WWW.CRAFTFOCUS.COM CHRISTMAS CRAFTING DIY gifts that wow KEEPSAKES Patchwork & quilting Embroidery & tapestry inspiration from Zweigart WOVEN WONDERS Be inspired! Quality art supplies Family
3 CONTENTS In this issue... REGULARS 9 Industry news What’s happening within the craft and hobby market 13 Brand spanking new Brand spanking new products 72 Bookstand The latest book releases October/ November 2025 31 65 26 FEATURES 31 Embroidery & tapestry Stunning embroidery kits whatever your level 39 Crafty kits Start a new hobby with a craft kit – everything you need is in the box! 43 Christmas crafts Part two of our Christmas special 46 Make your masterpiece It’s never a bad time to top up your art supplies 50 Glues & adhesives Sticky solutions solved! 55 Sewing & stitching Sewing essentials for your craft room 61 Patchwork & quilting Family favourites 65 Trend file: Desktop accessories Pimp your workstation
4 BUSINESS 74 Crafting on prescription Hobbycraft has just released new research, backed by mental health charity Mind, showing that 72 percent of Brits want healthcare professionals to widely recommend arts & crafts for mental wellbeing 76 Creativity & strategy Birmingham-based Guthrie & Ghani embarks on a colourful new chapter after course gives owner Lauren Guthrie the confidence to diversify and expand. 78 The road to net zero Tina McKenzie, Policy Chair, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) explains what net zero has got to do with your business, and how you can help get there 79 AI, art and ownership Faith Capstick, Social Media & Communications Executive of ACID, looks at what Generative AI means for the giftware world 46 39 SHOWS 21 Shows, news & events Stay up to date with what’s happening in your industry 26 Creativeworld trends We take a moment to explore the three new trend worlds you can explore at the upcoming Creativeworld in Frankfurt in February 2026 28 India: A global beacon in gifting India’s grand gifting story: a culture that moves hearts – and markets. Here, the team from Gifts World Expo & Paperworld India, tell us more... FOCUS ON 36 Hardicraft Ichelle Rustad Hauger, marketing manager at Hardicraft talks to Craft Focus about their innovative kits, all designed, assembled and produced in The Netherlands 52 Lavinia stamps Founded in 2006 by Tracey Dutton and Kevin Jones operating from a garden cabin, Lavinia Stamps has since expanded into a leading international seller, employing a team of over 20 across two locations in Ruthin. Tracey and Kevin tell us more... 69 Retailer interview Djamel Benziane, Director, shares more about Aberston.com, a curated B2B wholesale marketplace designed to connect small, design led brands with independent retailers 52 50 13
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7 EDITOR’S LETTER On the cover Our beautiful cover image features patterns from Zweigart’s Booklet 106/102 Festive Joy; featuring: 3984 Murano, 3609 Belfast, 3256 Bellana and 3793 Fein-Aida. For further information, visit: www.zweigart.de/embroidery The golden quarter This crucial time of year is huge for retail as consumers start their Christmas shopping. We’ve been dropping hints of Christmas goodies since the summer – as we know ‘Christmas in July’ is all-important in strategising your marketing, securing stock early and getting a head start on your winter sales. This issue, we have part two of our festive special – featuring everything from traditional Santa motifs to the quirkier donkey cross stitch kits from Heritage Crafts – super fun. Following this, we have Creativeworld’s latest trend predictions curated by Stilbüro bora.herke.palmisano. Always a fascinating read! As a stationery addict, I love making my working from home station a pleasure to be – and so, we have a product feature dedicated to desktop accessories! If that’s not enough, we’ve pulled together a sparkling selection of what’s new and noteworthy across patchwork & quilting, embroidery & tapestry and artist supplies. As always, we have the latest trade fair news and industry updates to keep you abreast of new developments in the retail sector. As you know, we love hearing from you, our valued readers, so do keep in touch – you can email me at editor@craftfocus.com Enjoy the issue! 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 Letistitch Lavinia Stamps
