CRAFT, HOBBY + STITCH WIN!

www.craftfocus.com
Issue 11 February/March 2009
CRAFTFOCUS
www.craftfocus.com
MAGAZI N E
RIS
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SMA e focus
W s top
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Cause for Celebration
Charity craft tie-ups
PAPERCRAFTS
Your essential guide
CRAFT, HOBBY
+ STITCH
Exclusive show preview
Dream Themes
Easter and Mother’s Day
WIN!
Craft sets from Ellison
PLUS
Industry News
Retailer Interview
Q&A Technology
24
February/March 2009 issue 11
Group Editor
Demelza Rayner
+44 (0)1376 535 609
editor@craftfocus.com
Editorial Assistant
Jennifer Kettle
+44 (0)1376 535 612
jenniferk@craftfocus.com
Contributor
Sarah Reeve
+44 (0)1376 535 614
sarahr@craftfocus.com
Sales Manager
Mark White
+44 (0) 1376 535 606
markw@craftfocus.com
Advertising Sales
Tracy Voice
+44 (0)1376 535 618
tracyv@craftfocus.com
Design Manager
Vicky Longman
+44 (0)1376 535 616
design@craftfocus.com
Graphic Designers
Sarah Barnes
Sophie Farage
Laura Perry
Steve Mckea
+44 (0)1376 535 616
Production Manager
Stuart Weatherley
Kline Davis Limited
Broseley House
Newlands Drive
Witham, Essex CM8 2UL
www.craftfocus.com
Cover courtesy of Coats Crafts
ISSN 1758-0900
Craft Focus is solely owned, published and
designed by Kline Davis 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 reflect
those of the publisher. Craft Focus is published
six times a year. Subscription rates for overseas
readers are £40 per annum (incl. p+p), Cheques
should be made out to Kline Davis Limited
and sent to Craft Focus @ Broseley House,
Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2UL.
Craft Focus magazine is proud to be
associated with and supporters of:
contents
regulars
27
industry news
6
We take a look at the hottest news stories about
brand spanking new
14
Spotlight on the latest product launches
competition
19
Win one of three prize bundles, worth a total of around
£700, courtesy of Ellison
business link
20
Top tips on how to keep strong in the current climate
retailer interview
70
Hazel Hopkinson, owner of Blue Haze Arts & Crafts,
talks to Craft Focus about her successful retail outlet
q&a technology
84
Our experts answer all your retail queries
up and coming
98
Homespun Ideas was set up by three friends with
a simple desire to bring back the community feel of
crafting. We speak to founder Maggie Yeaman to find
out more
profile
profile 1
58
We speak to Crafter’s Companion to find out about
their diverse range of craft products
profile 2
78
Crafty Horizons reveal all about its success to-date
features
make a memory
23
Help your customers celebrate the birth of a
baby with these cute craft lines
hop to it
Fun Easter themed products
interview with David Bennett
29
We find out about changes to this year’s Craft,
Hobby and Stitch International
craft trends 2009
66
Stephanie Weightman reveals her top tips for
the year ahead
retail technology
68
Improve business efficiency in tough times
cause for celebration
75
How charitable crafts can create a loyal
customer base
mother’s day
81
Capitalise on this special crafting occasion
shows
ichf preview
33
We reveal the hot new products at the UK’s
leading craft trade event
61
cha summer show
73
With a new venue, this popular USA-based
event promises to be the best yet
smac paris
87
Exclusive insight into this top European craft
trade show
christmasworld
MEDIA SUPPORTER
ANTI COPYING IN DESIGN
24
90
Four trend themes for the year ahead
special feature
perks of papercrafts
61
We discover what’s new in this buoyant
market sector
craftfocus 3
It's Show Time
While there is no denying that the
past year has been a challenging
one for retailers, independent craft
retailers should take heart from the
fact that more consumers than ever
are now turning towards craft as
a practical and enjoyable pastime.
Therefore, it is vital that the product
offering in-store is continually on-trend, fresh,
exciting and diverse. One of the easiest ways of
securing new stock is by visiting Craft, Hobby +
Stitch International at the NEC, Birmingham, where
hundreds of new craft ranges will be launched. To
get a sneak preview of what you can expect from
the event, turn to page 33 where we run down
the hot new products on display. Aside from the
exhibition, it’s also worth making time to attend
one of the many workshops and seminars that
take place over the duration of the show. From an
Elusive Images masterclass to a seminar on Biting
Back at the Credit Crunch, there really is something
for everyone.
Another craft trade show well worth a visit is SMAC 2009, taking
place in Paris this March. With an excellent international presence
and plenty of new product lines, it might be just the place to snap up
something special.
As ever, our experts are on hand to offer their advice on all
aspects of running a successful craft retail business. First up is Roma
Bhowmick from Business Link, who reveals some smart ways to keep
your business strong in the current economic climate. There’s also
some advice from Beth Scott on getting your customers to keep
spending – not as easy as it once was.
Finally, we have a terrific competition, where three lucky retailers
will each win a craft bundle from Ellison. Enter through our website
www.craftfocus.com.
Good luck and enjoy reading
9ZbZaoV
Demelza Rayner
Group Editor
craftfocus 5
industry news
We take a look at new developments in the craft market
In need of a good Soak
Originally created as a care product for knitted items in 2005, Soak™ has since evolved into a premium
wash for all delicates, including but not limited to: hand knits and handmade quilts, cashmere, silk, linen and
wool, embellished clothing, baby clothes and blankets, and stuffed animals.
Soak’s no-rinse formulation is quick and easy to use for hand-washing (takes approximately 15 minutes)
and does not leave a soap residue due to the low suds formula. Soak is gentle on fibres and hands, and
leaves washables clean, soft and smelling great! Soak is also suitable for machine washing, including energy
efficient machines.
Ideal for crafters, Soak can be used as a handy spot cleaner as well. The biodegradable formulation uses
no dyes or harsh ingredients (phosphate-free), but rather uses skin-grade ingredients so gentle it's possible
to take a bath in it. Additionally all bottles are recyclable and printed with a water-based ink for complete
guilt-free, eco-friendly answer to all your wash-time needs. For further information, simply telephone
+44 (0)116 271 0033.
Ellison reports successful 2008
It’s all change at Hobby Habit
Trade customers can now buy online at Hobby Habit’s brand-newlook website www.hobbyhabit.co.uk.
The Stamford-based company’s new online facility means that
trade customers can now buy a range of products with a mix and
match order available. Indeed, products are available from FGS,
Sandra Kuck, Le Suh, Studio Light as well as exclusive lines from TV
demonstrator/designer, Nancy Watt.
As well as the new website, Hobby Habit also has a new logo
and a new marketing manager, Bryony Barton-Carroll. Bryony has
handled the marketing for a range of companies both UK and
Worldwide and brings with her a wealth of experience that will
see the company raise its profile and give its customers new and
innovative products whilst still carrying the vast range of stock that
crafters so love.
“This is a great step forward for a well-established and respected
company and I’m really pleased to be a part of the team. The
website was a challenge as there are literally hundreds of products
to get on there – and we’re still adding,” explained Bryony.
Hobby Habit owner, Gill Grant, continues, “If anyone wants a
particular product but can’t see it on the website, do contact us as it
probably just means that we’ve not managed to get it uploaded yet!”
Hobby Habit also has a new, unique range from the designer
and TV demonstrator, Nancy Watt, and will be launching further
unrivalled ranges in the near future.
For more information, call Hobby Habit on +44 (0)1780 489 489
or visit www.hobbyhabit.co.uk
6 craftfocus
Ellison has seen great growth in the European market this year with new
territories taking on the Sizzix brand. “The market is thriving and we
have seen great leaps in paper crafts especially Scrapbooking and Card
Making. We have been working hard to grow our portfolio of licensed
designers, (watch this space for developments in the new year) which
is helping to lower the demographic of crafters and get more people
involved in craft.” Because of Ellison’s unique Steel Rule Blade dies (Bigz,
Originals and new XL dies), the firm is seeing more and more home
décor projects being created with beautifully embellished cushions and
curtains and other items enabling crafters to produce a whole new level
of professional looking personalised homeware. The Mover and Shaper
dies have also revolutionized card making enabling crafters to create their
own card blanks and envelopes with apertures just where they would
like them and of a shape they choose. For details visit www.sizzix.co.uk
Autumn Fair gets crafty
This September sees the launch of new show sectors, Craft It Yourself
and British Crafts, at Autumn Fair International 2009. Group Exhibition
Director, Louise Young, said: “Not since the heyday of Blue Peter has
there been such a surge in home hobby and craft. The current fashion is
for items that look hand made and are not ubiquitous. This trend crosses
all age groups.”
The new Craft It Yourself and British Crafts sections will provide
an excellent platform for craft and home hobby suppliers to sell to
independent retailers, department stores, online and mail order outlets –
all keen to develop and expand their offering to the increasing numbers
of craft consumers. For further details, visit www.autumnfair.com
news&events
DMC taken over by
Bernard Krief Consulting
As of 29th December 2008, the Paris
Commercial Court awarded a transfer plan of
DMC to Bernard Krief Consultants. This means
business as usual for DMC in the UK going
forward. This is a positive solution for DMC
Creative World as it is a strong business with an
important core product and a promising future.
Call +44 (0)116 275 4000 or visit the website
www.dmccreative.co.uk for further details.
Beardie Designs secure
deal down under
Beardie Designs is now a distributor of The Gift
of Stitching, an online Australasian magazine. As a
result, the firm can supply retailers with one year
subscription packs. This will display in store as
an attractive half letter package which includes a
10 digit code. The customer purchases the pack
from the shop and then, on their own computer,
enters the 10 digit code on their website to
redeem their one year subscription. Once the
customer has entered the code, they will have
instant access to the latest issue. Well known
designers that are featured in the magazine
include Chatelaine-Martina Weber, Rosewood
Manor and Little House Needleworks.
Beardie Designs is also able to supply retailers
with a 2007 back issue CD and a 2006 back
issue CD, each one with a recommended retail
price of 16 euros. For further details visit the
website at www.beardiedesigns.nl
Retailers focus on efficiency and multichannel
sales in 2009
With a very tough year in store, retailers are looking to drive efficiency into their business
as well as bring in revenue where they can, so good stock control and selling on the
internet is top of the priority list for many.
Intelligent Retail, the multichannel retail company, is seeing strong demand for their
systems. The award-winning system allows selling across shop and web channels with
central stock control. Retailers find the system often completely pays for itself within the
first year.
David Mackley, MD said: “With a multichannel system it’s easier and cheaper than people
think to run a shop and a website together. We have introduced a pay as you go package
where, with a low weekly rate a retailer can put their stock on once and sell across
multiple channels, including eBay which is very popular as a channel for shifting old stock
and bringing cash back into the business. In addition, the system can help make a dramatic
reduction in stock costs.”
Intelligent Retail has made available free of charge a new white paper; ‘Top seven ways
to improve business efficiency’. Retailers can email enquiries@intelligentretail.co.uk or call
on +44 (0)845 680 0126 for a copy.
Hobbycraft dodges the downturn
HobbyCraft, the UK’s largest dedicated chain of arts and crafts superstores is bucking
the negative retail trend and reporting significant growth despite the economic
downturn, according to the company’s 2008 financial report.
Demonstrating the value of creativity when the financial squeeze is on,
HobbyCraft’s turnover for the year to February 2008 grew by £7.7m to £62.1m and
pre-tax profits increased by 10%, to £3.2m.
Now with 38 stores across the UK employing over 1,200 staff, HobbyCraft has
grown further still in 2008, actively pursuing exciting expansion plans while major
high street brands fight for survival as the recession bites. The year ahead is set to
be equally dynamic, with the company’s 39th store due to open in Edinburgh in the
spring, another in Peterborough later in the year and others in the pipeline.
Chris Crombie, Chief Executive of HobbyCraft is confident that crafting will
continue to thrive in 2009: “Few businesses are entirely ‘recession proof ’ and there
can be no denying that the retail environment is tough at the moment.”
He explains: “We have a loyal base of customers who know they can find what
they need to pursue their hobby at our stores. Not only that, but the trend
towards ‘make-it-yourself ’ and customisation, means that more new customers are
discovering HobbyCraft than ever before, with recent Christmas ranges showing a
like for like sales increase of 17.4%.
craftfocus 7
Silverdale
DESIGNS
To celebrate the launch of the exciting new children’s range Sakura are offering
a free children’s table & chairs with selected orders!
Stand Numbers
E66, E68 & G07
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Marking World, the Sakura pen distributors also bring you Joanna Sheen, Crafters
Companion, “Just” craft selections, Craft with Stephanie, & many more exciting
papercraft products. Visit Marking World to see the latest products & techniques
demonstrated along with many fabulous show offers, competitions & information
about the innovative new “The Gelly Roll Club” – aimed at the consumer as well as
driving your retail sales.
J`q\jXe[i\Zfdd\e[\[]iXd\j`q\jXi\feflin\Yj`k\
nnn%j`cm\i[Xc\$[\j`^ej%Zfd
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N\Xcjfjlggcpkfk_\kiX[\$[\kX`cjXmX`cXYc\]ifd
'(0+)$.+..'*%
Tel: 01698 574567
01698 574568
Fax: 01698 574569
e-mail: sales@markingworld.co.uk
website: www.markingworld.co.uk
Marking World Limited, Units 60 & 61, Evans Business Centre,
Belshill Industrial Estate,Belgrave Street, Bellshill, ML4 3NP
news&events
BTHA announces 2009
Best Toy Shop Awards
finalists
The British Toy & Hobby Association recently
announced the 21 finalists for the 2009 Best
Toy Shop Awards. The shortlist is:
Best independent, Scotland and the North:
• Andrew Atkinson
• Little Treasures
• Mercer and Son
Best independent, the Midlands, Wales and
East Anglia:
• Fenwicks - Williams & Griffin (Colchester)
• Langleys Toymaster
• Moons 4 Toys
Best multiple, the Midlands, Wales and East
Anglia:
• The Entertainer (Birmingham)
• The Entertainer (Cardiff)
• Westgate Stores
Best multiple, Scotland and the North:
• Asda – (Pudsey Leeds)
• The Entertainer (Bolton)
• The Entertainer (Sheffield)
Best independent, Ireland (North and
South):
• BANBA Toymaster
• Clarkes Toymaster
• Mulveys Toymaster
Best independent, South of England:
• Bentalls (Kingston Upon Thames)
• Boswells
• Toys and Tuck
Best multiple, South of England:
• Argos
• Asda (Swindon)
• The Entertainer (Bristol)
The winners of the prestigious Best Toy
Shop Awards were announced at the annual
Toy Industry Awards Dinner at London’s
02 Arena on 29th January 2009. The gala
dinner is held each year to coincide with
Toy Fair – the UK’s only dedicated toy, game
and hobby exhibition – and is organised by
the BTHA in association with the TRA (Toy
Retailers Association).
The TRA presented their supplier of the
year awards on the night and the BTHA
presented nine retail awards, including the
eight categories above plus a special award
to the overall Best Toy Shop. This year for the
first time the judging of the Best Toy Shop
Awards was led by the BTHA Council.
New magazine launch
for knitters
The latest magazine launch from Future, The
Knitter, hit the news stands in early January
2009 with a cover price of £5.99.
Aimed at the more experienced knitter, The
Knitter looks at trends from the catwalk each
month, interpreting the trends into knitwear
patterns, and the first issue examines one of
the key looks for the winter season - cable
and lace.
A whole host of knitwear designers will be
providing patterns for The Knitter, including
Jean Moss, Sasha Kagan, Louisa Harding,
author of Modern Classics: Twenty Handknit Classics for the Modern Woman,
and designers from the Rowan design studio.
The 100 page glossy magazine will also include 15 exclusive patterns,
competitions, news pages, a column written by renowned US knitting bloggers
‘Mason Dixon’, and much more.
Juliet Bernard, Editor for The Knitter said: “I’ve been dreaming of a magazine
like The Knitter for a while – one with beautiful, original patterns and inspiration
from world-class designers – a knitting magazine with a touch of lifestyle and
fashion about it. Each month we will home in on a trend from the catwalk and
base some of our patterns around it to give The Knitter a very contemporary
feel. As a knitter I can’t believe my luck that I get to work on such a fashion
forward title!”
The Knitter will be Future’s second knitting title and continues the
development of the company’s craft portfolio, as publishers of sector leaders
PaperCraft Inspirations, Scrapbook Inspirations, Simply Knitting and CrossStitcher.
Craft traders sought for The
Apple Market
London’s Covent Garden is home to an amazing array
of retail offerings with established fashion labels, luxury
lifestyle brands and boutique food and drink outlets
all making their home within the historic marketplace.
Included in this mix is the iconic Apple Market, which is
currently on the lookout for new traders.
The Apple Market was established in 1980 with a
vision to sell the best in local, British craft. In recent
times there has been an influx of products that are mass
produced and of lesser quality; something that Covent
Garden is in the process of rectifying.
Working with the current traders, Covent Garden is
set to return the market to its traditional roots as one
of the best craft and design markets in the country, only
selling products that are made and sourced from entirely
within the UK.
An Apple Market Craft Council (AMCC) has been
established with the view to ensuring all goods being
sold are of high quality and are hand-made and sourced
from within the UK, with a Product Selection Board that
is responsible for reviewing all applications. For further
details, call Elizca Heitzer on +44 (0)207 420 5855 or
email theapplemarket@coventgardenmarket.co.uk
craftfocus 9
industry news
J.A. Davis
G. Bender
M. Hill
M. McCooey
CHA announces 2009 Board of
Directors Officers
The Craft & Hobby Association (CHA) Board of Directors
recently announced the newly elected CHA Board officers for
the 2009 term. Named were: Michael McCooey, President and
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Plaid Enterprises, as Board
Chairman; Larry Olliges, President of Dees’ Crafts as Vice Chair;
and Jane Anne Davis industry consultant as Secretary. Michael
McCooey replaces Jim Scatena, CEO of FloraCraft. Scatena will
remain on the CHA Board as Past Chair. The new CHA Board
officers were elected during the Board of Directors Meeting and
will serve one-year terms that began at the time of voting.
“The new CHA Board officers provide a broad scope of
experience and an unmatched wealth of knowledge in the
industry,” explained Steve Berger, CHA CEO. “Their collective
expertise will be quite useful in moving CHA and the craft and
hobby industry forward in the coming year.”
For more information about CHA visit www.craftandhobby.org
Help for Businesses Managing Late
Payment From Customers
In response to the changing economic climate, Business Link
has been enhancing the tools and guides on its website to help
businesses manage and prevent late payment. Business Link has
also worked with the Institute of Credit Management to compile
guidelines to give businesses of all sizes and sectors practical help
and advice to keep a positive financial outlook during the current
economic downturn.
Lord Mandelson, Secretary of State for Department for
Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, welcomed the help:
“Cash flow is critical to business survival - and one of the top
reasons for business failure. Business Link has a crucial role to play
in providing support and information for businesses wishing to
better manage their cash flow. These guides provide practical and
speedy advice to help businesses help themselves through these
difficult times.”
Interactive tools and guides can be found at the handy website
www.businesslink.gov.uk/finance. The ICM Managing Cashflow
Quick Checklist and Top Tips are available at the website
www.businesslink.gov.uk/businesshelp. Alternatively, telephone
+44 (0)845 600 9 006 to speak to a local Business Link adviser.
