Craft Focus - Feb/Mar (Issue 65)

craft focus 91 Weighed down Hantex will be distributing a range of pattern weights from this February. These handy little tools are essential for dressmakers, allowing pattern pieces to be held in place without pins. The best designs are flat and unobtrusive, enabling the user to move their hands over the pattern without touching the weight. The new collection is quirky and fun, and each set comes in a stylish tin. Hantex, hantex.co.uk Fashion forward OTTOBRE design has just released its kids spring issue. The magazine includes unisex patterns for babies and toddlers as well as on-trend designs for teens. Coupled with stunning organic fabrics and a colourful layout, the publication is certain to be a hit with stitchers. Last year, OTTOBER added a new family issue to its portfolio, with 10 up-to-date menswear designs. Its Woman magazine is also published twice a year, which means beautiful Scandinavian patterns are available for the whole family. The new issue can be viewed online. Contact OTTOBRE if you’re interested in becoming a design retailer. OTTOBRE, ottobredesign.com Fresh colours In late 2017, DMC added 35 on-trend colours to its flagship range of six-stranded embroidery cotton, bringing the total collection to 500 eye-catching shades. The new lines were the first for 20 years, and were introduced to reflect both changing tastes and customer demand. New shades include greys, neutrals and browns inspired by industrial architecture and rich reds and purples representing sumptuous textures and baroque sophistication. Other fresh additions include sunny yellows, invigorating greens and earthy tones that reflect the current trend for wellness, peace and quiet. The designs pictured here are by Sew & Saunders and Jo Butcher. The company sells 800,000 skeins globally every day. DMC, dmc.com