Paperworld Middle East exhibitors reveal key shifts shaping industry
Sustainability, pressure on prices and supply, and a growing crossover between...
Craft Focus magazine is a bi-monthly trade publication for the craft industry, distributed to Art & Craft shops, Toy shops, Model shops, Haberdashers and Needlecraft retailers.
Each issue contains detailed information on upcoming trade shows and reviews many new and innovative products, enabling retailers to make informed and profitable buying decisions for their business. Find out more about the magazine here.
Subscribe now and we shall tell you the moment a new issue of Craft Focus magazine is out! You will also receive our free monthly newsletter too.
Paperworld Middle East exhibitors reveal key shifts shaping industry
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As we move into the summer season, this issue is packed with the latest products, trends and industry highlights to help you make the most of the months ahead.
A key focus, is celebrating excellence across the sector, with coverage of this year’s GOTY winners — recognising the products and brands making a real impact at retail. We also round up the winners of the London Stationery Awards, showcasing the innovation, design and creativity continuing to drive the stationery category forward.
With back-to-school preparations underway, we take a look at the latest stationery products set to attract customers ahead of the new term. From stylish desk accessories to practical essentials, this feature highlights opportunities across a consistently strong retail category.
Seasonal trends continue to inspire the craft market and fruity-themed crafting takes centre stage. Our “When Life Gives You Lemons” feature explores the products bringing a fresh burst of colour to summer collections. Value also remains an important consideration for both retailers and consumers, which is why we spotlight a selection of craft products and projects retailing at under £15, proving creativity and affordability can go hand in hand. Alongside this, our children’s craft feature looks at products designed to keep younger makers engaged during the holiday season, an area that continues to perform strongly for many stores. We also dedicate a section to buttons and ribbons — classic craft essentials that remain a staple for every household.
Whether you’re crafting at the kitchen table, in the garden sunshine or on the go this summer, we hope these pages inspire you to try something new, revisit an old favourite and, above all, enjoy the pleasure of making.
Happy crafting!
Rachel Westall, Editor
PS. If you have any news you would like to submit to this site or Craft Focus magazine, please email editor@craftfocus.com
Rachel x
School is officially back in session for the kids and with stationery restocking and school uniforms prepped, Maped Helix are uncovering all the favourites every parent will remember from their own childhood. Starting with the classic Oxford Maths Set tins, filled with all the instruments you could need. For many, it is a source of real nostalgia: opening that distinctive tin at the start of term, and carrying it from lesson to lesson. Known and recognised in classrooms around the world, the set has become a back-to-school essential across generations.
Visit: OXFORD COMPLETE SCHOOL STATIONERY SET – Maped Helix UK
If you like this, check out more inspirational ideas.
Lavish splendour or cosy comfort? Back in February, Christmasworld in Frankfurt offered an exclusive preview of the upcoming festive season. Every year, the leading international trade fair for festive and seasonal decorations brings together leading manufacturers and brands from around the world to showcase the latest products and trends for every celebration throughout the year. One thing is clear for 2026: this Christmas is set to be opulent, emotional and delightfully animal-inspired.
Dr Susanne Lux, horticultural expert at Pelargonium for Europe UK, offers beautiful try-at-home craft ideas using fresh flowers. Homemade gifts are always extra meaningful as they demonstrate the time and effort someone has invested in creating a personalised gift. Geraniums are perfect for incorporating into creative projects. With a few simple steps, these vintage-style flowerpots, decorated with floral motifs and filled with lush, blooming geraniums, are an example of just such a gift. You will need a clean terracotta pot, wrapping paper with floral motifs, scissors, wallpaper paste, a brush, (optional) matt clear varnish for sealing.