10 craftfocus
2008 Creative Play Awards
announced
Following much testing,
evaluating and careful
consideration, the organisers
of the only awards scheme
specifically for creative
play products, are
proud to name the craft
kits and role-play toys
which scored top marks
and have been given a
Creative Play Award.
Creative Steps magazine
is targeted at anyone
caring for young children,
from 0 to 11 years-old, providing fun
creative play and activity ideas designed to engage, educate
and entertain.
Commenting on the awards, editor, Dawn Hopley said: “There
are many excellent creative products and resources on the market
and some that are not so good. Understanding the importance of
creative play in a child’s development, these awards are designed to
recognise the very best products that are available. We had many
great toys and craft kits entered and a rigorous testing programme
was implemented to make sure we had a balanced view of each.
The products that won are truly excellent.”
Products were marked according to their category and age
range being tested by the editor, a childcare professional and a
children’s focus group, having to pass a stringent set of criteria to
gain top marks.
Winners include; Interplay with the girl’s Wild! Science collection,
The Little Experience with its ‘stitch-it! donkey’, Flair with the Ben 10
Comic Maker Kit and Vivid Imaginations with Crayola Colour Surge.
For a full list of results visit www.creativesteps.co.uk. For more
information on how you can be involved in next year’s awards
contact Creative Steps by emailing dawn@creativesteps.co.uk
THE PACKAGING THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE
www.cleartecpackaging.co.uk
sales@cleartecpackaging.co.uk
Tel: 01952 678822
industry news
Target Transfers launches
compact cutting machine
The winner is…
The winner of the 3ft Forever Friends plush bear competition which Coats Crafts UK
ran in their Sept/Oct 2008 edition of their trade newsletter, Newsreel, is Susan Owen,
Manageress of Artcraft at Stephen H. Smith’s Garden & Leisure in Otley. Susan’s name
was drawn out randomly by Ted Machin, who works as Concierge at Lingfield Point.
Susan is going to use the bear in an instore charity raffle or donate him to a local
children’s charity.
New addition to Colourmount range
The Colourmount range is available in over 100 finishes and will continue to build
upon its reputation for innovation, with 2009 seeing the introduction of a collection
of heavily embossed mountboard entitled “Premier textures”.
The colour range is available with Conservation white core, Standard quality cream
core and also black core and offers a variety of sizes and thicknesses throughout,
enabling the framer to add value to the artwork and express his creativity.
The “Celebration” collection was also recently launched. These four ivory textured
mount boards are fantastic for framing wedding photos and other celebration items.
All collections are manufactured to exceed the strict standards laid down by the
Fine Art Trade Guild.
For further information call +44 (0)1625 578 900 or visit www.colourmount co.uk
12 craftfocus
Craft retailers and serious home crafters could
benefit from the Craft Robo series of cutting
machines. With multiple functions, including creating
attractive store-window display signs, paper cutting
to create scrapbook titles and greetings cards, and
creating stickers and original iron-on prints, they
really are versatile machines. The Craft Robo retails at
£190.85, while the CraftRobo Pro retails at £977.50.
Target Transfers is an official reseller for Graphtec,
manufacturer of the Craft Robo range of cutters.
Also available from Target Transfers is the heat press
(shown). This 15cm x 15cm Sprint Clam Auto Open
Heat Press retails for £626. The A4 CAD-CUT textile
material shown ranges from £9.14 per pack and is
available in sparkle, metallic, fluorescent and fashion
colours. The materials can be heat applied onto most
textiles including t-shirts, baby grows and more. This
could provide an excellent additional revenue stream
for craft retailers. For further information, simply
telephone +44 (0)1376 326 351 or send an email to
info@targettransfers.com
Beautiful pearlescent paper & card.
Single and double sided products.
All 30 colours of paper are available with self adhesive backing.
Totally acid free.
Manufactured from sustainable sources and is 100% recyclable.
Centura pearl is the ideal choice for:
• Card making, Memory books & Crafts
• Decorative packaging & Stationery
• Greeting cards & Gift wrap.
Please contact Paul Bowden of Slater Harrison for further details of
where you can purchase products produced from Centura Pearl.
Tel +44 (0) 1625 578903 (Direct)
Take a look at some of the latest products around
brand spanking new
Beads Unlimited
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Organza gift bags
Visit the website www.beadsunlimited.co.uk
Small bags are only 20p each, £2.25 for 20 (one colour) and £4.25 (random
colour mix). Larger bags are 30p each, £3.25 for 20 (one colour) and £5.25 for
20 (random colour mix).
Organza gift bags are a simple way for your customers to package their
handmade creations. The small bags measure 70mm x 100mm, while the large
bags measure 100mm x 150mm.
The bags are incredibly cost effective, and would appeal to anyone creating
miniature crafts. The bags could also be promoted as favour bags for weddings.
The bags come in eight pretty colours, giving a great choice to customers.
Beardie Designs
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Moonlight Garden
Visit the website www.beardiedesigns.com
18.25 euros
The design size is 142 stitches wide x 289 stitches long, and it uses Needlepoint Inc
silks as well as Dinky Dyes silks and Northern Lights silks.
Beardie Designs don’t sell complete kits as the firm feels that most shops
have fabrics in stock themselves.
Moonlight Garden was designed by The Drawn Thread, a talented US designer known
for her modern, sophisticated sampler style designs.
Derwent
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Student sketchbooks, A3, A4, A5 size
Visit www.pencils.co.uk
Prices range from £5.50 - £11.99 rrp
Derwent has just launched a new range of wire bound hardback sketchbooks which are ideal for
students. They feature wide spiral rings so they can accommodate extra pages, an elastic band to keep
loose sheets secure and an expanding pocket at the back to store other memorabilia. All
the sketchbooks contain 165gsm acid free textured paper which is perfect for drawings and notations
but also strong enough to allow photographs and other items to be stuck into the sketchbook.
Retailer Benefits:
The new student sketchbooks are available in a range of sizes from A5 to A3 in either portrait
or landscape formats plus a 12” (30cm) square version.
They are bound in practical, hardwearing, black vinyl.
Other Information:
Bothy Threads
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
14 craftfocus
A Dictionary of Tea and A Dictionary of Bras
Visit www.bothythreads.com
£24.99 rrp
Taken from pictures by Helen Smith, the designs measure 26cm x 28cm and
require full cross stitch, back stitch and a few French knots.
These fun, contemporary designs are sure to have broad appeal and would make a
great gift or self purchase.
Instructions, stitch diagrams, needle and pre-sorted stranded cottons are included
in each kit.
news&events
Trimcraft
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Smirk range
Visit www.trimcraft.co.uk
Varies according to product purchased
Smirk paper craft products are brand new for 2009, and items in this range
include foiled and glittered paper packs, clear stamps, rub-ons, fibres,
buttons, glitter markers and tags in two unique collections.
Smirk characters are a combination of sassy and sweet, which makes for a magical
and eclectic set of personalities with universal appeal.
These cute craft designs are sure to be a hit with all ages.
Avanquest
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Scrapbook Factory Deluxe 4.0 for the PC
Call +44 (0)1480 496 666 or visit www.avanquest.co.uk/shop for details
£29.35 rrp
The software allows treasured memories and keepsakes to be collected together in an attractive
digital scrapbook for enjoying and sharing at the click of a button
The software contains over 6,000 templates and 60,000 graphics, thereby offering the consumer
excellent value for money.
The software includes a digital photo editor for adding effects and removing red-eye to enhance
the final look of the project. Users can also add music to their scrapbooks, burn the whole
project to a CD, and invite friends and family to view their creation on TV as a slideshow.
Milliner Warehouse Ltd
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Fascinator kits
Visit www.mwandmore.com or call +44 (0)20 7730 4918
From £7.50 per kit depending on quantity
The ever popular fascinator kits from Milliner Warehouse Ltd have
recently been repackaged, now with instructions in four different languages
English, French, Spanish and German.
With renewed interest in wedding crafts, these stylish kits are sure to sell
well leading up to the key summer wedding season.
There are currently nine kits in the range, with varying designs and colours.
Stylecraft
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
‘Bubble’ range
Visit www.stylecraftyarns.co.uk
From £2.59 srp per ball
Stylecraft ‘Bubble’ is a new and unique textured fashion yarn. Its construction is made from a series of
intermittent bubbles in different sizes and spacing.
Retailer Benefits:
A palette of eight shades has been created in clean pastel tones to enhance the fresh and light feel of
the yarn.
Other Information:
Made from 100% Nylon and available in 50gm balls, ‘Bubble’ knits on big 8mm pins and 12mm for some
designs. The emphasis has been placed on quick, easy knits for ladies’ and girls’ wear.
craftfocus 15
brand spanking new
Club Green
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Glitz themed products
+44 (0)1483 281 313
Varies according to product purchased
New items in the Glitz range include diamanté ribbon buckles in two sizes, and a
selection of brooches. These are proving to be hugely popular where
cake decorators are concerned.
All of the new lines, including ribbons, self-adhesives, pouches, organzas and boxes
can be found in their brand new 144 page catalogue.
Find out about the other new lines for 2009 by visiting the comprehensive website
at www.clubgreen.com
Silverdale Designs
Product:
Oriental Bell Pull design
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Call +44 (0)1942 747 703 or visit www.silverdale-designs.com
£20 rrp
Measuring 7” x 19” (18cm x 48cm), the Oriental Bell Pull design is stitched
on white 14ct Aida using DMC threads.
Silverdale Designs can turn orders around very quickly, usually within a week.
There is no charge for p&p.
This flexible design could also be used with a coordinating fabric to make an
attractive cushion.
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
Emma Ball
Product:
Contact:
New additions to the inky scribbles range
Call +44 (0)115 920 3068
Price:
Specification:
Varies according to product purchased
Emma Ball Ltd will be launching more additions to her successful inky scribbles range
this spring, as well as new gift wrap, a range of Coastal kitchen fabric goods, Southern
Ireland in a box and a children’s book- Albert and the Slipper Limpets, a
story written by Jacqui Kilpatrick about a seagull who likes an adventure!
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
This cute gift range has broad appeal.
Find out more by sending an email to art@emmaball.co.uk
Coats Crafts
Product:
Contact:
Price:
Specification:
Retailer Benefits:
Other Information:
16 craftfocus
Anchor Sleeping Labradors design
Visit www.coats.com
Available on application
Following last year's success of Lesley Ann Ivory’s ‘Manuel, D.2, and
Avril’, the Anchor design team have developed ‘Sleeping Labradors’,
featuring three gorgeous and cute Labrador puppies. This design is
stitched on 16# white Aida.
With over 60 new designs in a variety of techniques, there are kits and
canvases for stitchers of all abilities.
Continuing with the dog theme, there are two endearing tapestry
starter kits, ‘Border Collie puppy’ and ‘Labrador puppy’.
ICHF
Stand
J42
MEXICAN TRAIN
One of the most popular domino games played in the world today! Each player
lays out chains of dominoes (called trains) from the centre of the domino, or he
may also lay on the group’s common domino chain, called The Mexican Train.
The aim of the game is to be the first to finish playing, and keep your train
moving all the way to victory! There are many events that block the trains along
the way and make the game exciting. Easy to learn and incredibly fun to play!
www.tactic.net
info@tacticgames.co.uk
Tel: +44 (0)1483 751267 • Fax: +44 (0)1483 755432
competition
WIN!
One of three prize bundles, worth a total
of around £700, courtesy of Ellison!
Industry leading craft company, Ellison Europe, has much to offer the
independent craft retailer and high street stockist.
Ellison Europe has experienced huge growth in the European market
over the last year with new territories taking on the popular Sizzix
brand. The successful company has kept up with the great leaps in paper
crafts, especially scrapbooking and card making, whilst continuing to
grow its portfolio of licensed designers, which is helping to lower the
demographic of crafters and get more people involved in craft.
Thanks to Ellison’s unique Steel Rule Blade dies from the Bigz,
Originals and new XL collections, the company is also seeing a rise in
the popularity of embellished home décor projects, whilst other items
in the range have enabled crafters to produce professional looking,
personalised homeware. In addition, the handy Mover and Shaper dies
have revolutionised card making, allowing crafters to create their own
card blanks and envelopes with apertures in the shape and position of
their choice.
A particular highlight for crafters to look forward to this year is the
new Big Shot Express Machine, which leaves the familiar crank behind
and can create embellishments and cut the longest of dies in as fast as
two seconds whilst being completely compatible with Sizzix products.
Never before has it been a better time to become a customer
of Ellison Europe and join the customers that consider Sizzix
to be the greatest die cutting system on the market today.
To find out more telephone +44 (0)871 222 2277 or visit the website
www.sizzix.co.uk.
THE PRIZE
Three lucky winners
will each receive one of
the following bundles of
Ellison goodies:
Bundle 1
• Large Rolling Tote (grey with black trim)
• Big Shot Machine (only in new black design)
• Bigz Alphabet Set 7 Dies
– Serif Essentials by E.L. Smith
• Movers & Shapers Die
– Kit #1 Card, horizontal A2 by E.L. Smith
• XL Cutting Pad
• Movers & Shapers Die – Flower by Stu Kilgour
2
Bundle 2
• Big Shot Machine
(only in new black design)
• Doctors Bag
(black, white and pink plaid)
• Movers & Shapers Die – Kit #3 Card, horizontal note by E.L. Smith
• XL Cutting Pad
• Sizzlits Alphabet Set 35 Dies – Lipstick Love Letter by Stu Kilgour
3
To enter the competition, simply visit www.craftfocus.com,
fill in your details and answer the following question:
“What is the name of the new Big Shot Machine?”
The deadline for entries is 27th March 2009. C
Terms and Conditions
1. Competitions are not open to employees (or their immediate families) of
Kline Davis Ltd.
2. The competition closing date is subject to change without prior notice.
3. The winner will be notified in writing.
4. The editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
5. The prize is not transferable and has no monetary value.
6. If an advertised prize is not available, we reserve the right to offer an
alternative prize of equal or greater value.
7. No purchase necessary to enter and there is no charge to enter via the
website at www.craftfocus.com.
1
Bundle 3
• Sidekick Tote #2
• Sidekick Machine (only in new pink design)
• Sizzlits Die Set 4 PK – Fairy Tales Set by Debi Potter
• Sizzlits Alphabet Set 35 Dies – Cherish by Stu Kilgour (small)
• Sizzlits Decorative Strip Die – Flowers & Hearts by Dena Designs
craftfocus 19
marketing
know-how
Roma Bhowmick reveals some smart ways to keep
your business strong in the current economic climate
When market conditions get tough, smart
firms take a long, hard look at their business,
focus on what they are best at doing and
turn adversity into opportunity. So says SME
support specialist Roma Bhowmick, who
explains that a bit of ‘navel gazing’ now could
be just what the doctor ordered to help
you avoid the recession blues and be fit and
healthy when the post-recession party begins.
“Any change in market conditions is as
much an opportunity as it is a threat,” says
Business Link Adviser Roma Bhowmick. “And
those businesses that can successfully identify
and exploit opportunities will come out of
the recession as much stronger and more
capable organisations.”
Roma, like her fellow Business Link Advisers
at Business Link in the East of England, has
been devoting much of her time recently to
giving her clients comprehensive ‘health checks’
to make sure they are in a position to survive,
and even thrive, through the recession. With
the economic downturn impacting on small to
medium size enterprises (SMEs), Roma and her
colleagues are keen to use the full armoury of
Business Link services to help businesses cope
with difficult trading conditions.
“One key feature of this recession is that
many younger companies have no experience
of trading through an economic downturn,”
continues Roma, “and our challenge is to
demonstrate to them that it is possible to turn
tough trading conditions to their advantage,
by going back to basics and applying best
business practice.”
20 craftfocus
“Any change in market
conditions is as much an
opportunity as it is a threat.”
Don’t downsize your marketing – direct
it to what sells
When firms are looking at reducing their
costs, marketing spend is often one of the
first casualties. But, as Roma points out, smart
businesses invest more in marketing during
a downturn: “If your competitors are cutting
down on their marketing and sales, you
have an ideal opportunity to win over their
customers and grow your market share. This is
especially important when you are competing
for a smaller pot of money.
“The key is to market smarter – take a close
look at all your marketing opportunities and
only pick the very best. Ask yourself: ‘What
is the most appropriate marketing that will
sell more of my most popular and profitable
products or services?’”
And as the cost of retaining existing
customers is considerably lower than recruiting
new ones, making sure your customer service
is maintained, plus implementing customer
retention initiatives, such as discounts, loyalty
schemes and regular communications, will
help keep costs down and sales up. Providing
efficient service, fast delivery and – for very
special customers who have an iron-clad credit
rating – flexible payment terms should be
considered a given.
“Talking regularly to your customers and
always asking ‘Is there anything else we can be
doing for you at the moment?’ often results in
you spotting a customer service issue before it
becomes a crisis,” continues Roma. “If they’ve
been talking to your competitors you may
find out what’s been offered and proactively
match the deal. But don’t be tempted to slash
prices automatically; things like your superior
customer service, reliability and flexible
payment terms might be more important to
customers than a discount.”
But, cautions Roma, beware of a customer
backlash if your service has not always been up
to scratch: “If you’ve had issues with customers
in the past and you’re suddenly all over them
like a rash, they may take offence and take
your sudden interest the wrong way by asking,
quite reasonably, ‘Why wasn’t I treated this
way before?’.” The lesson is to know your
customers well and apply careful judgement on
a case-by-case basis.
Focus on core skills
It is hugely tempting to reduce staff training
to the absolute minimum, viewing it as a
‘non-essential’ cost when looking to reduce
overheads. Like marketing, the opposite
should be the case as it is highly motivated
and productive employees that will get small
businesses through the recession.
Roma’s advice is to conduct a skills audit
and really understand what your employees
can do: “Your staff will be really nervous right
now; they are no fools and understand that
business link
the economic troubles might mean job cuts.
They may instinctively be looking for other
opportunities to work for organisations
that they perceive to be more resilient to a
recession. And the chances are, of course, that
the best people you want to keep will be the
first to find work elsewhere.”
So, Roma explains, the best way to send
a strong message of confidence to staff is to
continue investing in training. Employees will
feel more valued and motivated and are likely
to be more productive, resulting in a potential
fast return on any positive investment you
make in training.
“The key is to market
smarter – look at all your
marketing opportunities
and only pick the very best.
Ask yourself: ‘What is the
most appropriate marketing
that will sell more of my
most popular and profitable
products or services?’”
There is also a huge amount of assistance
available from government agency, Train to
Gain, to help small businesses identify their
training needs. And there is cash available,
usually through matched funding or various
fully funded programmes, to help with training
costs. “Business Link Advisers are able to refer
businesses to their local Train to Gain skills
consultant,” explains Roma. “They will complete
a skills audit, recommend what training is
needed and signpost sources of grant funding
to help with training costs.”
Choose redeployment not redundancy
Whilst job losses are possibly inevitable as
the effects of the recession are felt by more
businesses, small businesses should consider
redundancy as a case of last resort. The effects
of redundancy on remaining staff can be
devastating and replacements for good people
may be difficult to find when the market does
finally improve.
The alternative, says Roma, is retraining and
redeployment: “With the amount of support
available from Business Link and Train to Gain,
companies are able to explore these options
much faster and with less risk to themselves,
rather than succumbing to the knee-jerk
reaction of redundancy.”
