WWW.CRAFTFOCUS.COM HANDMADE WITH LOVE Creative cardmaking Show NEWS Autumn Fair preview PLUS! Knitting & crochet Stamping & embossing Soft crafts and felting inspiration OH SO SOFT Gilded of Oxford Introducing
3 CONTENTS In this issue... REGULARS 9 Industry news What’s happening within the craft and hobby market 17 Brand spanking new Brand spanking new products 70 Bookstand The latest book releases August/ September 2025 33 48 55 FEATURES 33 Witching hour Halloween makes 43 Loops of love Knitting and crochet 51 Handmade with love Cardmaking ideas 55 It’s beginning to look a lot like.... Christmas crafts for all 62 Make your mark! Stamping and embossing 65 Oh so soft Soft crafts & felting
4 65 BUSINESS 72 Retailer interview Rosie Wragg, Owner of Rosie’s Craft Shop, tells us all about how she runs her e-commerce shop 74 Signed, sealed, delivered Amanda Fergusson, CEO of the Greeting Card Association chats to Craft Focus about the postal service and the work she’s involved with to highlight small businesses reliance on a national, reliable and affordable postal service 76 Sew your style Tammy Johal of Tammy Handmade has turned her passion into a career, gaining a dedicated following of 154K Instagram and becoming an ambassador for Brother. Here’s her tips for sewing your own clothes 78 A wake-up call ACID’s Dids Macdonald and Faith Capstick discuss how to protect giftware creativity from AI 79 A turning point Julie Lilley, Chief Executive of the Federation of Small Businesses, shares more about the launch of the Fair Payment Code, which aims to transform payment practices 33 70 SHOWS 23 Shows, news & events Stay up-to-date with what’s happening in your industry 29 Autumn Fair preview What to expect at The NEC this September FOCUS ON 40 Fab Dab Do Amanda Litster, owner of Fab Dab Do talks to Craft Focus about creating more creative futures for little ones! 48 Gilded of Oxford Samantha Salvatorelli, founder and director of Gilded of Oxford (Formerly: Gilded Words) chats to Craft Focus about bringing quality and craftmanship to your home or office desk 60 Quadrigloo Joyce Kudehinbu, Founder and Director of Quadrigloo chats to Craft Focus about their innovative square shaped glue stick!
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7 EDITOR’S LETTER On the cover Our beautiful cover features pieces from luxury stationery brand, Gilded of Oxford, handcrafted in 100% leather and available in a rich palette of 12 colours. Shown here: the A5 Red Leather Notebook, A6 Exercise Notebook in Pink Calla Lilies, Red Leather Pocket and Triangle Pen Cases, and a six-piece gift set comprising the Hexagon Pen Cup with matching Small and Large Trinket Boxes. Visit: https://gildedofoxford.com Things are hotting up The heatwave has brought much optimism to the UK. As well as Wimbledon, the UEFA Women’s Euros and the chorus of Wonderwall being sung around the UK’s big cities, we’ve had quite an exciting few months! According to the British Retail Consortium, “UK Total retail sales increased by 3.1 percent year on year in June, against a decline of 0.2 percent in June 2024.” Plus, rumours are that the next set of results are set to exceed once again. Fingers crossed. This issue, we have a focus on cardmaking, stamping and embossing – there’s plenty of crafting essentials to keep you stocked up for the rest of the year. Talking of cardmaking, we took time out to chat with Joyce Kudehinbu, founder and director of Quadrigloo and the company’s innovative square-shaped glue stick! I never knew how much I needed one and now I can’t live without it! Genius! As much as I wish it could be warm and sunny all year round, I can’t ignore the glints of sequins and glitter arriving daily in my inbox. And so, we have the first part of our Christmas features - expect chunky knit patterns and festive cross stitch kits galore! Finally, if you’re heading to the NEC this September for Autumn Fair, enjoy! We do have a preview, so take a look to plan your trip accordingly – there’s some great suppliers you won’t want to miss! Happy reading, Louise Prance Editor Rachel DESIGN +44 (0)1376 535 616 artwork@craftfocus.com ACCOUNTS +44 (0)1376 535 616 accounts@craftfocus.com MANAGING DIRECTOR Sarah Ellis +44 (0)1376 535 602 sarah.ellis@craftfocus.com Craft Focus is solely owned, published and designed by Ellis Media and Events Ltd. 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. ISSN 1758-0900 @craftfocus @craftfocusmag @craftfocus Craft Focus is proud to be associated with and supporters of: ADVERTISING Account Manager Tracy Voice +44 (0)1376 538 555 tracy.voice@craftfocus.com EDITORIAL Editor Rachel Westall +44 (0)1376 514 000 editor@craftfocus.com Lavinia Stamps Heritage Crafts
Framing reframed UK Patents: GB2559609B GB2572341B US Patent: US10,588,434 EUIPO Trademark 17868192 ©Differentiate Design Limited Pop-up Frames can be assembled in a few minutes to multiple sizes with just a pair of scissors. They’re also lightweight so can easily be hung and re-hung using the supplied adhesive pad without damaging walls. They’re ideal add-ons for crafters and artists to display their 2D or 3D artworks. Pop-up Frames are flat-packed so significantly reduce the POS and storage space required. The frames and packaging are both made from 100% FSC certified and sustainable materials. All these frame formats made from the Small Pop-up Frame kit (6 sizing options: 15-30cm) Making framing easier and more sustainable
9 INDUSTRY NEWS Industry news Latest news from the craft industry Business Wales support helps North Wales company craft export success Ruthin based craft supplier, Lavinia Stamps, has expanded exports to more than 60 countries and counting, as support from Business Wales generates a 12 percent increase in sales through new exposure to international markets. Established in 1992, the craft supplier is best known for their signature polymer stamps, featuring original artwork from founder Tracy Dutton. Looking to safeguard and expand exports following the UK’s exit from the EU, the team enlisted export experts from Business Wales for strategic guidance to build resilience and better navigate evolving international trade landscapes. Working with Lavinia’s Product Development Manager, Andrew Peers, Business Wales Adviser, Anthony Kirkbride, set about identifying opportunities to strengthen the company’s sales in Europe to mitigate a potential 75 percent drop in sales that threatened a 40 percent loss in revenue. With Business Wales’ expertise, the Lavinia team were able to capitalise on developing export opportunities. This