Craft Focus - Feb/Mar (Issue 65)

back in Birmingham WHAT NOT TO MISS… Regular visitors to CHSI Stitches will spot some exciting new developments. Expect an all-new seminar experience in the Presentation Theatre, new exhibitors as well as the key brands and a revamped catwalk show. Here’s a run-down of the things you won’t want to miss at this year’s show. 1. Over 200 exhibitors – Discover the must-have products, place orders for the year ahead and make connections with the top industry brands 2. The Presentation Theatre – The all- new seminar programme will have five key themes: The Craft Report; The Retail Environment; Creative Influencers; Digital Marketing; Great Customer Experience 3. The Learning Zone – The perfect place to learn new techniques to share with your customers 4. The New Product Catwalk – Latest trends for the season brought to life 5. The Next Big Thing – The place to find new start-ups and innovative designers 6. The Stitching Forum – The place to go for stitching products, advice and demos Exhibitor listings, workshop bookings and more information can be found at the website chsi.co.uk NEW INDUSTRY RESEARCH TO BE UNVEILED One of the big draws this year will the unveiling of The Craft Report, a major new piece of industry research, the results of which will be revealed in the show’s all-new Presentation Theatre. The impressive line- up of speakers, including some of the UK’s top magazine editors, and will have visitors snapping up seats in the theatre across the three days of the show. CATWALK CREATIONS A vibrant performance on the New Product Catwalk will take place on each day of the show, bringing to life products and creations from Vlieseline, Rico Designs, Gutermann, Lion Brand, Madeira and McCall Pattern Company. It’s the perfect place to sit back and discover the latest trends for the coming seasons. Creative Projects Manager for ICHF, Jane Bolsover, has curated this year’s catwalk and is looking forward to showcasing its new look. “The new enclosed catwalk with full stage lighting will bring to life the latest seasons trends in a whole new way. We’re looking forward to seeing some really exciting designs, innovative techniques and striking styles, which really show off the creative potential of the products,” she says. THE ALL-NEW PRESENTATION THEATRE The show’s theme, Creating the Future, reflects the insights on offer from the brand experts and high-profile figures involved. Editors of some of the UK’s top lifestyle magazines join this year’s line up of speakers: • Suzanne Imre, editor-in-chief of Livingetc • Maeri Howard, founder and creative director at The Make and Do Studio • Warren Knight, entrepreneur, social media and digital marketing strategist • Deborah Barker, editor-in-chief of Homes & Gardens • Charlotte Moore, editor-in-chief of InStyle UK and digital content director of Time Inc. UK’s excellent fashion and beauty portfolio • Rhoda Parry, editor-in-chief of Country Homes & Interiors All seminars will take place in the Presentation Theatre. No booking is required, but it’s advisable to arrive early to get a seat. Full timings can be found at chsi.co.uk 44 craftfocus