Light Up Your Creativity Bring your ideas to life with just sunlight and water. Our Cyanotype Kit makes it easy. Create stunning blue-and-white prints, cards, and keepsakes in minutes. Ready to create? Visit www.exaclairlimited.com or email enquiries@exaclair.co.uk for details and trade enquiries
9 INDUSTRY NEWS Industry news Latest news from the craft industry Figured’Art appoints Helen Cottrill Figured’Art, a leader in innovative DIY art kits, is proud to welcome Helen Cottrill as its new Business Development Director, with a key focus on expanding the brand’s presence within the UK retail market. Founded in 2018, Figured’Art has rapidly established itself as the market leader in DIY art kits, offering a wide range of creative products including paint by numbers, diamond painting, and other artistic leisure activities. With more than 1,500 exclusive designs and five strategically located distribution centres across Europe and the USA, the company ensures high-quality, accessible creativity delivered within two to three days to customers worldwide. Helen brings with her more than 30 years of experience in the gift and collectible industry, having spent most of her career at Enesco as Marketing and Product Director. Following a brief break during which she worked with Blade and Rose as a Marketing Consultant, Helen is returning to the gift and craft sector full-time. “I’m very product-oriented, and I fell in love with the collection at Figured’Art,” said Helen Cottrill. “The quality and innovation is exceptional, and it was no surprise to discover they are market leaders in their field. The attention to detail really elevates the product—and their 175,000 Instagram followers clearly agree. I see so many exciting opportunities ahead.” Anthony Pinna, Co-Founder of Figured’Art, added: “We’re delighted to be working with Helen. Her wealth of experience in the gift industry, especially in marketing, licensing, and sales, will be a real asset to our continued growth and development in the UK market.” With Helen’s appointment, Figured’Art is set to strengthen its retail presence and build on its mission to make creative expression accessible and enjoyable for everyone. For further information contact helen.cottrill@figuredart.com Pentel celebrate the launch of Hobbycraft TV Pentel is proud to announce its collaboration with Hobbycraft as the UK’s largest arts and crafts retailer marks its 30th anniversary with the launch of Hobbycraft TV. The brand-new TV channel went live on 4th September at 7:30am on Freeview 97, with shows also available online and via YouTube. Viewers can look forward to daily demonstrations from expert crafters, designed to inspire creativity across all skill levels. Hobbycraft TV will make it easier than ever for craft enthusiasts to learn new techniques and purchase the materials they need to bring their projects to life. Steven Hubbard, Board Advisor for Hobbycraft, comments: “At Hobbycraft TV we want to offer a broad and renowned variety of brands, and so we are excited to be partnering with Pentel, who are known globally for their innovative products and affordable stationery range.” Lisa Davis-Lindholm, Pentel’s Channel Manager, adds: “I’m delighted to be working with Hobbycraft TV to promote our exciting range of Pentel Art products on this new channel. It’s refreshing to see a customer investing in new opportunities and growth—especially in a climate where many are reducing their market presence. This forward-thinking approach is both inspiring and encouraging.” This partnership reflects Pentel’s commitment to supporting creativity at every level, while celebrating Hobbycraft’s three decades of success and its innovative move into TV.
10 ACE appoints Paul Griffiths as CEO The Association for Cultural Enterprises is pleased to announce the appointment of Paul Griffiths as its new Chief Executive. Paul brings almost 30 years’ leadership experience across the heritage, museums, and cultural attractions sector, with a strong record of transformation, income diversification, and enterprise growth. Most recently he was CEO in the UAE, overseeing the flagship historic site of Al Jazeera Al Hamra and developing innovative enterprise programmes with international partners. Prior to that, Paul was director of Painshill Park Trust, where he led the charity through a period of financial turnaround, audience growth, and strategic investment. