www.craftfocus.com

MAGAZINEIssu

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Offi cial media partner for Craft, Hobby + Stitch International and proud sponsor of the New Product Showcase

Make your mark Innovative products for

scrapbookers and stampers

Counting on cross-stitch

Creative ideas for contemporary stitching

All the news from:CHA Winter ShowCraft, Hobby + StitchCreativeworld

Man-madeFresh ideas for crafty men this Father’s Day

Make the most of summer150+ new and exciting products

craftfocus 3

April/May 2014 Issue 42

Managing EditorGeorgina Cassels+44 (0)1376 535 611

Deputy Managing EditorLauren Dowey

Chief Sub Editor Louise Prance

EditorJulie Bonnar+44 (0)1376 514 000editor@craftfocus.com

Sales & Marketing ManagerRobert Clark+44 (0)1376 535 606robc@craftfocus.com

Account ManagerTracy Voice+44 (0)1376 535 618tracyv@craftfocus.com

Production ManagerScott Brothwell

Deputy Production ManagerSarah Barnes

Senior Graphic DesignerVicky O’Connor

Graphic DesignersRebecca Clarke, Sarah Young+44 (0)1376 535 616artwork@kdmediapublishing.com

Production AssistantAimee Smith

Web Development ManagerStuart Weatherley

SubscriptionsKay Tilbury, Tammy Watt+44 (0)1376 514 000

KD Media Publishing LimitedPantile House, Newlands DriveWitham, Essex, CM8 2AP, UKwww.craftfocus.com

Front cover image: Thanks to Knorr Prandell

ISSN 1758-0900

Craft Focus is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing Limited. 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 refl ect those of the publisher. Craft Focus is published six times a year. Subscription rates for overseas readers are £75 per annum (incl. p+p), Cheques should be made out to KD Media Publishing Limited and sent to Craft Focus, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex, CM8 2AP, United Kingdom.

Craft Focus magazine is proud to be associated with and supporters of:

contents

showsshow news 27Keep up-to-date with what’s happening in your industry

Craft, Hobby & Stitch International 31 All the latest gossip from the show

a world of creativity 41Julie Bonnar reports back on this year’s brilliant Creativeworld show

CHA Winter 47News and reviews from this mega winter show

regularseditor’s letter 5An overview of what to expect in this issue

industry news 7What’s happening within the craft sector

brand spanking new 19A look at the latest product launches

your questions answered 49We’ve teamed up with industry experts CHA-UK to give you answers on importing

competition 56 Win a selection of luxury card supplies from Hunkydory Crafts worth £749 RRP

bookstand 62 The newest craft-related book releases

project – as easy as A, B, C 69 Alistair Macdonald shows how to make a simple alphabet bunting from his latest book

next issue 79What to look forward to in the June/July issue

featuresman-mad 51Great crafting ideas for Father’s day

let’s organise 57Help keep the craft materials tidy with innovative storage solutions

scrapbooking and stamping 64New and original ideas for happy scrappers and stampers

summertime crafting 73Learn something new and make the most of the longer daylight hours

counting on cross-stitch 83Creative ideas for contemporary cross-stitch

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business advicea picture can speak a thousand words 54Metakinetic share how to boost conversation rates online by improving how your product’s are displayed

designed to turn a profit 80We take you through the process of pricing your own hand-made goods

changes to employment law 88Why SMEs need to know their responsibilities as an employer to avoid fines and legal action

focus onaround the houses 60We talk to Michael Powell about his love of architectural art, water painting and cross-stitch

a time of discerning crafters 70Julie Bonnar catches up with Adam Newhouse from Hunkydory Crafts to see how the papercraft market has changed

up & coming 89Introducing Need Craft and its lampshade making phenomenon

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forward thinkingIt’s been so nice to see the sun shining, the milder weather has a way of making people look forwardand plan for the rest of the year. However, I’m very mindful of what some retailers have had to endureduring the recent storms, persistent rains, andfloods. According to the British Retail Consortium bad weather is the second biggest influence on acustomer’s spending pattern. Despite this, further studies have shown that high street shoppers will also in fact take cover during showery weather,

so it pays to have an inviting window display to encourage passers by to choose your shop. Crafters will see a rainy day as a crafting opportunity too so it’s not all doom and gloom.

Indeed, this issue has been so much fun to put together for you. It’sfull of some wonderful fresh and innovative products that we were lucky enough to see and try over the last couple of months at the big trade shows. The crafting industry is certainly weathering the recession well (excuse the pun), and there’s a real positive feel and excitement, with many more manufacturers, distributors and wholesalers exhibiting at the shows than ever. We review shows past, and give you news on the forthcomingevents that aren’t to be missed.

There are lots of things to look forward to in this issue – we’ve gotsome great crafting ideas for stocking up for Father’s Day plus innovativestorage solutions to help crafters stay organised. In advance of the lovely summer that we’re expecting (one can hope), we take a look at productideas that are trending. We’ve also got exclusive features for product offerings for scrappers, stampers and cross-stitchers.

Those who make their own crafts will be interested in our featureon page 88 where I talk you through the process of pricing your ownhand-made goods. A picture can speak a thousand words or so they say, so we’re lucky to have Metakinetic share how to boost conversation rates netic share how to boost conversation rates online with great images on page 54.

Enjoy the issue!

Julie BonnarEditor

Julie

IMPORTERS OF: BlingBroochesWedding & Craft FlowersButterflies & BirdsFeathersMillinery Flowers Christmas WreathsGarlands & Berrys Wedding Cake Decorations

and much much more.

Visit us on: Twitter: @craftfocusPinterest: www.pinterest.com/craftfocusFacebook: www.facebook.com/CraftFocus

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nking

01565 872214 sales@heebee-trade.co.ukw:www.heebee-trade.co.uk

95 Town Lane, Mobberley, Knutsford, Cheshire WA16 7HH

HeeBee TradeNeedlecraft Specialists

HeeBee Trade is a leading UK wholesale

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accessories including canvas, fabric and

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KREINIK RAINBOW GALLERY

APPLETONS We supply half boxes of most threads and have a minimum order value of just £50, therefore we are ideal for small businesses

and designers

craftfocus 7

COATS LAUNCHES NEW CRAFTS WEB PORTAL MAKE IT COATSCoats has launched a new web portal for crafters called Make it Coats. This has been designed to provide crafters with a great digital experience that will inspire, inform and teach textile crafters. The initial focus is predominantly on sewing and quilting, crochet and embroidery, and will provide links with its existing hand-knitting brand’s sites such as Red Heart, Rowan and Schachenmayr.

The portal includes over 250 free crafting projects, 90 films and more than 4,000 product pages, as well as inspirational mood boards from collections, articles and designers. Crafters can learn a new technique through the virtual tutorials, discover how to care and repair or get a question answered in the frequently asked questions section.

The responsive design means that the content fully adapts itself to be viewed equally well on a desktop computer, tablet or smart phone. The call to action Make It encourages consumers to choose Coats as a

trusted craft partner, and with a focus on the end user, the site allows crafters to add individual comments and ratings to featured patterns, products and projects, and share through blogs and events related to the world of crafting. The product explorer provides a guide through a comprehensive catalogue of Coats Crafts products.

“Our makeitcoats.com web portal builds on the recent launch of the new Coats Crafts branding. The portal provides inspiration, guidance and support to

crafters and confirms Coats’ reputation as the number one global player in the textiles crafts market,” comments Frazer Smith, Chief Commercial Officer, Coats plc.

The site has dedicated areas for both the UK and the US markets, where the content is tailored towards the most popular types of crafting in each market. The UK site has additional content on crochet and embroidery while the US site has a greater focus on sewing and quilting, but users can toggle between the content of two sites via a button on the navigation bar.

Coats Crafts W: www.makeitcoats.com

GMC ADDS TO ITS EXTENSIVE BOOK RANGEGMC is delighted to announce the addition of titles by Aurum, Batsford and the recently renamed Pavilion Craft (formerly Collins & Brown) to an extensive range of books already available for craft retailers. A total of 21 different art and craft publishers are now available from GMC, with subjects, skill levels and brands to suit every budget.

Aurum imprints Creative Publishing International and Walter Foster offer a range of step-by-step how-to books, for both children and adults, covering subjects such as home decorating, jewellery making and more crafting subjects.

Apple Press, Frances Lincoln, Jacqui Small and Quarry Books produce high-end, beautifully illustrated lifestyle books, including the first title from popular interior design blogger Will Taylor.

Under the banner LoveCrafts, Pavilion Craft publishes innovative

and fun craft books, including the hugely popular Best in Show series. Alongside established craft authors such as Jane Brocket are books from up-and-coming names including Sophie Simpson (What Delilah Did).

Batsford is a leading publisher in textiles, fashion, design and practical art. It specialises in producing high-quality, beautifully illustrated books for the professional and enthusiast that are presented to appeal to all readers, whatever their level of knowledge.

Aurum, Batsford and Pavilion Craft complement a range that includes popular US publishers Sixth & Spring, Leisure Arts and Lark, with books from well-known authors, series and brands such as Nicky Epstein, Diane Fitzgerald, Cozy, Potter Craft’s BurdaStyle books and Threads titles from Taunton, not to mention books on popular new trend Zentangle from Design Originals.

GMC DistributionT: +44 (0)1273 488 005 E: HelenC@thegmcgroup.comW: www.thegmcgroup.com

We round up news from the crafting industry

industry news

news ro

und up

8 craftfocus

GALT TOYS AND TOY FAIR AUCTION An iconic portrait of Marilyn Monroe has raised £2,050 for the Toy Trust charity after being unveiled at Toy Fair by celebrity art expert and star of BBC’S Bargain Hunt, Timothy Wonnacott in January. This striking 5ft x 5ft mosaic masterpiece of Marilyn has been created by Ed Chapman, who is one of the UK’s leading contemporary artists. The piece was created using purely materials from the craft range from Galt Art including fun buttons, cotton reels and mosaic masterpieces kits, as well as a variety of paints, crayons, pens and craft kits.

Over 30 bids were made for the piece, with plans to donate the full amount raised to the Toy Trust charity. John McDonnell, Managing Director at Galt Toys, said before the auction closed, “We’d like to thank everyone who placed a bid on this iconic masterpiece and are over the moon that we’ve been able to raise such a substantial amount for the Toy Trust charity, which helps disadvantaged and disabled children in the UK and abroad. The bidding hasn’t stopped since the auction began and it has been hugely exciting to watch the bids go up and up over the last few days. The artwork was originally commissioned to help inspire children that the sky’s the limit when it comes to creating stunning pieces of art, but the funds raised through its sale will now be used to directly help disadvantaged children.”

The auction was won on Monday 27th January by a mystery bidder, who has since been revealed as Emma Messenger from Messenger Enterprise Ltd, owner of several Toymaster stores. Emma says: “The Marilyn portrait is a fantastic piece of art, which I just fell in love with the moment I set eyes on it at Toy Fair. It’s only when you look at the picture up close that you see the amount of detail and the many Galt materials that have been used. We’re so excited to have won the auction and are very pleased to be giving to the Toy Trust. We now look forward to displaying the artwork around all our stores, to inspire as many people as possible!”

BRITAIN’S YOUNGEST BUSINESSMAN LAUNCHES SWEET GIFT RANGE AT SPRING FAIR Dubbed Britain’s youngest businessman by the media, 10-year old Henry Patterson, founder of children’s gift company Not Before Tea, launched his new product range at this year’s Spring Fair. Henry created Not Before Tea just 10 months ago, and since then his story has made headlines the world over in The Times to The New York EC. In November last year, he won ‘One to Watch’ at The Great British Entrepreneur Awards.

Not Before Tea started as a fictional sweet shop run by Pip the mouse and Sherb the owl. Henry was fascinated by the sweets and games that his parents and grandparents enjoyed when they were young and used this as the basis for his first collection, deciding to bring the story to life.

He showcased his edible Mud & Worms, jars of Ants in Grass and Ladybirds on Leaves and Mr Fox’s Homemade Fudge at the Spring Fair, as well as, Doodlepods in action. These are drawstring bags containing fabric crayons and blank bags and aprons for children to decorate. Spring Fair was the first time that Not Before Tea was made available to stockists. Henry is also celebrating the launch with the publication of his first book The Adventures of Sherb and Pip.

Sherbert Pip T: +44 (0)7841 399 670 E: sales@sherbertpip.co.uk W: www.sherbetpip.co.uk

industry news

MANUFACTURING PARTNER WANTEDThe House of Scarlet is a design house producing creative wallpapers. The company is now looking for a manufacturer to print its colourful designs onto wrapping paper, cards and notebook ranges. If you can help, please contact Natasha Scarlet Danson, Designer and Founder below.

The House Of Scarlet T: +44 (0)7917 202 144E: info@thehouseofscarlet.comW: www.thehouseofscarlet.com

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SARAH HURLEY LAUNCHES ONLINE TRADE SHOP

Sarah Hurley’s range of craft products, sewing kits, cards and gifts is now available wholesale to retail outlets, companies and web shops worldwide.

Sarah Hurley’s brochure is available to download for a sneak peek at her product range, and retailers can sign up for a trade account and access to the trade online shop. Once approved retailers will be able to place orders online 24 hours a day. If retailers are looking for bespoke branding or personalised items, retailers can contact Sarah Hurley for a quote. The craft kits, which were introduced throughout 2013, continue to be a huge hit, with the felt Sausage Dog kit being last year’s Christmas best-seller.

Sarah Hurley Designs T: +44 (0)7827 885 818 E: info@sarahhurley.comW: www.sarahhurleytrade.com

industry news

ETC SUPPLIES EXPAND INTO NEW PREMISES“The last two years have seen exceptional growth in trading for ETC Supplies, and 2013 was another record-breaking year,” comments M.D. Jas. S. Purba. ETC Supplies has now purchased a new 20,000 sq. ft. distribution facility that will allow the company to continue to grow at this remarkable rate. The new premises permit an increase in stock holding and larger bays for unloading goods that can accommodate two 40 feet containers at a time. There is also dedicated customer car parking, a new customer showroom, dedicated sample room and larger sales office.

Most people know this company best for its one-of-kind range of embroidery backings. In fact, it’s probably Europe’s largest distributor with over 65 types of backing to choose from. Recently its own brand economy embroidery thread (sold at £2.99 a cone) has made great gains into market share.

The company has many individual products that have been especially developed as a result of customers’ needs. ETC Supplies only sell direct to the trade user, which allows them to keep prices low and directly in contact with its customer.

“Many people in the trade know me personally,” said Jas S Purba. “No customer is too small or too big for me to visit on a one to one basis. It’s often during these visits that a chat with the customer results in identifying a need and a new product is developed and added to our range. One of our USP’s is that we can speak to our customers direct about any technical issues they have too.” This enables ETC Supplies to increase the number of products sold to each customer and thus making life easier for the customer as they only need to deal with one supplier. This new distribution facility will allow us to grow our European business further. The next focus for us will be in growing our business in Germany and Spain.

ETC SuppliesTel: +44 (0)141 550 1188 E: sales@etcsupplies.co.uk W: www.etcsupplies.co.uk

New address for ETC Supplies is:Mile End House, 101 Brook Street, Bridgeton, Glasgow, G40 3AP.

TWO NEW BRANDS FOR JONESJones Crafts has been very busy adding two new brands. Little B and Webster’s Pages will now be distributed from the company’s Nottingham Warehouses. All the current catalogues are now available from its website for all the brands they work with. Jones Crafts T: +44(0)115 973 8708 E: sales@jonesnottm.co.ukW: www.jonesnottm.co.uk

r/o 31 Commercial RoadEdmonton, London N18 1TP

Tel: 0208 884 0999Fax: 0208 884 4666

Email: mcourtsltd@btconnect.comWebsite: www.mcourts.co.uk

New Fashion Jewellery Range now available

Wholesale Haberdashery SuppliersTo shops, stalls, schools, colleges, carnival bands, dress & curtain makers, theatres,

designers etc.

See our huge range includingBeads, Trimmings, Lace, Buttons, Ribbon,Sequins, Diamantes, Motifs, Zips, Cords, Thread, Masks, Feathers, Flowers, Bridal, Lingerie Accessories, Craft, Haberdashery,

and much, much more.

12 craftfocus

DURABLE ANDROID TABLET FOR RETAILERSMiTAC is just about to release the new MioWORK L130 series rugged android tablet for retailers with Cervello PAYG EPOS functionality. The new tablet is semi-rugged and designed specifically for use in the retail environment by leading technology manufacturer MiTAC. It will provide a one-of-a-kind middle ground for retailers who need more durable solutions than consumer tablets but don’t wish to invest in military-standard devices.

Available from May, it’s been developed to address the increasing need for a mid-priced durable device for retailers who currently struggle with the dilemma of choosing either a device that is too fragile for daily use, or that stretches their budget much further than they can reasonably affordable. This tablet comes certified for enterprise use and holds an array of attractive features including secure wireless access, IP67 ingression resistance, Mil-standard drop resistance, and flexible power options – none of which are currently available on standard consumer devices. It also offers functional accessories including a multi-docking station, and has been set up to easily install and run Pay As You Go EPOS software Cervello, giving retailers a simple, off the shelf software and hardware solution at an affordable price point.

Despite being a new entrant to the retail sector, these tablets are already well established in the medical market, where a similar need for greater durability and bespoke functionality exist. They come with a standard one-year warranty included plus there is an optional extended three-year warranty available. While the price of a MioWORK tablet is approximately 30 per cent higher than comparable consumer solutions at £750 +VAT, the range is also approximately 50 per cent lower priced than military-standard solutions too, so retailers can save a substantial amount by opting for this semi-rugged option.

Using Cervello on the tablet will also make it faster, reliable and more accurate. Cervello is already performing well in the retail sector as a simple, effective, off the shelf epos solution that eliminates the need for capital expenditure or ongoing license fees. Its unique pay as you go or monthly fixed payment model makes it the perfect entry-level epos solution for retailers of all sizes, but particularly suited to smaller retailers.

“This new tablet combined with Cervello software offers a much needed solution for retailers

who need reliable software and durable hardwareat an affordable price point,”

says Fiona Cowlam, Cervelo’s Marketing Manager.

For more information contact Julian Stone, Business Development Director: Tel: + 44 (0)7720 090222 E: julian.stone@mio.com MioWork W: miowork.mio.com Cervello W: www.cervello-pos.com

industry news

NEW PACKAGING FOR GLUE DOTS Glue Dots International, well known in the US craft industry for its best-selling instant bonding adhesive products, has just launched an exciting new-look consumer range of products and displays aimed at the UK craft sector.

Fast, safe and easy to use, Glue Dots® double-sided adhesive dots bond instantly to virtually any surface and they’re mess free, non-toxic with no drying time. Launched in permanent, poster and removable formulas, they’re ideal for a wide variety of everyday craft projects.