included accessing courses created by Business Wales to offer exporters clarity on new EU requirements. Identifying a route to build on the company’s annual turnover of £2.4 million, primarily built on export of crafting tools and accessories such as inks, stencils, and papers, Business Wales supported successful funding applications. Funding secured through the Welsh Government Trade Team funded Overseas Business Development Visit Programme, which provides support and assistance to companies (SME and large) to attend overseas exhibitions and undertake business development activities in market and boost exports. The funding facilitated by Business Wales provided Lavinia with 50 percent of the costs needed to travel to meet with new customers and suppliers while attending the Creativeworld Trade Fair in Frankfurt. Product Development Manager, Andrew said: “Business Wales’ support has been crucial to creating a strategy to maintain and grow our market in the EU. Without Anthony’s guidance the process would have been very difficult for us to manage as the protocols seemed to change daily. Thanks to the support provided to help us attend the Creativeworld Trade Fair we’ve been able to raise our EU profile and engage new customers, as a direct result of the positive feedback into our wider product line. These new products along with our visibility at the trade show have helped us increase our EU sales by 8 percent and our exports from 40 countries to 60 in the first year.” Andrew hopes to collaborate further with Business Wales to explore expansion into the US market as Lavinia Stamps continues to grow its product portfolio. Business Wales Adviser, Anthony Kirkbride, said: “It’s been amazing to see Lavinia Stamps’ progress after attending Creativeworld. Although well-versed in exports, Andrew was eager to receive guidance on the evolving EU market to inform their business trade strategy. A strategy that has seen them achieve impressive growth, expand their export activities, and increase their product offerings.” Business Wales is funded by Welsh Government. For more information and support to help your business discover opportunities, and to speak to a specialist adviser, contact Business Wales. Visit www.businesswales.gov.wales
10 Knitted Knockers UK celebrates 10 years Knitted Knockers UK, a registered charity in England & Wales which offers bespoke knitted and crocheted knockers to women who have had surgery following a breast cancer diagnosis, proudly announces its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of confidence boosting, sometimes life changing assistance to women in the UK. The charity is committed to providing free of charge, knitted and crocheted breast prostheses for women in the UK who have undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy. Women who have undergone surgery are provided with silicone breast prosthesis by the NHS, which some have found to be uncomfortable, heavy and may rub against the scars left after surgery, causing rashes and pain. Key highlights of the past decade: • Over 40,000 individual knitted knockers made. • Over 100 dedicated and highly skilled volunteer knitters and crocheters. • Supported by King Cole, leading brand of knitting patterns and high quality wool and yarns since 1935. • Attendance at hundreds of events spreading awareness “We’re extremely grateful for the dedicated support of our knitters, volunteers, donors and community partners who have made the past 10 years possible,” said Deb Wright, Charity Chair. “This milestone shows what we can achieve when we work together.” Women can order knockers through the website and they can choose bra size, knitted/crocheted/aqua, colour, nipple or no nipple. The charity also provides display packs of knockers in different sizes, styles and colours, together with information leaflets, posters and business cards for breast cancer clinics, GPs and stores that sell mastectomy bras. Anniversary mementos and support All Knitted Knockers are provided free of charge. The charity relies on donations to help it do that and is solely run by volunteers, who make the knockers, attend events and give talks around the country. In celebration of this 10th anniversary milestone, there are commemorative branded tote bags and keyrings now on sale as well as various hand-made mini knocker keyrings and notecards through the website shop which help raise funds: www.knittedknockersuk.com/shop If you’d like to support the charity by fundraising or spreading the word then register your interest by sending an email or simply make a donation, all information is on the website – www.knittedknockersuk.com ‘The Bouquet in a Book’ Blooms with Double Award Win David and Charles is thrilled to announce that its spring 2025 release, The Bouquet in a Book, (ISBN 9781446314289, £19.99), has been recognised with two accolades at the prestigious Gift of the Year Awards. The innovative papercraft title not only won the Affordable Gift category but was also crowned the overall winner by the panel of expert judges. Congratulations! The Bouquet in a Book is a beautifully designed papercraft kit that enables users to create a lasting floral arrangement, no cutting required. Every element of the bouquet, stems, flowers and foliage is ready to press out from the pages and can be shaped and glued into a stunning display. The finished bouquet makes a perfect year-round gift ideal or simply as an elegant addition to any home. Making the bouquet itself is calming and creative, offering a mindful crafting experience with a rewarding result. The Gift of the Year Awards are the most highly respected industry accolades aimed at celebrating excellence and recognising the best new products and inspiration across the giftware and homeware sectors. They span categories from jewellery and games to sustainable products and stationery. The Affordable Gift category highlights high quality, budget friendly options, making The Bouquet in a Book a standout among strong competition. This award success builds on a strong period of growth for David and Charles, which celebrated the fifth anniversary of its 2019 management buyout last year. With consecutive years of revenue growth, the company has firmly established itself as a global leader in niche and hobby publishing, particularly in practical crafts. Many David and Charles authors are recognised experts in their fields, and the company continues to expand its licensing portfolio with high profile partnerships including The Pokemon Company International, Penguin Ventures, Hasbro and more.