Small firms can often survive a deep
recession where larger corporations fail,
because of their flexibility and ability to react
quickly to changing market conditions. “You
don’t need a crystal ball to see that we are
in for a tough year or so, and things will get
worse before they get better,” concludes
Roma, “But, with a little help from Business
Link, small firms can use the downturn to
their advantage and emerge much stronger
and more competitive to take on the markets
when they pick up.”
FREE check-up to assess the health of
your business – online or in person
Are you concerned about your ability to trade
through this recession? Business Link has
developed an interactive online Health Check
that can identify those areas of your business
that require your attention.
To take your company through the simple
steps that might mean the difference between
merely surviving and actually thriving through
the recession, visit the informative website
www.businesslink.gov.uk/healthcheck
The Health Check will cover issues
of key importance to your business
including:
Finance and banking
Sales and sales projections
Customers and money owed
Business administration
Your staff
Your position in the business. C
Further Information
You can work through the Health Check
online, or contact your local Business
Link and arrange for an experienced
Business Adviser to visit your company and
conduct a Health Check in person, just
call +44 (0)8457 17 16 15 or visit www.
businesslink.gov.uk/healthcheck.
craftfocus 21
WEB OF WOOL
Specialists in ‘self patterning’ yarns
Distributor for Schoeller &
Stahl yarns including the
Socka Fortissima sock yarns
and many more.
Exciting coloured yarns in
Wool, Cotton and Bamboo
blends including some with
added yarn conditioners
We have a large range of
patterns and kits to tempt
your customers along with
accessories like the Rollie
StitchKeepers.
WEB OF WOOL (WHOLESALE)
53 Regent Grove, Holly Walk, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV32 4PA
01926 311614 trade@webofwool.co.uk
www.webofwool.co.uk
memory crafts
making a
memory
We take a look at some of the best new
crafting products to commemorate the
birth of a baby
THE STITCHING SHED
www.thestitchingshed.co.uk
The Stitching Shed supplies cross stitch and needlepoint kits for
all occasions. The ‘It’s a Boy’ and ‘It’s a Girl’ designs are perfect
for celebrating the birth of a baby, and come in a special kit
with everything required to make the pretty cushion. Priced at
£13.50rrp, the 6” x 6” (15cm x 15cm) colour printed canvas also
comes with needle, pre-sorted threads, buttons, pre-cut felt, black
and white charted design, and full making up instructions.
BUZZCRAFT
www.buzzcraft.co.uk
Cardmakers everywhere will be spoilt for choice with the wide
range of themed papers and cards from Buzzcraft. Their baby
boy and baby girl ranges feature cute motifs, pretty patterned
backgrounds and messages of congratulations – everything your
customer needs to create a personal greetings card.
COLOUR MY WORLD
www.colourmyworld.co.uk
The Baby Template shown comes
from a new company that burst onto
the craft scene in 2007 with cutting
edge template designs that are as practical as they are pretty. There
are 30 unique templates to choose from in this, the More Than
Words range, and all designs are available in three different sizes. All
Colour my World products are made in England.
FISKARS
www.fiskars.com
There are eight new Mini Stamp
designs available in the popular
Fiskars clear acrylic sheet format,
with fresh designs such as Baby, Love,
Birthday, Spring, Scrapbook, Girly
plus Upper & Lower Case alphabets.
These are for use with the Fiskars
Easy Stamp Press. Easily cleaned with
warm water or stamp cleaner, these
new Mini Sheets of Stamps retail for
just £8.49.
DMC
www.dmccreative.co.uk
Often people struggle to find that perfect baby gift; something to
celebrate the arrival of a new member of the family and something
that can be personalised by adding a name and date. DMC offers a
wide range of counted cross stitch kits including Disney and Hello
Kitty designs. Charts and ready to stitch items such as bibs, bottle
warmers, afghans, bath wraps, record books and baby rattles are
also available. These charming stitching keepsakes will be cherished
and adored for many years. C
craftfocus 23
hop to it
Put a spring in your customers’ steps with
these fun, Easter-themed crafting products
Look carefully in any high street card shop and you may be surprised
to find that birthdays, weddings and Valentine’s Day aren’t the only
occasions now celebrated. From Chinese New Year, to ‘congratulations
on your divorce’, if there’s something to be celebrated, a card says it all.
And if people are buying the cards on the high street, chances are there’s
a crafting niche to be filled!
This is certainly true of Easter; once consumers might have struggled
to find a professionally printed card for the occasion, but now there are
hundreds of decorative designs on sale on the high street. Despite this
increase, Easter is still very much a crafting occasion. We take a quick
look at some of the newest lines…
Design Objectives
www.docrafts.co.uk
Design Objectives has plenty of new Easter-themed
lines to tempt crafters in 2009. From the adorable
Forever Friends Easter Surprise Decoupage Pack,
to an Easter Seclection sticker pack with more
traditional Easter messages, there really is something
for everyone.
Woodware
www.woodware.co.uk
The new Easter-themed ClearMagic stamps from Woodware have
broad appeal. Because the stamps and the acrylic blocks used to
mount the stamps are clear, it’s easy to position the stamps perfectly
on cards or scrapbook pages.
The acrylic blocks, presently available in five sizes, have been
designed for maximum control with shaped sides for a comfortable
grip and are a similar weight to the Woodware wood mounted stamps,
making the change to ClearMagic stamps easy.
Crafter’s Companion
www.crafterscompanion.co.uk
The original Cute Companions range
of stamp plates, designed by stamping
expert Jayne Nestorenko, are perfect
for Easter cards. The versatility of the
stamps means that your customers
can enjoy making a wide variety of
cards and crafting creations, simply and
with ease.
Craftime
www.craftime.com
Craftime’s newest, limited edition, range features lemon, spring
green, pastel blue, and baby pink embellishments. From bunnies
and chicks to Easter baskets and flowers, the pretty range is
versatile enough to be used not just for Easter cards but also
for any springtime themed cards. Also available is a selection
of glittered foam stickers, perfect for children or the young
at heart to decorate Easter bonnets and baskets. The foam
stickers are covered with sparkly glitter
that is non transferable.
Mouseloft
www.mouseloft.co.uk
Mouseloft specialises in cute counted cross stitch
kits at pocket money prices. The latest kits are just
perfect for Easter crafting, with key designs featuring
adorable chicks or bunnies in baskets. Priced at just
£2.29 rrp, each kit contains a mounting card and
envelope, and would make a great impulse buy. Place
by the till to maximise sales!
24 craftfocus
Buttonbag’s beautiful spring range is available now
• sewing kits
• craft kits
• jewellery kits
for more information and our new catalogue contact us at
studio@buttonbag.co.uk
0208 525 1640
07812 035 161
www.buttonbag.co.uk
behind the
scenes
We speak to David Bennett, Show
Director for Craft, Hobby + Stitch
International, to find out exactly
what the show has in store for
buyers this year…
What is new and exciting for the
show in 2009?
Every year we have new and exciting features,
displays, workshops, seminars and exhibitors at
Craft, Hobby & Stitch International. Exhibitors
will showcase hundreds of the latest, cutting
edge designs, products and ideas and buyers
will discover what trends and predictions
experts expect for the year 2009. We will also
have the BrightSparks Pavilion again this year
with brand new businesses and designs and
the New Product Showcase with everything
new displayed here and easily labelled with the
stand number.
The Needlecraft Village is a great feature
with new designs from many of the leading
suppliers, plus demonstrations, technique
sessions and much more.
1
What incentives have you put in
place to tempt buyers to the show
this year?
Buyers visiting Craft, Hobby + Stitch
International this year will get exclusive
exhibitor offers at the show, including discounts
on show orders, free gifts and prize draws.
This has been mailed to over 20,000 buyers
from around the world. Offers will include
free patterns from King Cole, 10% discount on
all Imagepac products, free prize draws from
David & Charles and much more.
2
Why do you think the
BrightSparks Pavilion was such
a success with buyers when it was
introduced last year?
The BrightSparks Pavilion was a huge success
3
26 craftfocus
last year as exhibitors are in a dedicated area
for small, young companies where buyers
find new and exclusive products, designs and
companies within the craft industry.
Exhibitors receive:
• An opportunity to exhibit on a low budget
• Dedicated editorial feature on their company
in the Show Guide
• Brightly coloured stand fascia to stand out
from the crowd
• Access to our dedicated press relations team
free of charge
• Free web entry
• Dedicated display space on the New
Product Showcase
What can buyers expect from the
BrightSparks Pavilion 2009?
Many new businesses and designers have
already signed up to exhibit in the BrightSparks
Pavilion with a new and exclusive, wide range
of products including mosaic kits for children
4
from the Mosaic Mad Romans, and a new
range of jewellery kits and Paverpol Canvas
from the Crazy Wire Company. The Little
Experience will offer their award-winning
children’s craft kits and launch five new
stitching and knitting kits at the show, while
Stitchtastic will showcase their new range of
cross-stitch designs including the brand new
Petz series. Brand new company, Oak House
Studio from East Yorkshire, launched in April
2008. They will offer a range of clear stamps
for card makers and scrapbookers.
What can buyers expect from
the workshops and seminar
programme this year?
We’re offering buyers and exhibitors the
chance to ‘try before they buy’ at Craft
Hobby + Stitch International with a series
of workshops beginning on Saturday 14th
February, giving retailers a chance to take part
the day before the show opens.
5
ICHF
the UK’s most prestigious exhibition venue,
the internationally recognised Birmingham
NEC. It’s situated right in the centre of the
UK and is easily accessible by road, rail and air,
encouraging both exhibitors and buyers from
all over the UK and the world. The NEC is the
hub of the exhibition industry and the show
has been extremely successful there for over
20 years, so there is no reason to consider a
change of venue.
How much impact has the
recession had on the show? What
steps have you taken, if any, to minimise
the impact?
The craft industry has remained buoyant
despite the recent economic downturn. We
have actually heard and seen reports over the
last few months, revealing that sales of sewing
machines and craft equipment have increased
and an upsurge of people are customising or
mending old clothes and creating their own
crafts. John Lewis have sold 18% more sewing
machines while Argos has seen a 50% rise and
Tesco has also had a significant increase. John
Lewis has also sold 40% more buttons than a
year ago.
Many journalists have been encouraging
readers to make their own Christmas presents
this year as well, to save money and add
a personal touch to a gift. This has in turn
promoted many different crafts including
knitting, card-making, sewing and scrapbooking
and has really revived the whole craft industry.
Craft, Hobby + Stitch International is
continually evolving, providing visitors and
exhibitors with much added value, making
their visit to the show more valuable and
worthwhile. First time and existing exhibitors
will showcase a vast range of new and exciting,
cutting edge products alongside new features,
special discounted show offers from exhibitors
and the extensive, creative workshop and
seminar programme.
9
There is a new and exciting schedule
of workshops this year including Butterfly
Bonanza with Rob Walker from Crafty
Horizons, highlighting the beauty of acrylic
butterflies for card-making and scrapbooking.
Katrina Barton from Krasnaya Nesting Dolls
will show how you can make your own
three-piece nesting animals with Painta Pets
kits. You can also explore Melt Art Jewellery
Making with Suze Weinburg, from Personal
Impressions, developing new, quick and easy
ways to create beautiful pieces of jewellery.
We’re also running a series of free business
seminars for the second year running,
offering relevant and current, expert advice
on marketing, pr, sales and customer service.
Wendy Gardiner will encourage you to bite
back at the credit crunch as many people
turn to sewing and crafting in the economic
downturn, while Julia Hopson from Cornish
Organic Wool will reveal the truth about
Textile Production. Geoffrey Fairfield from
Fairfield Displays will give advice about using
displays to help maximise sales.
How many new exhibitors will you
be welcoming to Craft, Hobby +
Stitch International 2009? Which ones
do you think will be a particular draw
for buyers?
We are delighted that there are over 30
new exhibitors at the show in 2009. All of
the exhibitors will be a draw for buyers as
together they present a wide range of new,
different products from all sectors of the
craft industry including textiles, papercraft,
6
hobbycraft and art. Experts from all over
the UK and the world will offer advice and
guidance as well as tips and ideas, plus global
trends for the upcoming year. We have many
well-established exhibitors who visit the show
every year and organise meetings with their
customers, network and develop new contacts
and business relationships.
What do you enjoy most about
your role as Show Director?
There are constant changes to the show with
new exhibitors, features, and workshops to be
considered. Dealing with the venue, exhibitors,
contractors and visitors means there is great
variety of work. The job is therefore always
interesting and stimulating.
7
Have you ever considered moving
the show to a London venue? If
not, why?
Craft Hobby + Stitch International is held at
8
How do you see ICHF evolving
over the next few years?
ICHF has been at the forefront of the industry
for over 30 years and has always moved
forward and changed in order to remain at the
front. We are always looking at new shows or
adapting existing ones in order to keep pace
with any changes in the industry. C
10
craftfocus 27
ICHF
stand to attention
Now in its 34th year, Craft, Hobby + Stitch International has
plenty to tempt UK and international craft buyers. Read on
to find out more…
Taking place at the NEC, Birmingham, from
15th-17th February, Craft, Hobby + Stitch
International attracts craft retailers from across
the country, and abroad, all keen to stock up
on the season’s latest product lines. What’s
more, with so many demonstrations and
workshops on offer, it provides retailers with
the perfect opportunity to brush up on new
crafting techniques that can be passed onto
the end user.
The theme for the show this year is Reclaim,
Reuse and Recycle as, according to the show
organiser, retailers and manufacturers should
be encouraging their customers to sew, mend,
stitch, and generally become more creative. It’s
an initiative that couldn’t be more timely; in the
current economic climate, this is the perfect
way to encourage new crafters.
First look
One of the first ports of call for all retailers
In Brief
Show: Craft, Hobby + Stitch International
Date: 15th-17th February 2009
Location: NEC, Birmingham
Exhibitors: Around 300 stands
Visitors: 7,969 buyers attended last
year’s event
Opening hours: Sunday and Monday
9am-6pm, Tuesday 9am-4.30pm
Web: www.ichf.co.uk/chsi
should be the BrightSparks Pavilion, where
new businesses and designers will be
showcasing their products for the first time.
This is the perfect place to snap up exclusive
lines not yet in the public domain. Exhibitors
at the BrightSparks Pavilion this year include
Stitchtastic Sheffield, which specialises in unique
cross-stitch kits featuring a wide range of
caricature designs, and The Little Experience,
which will introduce its award-winning craft kits
for children. These have already been widely
acclaimed in the gift industry.
A stitch in time
A strong focus of the show will be needlework,
with competitions, exciting displays,
demonstrations and features all focusing on
the latest designs and initiatives to inspire
people to return to this traditional craft. From
cross-stitch to tapestry, embroidery to knitting,
there’s something for every ability.
craftfocus 29
stand to attention
Workshops and seminars
Aside from stocking up on the newest craft
lines, retailers should make a beeline for the
exciting workshop programme, which will
be presented by key exhibitors, designers
and distributors and will provide buyers with
the necessary knowledge to sell many new
products. As last year, the workshops will start
on the Saturday (14th February), the day
before the show opens.
David Bennett, Managing Director of ICHF
Ltd (the show organisers) said:“Every year we
look at ways to develop Craft, Hobby + Stitch
to ensure it continues to be the leading event
for the industry, delivering exactly the right
environment for buyers and exhibitors to do
business. Our workshop programme will be as
strong and varied as ever and we have a new
and extended seminar programme planned.”
Travel arrangements
Craft, Hobby + Stitch International is held
at the UK’s most prestigious exhibition
venue, the internationally recognised NEC
Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, which is
situated in the centre of the UK and easily
accessed by all.
Direct flights and connections from
most major European and International
cities fly into Birmingham International
Airport, which is adjacent to the exhibition
centre. A unique ‘Skyrail’ monorail links the
exhibition centre to the airport providing a
stress free transit from plane to exhibition.
Access by rail and car are both just as
easy as the NEC is at the heart of the UK
motorway network providing excellent
road and rail connections to all parts of
the country. For more information about
the NEC visit www.necgroup.co.uk C
Further information
To find out more, simply visit the website
at www.ichf.co.uk/chsi, or telephone
+44 (0)1425 272 711.
30 craftfocus
Visit us at:
STAND: L15
T: 0161 480 8734
E: uk.eusales@simplicity.com
ICHF
Beadalo
n
craft, hobby + stitch
Read on for further details about the brand new products due to be launched at the
NEC this February…
Product Previews
Beads Unlimited
Stand D24
Tel: +44 (0)1273 740 777
Web: www.beadsunlimited.co.uk
Beads Unlimited is a much loved institution, supplying
the beautiful people of Brighton and beyond with beads,
charms, findings and threads since 1986. Stalwarts of
the craft and bead fair circuit, this is their 12th year
at Craft, Hobby + Stitch International. They have built
up a loyal following with their combination of easy
going friendliness, down to earth efficiency and old
fashioned no nonsense service.
Following the runaway success of their glass feature
beads in 2008 they will be unveiling a range of very
reasonably priced pandora (aka troll) beads. Also up for
grabs is an expanded size and colour range of organza
gift bags. Their last shipment flew out as soon as they
docked so snap up the collection while you can.
Beadalon
Stand C28
Tel: 1-866-4423-2325
Web: www.beadalon.com
For over 30 years, Beadalon has been
the manufacturer of premium bead
stringing wires in the USA. The firm has introduced exciting
new wire products such as the industry’s fist silver plated
and 24K gold plated wires, along with sophisticated metallic
and satin coloured wires. In addition, Beadalon offers a full range
of beading supplies, including stringing accessories, beads, books,
cords, CD/DVDs, findings, organisers, tools and more. “Our goal is to create
– not imitate - and bring truly new and innovative products for beadings, such as
our Scrimp™ Findings and Bead Bumpers™,” says Yvette Rodriguez, Marketing
Coordinator. Buyers will also be given a 10% discount off their order when
placed at this stand.
Burfitt Tools
Stand BS01
Tel: 61 +407 338 990
Web: www.burfitt.com.au
A Western Australian medical instrument designer
has revolutionised the craft and hobby world with
an unique range of specialist tools and instruments.
Managing Director of Burfitt Medical, Mr Murray
Burfitt, recognised the benefits of an old sheep
shearing tool, when expanding his range of hobby and
craft tools.
The new cutting tool is a very effective thread cutter. It has straight or
curved blades that are 110mm (4 ¼”) in length. The one finger grip makes it user
friendly, and because your entire hand works the cutter, there is less chance of
fatigue in your forearm muscles. To find out more about the wide range of craft
tools available from Burfitt Tools, simply visit the stand.
Classic Embroidery
Stand A10
Tel: +44 (0)1529 461 056
Web: www.classicemb.co.uk
Classic Embroidery will be showing two new ranges, and their existing ones, at
Craft, Hobby + Stitch this February.
First, Classic Embroidery has bought the designs and name of Barbara Thompson
Designs and will now produce and market Barbara’s distinctive cross-stitch kits.
Barbara will continue to design which is important for the future of the brand.