The bright new shopper-friendly packaging and colourful graphics clearly show the products’ features and benefits, so that customers can easily find the right Glue Dots® for their needs. The new packaging takes consumers interest beyond traditional tape or glue defining Glue Dots® as The New Way to Glue.

Launched in individual hang packs or dispensers, there’s a choice of stylish looking and highly space efficient displays options.

Glue Dots®

T: +44 (0)7584 236 126 E: dangus@gluedots.com (Dave Angus, European key Account Manager) W: www.gluedots.com

GROVES APPOINTED UK DISTRIBUTOR FOR TILDAFollowing the recent administration of the W Williams company, Groves is delighted to announce that it’s been appointed as UK distributors of the Tilda brand. “This superb collection of seasonal, coordinated products, that vary from fabrics, trims and storage through to paper items and gift accessories. Tilda products, both complement and enhance the existing Groves product ranges,” commented Andrew Groves, Managing Director. A new catalogue illustrating the complete Tilda range is available to retailers and the complete range of Tilda will be in stock from mid-March onwards. Groves T: +44 (0)1844 258 080 E: sales@groves-banks.com W: www.groves-banks.com

For further information about Kunin Craft Felt please contact

Fashion Futures Ltd, Units 1 and 2 Mace Industrial Estate, Ashford, Kent TN24 8EP. fashion.futures@btconnect.comTel +44 (0) 1233 625227Fax +44 (0) 1233 612352

The Kunin Group

We have the felt colours and designs to suit all your craft

projects. Available in cut rectangles and bolts

14 craftfocus

IMPRESS MACHINE POISED TO REVOLUTIONISE CRAFTS AND HOBBIES SECTORCraft Dragon, a Stoke-on-Trent company, has developed a revolutionary machine for the crafts and hobbies market, and secured investment from venture capital specialist Midven with a number of private investors. Craft Dragon is the inventor and manufacturer of the ImPress™ machine. The company will use the funds to help build on its success, and expand sales in the UK, USA and Germany.

The device was the brainchild of avid hobby crafter Jayne Nash, whose family has gone on to develop the patented ImPress machine. Struck by the fact that existing machines are large and expensive for the hobby crafter, Jayne came up with the concept for a more versatile machine. Jayne collaborated with her husband, Anthony – an engineer – and her idea was adapted so it could perform many different tasks including hot foiling, stamping and die cutting.

Jason Nash, Craft Dragon’s Managing Director, said: “The machine was quickly tailored specifically for the needs of the serious hobby crafter – it is multi-functional, robust and reliable, compact and affordable. We always knew we had a good product and our early sales success proved there is a market. This investment from Midven and private investors will give us the opportunity to grow the company, create jobs and continue to serve our enthusiastic customers.”

Midven is a leading venture capital fund manager that provides investment for small, high-growth businesses across a range of sectors in the West Midlands, and through its Early Advantage fund, the company has invested £100,000 in Craft Dragon; this is in addition to the investment from a number of supportive private investors.

Gio Finocchio, Midven’s Investment Manager said the size of the potential market was significant, with around £1billion spent on crafting and hobbies in the US every year, and around half of households taking part in some form of craft or hobby.

Craft Dragon T: +44 (0)1782 341 827 E: enquiries@craftdragon.comW: www.craftdragon.co.ukMidven W: www.midven.co.uk

industry news

FRESH FOCUS FOR EXACLAIR ExaClair has just released its Decopatch catalogue with the new papers and maché products for 2014 showcasing modern, fashion-forward and home-décor inspired themes. The front cover of the new catalogue is a stylish, trendy woman set against a striking blue background that epitomises Decopatch’s change of direction. With a fresh new look, the catalogue is set to attract and inspire crafters looking for new, funky and fashionable ways of decorating furniture, home accessories and ornaments.

There’s a strong focus on creating home décor such as storage pots and bowls with the fresh chic, funky and stylish papers. The new origami-style papers include rabbit and bird designs that particularly standout with clean lines and straight edges. Other new papers to choose from include the bright, floral and contemporary Tropical range, and the Casablanca range of opulent, oriental designs plus the Robot papers that are great for kids. For a copy of the new catalogue, email: enquiries@exaclair.co.uk.

“We’re delighted with our new catalogue. A great deal of research has gone into Decopatch’s new

direction, and the new designs will provide crafters with inspiration and enthusiasm.”

Nick Parry, Head of Arts and Crafts at ExaClair Exaclair T: +44 (0)1553 696 600E: enquiries@exaclair.co.ukW: www.exaclair.co.uk

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HIDDEN CENTRE CAKES MAKE BIG REVEAL Cakes with a hidden centre are apparently at the top of the 2014 baking list according to new research from Renshaw, one of the UK’s leading manufacturer of baking ingredients. Renshaw’s Big Trends survey revealed hidden centre cakes are fashionable, and closely followed closely by an up and coming trend-to-watch the painted cakes, and a continuation of last year’s rainbow cake love affair.

Cake and cupcake painting was voted the second most popular trend to try, with more than a third of people surveyed eager to add the craft to their decorating repertoire. More than 2,500 people completed the online survey. Sophisticated flavours and toppings were seen as increasingly important, with sugar paste and fondant icing set to rise in popularity as a decoration trend. Over a third of people plan to decorate cakes with sugar paste this year, with coatings like Colour Melts and Royal Icing also gaining favour as new toppings to test out.

Colour and flavour remain key baking and decorating themes, with the striking hue and subtle cocoa taste of American red velvet returning as the cake to watch too. Classic flavours chocolate and lemon remain popular, with exotic fruits and berries also set to dominate the year’s baking and sugarcrafting palate. Celebrity chef and UK cake royalty, Mich Turner MBE, recently predicted 2014 would be the year of style as much as substance: “People who’ve spent the last few years mastering the art of the cute cupcake will be looking for advanced baking and decorating projects to test their skills with bigger celebration cakes, while beginners will do best to start with the basics, like learning to cover a cake properly.”

Renshaw T: +44 (0)151 706 8200E: info@renshawbaking.comW: www.renshawbaking.com

industry news

NEW EASY-TO-NAVIGATE SITE The new online store for PJ Beads is now live and features a great range of jewellery-making products. Easy-to-follow navigation allows customers to browse by product type or by material, including semi-precious beads, Swarovski crystal, freshwater pearls, Shamballa and Pandora style beads, gold, silver and plated jewellery components and findings.

Customers can take advantage of special offers and sales promotions while the new wholesale pricing and quantity-based discounts mean retailers are able to shop at significantly reduced prices. If you are looking for inspiration, the jewellery-making projects section on the website will give you plenty of ideas and, if you want to show off your creations, there’s also a customer gallery.

“PJ Beads was one of the UK’s first online suppliers of beading and jewellery-making components. We offer great value, excellent customer service and now our new online store gives us a great shop

window to showcase our fantastic product range,” commented James Whittaker, founder of the PJ Beads business.

PJ Beads T: +44 (0)1704 575 461 E: info@beads.co.ukW: www.beads.co.uk

THE PROFESSIONAL DESIGNER’S SECRET WEAPONEver heard of Morplan’s PatternMaster®? Designed 35 years ago, the PatternMaster® is still one of the essential pieces of kit for anyone in the business of designing clothing. It features a straight edge, right angles, 45° bias markings, grading markers, seam allowances and a range of curves to help the shaping of arm holes, sleeves, necklines and trouser seams. All in one handy tool.

Stocked in metric and imperial versions, the PatternMaster® is made from strong, clear perspex with long-lasting, etched markings and smooth edges and it’s supplied with easy-to-follow instructions. Morplan has been working with the garment industry for over 170 years creating, and supplying specialist tools and equipment for every part of the fashion design process. Morplans’ ranges include patternmaking tools, tailors busts, scissors and shears, cloth marking and pinning, garment covers steamers, hangers and rails hrough to retail display, point of sale and carrier bags. Morplan T: +44 (0)800 45 11 22 (freefone) to ask for a catalogue E: web.support@morplan.comW: www.morplan.com

craftfocus 19

An exclusive round up of the newest product offerings around

brand spanking new

brand spanking new

Blushing vintage Oyster Blush is Papermania’s latest offering to the Capsule collection and features beautiful subtle pantone colours. Available from Docrafts, this on-trend shabby chic collection has a super selection of fabric elements including vintage laces, which are trending in fashion and home-wares. The 2m jumbo crochet and RicRac trim, 5m adhesive crochet borders, 1m pleated fabric trim, 1m ribbon, large ribbon bows and 1m fabric tape continue to push the boundaries between paper and soft craft. Whether starting a project from scratch or freshening up your home, this collection will give that knockout finish to any home décor project. This new capsule collection also contains lace papers and die-cut notelets, adding plenty of intricate detail for all projects with staple embellishment of big bloomers, pin wheels and polka dot buttons for extra definition and depth. DocraftsT: +44 (0)1202 811 000 E: info@docrafts.comW: www.docrafts.biz

Milestone momentsHunkydory has new all-occasions card kits for both the Milestones and Special Moments collections that card makers love to cater for. These new collections are bursting with tempting topper designs for every special event.

Special Moments will help crafters to create cards for friends and family to celebrate those special events in life. All A4 toppers are beautifully designed and accent-foiled with adorable teddies, flowers for mums, well-wishing parrot , and many other themes for Easter, sympathy, anniversary and Father’s Day. From birth to marriage, and school to retirement, the Milestone collection is full of fresh and original designs covering 10 different milestones in life. The range includes a wonderful range of graduation caps, celebratory champagne flutes to little treasures and items to welcome the pitter-patter of tiny feet. Both of these collections retail for around £19.99. Hunkydory CraftsT: +44 (0)1772 272 572 E: enquiries@hunkydorycrafts.co.ukW: www.hunkydorycrafts.co.uk

Laser-cut buttonsHand-designed and painted, these wooden laser-cut MDF designs come as buttons and brooches, and are available from Hantex. Many are fabric-lined to give a textured effect. Retail price is between £3.20 and £3.90. A free counter-top stand is available when retailers order a fill (90 packs). There’s hundreds of designs to choose from with special-themed designs for Christmas. Other seasonal designs will be added later in the year.

A tough three-someGorilla Glue Europe has just launched three new innovative products into the UK marketplace. The products include the innovative Gorilla Clear Repair Tape, White Gorilla Tape and Gorilla Super Glue Gel. The Gorilla Clear Repair tape retails at £7.99, and has indiviudal properties that make it the first clear tape of its kind in the UK with its weatherproof, airtight and crystal clear designs. It’s a multi-use tape with heavy-duty strength and durability that can stick to smooth, rough and uneven surfaces. While Gorilla Super Glue Gel is an easy to use, thicker and more controlled formula ideal for multiple surfaces and vertical applications. This retails at £6.99 and maintains the tough Gorilla credentials. Its anti-clogging cap enables the product to be used for a variety of jobs time and time again.

With its triple layer strength and outstanding versatility, White Gorilla Tape is the perfect solution for both indoor and outdoor use and can grip a variety of uneven surfaces and remains white and won’t yellow outdoors. Retails at £10.49.

Gorilla GlueT: +44 (0)1257 241 319 W: uk.gorillaglue.com

Hantex Ltd T: +44(0)1754 820 800/ 0844 879 4719 E: sales@hantex.co.uk W: www.hantex.co.uk

20 craftfocus

brand spanking new

New Bernina embroidery software Bernina has released a new version of its popular DesignerPlus and EditorPlus embroidery software.

DesignerPlus version 7 can help sewers unleash their creativity through new three-dimensional features a range of 3D effects like Trapunto to create distinctive surface embellishments. The software is supplied with CorelDraw® Essentials X6 enabling sewers to apply special effects to artwork, add text, shapes, freehand draw elements or trace bitmaps for unique multimedia projects. Turn artwork from various graphic formats into an embroidery design in just one click, and get a realistic view how the embroidery will look on real garments. The EditorPlus Embroidery Software 7 has an on-line screen manual, easy to identify large flat icons, and an easy to switch measurement system, and comes with simple editing and extensive lettering options. All Bernina embroidery software allows sewers to design, import, edit, manage, and freely combine embroidery designs.

BerninaT: +44(0)20 7549 7849 E: info@bernina.co.uk W: www.bernina.com/en-GB

Homely maché and decopatchExaClair has launched a new range of Decopatch papers and maché products, which have been inspired by fashion-led and modern home-décor trends. The new distressed papers are available in warm greens, reds, blues and browns and its tactile, textured design gives items a high quality finish. The Weekend in the Country range uses a soft palette and country-chic designs perfect for decorating furniture and household ornaments. Home décor enthusiasts looking for bright, kitsch, on trend papers will love the Hello London range with its London buses, Union Jack, red telephone boxes, bowler hats and London Eye detailing. The brightly-coloured flowers and sparkly jewels of the Royalties paper designs will add vibrant sparkle to any home. Also new to this range is the maché blank products which includes oval bowls, and sugar, coffee and tea storage pots to ensure Decopatch fans can now personalise and coordinate even their kitchen design. ExaclairT: +44 (0)1553 696 600 E: enquiries@exaclair.co.ukW: www.exaclair.co.uk

Smooth airbrushing The Neo trigger for Iwata airbrushes makes getting started in airbrushing even easier. Its innovative dual-action, traditional finger button or new pistol trigger design offers simple and ergonomic solutions. These pistol trigger airbrushes have a pre-set handle allowing even the beginner to pre-set the spray performance for any line, any background, and any shade, and will perform perfectly every time.Different to any ordinary airbrushing systems, the Neo series is one-of-akind in that the airbrushes are designed to work at low air pressures to give an even minimal overspray, precise control, detailed spraying and fine atomization. Specifically designed to work together, the Neo-Air for Iwata Miniature Air Compressor and the Neo for Iwata Airbrushes make the perfect set both compact and affordable for crafters.

Graphic AirT: +44 (0)1423 522 836 E: info@graphicair.co.ukW: www.graphicair.co.uk

Matchstick men (and dogs)Bothy Threads has just brought out two new Lowry designs called Coming from the Mill and Market Scene, Northern Town. The original pictures are held at ‘The Lowry’ in Salford but these cute designs are an exact reproduction and measure 37cm x 34cm on 14 hpi Parchment Aida. Both retail at £31.99 each.

Bothy ThreadsT: +44 (0) 844 8000 221 E: info@bothythreads.com W: www.bothythreads.com

100% mercerized

Egyptian 3 ply crochet

cotton. Available in:

10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 80

and 100 in white and cream

ecru, weights 30 and 50 as

well available in 6 bleach

solid dyed colours.100% Metallic Thread in 1, 2 and 6 ply, in 12 solid dyed colours.

100% mercerized

Egyptian 3 ply crochet cotton

thread for all use in 40, 50

and 60 weight, for quilting.

100% mercerized Egyptian 2 ply cotton, in 5 g. balls,

weights: 12 and 16, and 10 g. balls in weights: 3, 5, 8, 12

and 16, in solid dyed and bleach fast colours.

100% mercerized Egyptian 6 ply

cotton, in 8 meter skeins in solid

dyed and bleach fast colours.

We can supply you with the best

quality: Lace, Embroidery, Sewing,

Quilting, Crochet, Tatting, Metallic,

Rayon, and Perlé threads (even Perlé

Finca 16 which can go on as sewing

machine) as well as 6 ply Mouliné

embroidery floss.

A WHOLE RANGE OF BEAUTIFUL THREADS

FocusCraft, Unit 5 Henry Close, Battlefi eld Enterprise Park, Shrewsbury SY1 3AB

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Carriage FREE on all orders over £150 excluding VAT.

22 craftfocus

brand spanking new

A stitch in time These bird-print sewing card kits are by the Danish company Rice, and make great gifts for children, card makers and those who want to ease themselves into crafting. The trace embroidery cards come in a pack of six assorted bird prints, and come complete with different coloured threads and two hand-needles. Each card pack measures 15cm (wide) x 21cm (high), and retails at £7.99.

RICE DKT: +45 63 11 35 35 E: europe@rice.dkW: www.rice.dk/en

Silky Linen yarnArtesano is pleased to launch its brand new product Artesano Linen Silk DK. Linen Silk is a standard DK yarn of a blend of sheep’s wool with silk to produce a robust yet soft knit with added texture and further interest. This yarn is hand-painted to produce wonderful colours and patterns for knitting and crocheting. It’s available in a range of 16 colours – autumn leaves, blue yonder, blush, borealis, hydrangea, masquerade, night sky, orchid, paradise, Rhododendron, russet, sea turtle, sea-spray and shamrock – shown here in lichen. Fully supported with an exciting range of patterns, there’s something for every yarn enthusiast including a simple scarf, gorgeous shawl and fabulous jumpers and cardigans.

Artesano YarnsT: +44(0)118 950 3350E: jenny@artesanoyarns.co.ukW: www.artesanoyarns.co.uk

Retail-ready stringsCreative Beadcraft continues to expand its large range of retail-ready strings. These come with loops and labels, which will make a great display feature. The latest additions include Czech 4mm and 6mm pressed glass beads in transparent, opal, metallic and neon colours. There’s also a dazzling range of metallic silver, gold and copper beads and dagger-shaped beads too.

The Czech pearl range now includes strings of drops, Baroque beads and hearts in the same 20 colours as the 4mm, 6mm, 8mm and 12mm pearls. While the Indian 4mm round crystal facetted beads are now available in the same transparent and metallic colours as the very popular strings of crystal puffy rondelles. Creative BeadcraftT: +44(0)1494 786 924 E: beads@creativebeadcraft.co.ukW: www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

Melt-in-the-mouth Hearts of home bakers and cake decorators will melt over the latest line from Renshaw. Colour Melts is a completely new range of versatile cake decorations that caters for the growing demand for ready-to-use toppings and cake coverings, Colour Melts is a fuss-free and versatile ingredient for flooding, dipping and drizzling homemade goods like traybakes, cake pops and other dipped desserts.

The microwaveable pots are available in a total of seven colours – yellow, green, blue, red, pink as well as classic black and white. Colour Melts set to a smooth finish, and this nifty product will appeal to bakers and decorators of all skill levels, with a world of applications to discover. Colour Melts come in 200g tubs and are typically priced at £1.99.

RenshawT: +44 (0)151 706 8200E: info@renshawbaking.comW: www.renshawbaking.com

A unique hand care emulsion that works with your skin to create a protective shield keeping your hands naturally smooth and hydrated - the perfect crafting companion.