12 New additions to the Creative Solutions website Great News! Creative Solutions has recently updated its website. Keep a look out for an ever expanding range of fabrics. Creative Solutions is a leading distributor of sewing, knitting, crochet and craft products. It was established in 2014 to provide a wide range of dressmaking, craft and home décor fabrics, threads, buttons, ribbons, needles, haberdashery, trimmings, bag making and lots of other crafty products to businesses throughout the UK, Eire and now worldwide. Expect a huge range of products from many well-known brands including Bonfanti buttons, Mettler threads, Prym haberdashery, John James needles and Stafil Textiles and Craft products. CS is a small friendly team offering excellent customer service. Apply online for a trade account today: www.creativesolutionsgb.com Keep up to date on Facebook, via the newsletter or request a visit from one of the agents. For further information, email: gill.creativesolutions@btconnect. com or visit: www.creativeslutionsgb.com WOVEN 2025 wraps up a month of community creativity WOVEN 2025 has come to a close after a month of communitydriven textile events. This year’s festival, which took place throughout June, saw more than 120 events from community organisations, venues, local artists, schools and the textile industry, collaboratively coming together to celebrate the district’s rich textile history and contemporary scene. The creative event was enjoyed by more than 12,000 visitors. From the start, WOVEN 2025 had community at its heart. Over the course of the month, people of all ages participated in hands-on workshops, exhibitions, installations, and creative gatherings. The festival's ever-popular yarn bomb trail returned in full force, with Roberttown Village and Marsden Park festooned in woolly creations and Slaithwaite's streets adorned with colourful mandalas. There were "yarnstallations" in Moldgreen, an enchanted woodland in Flockton and giant flowers in Ravensthorpe, Meltham, Huddersfield's Piazza Centre and the Chestnut Centre in Sheepridge. The festival's programme was packed with opportunities to learn and share skills, from upcycling workshops and natural dyeing sessions to brooch-making and creative mending classes. Stitch Saturday events in Birstall and Batley encouraged families to discover the joys of sewing together. A highlight of WOVEN 2025 was the installation of The Red Dress at Oakwell Hall. This internationally acclaimed collaborative embroidery project, from artist Kirstie MacLeod, features the work of more than 300 embroiderers from 51 countries and drew more than 3,000 visitors from all around the UK. For more information on WOVEN 2025 and ongoing textile projects, visit https://woveninkirklees.co.uk Gemporia Craft welcomes CraftStash Gemporia Craft is excited to announce the purchase of CraftStash, the UK’s trusted online destination for papercraft and creative inspiration, along with several of its popular subbrands. This partnership brings together two communities with a shared love of making, learning, and connecting. By adding CraftStash’s extensive range of exclusive products, tutorials, and engaged customers to its portfolio, Gemporia Craft cements its place as the home of the UK’s most passionate crafting community both on-screen and online. The move also opens exciting new opportunities for innovation, exclusive collaborations, and creative learning for makers of every level. “This partnership is a fantastic match for our values and vision," said Scott Stone, Managing Director of the Gemporia Partnership. "We're delighted to welcome CraftStash customers and brands into the Gemporia Craft family, where they'll find even more inspiration, expert-led content, and a truly inclusive community.” Danny Bowler, Managing Director at Practical Publishing Ltd, shared: “I’m delighted CraftStash will have a new home within Gemporia Craft at HobbyMaker. There couldn't be a better fit in terms of shared values, product range, and commitment to crafters. I look forward to seeing CraftStash flourish as part of this growing creative network.” With the addition of CraftStash, Gemporia Craft's extensive offering now including HobbyMaker, Sewing Street, JewelleryMaker, Visible Image, and Arden Creative Studio - continues to set the standard for accessibility, education, and inspiration in the UK craft market.