The second agreement is with X-Calibre Designs, the very well know producers
of a fabulous series of blackwork designs. Classic Embroidery will now manufacture
and distribute the range and, again, an important feature of the arrangement is the
continuing involvement of Carol Leather in the production of new work.
craftfocus 33
craft, hobby + stitch
Product Previews
Hobby Habit
Stand O64
Tel: +44 (0)1780 489 489
Web: www.hobbyhabit.co.uk
Hobby Habit will be showing new lines from Nancy
Watt, embracing the hot trend for 2009 with its
Victorian and Edwardian ranges. The craft firm will
also be releasing a new 1950s retro range from Tim
Wright. Finally, cats, dogs, porcelina and mice are also
‘on the cards’, along with a new, exclusive range of
licensed products for 2009.
Crafty Horizons
Stand H11
Tel: +44 (0)1752 407 178
Web: www.craftyhorizons.co.uk
At Craft, Hobby + Stitch 2009, Crafty Horizons will
be showing its full product range, with particular focus
on the new range of Acrylic Gems, including some
fabulous dolphins, hearts and stars, and the everpopular silk stocking butterflies and dragonflies. Crafty
Horizons will also be running workshops based on
using the range of silk stocking and acrylic butterflies
and dragonflies during the show. The craft firm is also
hoping to be able to offer an early preview of the
fantastic new embellishment kits it intends to launch
in the spring, including beautiful paper flower kits and
versatile ribbon and bow sets.
34 craftfocus
Helix
Stand D56
Tel: +44 (0)1384 424 441
Web: www.helix.co.uk
Helix will be showcasing a number
of new products at Craft, Hobby + Stitch
International. The new circle cutter cuts perfect,
accurate circles every time, up to 6” in diameter. The device
fits into the Craft Room workstation lid and prevents the card or
paper from moving during use.
Helix is also adding to the embossing boards, this time with boards
themed for men’s sports, script greetings and children’s birthday, which
comes complete with birthday greetings as well as birthday badges.
Ellison Europe
Stand G36
Tel: +44 (0)871 222 2277
Web: www.sizzix.co.uk
Fresh for 2009, Ellison Europe is
launching some amazing new
products in the Sizzix range,
including 3D dies from a brand
new designer and the much
awaited powered Big Shot Express.
Another new technology that will be
available in 2009 is the all new Sizzix embossing folders. The new embossing
folder creates an amazing result due to the positive of the design being on one
side of the folder and the negative being on the other. When the folder is closed
the material is forced to adopt the shape of the design and is moulded to the
exact shape giving a really deep and clear emboss. With a great range of new
designs in three different sizes, they’re sure to be a hit with consumers.
BEARDIE
DESIGNS
Beardie Designs is the distributor
for The Drawn Thread, The Gift of
Stitching, Dinky Dyes and many more.
Look at our website:
www.beardiedesigns.nl
Beardie Designs
Max Euwestraat 30
6833 LH ARNHEM
The Netherlands
Tel.: 00 31 26 321 17 24
Fax: 00 31 26 321 18 58
Email: info@ beardiedesigns.nl
Mention this advert and you
have shipping free on your first order.
ICHF
craft, hobby + stitch
Product Previews
Scientific Wire Company
Stand D72
Tel: +44 (0)20 8505 0002
Web: www.wires.co.uk
Scientific Wire Company has specialised in the craft wire
sector for many years and currently produces craft wires
in more than 27 colours. The firm enamels, knits and
textile covers wire, strands and processes all types of
wire. Furthermore, it has supplied schools, colleges and
universities for 48 years. To find out more, visit stand D72.
Paper Cellar
Stand E22
Tel: +44 (0)871 871 3711
Web: www.papercellar.com
Paper Cellar will launch its brand new Classic Mr Men & Little Miss Range
of craft and embellishment products at the Paperworld Show in Frankfurt,
Germany in January 2009 and then again at Craft, Hobby + Stitch 2009 in
Birmingham, with products being on sale in stores from February 2009.
The Paper Cellar Mr Men range is based on the classic Roger Hargreaves Mr
Men & Little Miss Books which have been around since the 1970s and now sell
over eight million copies annually a year.
The Paper Cellar Range of Mr Men Craft Products will include card kits,
bubble stickers, decoupage sheets, wall décor and glitter stickers plus more
based on some of the most popular characters to date.
Jones & Co (Nottingham) Ltd
Stand F20
Tel: +44 (0)115 978 1263
Web: www.jonesnottm.co.uk
In 2009, Jones & Co will be
celebrating its centenary year
with a plethora of new brands
including 7gypsies, Black Market
Paper Society, Sugartree, Amate
Studios and Lisa Pavelka. Lisa will be demonstrating how to
use various products from her signature range and will be
carrying out fun and educational workshops on each of the
three days of the show.
Apart from these new signings, Jones & Co will be
showcasing new and ever-popular products such as Stretch
Magic from Pepperell, Clear the Closet from O’Scrap, Fine
Weave from Magic Mesh, Acrylic Stamping Blocks from
Applepie Memories and more. Whatever the field of craft,
Jones & Co have something special to offer.
Simplicity Limited
Stand M14
Tel: +44 (0)161 480 8734
Web: www.simplicity.com
Simplicity Limited is well known for its extensive range of paper patterns. Keen
to help retailers capitalise on the current trends of customising, restyling and
recycling Simplicity are launching a new selection of trims and appliqués at Craft,
Hobby + Stitch International. These include a selection of ‘By the Metre’ trims
and individually packaged appliqués; including Disney licensed characters all from
Wrights, a leading supplier in the USA.
“We’ve a wide ‘By the Metre’ range, encompassing over 300 different fashion
trim lines,” said Sue Haft, Simplicity Managing Director. “We are delighted to
offer these on short delivery lead times too so that they can be on our
customers’ shelves very quickly, enabling them to respond to trends as they hit
the high street.”
craftfocus 37
craft, hobby + stitch
Product Previews
Madeira Garne
Stand G35
Tel: +49 (0)761 51048 25
Web: www.madeira.de
New from Madeira
Garne is a range of festive
crochet kits, perfect for
Christmas 2009. The
Snowmen crochet kit
comes with three balls
of Nora lustre yarn and
cotton wool balls, and
makes three cute snowmen with scarves and hats. The Ball and angel crochet kit
will make marvelous Christmas tree balls and a festive angel. This kit comes with
four balls of Nora lustre yarn, one wooden bead and crochet instructions.
Mouseloft
Stand D05
Tel: +44 (0)1477 533 566
Web: www.mouseloft.co.uk
Mouseloft is launching an exciting new range of counted cross stitch kits. The
‘Friendly Planet’ range features 12 designs retailing at just £1.79 each. They make
an ideal impulse purchase with four trios each depicting three friendly animals
based upon a theme. This colourful collection is cute and easy to stitch with
bright designs which will appeal to animal lovers of all ages.
Also at this price point, the ‘Stitchlets’ range appeals to young and old with
eight new additions, making over 60 designs in total. The ‘Tiddlers’ 99p range is
also enhanced by four new designs.
38 craftfocus
The Stitching Shed
Stand A08
Tel: +44 (0)845 157 6045
Web: www.thestitchingshed.co.uk
Once again The Stitching Shed designers have drawn
on their keen sense of fun and colour to produce a
stunning new range for 2009. The demand for the firm’s
children’s needlepoint kits has risen hugely over the
past 12 months, adding weight to the forecast that craft
is re-emerging as a popular pastime with this age group.
Along with five new designs in the children’s needlepoint
range, The Stitching Shed has also introduced a collection
of children’s cross stitch kits. These, along with the new
releases from the adult range, will be on show at Craft,
Hobby + Stitch.
Woodware
Stand G50
Tel: +44 (0)1756 700 024
Web: www.woodware.co.uk
Woodware will be showing the new ranges of rubber
stamps from Stampendous, Magenta and its own range.
Furthermore, there will be new releases to the designer
range of Peel Offs, along with additions to the existing
ranges of punches, embellishments, tools of the trade and
more. There will be up to four demonstrations going on
all the time and a ‘Make & Take’ table using some of the
new products. Finally, there will be a representative from
Hubinont/Artemio to answer any questions about their
range of products.
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ICHF
craft, hobby + stitch
Product Previews
Viridian
Stand H50
Tel: +44 (0)117 300 5244
Web: www.viridianyarn.com
Viridian Trading Ltd. will be showcasing its new Trekking
and Opal yarn ranges, together with the Clover range
of needles, crocket hooks, etc. The firm is also the UK
wholesaler for the “Knit Pick” needles manufactured by
“Indutsch of India” and these will also be on display. “If you
sell yarn and knitting accessories and intend to attend the
exhibition, do come and see us”, said David Husbands of
Viridian. “We are sure you will find something of interest
for your customers on our stand. People will continue to
enjoy their hobbies during this current economic down
turn – just give them something new and interesting! We
will be providing a ‘special offer’ just for the exhibition.”
Keepsake Card Craft Company
Stand C06
Tel: +44 (0)1215 446 444
Web: www.keepsakecardcraft2004.biz
The Glitter Girls will be unveiling an exciting new addition to their brand this
spring – Glitter Kidz World. These products teach computer skills, and become
hands-on crafting projects that can be shared. Girls and boys are provided with a
variety of characters, all who glitter their way through interactive CDs and new
matching Keepsake embossing boards. There will also be a fantastic new website,
www.glitterkidz.com for products, games and prizes, including the new afterschool club area.
Crafter’s Companion
Stand H36/37
Tel: +44 (0)1388 663 251
Web: www.crafterscompanion.co.uk
Crafter’s Companion will be
demonstrating its best-selling
scoreboard, the Ultimate Pro, as well
as the innovative Rock-a-Blocks that
have taken the stamping world by
storm. Crafter’s Companion will also
be launching a new range tipped be
a massive success, as well as further
additions to an existing range.
Bead Time
Stand F65
Tel: +44 (0)1784 252 438
Web: www.beadtime.co.uk
Bead Time was formed two years ago, buying and supplying its own retail
outlets. On realising the popularity of its products, the firm decided to
form a wholesale company supplying components to other retailers and
resellers only.
Most findings are made in four colour ranges and are packaged for
retail in euro hook bags with a description and quantity label, but no
branding on the label so retailers can add their own if required.
Bead Time carries everything from head pins to crimp covers, chain,
stretchy bracelets, charms, bangle sections, bookmarks, metal flowers,
watch faces, diamante roundels and memory wire. It also wholesales
some other products including acrylic lucite flowers and leaves.
craftfocus 41
craft, hobby + stitch
Product Previews
Marabu
Stand D19
Tel: +44 (0)1908 378 899
Web: www.marabu-creative.com
Marabu will be offering the retailer a
new support package with a free DVD
player with 20 craft projects using Marabu
on this DVD. Each is around eight to 10
minutes long and this will be provided free
of charge against a stock order. In this way,
the end user can see first hand how to
use and undertake certain crafts.
The retailer can have this playing in
store and select different projects as they wish
- this will help the sales process and get the tills
ringing again.
The DVD can also be used to run craft workshops
where customers learn and undertake projects with
the help of the DVD.
EFCO
Stand F72
Tel: +44 (0)1737 245 450
Web: www.sinotex.co.uk/efco
Efco is launching Photo Pearls, a
fascinating and fun experience
that turns photographic images
into pictures made up from tiny
colourful beads.
Photo Pearls uses unique
user-friendly software that
scans digital images and
converts them into a numbered
beading guide. The beads come
in a range of 30 gorgeous colours
to create tones and shading. The numbered guide is
placed beneath a special transparent template that
acts as a receptacle for the beads. Once the picture
is complete, it is removed with a special double-sided
adhesive foil and is ready to be positioned as required.
The beginner’s kit retails at £52.99, plus a wide
selection of accessories are available to extend the kit.
Also new is Efco’s jewellery making collection of
silver plated lucky charms and beads. Judy Balchin will
be expertly demonstrating her unique jewellery skills.
42 craftfocus
Katy Sue Designs
Stand E04
Tel: +44 (0)1914 274 571
Web: www.flower-soft.com
Flower Soft® is about to launch eight
scrumptious new additions to the Flower
Soft range: delphinium blue, fuchsia, bright
orange, bright blue, bright pink, poppy red,
violet and baby peach, which joins the
recently revamped shades of baby blue and
baby pink. These delicious colours are also
available in three themed selection boxes
enabling customers to buy seven colours
in slightly smaller pots (20ml) at one great
price of £16.99 rrp. Sign up for the free
pre-show workshop and let your creative
imagination run a riot of colour!
B-C-E
Stand H01
Tel: +44 (0)1909 591 808
Web: www.b-craft-e.co.uk
B-C-E, the maker of Stencillos templates and Kimsies Whimsies Decoupage papers, is
launching several new lines at this year’s show.
Initial trials are proving promising for the new Picket Gate template and matching
decoupage papers. The template allows the crafter to make a wooden style gate
that attaches to the front of any card (A5 or larger) to give the impression of an
outdoor scene beyond a gate or fence. As with all B-C-E products, full instructions
are included.
Designed by Kim Sutton to accompany the template are 15 decoupage papers
with outdoor themes suitable for ladies and gents cards.
craft, hobby + stitch
Product Previews
Ribbon Print UK
Stand E26
Tel: +44 (0)8700 420 066
Web: www.yourstrulyuk.com
Ribbon Print has created a new division, Ribbon & Craft
Wholesale, offering beautiful ribbons, exciting craft
materials and tools selected to generate repeat sales in
2009. Visit stand E26 at ICHF and you’ll find exclusive
Nellie Snellen punches and templates plus unique
decoupage characters created by their in-house designer.
Craft, Hobby + Stitch will also see the launch of an
exciting on-line
tutorial series
that you can
use for craft
clubs or in-store
demonstrations,
and of course
come and
see the world
famous Ribbon
Print System and
learn how this
too can boost
your profits.
44 craftfocus
ICHF
International Textile Supplies
Stand L12
Tel: +44 (0)1745 562 120
Web: www.its-sales.co.uk
International Textile Supplies (ITS) offers an extensive
range of exciting and original fleece and fur fabrics. Latest
designs include ‘alphabet’, ‘zig zag’, ‘gingerbread man’ and
‘toy soldier’ print fleece, as well as innovative fabrics such
as micro cuddle fleece. ITS will also be offering special
stocklot lines including vintage print cottons, print baby
cord and printed cotton lawns. These are supplied on a
first come first served basis at low prices.
craftfocus 45
craft, hobby + stitch
Product Previews
Michael Powell
Stand A09
Tel: +44 (0)2920 496 000
Web: www.michaelpowellart.com
Michael Powell continues to expand his range of cross
stitch kits and is launching several new designs including
the Harbour Town (Tenby), Mini Greek Island 9 and English
Village 2. In addition, there is a range of Mini Hill Towns
and some additions to the Little Gems Range of mini beaded
sampler kits.
Michael’s designs are suitable for all levels of expertise from
the beginner to the advanced stitcher.
Michael will also be showing a brand new range of rubber
stamps at Craft, Hobby + Stitch.
Michael Powell’s Company, Cross Stitch Art Ltd, has won
several awards over the last two years for his unique and
quirky designs based on his own artwork, including Designer
of the Year and Kit of the Year at the International Craft,
Hobby + Stitch Awards.
Derwentwater Designs
Stand A16
Tel: +44 (0)1768 480 149
Web: n/a
New from Derwentwater Designs is the captivating Wildlife
series, designed by Rose Swalwell. The inside panel is cross
stitch, while the outside border requires a mixture of cross
stitch and blackwork. Both kits come with metallic thread and
stranded cotton. Priced at £25.60 rrp, each canvas measures
33½cm x 27½cm.
The London Bead Co
Stand A01
Tel: +44 (0)8702 032 323
Web: www.londonbeadco.co.uk
The Applicator Wand is fun for all the family, using hot fix
crystallized TM – Swarovski elements. Very easy to use and can
embellish mostly anything - cards, shoes, jeans, tops to bridal
gowns. It is amazing to see an item you have had for a some
time (too good to throw away) change by embellishing it with
a few crystals. The Applicator Wand is a heating apparatus.
When picking up a crystal the wand heats, melting the special
glue coating on back of crystal till you see small bubbles. It is
then ready to be placed onto item.
46 craftfocus
www.viridianyarn.com
Beadmaster.com are a leading supplier
of loose beads and jewellery making
components to costumiers, jewellers,
designers, dressmakers, dancers and
many more people.
We are dedicated to offer a new
and extensive range of beads and
components to our loyal and new
customers.
Tel: 01924 240 947
Email: sales@beadmaster.com
www.beadmaster.com
r/o 31 Commercial Road
Edmonton, London N18 1TP
Tel: 0208 884 0999
Fax: 0208 884 4666
Email: mcourtsltd@btconnect.com
Website: www.mcourts-haberdashery.co.uk
Wholesale Haberdashery Suppliers
To shops, stalls, schools, colleges, carnival bands,
dress & curtain makers etc.
Please come and visit us at
Stitches at Stand L24
See our huge range, including
Beads, Trimmings, Lace, Buttons, Ribbon,
Sequins, Diamantes, Motifs, Zips, Cords, Thread,
Masks, Feathers, Flowers, Haberdashery, and
much, much more.
ICHF
craft, hobby + stitch
Product Previews
DMC
Stand G30
Tel: +44 (0)116 275 4000
Web: www.dmccreative.co.uk
DMC Creative will be introducing a new
collection of traditional embroidery and cross
stitch kits of favourite childhood characters
including Disney, Flower Fairies, Helo Kitty,
Somebunny to Love, Lickle Ted and much more.
With a full and comprehensive range of products,
including innovative threads for stitching and
crocheting, fabrics,
kits and accessories,
there’s something
for all budgets
and abilities.
©Disney Based
on the “Winnie the
Pooh” works by
A.A. Milne and
E.H. Shepard
Manuscript Pen Co Ltd
Stand F40
Tel: +44 (0)1746 861 236
Web: www.calligraphy.co.uk
Manuscript Pen Co Ltd, an established manufacturer of calligraphy products
and gifts, will be launching its revised range of calligraphy sets in exciting
new packaging this year.
The popular traditional sets have been updated with a stunning new
livery of vibrant reds. The pens themselves, still classic in style, now have
new comfortable grip sections and come in handy modern storage tins.
An extensive selection of inks is also available in the same striking livery
with improved storage cases for cartridges and stylish ink bottles.
These exciting new developments follow the successful launch of the
Scribe Series last year. This is a series of stylised calligraphy pens featuring
specially crafted nibs.
Fiskars
Stand B10
Tel: +44 (0)1656 655 595
Web: www.fiskars.com
Fiskars is celebrating an
astonishing 360 years of
trading this year and is one of
the oldest companies in the world,
starting in and taking its name from a tiny village
near Helsinki in Finland where manufacturing began
in 1649.
The new kids scissor range is sure to steal the
show with their fun and funky colourways. Also
new for this year in the Fiskars Classic range are
the Micro-Tip Big Loops Scissor and the Classic
General Purpose Left Handed Scissor.
craftfocus 51
craft, hobby + stitch
Product Previews
The Beadsmith
(Helby Import Company)
Stand D60
Tel: 732 969 5300 (US)
Web: www.thebeadsmith.com
Two new product lines are being featured this year. The first, Miyuki Delica
beads in retail friendly tubes, are conveniently labelled with colour name,
item number and UPC barcodes. Each pre-packaged, hangable tube
contains around 7.2g of beads. The second new product is Silver Line and
Gold Line fine knitted jewellery wire. This uses the strength and elasticity
of fine plated wire to create a knit which artists can use to create highly
imaginative delicate and supple pieces of jewellery.