Quickly absorbed and leaves no greasy residue

Hypoallergenic, fragrance free and ultra light formula

Won’t wash or rub off and remains effective for up to 4 hours

Skin can still breathe but natural oils and moisture are kept in

Dry cracked skin will soon start to look and feel smooth again

24 craftfocus

brand spanking new

Full-length ladyIsabella is a new full-length Elegance lady from John Clayton, dressed in a beautiful smoky-blue evening gown and bold luxurious jewellery. This design measures 19cm x 40cm and is available as a complete kit on 14ct Aida or 27ct evenweave containing Zweigart fabric, DMC stranded cottons sorted onto numbered cards, needle, clear charts and instructions. Retails at a reasonable £18.75, with full-colour brochure on hand to support the range.

Heritage Crafts LtdT: +44 (0)1889 575 256E enquiries@hcrafts.comW: www.hcrafts.com/trade

Big softieSarah Hurley’s trade website is beginning to take shape with more than 150 products available and more on the way. This little deer and sausage dog are two of the popular softie felt toy kits on offer. These sweetly branded kits contain everything a crafter needs to make these cute characters including hand-cut felt squares, embroidery thread, pre sorted onto a thread sorter card, needle and needle threader, a small bag of stuffing, a woven label, printed pattern sheet and basic instructions. They're perfect for beginners and children as an introduction to the world of sewing. All materials in the kit are sourced in Britain, and packaged in a box made from recycled materials. The pattern has been adapted from one of Sarah’s hand-drawn illustrations. All the sewing kits are CE marked and retail at £7.50.

Sarah Hurley DesignsT: +44 (0)7827 885 818 E: info@sarahhurley.comW: www.sarahhurleytrade.com

Homegrown and home-sewn DMC has introduced a new range of fun and modern floral designs capitalising on a popular trend and seasonal time of year. The range of 16 different designs come in a modern, bright and colourful planter PoS unit, which will be eye-catching when placed at a till point or in a fixture. The kits re packaged in a seed packet, and contain the award winning DMC stranded cotton, 14ct white Aida fabric, needle and instructions and measure just 3 inch x 3 inch when stitched, so are the designs offer a perfect introduction to cross-stitching.

DMC Creative WorldT: +44(0)116 275 4000 E: sales@dmccreative.co.ukW: www.dmccreative.co.uk

Family fun La Pashe is taking crafters back to the beginning with its iconic and hilarious Flippin’ Men and Flippin’ Women range of front and back decoupage designs under the brand Flippin’ Families.

This range contains A4 sheets of decoupage designs on 160gsm silk paper, with co-ordinating toppers and greetings to make amusing family decoupage projects. Simply cut out the pieces, layer with foam pads to create professional-looking and fun-filled cards for all the family and friends. These designs are also available on CD-ROM with more than 34 new designs.New designs feature children, teenagers, parents, grandparents, aunties and uncles in a myriad of family situations that we all can connect with.

La PasheT: +44(0191) 417 6494 E: trade@lapashe.comW: www.lapashe.com

craftfocus 27

show, new

s and events

shows, news and eventsWe update you on what’s happening in the next couple of months with a round up of show news

Stationery Show1st - 2nd April, 2014Venue: Business Design Centre, LondonT: +44 (0)20 8462 0721 E: stationeryshow@firstevents.com W: www.stationeryshow.co.uk

The London Stationery Show is the UK’s only trade exhibition dedicated to stationery and writing instruments, and is part of the National Stationery Week. The show offers everything from the ordinary to extraordinary, with many of the products having craft-connections from colouring pens to stationer’s must-have items.

British Craft Trade Fair6th - 8th April, 2014Venue: Great Yorkshire Showground, Harrogate T: +44 (0)1444 246 466 E: info@bctf.co.uk W: www.bctf.co.uk

The British Craft Trade Fair (BCFT) is a three-day event that takes place at the scenic Great Yorkshire showground in Harrogate. This trade fair has been running for more than 35 years under the supervision of PSM Ltd, and is strictly trade-only showcasing work exclusively from both British and Irish makers – you won’t find any mass-produced products here. Retail buyers can now log in to the website (www.bctonline.co.uk) and view the latest product catalogue from all the exhibitors enabling them to order and view products throughout the season and not just at the show.

Organisers of the BCTF have reported another sell out exhibition. With over 500 exhibitors and more than 4,500 visitors expected, it’s a great one-stop shop for independent jewellers, and buyers can be assured that at BCTF they will find one-of-a-kind products to stock their shelves. BCTF is promoted as a home and gift fair with a twist – everything is made in the UK. Made in Britain sells – this message has been fuelled by consumer and media support over the last few years and the launch of the Made in Britain government initiative is helping to support its popularity.

Margeret Bunn, principle fair organiser, said: “BCTF is a joy to organise, and once we’ve all 500 exhibitors in place, cleared the aisles ready to open the doors to buyers, I always feel very proud of our exhibitors and what we’ve achieved by pulling them altogether.

“With so much talent, it takes your breath away! British made and British crafts are in demand, consumers recognise this more now and this has helped the fair hold its position and expand even during the past years of recession. I believe the future is bright for British crafts.”

38th JAPAN HOBBY SHOW 2014Venue: Tokyo Big Sight, East Hall 1, 2, 324th - 26th April, 2014T: +81 3 3512 5670 E: hobby@smj.co.jpW: www.hobby.or.jp/hobbyshow/2014/enOrganiser: Hobby Association of Japan

Supported by Craft & Hobby Association (CHA), this show will see approximately 120,000 visitors covering a variety of crafts from sewing, embroidery, lace, quilting, knitting, beads and jewellery, scrapbooking, card-making and soap-making, among many others.

POST SHOW NEWSSpring Fair is Britain’s barometer of retail recoverySpring Fair 2014 opened its doors on 2nd February, 2014 at The NEC, Birmingham, and welcomed more than 66,500 retail buyers, including 5,250 from overseas, which was a two per cent increase on last year’s show, and showcased 300,000 new product launches from 3,000 exhibitors across 13 different market sectors.

As one of the largest retail trade events in the country, Spring Fair serves as a crucial barometer for the economic health of the sector. Organisers of the show revealed a clear upswing in the home and gift trade, and billions of pounds worth of transactions will be carried out as a direct result of participation in the show. A number of factors have driven this rise and a myriad of new products being developed along with a sharpened concentration on consumer-driven trends and a clearer knowledge of retailers changing buying patterns. Strong product categories this year at the show included design-led contemporary gifts and British-made products. Visitors were also impressed by the quality and variety of product on display, and shared their show experiences on social media networks.

A new development for i2i Events Group that positively impacted Spring Fair is a strengthened

28 craftfocus

Consumer CalendarWant to get your products to more customers? We list the best UK-based consumer craft shows in the forthcoming months:

The Great British Craft FestivalThis Hunkydory craft festival is back for a third year, and plans to be bigger and better than the previous years. Returning to Stoneleigh Park in August, it’s also added a brand new show at Bolton Arena in May (see dates and venue listing). The exhibition halls will be fit to burst with fabulous exhibitors including Debbi Moore Designs, Crafty Devils, Pinflair, The Southampton Bead Shop and, of course, Hunkydory Crafts. There will also be an entire hall dedicated to inspirational make and takes across both festivals that will include over 1,300 free sessions. Due to popular demand, the company has added even more workshops to its GBCF schedule, and you can now buy half-day workshop tickets for both the Bolton and Stoneleigh Park shows. Each festival will also have its very own free Hunkydory paper craft kit for every attendee worth £4.99, courtesy of Club Hunkydory. The Great British Craft FestivalT: +44 (0)1772 272 577 E: greatbritishcraft@hunkydorycrafts.co.ukW: www.greatbritishcraft.co.uk

shows, news and events

The Cake & Bake Show 4th-5th April, Manchester CentralThis show will be another exciting weekend dedicated to the world of cakes, breads, pies, sugar craft and the art of baking, and after the success of last year’s sell-out show, the country’s biggest experiential baking event is returning to Manchester Central in April. Celebrities at the show will include Rosemary Shrager, Great British Bake Off winner John Whaite, Eric Lanlard, Mich Turner and Peter Sidwell, as well as this year’s winner and her fellow contestants; Frances Quinn, Kimberley Wilson, Glenn Cosby and Christine Wallace.

A ‘Welcome to the Jungle’ cake installation is expected to be the

largest cake installation the UK has ever seen featuring the sights and sounds of the jungle. Everything will be edible, from the leaves and the grass to over 120 hand-crafted flowers and animals including a life-size tiger. It’ll take a team of 20 people and more than 2000 hours to create ahead of the show. Experiential stands include companies such as Billington’s and live cake decorating in action.

The Cake & Bake Show T: +44 (0)844 854 1364 E: info@thecakeandbakeshow.co.ukW: www.thecakeandbakeshow.co.uk

Dates and venues for 2014Great British Craft Festival (www.greatbritishcraft.co.uk) 31st May-1st June: Bolton Arena, Greater Manchester9th - 10th August: Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire ICHF shows (www.ichfevents.co.uk):3rd-5th April: Creative Stitches & Hobbycrafts, ExCel, London10th - 12th April: Cake International, ExCel, London3rd - 5th May: Weald of Kent Craft & Design Show, Penshurst Place, Tonbridge

The Cake & Bake Show (www.thecakeandbakeshow.co.uk) 4th - 6th April, Manchester Central

Trident Exhibitions Creative Crafts shows (www.sccshows.co.uk) 10th - 12th April: The King’s Hall, Belfast24th - 27th April: Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet8th - 10th May: Echo Arena, Liverpool

Upper Street Events (www.upperstreetevents.net)7th - 10th August: The Festival of Quilts, The NEC, Birmingham

Sincerely Yours, Papercraft shows (www.sincerely-yours-shows.info) 5th - 6th April: Leigh18th May: Lincoln1st June: Taunton

partnership agreement with UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), which was designed to inspire and support UK-based SMEs in their efforts to succeed in overseas markets. UKTI helped Spring Fair achieve a two per cent increase in overseas visitors attending the show compared with the 2013 event. The partnership boosted international representation at Spring Fair, helping to provide British suppliers with an entry point to international markets and featuring prominent Best of British showcases and Exporter trails throughout the exhibition. Five UKTI Villages were located around the NEC with a total of 50 hand-chosen exhibitors, all entrepreneurial British companies with a particular strength in export business that were new to the show.

DATE FOR NEXT YEAR’S DIARYSpring Fair International 1st - 5th February, 2015The NEC, BirminghamW: www.springfair.com

Knitting Boards and Looms

show review

craftfocus 31

Craft, Hobby & Stitch changed its name many moons ago, but those who have been in the crafting industry for a while still fondly refer to this show as Stitches. This year’s show saw the spark back that had been missing and the crafting sector seems recession-proof. The show was certainly much bigger than previous years with more than 250 manufacturers, distributors and wholesalers showcasing exciting new and innovative products for the coming year’s trading. We noticed that many manufacturers that had been missing had returned with bigger and better stands.

The show was buzzing throughout as more than 250 exhibitors from across the globe connected and engaged with 8,000 creative craft industry professionals that descended on the NEC over the three days. Our only complaint is that three-days was not long enough to explore all that this show had to offer in the form of well-run workshops, seminars and demonstrations and stands to visit.

This year’s show also saw the launch of the new Cake Pro section. This was a brand new area dedicated to the rapidly expanding sector of cake decorating, sugarcrafting and baking, where there were amazing displays and cake works of art demonstrating this new crafting phenomenon. The brand new area attracted lots of attention and was welcomed

by visitors and exhibitors alike. Dawn Butler of Dinkydoodle Designs says: “This show has opened our eyes to the huge overlap between cake decorating and the crafting world.

Visitors have been particularly interested in the airbrushing products, which are edible and usually used on cakes but they’ve been keen to use them on buttons, fabric and stamps! We’ve seen a mixture of visitors from large retailers to independent retailers who’ve seen that they can put craft and cake together. The Cake Pro area fits well within the show and has given us ideas of other products we could create to interest the crafting audience.”

The show welcomed thousands of retailers

through its doors each day. Lyn Symonds from Creative Crafts, who won the Craft Focus competition and won the VIP trip, said: “I’ve had a great time at the show, I always enjoy it but this year there seemed to be an additional level of excitement and optimism. My main aim is to get a feel of the trends and see if they will be a fit in the shop. It’s wonderful to see new products from existing and new suppliers and the demos are so exciting and useful too, allowing us to see and sometimes even have a go with products which we can show to other members of staff and, of course, customers.”

The Bright Sparks Pavilion was packed with upcoming designers and businesses with innovative products for retailers to discover. Tina Francis of Tina Francis Tapestry said: “I’ve had a really good show and met mostly independent traders with two or three shops in different locations, which is a great way of getting my work known across the UK. My products have been really well received, my designs are different to traditional tapestry designs and visitors seem to really like them.”

James Dannell, Director at Needcraft, another Bright Sparks exhibitor, said: “This has been our first trade show, and it’s been fantastic. We’ve met lots of independent retailers who are our target market. It has been great to show visitors what we do and the quality of our products, everyone has been really friendly and professional. Bright Sparks has a real buzz about it and a great position in the centre of the show – it’s been good to meet other like-minded exhibitors in this area too.”

“The response to the show has been overwhelmingly positive both from exhibitors and retailers. Our latest addition, the Cake Pro area, dedicated to cake decorating and sugarcraft supplies, made its debut

at this show and was very well received, not least because of the growing public interest in baking and cake decorating,” said Andrew Morton, ICHF Events Ltd, Show Organiser.

Our first hand account on this year’s Craft, Hobby & Stitch

affectionately known as Stitches

32 craftfocus

affectionately known as Stitches

Craft Focus was invited to attend Immediate Media’s British Craft Awards 2014. The vote was open to readers across Immediate Media’s portfolio of crafting magazines. The award ceremony is always held on one of the evenings during the show and the results were as follows:

The entrance had a new and most welcome display of wonderful innovative products from participating exhibitors (sponsored by Craft Focus) and presented in the form of shop window displays. This was a great way for exhibitors to draw attention and showcase key product lines.

Following on from the revamped fashion show last year, expectations were high. Dance Choregrapher and Tutor, Chris Worrell with Silk Model Management’s Coral Bell put on a colourful show combining catwalk models, dancers and the introduction of male models for the first time. Exhibitors who participated in the catwalk shows included some of the best fabric, yarn, pattern and jewellery manufacturers who showcased their newest product lines.

Stitch Retailer of the YearThe North West - Black Sheep Wools The North East - The Viking Loom The South West - Material Needs The South East - Faye Whittaker’s Pier Shop East Anglia - Threads & Patches The Midlands - Betty Stitchkit Scotland - Nifty Needles Wales - Criss X Stitches

Regional Craft Winners:North West - Inspirations by Cardcraft Plus Ltd North East - Crafty CornerSouth West - Crafty Devils PapercraftSouth East - The Glitter PotEast Anglia - Stamp Addicts Midlands - Blyth Craft StudioScotland - Stamper’s GroveWales - Dandie Crafts

Best stitching online retailer: www.sewandso.co.uk Small business our cross stitchers love to support: Heaven And Earth Designs Favourite stitch designer: Joan Elliott Best newcomer in the stitching world: Kate Knight Ultimate stitching licensed character: Gorjuss, Bothy Threads Favourite thread: DMC stranded cottons Stitching kit collection readers couldn’t resist: Tatty Teddy (Me to You) Anchor Overall stitching retailer of the year and best stitching retailer that went the extra mile in 2013: Material Needs (Somerset)

Overall retailer of the year and best craft retailer who went the extra mile in 2013: Inspirations by Cardcraft Plus LtdBest craft chain Store: HobbycraftBest online retailer: createandcraft.tvBest UK craft & stitch show: ICHF’s Hobbycrafts, NEC Favourite papercraft range: Hunkydory CraftsFavourite craft CD-ROM range: Crafter’s Companion Stamp range you couldn’t resist: Crafter’s Companion Die-cutting range to die for: SpellbindersCraft gadget you couldn’t live without: Spellbinders Grand CaliburFavourite card designer: Joanna Sheen Ultimate craft punch range: Tonic StudiosMost inspirational craft blog: CraftingwithhunkydoryFavourite craft TV presenter/demonstrator: Leonie Pujol

34 craftfocus

The Spanish firm Arenart and its UK distributor, Creative Products Distribution introduced the new and original technique of sand painting. This fun and creative technique uses coloured sand (47 normal colours and 6 metallic) and a special adhesive paper to produce great pictures. Arenart has developed products for children with Arenakids range and also Arenadesigns for adults with predesigned numbered sheets of landscapes, flowers, portraits and silhouettes. This easy-to-use technique is simple because the sheets are already numbered with the colour-number. Just lift the adhesive protector, sprinkle the sand on every space with its number. Arenart products conform to all EU’s safety rules for school and educational products.Creative Products Distribution Ltd T +44(0)20 8953 2143 E: sales@creative-distribution.co.ukW: www.creative-distribution.co.uk

Floral Fantasia from Hunkydory Crafts is a celebration of all things bright and beautiful, featuring the prettiest of flowers teamed with stunning vibrant colours. This all-new collection includes innovative set piece cards compromising spinners, decoupage easels and trellis basket cards glazed with its original diamond sparkles finish and accompanied by silver and gold accent-foil along with beautiful designs filled with favourite flowers. There was a high demand for Hunkdory’s paper pads at the show, all of which feature double-sided patterned papers, foiled papers and embellishments. The pad format ensures that all unused sheets stay in perfect condition until you need them next.

Hunkydory CraftsT: +44 (0)1772 272 575 E: trade@hunkydorycrafts.co.uk W: www.hunkydorycrafts.co.uk

Hantex had several brand new product lines and additions to existing lines, and had something for most retailers. The new ranges from Art Gallery Fabrics was particularly popular, with the Littlest range taking top spot, and the new wooden, hand-painted button packs also proved popular. Each pack is themed with many different designs available, each in an attractive hang-sell cellophane packet. This was also the first time Colette patterns had been shown in the UK and were particularly well received. Colette patterns are very well designed and teach the user as they sew. Visitors liked the off-the-shelf availability of the Batiks fabrics with the great price point and colour brochure support.

The innovative Swatch Buddies fabric sampling system was introduced for the first time to the UK finally providing a solution to the old customer problem of keeping neat, portable record of fabrics. Swatch Buddies is the fastest and easiest way to make swatches of your fabrics for shopping, designing and organising. Just peel the liners off the pre-cut adhesive template and stick to the wrong side of your fabric. Cut the swatch around the template and stick the swatch to the swatch card.

Hantex Ltd T: +44 (0)1754 820 800 E: sales@hantex.co.ukW: www.hantex.co.uk

Bothy Threads launched four new Mirabelle kits that are worked on 16-count Zweigart Aida in subtle colours. The ornate patterns and embellishments make them really interesting stitching projects. The kits come complete with pre-sorted

threads, needles, embellishments and comprehensive instructions/stitch diagrams and retail at £34.99.