Natural Dyes and Handwoven Fabrics for Textile Lovers DekelDyes makes natural dyeing easy with quality materials straight from Mother Earth www.suzannedekel.com since 1877 For stockists contact: Lakeside Needlecraft I lakesideneedlecraft.co.uk Willow Fabrics I www.willowfabrics.com Heritage Crafts I Tel: 01889 575 256 Woolwarehouse I woolwarehouse.co.uk Stitchtastic I www.stitchtastic.com PREMIUM NEEDLEWORK FABRICS 100 % MADE IN GERMANY www.zweigart.de In our new color scheme "Coffee Whisper", coffee meets embroidery and creates the most beautiful duo of everyday life: coffee & cross stitch. Brand new in our collection is the famous Belfast 32 ct. linen fabric with a coffee bean pattern (3609/3239). Explore this lovely theme at www.zweigart.de/embroidery and follow us on Instagram for more inspiration! Coffee Whisper
14 Shaun the Sheep turns 30 & launches nationwide knitting campaign To mark some 30 years of Shaun’s madcap adventures and worldwide entertainment, Aardman has teamed up with British Wool, Campaign for Wool and Craft Forward to unveil a global knitting and crafting initiative with purpose. The campaign - ‘Can Ewe Knit It?’ – is a call out to global fans and knitting enthusiasts to knit or crochet a Shaun inspired blanket square, where a public event by Craft Forward will unite every woolly wonder to create Shaun the Sheep inspired blankets for unhoused people, with wool for the event being 100 percent British Wool, donated by West Yorkshire Spinners. A spokesperson for Aardman said: “Shaun is a global and cultural icon, and to mark his 30th birthday we want to use his fame for good and connect the craft and innovation of our studio to incredible organisations that use craft to uplift communities. To take part, the ask is to knit or crochet a Shaun inspired 20cm x 20cm blanket square either by downloading one of the free pattern designs or create a totally unique project inspired by the worldwide woolly star and send to Craft Forward. The squares will form the heart of a public event where creators will come together at The Mills Fabrica in Kings Cross on 28th October 2025 to make a flock of Shaun-inspired blankets. Each blanket will be given to an unhoused person in London through Craft Forward’s ‘Blankets for London’ project, that brings warmth to some of the most vulnerable in society. Download a square pattern (or make your own) via: https://aard.mn/CanEweKnitIt and then post your 20x20cm square to: Craft Forward, 3 Space International House, 6 Canterbury Crescent, London, SW9 7QD by 30th September 2025. Spring Fair & Theo Paphitis announce 12 new #sbs winners for 2026 initiative Spring Fair is delighted to announce the 12 new winners of its continued partnership with retail entrepreneur Theo Paphitis and his #SBS Small Business Sunday initiative. Each winner will receive a free exhibition stand within the #SBS Village at Spring Fair, taking place on 1st to 4th February 2026 at the NEC Birmingham. Since launching their collaboration in 2018, Spring & Autumn Fair and #SBS have supported more than 70 small businesses by offering them vital exposure to thousands of retail buyers. The 2026 cohort of winners reflects the passion, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit that defines the UK’s small business community. Theo Paphitis, Retail Entrepreneur and small business champion, said: “When #SBS started 15 years ago, I never imagined it would grow into what it is today. Every year, we’ve been able to offer our winners more and more opportunities, and a fantastic example of one of those is the chance to win 12 free stands at Spring Fair - a great opportunity to get your small business noticed and find new paths to growth. The passion, talent, and hard work of our #SBS Small Business Sunday winners never fails to impress me, I’m so looking forward to seeing what our 12 winners this year come up with at Spring Fair 2026!” The 12 inspirational winners include: Pickle - Pickle is a charming, UK-designed clothing brand founded by mum-of-four Claire in 2016, offering stylish garments for babies, kids, and adults. https://pickle.co.uk/ Little Moments Melts - Creating calming moments through scent, Little Moments Melts offers hand-poured wax melts and home fragrances using natural ingredients and thoughtful design. www.littlemomentsmelts.co.uk Floral Lifestyle - Inspired by nature and sustainability, Floral Lifestyle curates eco-conscious gifts and lifestyle products that bring mindfulness into the home. www.florallifestyle.co.uk The Bridgefield Candle Company - Blending luxury and craftsmanship, Bridgefield Candle Co. produces hand-poured candles using vegan-friendly soy wax, with sophisticated fragrances and stylish design. @bridgefieldcandleco GoGiftid (RYG Ltd) - GoGiftid offers a QR code-based gifting experience, allowing users to pre-purchase gifts that recipients can redeem at their convenience. www.gogiftid.com Boom Sauce - This award-winning hot sauce brand is bringing flavour, fire, and personality to kitchens with its handcrafted sauces made from fresh ingredients. www.boomsauce.co.uk The Stable Soap Company - Handcrafting artisanal soaps and skincare products using natural, sustainable ingredients, The Stable Soap Company celebrates wellbeing and the English countryside. www.thestablesoapcompany.com Jo Couch - An illustrator and designer known for her playful, bold artwork, Jo Couch creates vibrant prints, stationery, and homeware full of colour and character. www.jocouch.com Handmade by Tinni - Pioneers in sustainable textile jewellery, Handmade by Tinni transforms bold colours and organic cotton into wearable works of art with a joyful, maximalist twist. www.handmadebytinni.com Marbec Village - Marbec Village create metro-themed products inspired by the dynamic urban landscapes of some of the most icon locations in the UK, each with its own distinct personality and style. Marbec Village on Etsy Lucy Miller - Lucy Miller brings together contemporary design and heartfelt messaging in her range of prints, homeware, and stationery, all made in the UK. www.lucymillershop.co.uk Nantwich Gin - Distilled in Cheshire, Nantwich Gin blends heritage with innovation, crafting premium gins using traditional botanicals. www.nantwichgin.co.uk