Art Van Go
Stand J08
Tel: +44 (0)1438 814 946
Web: www.artvango.co.uk
Art Van Go has been a specialist retailer for the
textile arts for the last 20 years and for the last
seven years has been successfully distributing the
Angelina® range of fusible fibres and film. After a
long established relationship with Jacquard Products,
Art Van Go now represent the California-based
company in the UK. Jacquard Products produce a
superb range of dyes, fabric paints and accessories,
for textile artists and surface designers of all skill
levels, in standard or bulk sizes. The complete range
can be seen at www.jacquardproducts.com.
As well as handling the incredibly popular PrintOn fabrics from Jacquard Inkjet, Art Van Go also
has another US product - ink-jet printable JetFX,
a unique soft-handle, heat-transfer paper for all
fabrics. JetFX is available in retail packs of five sheets
or in bulk for commercial users.
Creative Beadcraft
Stand H47
Tel: +44 (0)1494 776 678
Web: www.creativebeadcraft.co.uk
Creative Beadcraft’s semi-precious range has
been expanded to include new stones in a
variety of different shapes including crystal,
rose quartz, amazonite, carnelian, red jasper
and turquoise. Other recent additions include
chunky pewter beads, large metallised beads
and pendants, big link chain, enamel ceramics
and 12mm fire-polished beads.
In addition to a huge variety of beads and
pendants, including Swarovski crystal beads
and pearls, flat backs and hot fix stones, they carry a wide selection of
components, accessories, kits and project books.
Craft Focus
Stand J38
Tel: +44 (0)1376 514 000
Web: www.craftfocus.com
Don’t forget to pop by the Craft Focus stand in hall 10
to pick up the latest copy of your favourite craft trade
magazine. You can sign up for a free subscription (providing
you work within the industry), or simply talk to a member
of the team. We look forward to seeing you there. Find out
more about Craft Focus magazine by visiting our handy
website (www.craftfocus.com), which is packed full of
information about your industry.
52 craftfocus
craft, hobby + stitch
Product Previews
Glue Dots International
Stand C12
Tel: +44 (0)1274 551 966
Web: www.gluedotseurope.com
Throughout Europe, Glue Dots International has consistently delivered reliable, versatile,
easy-to-use GLUE DOTS® Adhesive Products to scrapbookers and crafters of all ages.
The new DOT N’ Go® adhesive dispenser from Glue Dots International will allow
crafters to cruise through creativity because they apply GLUE DOTS® faster, easier and
with no mess. Visit the new website www.gluedotseurope.com for further information
on the new DOT N’ GO® and all the other GLUE DOTS® products including the
Enthusiast Packs in their newly designed packaging, offering 300 adhesives per box so
the crafting fun lasts even longer.
Marking World Ltd
Stand E66, E68 and G07
Tel: +44 (0)1698 574 567
Web: n/a
Marking World, the sakura pen
distributor, is launching an innovative
new consumer club ‘The Gelly Roll
Club’ at Craft, Hobby + Stitch 2009.
This will reward customers for making a
purchase, thereby driving ongoing sales.
The firm will also be launching a new
children’s colouring range.
Empirical Praxis Ltd
Stand BS18
Tel: +44 (0)1246 556 988
Web: www.epbeads.com
Empirical Praxis Ltd, known as epbeads, is launching
a new instructional DVD. The tiara making DVD
can be purchased as a stand alone product or as
part of a tiara making kit. The kit is sure to appeal
to hobbyists, brides and teenagers indulging in the
American style school proms which are becoming
increasingly popular in the UK. In addition, epbeads
will also be showing their new jewellery making
home business guide which is to be included as a
bonus product with their earring and bracelet DVD
and jewellery making kit.
Versatility In Print
Stand C11
Tel: +44 (0)1905 776 730
Web: www.hotfoiluk.com
Hot Foil Printing Machines are for the serious crafter and a sensible
investment for those people wanting to grow their own business and
create truly unique and bespoke artwork for their own range of cards
and accessories. A Hot Foil Printing Press can easily be an alternative
business in its own right, as the user can print metallic, matt and
holographic colours on a wide range of different stock such as paper,
card (any thickness), leather goods and PVC just a name a few. This neat
little machine only uses a 13 amp plug, is table top mounted, odourless,
no drying time required and product can be used immediately.
54 craftfocus
:RXOG\RXOLNHDSURÀWRQHYHU\VDOH"
CALLIGRAPHY
This jewellery making DVD can be yours to sell with your own branding,
and every time you make a sale you will get at least a 650% profit.
By filling out a simple form and paying a SMALL license fee we will
grant you duplication rights, so that you can duplicate the DVD
on demand and keep all the profits.
The DVD comes with a bonus CD-ROM book, “The jewellery making
home business guide“, designed to appeal to recession weary
crafters and those looking to create an income from home.
For details visit
www.epbeads.co.uk/DVD
or call 01246 556988
New Tiara DVD & Kits Now available
See us at stand no BS18
ICHF
the art of beautiful writing
Visit us at Craft Hobby & Stitch International
NEC Birmingham, 15th - 17th Feruary 2009
Stand F40
Manuscript Pen Company Ltd
Highley, Nr. Bridgnorth, Shropshire WV16 6NN
Tel: +44 1746 861236
Email: manuscript@calligraphy.co.uk
www.calligraphy.co.uk
THE VIKING LOOM
A strong range of first class glass beads.
All available loose or in clear hanging tubes.
The anchor lines are 21 colour themed mixes.
The beads range from 5-16mm in a vast array
of shapes and sizes, well supported by smaller
beads, rocailles and czeck crystals. We are very
competitive on price and service. Hard catalogue
available, please phone or email for details.
We hope to meet you soon.
22 High Petergate
York YO1 7EH
Tel / Fax: +44 (0)1904 620587
E-mail: vikingloom@vikingloom.co.uk
Web: www.vikingloom.co.uk
A new and exiting company supplying
a vast range of findings to shops
and internet retailers only
TRADE-WIRES.CO.UK
Headpins fancy head pins, ball head pins, crimps 3 sizes,
crimp covers, wire protectors, jumprings, round and oval, clasps,
lobster, toggle, magnetic, multistrand, diamante, flower toggle,
elasticated bracelets, bracelet blanks, earrings, fish hook,
lever back, screw on, stud, box clasps, bell cap ends,
diamante charms. Faux suede and cotton cord.
For a catalogue contact
Bead Time
5 Church Road,
Ashford,
Middlesex
TW15 2UG
Tel: 01784 252438
www.beadtime.co.uk
TRADE-WIRES.CO.UK
In the three years since its
launch, Crafter’s Companion
has continued to grow through
its innovative product launches.
Read on to find out more…
Who founded
Sara Davies
Crafter’s
Companion and
what prompted
them to do so?
The company was
founded in 2005
by Sara Davies
whilst she was still
in her final year at
university studying for a Management Degree.
At that time, the industry was upcoming and
expanding at a rapid rate, and Sara could see
many opportunities for new products. The
first product was launched by the company
back in October 2005 and was a simple handheld envelope folding device, which was both
unique and innovative, and it was immediately
a bit hit in the marketplace, selling tens of
thousands in the first few months. The success
of this initial product gave Sara the impetus to
continue developing more products, and the
concept of innovation became the underlying
philosophy of the whole company.
How has the product offering evolved
since this time?
The range of scoring equipment expanded and
innovation
at its finest
evolved and the latest addition to the range
has been the ultimate Crafter’s Companion
Pro which was launched in October 2008
for the company’s 3rd birthday. The 10-in-1
compact carry case incorporates numerous
features for scoring, measuring, trimming,
embossing and embellishing, and was a huge
success for the company from launch. Crafter’s
Companion has also become well known for
its range of interactive crafting CD ROMs, and
more recently for rubber stamp manufacture
as the company teamed up with well-known
craft personality and stamping enthusiast Jayne
Nestorenko back in March 2008.
How do you decide which new products
to take on?
Market research and customer feedback both
form an integral part of product development
at Crafter’s Companion. As all of our products
are designed from scratch, we aim to ensure
the customers’ needs are at the heart of our
development, and we are constantly striving
to improve on both competition in the
marketplace, and also continually improve on
our own innovation. It is also very important to
keep a close eye on oversees markets to spot
upcoming trends.
What are your best-selling craft lines
and why?
Historically our best selling lines have been
the scoring tools we have developed; however,
2008 saw a significant move on our company
strategy as we moved more into the stamping
market. We invented, patented and launched
an innovative stamp-mounting system back
in March 2008 known as the ‘Rock a Blocks’
and this new system has really revolutionised
the stamping market. Demand was incredible
58 craftfocus
when we first launched as we had hundreds
of stamping and craft stores clamouring to
get their hands on these new blocks, and
the reviews we had for the product were
unbelievable. We went on to launch the
product in the States in the summer, and again
they have just taken the American market by
storm. We have new additions planned for the
range in 2009 as we launch two new sizes at
the Craft, Hobby + Stitch show.
Do you exhibit at any craft trade
shows? If so, which ones and why?
The big trade show of the year for us is the
Craft, Hobby + Stitch International Trade
Show in Birmingham. We find it’s a great
opportunity to meet with our customers face
to face – sometimes the only opportunity
we get all year. We put a lot of emphasis on
demonstrations on our stand, because we feel
it is important that the customer gets to see
the products in action for themselves.
As we market our products internationally
as well as domestically, we also exhibit at the
CHA Winter and Summer shows in America,
and historically we always exhibit as part of
the British Pavilion at Paperworld in Frankfurt,
however this year we will be holding Make-ntakes and demonstrations on our European
distributor’s stand – Rayher to help them
increase awareness of our range.
How do you support your retailers?
We keep our retailers 100% up to date on
product development and key dates for
product launches so that they can be well
prepared for new products being released.
We also produce a number of selling-aids for
our retailers including posters, leaflets and
demonstration booklets, as well as point of
The Best Suppliers
Of Pick and Mix Card
sale units for some of our products. We also have a number
of trained demonstrators who are available to specialist
demonstration days in stores which we support with marketing
and personalised leaflets and tickets for each store.
How are you being affected, if at all, by the current
‘credit crunch’ and are you taking any steps to
minimise the impact to your business?
I believe this year is going to be a telling time for our industry,
and I believe our key to success is going to be again through
innovation. If we strive to ensure we are continually developing
products which are unique and different, and for which there
is genuine need in the marketplace (which we will establish
through furthering our market research). If we couple this with
extensive retailer support to ensure that our products are
being correctly showcased and demonstrated in stores, then
I’m hoping we will minimise the negative impact the economic
climate may have on our business.
My advice to retailers would be to look to innovate in their
stores, and in their offering to the customer. Any company
which chooses to compete on price can have no long-term
future beyond the current credit crunch, but by changing your
offering to the customer, promoting loyalty schemes in store,
running more classes and demonstrations and bringing the
customer closer to you will mean you benefit not only in the
short term through this crisis, but also when the credit crunch
has long passed.
How do you plan to grow your existing retailer base?
Our focus for 2009 is to attract new stores by further
expanding our product range. Our range has continued to
grow and diversify over the three years we have been trading,
and if we look to continue this diversification to the point
where we have something to offer every store – irrespective
of their target customer base, then we should be able to
appeal to a much wider audience.
How would you like the company to develop over the
next few years?
We would like to continue expanding our product portfolio,
and also we aim to partner with more companies and crafting
individuals to bring more creativity and more varied design
ideas to Crafter’s Companion.
We are also looking to further expand our range oversees,
particularly into Europe and America where we have already
seen strong demand for our range, and where we are keen
to develop our brand into a household craft name within the
coming years. C
Leading Suppliers of
Pick and Mix Card
Range of units to fit all premises
Widest selection of card
Low initial outlay
No contract required
Payper Box replenishes with stock of
YOUR choice NOT ours
Card can also be
purchased separately
New Imported Range of
Scrapbooking Papers from America!
Unit 8, The Metro Centre,
Ronsons Way, St Albans,
HERTS, AL4 9QT
Tel: 01727 836665
Fax: 01727 831088
craftfocus 59
Rat-A-Tat Crafts
STAMPATTACK
42 Catforth Avenue, Blackpool, Lancashire FY4 4SF
24a Enterprise Way
Hardwick Industrial Estate
Kings Lynn, Norfolk PE30 4LJ
01553 766380
sales@ratatatcrafts.co.uk
www.ratatatcrafts.co.uk
Tel: 01253 764466
Email: stampattack.carol@googlemail.com
www.stampattack.co.uk
papercrafts
sheets ahead
We take a look at the top papercraft
trends for 2009 and beyond…
Papercrafts is a craft sector that unites all ages and abilities,
from a three-year-old making a simple Mother’s Day card, to a
grandmother perfecting the ar t of decoupage. It’s also a sector that
easily attracts new customers, whether it’s a bride-to-be making
her wedding invitations or a new mother star ting a scrapbook for
her young baby. The key is to keep the product offering fresh and
exciting, and targeted towards the customer base.
Keeping an eye on upcoming trends enables retailers to stay
one step ahead and, for 2009, there are a number of lines that no
retailer should be without. Templates, for example, have always
been a crafting staple, but with a flurry of new designs in fresh
materials, there’s going to be a huge resurgence in their popularity.
Not only do templates make crafting easier, but they also help to
create a professional finish that would be much more difficult to
achieve otherwise.
Another big trend that will continue into 2009 is the popularity
of products aimed at enthusiastic amateurs. With so many
demands, customers are increasingly searching out craft lines where
great results can be achieved in very little time. This is why die-cut
decoupage and stackers are seeing such strong sales, and this will
continue for the foreseeable future, so long as manufacturers and
suppliers continue to produce innovative new designs.
We speak to three craft companies to find out more about this
flourishing sector…
Jon Sutton, B-C-E
What types of papercraft products are currently seeing
strong sales?
Decoupage and stackers seem to be very popular at the
moment, as are products for ‘large’ cards.
How does this compare with a year/two years ago?
Large cards are quite a new phenomenon.
How do B-C-E products differ from others on the market?
B-C-E products are designed, made and packaged in house and
are tailored specifically for UK crafters.
How does papercrafts compare to other craft sectors in
terms of consumer appeal?
Results can be achieved with as little or large time investment
as desired whereas a needlecrafts project, for example, will
require a relatively large time investment.
How do you see the papercrafts market developing over the
next few years?
As long as designers can produce new and exciting ideas, the
market should continue to grow.
Describe some of your newest lines.
Our new designs include cantilever card templates in two
sets of four templates, a picket gate template, picket gate
decoupage, texture papers in brick, stone and wood effects.
Also new are Rollerz football themed decoupage paper kits for
the rolling cards.
craftfocus 61
sheets ahead
Jayne Bentley, Colour My World
Gill Grant, Hobby Habit Ltd
When did you notice a niche in the market for the style of
templates you produce for Colour My World?
I first noticed a niche in the marketplace for the type of
templates we do a few years ago. I owned a craft shop and held
weekly classes, and whenever we used templates the ladies in
the class would get worried about how to add the finishing
touches. If it required a face, I always had to draw it on or draw
a mark where the brads etc needed to go. It star ted me thinking
how a template that had all the inner pieces inside, so you could
draw around each piece and get it right every time without
much thought, would be amazing.
What types of papercraft products are currently seeing
strong sales?
Die cut decoupage is still very popular as it allows the crafter
to put together beautiful projects quickly and easily without the
need for laborious cutting out. Twisters and stackers, including the
die cut variety, are also proving extremely popular.
Would you say this is one of the newest ‘trends’ in papercrafts
and why?
Templates have always been popular with crafters but how we
have changed the ‘traditional’ style of template is definitely a
new trend. Also, the matarial we use is polypropylene so it’s
extremely durable, washable and acid and lignin free. This means
that the Colour My World More Than Words Templates can
actually be used as the product itself – the customer can simply
use alcohol-based inks to stamp images onto it and adhere
patterned papers and photos to the back of each letter (they
can be seen as the templates are translucent). The finished result
is a stunning unique card/album.
How do Hobby Habit products differ from other papercraft
lines on the market?
Hobby Habit products differ in that we are a dab hand at bringing
out fresh new designs to keep our customers interested. At the
for thcoming Craft, Hobby + Stitch show, for instance, we will
have new designs from TV demonstrator, Nancy Watt, and her
popular Ladies of Fashion range. The Victorian and Edwardian
range is going to be hot news for 2009 as well as a new 1950s
retro range from Tim Wright. Of course, we carry a huge range
of stickers, card and accessories as well as decoupage, twisters
and stackers.
What are your plans for growing the brand and how can
retailers maximise sales of the templates?
This year will see Colour My World add its own paper range
that will complement all our templates. They will be available
on CD. Not only will all the papers match but there will be
complementing poems/sayings, tags and stamped images.
We have gone all-out this year and introduced a range of A4
templates in our most popular designs. My favourite has to be
the cupcake – it’s so huge and fab. I just wish I could actually
make one for real that size!
We are also working on a range of class kits; these will be
invaluable for craft stores that supply our products and wish to
use them in a class to show how easy and versatile they are. It
will also help our retailers to maximise their sales. Fur thermore,
we find that if our retailers make samples of our products and
display them next to the products, this makes a big difference.
62 craftfocus
How does this compare with a year/two years ago?
Two years ago it was more craft based. Now the trend has moved
towards papercraft products and making these easier and quicker
to use for a growing market.
How does papercrafts compare to other craft sectors in terms
of consumer appeal?
There has been an explosion in the popularity of papercrafts in
the last few years and we believe this is because of the everwidening range of excellent products available. It is a hobby
suitable for all ages and skill levels and beginners can become
proficient and produce beautiful projects in a shor t space of time.
How do you see the papercrafts market developing over the
next few years?
We believe that papercrafts will continue to grow in popularity
but crafters will want to learn new skills and incorporate more
challenging techniques into their projects. That’s why we are
looking at introducing a new exclusive range of licensed products
for 2009. Sorry, can't say any more about this as we're just signing
on the dotted line!
papercrafts
We take a look at some of the newest papercrafts lines about…
Fiskars
www.fiskarscraft.co.uk
Fiskars has released a terrific range of papercrafting
sets called Fiskars Consumables in a variety of different
designs that cover themes, colours and occasions
such as weddings and engagements. Each set contains
six sheets of specially designed and printed 12”x12”
cardstock papers, a selection of number and/or alpha
stickers, and a host of complementary extras such as
cardstock tag stickers, chipboard titles and tags, flourish
rub-ons and more, in fact everything your customers
need to make the best cards, scrapbooks, gift tags
and papercrafting designs. Well presented in clear
and attractive looking packaging, these new Fiskars
Consumables Sets cost £9.99 each and are sure to be a
welcome addition to the Fiskars range.
Crafters Companion
www.crafterscompanion.co.uk
This spring sees the launch of an exciting new product
range from Crafter’s Companion as they officially unveil
their par tnership with F Warne & Co as the official
papercrafts licensee of the Flower Fairies Collection.
Previewing at Craft, Hobby + Stitch, the initial range will
comprise three CD Roms and six coordinating stamp
collections. Each CD includes design collections from
two of the fairies, and they are available individually or
as a collector’s edition triple disc box set. Each of the
stamp sets is A5 in size and contains a large and a small
size fairy along with quirky fairy sentiments, borders,
corners and accessories. Each set comes individually
packaged with its own project ideas booklet and is
pressed on unique mint-green rubber in keeping with
the Flower Fairies brand.