Bothy Threads LtdT: +44 (0)1900 828 844E: info@bothythreads.comW: www.bothythreads.com

affectionately known as StitchesHere’s a sample of the super products that we got to see:

36 craftfocus

Crafts brand Gilliangladrag showcased its own range of colourful knitting needles and crochet hooks. The knitting needle range, sold per pair in eye-catching packaging, is available in 14 different sizes from 2.25mm to 10.00mm and comes in two different lengths 25cm and 35cm, retailing between £2.95 and £5.95. The colourful crochet hooks are available separately in 12 popular sizes from 2.25mm to 9mm and retail between £1.95 and £2.95.

Gilliangladrag T: +44 (0)1306 898 144 E: gill@gilliangladrag.co.ukW: www.gilliangladrag.co.uk

Woodware had lots of new products to share with visitors to the show, and was particularly pleased with the response to its brilliant new Bowmaker, ColorBox inks and Clear Scraps new line of laser-cut acrylics mixers. These fun products can be used to spray to give a positive and negative image, and finished with Color Solutions alcohol inks, heated to soften and distort to use as an embellishment.

Woodware Craft Collection LtdT: +44 (0)1756 700 024E: sales@woodware.co.ukW: www.woodware.co.uk

New to the show’s cake decorating sector, Silikomart from Italy demonstrated the mini wonder cakes square. Bakers can now make mini wedding cakes from home small in shape but still great in taste. This silicone mould square will make six mini squared wedding cakes. The mould is presented in bright fuchsia and is made in Italy, and is designed with food safe silicone and resistant to temperatures from -60°C to +230°C, so is suitable for the oven or the freezer.

Silikomart T: +39 041 519 0550 E: info@silikomart.com W: www.silikomart.com/blog/en

With its brand new stand, DMC was able to showcase its product portfolio and highlight the new collection to a wider audience. Popular products proved to be the crochet collection, while the latest cross-stitch kits also created lots of interest. Thomas and Felix, founders of the successful myboshi hand-crocheted beanies, created a real buzz with live product demonstrations and shared their story with visitors (see our interview with Thomas and Felix on the Craft Focus website).

DMC Creative World Ltd T: +44 (0)116 275 4000E: sales@dmccreative.co.ukW: www.dmccreative.co.uk

affectionately known as Stitches

Stitchtastic introduced retailers to its striking original cross-stitch designs. The most popular products was the Eddie Stobart caricature range. Eddie fans can now stitch both the new and old Eddie designs. The original lorry kit measures 44cm x 28cm and is very distinctive, while the newer refrigerated design made its debut and caught everyone’s eye measuring 36cm x 24cm. Both are straightforward stitches which look incredibly detailed when finished and framed. Stitchtastic has no minimum order value and provides free shipping on all orders more than 10 kits.

Stitchtastic T: +44 (0)114 383 0333 E: trade@stitchtastic.comW: www.stitchtastic.com

AND

MORE...

ANDMORE...

NEW FOR SPRING

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ExaClair, UK supplier of brands such as Decopatch, Clairefontaine, Maildor, and Avenue Mandarine showcased its new and exciting products with an attention-grabbing Decopatch lion that stood over a metre tall on the stand. This head-turning piece was a great way to show off its latest papers that include the Tropical range, with green, geometric designs that blend with floral papers plus the tactile, Fuzzy Fur range was used for the lion’s mane and muzzle, and the result marked Decopatch’s move into contemporary, fashion-forward designs, which is reflected in the company’s new catalogue. Also popular were the floral, sparkly and super-kitsch Royalties designs and the Colour Burst range, where textured, subtle patterns are ideal for home décor projects.

Exaclair T: +44(0)1553 696 600 E: enquiries@exaclair.co.ukW: www.exaclair.co.uk

Creative Beadcraft’s expanded range of starter selections attracted a lot of interest, as it now offers more than 60 options for the retail-ready strings including four collections of colour co-ordinated multi-strings, Czech pressed glass beads and pendants, glass pearls and crystal beads such as puffy rondelles, facetted rounds and cubes.The new range of Japanese seed beads and Swarovski bicones and flatbacks in 5cm hanging tubes also proved popular, with the two starter selections of Miyuki delicas. Creative Beadcraft has also introduced a new floor stand utilising perforated panels designed to hold hanging tubes and strings and make a compact but eye-catching display. Each floor stand holds eight perforated panels or can be provided with four perforated panels on the top and four panels with hooks for packs with euroslots on the bottom. Creative Beadcraft T: +44(0)1494 786 924 E: beads@creativebeadcraft.co.uk W: www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk

Hot sellers for Fantastic Ribbons were still the homespun style and vintage look items such as its latest colours in printed, dotted, twill tape ribbons. This haberdashery-associated line has a fabric feel and can be used for textiles, sewing and embellishments. The new range of lace spurned high interest and buttons were still on the increase with interest in the new fabric button range and the exciting new colours in its value packs of mixed loose craft buttons. The general consensus from its customers is that business in sectors like sewing and cake decoration are growing, and the company has recognised the need to buy smartly and provide a lower minimum order of £125 carriage paid and minimum pack size to three units.

Fantastic RibbonsT: +44 (0)844 800 9120E: sales@fatantasticribbonstrade.comW: www.fantasticribbons.com

affectionately known as Stitches

Coats is your crafts partner of choice was the message Coats Crafts wanted to promote at this year’s spring show. Indeed the company’s innovative rebranded stand was created to promote the call to action strapline of the new Make it web portal. Under the new branding Make it Coats, the powerful combination of Rowan, Patons and Schachenmayr handknitting ranges were displayed in the latest yarn cabinets, sitting alongside fresh wall-mounted and gondola cabinets to showcase Rowan and FreeSpirit fabrics.

Customer enthusiasm about its hand-knittings and fabrics ranges remained high, and spread across its more traditional product offers that they reinforced at the show. This included the newly introduced patchwork and quilting cabinets, to reflect the returned popularity of these crafts. Aimed at capturing a younger audience and entice retailers and customers back into embroidery, the

Anchor iPhone cover and Frame It display assortments were showcased.

Coats Crafts T: +44 (0)1484 681 881 E: ccuk.sales@coats.comW: www.makeitcoats.com/en-gb

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY NEW SHOW FOR 2014 Autumn Craft, Hobby + Stitch 21st

- 22nd September, 2014ExCeL, London

Spring Craft, Hobby + Stitch 15-17th February, 2015 NEC, Birmingham W: www.chsi.co.uk

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show review

a world of creativityJulie Bonnar visited and reports back on this year’s brilliant Creativeworld show in Frankfurt

Creativeworld was one of the trio of consumer goods fairs held in Frankfurt am Main at the end of January, and we’re lucky enough to be invited over by Messe Frankfurt to see what products manufacturers had in store for crafters.

X-Cut Build-a-Scene die-cuts from docrafts

Following last year’s rather disheartening business climate, this year’s exhibitors and visitors seemed to be in high spirits, and more economically optimistic about the forthcoming year. All three shows (Paperworld, Creativeworld and Christmasworld) closed their doors having attracted 83,174 visitors from more than 154 countries with 60 per cent of these visitors coming from outside Germany, which was an increase in international buyers over previous years.

FACTS AND FIGURES • CHA (Craft Hobby Association) from the US partnered Creativeworld bringing with it a variety of fresh, new handicrafts trends from across the pond.• 287 exhibitors from 32 countries presented their latest products and trends to 8,165 visitors from all over the world. • The level of international visitors rose 49 per cent. • The top five visitor nations after Germany were France, the Netherlands, Spain, Great Britain and Russia. With the Netherlands and Spain seeing the biggest increases (+111 per cent and +84 per cent respectively). There was also a significant increase of visitors from Japan, Lithuania, China and Taiwan, resulting from the other two shows running along side.

Wow Embossing Powders demonstrates its new silicone moulds

RESPONSE FROM EXHIBITORS AND VISITORS According to an exhibitor’s poll conducted by Messe Frankfurt, 82 per cent of exhibitors were satisfied to extremely satisfied with the Creativeworld fair, and were particularly encouraged by the increase in the number of visitors from the (specialist) retail trade compared to 2013. More managers attended at the fair, which is indicative of a high visitor standard, and the focus of visitor interest was on handicrafts items, followed by graphic and artists’ requisites and textile design.

“Our expectations were exceeded. Saturday, we could hardly move on our stand because there was such a crush! We went to Frankfurt to meet retailers who can be inspired and exploit synergetic effects – and we found them there,” said Michael Hammer, Vice President Sales, Princeton Art & Brush.

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a world of creativity

Creall modelling materials and characters created by clay artist Martin Pottjewijd

NEW HALL 4.2 In addition to Hall 4.1, half of Hall 4.2 was opened to Creativeworld exhibitors this year. This hall also offered a varied and interesting events programme including the new Creative Talks area, the Creative Impulse special show, the My Bag Café and the US Pavilion were all highlights of this area. Visitors were able to see the latest trends from the US, listen to expert lectures and create their own bags at My Bag. USA PARTNERSHIP The US presented its latest products in a special pavilion with 37 exhibitors exhibiting in the fields of paper, card design, stamping, punching, modeling and also holding a selection of lectures to share the creative trends that are currently happening in the States.

The US Pavilion showcased the latest handicrafts ideas and new products from the US and the joint presentation with 16 exhibitors organised in co-operation with the Craft & Hobby Association (CHA).

“We presented companies

belonging to our association that want to gain a foothold in the

European market. A partnership with Creativeworld is the

right way to bring the industry together with new customers,” said CHA President Andrej Suskavcevic.

“We tried to create a much stronger image at this show and in Europe as a key arts and craft

paint supplier. Creativeworld is as important in Europe as

CHA is for the United States, so we expect Creativeworld will give us access to many more new customers and to help

us support our already strong wholesalers in Europe,” said Stan Cliffords, President and CEO of DecoArt.

TREND SHOW, MY BAG AND CREATIVE AWARDS CEREMONYA magnet for visitors was the Trend Show, organised by Trend Bureau (bora.herke.palmisano) for Messe Frankfurt. The designers set out to combine traditional handicrafts techniques with fresh ideas to inspire visitors. With a special exhibition and awards ceremony, the second Creative Hands was held at the fair, this time under the motto ‘My Bag’ which Craft Focus featured on its website. The 20 most creative bag designs were put on show at ‘My Bag Café’ and the jury chose the most attractive design. The winner came from Kathrin Holighaus who created a bag with an integrated folder.The presentation of the Creative Impulse Awards was very interesting. The awards had four categories this year, and visitors had the opportunity to see all entries for themselves. Also new for this show was the Creative Talks lecture area that provided a favourable setting for the expert lectures but also for panel debates.

Suppliers of Card Making, Scrapbooking, Craft and Bridal Supplies

Suppliers of

sales@e-crafts.co.uk | 01384 230000

Craft and Bridal SuppliesCard MakingScrapbooking

Card EmbellishmentsFloral Products

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DIARY DATES FOR NEXT YEARCreativeworld, Paperworld and Christmasworld 31st January - 3rd February, 2015Venue: Frankfurt am Main T: +44( 0)1483 483 983 E: info@uk.messefrankfurt.comW: www.creativeworld.messefrankfurt.com

a world of creativity

Textile printing and customising garments continues to be very popular and the more colourful the better is this year’s motto. Dip dyeing and templating are simple techniques that produce great results. Decorate with rhinestones or rivets, motifs, paints, sprays, specialty pens, and embellishments.

Washi tapes are hot news too and can be used to wrap and liven up a wide range of projects.

“People love to make things for themselves. As paint manufacturers, we benefit from this and take account of the latest trends. A major trend at the moment is, for example, paint that you can use to personalise textiles,” says Marabu’s Marketing Director, Kirsten Rohde.

TRENDING SPOTTINGThe handicrafts trend and the desire for customisation and DIY crafting are becoming increasingly popular, and the appetite for this was reflected in the show with new techniques that picked up on the trends.

Innovative dress your doll from Roos Production

TOP TRENDS TO LOOK OUT FOR: • Crochet has gained a strong fan base, and it’s the younger generation getting involved. Crochet inventers Thomas and Felix of myboshi from DMC’s exciting new range of fun beanie’s has helped this sector pick up pace.• Patchworking has bounced back with a contemporary look, and there are more and more consumer magazines supporting this traditional craft.• Up-cycling or refashioning– whatever name you would prefer to know it by, making something new from old is huge business.• Leather crafting is set to be big news, from jewellery making to bag making and accessories.• Punching motifs into borders made of paper or felt has become very popular for decorating bags, garments, greetings cards and decorating cakes, making these items more desirable.

Tread carefully with Molotow’s Grafx markers

That’s Original demonstrates the creativity of products with ilovetocreate.com

Marabu’s stand was impressive with lots of inspiring projects for its latest paints and sprays for fabric, porcelain and glass.

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show reviewcrafting on a mega scale

News and reviews from the CHA conference and trade show

The Craft & Hobby Association (CHA) announced an increase in attendance at this year’s annual Conference & Trade show held in Anaheim, California in January. It aimed to bring together the key players of the crafts and creative industry from retailers large and small, independent chains, and the leading innovations in crafting from more than 400 exhibitors from around the world over the four days.

FACTS AND FIGURESFor those of you who don’t know, CHA is an international non-profit trade association consisting of thousands of member companies engaged in design, manufacture, distribution and retail sales of products worldwide in the US craft and hobby industry.

• 2994 buyers, 4.28 per cent increase from 2866 buyers in the previous year (2013).• 4.11 per cent increase in total attendance.• 23 per cent international attendees from 55 countries including Japan, Australia and the United Kingdom.• The conference portion of the show was well attended with 32 per cent of total attendees participating in education sessions. • There were 116 total programs offered including seminars, workshops and events, of which 26 were sold out. Many new programs were introduced to the Conference programme line-up this year including Lunch-n-Learn Boot Camp sessions, Hands-On Labs

and Artisan Workshops. Seminars with a focus on technology and social media were a firm favourite with attendees.

Two new education components extended to the show floor this year and included a Makerspace that highlighted the Maker Movement with live demonstrations and hourly business and education seminars, as well as Education Theatres featuring hands-on workshops during show floor hours.New features also included a fun VIP buyer lounge and membership bar, and a Bead Pavilion, where bead and jewellery exhibitors could display their wares in their own exclusive area.

Overall feedback from the show has been very positive, and this was backed up by a very busy show floor that featured a large and diverse selection of craft and creative products from exhibitors from all around the world. Exhibitor numbers were on par with last year, showing a definite halt in previously declining numbers.

“As a bead store owner, I naturally attend many bead-related

wholesale and retail shows. The good thing about attending a

general craft show such as CHA is that it gives me an opportunity to think outside the box. These

days, you can’t stay in business by focusing only on your own main product lines. You need to look outside to see how other craft

products can be incorporated into your business,” Marg Yama.

Create & Craft live from the CHA show

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1. Beadlon Artistic Wire Findings Forms™

2. Beadalon Knot-a-Bead™

3. BIC® Magic Marker® brand Window Marker 4. Brother International Corporation ScanNCut machine

5. Chameleon Art Products Ltd Color Tones Pens

6. ComposiMold PowerMold Modeling Compound Push Mold Kit

7. Craftwell eBrush

8. Crystal Katana: from CrystalNinja.com 9. DecoArt Chalky Finish Program 10. DesignMaster TintIT™

11. Ellison/Sizzix Modern Surrealist by Marisa Pawelko

12. Fiskars Brands 12 inch x 12 inch Rotary Ruler Combo

13. ICE Resin Susan Lenart Kazmer Iced Enamels®

14. iLoveToCreate Aleene’s® Quick Dry Fabric Fusion®

15. Little B Perfect Positioner 16. Lumi Inkodye Black

17. M-D Building Products Metal Sheets

18. Plaid Enterprises Mod Podge Mod Melter

19. Ranger Industries Tim Holtz® Distress Marker Spritzer

20. Spellbinders Tool-n-One .

Top Prizes went to:Brother International Corporation for ScanNCut machine A revolutionary new home and hobby cutting machine with the convenience of a 300 DPI built-in scanner.

Craftwell eBrush For the portable airbrush system used by crafters, cake decorators and beauty enthusiasts alike for scrapbooking, makeup application and more. Spellbinders for the Tool-n-OneA portable tool that performs multiple craft functions, including piercing, folding, paper removal, inking, distressing, curling, and more.

The CHA Exhibiting with Excellence awards These were presented to companies whose dynamic displays and merchandising techniques enhance the overall atmosphere of the show floor. The 2014 award winners went to: • Chameleon International for New Exhibitor Award • Clear Bags for Inline Award, SpinRite for Island/Peninsula Award • Lion Brand Yarn for the Critics’ Choice Award. The annual Craft Industry Prestigious Service Awards These were also presented during the show and were awarded as follows:• Gail Czech of The Creative Network, Inc. received The Meritorious Award –this is the highest honour the Association can bestow and acknowledges an individual or group that has made a significant contribution to the Association and Industry.• Georganne Bender and Rich Kizer of Kizer & Bender Speaking received the Industry Achievement Award. This is awarded to a CHA member (individual, group/company) that has made a significant contribution to the growth and vitality of the Craft and Hobby Industry as a whole.• Lion Brand Yarn Co. received The CHA Special Recognition Award, whichrecognises an individual or group for extraordinary contributions that positively showcase the Craft and Hobby Industry.

crafting on a mega scale

1ST PLACE

DIARY DATES FOR NEXT YEARCHA 2015 Mega Conference & Trade Show 8-13th January 2015 Anaheim, California W: www.craftandhobby.org

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BUZZ-WORTHY PRODUCT AWARDSThe Hot 20 Awards is an annual feature of this show that recognises exhibitors for outstanding work in product innovation, with 20 of the most innovative crafting products of the year selected by a jury of industry professionals and representatives from the media. Winners are chosen from over 80 products submitted to the CHA 2014 New

Products Showcase, and the most innovative and buzz-worthy products are selected by a panel of expert media judges, including: Cynthia Richter, Woman’s World Magazine; Nancy Nally, Scrapbook Update; Jenny Barnett-Rohrs, Craft Test Dummies; Jade Harrington-Boudreaux, Jaderbomb.com and Lisa Fulmer, Cool2Craft.com.

2NDPLACE

3RDPLACE

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father’s day

man-madeProduct offerings for crafters to make and give for Father’s dayTop that! Perfect for Father’s Day, this Special Moments topper set from Hunkydory Crafts features fun images of Dad in slippers taking it easy in his armchair with the Sunday newspaper, with a cup of tea in hand. Including sentiments for Father’s day, Grandad and birthday, this Hunkydory Crafts topper set is versatile and can be used for many more than this occasion. Lovingly die-cut onto 300gsm card stock and foiled with rich gold, this pack also contains a co-ordinating sheet of 350gsm A4 printed Adorable Scorable, plus one 350gsm sheet of A4 accent-foiled Adorable Scorable cardstock. This Father’s Day topper set retails at £2.99, and is part of the Milestones and Special Moments Collection, which includes a selection of toppers for all occasions.