15 INDUSTRY NEWS Gemma Sault Joins The GA as MD The Giftware Association is delighted to announce that Gemma Sault will be joining as managing director at the beginning of September. With a strong background in the giftware and retail sectors, Gemma brings a wealth of experience and fresh energy to the Giftware Association as it continues to support and champion the UK’s vibrant home, stationery, craft, jewellery and gift industry. Gemma Says “The GA is the perfect fusion of my passions for business, retail and gift giving. I’m eager to support our members in achieving new heights, making a positive impact to the industry and to play a role in crafting smiles and memories for customers that will last a lifetime.” Gemma’s appointment marks an exciting new chapter for The Giftware Association, and members will have the opportunity to meet her in person at this year’s Autumn Fair, taking place at the NEC Birmingham from 7th to 10th September 2025. The Association will be exhibiting on stand 7F44 – G45 with the Gift of the Year winners showcase as well as our International team on hand to talk about boosting your business abroad. Gemma will be on hand to connect with members, share insights, and discuss how the GA can continue to support their businesses. “We’re thrilled to welcome Gemma to the team,” said Chris Workman, PR & Marketing Manager of The GA. “Her passion for the industry and her collaborative spirit makes her a perfect fit for our community. We encourage all our members to stop by our stand at Autumn Fair to say hello and get to know her.” The Giftware Association invites all members, partners, and industry professionals to visit their stand and celebrate this exciting addition to the team. Historic trade deal with India signed Businesses and workers in the East of England are set to benefit from the UK’s trade deal with India as new analysis shows the landmark agreement will deliver a £190 million boost for the local economy as part of the Plan for Change. Both Prime Ministers met yesterday morning for the signing of the landmark UK-India trade deal as new analysis reveals communities across every region of the UK will benefit from its £4.8 billion increase to UK GDP each year. It comes as a series of investment and export wins have been confirmed by UK and Indian businesses, representing an overall boost of nearly £6 billion and creating more than 2,200 jobs. 983 businesses in the East of England exported goods worth £533 million to India last year, which could grow even more under the trade deal. The region will see significant benefit from the deal with its numerous science and technology hubs, such as those found in Cambridge, benefitting from reduced tariffs on technologies such as medical devices and high-end optical equipment like microscopes. Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said: “The millions brought to the East of England each year from the deal we’ve signed with India will be keenly felt across local communities, whether that’s higher wages for workers, more choice for shoppers, or increased overseas sales for businesses. This government is proving time and again that we can deliver on our mission to grow the economy, put more money in pockets and boost living standards under our Plan for Change.” Workers in the East of England will enjoy an uplift in pay as UK wages grow by £2.2 billion each year and could also see cheaper prices and more choice on clothes, shoes, and food products. The UK already imports £11 billion in goods from India but liberalised tariffs on Indian goods will make it easier and cheaper to buy their best products. For businesses in the East of England this could mean potential savings when importing components and materials used in areas such as advanced manufacturing or luxury and consumer goods. India’s trade weighted average tariff will drop from 15 percent to 3 percent which means companies in the East of England selling medical devices to India will find it easier to sell to the Indian market. It gives the UK an advantage over international competitors in reaching the Indian market, forecast to have over a quarter of a billion high income consumers by 2050. The deal will offer significant opportunities for clean energy experts in the region who will be able to compete directly for contracts from India’s Ministry of New and Renewable Energy for the first time ever. Simon Hansford, Chief Commercial Officer at Civo, a cloud provider founded in Hertfordshire, said: “Significant tariff reductions on our exports will mean our products can be more competitive and accessible in India’s rapidly growing market. Guaranteed access to India’s public procurement market and simplified customs processes could be transformational for many. This deal offers substantial benefits, boosting confidence and creating new avenues for growth in areas that were previously challenging to navigate, making it easier for UK SMEs to trade and thrive internationally.” A Chosen Soul
New craft books from Batsford is distributed by Abrams & Chronicle Books info@abramsandchronicle.co.uk View our latest catalogue: www.batsfordbooks.com/catalogues Calling all architects, product designers and ,model makers... Introducing new Mint Green Craftfoam! Lightweight and strong, Craftfoam is a versatile Extruded Polystyrene (XPS) material, ideal for all your crafting needs. Craftfoam is available in White, Mint Green or Grey with a range of sizes and thicknesses on offer. Craftfoam is available to order online today: www.panelsystems.co.uk/products/modelling-foam For more information and to place an order, call our expert sales staff on 01909 774 914. Alternatively, submit a request for Craftfoam to sales@panelsystems.co.uk.