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership roles with English Heritage, managing a 12-site London portfolio including Kenwood House and Eltham Palace, and with the Mary Rose Trust for six years, managing the opening and then running of the new awardwinning museum. Paul said: “I feel honoured to be taking up the role of Chief Executive at ACE at such a pivotal time for the sector. Having worked across the heritage and cultural sector for many years, I know how important the Association is as a source of support, innovation, and advocacy.” National Trust for Scotland launches licensing program The National Trust for Scotland, Scotland’s largest independent conservation charity, has launched its first official brand licensing program. The charity that cares for, shares and speaks up for Scotland’s heritage will, through this initiative, aim to extend the reach of the Trust’s iconic brand; allow audiences across the globe to enjoy a slice of Scotland and the Trust wherever they are; and generate additional funding to support its vital conservation work across Scotland. As a brand and charity looking towards its centenary, the 94-year-old Trust stands for Scottish authenticity, heritage, and quality, and is working alongside partners to develop products that reflect Scotland’s unique stories, people, and places. This includes allowing access to a rich archive of thousands of assets – from historic illustrations, architectural details, and textiles to traditional patterns, botanical drawings, and decorative arts – spanning centuries of Scottish culture and craftsmanship. From architects to poets, beautiful film locations to pink castles – the Trust’s diversity of places offer something for everyone. “We’re excited to launch our first licensing program at National Trust for Scotland,” said Caroline Reid, Director of Commercial Enterprises, National Trust for Scotland. “This is an important moment for the Trust - our licensing program allows us to collaborate with partners who share our values, while unlocking the creative and commercial potential of our collections and places. Every licensed product will help protect Scotland’s nature, beauty and heritage for generations.” Funds raised through licensing will go directly toward the care and conservation of more than 100 historic properties, over 76,000 hectares of countryside, and thousands of artefacts in the charity’s collection. Working alongside Speak Consulting, the Trust will curate a portfolio of licensees across categories such as homeware, gifting, apparel, stationery and food and drink. The program will be underpinned by a strong focus on sustainability, provenance, and storytelling. “We’re thrilled to be partnering with the National Trust for Scotland,” said Graham Speak, Director, Speak Consulting. “An opportunity to create authentic, Scottish ranges alongside the Trust, with its brand, expertise and diverse assets. There’s a wealth of design inspiration and licensing potential – and we’re excited to do new things with a Scottish twist!” Expressions of interest are open to prospective partners in the UK and beyond, with initial partners to be announced over the coming months. Visit: www.nts.org.uk/licensing ACE awards £10,000 Seeds of Change Prize Fund to The Art House The Association for Cultural Enterprises is delighted to announce the winner of its annual Seeds of Change £10,000 prize fund supporting and encouraging sustainable initiatives within the cultural sector. The 2025 prize fund has been awarded to The Art House, Wakefield for its creative initiative, From Earth to Cloth. This truly sustainable project works with the local gardening community, creatives and The Art House’s own urban orchard space to create a unique range of naturally dyed, handcrafted homeware items for retail and wholesale. The judges loved the project, calling it “an innovative example of vertical integration across the supply chain. It adds value, improves sustainability and enhances their core mission.” The award was presented at an exclusive event held at the Design Museum, London. Lucy Juniper, Co-Executive Director, The Art House, said, “We are so delighted to receive the Seeds of Change Award from the Association for Cultural Enterprises. It will mean so much to our team at The Art House and we’re all super excited to get started with the project.” The Seeds of Change prize fund is designed to foster greater creativity and dynamism within income generation and environmental sustainability across the cultural sector, inspiring arts, heritage and cultural organisations to think about creative ways of generating income while improving their sustainable impact.