Hunkydory CraftsT: +44 (0)1772 272 575E: trade@hunkydorycrafts.co.uk W: www.hunkydorycrafts.co.uk

Eye candyThis year is the 20th anniversary of the Uni-ball Eye, one of the most popular rollerball pens in the country. To celebrate this milestone Uni-ball has released the Eye Designer. This pen combines a bright, stylish design with the reliability and quality of the original Eye pen, and comes in eight vibrant ink colours. The Designer is available loose, or in a variety of triple pack combinations and as an all-inclusive eight-piece set. Whether customers are looking for the latest fashion accessory or simply a good pen, they will find it in the Eye Designer.

Mitsubishi Pencil Co. UK LtdT: +33 0100 9933 E: info@mpuni.euW: www.uniball.co.uk

Food for thoughtThis Food Map cross-stitch by Helen Smith is available from Bothy Threads, and will not only be informative, explaining the history behind the foods depicted, but a bit of fun for Dad’s to put up in their workspace. Designed on 16-count ice blue Aida and measuring 36cm x 42cm, it retails at £34.99.

Bothy ThreadsT: +44 (0)844 8000 221 E: info@bothythreads.com W: www.bothythreads.com

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Trucker appealStitchtastic has come up with some great cross-stitch designs based around its most popular caricature ranges, which will make great gifts for men. The new Eddie Stobart kit reflects some of this famous haulage company’s newer truck liveries. While this aircraft caricature range includes the Vulcan Bomber, with its wing tip brushing the clouds this design looks amazing both from a distance and close up.

Both kits come with DMC threads, presorted onto thread cards and Zweigart aida, and costs £29.95. Stitchtastic has no minimum order and offers free shipping on any order over 10 kits.

StitchtasticT: +44 (0)114 383 0333E: sales@stitchtastic.comW: www.stitchtastic.com

A date to rememberLa Pashe has got Father’s Day well and truly covered this year, with papercraft products to suite every kind of Dad out there. Calendar Cards feature customisable built-in date wheels which allow the card-maker to choose a specific date to display on the front of the card, so simply set to 15th June to make this a perfect card for his special day. There are some fabulous designs to choose from including the two shown here – Free wheeling and Seat in the shade.

La PasheT: +44 (0)191 417 6494 E: trade@lapashe.comW: www.lapashe.com

A good read for hobbyistsGMC Distribution stocks a good range of niche books on a variety of craft and hobbyist topics. Here are just two of the latest releases that will appeal to men: Modern Cartooning By Christopher Hart Price: £14.99ISBN: 978-0823007141 Published by Watson-guptil

This new book is aimed at budding cartoon artists who are keen on learning how to draw this style. The book features a fresh look at cartooning and has an easy-to-follow approach to the process. Christopher Hart shows readers basic tips for creating a cast of the most hilarious, outrageous characters inspired by today’s cartoons. Packed full of tips, hints and step-by-step illustrations, Modern Cartooning gives artists of all ages the tools they’re required to let imaginations flourish.

Bryan Peterson’s Exposure Solutions By Bryan Peterson Price: £14.99ISBN: 978-0770433055 Published by Amphoto American professional photographer and internationally known instructor, Bryan Peterson is known the world over and is the best-selling author of many photography books, with this new book set to be no exception. It contains a compilation of best tips from some of his earlier publications, and many fresh ideas desgined to alleviate some of the more challenging situations. Bryan has a knack of making a complex and often confusing topic seem easy-to-understand with his trademark use of colour and strong, graphic composition that has acquired him many photographic awards. The book explains how to solve the most common photography problems and help photographers grasp the correct exposure for a variety of situations. Amateur or professional, everyone will be able to take something away with them.

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As an online business, your product photography is the closest your customers will get to the real product before purchasing. Daniel Ruffle, Head of Digital Design at Metakinetic describes how to make the most of your images

a picture can speak a thousand wordsSEVEN COMMANDMENTS FOR GREAT ONLINE PRODUCT IMAGESThe images that accompany your product description will actually have more influence on a buyer than the details in the text, so if you want to give your stock the best chance of converting you may want to review the images that you’re currently using.

Visuals are always extremely persuasive and your product image needs to capture all the intricacies of an item to give it every possible chance of attracting an online buyer. If you can afford to get professional photography for your products rather than using the manufacturer's images then I’d definitely recommend this. It also helps to add a dimension of brand personality to your products that will set them apart from competitors who might be selling the exact same items.

1Provide more than one image and from multiple anglesDo you still only display one solitary

image on your product page? Your customers will expect more. You should aim to include at least three images from various angles (usually front, back and side) to really showcase the product. Your images are also a very important contributor to the overall brand experience a visitor receives on your website. They help to tell your story, as well as sell your products, so they should be as high quality as possible and take up a large portion of the product page. Your merchandising strategy should also be extended to your product photography to maintain brand consistency.

2Create a sense of depth in your imageYou need your visitors to be interested

and excited by your product imagery, and while blank white backgrounds aid clarity they can also be quite dull and uninspiring. To create intrigue in the image, try placing the item against a backdrop that sets it at the forefront of the frame. If you’re worried about

the background of your image becoming too busy you can use backdrops in different shades of white/cream to add dimension without drawing the focus away from your product.

3Show the finer details of the product with zoomIf your products have delicate detailing

like craft products do, it’s vital that you allow users to see this up close. Including a zoom function is a quick and easy way for visitors to see an enlarged version of your main image. There are a variety of zoom functions that you can use, the easiest being a Click to enlarge link under the main image which will literally open

a pop-up window of the image in a bigger size. More advanced offerings using Javascript or Flash include Magic Toolbox Zoom, which operates without a pop-up box, and Adobe’s Scene 7.

4Engage with your audienceYou know the perfect use for your product, so why not photograph it in

that precise setting? Images that show an item in use or in location are far more persuasive than those with an abstract background. A pretty embroidered tablecloth would appear far more desirable to a visitor if it was shown in a teatime setting in the garden rather than

Designer Isabel M

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business advice

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folded neatly on a plain white surface. Think about how and where your product will be used and plan your images to capture this scene.

5Use a large default imageIf your image is the most persuasive element of a product page, it makes

sense to ensure that this is as large as possible, both on the product page and in the search page. As a general rule, your product image should take up a minimum of 50 per cent of your product page, and the product itself should be in 80 per cent of the frame. Be aware that, when adding a larger image to your page for the zoom functionality, you’ll need to upload a smaller fully-formatted image to be the main default. If you edit the large zoom image in the source code to reduce it in size this will only increase your page-load time, which can infuriate visitors.

6Be differentJust because your competitors showcase its products in a certain way,

it doesn’t mean you have to stick to the same mould. Your product images also represent your brand to a potential customer so by demonstrating your brand style and creativity in your product photography you can help customers buy into your brand vision, as well as the individual products making an online experience far more enjoyable and memorable. The best product photography will come after you’ve spent some time developing your own individual image style, which can then be replicated through all the images on your site.

7Don’t be afraid to use rich media Don’t restrict your product pages to only include images. 360-degree product

viewers and product demonstration videos are all fantastic ways to improve the amount

of information that you’re providing to your customers, and can be relatively inexpensive to implement.

Video works particularly well for craft products that form part of a wider craft project, giving you the opportunity to showcase the item in use, as well as the end result that can be created with it. Again, if you’re using either of these rich media features try to include touches of your own branding to create an original experience for the visitor.

Hopefully, this has given you some food for thought on the ways to improve your own product photography. Once you’ve come up with a plan of action, the next most important step is testing. Not all customers will prefer the same features, so it’s recommended spending a month testing the various different changes that you’ve identified before you make any permanent amendments.

If you think your products would benefit from a larger amount of images, first test which amount works best – three may be too small, and five may be too many. Similarly, if you are re-doing your photography to include shots from different angles, you should start by trialling different images to identify which angles create the most conversions. You may find that, depending on the product, the inclusion of a side-view image is all that is needed to boost sales, whilst other products may require a top-view and internal-view to improve conversions. You may even discover a whole new market for your products waiting just across the pond.

Daniel Ruffle is Head of Digital Design at Metakinetic, an award-winning full service e-commerce agency. Based in Wokingham, Berkshire, with a team of 20 specialists, the

company provides e-commerce solutions, digital marketing and creative design services to a wide range of online retailers. Focused on quality, support and delivering commercial results, Metakinetic helps clients become more successful online.T: +44 (0)118 324 9000 E: hello@metakinetic.comW: www.metakinetic.com

Designer Isabel M

anson, Photography Zoom

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TO ENTERTo enter the competition go to www.craftfocus.com, fill in your details and answer the following question:Q. Which three colours feature in this collection?Closing date is 31st May, 2014

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WIN!Here’s your chance to win 30 Lace in Bloom luxury card collections, courtesy of Hunkydory Crafts, one of the UK’s premier papercraft manufacturers

THE PRIZE The Lace in Bloom Collection from Hunkydory Crafts is a celebration of nature’s most beautiful flowers and blossoms with stunning shades of carnation pink, lavender haze and hydrangea blue. This kit is ideal for all-year round card making, with a versatile soft colour palette suitable for all occasions including birthdays, anniversaries and more.

FEATURESDelicate lace borders and pretty doilies are predominant throughout the collection, along with exquisite silver foiled accents, which add a touch of style and elegance to your cards. This collection is a wonderful mix of foiled and die-cut card toppers and miniature postcards, complemented by pretty borders and sentiments, with die-cut decoupage for added depth and dimension. Also included are 24 sheets of foiled and printed Adorable Scorable cardstock for that extra-special Hunkydory touch to your cards.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION Hunkydory Crafts is a family-run business that is passion about, and specialises in, papercraft products. This company also features in one of this month’s company profiles; read more about them on pages 70 - 71. T: +44 (0)1772 272 575E: trade@hunkydorycrafts.co.ukW: www.hunkydorycrafts.co.uk

Terms and Conditions1. Competitions are not open to employees of KD Media Publishing Ltd (including immediate families)2. Entrants must be a member of the trade and over 18 years old 3. The competition closing date is subject to change without prior notice4. The winner will be notified in writing5. The editor’s decision is final. No discussion will be entered into6. The prize is not transferable and has no monetary value7. No purchase necessary, and there is no charge to enter via the website: www.craftfocus.com

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storage so

lutions

let’s organiseHelp crafters stay tidy and keep craft materials safely with innovative storage solutions

STYLISH SEWING Korbond has an extensive range of storage solutions offering a variety of options to cater for a range of tastes and trends. The collection includes fashionable fabric sewing baskets, practical craft organisers, stylish knitting bags and storage racks. To view Korbond’s entire storage range visit: sew.korbond.co.uk.

Hot products for this year include Korbond ‘Creations’ sewing baskets that come in fi ve varieties of carefully selected fabrics:

• Harbourside – an alternative take on the popular nautical style, this textured fi nish sewing basket is a unique option.• Bloom – this fl oral fabric combines soft and feminine colours to provide a traditional design option for crafters and sewing enthusiasts. • Retro – this eye-catching fabric is a great colourful option for those that have an artistic nature.• Candy Stripe – this minimalistic striped pattern presents an appealing two-tone effect making this fabric an attractive option for those who like to keep things simple.• Monochrome – this stylish fabric emphasises core colours of black and white, in a fl oral feminine design.

KorbondT: +44 (0)1476 581 888E: sales@korbond.co.ukW: www.korbond.co.uk

ON THE MOVE Studio Collection offers must-have luxury for sewing, quilting and crafting enthusiasts and is the latest addition to the popular range of Groves storage solutions. Designed with attention to detail, it offers the best in style, while being totally practical for keeping sewing machines, accessories and project work protected and tidy – perfect for travelling or simply storing at home. Made from wear-resistant padded fabric, these sturdy yet elegant cases have comfort grip handles and multiple storage pockets and compartments. With easy glide heavy-duty zips the Studio Collection is built to last. The fat quarter bag sits neatly on top of the trolleys and in addition to storing fat quarters is also excellent for storing items such as thread boxes and books.

CONTEMPORARY DESIGNS Groves has just launched its Hobby Gift Collection for this year, which includes sewing machine bags, craft bags, knitting and crochet holders. Designed to suit all tastes and budgets, prints include animal, fl oral, polka dot and contemporary. Retail prices start at around £17.

Both the Studio Collection and Hobby Gift ranges are currently on trade promotion, so contact your local Groves representative for more details.Groves T: +44 (0)1844 258 080E: sales@groves-banks.comW: www.groves-banks.com

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HANDY FOR BUDDING ARTISTS This colourful NeoCritz pencil case, designed by Japanese brand Kukuyo, combines function with style. Zip it up and carry it as a pouch when on the go, then once you’re settled at your desk, open the case and fold back the top to convert it into a standing penholder. Compact in design it takes up little space on the desk. Pens and pencils are displayed well and easy to grab. There are two small pockets on the inside, handy for stashing correction tape, erasers or leads. As a crafter, this case can be used for safely storing your crafting tools that you use regularly.

Kukoyo is distributed by Stone MarketingT: +44 (0)1732 771 771E: sales@stonegift.comW: www.stonemarketing.com

NEEDLE SAFESeek It Out is an online crafting company that aims to inspire adults to take up creative hobbies. It has recently launched a new range of sewing kits for the wholesale market which includes this knitting pin wrap and needle case. Both of these can be made by machine or hand for those who want to enjoy a complete sewing experience without huge expense and hassle. Each project includes thread, pins and needle, a tape measure and comes in a quirky hand-made oilcloth bag, which can be used again and again. Designed by Shropshire twosome Frank Wagstaff and Rosie Beswick, the projects offer adults a great way to learn to sew inexpensively. “They are fun little projects that teach you how to sew, cut out and follow a pattern,” says Rosie.

Seek It OutT: +44 (0)1743 885 292 E: trade@seekitout.co.ukW: www.seekitout.co.uk

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FILE IN STYLEDue to the nature of alcohol pens – these need to be stored horizontally to ensure the flow of ink remains at both ends. This modular stacking system from Crafter’s Companion can be customised to suit a crafter’s workspace, and built up in three convenient ways; horizontally, vertically or angled, and stacked as high or wide as space will allow. Each individual unit will hold 12 pens which is the perfect size to hold two full packs of colour-themed Spectrum Noir pens. However, this pen storage solution will fit other brands of pens up to 17mm in diameter, as each tray measures 13.5cm x 24cm. They are available in black or clear, and retail at £5.99 per tray.

Crafter’s CompanionT: +44 (0)1388 660 930 E: sales@crafterscompanion.co.ukW: www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

BOBBINS AT THE READYPrym has some practical solutions for sewers that will not only help store products safely but also make them easy to use. These two products will solve the unraveling bobbin syndrome. This 32-compartmental bobbin box means that all bobbins can be pre-loaded with favourite threads, eliminating the need to stop in the middle of a sewing project to refill a bobbin.

For smaller projects and workshops, this doughnut-shaped bobbin ring is just as useful and will prevent bobbin threads from unwinding and tangling. Mould to fit the bobbin by submerging in boiling water, and then press the sides and immerse into cold water to fix into shape. This ring will hold up to 20 bobbins securely. Both versions will hold metal or plastic bobbins, and all brands and different sizes. Prym Europe GmbHT: +49 (0)24 0214 04 E: info@prym-consumer.comW: www.prym-consumer.com

A TREASURE CHEST OF LUXURY AND TRADITIONFor the ultimate in thread storage, DMC Creative World is offering retailers the opportunity to offer its customers a fantastic wooden Collector’s Box containing one skein of every DMC stranded cotton colour – this equates to 465 colours in total. This box is beautifully crafted in high-quality wood and would be a welcome gift to any serious stitcher. The box keeps the full stranded cotton range neatly stored in one place with projects and accessories stored in a compartment in the top of the box. The chest’s dimensions are 45cm x 35cm x 27cm.

DMC CreativeT: +44 (0)116 275 4000 E: sales@dmccreative.co.ukW: www.dmccreative.co.uk

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around the housesWe talk to Michael Powell about his love of architectural art, watercolour painting, and its conversion to beautiful cross-stitch products

As an artist what inspired you to turn your artwork into designs for cross-stitch?It was a pure accident! I was exhibiting my paintings and a lady who visited the exhibition suggested that my artwork might make great cross-stitch kits. We made up some samples, which sold really well. We really didn’t look back and 12 years later, it would seem she was right!

What are the best-selling products?The bookmarks sell well, and the newest to the range is Tall Houses which includes Italian Villa, Timber House and Chateau, with other designs to follow shortly. The designs are fully stitched and use full crosses and back stitch, with some blend colours producing a beautiful and practical result. These bookmark kits contain everything you need to stitch the complete design including the Aida band, tassel

and felt backing and Anchor threads. Full instructions and two charts sets– one for

general stitching and one for the backstitch – are also included. The kits retail at £10.99 and make wonderful gifts for cross-stitchers or book lovers.

The mini kits are great collections to get crafters hooked on cross-stitch, and make good PoS products. These are divided into a number of collections with something for everyone from Cottages, Lighthouses, Spanish Cottages, Christmas Windows, Snow Scenes, and a range of holiday scenes from the Greek Islands, Venice and Tuscany plus new additions including Summer Daisies.

The best selling design is the biggest one we produce, which is the Venice Palazzo Triptych. This is made up of three designs that can be put together to make a triptych but they also work as individual pictures too, making them great value. Secret Garden 1 and Up the Garden Path are also popular.

Up the garden

Hearts and Flowers bookmarks

Tall Houses bookmark – Tall Timber Mini Myrtle Cottage from the Mini Kits range

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pany profi

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Michael Powell ArtT: +44 (0)29 4049 6000E: info@michaelpowellart.co.ukW: www.michaelpowellart.co.uk

What tips would you give retailers who are considering stocking your cross-stitch designs in their stores? It’s so important to have some completed stitched models, and to provide a little space to show these – even when space is at a premium – as it does work. For retailers, we offer high quality laser print service free of charge for models of the mini kits, bookmarks and some of the 8 inch square designs. When framed, these show the finished design to a quality that is difficult to tell from the originals.

Some of your designs have been adapted for paper-crafting and for sending as an e-card – how did this come about?Last year, I worked with DoCrafts to produce a range of stamps, papers and decoupage kits that all sold very well. I’m planning some new ranges that I hope to launch soon under my own brand too.

Congratulations, we know you’ve won Designer of the Year four years on the trot. Tell us a bit about this award?This is the award now called the British Craft Awards and is voted for by readers and subscribers to the Immediate Media magazines including World of Cross Stitching. It’s brilliant to be voted Designer of the Year, and to receive it four years in a row – it’s just fantastic and makes it all worthwhile!