Trimcraft
www.trimcraft.co.uk
Fresh from Trimcraft are the Smirk papercraft products. Band new for
2009, items in this range include paper packs, clear stamps, rub-ons, fibres,
buttons, glitter markers and tags in two unique collections.
Smirk Love & Friendship features cute characters that say ‘I love you’
or simply ‘thanks for being a friend’ in an adorable way. Soft colours and
meaningful words mix delightfully in this range of paper craft products.
Smirk Naughty but Nice is an assor tment of mischievous characters
and innocent angels which are perfect for a par ty princess or a little devil.
Colourful characters and funny, good humoured, sentiments make up this
cheeky collection.
craftfocus 65
craft trends
2009
Stephanie Weightman reveals her top tips for the year ahead
When the Craft, Hobby + Stitch International
show finally arrives I believe many of us
express a huge sigh of relief. For the retailers
it means they can finally order and get new
stock into their stores after the long months
of Christmas crafting and hopefully short
sale weeks. For the companies and designers
exhibiting they get to see how their new
ranges are received; but more importantly
if the colours, designs and trends they have
promoted been picked up on and accepted.
With a background in textile and fashion
design, I know how important trend
information really is and for me the process
starts months prior to designing a range.
Having studied lifestyle, colour, fashion, and
interior trends for 2009 I hope my crystal ball
doesn’t let me down when I predict the craft
trends. Especially as this year I am exhibiting my
very own range of papercraft products under
the “Craft with Stephanie” brand name.
This year lifestyle trends are all about being
more environmentally friendly. Recycling, saving
money, being clever (meaning “don’t move
– improve”) these are already becoming buzz
words.
Environmentally friendly means papercraft
CDs will become more of an everyday item
in a crafter’s stash. The ability to print to
order without the problem of storing large
amounts of printed paper will become even
more desirable. For the retailer it will be more
imperative to stock the range of specialist
papers that will be the blank canvas for the
crafter to print on to; vellum and acetate being
two of them. These materials work perfectly
66 craftfocus
for the trend for ethereal designs, where
layering with transparency will be big.
Recycling is one of my favorite trends
because I think this will allow us to see a
revival in stamping. The established stampers
can bring out their old stamps, (of course
they won’t be able to resist buying new ones),
and try them on new surfaces, with new inks
and new techniques. These will include use
of water-colours and stamping onto different
surfaces such as holographic, metallic materials
“This year lifestyle trends
are all about being more
environmentally friendly.
Recycling, saving money, being
clever (meaning “don’t move
– improve”) these are already
becoming buzz words.”
and card. Combining pearl and gloss materials
will be a hot trend too. Stamping onto different
surfaces like acetate will also provide the
outline for beginners and more experienced
crafters alike, to try glass painting for the first
time and help revitalise this technique. From a
crafting point of view, recycling also means we
will have the perfect opportunity to explore
this trend and create fabulous projects for
around the home.
Paper folding will fulfill the trend for
being smart, not in a moving context but by
providing us with techniques that lead us into
advanced paper mechanics and origami. They
will include dimensional template kits and an
“Bright colours return to the
top 10 list and leading colour
experts Pantone are promoting
mimosa yellow as a colour that
will be included in many design
palettes. I see blue as this year’s
number one colour, closely
followed by fuchsia red, salmon
and then lavender.”
increase in popularity for die or pattern cutting
equipment. Using the right glues and paper or
card stock will become part of the education
process and demonstrations that display
finished projects will undoubtedly create the
“Wow” factor. I see us having clearly defined
different skill levels in this sector. Weaving with
ribbons and card stock could also find a place
within this technique folder.
Bright colours return to the top 10 list and
leading colour experts Pantone are promoting
mimosa yellow as a colour that will be included
in many design palettes. I see blue as this year’s
number one colour, closely followed by fuchsia
red, salmon and then lavender.
Finally, as with every desirable product in life,
design will lead all of these things. Re-vamped
vintage, hollywood glamour, ethereal, art
nouveau, art deco and complimentary ranges
that enable the customer to not only cross
purchase items and techniques, but to also
combine them with their existing craft supplies
will be the winners in 2009. C
improving business
efficiency in tough times
With the outlook for 2009 looking pretty grim, we can expect tough times on
the high street. So what is an independent craft retailer to do? One approach
is to batten down the hatches and hope the cold winds of recession will pass
over. An alternative, more proactive approach is to use this time to make
the business stronger, more efficient and better equipped to deal with the
changing competitive climate in the years to come.
In the first of a series on retail technology for tough times, expert David
Mackley looks at how retailers can improve business efficiency through technology. The reward
for those who get it right is a thriving and more profitable business when the economy turns
upwards again.
68 craftfocus
Important
Urgent
Not Important
Good news stories are few and far between
at the moment. However, one area of retail
that has taken big leaps forward in recent
years is technology for independent retailers.
Computers are now cheaper and more
powerful than ever. Retail software has moved
far beyond EPoS (Electronic Point of Sale)
into comprehensive tools to help manage a
modern retail business, and many have point
and click screens making them easy to use
even for the computer novice.
So, how can technology help? Well one key
area is improving business efficiency. And the
best places to start are the big three cost
areas: staff, property and stock. In the coming
issues we will look at each of these starting
here with staff effectiveness.
Staff effectiveness is about working efficiently.
Working effectively means getting the most
out of your time. Good time management
really helps. A time management technique
used in many successful companies is the
urgent/important grid. This grid allows you
to identify which tasks are urgent and which
are important, and then you can prioritise
accordingly. If you have not seen this before
the results may surprise or even scare you.
Urgent tasks are deadline based like
those pressing tasks that must be completed
Not Urgent
Quadrant 1: Important / Urgent
• Serve customers
• Manage customer returns
• Discounts
• Stock replenishment
• Place orders
• Receive orders
• Tidy shop
• Cash up
• Keeping the books
• Manage website
Quadrant 2: Important / Not Urgent
• Range planning for profitable
product lines
• Sell more to existing customers
• Make more of suppliers
• Keep customers coming back
more often
• Find new customers
• Sell into more channels such as
the internet
Quadrant 3: Not important /
Urgent
• Trivial requests from others
• Apparent emergencies
• Ad-hoc interruptions and
distractions
• Accumulated unresolved
trivia
Quadrant 4: Not important /
Not Urgent
• ‘Comfort’ activities,
net surfing, excessive
coffee breaks
• Chat, gossip, social
communications
• Lower value activities like tidy
stock room or updating filing
Figure 1. Time management grid.
immediately. Urgent tasks are not always
important. Important tasks give a positive
answer to the question; “Will the activity I am
about to participate in make a significant and
long lasting impact on my business?” The grid
shows an example for a retailer.
The fact is that retailers spend most of their
time in Quadrant 1 and 3. Yet it is those tasks
retail technology
in Quadrant 2 that are critical to business
success. The problem is there are so many
Quadrant 1 and 3 things to be done, a retailer
has nowhere near enough time for Quadrant
2. Yet these are the tasks that will change the
business for the better.
The answer is that retailers have to get a
handle on the Quadrant 1 tasks to make time
for Quadrant 2... but how?
This is one area where computers can make
a real difference. They are just naturally very
good at doing repetitive tasks. They can make
it much quicker to manage customer enquiries,
discounts, special orders, replenishment, reorders and minimise book-keeping. They can
add control and simplicity and really can put
hours back into a day.
Reducing time in Quadrant 1
Here are some areas where computers help
retailers save time. If more than half of these
apply to your shop, how much time might it
save you?
Serve customers: With barcodes and
prices built in to the system, serving
customers becomes so much faster and more
accurate. So you have to add the stock in the
first place but adding stock gives you benefits
across many Quadrant 1 and 2 activities. Once
you have done it there are many efficiency
improvements. In craft retailing, many products
don’t have barcodes and this is fine as well,
they can be sold from the stock system
without stock codes very quickly, failing that
hotkeys can be used.
Even if the percentage of products not on
the system is 50 per cent, it still means that
the other 50 per cent will be stock controlled
and real improvements gained.
1
2
Manage customer returns: By scanning
the sales receipt the transaction is
identified, the return button will issue a refund
or credit note and add the item back to stock
so it can immediately put it on the shelf again.
Discounts: Instant price changes can be
applied, then a simple POS sign applied
and all the till prices will be correct.
3
Stock replenishment: First thing in the
morning, a report can be printed that
shows which stock needs to be replenished.
4
Place orders: The system shouldn’t
dictate what you are selling, it should
make recommendations to you. It can make
good recommendations by analysing sales
trends and profitability of each line. You then
have information at your fingertips to help
make the right decisions quickly. Because
all the supplier information and many of
the products are on the system, reordering
existing products is easy. And adding a new
product to the order is very simple as well
and once you have done it, it never needs to
be done again.
5
Receive orders: When orders come in
they are booked into the system. Any
item found damaged on delivery is dealt with
quickly. A system can automatically create
a returns letter explaining how many items
were received faulty which can be immediately
faxed to the supplier.
6
Handle customer queries: The system
will keep a record of customers so any
queries about special orders, handling deposits
or a Christmas club can be dealt with quickly
and efficiently.
7
and will allow you to check your total when
you cash up and help track where any
discrepancies are more quickly.
Keeping the books: Many retailers
do a lot of their own bookkeeping,
and it takes ages. Well the computer system
will track all sales values and VAT. A report will
give the information needed to be passed to
the accountant.
10
Manage website: Adding and
removing products can be time
consuming. With a multichannel stock system
you only need to add a product once for the
shop, then the information is already there
for the website as well. Name, cost, price etc.
is already there, all that is needed is a picture
and additional text. A computer system saves
duplicating effort by doing everything once.
11
These are some of the ways in which
computers can save staff time, they can
add up to a large percentage. This can be
important, even fundamental to the success
of the business as it allows precious time to
be spent on the vital Quadrant 2 activities to
push the business forward. In the next issue,
staying on the subject of staff effectiveness
we will look at how computers can help with
some of the Quadrant 2 activities in the time
management grid.
David Mackley MBA BSc is MD of Intelligent
Retail, award winning multichannel EpoS and
eCommerce for craft retailers. He can be
contacted on +44 (0)845 680 0126 or at
dmackley@intelligentretail.co.uk C
Tidy shop: There is not much here that
can be done by a computer - well not
yet anyway.
8
9
Cashing up: A computer will keep a
record of all cash and card transactions
craftfocus 69
four years on
Blue Haze Arts & Crafts opened its doors nearly four years
ago and is hoping to ride out the current economic storm
by doing what it knows best – listening to customers and
providing the products they want. Owner Hazel Hopkinson
takes up the story so far…
What was your personal brief when first
starting out in terms of product lines, aims
and objectives?
Based on my own experience as a crafter, I had
a basic idea of what I wanted and/or needed
to stock, I visited a local craft group that
bowled me over with its enthusiasm for me
opening a craft shop in Chesham. The group
really did help me decide on what to stock
with regards to what was fashionable etc and
as importantly, what not to stock. I also listened
very carefully to my prospective suppliers.
When did you open the shop?
We opened our doors for the first time on
Saturday 23rd April 2005.
Was it your first retail venture?
Yes, it was a very daunting task, though “we”
(my husband and I) did go into the business
with our eyes open, having both worked for
small companies for over 10 years, though in a
different field. We knew exactly what we were
taking on.
Are you an avid crafter and how did your
interest begin?
Yes, I have been a crafter all my life, from a
very early age I remember making clothes for
my dolls and as I got older and taller, clothes
for myself, as the choice for tall people at the
time wasn’t as good as it is now. My mother
taught me to knit, sew and all the things that
mums used to teach but don't seem to do so
much now, it seems to be a grandmother’s job
nowadays. Knitting, for instance, has missed a
whole generation. Perhaps I'm showing my age.
70 craftfocus
How important is your location and what is
your main customer base?
Personally, I think it more important to have a
nice location, rather than to be in the main hub
of a town. Blue Haze Arts & Crafts is situated
just off the main High Street in Chesham, on
the quaint Market Square, which benefits from
very good parking facilities. We have a lovely
tearoom next door, which is pre-requisite for
visiting a craft shop! I have found that crafters
don't mind travelling, I have visitors from Essex
who specifically come to Chesham to see Blue
Haze, I've also had visitors from Australia, USA
and Canada who also made a point of visiting
Blue Haze whilst on their travels. But, my
main customer base is in fact the crafters of
Chesham and the local surrounding areas.
How and where do you source your new
crafting products?
Via my current suppliers. I am very wary of
having too many suppliers, so stick to the
ones I have been dealing with over the last
four years. I keep a very watchful eye on what
the current craft magazines are advertising, as
well as what is shown on the television and
internet. I also listen to my customers needs, if
I don’t stock something, I will always try to get
it in for them.
Will you be going to the Craft, Hobby +
Stitch International trade show at the NEC
Birmingham this February?
Oh yes!
Do you always attend?
Yes, I first attended the show before we
opened the shop, it proved to be a valuable
source of contacts.
It’s an ideal opportunity to see all the stock
on display rather than from a catalogue or
when the sales representative visits.
What yardstick do you use for measuring the
potential of a new product?
I have got to know what my main clientele
like, though I do like to deviate a little. I rely
greatly on what is recommended by my sales
representatives though, as we have found what
works in one area, may not always work in
our area. The secret is to listen to what the
customers are asking for.
What is the latest crafting craze and best
selling lines?
There’s nothing too crazy at the moment,
just a nice steady flow of everything, but
predominantly jewellery and card making and
of course knitting. We’re also benefiting from
retailer
interview
retailer
interview
the fashion for customisation at the moment,
which is great to see.
What sort of relationship do you enjoy with
your suppliers?
I’d like to think a very good one, they
support me, and I support them. Generally,
my suppliers have lots of experience. They
understand that the business is still growing so
they don’t put too much pressure on me to
take too much stock. They are very supportive
by sending through ready made up samples of
cards for instance, and sending an extra stamp
pad or two if it’s mentioned that we’re holding
a workshop, or sending a garment’s worth of
yarn to knit something up.
How can your craft shop compete with the
larger multiples?
We are not a large multiple, so we don’t want
to compete with them. Our premises are a
quaint 16th century listed building in a lovely
small town. We have specialist knowledge of all
the products that come through the door and
we’re cheerful and happy.
Describe the style and presentation of your
shop - how important is visual merchandising
to you?
Blue Haze is a very colourful shop, modern
and organised, but eclectic, often described
as an “Aladdin’s cave”. It’s packed full of
wonderful shiny coloured things, including
Anchor Tapestry Wool, embroidery threads,
paints, pencils, embroidery beads, coloured
card, knitting yarns, sewing threads, the list
goes on and on! Visual merchandising is very
important, if a display doesn’t look right, then
the product won’t sell, it’s as simple as that!
Ronnie who works with us has 25 years’ retail
experience and has taught us a number of
lessons about how to make stock visually
attractive. Sometimes the most obvious things
go unnoticed.
Did you launch the workshops as soon as
opened the shop?
No, though we did have demonstrations going
on throughout the opening day! We actually
started the workshops a couple of months
after opening, once we’d got a feel of what was
needed in the town.
How important are they to the success of
the business?
Very important, we try to keep the cost of
the workshops to a minimum, as they increase
sales in the shop. This then has a knock on
effect as those taking part tend to pass on
what they have learnt to other people, which
in turn produces more sales.
What range of crafts do the in-store
workshops cover?
Our workshops cover almost everything
connected with the products we sell, the
favourite card making, parchment craft,
encaustic art, jewellery making, knitting and
crochet, watercolour, drawing, soft pastel art
and sewing based classes too.
How important is customer service to you?
Very, very important. I like to pride ourselves
on our exceptional customer service. We
uphold that the customer is always right!
How important is your online presence?
Again very important, though up until now we
haven’t offered online ordering, but that will
be addressed this year. We are investing in a
wonderful new website, which will have lots of
our lovely stock available to order at a click of
a mouse.
What have been the major changes you have
noticed since you've been open?
(I have more grey hair!) The trend to “make
your own” has returned, thankfully. Whether it’s
knitting, jewellery making or card making. There
are those life time crafters who have always
pursued their love of craft, but if it becomes
too difficult to source products, then the
interest does wane.
Your views on the state of the market?
I personally think that a good craft shop should
be able to survive these hard economic times.
It’s fashionable to make do and mend and of
course make your own. It also appears that
people are still willing to spend money on
what could be classified as a leisure activity.
Top tips for survival in the current economic
climate?
Personally, I’m trying to ride the storm, aswell
as not overspending!
Plans for the future?
Our immediate plans are to have wider web
exposure, it is vitally important to be able to
sell products on the internet. C
Further information
For more details visit the website at
www.blue-haze.co.uk
craftfocus 71
advertising feature
create a colourful
world with
Flair Plc is a leading innovator and TV
advertiser of craft and creative play concepts
for children; the ideal first call for the most
inspirational of kits around. This company
combines the very oldest of brands such as
Plasticine with innovative new concepts that
will encourage kids’ creative juices to flow.
One new innovation is Wammy, the patented,
tactile new toy from Japan that allows a girl
to make whatever she wants using multicoloured common-shaped pieces. Each soft,
pliable piece can be flexed and connected
in a variety of ways to create anything from
small, cute models of animals to huge themed
scenes. Perfect for inspiring the imagination,
there are many sized kits to collect; from
themed packs of 18 pieces to a bumper 200
piece set with endless creative opportunities.
Each set contains pastel-coloured Wammy
pieces, plus detailed instructions showing
project ideas to get a girl started, but once
she has the Wammy habit a girl’s imagination
will be the only limit! Wammy will be
supported by a massive TV campaign that
really shows the versatility of this fabulous
new concept, plus covermounts, point of sale
materials and in-store demo DVD.
Disney licensed creative play sets featuring
Hannah Montana, High School Musical and
Disney Princess are also high on the agenda
thanks to a completely new range with
concepts that are distinctive for each. This
is so much more than character versions
72 craftfocus
of an existing product as each set has been
lovingly designed incorporating key features
from each licence, such as the delightful
Fairytale Beadazzles; a kit that takes its
inspiration from sun-catchers to create a
bejewelled tiara, wand and looking glass. With
a variety of products available and featuring
some patented products, this range will be
supported with a comprehensive marketing
campaign including TV advertising, point of
sale, in-store fun days, competitions and much,
much more.
These Disney sets form just part of a wide
selection of licensed themed kits that are
always popular as gifts for children who want
to blend creativity with their own favourite
characters such as Ben 10, Doctor Who, In
the Night Garden and Peppa Pig to name but
a few.
from. These pens have a patented mechanism
that allows a child to blend two or more
colours in a single move. To create the
colour fusion, simply join the nibs in the pen’s
fusion chamber and twist. The result is a truly
remarkable technicolour blend. The Blendy
Pens Surprise Art Box is just one new line
with its 12 Blendy Pens, 6 fusion chambers,
posters which reveal surprise patterns as you
colour, sticker sheets and backgrounds.
Alternatively, the patented Color Splitz
creates remarkable 3D effects while Sprayza
is the new patented and no-fuss airbrush
system that will create wonderful soft focus
images either on their own or with the
stencils provided.