17 BRAND SPANKING NEW Brand spanking new Check out some new and exciting products in the current market HERITAGE CRAFTS LTD Heritage Crafts has a lovely new design from Mel Rodicq, named Glory (MSGL1907). The design size: 8insq and has an RRP: £36.75. The kits contains: Zweigart fabric, DMC stranded cottons sorted onto numbered cards, a needle, and clear charts and instructions. sales@hcrafts.com www.hcrafts.com EQS UK A new brand for EQS is Fin Fabrics. This range, Callie’s Choice will be released in Q2! The bunny and crocodile prints are perfect for a new nursery or a beautiful patchwork quilt. +44 (0)116 271 0033 https://eqsuk.com VIRIDIAN This beautiful Seeknit Notions Set is a collection of bamboo accessories for versatile knitting projects and would make the perfect gift. Seeknit pursues a sustainable product concept and has created this set of notions based on years of experience. The products can be used in a variety of knitting projects. Plastic free with an eco-friendly and sustainable concept, what more could you ask for. The contents include: • Bamboo Ruler – 15cm • Shirotake Tunisian Double Ended Crochet Hooks - 15cm x 6.00mm and 10cm x 3.50mm (one of each) • Shirotake Grooved Cable Stitch Holders - 11.50cm x 7.00mm • Koshitsu Bamboo Cable Stitch Holders - 10.50cm x 4.0mm and 11.50cm x 5.00mm • Shirotake Bamboo Blunt Needles – 9.00cm (3.5 inch) x 3.50mm and 10.00cm x 4.00mm • Shirotake Mini Bamboo Crochet Hook 7.00cm x 3.00mm • Shirotake Bamboo Marking Pins 6.50cm x 2.40mm x 4 pcs. office@viridianltd.co.uk www.viridianyarn.com
18 LETISTITCH Letistitch is proud to announce the imminent release of some new products. The first category is Diamond Painting kits, under a new brand name DAZZLE DOTS part of Letistitch Group. These are fine and exquisite kits, providing all the necessary materials to finish the Diamond painting. The kit contains high quality colour printed fabric; superior quality diamonds pre-sorted by shade; diamonds craft tray; stylus with soft grip and wax caddy; plus pictorial instructions. Featured here is: LT05 Sleeping Fox - the size of the design is 12in x 12in, with 43 colours. +44 (0)7780 122 430 +44 (0)7469 364 150 letistitch@gmail.com www.letistitch.com BATSFORD In Unfolding Cloth, renowned textile artist and tutor Hannah Lamb frequently uses and is inspired by old fabrics in her work, from age-worn cotton and linen sheets to delicate lace collars, vintage patchwork to snippets of colourful printed silk. In this book she explores many creative ways to incorporate historical textiles into your own work, from first conception and initial research to finished piece. This thoughtful, imaginative book is illustrated with inspirational examples of the author’s own work and that of other leading textile artists, and provides a valuable introduction to working with historical textiles to enhance your own pieces of textile art. In Wild Weave, textile artist Alice Fox encourages an open-minded and playful approach to creating beautiful and innovative woven artworks. Alice promotes the idea of engaging with simple tools and technology, as well as making use of locally sourced and unconventional materials, all of which can produce exciting results. Packed full of introductory information, the book covers everything from the historical background of weaving to how it crosses boundaries between textiles, basketry, art and craft. She includes an introduction to frames, heddles and other simple tools, explaining how you can use the most basic equipment including found, home-made and re-purposed structures. sales@batsfordbooks.com www.batsfordbooks.com EXACLAIR Discover the joy of modelling with the new Darwi Modelling Kit – a comprehensive creative box designed especially for adults, whether you’re just starting out or already a modelling enthusiast. Packed with more than 12 inspiring projects, this all-in-one kit opens the door to a world of creativity. With step-by-step guidance and expert tips included inside, you’ll learn essential techniques to master the art of modelling and bring your ideas to life with confidence. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a new hobby or refine your artistic skills, the Darwi Modelling Kit is the perfect companion for creative exploration. +44 (0)1553 696 600 sales@exaclair.co.uk https://exaclairlimited.com
19 BRAND SPANKING NEW HERBERT PRESS Wool Sculpting Needle Felting for Beginners by Louise Lambert features 10 step-by-step projects, from toadstools and teacups to puffins and mice, learn how to create your very own miniature works of art. Needle felting is a simple, versatile technique for sculpting shapes and figures from wool. With this beautifully illustrated practical guide learn the different wools, materials and tools needed, discover how to ‘jab’ fibres into basic shapes and build your own frameworks from wire. Discover the haunted side of stitching with Witchy Stitching by Meg Black. Bewitch your home with patterns inspired by gothic art, Halloween curiosities, haunted holidays and witchy oddities. Featuring 25 projects for all abilities, new and seasoned stitchers are welcome here. Stitch your own spooky abode, or ghosts and ghouls to adorn your walls. Create a garden of carnivorous plants, or a vintage Halloween carnival. Bring haunted twists to Halloween and your favourite holidays with a gingerdead house at Creepmas and skeleton bunnies for Easterween. With everything you need on how to get started – key material lists, easy-to-follow charts and all of Meg’s stitching tricks – this grimoire is your essential stitchcraft companion. HerbertPress@bloomsbury.com www.bloomsbury.com/herbertpress ACORN FABRICS Acorn Fabrics has some lovely new fabrics. These include: Aruba pink: a lightweight cotton/linen blend with a beautiful soft handle. Ideal for summer shirts and blouses. Aruba 93 sky: a lightweight cotton/linen blend with a beautiful soft handle. Ideal for summer shirts and blouses. Aruba powder: a lightweight cotton/linen blend with a beautiful soft handle. Ideal for summer shirts and blouses. King HD pink: a crisp and sharp stripe on a 100 percent cotton poplin in a beautiful summer pink, perfect to brighten up your wardrobe. King HD ice blue: a crisp and sharp stripe on a 100 percent cotton poplin in a subtle light blue colour, which is a nice change from the classic mid blue stripes. sales@acornfabrics.co.uk www.acornfabrics.com