What is trending in the cross-stitch market at the moment? I tend not to follow the trends. My work concentrates on characters, bears, rabbits and places. However, we do find themes like gardens, hearts and flowers work extremely well for us, and of course, buildings of all shapes and sizes have become our trademark.

Do you have any exciting plans or products that you can give us a sneak preview of?Yes, I can tell you that we’ll shortly be launching a new Triptych called Place du Marché (Market Square) and, as it sounds, it’s a French-based image. It’s a gorgeous computer generated image of the skyline, but we think it looks great, and retailers and customers will love it too. We also have many other products in the pipeline for later in the year. C

Venice Palazzo Triptych

Place du Marché triptych

Flower Meadow bookmark

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Stocking craft books alongside your other product lines is a great way to make

additional sales. We review the latest editions to hit the bookstands

bookstand

QUILTERS, THEIR QUILTS, THEIR STUDIOS, THEIR STORIESBy Jo Packham Price: £16.99 RRP ISBN: 978 1 592538928 Publisher: Quarry Books

This book gives those who love quilting an insight into the work of 30 of the top quilters in the industry such as Amy Butler, Kaffe Fassett, Tula Pink and Brigitte Heitland to name just a few. Author Jo Packham, editor-in-chief of Where Women Create, has been a leading innovator in the hand-made publishing industry for more than 30 years. Discover each of the designer’s quilting stories, be inspired by their fantastic studios, and gain technical advice for making and displaying your own quilts – with access to more than 80 online quilt patterns too.

QUILTING

We say: “Quilters, Their Quilts, Their Studios, Their Stories is a great book for those who want to take their quilting to another level.”

CAKE DECORATING

KNIT YOUR OWN ZOOBy Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne Price: £12.99 RRP ISBN: 9781908449443 Publisher: Collins & Brown

Collins & Brown has a new addition to its bestselling Best in Show series. Knit your own Zoo features 25 cute wild animals to knit and bring to life. It features some well-known animals such as lions, tigers and bears plus a few unusual ones like fruit bat, meerkat and armadillo. Authors Sally Muir and Joanna Osborne are the knitting duo behind this publisher’s very successful Knit Your Own books, and they also run their own knitting business, Muir and Osborne. This new addition is simple to follow with detailed instructions and clear photography.

KNITTING

We say: “Knit your own Zoo is a handy-sized book that puts the fun back into knitting. The back of this book also features some helpful hints and methods for choosing yarns, knitting the pieces and the final stuffing of the animals.”

STEP-BY-STEP CAKE DECORATINGBy Karen Sullivan Price: £16.99 RRP ISBN: 978 1 4093 3481 1 Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Over the last few years, cake decorating has become extremely popular from beginners making the obligatory cupcake or trendy cake pop to more experienced cake decorators creating dreamy tiered celebration cakes. This book features DK’s signature step-by-step photography that makes any new craft easy to grasp, and covers everything you need to build and decorate your own amazing cakes for every occasion imaginable. The dedicated technique chapter gives cake makers some of the best expert tips to help learn what the best tools for the job are, how to make a variety of butter-cream icings and marzipans, and how to make a glossy ganache. Learn the art of piping, stenciling and making delicate flower decorations with 20 one-of-a-kind projects from three award-winning cake designers – you’ll be making bespoke cakes in no time at all.

We say: “We like this book, it’s very easy to read and excellent to dip in and out of to perfect your master baker skills.”

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HAND PRINTING

Anova Books, T: +44 (0)207 605 1466, www.anovabooks.comAurum Publishing Group, www.aurumpublishinggroup.comDorling Kindersley, T: +44 (0)207 010 3709, www.dk.co.uk

GMC Publications, T: +44 (0)1273 488 005, www.thegmcgroup.comJacqui Small, T: +44 (0)207 284 9300, www.aurumpress.co.ukQuarry, www.quarrybooks.com

Book Contacts

THE PRINT MAKING BOOKBy Vanessa Mooncie Price: £14.99 RRP ISBN: 9781861089212 Publisher: GMC Distribution

The Print Making Book is a great resource book for those crafters who want to try hand-printing. It’s full of projects and techniques to transform lots of ordinary everyday household items into works of art. All techniques are easy replicated and can be done at home. Learn sun, relief painting, mono printing, Lino prints and image transfer techniques with 23 beautiful projects to make to show off your new skills. Items to make include scarves, tea towels, stationery, bags and cushions.

We say: “This is a great book for a wide range of crafters who want to add a real custom feel to their projects.”

SEWING

BOLD & BEAUTIFULBy Habibe Acikgoz Price: £20.00 RRP ISBN: 978 1 906417- 84-0 Publisher: Jacqui Small

Bold & Beautiful contains a range of easy-to-sew clothes that are designed for wearing individually and together. Habibe Ackkgoz has made a series of modern garments that skim the body to create a flowing but elegant and flattering silhouette to suit all ages and body shapes. The book comes with a CD that contains all the pattern pieces to make the clothing outlined in the book. The illustrated guides explain how to construct each of the garments along with all the techniques to get a perfect fit and professional finish. The first chapter concentrates on how these garments can be worn together to create a range of outfits for all occasions.

We say: “Habibe is Turkish born, and has been living in London working as an established dressmaker, selling her garments through specialist boutiques, for the last three years. She now has customers all over the world.”

JEWELLERY MAKINGHOW TO MAKE SILVER CHARMS FROM METAL CLAYBy Sue Heaser Price: £12.99 RRP ISBN: 978 1 84543-508-0 Publisher: Apple Press Any crafter that has worked with clays will have heard of author Sue Heaser. Sue is an internationally renowned artist, author and teacher and has been working with both polymer and metal clays for more than 25 years. Sue explains in this inspirational book how to craft intricate pure silver charms with no silver-smithing training and with little specialist equipment. Learn all the essential techniques including designing, moulding, finishing and firing plus how to add loops to add to chain. The silver charms featured in this book have been divided into chapters according to skill level. With 50 projects for beginners to more challenging miniaturization projects, there’s a really good selection.

We say: “Any jewellery maker will love this book. It has over 50 different charms to choose from including butterflies, silhouettes, birds and animals to handbags, insects and lucky charms.”

BIRDS – 20 JEWELRY AND ACCESSORY DESIGNSBy Sophie Robertson Price: £9.99 RRP ISBN: 978 1 861089762Publisher: GMC Distribution

This book looks at jewellery making from a bird inspired perspective to create unusual pieces from scratch. Sophie Robertson starts by outlining all the tools, materials, findings and techniques that you will need to create the 20 projects that are featured in this book. The second half of the book is then divided into earrings; necklaces and pendants; bracelets, bangles and rings; brooches and cufflinks; and accessories. There really is something for everyone, whether you are a classic or contemporary fan. We say: “Bird-inspired crafting is a very popular trend at the moment and this is a lovely book to help those new to jewellery making.”

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BARE ALLStaple and essential, the Bare Basics from docrafts is a simplistic but refreshing range for crafters to achieve a truly homemade feel to their crafting. This new Papermania collection will be a fundamental part of any crafter’s stash. And with growing trends continuing towards upcycling and the make and mend attitude, there’s been an increased demand for core products that can be used to transform tired items into fresh and contemporary makes. Muted, natural textures such as canvas, hessian and wood provide the foundations for this range, which are versatile to suit all crafters’ needs but will also add a contemporary feel to any card or scrapbook. The star, tag, heart, flag and canvas shapes are ideal for appliqué and for use on larger scaled projects as each pack includes six pieces. Hessian is still the go-to material for the ultimate rustic feel and the jute ribbon, 8 inch x 8 inch hessian squares, hessian pockets and shapes provide various options for crafting projects.

docrafts T: +44(0)1202 811 000 E: info@docrafts.comW: www.docrafts.biz

putting your mark on itNew and original product offerings for scrappers and stampers

A4 EMBOSSINGCrafter’s Companion now has some exciting new A4 embossing folders for the eBosser or Grand Calibur machines from the American designer, Teresa Collins and Craftwell. There are12 designs available in this collection from bold wording through to vintage-style patterns, allowing for a great variety of crafting styles. Choose from designs such as About Time (steampunk-style clock faces), Cabbage Roses, Herringbone, Dotted Chevrons and Sophisticated (floral pattern). The patterns retail at £14.99 and can be used for card making and embellishments.

Crafter’s Companion T: +44(0)1388 660 930 E: trade@crafterscompanion.co.ukW: www.crafterscompaniontrade.co.uk

A DISCERNING PALETTEWoodware is excited about a new product that Stampendous has brought to the market, which will complement its wonderful range of stamps. Fran Seiford from Stampendous has come up with the Creative Palette, which has so many ways that it can be used, and is brilliant for creating backgrounds.

The addition of stamps from the German mixed media artist Nathalie Kalbach to the Stampendous stable also adds another dimension to the use of the Creative Palette. The palette works well with acrylic paints but also with Colorbox re-inkers, using in conjunction with the Crafter’s Re-inkers adds so many possibilities to mixed media work, especially on Craft Canvas. Remove colours from stamps or stencils on the palette. Retails at £20.00.

Woodware Craft Collection T: +44(0)1756 700 024E: sales@woodware.co.ukW: www.woodware.co.uk

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3D FOAM DESIGNER SHAPES NOW AVAILABLE ONLINEThe popular 3D foam designer shapes from Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L™ have eight new shapes for this season. Create custom embellishments for cards and crafts with glitter, embossing powder and flock and use these on paper, glass, wood, and plastic. These double-sided permanent adhesives are made from 2mm high-density foam, which is both lightweight and fun to use.

It’s so easy, just remove the top liner, apply your favourite medium, and then add the shape to the project, and customise with craft foil, powders, glitter, and flock to match the project. You can also use embossing powder and heat-emboss 3D shapes or mix and match the sets for even more creative options for papercrafting projects.

The entire high quality adhesives including these shapes are ideal for all paper-crafting, card-making and scrapbooking projects and are now available at the brand new European website. To register visit the company ‘s website.

Scrapbook Adhesives by 3L™ T: +1 847 808 1140 E: europe@scrapbook-adhesives.comW: www.scrapbook-adhesives.eu

WAX LYRICALSealing is an art form that is steeped in history, and has served as a personal signature the world over. It has stepped forward into the 21st century and is experiencing an important comeback to the crafting environment. Manuscript Pen Company has formulated a new and exciting but simple way to apply wax seals to correspondence, greeting cards, giftwrap, tags and more.

Specially designed, the Cool Melt wax gun has a wider-set nozzle specifically designed for use with Manuscripts wax sticks, and operates at a low temperature. These seals are perfect for all occasions from producing 200 hand-made wedding invitations to creating dozens of stunning parcel toppers for Christmas gifts, and also for using in jewellery making. In addition to the wax gun, Manuscript offer a wide selection of brass wax seal stamp designs in two sizes – small and large – plus a range of coloured wax sticks.

“At Manuscript we truly feel that the application of sealing is endless but most importantly the process is simple and great fun to do! It’s creative potential is

endless,” says Sophia Luisada at Manuscript Pen Company

Manuscript Pen Company T: + 44 (0)1746 861 236 E: manuscript@calligraphy.co.ukW: www.calligraphy.co.uk

NEW WAY TO GLUEWhen it comes to scrapbooking and stamping, Glue Dots® are the perfect new way to glue. These double-sided adhesive dots bond instantly to virtually any surface including paper, glass, textiles, metal and wood.

Fast, simple and safe to use, Glue Dots are mess free, non-toxic and there’s no drying time. They are available in permanent, poster and removable formulas and because they are easy to use, they’re ideal for all ages and abilities.

A best-selling craft line in the US, Glue Dots has just launched an exciting new-look range of adhesive products and highly space efficient

displays, aimed at the UK craft sector. Displays come in floor standing and flexible modular countertop options as well as hang pack clip strips.

Whether you’re looking for a permanent or removable adhesive solution, Glue Dots has a product to suit all scrapbooking or stamping needs.

For orders and new account opportunities please contact: Dave Angus European Key Account Manager T: +44(0)7584 236 126 E: dangus@gluedots.comW: www.gluedots.com/glue

scrapboo

king and stamping

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ADDICTED TO STAMPING Stamp Addicts has added over 25 new stamp designs to its website since January which, coupled with its new recycled packaging, is proving extremely popular.

With new grunge style stamps, as well as doodles, twiddly bits, birds, cats, flowers, and a new bride and groom design, there’s bound to be something to interest every crafter.

Stamp Addicts is constantly adding new artwork to its blog The Purple Zone to inspire its retailers, and offers online ordering with free carriage on orders over £150. Sarah and Vicky regularly appear on Create & Craft and are also available for in store demonstrations. The company has been retailing rubber stamps for over 21 years and manufacturing for over three years, as well as, organising Stamperama for the past 12 years. If retailers are interested in becoming a Stamp Addicts stockist then do get in touch with them.

Stamp Addicts T: +44(0)1234 855 833 E: enquiries@stampaddicts.co.uk W: www.stampaddicts.co.uk

DISTRESSING DESIGNSPrima’s distressing tool was created for both left and right-handed users, and has a contoured ergonomic grip that will help end hand-fatigue. The interchangeable head covers both rough and fine-edge distressing with two heads that come in each package. A file, razor blade, bone folder, and metal brush are also included in this all-in-one product created by Ingvild Bolme, which is part of our Comfort Craft tool line. This distressing tool is the ideal tool for adding an aged look on your crafting projects.

MORE THAN AN INKPADPrima’s Chalk Edgers aren’t just another cute-looking inkpad. Each easy-to-hold chalk edger comes with a gorgeous soft ink that will add that perfect shabby-chic touch to craft projects. However, you can do more than just ink the edges of your papers with these. Try stamping or painting with them, or mixing with water in a small spritzing bottle to make your own chalky spray. The uses for these iron-shaped inks are only limited by the crafters creativity. Available in dozens of must-have colours (too many to mention), and multiple finishes.

POSTCARD SIZEEveryday Vintage Paintable Cards are vintage goodness in a small, alterable product, and big news in the paper-crafting world at the moment. These sweet cards come in two sizes 3 inch x 4 inch and 4 inch x 6 inch, and have a vintage design already printed on the high-quality specialty paper. Use these as they are or add for an instant aged touch to your project. For more experienced crafters, they can step it up a notch by adding art mediums to them for a custom finish to layouts, cards, tags, home decor, or pocket page albums.

Prima is distributed in the UK by:Kippers HobbyT: +31 38 375 6789 E: info@kippershoppy.nlW: www.kippershobby.nl

StampBox T: +44 (0)1435 830 176 E: enquiries@stampbox.co.ukW: www.stampbox.co.uk

putting your mark on it

www.craftystamps.comTel/Fax: 0131 221 9440

enquiries@craftystamps.comCrafty Stamps, 92 Grove Street, Edinburgh, EH3 8AP

Family run, Edinburgh based rubber stamp company.

Manufacture in-house a wide range of Cling rubber stamps.

Brand New: Dinosaur Stamps

Existing Ranges include: Wedding, Celtic, Celebration, Fantasy,

Scottish, Halloween,

Christmas, Animals, Domestic Goddess

FREE delivery on orders over £75 (net of VAT).

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CLEAR IMPRESSIONSThe fresh, crisp designs of Inkwell Stamps’ clear polymer stamps ensure that stampers of all experience levels can produce excellent results very quickly. The depth of the stamp means complete beginners can produce clean impressions showing all the finest detail, while at the same time, more experienced card makers relish its durability. Use these stamps time after time without deterioration in the image to produce a simple but elegant card very quickly or easy to use when incorporated with different techniques and styles.

Inkwell Stamps has a wide selection of designs on a variety of creative themes, including babies, birthdays, weddings and Christmas. Based in Wales, they also have many of their designs translated into Welsh. There is no minimum order or minimum order quantities required so stocking up couldn’t be easier.

Inkwell Stamps T: +44 (0)1244 660 579 E: lesley@inkwellstamps.co.ukW: www.inkwellstamps.co.uk

OCH AYE THE NOOCrafty Stamps has added new designs to its already best-selling range of Scottish-themed stamps. These stunning stamps are very versatile and include designs like the popular Thistle that measures 8cm x 4.9cm (retails at £3.65), and the Teddy and Decanter that measure approx 6cm x 5.3cm (retails at £4.35 and £3.40 respectively).

Like all the Crafty Stamps rubber stamps, these are Cling mounted, adhere to a laminated storage sheet, and designed for easy use with an acrylic block. The stamps are UK manufactured, nicely-packaged and benefit from the usual storage advantages associated with Cling mounted stamps, and use the same rubber you would expect to see on high quality wood-mounted rubber stamps.

Crafty Stamps T: +44(0)131 221 9440E: enquiries@craftystamps.com W: www.craftystamps.com

putting your mark on it

project

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Step3Clip the excess fabric from the tip of the flag and turn to the right side. Using the eye of a knitting needle, ease the tip of the flag out to form a sharp point. Press the flag and trim away the protruding seam allowance to maintain a straight edge along the top of the flag’s short side. Repeat for all 26 flag pieces (one for each letter of the alphabet).

Step5

as easy as ABC

This project has been reproduced from the project book Mini Bunting by Alistair Macdonald, which features 20 fabulous bunting designs including this fabulous alphabet bunting. Alistair is a successful fashion designer who’s created his own range of textile products and gifts that are popular in the UK and as far as Norway and Japan. Priced at £4.99, this book is part of Twenty to Make series, and is ideal to stock alongside relevant product lines.

Search Press T: +44 (0)1892 510 850E: searchpress@searchpress.com W: www.searchpress.com

MATERIALS NEEDED• Card for templates• Brightly coloured cotton fabrics, two 10 x 12cm pieces per flag• Brightly coloured felt scraps• Assorted coloured embroidery threads• Purple sewing thread• Bright purple bias binding 3m x 2cm Other equipment needed: ruler, pencil, fabric glue, fabric marker, pins, scissors, paper and fabric, iron, sewing machine, computer and printer, large knitting needle and hand sewing needle.

Step4Print the alphabet from a computer using a clear bold font – either upper or lower case. I’ve used a font size of 85. Use this printout as a template for your letters. Cut out each letter in a brightly coloured felt and put to one side.

Take the purple bias binding and, using an iron, carefully press in half lengthwise, matching the edges together. Sandwich each flag between the folded bias and pin into position, spacing evenly approx. 2.5cm apart. Make sure you leave enough bias at the start and finish to allow for ties. Using purple thread, machine-sew the entire bunting together with a medium straight stitch. Stitch as close to the edge as you can. It’s as easy as ABC!

Take a flag and start to sew down one of the long sides using a medium stitch on a sewing machine. A seam

allowance of 1cm has been included so stop stitching approx 1cm from the corner. With the needle in the down position, lift the presser foot and turn and continue stitching down the other long side of the triangle.