11 INDUSTRY NEWS Independent stationery brand wins at 2025 Stationery Awards Independent stationery brand, Under the Rowan Trees, is proud to announce its win at the 2025 Stationery Awards, taking home the Best Online Retailer award. The results were revealed at the awards ceremony following the first day of the London Stationery Show. Recognising innovation, excellence and impact across the stationery industry, the Stationery Awards are judged by an independent panel of experts and receive entries from leading retailers and manufacturers across the UK and beyond. Founded by Danielle Stanley, Under the Rowan Trees began as a hobby in 2015 and has since blossomed into a thriving online shop and community for stationery lovers, known for its curated selection of journaling supplies, creative subscription boxes and its signature personal touch. “As a teeny tiny business, I was shocked to be a finalist for the Best Online Retailer category, and I still can’t believe we won!” said Danielle. “Under the Rowan Trees has grown and changed over the last 10 years, as have I as a business owner, and I’m so proud that I’m able to show that us little guys can be just as amazing (if not more so) than the big brands with huge teams and deep pockets” Danielle also expressed heartfelt thanks to the Under the Rowan Trees community, “I want to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped us to get here, including my team, the brands we work with, the business support community and most importantly, to our customers who support and champion us every day.” Under the Rowan Trees continues to lead the way in independent stationery retail, offering sustainable, joy-filled tools for journaling, planning, creativity and self-expression, all from their charming HQ in rural Northumberland. Visit: www.undertherowantrees.co.uk Zebra pen continues to strengthen its UK team Japanese writing instruments manufacturer, Zebra Pen, is delighted to highlight the appointment of three new team members as it seeks to accelerate its growth further across the UK. Having recently moved from Snopake Brands, Sarah Carnell-Grist has taken on a new National Account Manager role within the company. By bringing a wealth of experience with her, which includes over a decade at STABILO, Sarah will be focused on developing the business’ commercial and educational channels. Similarly, with Zebra looking to extend their operations within the independent retailer sector, well-known and respected Territory Sales Manager Gary Smith has now made the switch from Pilot after 16 years’ service. Following seven years with the Exacompta Clairefontaine group, Lawrence Savage has also joined as UK Marketing Manager to complete the new trio. Lawrence will be working closely with the new sales team as they seek to expand their product ranges. UK Managing Director, Andy Hales comments, “Since we made the move to our new Runcorn premises last October we’ve been going through a transitional period, which has enabled us to make a number of enhancements within our operational capabilities, as well as expanding our personnel. It’s been my pleasure to welcome Lawrence, Sarah and Gary to the team as we continue to drive our development through enriched customer relationships, alongside a more diversified brand portfolio.” Visit: https://zebrapen.co.uk
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. 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?
13 BRAND SPANKING NEW Brand spanking new Check out some new and exciting products in the current market FAB DAB DO The key message Fab Dab Do loves to share is ‘what a difference a colour makes.’ By using the same stencil but switching up the colours, customers can create a design that feels personal to the person they’re gifting it to. Each of the kits comes with two paint colours. For these samples, neon tones that really pop have been used, and there’s a Christmas set with red, gold, and forest green, perfect as a festive gift add-on. +44 (0)203 745 2565 www.fabdabdo.co.uk CREATIVE SOLUTIONS This Christmas Soft Plush Fabric from Creative Solutions is made from 100 percent polyester soft plush fabrics (240161). Available in five colours, measuring 48cm x 70cm. +44 (0)1782 399 119 gill.creativesolutions@btconnect.com www.creativesolutionsgb.com JAKAR INTERNATIONAL LTD M+R has been crafting premium-quality products since 1922, and their latest innovation continues that legacy- an automatic pencil sharpening machine designed for precision and ease. Just place your pencil in the top and let go, the machine takes over, stopping automatically at the perfect point every time. An adjustable dial accommodates various pencil diameters, while a built-in broken lead discharger keeps this sharpener hassle-free. Just charge it up using the included USB cable, and you’re ready to go! The RRP is £79.99. +44 (0)20 8381 7000 info@jakar.co.uk www.jakar.co.uk HERITAGE CRAFTS LTD New to Heritage Crafts is We Three Kings (CRTK1925), part of the Peter Underhill Collection. The design measures: 20.5cm x 12cm and has an RRP: £23. sales@hcrafts.com www.hcrafts.com
