Craft Focus - Aug/Sep (Issue 68)

20 cra ftfocus brand spanking new Deck the halls ExaClair has added a new festive paper maché tree to its seasonal collection. The contemporary product selection also includes reindeer and Christmas trees, and is available in both textured and standard versions. The tree support stands at 39cm tall and is constructed from triangular pieces, giving it a thoroughly modern look. “We know Christmas is an important time for craft enthusiasts, who are looking for new ways to decorate their homes,” says Clement Rouillard, Marketing Manager. “The new products add to a varied and exciting selection of Christmas Décopatch papers and accessories that also include advent calendars, Santas, sleighs, tree decorations and much more.” +44 (0)1553 696 600 exaclairlimited.com Feathered friends These fabulous owls are part of the new VDV bead embroidery range from Solocrafts. The stunning design is printed on soft satin- feel fabric, with pre-sorted Precosia beads that are stitched using a single length of thread. The image is built up one section or row at a time, which means beads are evenly spaced and lay in the same direction. The kit measures 26cm x 36cm, uses 184 grams of beads and retails at £53.99. +44 (0)161 464 7313 solocrafts.com Paper trail We love this stunning new range of recycled papers from Imagine Crafts. Made from recycled cotton and covered with metallic or glitter prints, each design oozes style and charm. It’s sold in A4 sheets. The company also stocks lace, ribbons, bows and string via its new website, ragdollribbons.co.uk +44 (0)1437 807 277 imaginediy.co.uk Fashion focus Hantex has unveiled the latest range of patterns by Allie Olson, including this stylish Corum top and dress. The design features bust and shoulder darts for shaping, and is particularly well-suited to woven fabrics with drape. The sleeve cuffs offer a clean finish, while a curved dolphin hem provides visual interest. +44 (0)1754 820 800 hantex.co.uk Wedding bells Michael’s Bridal Fabrics has added a number of exquisite new lines to its extensive collection. Latest designs include three heavily crystalized back panels featuring varying lengths of crystal loops with a motif on each shoulder. A third has rigid banks and is available in champagne colouring. “There’s a new French edging that has feathers attached in ivory and has already become very popular with customers,” says Michael Bristow from the family business. “Other current features include edgings, motifs and fabrics with trellis and lattice sections. We also have designs featuring all-over trellis patterns that co-ordinate perfectly. There are new embroidery lines with 3D laser-cut panels, some of which are digitally printed, which gives an exclusive effect to every piece of fabric sold.” +44 (0)1322 380 480 michaelsbridalfabrics.co.uk