Bunting is a great way of creating an exclusive area for displaying products for a special events. Alistair Macdonald shows how to make a simple alphabet bunting

Step 6

project

Step2

Step1Transfer the triangle template on to some card and cut it out. Lay the fabric, right sides together and secure with pins. Place the template on to the cloth and mark all of the edges with a fabric marker. Secure the two layers of the flag with pins and cut round the marked lines.

Using a coloured embroidery thread, which contrasts with the colour of each of the flags, hand stitch a running stitch spaced 5mm apart and running 5mm away from the edge. Glue a felt letter on to each flag just above the pointed tip. Allow to dry completely following the glue manufacturer’s instructions.

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pW: www.searchpress.com

to each flag just above the pointed tip. Allow to dry completely following the glue manufacturer’s instructions.

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a time of discerning crafters Julie Bonnar catches up with Adam Newhouse, Company Director of Hunkydory Crafts, to see how the papercraft market is changing

How has the papercraft market changed since we last caught up with you two years ago, and has it affected the business?The economic downturn has not had the same effect on craft as on many other areas of business. The fact that people are not buying big-ticket items such as cars, or taking expensive holidays, means that they are at home spending more time crafting. Customers are more discerning than previously, and while there are many who buy Hunkydory launches every time, others are putting a little bit more thought into what they actually need to purchase for a particular project.

How important is social media to Hunkydory Crafts for connecting with your customers?Social media is incredibly important to us. It’s strange to think that almost five years ago, it was more or less non-existent, and now it’s one of our most important marketing tools.

Facebook enables us to communicate with over 18,000 people at the click of a button; not only that, these people are actively engaged with our brand and products, which is priceless to our business.

Social media is also a great form of two-way communication between a business and its customers. We glean lots of useful information from our social media, from requests for new collections to any service issues that customers may face.

What are your core best-selling products?We found that our male themed collection, It’s a Man’s World, has been one of our best sellers. We received lots of requests from both trade customers and card makers asking for more male-orientated themes for cards. It seemed to be an area that had been overlooked in the papercraft industry, and it was a fantastic opportunity. We first released the collection in November 2013, and have since re-manufactured the collection three times to keep up with the demand.Adorable Scorable is one of our core product lines, and has always remained one of our best

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selling products. This original cardstock is an absolute essential, allowing crafters to create the perfect score and fold with or against the grain without cracking or feathering. There’s now a range of over 40 colourways, with more added every season.

What new trends are currently coming out on top for 2014?Hunkydory is always keen to move with the times, and we endeavour to make each and every launch very different from the previous one. This year will see this variety continue, with the use of fashion-led shades and the latest images. As the customer is becoming more price-conscious, we will continue to

provide excellent quality products at the very best price. Our new range of Premium Card Kits, retailing at £4.99, will be extended throughout the year to cater for beginner crafters, as well as those who make cards to sell or for charity.

Tell us about the successful Great British Craft Festival that you run each year?The Great British Craft Festival is one of our biggest achievements to-date, and this year we’re so proud to extend the festival to two show dates. Due to the success of our award-winning Stoneleigh Park show last year, we’ve added a new date and venue to our show calendar. We will return to Stoneleigh Park on 9th and 10th August 2014, and open doors for

the first time at Bolton Arena on 31st May and 1st June 2014.

The Great British Craft Festival is a celebration of the very best of British craft, and the event will offer thousands of crafters from across the UK the opportunity to gain tips on all their favourite crafting pastimes and enjoy a chat with the big names in British crafting.

Do you have any plans or new products that you’re looking forward to launching?Floral Fantasia is our newest release, and it’s a celebration of all things bright and beautiful, featuring the prettiest of flowers teamed with stunning vibrant colours. The collection includes innovative set piece cards compromising spinners, easel cards and trellis basket cards, all glazed with our Diamond Sparkles finish. We also feature a fabulous accompaniment of silver and gold accent foiling throughout the kit, and it’s bursting with designs filled with everyone’s favourite flowers. We’re expecting big things from this collection due to its versatility. Floral Fantasia is suitable for all occasions including birthdays, Mother’s Day, get well soon and many more occasions. C

Hunkydory CraftsT: +44 (0)1772 272 575 E: trade@hunkydorycrafts.co.ukW: www.hunkydorycrafts.co.uk

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AQI’ve come across some great products overseas and have started thinking about importing to sell in the UK. How should I go about finding a good supplier abroad and check that they are credit worthy?A lot will depend on whether you’ve already found a supplier who manufacturers the products for other markets or whether you’re taking your own product idea to a factory to produce for the first time. Another consideration will be the country you’re looking to deal with; it’s arguably easier to deal with a developed economy than an emerging market. Recommendation and references from the potential source are always important. If possible talk to existing UK or European customers of the chosen supplier, and ask them about every aspect of their supply relationship, especially quality control, lead-times, product testing and the commercial aspects of how they deal with the supplier.

If you’re looking to find a factory to produce your own designs then the internet is a good place to start researching possible sources of manufacture. Look for companies that already produce products of a similar nature. But do beware that the products being shown may not belong to that source; one CHA-UK member was shocked to find their own product images were being displayed by a Chinese factory claiming that they were the producer, when in fact they’d never dealt in the Far East! This is why recommendations are so important. What additional costs should I be aware of when importing?Shipping costs will obviously be a major consideration wherever the products are coming from. The term Ex Works is used where the buyer will be responsible for shipping costs from the supplier’s factory. Another commonly used term is FOB

or Freight on Board, which means that the supplier will pay to ship the consignment to the port but once on board the ship, the buyer becomes responsible for freight costs.

If the goods are coming from outside the European Union then import duties will usually need to be paid. This is effectively a tax payable to the government depending on the nature of the item. Finally, VAT will normally need to be paid on the items to HMRC before they will be released from the docks. Should I think about using a third party agent to handle the import process and UK customs clearance?Yes, absolutely. Customs clearances, VAT, duties and even the physical collection of goods from the port of entry are best dealt with by someone who’s used to dealing with these sorts of things. One CHA-UK member attempted to do it themselves with a man in a van, and it cost them thousands in additional charges because certain protocols weren’t followed. At CHA-UK, we’ve a number of affiliates that we can introduce members to who can manage the entire process. How important is a contract that contains International Commercials Terms?Inco terms are a useful glossary of meanings for certain aspects of the importation process (an example is FOB). Think of them as a common language in the commercial world, however, in my experience many supply relationships will simply be based purely on the issuing of a purchase order, payment of a deposit and a series of emails. Even if a contract is negotiated and agreed, remember that the parties entering into it will usually be based in different countries and varying laws will apply.

How do I check that the products I import meet UK legal requirements or if they need an import license?If you’re importing products into the EU for sale for the first time then you’re liable to ensure that they comply to relevant EU laws. There are many conformity issues that you’re responsible for making such as general product safety regulations, and also specific product considerations (CE marking for example). CHA-UK members are able to access advice from a number of affiliate companies that can help. How will I be expected to pay for goods from abroad?You may have heard of Letters of Credit – these days these are becoming less popular. More common will be payment up front or 30 per cent deposit with 70 per cent prior to shipping. Regardless, it will be important to make sure that what you’ve paid for is what you’ll receive. I’d always advocate the use of a quality control audit prior to payment to make sure that the goods meet your expectations.

We’ve teamed up with industry experts from CHA-UK to answer your questions about commerce

your questions answered

CHA-UK Craig De Souza is CHA-UK’s Director of UK and European Membership Services, and has 17 years of knowledge and expertise in marketing and advertising. 10 of these years have been in the craft and hobby industry in consumer, trade, online and offline media publishing. He’s the only paid staff member of the CHA-UK and in place to help, assist and support all CHA-UK members as well as gaining new members in the UK and Europe.W: www.cha-uk.co.uk

Finding and importing new products from overseasImporting and exporting goods from outside the UK can help a business find lower priced goods or find new product markets. Craig de Souza demystifies some of the considerations before commencing importing.

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HEAVENLY HAND MADE With six simple yet diverse sewing projects, the Sew & So On collection from docrafts is perfect for giving your furnishings a home made touch. Boasting intricate design and quality, the kits are suitable for sewing beginners or giving as a gift for needlework lovers. Complete with all materials and detailed step-by-step instructions, you just need to add the needle.

The Sweet Cottage tea cosy kit is the perfect afternoon tea in the garden and features a cute appliqué picture of a house and garden. While the Pretty Dreams bunting kit will make a great gift for the keen haberdashery teen or an entry level sewing project for a mother and young daughter with its soft pastel materials and lettering, it can be stitched together to create a beautiful hanging focal point in any child’s bedroom.

Also in this range is the Appliqué Home cushion kit, Repeated Heart cushion kit, and for baking enthusiast, the Love Cupcake hanging heart kit is a great accessory for a kitchen in need of some updating plus Welcome hanging heart kit is set to be a hallway must-have.

All of the kits, which ever is chosen, features gorgeous fabrics, as well as everything eles that is required to finish these cute in-a-box kits. They retail at £8.95.

docraftsT: +44(0)1202 811 000 E: customerservice@docrafts.com W: www.docrafts.biz

make the most of summerRelax and make the most of the longer daylight hours and encourage your customers to learn something new

GET ROLLING!The lighter evenings and warmer weather brings out the home do-it-yourself in crafty types and this creative idea from Rice DK for home decorating is something a little different. The Patterned Paint Roller kit is an ingenious set of roller(s) that makes patterned wallpaper easy and very satisfying to make. Create your own painted patterned creation with the decorative roller by just adding your paint colour to one of the three designs of patterned rollers available and get rolling. Retails at £31.50 and comes complete with extra plain roller. RICE DK T: +45 63 11 35 35 E: europe@rice.dkW: www.rice.dk/en

FINNISH FUNPaaPii Design is an innovative manufacturer of fun and modern DIY kits from Finland. The brand launched in January 2011 by Anniina Isokangas, who started by sharing her crafting exploits on her popular blog. PaaPii was featured among the 100 designers appearing in Bowie Style’s ‘Print & Pattern Kids’ and she received the award of ‘Handicraft Entrepreneur of the Year’ in Finland.

The quirky and amusing animal kits are made in Finland and there is now about 20 different ones in the collection including dogs, cats, deer, owls, foxes and mushrooms in variety of colour and fabric options. The high quality cotton and colours complement each other and animals have names and distinct characters, like Rollo the Cat who is a globetrotter and has travelled to every part of the world.

PaaPii comes from the finnish word ‘paapia’ which means ‘to sleep’ in children’s language. In addition to these DIY kits, this company also offers ready-made toys, fabrics, posters, postcards, pouches, bags and tea towels.

Paapii DesignT: + 358 50 594 1241 E: info@paapiidesign.comW: www.paapiidesign.com

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make the most of summer

MODERN CROCHETFollowing recent market research by CHA, crochet is seen as one of the fastest growing craft trends in the UK with more than one million adult crafters trying crochet for the first time since 2011. To cater for the growing demand DMC offers an exciting collection of fashionable and quality crochet yarns available in a wide selection of colours to create beautiful and original crochet designs. Following the success and popularity of Natura Just Cotton, DMC has introduced its spring summer collection with nine new colourways and a selection of new patterns to complement its existing range of twenty Natura designs.

DMC offers the widest colour choice of crochet yarns in the market place with 60 shades including vibrant and subtle colours that work in harmony with each other allowing for multiple combinations and following the latest fashion trends. The patterns supporting the yarn include stylish and creative designs for ladies fashion, baby, homeware and Amigurumi patterns that use simple crochet stitches with projects appealing to beginners and more experienced crocheters.

DMC Creative World T: +44 (0)116 275 4000 E: sales@dmccreative.co.ukW: www.dmccreative.co.uk

GLITZ AND GLAMOURThis is a great product that we’ve seen several times at trade shows and allows crafters to precisely and accurately decorate card, paper and fabrics with Swarovski crystals. The Crystal pen applicator makes designing your own stylish patterns very easy and customers will keep returning for Swarovski crystal refill cartridges that comes in seven refreshing colours including crystal, light rose, light siam, light amethyst, light sapphire, peridot and light topaz. Once applied to fabrics, these designs are heat resistant up to 100oC when protected with a cloth. For retailers there is also a great range of promotional materials to support the new range from display models, posters and banners.

Craft and Stationery is now a subsidiary company of Knorr Prandell in the UK making it easier for retailers to contact them.

Craft & Stationery UK Ltd T: +44 (0)1462 659 050 E: matt@craftandstationeryuk.co.ukW: www.craftandstationeryuk.co.uk

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NO PREP PAINTSCountry Love Crafts has just launched the new Americana® Decor™ Chalky Finish range that allows those who love crafting for the home to create their own stylish décor items. These stylish paints can be used to paint, decorate, customise, personalise and up-cycle furniture and home décor pieces.

The ultra-matte, chalky finish paint is available in a convenient 236ml size, an amazing 29 vintage, intermixable colours and priming and prepping time is a thing of the past. It adheres to all kinds of surfaces from wood, metal, glass, terracotta, bisque, ceramics, paper, most plastics, canvas and fabric. It’s very easy to use to distress and in just one-coat, it’ll cover most colours and most surfaces. It’s extremely durable too because of its one-of-a-kind cross-linking paint resin system. Use in or outdoors as it has a minimal odour from both paint and wax products. It’s water-based so is easy to clean up. Also included in the range are finishes (waxes and varnishes) and specialty products (crackle medium, image transfer medium and stain blocker).

“This new paint from DecoArt was launched at CHA in January and was voted Top 20 Most Innovative Products

CHA 2014,” comments Jenny Hawkins from Country Love Crafts.

Apply the paint with a soft brush or a roller, and these paints will achieve a lovely velvety matte finish on old or new furniture or a distressed finish for a shabby chic look. Use the crackle, tinted waxes and varnishes that come in the range too for an aged, weathered or timeworn appearance. Perfect for makeovers, up-cycling, modernising, improving, re-decorating, refurbishing, revamping or hand finishing.

Country Love CraftsTel: +44 (0)1235 861 700E: sales@countrylovecrafts.co.ukW: www.countrylovecrafts.com

make the most of summer

FROM TEA TOWEL TO TOYMibo’s organic cotton tea towels doubles up as a simple and fun sewing project. Made in the UK and designed by Madeleine Rogers for Mibo, it takes between 30 minutes to an hour with the aid of a sewing machine to transform any of the tea towels into very sweet little decorative cushions. Just cut out the animal and sew the edges, stuff and stitch up the final open edge. Mibo has recently added an owl, squirrel, penguin, giraffe, tiger, orangutan, and gorilla to the original menagerie of lion or fox. When made up these animals range from 28cm to 40cm in height. More animals will be coming soon, and Mibo is also currently working on a series of children’s books to tell the tales of these delightful characters.

Mibo T: +44 (0)1273 208 888E: info@mibo.co.ukW: www.mibo.co.uk

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SUMMERY DECORATIONSWeddings & Flowercraft specialises in importing a massive collection of flowers, diamantes, trims, feathers, butterflies, birds as well as Christmas berries and millinery flowers. These jewelled and bedecked butterflies are so pretty and made from feathers and mounted on a PVC-cut out base that strengthens the butterflies and avoids wing fractures. The butterflies measure 10cm and are available in both black and white. A box of 12 butterflies includes three different gem layouts giving even more options. The butterflies are mounted on wires that can easily be removed so can be used for decorating a wide range of crafting projects.

Another super summery product is the five-foot unstructured bead garlands (SFJ1890), which are fantastic for decorating cakes, candelabras, wishing trees, lampshade fringes, gardens and much more. There are 15 different colour options available including metallic silver and gold.

Weddings & Flowercraft Ltd T: +44 (0)1394 458 977E: wfcltd@wsl-procurus.com

QUINTESSENTIALLY BRITISHButtonbag has created two new craft kits that capture the quintessential quirky nature of this British company. Sew a Cottage Box and Sew a Teacup set both retail at £10.95, and are suitable for children aged about eight years up as well as craft lovers of all ages.

Like many other Buttonbag kits, the little cottage box cleverly incorporates the packaging into the overall craft project. In this case, the box the kit comes in is cut down (using the dotted lines) to create a sturdy form for the cottage. It’s all hand-sewn and is just the right size for keeping a few sewing essentials or hair clips handy.

While the teacups kit has an easy-to-follow pattern that shows how to make and decorate two cotton and felt teacups. Both kits contain sharp scissors as well as fabrics, needles, pins and thread, which make them incredibly good value. With their distinctive button print packaging, these kits will really stand out on your shelves and grab your customer’s imagination. Wholesale unit price is £4.40 and comes in packs of six. Buttonbag T: +44 (0)208 525 1640E: studio@buttonbag.co.ukW: www.buttonbag.co.uk

SAND MASTERPIECESAs children, we can all remember sprinkling and gluing sand on to pictures and filling up bottles of pretty coloured sand, but sand art has just become sophisticated, and is available for adults too.

CPD has just started distributing a contemporary range of sand art kits and accessories from Spanish manufacturer/designer Arenart. The picture canvas is made up of pre-cut adhesive sheeting, simply peel off the designated area, sprinkle with the colour sand indicated, and watch the picture grow.

Designs available include Gustav Klimt’s – The Kiss, Alfred Gocke’s – Homage to Kandinsky, and a beautiful image of Audrey Hepburn, plus many others. There’s a complete set to get budding sand artists started that includes 26 bottle of sands, a varnish spray, cutter, scalpel and

cleaner brush and instructions in six languages.The Arenart sand art range is supported by a

wide range of accessories from transparent and opaque texture to add relief features, glues, brushes and adhesive sheets to individual tubs and bags of sands in 47 regular and eight metallic colours. Sands come in 38g and 1000g bags, and 75g, 170g and 700g tubs.

The pieces of sand art produced are very simple to do but are of a really high quality, and wouldn’t look out of place in any home.

Creative Products Distribution T: +44 (0)208 953 2143 E: sales@creative-distribution.co.ukW: www.creative-distribution.co.uk

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MAKE A BEE-LINE FOR A NEW SEWING MAGAZINEWith interest in sewing continuing to rise on the back of the BBC’s Great British Sewing Bee series, the time is ripe for a fresh new magazine for keen sewers. Love Sewing is a brand-new launch from Practical Publishing that brings readers the best in inspiring ideas and beautiful new fabrics. On sale from the 24th April, Love Sewing is packed with projects, ideas and inspiration to get you making, mending and creating beautiful things for your home, your family, friends and for yourself, from simple home décor projects to dressmaking and quilting makes.

Inside each issue will be a wide range of sewing projects with photo step-by-step instructions designed to make sewing simple and enjoyable. Whether you’re an enthusiastic novice or more experienced with your machine, the magazine will have expert advice and tips, teaching you new skills and how to master your machine. Love Sewing will come with fabulous free gifts each month too, including exclusive sewing patterns, branded fabrics and much more. If you are interesting in stocking this new magazine, contact Gavin Burrell below.