14 ACORN FABRICS The Balmoral 200 is a premium-quality cotton herringbone fabric designed specifically for elegant blouses and formal shirts. Woven from 100 percent high-grade cotton, this fabric features a subtle herringbone weave that adds texture and depth while maintaining a smooth, soft hand feel. Ideal for both men’s and women’s shirting, Balmoral 200 combines timeless style with modern versatility. The herringbone pattern, named for its resemblance to the bones of a herring fish, dates back to ancient Rome, where it was used in stone road construction. In textiles, herringbone gained prominence in traditional British and Irish wool tailoring. Today, it remains a classic weave known for its subtle texture and visual interest—equally suited to modern cotton shirting fabrics like Balmoral 200. The Balmoral 200 Ecru is a soft neutral colour ideal for a vintage or minimalist aesthetic. Whether you’re tailoring a refined wedding shirt or creating a stylish office blouse, the Balmoral 200 Ecru offers exceptional drape and durability, making it a go-to fabric for both casual elegance and formal wear. The Balmoral 200 is available in the following colours: white, ecru, sky blue, mid blue, lilac, pink and black. sales@acornfabrics.co.uk www.acornfabrics.com THEMAGICTOUCH TheMagicTouch has announced the arrival of the lowest cost ever for an entry-level desktop A4 tonerbased full colour transfer printer. The HP Colorlaser Jet Pro4202 model offers compatibility with all CMYK transfer papers from TheMagicTouch. These include transfers for white and dark garment decoration on cotton, linen, silk, polyester, and mixed fabrics. This, together with the other available transfer papers, offers the ability to transfer to a multitude of nontextile products including wood, metal, PU, board, glass, cork, ceramics, decals, candles. and even human skin using the temporary tattoo A4 paper. This compact printer is available directly from HP resellers for less than £250 (inc VAT) and offers opportunity for those yet to expand their range of transfer applications to existing and new customers. The established toner-based transfer technology continues to create new opportunities for product decoration and now makes it accessible for those within budget constraints especially within the startup, craft, hobby, education, and charity markets. The HP printer model, when not printing transfers, is suitable for everyday office and home use producing invoices, stickers, labels, and a range of laser-based media products such as luggage tags and wristbands. One simple affordable solution with endless possibilities. sales@themagictouch.co.uk www.themagictouch.co.uk GILDED OF OXFORD Step into a new chapter of stationery sophistication with this Hardback Sticky Notebook — a beautifully crafted designed to charm discerning buyers and delight customers seeking both practicality and polish. Inside each slim, durable cover lies an array of coordinated sticky note sizes in elegant colour palettes — perfect for bookmarking, planning, and capturing inspiration on the go. The sturdy hardback design not only protects every page but also transforms these sticky notes into a refined desk or handbag essential that stands apart from traditional stationery offerings. Samantha@sales.gildedwords.com www.gildedofoxford.com
Celebrate 50 Years of Fabric Excellence with Acorn Fabrics Ltd! Join us in celebrating half a century of quality and craftsmanship at Acorn Fabrics Ltd, your trusted family-run business! For 50 years, we’ve been supplying the finest fabrics by the metre to the public, bespoke shirtmakers, designers, and costume makers alike. Discover our delightful range, from cozy brushed country checks and classic striped shirting to luxurious Needlecord and delicate fine Voiles. Whether you’re creating a one-of-a-kind garment or seeking the perfect material for your next project, we have everything you need – including buttons and interlining! Visit us today and experience the warmth and dedication of a family business that’s passionate about fabrics. Here’s to 50 more years of inspiring creativity! Acorn Fabrics Ltd – Where Quality Meets Tradition. sales@acornfabrics.co.uk • 01282 698 662 www.acornfabrics.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 0203 745 2565 • hello@fabdabdo.co.uk www.facebook.com/FabDabDo • www.instagram.com/fabdabdo_/ www.fabdabdo.co.uk Inspire kids’ creativity this festive season with our complete T-shirt painting kits! Each set comes with a T-shirt, stencil, mess-free fabric paint dabbers (also sold separately), and a booklet full of fun design ideas. Our new seasonal kits feature delightful designs like Snow Globes, Funny Baubles, Gnomes, Pixie Fairies, and the all-time favourites Unicorns, Rockets, and cute Pets. There’s something for every child! Perfect as a pre-Christmas craft activity or a fun festive gift that kids can proudly wear. CHRISTMAS TSHIRTS: THE WINNER OVER “I’M TOO HOT” JUMPERS! Koseli Handmade Unusual decorations for Autumn and Winter, beautifully hand made by our artisans in Nepal using 100% wool felt. Buying from us allows our workers to support their families while working under fair trade conditions. info@koselihandmade.co.uk 07812 161 168 www.koselihandmade.co.uk