Plasticine is always a favourite and has
fabulous new packs and play sets to inspire
young master modellers. Flair still produces
the Classic 8 Strip Pack, loved by generations
and ideal for that vital component in other
craft projects, but has also transformed the
brand with innovative themed sets such as My
Own Morph and the new Crazy Wheels and
Animals sets.
Last but not least, a new concept is to be
introduced that will delight both young and
old crafters. Tooby Woobies is the fabulous
new set centred on a nifty gadget that
magically transforms drinking straws into just
about anything you want. Fashion accessories,
decorations and trinket boxes can all be
created once you know how.
Another art medium that is always a favourite
is colouring pens and Flair has a wide
selection of creative new pen concepts that
each has its own twist: - Blendy Pens are a
fine example with five new sets to choose
This is just a small taster of all that’s available
as Flair also other names such as Shaker
Maker, Cool Cardz and Teeny Meez but for
more information call +44(0)208 643 0320
or email sales@flairplc.co.uk C
cha summer show
cha summer show
Now taking up a new residence in Orlando, the CHA Summer
Show has much to offer. Read on to find out more…
In Brief
Show: CHA Summer Show
Location: Orange County Convention
Center, Florida
Dates: 28th-30th July 2009
Website: www.chashow.org
The CHA Summer Show is the largest
summer trade show in the craft and hobby
industry, with over 7,400 attendees travelling
to the annual show. The CHA Summer Show
enjoys solid international representation
with about 20% of attendance composed
of exhibitors from more than 30 different
countries, including good representation from
the UK. Most importantly, the Summer Show
is the key buying event of the season with 97%
of buyers reportedly purchasing products as a
direct result of attendance.
For the first time in the show’s history, it will
move from the Donald E Stephens Convention
Centre in Rosemont, Illinois, to the Orange
County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.
This, the CHA anticipates, will stimulate general
craft interest and help accelerate growth of the
$30 billion dollar craft and hobby industry.
The show will run from 28th-30th July 2009,
with education starting on 27th July 2009. As if
this wasn’t change enough, the CHA Summer
Show days have also changed to run Tuesday
“Orlando is an international
destination built on
creativity and imagination
so it’s a perfect partnership
for us to host this show and
its innovative products.”
through Thursday to allow more buyers to
attend without weekend conflict.
“We are excited about holding the Summer
Show in Orlando,” explained Steve Berger,
CHA, Chief Executive Officer. “Over the past
30 years the Summer Show has established
a reputation for being the summer’s premier
craft and hobby event; we are eager to
enhance that reputation and legacy by
introducing this incredible show to the dynamic
destination location that is Orlando.”
CHA will continue to offer extensive,
industry-leading educational programs, handson workshops, and business-building seminars
to provide members with the insight needed
to compete more successfully in an increasingly
competitive world.
“Orlando is an international destination
built on creativity and imagination so it’s a
perfect partnership for us to host this show
and its innovative products,” said Gary C. Sain,
president and CEO of the Orlando/Orange
County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc.
“We’re thrilled to be working with the Craft &
Hobby Association and look forward to a fun
and successful event for all attendees.” C
Further information
To learn more about the upcoming 2009
CHA Summer Convention & Trade Show,
including exhibitor registration, travel
discounts, and other important information,
visit www.chashow.org
craftfocus 73
craft for charity
craft for charity
Craft retailers can become the hub of the community by supporting
and instigating initiatives that raise money for charity.
Read on to find out more…
From coffee mornings and fun runs, to
masquerade balls and swims across the
Channel, there are all sor ts of ways to raise
money for charity. However, in terms of
creative input, sense of achievement and
community spirit, crafting is one of the best.
Fur thermore, the craft retailer is perfectly
placed to coordinate local effor ts, whether
customers are asked to ‘Create a Card for
Cancer Care’, or simply to knit a square
that can be collected, then sewn into
blankets for the local care home.
Aside from raising money for a wor thy
cause, such charitable initiatives can bring
craft shops other rewards including loyal
custom, a good reputation, positive press
coverage, new customers and increased
sales. After-all, those customers par ticipating
in the latest charity craft initiative will need
to purchase their supplies from somewhere!
What’s more, craft retailers can choose
to suppor t existing nationwide craft
initiatives which, no doubt, will come
with plenty of advice for par ticipants, or
instigate their own, perhaps suppor ting a
local charity, which will help to foster vital
community spirit.
Read on for two top nationwide craft
initiatives that would be wor th promoting
to customers…
Create a Card for Cancer Care
This year is the four th year that ‘do crafts’
has been suppor ting Marie Curie Cancer
Care with its ‘Create a Card for Cancer
Care campaign’. Once again, the firm is
encouraging avid crafters nationwide to get
creative and make A6 cards for the charity
to sell in its shops. The campaign kicked off
on 1 st January 2009 and crafters have until
the end of April 2009 to make and send in
their cards.
‘do crafts’ is providing specially designed
Marie Curie Cancer Care A6 Card Bags
which can be picked up from local ‘do
crafts’ stockists and Marie Curie Cancer
Care stores nationwide. Crafters simply
need to send one handmade card per bag
to the address provided to take par t. The
cards will then be sold in the charity’s 180
shops across the UK. Cards made especially
for the campaign by fellow crafters are
currently on sale for £1 each. Visit the
website www.mariecurie.org.uk/shop to find
your local Marie Curie Cancer Care shop.
To suppor t the campaign ‘do crafts’ is
also selling a limited edition Clear Stamp
set from Papermania for crafters to use
on their cards. This fabulous stamp set is
available at ‘do crafts’ stockists nationwide
for £4.99, with £2 from every stamp sold
donated to Marie Curie Cancer Care.
All funds raised will help to provide
Marie Curie Nurses who care for terminally
ill people in their own homes, surrounded
by the people who matter to them most.
Visit www.create-a-card-for-cancer-care.org
for more information on how to suppor t
this annual campaign.
For inspiring project ideas for the
2009 campaign and to see how you can
incorporate your new limited edition
craftfocus 75
Papermania stamp visit the ‘do crafts’
website www.docrafts.co.uk.
The Big Knit
Perhaps one of the strangest craft
initiatives about, The Big Knit, involves
knitting miniature hats to fit over the top
of innocent fruit drinks. These hat-topped
beverages are then sold through Sainsbury’s
stores nationwide, with 50p per drink being
donated to Age Concern.
Back in 2003 when the initiative was
launched, 20,000 miniature hats were
knitted to raise over £10,000 for Age
Concern. Since then, The Big Knit has grown
ever y single year, raising over £370,000. Age
Concern provides services that suppor t
older people in winter, including hot meals,
room thermometers, warm blankets, safety
checking electric blankets and advice on
how to handle rising energy costs.
Craft retailers can get involved by
requesting The Big Knit Kit, which contains
everything required for happy hat making.
Indeed, the kit contains patterns, posters,
invites, and even a hatometer, thereby
making hosting an in-store crafting event a
breeze; just give your customers plenty of
notice, stock up on biscuits and drinks, and
enjoy the fruits of your labour. This year,
The Big Knit is aiming for over 500,000 hats,
which would result in a £250,000 donation
from Sainsbury’s and innocent. The deadline
for completed hats is 17 th October 2009.
Fur ther details can be found on the website
www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/thebigknit.
Perfect promotion
To stand the greatest chance of success for
your charity event, don’t just stick posters
up in store and hope for the best; speak to
your customers about the charity initiative
and engage them with the idea. Chances
are, they’ll tell their friends and before you
know it, you’ll be inundated with suppor t.
It’s also well wor th informing local press so
either put together a simple press release
outlining where, when, who, what and why,
then email to the news desk, or put in a
polite telephone call to see whether it
might be of interest. If the story appears in
the local paper, you’ll get a greater turnout
– all of whom are potential customers. And
once the event has taken place, don’t forget
to follow up by announcing how much you
76 craftfocus
raised, and for who. If you’re lucky, the local
press may even send a photographer down
on the day to get a shot or two of the
event in progress. Good luck!
Top 5 Tips to hosting the
perfect charity event
1. Research your cause. Speak to your
customers to find out which charity or
charity craft initiative they would be happy
to suppor t.
2. Give advance warning. Let customers
know about the event several weeks in
advance. This allows plenty of preparation
time and gives them the oppor tunity to
tell their friends about the initiative.
3. Host an in-store event or workshop
to suppor t the cause, rather than asking
customers to craft for the charity at home.
This creates greater community spirit.
4. Take contact details for all par ticipants
and let them know how much was raised
for the chosen charity. If the customer
agrees, their details can be kept on file and
used to promote other charity-related or
in-store craft events.
5. Provide plenty of refreshments to keep
‘the troops’ going at in-store events – hot
and cold drinks, and a selection of biscuits
should suffice.
Fur ther information
• Visit the website www.docrafts.co.uk to
find out more about the ‘Create a Card for
Cancer Care’ campaign.
• Visit www.innocentdrinks.co.uk/thebigknit
to find out more about The Big Knit
campaign. C
World of Crystal
BY NEVER THE SAME
Swarovski Crystal Components
At out of factory prices
Hot fix and non hot fix loose stones
from SS3 to 48
Beads, Buttons, Sew on Stones, Pendants, Pearl, Banding,
Filigrees, Cupchain, Zips etc
Have your own logo made
Decorate it BLING IS IN!
Phone, iPod, Cameras, Bags or Boots, Wedding Dress, Jeans,
Cards or Curtains
www.diamante.co.uk
email: tilly@diamante.co.uk
Ms U Radcliffe, 13 Winchester Ave,
Aintree, Liverpool L10 3JY
Mobile: 07802 673 010
For your local stockist
Tel: 01768 483 119
P.O Box 82, Penrith,
CA11 8GR
Or sales@
derwentwaterdesigns.
co.uk
A selection of our new designs is shown below, the full range
can be seen at “Stitches” on our Stand A16.
A Brand New Series....Wildlife.
Code WIL2
Deer - Size 26.9 x 34.2cm
Code WIL1
Kingfisher - Size 26.9 x 34.2cm
A new Season in Longstitch. Each design is 16.5cm x 11.5cm
MLS13
Spring Evening
MLS14
Summer Evening
MLS15
Autumn Evening
CON08
Lakeside Farm Size
20cm x 17cm
MLS16
Winter Evening
LSD Daisies Size
9.5cm x 25cm
Another Longstitch
design in this
popular Series
Stop Press! Rose has also designed another 6 greeting cards
OUR AIM
IS TO
MAKE OUR
MARK
BY
HARMANIZING
ANCIENT
TRADITIONS
WITH
MODERN
TECHNIQUES
seeing is believing
Craft watching helped Rob Walker spot a niche in the market for starting up Crafty
Horizons with his wife Jacqui. Here he charts the story so far…
mainly watching Jacqui work, and helping
cut things for her, whilst working first as a
retail manager, then in wholesale, helping
to build the experience I needed to star t
Crafty Horizons.
How and when did the craft business
come about?
My wife Jacqui makes and sells cards at
local craft fairs, and she was star ting to
notice a decline in card sales, as well as
an increase in other people selling cards
– obviously one was caused by the other.
As a solution I suggested that we sell the
materials other people need to make their
cards. I found some suppliers of toppers
and embellishments, and we went back
to the local fairs with our new products
in July 2007. They sold well at first, so we
star ted to sell them on eBay as well. I was
star ting to look for other avenues to sell
our growing range when a new local craft
shop offered us space to sell our products
for a small monthly fee in September 2007.
Things rapidly took off then, and we made
the decision to purely sell on a wholesale
basis, negotiated a sale or return contract
with the craft shop, launched a catalogue
and website, and exhibited at Craft, Hobby
+ Stitch International for the first time in
Februar y 2008.
What are your respective backgrounds
in craft?
Jacqui has been card making for 20 years,
star ting with cross stitch, and trying other
things over the years. She now helps our
four and two-year-old daughters to make
cards. My background has been as a ‘craft
watcher’ for all but the last two years,
78 craftfocus
What vision did you start off with and
how has that changed?
When Crafty Horizons star ted properly I
wanted to be doing everything ourselves,
from telesales to packing and despatch
of goods, and selling a small but constant
range of items. That has changed as I
realised that to be effective we need the
retailers to see our products (they always
look better ‘live’, rather than in a catalogue).
New lines are always welcome so we are
now building a team of agents across the
UK who can visit retailers and show our
products at their best. My vision now is to
have agent coverage for the entire country,
and to expand the range with regular
additions of new products.
What help/advice was available to you
starting out?
My main source of advice was my father,
being a char tered accountant (albeit
retired) he was able to help make the
financial side of star ting a business quite
painless. For the craft and product side, I
relied on Jacqui’s opinion on many products,
as well as watching hours of QVC and Ideal
World on television to see the latest craft
ideas and to pick up trends. I also talked
to a couple of local craft retailers we had
come to know for their advice and opinions.
What are your top tips for anyone
thinking of launching their own wholesale
craft business?
Establish good relationships with
your suppliers/manufacturers, you will
undoubtedly need them at some stage
to help you out of a mess. Also do your
research to make sure people want your
products before taking them to market –
there is no point having a fantastic website
or catalogue with goods that nobody wants
to order.
How do you source your products?
We star ted using the internet, following
up items that seemed interesting either
by contacting the manufacturer direct, or
by engaging a sourcing agent (we still use
this approach for some Chinese products
as my command of the Chinese language
is limited to ordering takeaway). More
recently manufacturers have been coming
to us to show us their goods, allowing us to
see a wider range of items than we would
normally find by looking ourselves.
What do you look for in a new product?
With new products we ask ourselves
several questions, like “would crafters use
it?”, “is the price right?”, “has anybody else
got it?” and “can we guarantee supply?”.
But being really honest we are looking for
things that catch our eye and get us excited
as well as hopefully fulfilling all of our
other criteria.
Since starting the business do you still find
new products to excite you?
Oh yes – I get a tremendous buzz from
finding or designing a new product,
arranging manufacture, then adding it to our
range and website, and the feeling when we
take the first orders for something new is
absolutely amazing.
Last year was your first year at Craft,
Hobby + Stitch International - what were
your impressions and what did you learn?
My first impression was that it was freezing
– the hall doors were wide open on the
set up day, and the temperature was
positively arctic. After that things got much
better (and warmer), and I was pleasantly
surprised by how friendly and helpful the
other exhibitors were. It was quite scar y
being our first time, as well as being exciting
crafty horizons
with the chance to push our fledgling
business forward. I walked round to look at
other stands, and picked up several ideas,
as well as chatting to other exhibitors – I
felt it was very impor tant to make new
contacts in the industr y.
Are you approaching it differently this
year and what new craft lines will you
be unveiling?
We are having a bigger stand this year, and
running three workshops called Butterfly
Bonanza, focusing on the butterflies in
our range. We will also be unveiling new
products in our Acrylic Gem range, and
offering a sneak preview of our new range
due out in the spring, which we are very
excited about. We will also be offering our
customers coffee on the stand, an idea I
picked up last year from Safuri, a very nice
German company I talked to.
Tell us about your workshops - are these
a useful selling tool at trade shows?
This will be our first big demonstration,
so whilst being apprehensive I am really
looking forward to it. We plan to show
some different ways to use our products,
then give people the chance to try for
themselves with a range of our products,
and leave with some samples, as well as
letting them get to see the new spring
range close up. I feel that demonstrations
are very useful, as we value the chance to
show our products to a wider audience,
and the chance to meet new customers. It
also helps for retailers to have the chance
to play with products, as they cannot
always afford to use their own stock to
experiment with back in their shops.
A number of leading trade shows have
been experiencing falling footfalls, do you
feel events like this are still relevant to
the market?
I feel that trade shows are not only
relevant, but very impor tant to the market.
The very nature of craft products means
that retailers really benefit from seeing
and handling new products as opposed to
looking at catalogue or website pictures.
Shows also offer an unbeatable oppor tunity
to network with fellow retailers as well as
suppliers. It is a good way of finding new
suppliers, as well as getting ideas for new
ranges. For the exhibitors the show is an
essential par t of the annual marketing
plan, providing exposure in trade magazine
adver ts, with pre show special editions, and
post show follow ups.
What’s your take on the current state of
the market?
Despite the ‘economic downturn’ I am
convinced that the craft market is better
placed than other sectors to survive,
as many of the items we market are
low priced items. Many people will be
continuing with their craft as an inexpensive
alternative to other pastimes, offering craft
retailers the oppor tunity to keep sales
reasonably steady rather than losing trade.
Any tips for weathering the storm?
Focusing on the ‘must have’ craft essentials
rather than the ‘would like’ luxuries will help
a great deal, as well as offering outstanding
service – don’t try to sell your customer
the latest die cutting machine if they only
want some glue! Also be prepared for the
customer who just wants to chat – they
might buy next time they drop in, so treat
them as nicely as the person who is buying.
All customers are valuable at the moment,
even those who don’t spend as they will
hopefully talk to their friends about what
a nice friendly store you have, which
might just give you the edge over the local
superstore with craft stock on their shelves.
Another way to help is to run workshops
– people will come along for the social side
as much as to learn new skills, and whilst
the ‘feel good’ factor is in play they are
much more likely to buy.
What are your plans for the future?
During 2009 we hope to recruit more
sales agents to cover the whole countr y.
Then when somebody rings up to ask to
see a sample, we will be in a position to
ask a sales agent to call in person, giving us
a much higher chance of taking an order.
We also intend to launch new products at
the NEC this February, as well as a new
product range during the spring. We have
just star ted working with Direct Craft
Supplies, an online wholesaler connecting
several companies like us in order to
maximise all our chances with retailers
looking to place smaller orders – combining
the orders helps us all with carriage and
with securing the smaller sales. We are also
looking to work closely with one of our
suppliers to manufacture some of our own
designs to provide a unique offering to our
customers. C
Further information
For more details visit the website
www.craftyhorizons.co.uk
craftfocus 79
mother's day
mum's the word
Coppernob Card Craft
Web: www.coppernobcardcraft.co.uk
Choose from a wardrobe-full of inspirational paperfolding
designs for Mother’s Day projects. Coppernob’s Fancy That!
Couture Collection comprises12 sets of paperfolding patterns
for dresses, skir ts, trousers, tops, hats, bags and shoes to mix
and match. It’s a high quality book that is full of ideas and takes
iris-folding to another level. Since the success of the British
Invention, award winning M&F Scoreboard, Coppernob Card
Craft continues to specialise in producing a range of tools,
templates, ideas CDs and booklets for creative crafters wanting
to keep crafting skills alive.
Make the most of this special
occasion by stocking some of the
prettiest craft designs about…
Taking place this year on Sunday 22 nd March, Mother’s Day is a key
crafting occasion for children of all ages. We take a look at some of
the newest craft lines to hit the market…
Mouseloft
Web: www.mouseloft.co.uk
Mouseloft specialises in cute counted cross stitch kits at pocket
money prices. The latest kits are just perfect for Mother’s Day
crafting, with key designs featuring bunches of flowers. Priced at
just £2.29 rrp, each kit contains a mounting card and envelope,
and would make a great impulse buy. Place by the till to maximise
special occasion sales!