Practical Publishing T: +44 (0)161 474 6960 E: gavin.burrell@practicalpublishing.co.ukW: www.practicalpublishing.co.uk

STYLISH SUMMER MAKESStylecraft has launched the second phase of its spring/summer season, which is a feast of delicious new colours in existing ranges with plenty of desirable patterns in both knit and crochet await crafters.

Stylecraft has created a wonderful range of homeware patterns in one of its most popular spring summer yarns – Classique Cotton. Included in this range are patterns for techie covers, slippers and some funky cushions to name but a few. The structure and quality of the yarn, together with the colour range, makes it a perfect partner for crochet projects. There are four delicious new shades to add to the range including Heather, Teal, Plum and Wisteria.

Stylecraft T: +44 (0)1535 609 798 E: general@stylecraftltd.co.ukW: www.stylecraft-yarns.co.uk

make the most of summer

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next issue

Latest products from WOW Embossing Powders

Issue 43June/July 2014 Editorial deadline: 8th May, 2014Advertising deadline: 15th May, 2014Published: 30th May, 2014

Not to be missed...Craft Focus is packed full of the newest product launches, industry news and business advice from leading experts in the fi elds of retail, e-commerce and business management

Don’t miss the June/July 2014 edition of Craft Focus

next issue…

Plus……… Essential tools and accessories, and the latest beading and semi-precious gemstone products

EmbossingRaise the stakes with powders, patterns, stamps, moulds and inkpads

Spray your own DIY fashion with trendy colours for fabric

• Catering for kidsStock up on products for the summer holidays• Made in BritainTrendy craft products that fl y the fl ag• A common threadOur helping hand to specialty threads

Painting a picturePaints for every crafting occasion

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Pricing a product that you’ve designed can be one of the most confusing aspects of a handmade business. We take you through the process to avoid making a loss

designed to turn a profitTurning a hobby into a business can be tricky, especially when it comes down to pricing your hand-made designs. The end result must be to make a profit so you’ll need to learn how to be consistent in your pricing strategy.

Here are our top tips on pricing your one-of-a-kind designs:

DETERMINING A BASE PRICEDetermining a base price for a product is a way of ensuring that you won’t sell it at a loss.

You need to work out exactly how much each item costs you to make:• Raw materialsThis is easily calculated and really is a case of bean counting. Make sure you factor in all the materials that you’ve used. Don’t forget to

incorporate the hidden costs that you may have incurred to get the raw materials to you such as postage and packaging.

If you’re not VAT registered, this will also include absorbing any VAT charges that you’ve paid a supplier as you won’t be able to claim back through a VAT return.

• Operating costs These include light, heat, travel, telephone, advertising, website fees, display, tools, workshops, fees for credit cards, hire and rent. This list can be endless and that’s why it’s important that you make it as comprehensive as possible. Hiring a good accountant is the best way to do this is. He/she will start by working out a yearly rate and working it down to a daily rate, and converting to a reasonable percentage for your product.

• Labour chargesIt sounds ridiculous but don’t forget to allocate a salary to pay yourself – you wouldn’t forget to pay your staff. You should pay yourself an hourly rate and then work out how many hours each piece has taken you to make. This can be quite scary where hand-made pieces are involved.

“Determining a base price for a product is a way of ensuring that you won’t sell it at a loss.”

WAYS TO SELL The way you decide to sell will determine what pricing you want to share with others.

business advice

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You will need to have both wholesale and retail prices to quote.

• Wholesale pricesIf you decide to sell to retailers (shops,

galleries and online businesses) you’ll need to set a wholesale price. This is the minimum price that you can accept that still makes it profitable (this usually includes the base price plus a proportion of profit). How much you add for profit is down to you, so do some research to find out what your market will pay and what your competitors are charging.

• Sale or returnSome companies ask for sale or return. This means that you only get paid the wholesale

amount for the piece when they actually sell it. This can affect your cash flow as you may not get paid for several months.

• CommissionSome businesses work on a percentage commission, which works like this: if the retail price for a hand-designed piece is £40. Commission agreed is 25 per cent commission, which equates to £10. You’ll receive £30 (this amount needs to cover all your base costs plus your profit).

Try to keep your wholesale price a secret from retail customers – this is between you and your balance sheet.

• RetailWhat is a fair retail price? Commonly retail pricing is at least double the wholesale price. However there's no hard and fast rule – you may well think that when you’ve worked out your costs and applied your profit that your designs seem very expensive.

Quite often designers don’t value their work as highly as the general public is willing to pay for it. Low prices can work against you and result in lower sales, and also attract the wrong type of customer – for example, people looking for a bargain rather than exclusive pieces.

Selling at unrealistic prices whether high or low doesn’t do you or your business any favours. The perceived value is what customers are willing to pay. This depends on how individual your customer thinks the piece is, how beautifully designed it is, and how much they want it! A customer spending £40 on a hand-made piece of jewellery is more likely to feel they’ve something original and quite special than paying £10.

REDUCING COSTS If you feel your designs are still too expensive, there are several ways to trim your costs. You could modify your designs slightly by using less expensive raw materials, reducing the quality slightly or choosing less expensive packaging.

“Selling at unrealistic prices whether high or low doesn’t do you or your business any favours. The perceived value is what customers are willing to pay. This depends on how

individual your customer thinks the piece is, how

beautifully designed it is, and how much they want it!”

CONCLUSIONCorrect pricing is not only important to you and your businesses profitability but also to building good relationships with your customers and within the handmade crafting industry. Reputation for correct pricing is key to being profitable. C

CThe UK’s leading magazine

for the craft industry

www.craftfocus.com

To advertise here telephone Tracy Voice

on +44 (0)1376 535 618

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cross-stitching

counting on cross-stitchCreative ideas for contemporary stitching

WEDDING SEASON Love is certainly in the air at Bothy Threads, as it introduces a new cross-stitch design from Kim Anderson entitled Love Birds, to add to its other two popular designs Love Heart and Love Tree. Love Birds is on 14 hpi white Aida, and measures 20cm x 25cm. It comes with sparkling metallic threads, beads and appliqué flowers, and retails at £24.99.

Also ready for the wedding season is two pretty samplers that can be personalised to make a really special keepsake for the happy couple. Vintage Wedding is the newest design from Helen Smith (retailing at £24.99) and Wedding Celebration from Amanda Loverseed on 14 count vintage blue Aida measuring 23cm x 30cm.

Bothy Threads T: +44 (0)844 800 0221 E: info@bothythreads.comW: www.bothythreads.com

DETAIL IN MINIATUREVictoria is the most recent addition to John Clayton’s Elegance in Miniature range. This collection has taken the head and shoulders from the original Elegance ladies and reduced them in size to produce these sweet miniatures. However, no detail has been lost during this miniaturisation process, and they’re sure to appeal to stitchers who want something that is a little quicker to make. Victoria measures 12.5cm x 13.5cm, and is available as a full kit on 14ct aida or 27ct evenweave. The kits contain Zweigart fabric, DMC stranded cottons sorted onto numbered cards, needle, clear charts and instructions.

Heritage Crafts LimitedT: +44 (0)1889 575 256 E: enquiries@hcrafts.comW: www.hcrafts.com

LOVE LILIESFlower and cross-stitch lovers will adore this beautiful summery triptych of three lily designs from Sue Hill. They can be made to display separately or they will make a stunning picture hung together. They retail at £9.58 and measure 10cm x 21cm each. Available from Heritage Crafts as full kits on 14ct aida or 27ct evenweave.

Heritage Crafts LimitedT: +44 (0)1889 575 256 E: enquiries@hcrafts.comW: www.hcrafts.com

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CONTEMPORARY IN DESIGNDMC works with renowned artists, popular licenses and expert designers to ensure stitchers get the very best of what’s new for cross-stitch. And to keep on top of the current trends, its new needlecraft collection offers more than 50 new stylish and contemporary cross-stitch designs. Fresh and colourful, these kits include

contemporary birds and modern pop art as well as an exciting collection of floral designs. All kits contain high quality DMC stranded cotton thread, world-renowned for its colour, shine and ease of use.

Also brand new, the Contemporary Sampler cross-stitch kits are modern designs, which are stitched on 14-count Aida with DMC stranded cotton. Samplers are always popular amongst stitchers, and this set of four designs include quirky and humorous sayings that everyone can relate to. The designs reflect popular pastimes with the current interest in baking and sewing, the two larger designs (RRP £26.99) while the two smaller ones retail at £16.99

DMC Creative World T: +44(0)116 275 4000 E: sales@dmccreative.co.ukW: www.dmccreative.co.uk

counting on cross-stitch

SWEET STITCHESThese pocket-sized Stitchlets retail at just £2.29, making them a great way of introducing crafters to a new craft on a small budget. Mouseloft has recently launched 12 fresh designs to its brilliant 80+ range of counted cross-stitch kits. New additions include a VW Beetle, a golfing teddy and a bird by a birdhouse, shown here, and other designs like Trevor the rabbit, a camper van, meerkats and a baby owl.

The Tiddlers range retails at £1.39, and offers a slightly simpler collection of designs that will appeal to young and old alike. These cute kits include an elephant, a cupcake and a penguin, and are joined this year by fresh summertime additions of hedgehog, happy whale, contented cat and the new special occasion Graduation teddy (retails at £2.89 with cards).

Mouseloft T: +44(0)1477 533 566 E: mice@mouseloft.co.ukW: www.mouseloft.co.uk

Fun and colourful children’s kits on 6 and 11 count Aida

Birdhouse Bunting, stitched on 14 count white Aida

Card kits for all occasions on 14 count Aida

See our website for information on our wide range of kits for childrenand adults or contact us on 01568 780 183 / info@fatcatcross-stitch.co.uk

www.fatcatcross-stitch.co.uk

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IT’S KIDS STUFF!Fat Cat Cross Stitch has recently expanded its range of children’s counted cross- stitch kits and it’s highly popular range of card kits. Each of the children’s kits come complete with everything required to stitch a bold, bright fun design whether it be on six-count Binca with tapestry wool for the youngest stitcher or 11-count Aida with stranded cotton for older children.

Card kits are supplied with good quality aperture cards and plenty of thread and fabric to complete the design on a 14-count Aida for a wide selection of occasions. Each kit comes with chart, key, instructions, fabric, thread, needle and a full colour photo on the front cover.

The children’s kits have full colour charts while the card kits have large, clear black and white charts. Be sure to check Fat Cat’s new website for other designs including its ever-popular Striped Cat or email them for a copy of the latest catalogue.

Fat Cat Cross Stitch T: +44(0)1568 780 183 E: info@fatcatcross-stitch.co.ukW: www.fatcatcross-stitch.co.uk

WHAT’S TRENDING We asked Jenny Dixon, Editor-in-chief of Needlecrafts at Future Publishing, what the current trends were in this sector.

“Cross stitchers have always enjoyed adding charms and

buttons to their work, but now kits are

offering the chance to incorporate things like appliquéd fabrics too. The current trend for cross over crafts is really exciting. At Cross Stitcher, we’ve always encouraged stitchers to be a bit

more adventurous with their fabric choices, so it’s pleasing to see so many more

colours and even printed backgrounds now available. All in all, it’s a pretty exciting time

to be a stitcher!”

counting on cross-stitch

http://crossstitcher.themakingspot.com.

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subscribewant to subscribe?Craft Focus magazine is the leading trade publication for the craft industry and is available FREE of charge to our registered readers. Published six times a year, Craft Focus contains all the recent product launches, latest news, and details about all the major craft events.

Visit www.craftfocus.com or fill in the form below and return it to:Craft Focus, KD Media Publishing Ltd, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP or fax it to us at +44 (0) 1376 514 555.

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It’s essential that SMEs know their duties as an employer to avoid fines and legal action

changes to employment lawThe national minimum wage is currently £6.31 per hour, although the government has recent suggested that this may soon be raised by a further 50p. UK small business owners who fail to pay its employees the minimum wage will now face government fines of up to £20,000, according to reports. Previously, SME employers who failed to pay minimum wage were required to pay underpaid wages in full including a fine of 50 per cent of unpaid wages up to a maximum of £5,000. However, in a bid to scare employers into action, this figure will now rise to 10 per cent.

The national minimum wage plays an important role in supporting employees in the UK, and while many SME employers will not intentionally underpay its employees, it can be difficult to stay on top of the ever-changing employment laws. It’s not only keeping up-to-date with minimum wage that baffles small employers, but other issues relating to Employment Law continue to take up precious time and cash that could be used elsewhere.

Quality Solicitors revealed results of an online poll that highlighted what employers are concerned about:• Termination of employment was the number one issue currently experienced by SMEs. The research found that the second most prolific legal issue for small and medium-sized businesses is making redundancies.• In addition, 65 per cent of SMEs often left it too late to seek legal advice on compliance issues and 45 per cent of them leave insufficient time to resolve legal matters due to other business pressures.• The main reason for SMEs finding these issues challenging, according to the research, is that in 85 per cent of cases, they don’t know or understand what their legal requirements and obligations are and 45 per cent lack awareness of changes in legislation.

Employment Law 2014 update:• From April 2014, statutory maternity, paternity and adoption pay increase. The rate of statutory maternity, paternity and adoption rate will increase to £138.18 per week.• From Spring 2014, a health and work assessment and advisory service is to be introduced, offering free occupational health assistance for employees, employers and GPs. The service can provide an occupational

health assessment after four weeks of sickness absence. Further information is available from www.gov.uk.• Provisions to be made sometime during 2014 for more flexible parental leave to enable parents both male and female to share the care of a child during its first year. From October 2014 – and yet to be confirmed – the government proposes to extend the right to request flexible working to all employees and remove the current statutory procedure for considering requests. Instead employers will be required to consider all requests in a reasonable manner, and employers will have the right to refuse requests on business grounds.• By the end of this year, many employers could be affected by the auto-enrolment pensions provision that started in October 2012. Employers with more than 350 and less than 499 staff will be required to offer a qualifying pension scheme to its staff.

A helpful online employment manual is available to ActSmart subscribers. To view a full list of services designed to help boost your sales, reduce operating costs and grow business, visit the ActSmart website. Join the ActSmart community for free by visiting: www.actsmart.biz/membership/my-actsmart T: +44 (0)845 618 7256 E: info@actsmart.biz W: www.actsmart.biz

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up & co

ming

How did the business come about?My father, Martin started the business in 1982. Originally the intention was to make and supply to lampshade manufacturers. Things really changed about 14 years ago when the bottom fell out of the indigenous lampshade market with the start of cheaper mass imported, inferior quality lampshades from the Far East. Over 90 lampshade manufacturers went out of business during the next decade, and this led to less choice on the high street and a greater loss of key lampshade manufacturing skills.

We identified that people still wanted to have one-of-a-kind and quality shades, so we updated our machinery and product offering accordingly. It’s been excellent and customers tell me that, what was a hobby is now a business venture thanks to our products. This is always nice to hear, and makes all the hard work worthwhile.

Who had the brainwave of selling materials for crafters to make their own lampshades?Fellow Director (and friend) David Little is an incredible self-motivated person who

never stops working on developing new products. We call him Danger Dave (so do many of our customers) as he’s often heard saying “Where’s the danger in that!” We’re all incredibly passionate about what we do, and now our professional kits are inspiring creative crafters, DIY enthusiasts and supporting craft workshops to get making lampshades.

Lampshade making is a key trend at the moment. Why is it so popular?I think the main reason is that the proliferation of imported products has greatly reduced choice on the high street, particularly large drum style shades that don’t stack well and are expensive to import. Crafters and homemakers love the idea that they can make their own professional, flame retardant lampshade with farbics that they want to use. Needcraft can also offer a customising service to print suitable fabric with a customer’s own shade designs.

Lampshades are currently a stylish decorative item, and a great fashion statement. The growing crafting trend has led to a huge growth in social lampshade making workshops. Lampshade making wasn’t accessible before, but our kits have taken an industrial process, and made it possible for crafters and creative people to make something really beautiful, original and practical with a professional finish.

What are the main products that you offer?We’ve set out to be the one-stop shop for anybody who wishes to make lampshades. Our drum kits are incredibly popular, and we recently added a range of British manufactured, unfinished, wired and tested beech lamp bases. These are available in cost-effective trade packs, which gives customers the chance to offer the complete lampshade making experience, and bases painted to match.

Many of our customers that stock Annie Sloan paints, Linterior Designs and the Curtain

let there be light!Lampshade making has become a popular stand-alone craft. We catch up with James Dannell, Director of Needcraft, which supplies everything to turn crafters into a new generation of lampshade manufacturers

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and Blind Makers friendly forum are working with these already.

You recently showed these lampshade making kits on the Bright Sparks Pavilion at the Craft, Hobby + Stitch this year. How did that go?It was amazing – absolutely the best show we’ve exhibited at so far, and we’ve pre-booked for the Autumn show at ExCel in September and for spring 2015 too.

To be part of the Bright Sparks Pavilion was a great opportunity, and we were eager to show retailers how great these products are. Visitors to the stand were so enthusiastic, and it was lovely to meet some of our existing customers for the first time. We received some super orders from new customers too.

Tell us about the lampshade kits?The lampshade kits contain everything needed to make a professional lampshade with a textile or paper of your choice. The kits are made in the UK by us and include quality components, are user-friendly, enjoyable to make and some say addictive. The kits are a product for everyone and we think this is why our retail partners are enjoying so much success with them.

Need Craft has a special lampshade workshop pack so that course providers can offer this option and add to their teaching schedule. What’s in this pack?The workshop pack is the most cost effective way to purchase our most popular lampshade kit – 30cm drum. The pack contains the un-boxed components to make 30 of these sized shades at an incredible price. We’ve a special offer where we include a free fabric pack that includes 50 pieces of quality fabrics including silk – all the pieces have already been cut to the correct size.

We’ve also included details of the customer’s lampshade making workshops on our workshop page website, and our sister company Needprint will print the course provider a 6 inch x 2 inch outdoor advertising banner to advertise its workshop free of charge. We’re all about working with our trade partners to make sure they maximise their sales.

What benefits can you offer retailers that would like to stock your products?As a manufacturer of our own products, there’s plenty of margin there for a retailer with three

revenue streams; retailers can make and sell the lampshades; hold lampshade- making workshops; or opt to sell the kit version that we can supply in plain boxes (should our retail partners wish). We can supply mixed trade and workshop packs and now retailers can stock all of its popular sizes with minimal investment.

Instilled by Martin when he first set us up, providing excellent customer service is important to us, and is our ethos. The future is extremely positive for the craft industry, and we hope that our lampshade making products will be a big part of this.

NeedcraftT: +44 (0)1992 700 311 E: sales@needcraft.co.uk W: www.needcraft.co.uk

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up & coming