16 CREATIVE SOLUTIONS Creative Solutions has a variety of festive panels. Each panel is 45cm x 45cm and suitable for cushions, bags and more. Featured are the Happy Snowman and Happy Gnome designs. +44 (0)1782 399 119 gill.creativesolutions@btconnect.com www.creativesolutionsgb.com FUTUREBLAST LIMITED T/A SOLOCRAFTS This sparkling bead embroidery leaf sampler from VDV of Kyiv features nine autumn leaves picked out in beads which give a 3-D effect. The kit contains satin fabric with printed chart pattern, pre-sorted seed beads, beading needle and thread and a paper pattern with instructions. Beads are sewn a row at a time to build up the picture with a simple half cross stitch. This finished piece measures 40cm x 40cm, contains 142 grams of beads and retails for £60.99. +44 (0)161 464 7313 sales@solocrafts.com www.solocrafts.com BEHRENS Exciting new collections are arriving all the time at Behrens, from children’s prints to florals… and also the beginning of Christmas 2026! +44 (0)161 872 1444 www.behrens.co.uk
HAVE YOU SEEN OUR NEW COLLECTIONS? Founded in 1834, we are Manchester’s oldest textile company. With 190 successful years trading at the forefront of the textile industry, we’re a business that you can trust. We have been supplying into all areas of the wholesale and retail markets ever since the industrial revolution, never comprising integrity. As our customer, you gain access to an international sourcing and distribution network. This is supported by our market expertise, significant experience and sound technical knowledge. BOOK YOUR VIEWING SOON Call: 0161 872 1444 WWW.BEHRENS.CO.UK New craft books from Batsford is distributed by Abrams & Chronicle Books info@abramsandchronicle.co.uk View our latest catalogue: www.batsfordbooks.com/catalogues
18 STOCKWELL CERAMICS Stand out ceramic brooches featuring glorious heritage designs by William Morris and the iconic tiles of William De Morgan. Handmade by Stockwell Ceramics in Cornwall, UK. info@stockwellceramics.co.uk www.stockwellceramics.co.uk CYGNET YARNS Soft, warm, and bursting with fuzzy possibilities, our new ‘Flump’ blanket yarn is the perfect way to cocoon yourself in cloud-like comfort! In a palette of gentle, calming pastels this lovable chenille yarn makes an excellent choice for knitting or crocheting cosy baby blankets, winter warming jumpers and cosy cardigans. Perfect for amigurumi toys, finger knitting and super chunky, quick knit and crochet projects. Available in a 300g weight in five shades. sales@cygnetyarns.com www.cygnetyarns.com THORNDOWN PAINTS The Christmas Stencil Craft Pack contains six stencils cut from an A4 sheet of durable and reusable 190gsm material. These stencils have been designed so that you can create endless scenes and decorate any shiny material whether it be glass, plastic, or tiles. Create attractive tea light holders with old jam jars, or Christmas chutney for the Christmas table or to give out as gifts to friends and family. Old plastic bottles or soup pots can be reused and turned into snow globes with a bit of Peelable Glass Paint, water, and glitter! They’re small enough to be usable on smaller surface areas such as jam jars, but large enough to create beautiful scenes. Stencils supplied in the box are of an angel, Christmas tree, Santa Claus, snowflake, snowman, and stars. Also included in the box is an art brush and information sheet with tips, advice and instructions on different applications and craft techniques. studio@thorndown.co.uk https://thorndown.co.uk
www.cygnetyarns.com 12-14 Adelaide Street | Bradford | BD5 0EA T: 01274 743374 | E: sales@cygnetyarns.com Add a touch of warmth this Winter with our cosy, high-quality yarns and free pattern support. Our knitting yarns are designed to inspire and excite our community of crafters at an affordable price. Releases Dec 16th Releases Nov 7th All-New Twenty to Make: Beaded Jewellery RRP: £6.99 | ISBN: 9781800922518 Crafting the Wheel of the Year RRP: £15.99 | ISBN: 9781800922372 The Bracelet Bible RRP: £14.99 | ISBN: 9781800923737 All-New Twenty to Make: Wirework Jewellery RRP: £6.99 | ISBN: 9781800923188 Craft your Autumn! trade.searchpress.com sales@searchpress.com 01892 510 850