20 MOUSELOFT New to Mouseloft are: Christmas Post Robin and Snowy Highland Cow, card and envelope kits, perfect for decorations or gifts. Each kit contains: aida fabric (14hpi Zweigart), threads (DMC), needle and full, easy-to-follow instructions and a mounting card, 88mm x 114mm, 64mm aperture, with envelope. www.mouseloft.co.uk SKITTLEDOG Just What You Need... are the pocket-sized guides to sewing and crochet mastery. Need to sew on a button? Want to have a go at crochet but don’t know where to start? These stylish and super-practical, introductory guides have exactly what’s needed to master these perennially popular crafts. With step-by-step illustrations throughout, these handy pocket manuals include Sewing: The basics (from the parts of the sewing machine to taking measurements). Essential techniques (from seam types to button sewing) and advanced techniques (including inserting a zip and attaching a pocket). Also, Crochet: Before you start (gathering yarn, crochet hooks and other useful haberdashery items). There’s also basic stitches and advanced techniques. www.instagram.com/skittledogbooks HAWTHORN HANDMADE Keep your needle safe and secure with this fun and practical Tarot Card needle minder - a must-have accessory for embroidery, cross stitch, and mystical crafters. Crafted in the UK from FSC sustainably sourced birch plywood, this high-quality needle minder features a strong neodymium magnet on the back, plus a separate magnet to hold it in place. Simply sandwich your fabric between the magnets, or attach it to your cuff, lapel, sewing machine, embroidery stand, or any other surface for easy needle access. info@hawthornhandmade.co.uk www.hawthornhandmade.com
Bring Peppa Pig, her friends and family to life with easy techniques in these officially licensed Peppa Pig books! Each collection of over 20 adorable toys features Peppa, George, Mummy Pig, Daddy Pig, and the newest addition, baby Evie! HASBRO and PEPPA PIG and all related trademarks and characters TM & © 2025 Hasbro/Hasbro Consumer Products Licensing Ltd. Peppa Pig © 2003 Astley Baker Davies Ltd. and Hasbro Consumer Products Licensing Ltd. Peppa Pig created by Mark Baker and Neville Astley. All Rights Reserved. Used with Permission. RRP £16.99 | ISBN 9781446316535 ISBN 9781446316528 | RRP £16.99 New official Peter Rabbit™ titles from Step into the charming world of Peter Rabbit™ with our two new craft books. Crochet adorable amigurumi toys designed by Carla Mitrani or discover 20 knitting patterns by Debbie Bliss for clothes and accessories, all inspired by the tales of Beatrix Potter. New official Peppa Pig titles from Publishing October 2025 Officially licensed by Frederick Warne & Co. Ltd. BEATRIX POTTER™ and PETER RABBIT™ © Frederick Warne & Co., 2025 ISBN 9781446315828 RRP £16.99 ISBN 9781446315798 RRP £16.99 Publishing August 2025 To order, contact emilyf@davidandcharles.com or visit www.davidandcharles.com
VIEW OUR FLIPBOOK CATALOGUE www.artstat.co.uk
23 SHOWS & EVENTS This season’s most unmissable events Shows, news & events New Giving & Living dates present new opportunities The popular, coastal Giving & Living trade show will now take place from Sunday 18th to Tuesday 20th January 2026, in its usual venue, Westpoint in Exeter, just one mile off the M5, in the heart of the beautiful Southwest. The later dates mean that the show no longer clashes with Top Drawer Spring, or Harrogate Christmas Fair. Great news! Giving & Living connects the South West’s tourism driven gift and home market. Exhibitors meet buyers from independent retailers, gallery shops, tourist attractions, heritage sites, holiday parks, garden centres and department stores. The show attracts many attendees who do not visit other trade shows. It’s perfectly timed to give them the opportunity to both refresh and restock their merchandise for the year ahead. “We’re delighted to move the show slightly later in January” says Sales Manager Paul Thomas “We’ll be able to attract businesses to the Southwest that couldn’t previously attend”. For more details on visiting and exhibiting, please visit givingliving.co.uk or call 01934 733 433. Diary dates NY Now 3rd – 5th August, 2025 Javits Centre, NYC https://nynow.com Autumn Fair 7th - 10th September, 2025 Birmingham NEC www.autumnfair.com The Knit Show 7th - 8th September, 2025 The Pavilions, Harrogate https://theknitshow.co.uk Top Drawer 14th – 16th September, 2025 Olympia, London www.topdrawer.co.uk Scotland Trade Fair Autumn 21st - 22nd September, 2025 SEC, Glasgow www.scotlandstradefairs.com Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East 11th – 13th November, 2025 Dubai World Trade Centre https://gifts-lifestyle-middleeast.ae.messefrankfurt.com Harrogate Christmas & Gift 11th-14th January, 2026 Harrogate Convention Centre www.harrogatefair.com CHSI Stitches to pause in 2026 ICHF Events has announced that the craft industry trade show CHSI Stitches will pause in 2026. The show has welcomed more than 250,000 visitors through its doors since it was started in 1976. Simon Burns, ICHF Managing Director said: “CHSI Stitches will pause in 2026. This will allow us to step back and consider the evolving needs of the creative craft industry; shaped by shifting consumer behaviour, digital growth, and new retail models. CHSI Stitches has been running for 50 years and during that time we have welcomed more than 250,000 visitors through the doors. We’re proud to have delivered so many shows and would not have been able to achieve this without the ongoing support of so many brilliant craft businesses, and the talented teams that work in them. We’re very grateful to all of our exhibitors, visitors, and partners. The landscape of the craft industry and business in general has changed dramatically from when CHSI Stitches first started but the passion for creativity remains the same. Our many consumer shows continue to thrive and grow and we hope to continue to expand our reach.”