Design Objectives
Web: www.docrafts.co.uk
Design Objectives has a number of crafting ranges that are just
perfect for creating Mother’s Day cards and mementos. The
Scrumptious Papermania paper pack, for example, contains 10
pretty designs in shades of pink and ivory, which can be used in
all manner of craft projects. For younger children, the Forever
Friends relations pack contains the signature bear motifs that
could be used to make hear t-warming cards for female relatives.
craftfocus 81
mum's the word
Katy Sue Designs
Web: www.flower-soft.com
Just in time for Mother’s Day, the Flower Soft® design team has
released Glass Vases and Mixed Vases as the latest addition to the
Card Topper range. Like the hugely popular Pots and Urns from the
same range, an enormous amount of time and effor t has gone into
producing a product that looks realistic, is easily transformed into 3D
and yet is made of bendable card.
Crafter’s Companion
Web: www.crafterscompanion.co.uk
The original Cute Companions range of stamp plates, designed by
stamping exper t Jayne Nestorenko, are perfect for Mother’s Day
cards. The versatility of the stamps means that customers can enjoy
making a wide variety of cards and crafting creations, simply and
with ease.
The Stitching Shed
Coats Crafts
Web: www.coats.com
Fresh from Margaret Sherry, is ‘Stitch in time’, which shows three happy
little mice embroidering a picture. When complete, it would make the
perfect gift for Mother’s Day. Other quirky designs in the Margaret Sherry
range include a ‘little bundle bir th sampler’, ‘nine cats’ and two characters
from Margaret’s Acorn Hollow illustrations, rabbit and squirrel.
82 craftfocus
Web: www.thestitchingshed.co.uk
The Stitching Shed supplies cross stitch and
needlepoint kits for all occasions. The ‘Mum’ design is
perfect for Mother’s Day, and comes with ever ything
required to make the pretty cushion. Priced at
£13.50rrp, the 6” x 6” (15cm x 15cm) colour printed
canvas also comes with needle, pre-sor ted threads,
buttons, pre-cut felt, black and white char ted design,
and full making up instructions.
Kits for knitted, crocheted, felted bags, scarves and much more...
Please contact me if you would like to stock Woolly One-offs
products or if you would like to have your own exclusive
designs for your customers
email: av@woollyone-offs.co.uk
www.woollyone-offs.co.uk
beating the
credit crunch
Q&A
In these difficult economic times, we all need to try new ideas to achieve our targets. Today
we tackle a couple of questions on finding new customers and getting more sales, without
spending a lot of money.
Loud-n-Clear.com Ltd have been making
websites for over a decade, specialising
in e-commerce sites for craft businesses.
They created the Internet Craft Fair at
www.craft-fair.co.uk to help UK-based
crafters. Beth Scott from Loud-n-Clear.com
answers your retail queries.
Branching out
I want to find new customers by adding new sales outlets. Do you
have any suggestions?
There are two obvious sales channels you could consider, and both of
them could be done in addition to your own e-commerce website.
Firstly, you can sell both finished items and materials on eBay, either
listing them as conventional auctions, BINs (Buy It Now – a fixed price
listing) or by opening an eBay shop. There are hints and tips to both
maximise sales and minimise costs, so it is worth spending a bit of time
reading eBay’s help systems (they do handy selling guides and also host
useful forums) and other dedicated internet sites. Start with the website
www.ebay.co.uk/help/sell.
Secondly, you could dip your toe into the Amazon marketplace – it’s
easy to think of Amazon as merely somewhere to buy books and CDs
but they also provide a marketplace for myriad traders to sell a huge
range of products. Their fees tend to be slightly higher than eBay’s but
the way it works make receiving payments and, if necessary, processing
refunds simple and smooth. Again, they provide comprehensive trading
guides and useful forums. Start with www.amazon.co.uk/gp/help/
customer/display.html?nodeId=3149141.
Q
A
Q
A
buttons. You could also offer a free gift or free delivery for sales over
a certain level, to encourage people to add something more to their
order. Alternatively you can tempt people to come back for further
purchases by using regular competitions, newsletters and discount
vouchers or codes.
With discount codes there is also the opportunity for some viral
marketing if you can encourage customers to pass them on to friends
or, even better, post them on internet discussion forums or discount
websites. If you are selling to a market that has dedicated online
communities, such as mailing lists or forums, then it may be worth
offering specific discount codes to these groups.
Looking at the ways your competitors or other businesses in a similar
market sector attempt to increase their sales can give new ideas and is
always an interesting investment of your time. C
Spend, spend, spend
How can I encourage customers to buy more?
This is a tricky question – it’s easy to just think “drop the prices” but
there are other approaches you should consider first.
These could include cross-selling (“customers that bought this have
also bought…” or “and you may want the following matching items”),
upselling (putting links to the more expensive items you sell or to
options and accessories), wishlists and “recommend this to a friend”
84 craftfocus
Further information
We welcome readers’ questions for future issues. Please visit our
informative web page at www.loud-n-clear.com to find out more
about the numerous services available.
Ebony & Ivory
...now in perfect harmony at Fold-A-Box
Introducing 2 new colours to the Fold-A-Box range now available
from stock! Our standard size now includes black and ivory by
popular demand. As with all boxes from Fold-A-Box they are of
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could be more harmonious!
www.foldabox.co.uk - 01582 499660
Box House, 26 Gardenia Avenue, Luton, Bedfordshire LU2 3NS
ICHF
Stand J01
Wh
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On ale
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For the best India beads delivered within 2 days look at:
www.eurindiabeads.com
for all other beads and findings look at:
www.4crea.com
tel: +32 475 - 695865
info at: eurindiabeads@hotmail.com
smac
it's show time
Taking place in Paris this March, SMAC 2009 promises
craft retailers a unique buying experience. Read on to
find out more…
In Brief
Show: SMAC 2009
Organiser: Grand Palais Communication
SARL
Date: 15 th-17th March 2009
Location: Paris-Nord Villepinte
Exhibitors: 272 in 2008
Attendance: 12,897 in 2008
Email: contact@smacparis.fr
Web: www.smacparis.com
As many retailers are recognising, now is
not a time to be taking a back seat with
regards to building their businesses. To
succeed in these difficult economic times,
it is more impor tant than ever that craft
stores are well stocked with the latest
products to keep the customers coming
back for more. While Craft, Hobby +
Stitch, taking place shor tly at the NEC in
Birmingham, may satisfy many retailers’
needs, it’s well wor th taking a trip to SMAC
in Paris this March to discover many more
unique crafting lines. Indeed, every year
suppliers and distributors flock to the fair
to ensure they can successfully meet the
expectations of their demanding market.
Independent retailers, multiples, wholesalers
and purchasing groups all take advantage
of being the first to get a glimpse of brand
new products.
Exceeding expectations
For several years now, SMAC has been
the biggest speciality trade fair in Europe,
thanks to the 400 brands and suppliers that
attend. Fur thermore, all the new consumer
trends will be represented alongside each
other in order to help retailers make their
buying decisions. For example, at the 2009
event there will be products that meet
the demand for sustainable development,
as well as products relating to personal
expression and customisation. In addition,
up-to-the-minute interior decorating
products have an extremely impor tant
place in the market, as do other sectors of
the market currently seeing strong sales,
such as scrapbooking. At the same time
there is a noticeable return to the classics,
for example, in products for children’s
crafting, while the trend for all things
‘vintage’ is still going strong.
Show sectors
As soon as retailers enter the 2009 fair,
they will be led down the New Products
Avenue, which is the perfect place to star t
stocking up on fresh, innovative crafting
Sectors covered by
SMAC 2009
Stationery/Writing
Cards
Fine Ar ts
Handicrafts and Decorative Ar ts
Needlecrafts
Framing/Pictures
craftfocus 87
it's show time
lines. Buyers may also be surprised to
learn that SMAC is a hugely international
event, with exhibitors and buyers visiting
the show from all over the world. “SMAC’s
development on the international stage
meets a demand from trade professionals
themselves,” says Dominique Stouls,
President of the SMAC Committee. “As for
exhibitors, the international range increased
again: its surface area took up more than a
third of the hall. With visitors representing
47 countries in 2007, and 51 countries
in 2008, SMAC has built up a network of
contacts around the world to enhance its
88 craftfocus
range and satisfy its par ticipants. Our show
has consequently increased its performance
and added to its appeal.”
There has been much interest in this
year’s show; indeed, visitor pre-registrations
have risen by 11% for new buyers and by a
significant 20% for those who have visited
the show before.
The venue
Offering eight adjustable, multi-purpose
halls of 7,100 to 48,000 sq.m in size, Paris
Nord Villepinte hosts numerous events
each year, including the Bouygues Bâtiment
Ile-de-France conference, the Congrès
AXA [AXA convention], the Maison &
Objet home style exhibition, SIAL [the
international food industry exhibition]
and Japan Expo. Boasting 90,000 sq.m of
outdoor space, the centre is just a shor t
distance from Roissy Charles de Gaulle
International airpor t and the Le Bourget
TGV station. C
Further information
To find out more about the show, or to
pre-register, simply visit the website at
www.smacparis.com
express your dreams
Four new trend themes
for the year ahead were
presented at Christmasworld
2009, the international
Frankfurt fair for festive
decoration and interior design.
Take a look at what the
experts are predicting…
Christmasworld 2009 lifted the lid on four
key trend themes for this year’s stylish parties,
festive occasions and celebrations.
Express Your Dreams, the Christmasworld
trend book has been developed by the bora.
herke stilbüro design team in collaboration
with show organisers Messe Frankfurt.
Bringing together all the latest colours,
shapes and materials for festive occasions, the
themes were presented live at Christmasworld,
which took place from 30th January to 3rd
February 2009.
“The influence of fashion, interior design and
art is becoming increasingly apparent in the
decorating sector too and one can’t imagine a
decorating sector without it. We have distilled
the key themes, each of which corresponds
to a different ambience, from these influences.
They all combine modernity with a playful
slant,” explains designer Claudia Herke from
bora.herke.
The four trend themes are: Airy, Sweet,
Comfort and Obsession.
Airy
Airy is a style, which conveys modern ease.
Everything looks fragile, delicate, sensuous,
transparent and yet contemporary. The colour
boundaries are created by chalky pastels
ranging from cream to pink and pale grey,
all combined with lots of white. Transparent,
90 craftfocus
Airy
christmasworld
shows - christmasworld
Sweet
translucent materials are as light as the colours.
They include facetted crystal glass, motherof-pearl, chiffon, silk and glazed porcelain. The
delicate theme is expressed in fine, linear
drawings, blossoms, reliefs, embossing and
engraving, as well as light and dark shadow
effects. The festive decorations, which reflect
this style, are both romantic and modern.
Sweet
Sweet is a sensuous, feminine theme featuring
strong, kitschy colours. The milky palette
extends from sand, aqua and turquoise to
violet, lime and slate grey. Flowers and blossom
sponsor decorations, surfaces and prints.
Materials include plastic, varnish and porcelain,
tulle and satin ribbons. The manner in which
the festive occasion is celebrated is as carefree
as the style – with spontaneity, intensity and
countless accessories.
aesthetics and trusted comfort.
Obsession
Obesession reflects a longing for something
special. The colours express both feminine
elegance and exclusivity. Quartz pink and
mauve lighten up mahogany, aubergine, violet
and gold. Decorative motifs, ornaments and
forms from the animal world define the design.
Exclusive materials underline the luxury of the
style. They include lead crystal, precious and
paste stones, marble, wood, silk and satin.
The Express Your Dreams trend book for
Christmasworld is available from Messe
Frankfurt. To find out more visit
www.christmasworld.messefrankfurt.com. C
Comfort
Obsession
Comfort
Comfort plays around with contrasts. Here
contemporary is combined with traditional
elements. Natural stone, in a variety of nuances,
meets metallic surfaces like chrome and
aluminium. Mirror and glass are used together
with sheepskin, bark and cord. Designs include
Norwegian patterns and geometric motifs and
stripes as well as stone and wood grains. They
include muted colours like slate grey, graphite
and caramel combined with brick red. This
style represents both a desire for functional
craftfocus 91
If you’ve enjoyed reading Craft Focus
magazine, why not log onto our website at
www.craftfocus.com? Containing up-to-theminute news, events and special offers, the
site is updated regularly with information to
help you advance your business.
Special Features
• Featured Articles
Read our regularly updated spotlighted
features whenever you wish, covering
e-commerce, visual merchandising, trade
show previews and much, much more.
• Back Issues Archive
If you're looking for information on a
particular subject regarding your business,
take a look at our back issues archive. All
magazines will be sent out free of charge to
qualified registered readers.
• Media Pack
Download our comprehensive on-line media
pack for a features list, advertising rates and
specifications.
Find a Supplier
The latest feature on www.craftfocus.com,
the supplier directory, allows you to contact
advertisers in the magazine for more
information about their products or services.
Simple to use and available world-wide 24
hours a day, the supplier directory is a reader
reply service for the 21st century.
If you would like to find out more, log onto
www.craftfocus.com
92 craftfocus
Craft, Hobby + Stitch
Stand G32
Retail software from Cybertill improves performance, proÞts and customer loyalty.
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Our point-of-sale systems are extremely easy to learn and use
With our service, thereÕs no headache or cost of managing staff and systems
You can drive your shop, online store, and mail order operations all from a single tool,in real time, using
the same stock data
We can help you design and build your web site or provide links to your existing site
YouÕll always know whatÕs happening in your business, at the touch of a button, from anywhere and
in real time
Great customer relationship management tools will help you build loyalty and increase sales
Imagine speciÞc prices and promotions for all your different customer types
With Cybertill, high performance comes at an affordable price.
Time to treat yourself to a new till system?
Many retailers in the art, craft and toy sectors, ranging from
specialist one-store independents to larger chains, and from
online shops to multi-channel operations, now rely on a Cybertill
system to power their business.
We understand your needs and the challenges that you face, and
we can help you to make money and build loyalty from your
retail operation.
To learn more, please contact the Cybertill sales team on
0800 030 4432 or at info@cybertill.co.uk
next issue
next issue…
Handy Hardwear
Top tools for every craft discipline
Craft Kits
We spotlight
the best on
the market
Cross Stitch
Your essential guide
In-Store Success
How to hold a winning
craft event
Plus
Card Making
This buoyant sector shows no sign
of slowing
• Expert Advice
• Industry News
• Latest Products
Issue 12
April/May 2009
Available from: 27th March 2009
Ad deadline:
13th March 2009
craftfocus 95
subscribe to craft focus
Fill in the form below to receive a regular copy of Craft Focus magazine
Craft Focus magazine, the leading trade
title for the craft industry, is available free
of charge to qualified registered readers.
Published six times a year, Craft Focus
contains news on industry trends, new
products and all craft trade events.
Simply fill in the form below and post to
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96 craftfocus
No
Now there are two perfect reasons for keeping it simple,
Timeless elegance and Classic beauty
Introduce a little flair to your scrapbooking and
paper craft stock, without the stress.
It’s as simple as choosing the right
ingredients! Delish Designs UK knows that the
most delicious flavours develop from having
the right ingredients, and we think the Bistro
and Peppercorn collections for 2009 are no
exception.
Featuring at the Winter CHA, Bistro makes
a re-launch to the American and European
marketplace, due to its huge success in the
UK and Australia. Delish Designs UK is so
confident that it will continue to sell well
here, that we have re-stocked our shelves and
have some fantastic starter packs available for
retailers ready to ship now.
When you’re looking for a little indulgence,
look no further than our latest must have
ingredients from our Peppercorn and
Peppercorn Petite Collections, just launched
at Winter CHA. A delicate selection of new
products, that will add a simplicity to the art of
creating.
The collection features the smallest sampling
of striking double dipped patterned papers,
to include four double-dipped flocked,
embossed and varnished papers with cool
embellishments and organza ribbons to match.
The range also includes menu cards, a project
sheet, die-cut labels, rub-ons and fabric brads.
Just add colourful spring accents for a really
fresh look!
For your FREE Petite Peppercorn Kit,
simply email us with your trade details, and
we will be delighted to post this little pack of
gorgeousness straight to you. Send to
sales@delishdesigns.co.uk.
Why not look to indulge your customers to
a co-branded scrapbooking event in-store by
commissioning the Delish Designs UK Team
to run workshops, day retreats and classes on
your behalf.
Simply call
us for more
information. C
For more details, and to view our collections,
visit our website www.delishdesigns.co.uk,
or call us on +44 (0)1903 774 225.
craftfocus 97
delish designs uk
advertising feature
stock and share
Maggie Yeaman
is the joint
founder of
Homespun
Ideas, with
Dawn McHugh
and Linda
Preece.
The internet is an extremely powerful tool
in contemporary business practice and for
Maggie Yeaman, Dawn McHugh and Linda
Preece it was also the start of a beautiful and
productive friendship.
The three women met through an on-line
discussion forum and discovered a mutual love
of craft with a particular emphasis on the social
side of crafting. After many project ideas were
shared the women began to talk about plans
for products in a range of crafts, especially
templates, and in the summer of 2008 it was
decided that Maggie, Dawn and Linda would
form a company and be collectively known as
Homespun Ideas. In the short time that has
passed since the creation of the business, the
98 craftfocus
Homespun Ideas was set up by three friends with a simple
desire to bring back the community feel of crafting.
We speak to founder Maggie Yeaman about the company’s
products and plans for the future...
team has already had products manufactured
and introduced to the marketplace, using their
experience and insight to design templates by
the crafter, for the crafter.
The company's Inside-Out Card Templates
make pretty pop-out inserts for cards with full
instructions to aid the crafter and four sets
available in the current range. The inspiration
behind the templates was a desire to provide
the consumer with an efficient, re-usable
product that was cost effective and gave great
value for money, a shrewd business decision
that has the problems faced by the modern
crafter at heart. Founder Maggie Yeaman
explains: “We suspected long ago that the
economy would take a downturn, so Dawn
decided that a different approach to card
making was needed. The templates can be
used by both experienced and novice crafters
alike, which offers a broad scope for creating
different cards. We also knew that there was
very little out there to create a pop-out card
like our templates, so we felt that there was
a gap we could fill.” In addition to helping the
consumer the trio decided to support home
grown business by manufacturing all of their
products in the UK. “In the current climate we
feel that everyone should support each other
by pulling together, and we are also more than
happy with our manufacturers standards,”
asserts Maggie.
This conscientious approach has been
applied to the very foundations of Homespun
Ideas and is an important feature of the
company’s website, which has been set up to
be an interactive platform that encourages
crafters to come up with their own project
and product ideas. This is apparent in the
fact that items from other designers appear
alongside the company’s own products, and
the efforts that Maggie, Dawn and Linda have
gone to display their philosophy of what
crafting should be, as Maggie explains: “We
want to take crafting back to its basics where
ideas are created from very little and shared
with many. In days gone by women would
gather around the table and craft together
passing on information and ideas. The only
difference between those women and us
is that we interact now through modern
technology. We are also very aware that many
people craft alone and we want to build a
community where skills can be passed down
through the generations.”
With such emphasis on the traditional ideals
of crafting, the company’s future plans are to
maintain its philosophy whilst growing the
business through methods such as attending
Craft, Hobby + Stitch International in February,
where they will exhibit in the BrightSparks
Pavilion. “We have other designs in the pipeline
for the Inside Out Templates and we want to
get lots more products onto our website. In
short we want to share ideas, information, and
time with like minded people,” says Maggie. C
Further information
To find out more visit the website
www.homespunideas.co.uk