and 20s, and for my children and granddaughters when they were young. I love the idea that current and future generations want to do similar things, particularly using ecofriendly materials. How would you advise a retailer who is interested in stocking your products? I would suggest they register on the website as a wholesale customer and then choose a few items they feel would interest their particular customers. I don’t have a minimum order or quantity, so it’s easy to see how things go. What sets you apart from your competitors? As I run the business almost entirely by myself, communication is very easy. I can deal with problems and questions quickly and in a friendly manner. My goods are sold individually and not in packs which almost always seem to contain one colour or style which is less popular. Do you visit any trade shows? Do you plan to visit any soon? I always attend the Spring and Autumn Fairs at the NEC, and I will be exhibiting at Home and Gift in Harrogate in July 2025. Earlier this year, I was at Giving & Living in Exeter and I intend to exhibit there again in 2026. What are you looking forward to most over the next year? I’m looking forward to sourcing more new and original designs of felt items, so that the business continues to grow and helps keep more people in work both here and in Nepal. What new products can we expect from you in the future? I want to stock more items for craftspeople to use in their own designs and develop the craft kits. KOSELI HANDMADE +44 (0)7812 161 168 www.koselihandmade.co.uk
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=