24 UK Crafters and Makers - Join North America’s Craft Revolution The global craft community is buzzing after another recordsetting edition of h+h americas, In May 2025, h+h americas welcomed 5,180 verified industry professionals to the Donald E. Stephens Convention & Conference Centre in Rosemont, Illinois, USA—a 29.7 percent increase over 2024. Attendees represented 48 countries, all 50 US states, and two US territories, solidifying the event’s position as the most influential B2B handicraft show in North America. “The energy this year was electric,” said Darrin Stern, Vice President of Koelnmesse Inc. We’re seeing incredible demand from international companies—especially from the UK—who recognise the power of the US craft market and want in.” And now, eyes are turning to the newly launched consumer event Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival, as the call for instructors is officially open for 2026. Following this industry momentum, Koelnmesse Inc. is proud to announce that over 175 companies have already committed to exhibit at the 2026 edition of Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival, taking place the weekend before h+h americas. A first-of-its-kind consumer-focused festival, the event invites fibre artists, fabric lovers, paper crafters, sewists, cosplayers, and creative communities to unite under one roof for three days of hands-on learning, shopping, and connection. The open call for instructors is now live, welcoming submissions across all crafting disciplines—from quilting and knitting to scrapbooking, cosplay, spinning, beading, and more. “Initial feedback has been overwhelming,” said Stern. “The energy and enthusiasm are wonderful. People see the vision of bringing all crafts together—and it’s resonating in a big way.” Whether you’re a UK manufacturer, maker or educator - now is the moment to get involved. For UK brands, distributors, and designers seeking North American exposure, h+h americas and Fiber+Fabric Craft Festival offer unmatched access to both trade and consumer audiences—with cross-over potential like never before. Contact for details: Leslie Fleck, Manager International Exhibit Sales: l.fleck@koelnmesse.us Hotel booking made easy: new partnership with bnetwork supports trade fair participants Exhibitors and visitors attending Ambiente, Christmasworld and Creativeworld in 2026 can now plan their trip with even greater ease: The leading international consumer goods fairs held in Frankfurt have launched a new partnership with booking service provider bnetwork. The globally renowned accommodation specialist is offering a curated selection of hotels near the exhibition grounds – with attractive rates and a strong commitment to service – via https://ambiente.bnetwork.com. “With bnetwork, we are gaining a partner that is highly experienced in handling major international events and stands out for its efficiency, transparency and excellent customer care,” says Julia Uherek, Vice President Consumer Goods Fairs at Messe Frankfurt. “Our aim is to offer our exhibitors and visitors simple and budget-conscious hotel booking options to suit every need – especially in times of limited availability and high demand.” bnetwork provides a wide range of accommodation to suit every budget and preference – from business hotels directly adjacent to the fairgrounds to affordable hotels within walking distance. The new service is now available for all three consumer goods fairs, which will take place from 6th to 10th February 2026. For information and bookings, visit https://ambiente. bnetwork.com or email: ambientehotels@bnetwork.com
Alan Provisor ONLINE Fabulous range of braids tassels and cords in amazing colours. Check out the website or call me www.4trimmings.com 01204 465233 | sales@alanprovisor.com Koseli Handmade Our very popular bee-themed items are hand made from 100% wool felt by our talented artisans in Nepal. There is no minimum order or quantity to enable you to try out new lines. We are proud to be a member of BAFTS,the British Association of Fairtrade Shops and Suppliers info@koselihandmade.co.uk 07812 161 168 www.koselihandmade.co.uk The Wholesaler UK is open 24/7/365 for retailers looking for suppliers. www.thewholesaler.co.uk sue@thewholesaler.co.uk 01608 662 298 Trade shows are back, but we never closed! Visit our website or contact us to find out how to book your “virtual” stand and take advantage of our trial listings. 1000s of product photos Detailed at-a-glance information on suppliers. Save your favourite suppliers for future visits The directory is still free to use - no registration. All listings are thoroughly vetted. We only list UK-based wholesalers What’s New? What’s Not New?
26 NY NOW Summer 2025 In the current environment of trade tariffs and supply chain uncertainty, buyers tasked with maintaining and developing retailer inventories are turning to the NY NOW 2025 Summer Market B2B tradeshow as an established and reliable supplier channel. Scheduled for 3rd to 5th August, 2025, at NYC’s Javits Centre, attendance from buyers representing retailers both large and small is anticipated to far exceed 10,000. This large group of buyers is coming to connect in advance of the holiday sales season with an expected 500+ exhibitors offering thousands of the most trending gift, home, and accessories products from the world’s leading manufacturing brands. “With growing uncertainty among retailers regarding their holiday season inventories, finding and maintaining reliable sources for innovative, trending and high-quality products has never been more important,” said Matthew Mathiasen, Show Director of NY NOW. “Among our thousands of attendees who have already registered for the show, independent retailers in particular are showing resilience in their sourcing strategies, and the NY NOW exhibiting suppliers are working in advance to ensure that they are aligned with buyers’ needs in this dynamic and challenging environment.” Hundreds of exhibiting suppliers representing thousands of leading global brands have already committed to NY NOW Summer 2025. Among them is the Harper Group, a major US-based B2B wholesale agency which as a single exhibitor represents 75+ leading home, gift, accessories, fragrance, publishing, and lifestyle brands. In addition to the Harper Group, the following is a selected sampling of notable exhibitors across these vast and broad product categories that will be at NY NOW Summer 2025: DesignWorks Collective, Kikkerland, DECO BOKO, Cody Foster and Co, Ty Inc, Brittany Paige, JPT America, Oh My Mahjong, Viverano, and Matr Boomie. Nearly 7,000 qualified buyers have already registered for NY NOW Summer 2025 with well over 10,000 total expected to be in attendance in August. A selected sampling of notable buyers and buyer groups currently committed to attending, and their respective product categories are listed below: Home: Pottery Barn, Home Nature, Jayson Home, Paper Source, and Zabars. Gift & Lifestyle: Scholastic Online, Hildreth’s, Jung Lee, Garnet Hill, MOTTO, Fire Opal, Draper James, NIC+ZOE, FabFitFun, Dylans Candy Bar, and Sands Casino. Publishing: Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million. “The lineup of both exhibiting suppliers and buyers that have already committed to NY NOW Summer 2025 is indicative of the success we expect in August in bringing these groups together in forming key supply chain relationships,” Mathiasen added. “As always, what NY NOW does best is to create an unparalleled sourcing experience featuring thousands of the most trending products while helping buyers and suppliers maintain and strengthen those relationships that are the lifeline of their business.” For more information on NY NOW or to learn about upcoming events, visit www.nynow.com
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