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21 SHOWS & EVENTS This season’s most unmissable events Shows, news & events 4 Days of inspirational content & features Autumn Fair delivered four days of educational and inspiration content, and immersive brand activations. Highlights included the Retail Corner Stage, styled as a British high street shopfront, where sessions on trends, merchandising and retail innovation provided practical takeaways; and the Buyers Retreat, which offered, workshops, and networking. The Gift Of The Year Showcase which attracted buyers eager to discover the winners of The Giftware Association’s prestigious 2025 Awards, shone a spotlight on the very best in design and retail-ready gifting and bestsellers for the coming year. Gemma Sault, Managing Director, of the Giftware Association commented, “This has been my first time at the show as an exhibitor, which has been very exciting, having attended in my previous life, in my roles within retail merchandising and trading. It has been an incredible opportunity to meet and get to know so many of our Gift Association members, to see their businesses showcase incredible products, but also to meet new members and to develop opportunities for the Association. I think the content, showcases and Pitch Live in particular have been absolutely fantastic, and the educational content has been brilliant to really inspire and help businesses grow and also encourage new buyers and new people who are here to learn new things that will help their businesses grow and ultimately help save our High Streets. Autumn Fair has been a win all round.” The Retail Makeover Mission was a particular highlight. The show brought the new initiative to life with one-to-one mentoring sessions by the retail Task Team and inspiring talks. The oneto-one sessions offered personalised advice tailored to retailers’ business challenges and the expert mentors delivered over 20 hours of personalised guidance covering buying strategy, marketing, PR & customer experience, operations, data, and visual merchandising. Jenny Brandon from Scape Interiors West in Bournemouth found the mentoring sessions invaluable. “I’ve spoken to three of the mentoring experts, and I think everyone’s given me a very interesting perspective on marketing, on branding, and community engagement. We often get stuck in our own ways of doing things, and it’s interesting to hear their perspective. I would highly recommend anybody else to do it.” Tasker Teamer, Deryane Tadd from award-winning store The Dressing Room in St Albans spent the day at Autumn Fair with Katie Gibbs, owner of the Retail Makeover Mission winning store OSO Boutique. She said, “I have loved being a part of the Retail Mission Task Team. I have found it really inspiring and enjoyed working with Katie and her team and understanding the challenges they are facing. It has been an insightful process and a joy to see everything we have been working on already having a positive impact.” Fellow Task Team member, Claire Bevan, Head of Retail at the Natural History Museum added, “I’ve had an amazing time at Autumn Fair, I’ve caught up with some existing suppliers and have found and met some new brands and products. I’ve been engaging with the Retail Makeover Mission content; it’s been really inspiring to look at retail from the High Street view. Coming from a heritage background, seeing new trends coming through across the show and on the stages is fantastic.” The Retail Corner also hosted live, inspiring talks and expert insights from the two Retail Makeover Mission winners and their task team helpers, exploring how independent retailers can transform their businesses and bring their brand stories to life. Visit: www.autumnfair.com Diary dates Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East/ Paperworld Middle East 11th – 13th November, 2025 Dubai World Trade Centre https://gifts-lifestyle-middleeast.ae.messefrankfurt.com https://paperworld-middle-east. ae.messefrankfurt.com Harrogate Christmas & Gift 11th – 14th January, 2026 Harrogate Convention Centre www.harrogatefair.com Giving & Living 18th – 20th January, 2026 Westpoint, Exeter https://givingliving.co.uk Toy Fair 20th – 22nd January, 2026 Olympia, London www.toyfair.co.uk Spring Fair 1st – 4th February, 2026 NEC, Birmingham www.springfair.com Creativeworld 6th – 9th February, 2026 Messe Frankfurt, Germany https://creativeworld. messefrankfurt.com Gifts World Expo & Paperworld India 26th – 28th February, 2026 Bombay Exhibition Center, Mumbai https://giftsworldexpo.com/mum https://paperworldindia. in.messefrankfurt.com/mumbai
22 Paperworld Middle East - registration now open! Recognised as one of the most influential trade shows for paper, stationery, office, and school supplies, this is where the global industry comes to connect, discover, and grow in person. From powerhouse brands to breakthrough innovations, the entire supply chain is at your fingertips. Whether you’re a retailer, distributor, owner, manufacturer, or entrepreneur, this is your platform to source what’s new, spot what’s next, and spark partnerships that translate into growth. Taking place 11th to 13th November 2025 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, join 450+ global exhibitors and 15,000+ professionals* ready to do business. *Includes visitors attending Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East, co-located with Paperworld Middle East. Visit: https://paperworld-middle-east. ae.messefrankfurt.com Toy Fair Visitor Registration Opens for January 2026 Visitor registration has opened for Toy Fair 2026, which will return to Olympia, London on 20th January for three days of new product launches, industry networking and trends. Now in its 72nd year, the UK’s largest dedicated toy, games and hobby trade show will once again bring together a wide mix of exhibitors from across the industry. Alongside household names such as The LEGO Group, Playmobil UK Ltd, and Galt (part of the Jumbo Group), the event will also showcase a strong line-up of brands exhibiting creative products from the arts and crafts category. Visitors can expect to find companies such as Craft Buddy Limited, Curious Universe, Djeco, SES CREATIVE, and Paper Projects Ltd. A buzzing hub for retailers and the wider industry to meet face-to-face with manufacturers and distributors over three busy days. Toy Fair is the ideal place to build new business connections, strengthen existing relationships and access exclusive on-site retail offers. Rebecca Deeming-Mitchell, Senior Communications & Events Manager at the BTHA, said, “Last year, the show welcomed more than 250 exhibitors to the halls of Olympia, and this year promises to be just as vibrant. We are delighted to see many leading manufacturers returning, as well as a host of fresh faces, and we look forward to welcoming retailers from across the industry. Exhibitors will be bursting with innovation, creativity and plenty of inspiration for those interested in arts and crafts.” Be the first to discover thousands of new products and innovations across the industry. Register for a visitor pass via the website now on the Toy Fair website: www.toyfair.co.uk
23 SHOWS & EVENTS Exciting agenda for trade fair trio Christmasworld is fully booked with key players such as Blachere, Decostar, Edelman, Fotodiastasi, Goodwill, Hoff, Inge’s Christmas Decor, Kaemingk, Koopman International, Müller Kerzen and Weihnachtsland. In 2026, party goods and festive items will expanded as a supplementary product segment in Hall 4.0 – with new exhibitors such as Dimav, Karaloon and Makotex. With a focus on the salesboosting experience factor of Christmas and seasonal decorations, the Christmasworld Take Off programme is entering its second round. With guided tours and keynotes, it is specifically tailored to decision-makers for large decoration projects – from 2026, it will take place on the Monday of the fair and will have an expanded European focus. The new Coffee & Connect format invites visitors to exchange ideas with suppliers from the core segment of visual merchandising & light. Further inspiration for added wow effect and stronger buying incentives at the point of sale is provided by the special presentation Decoration Unlimited with a multi-sensory staging, this time under the title ‘Tropical Bounty’. Creativeworld: Certified training for retailers Creativeworld will be a vibrant event featuring brands such as Colart, Da Vinci, Fedrigoni-Fabriano, Ghiant, Gründl, Jacquard, Max Bringmann-Folia, Rico Design, Royal Talens, Schmincke and Staedtler. New exhibitors include Alize and De Bondt in Textile Design. To better match the creative community, the Creative Academy is becoming a certified training platform. Greater visibility and recognised certification provide an additional key competitive advantage. To optimise visitor flow, Creative Academy will move to Hall 1.2 and Creativeworld Trends to Hall 1.1. In addition, the new ‘Graffiti Wall’ hands-on special area allows visitors to immerse themselves in this urban art form. There are exciting synergies with Ambiente in the Giving segment in the Urban Gifts, Stationery & School product range, with a very high-quality selection of design-oriented gifts, stationery, writing instruments and school supplies. Chic Mic, Donkey Products, Kikkerland, Maybach, Rössler Papier, Troika and Waldmann are among the exhibitors. New exhibitors include Faber-Castell and Rico Design, who will be exhibiting at both fairs, Creativeworld and Ambiente Giving. Visit: https://creativeworld.messefrankfurt.com
24 Go West in the New Year! As we head into the Golden Quarter for gifting the team at Giving & Living is looking ahead to one of the first trade sourcing events of 2026, due to take place from 18-20 January at Westpoint, Exeter. For those who enjoy visiting this fabulous independent show – and others who’ve yet to sample the delights of the West Country – we take a sneaky peak at what’s in store. If you're looking for a reason to visit Giving & Living in 2026, why not start with one of the best selections of Designed & made in Britain products you can find at any UK trade exhibition. As the appetite for high quality, locally made British goods continues to get stronger, retailers can differentiate themselves from the crowd by buying British. Unique to Giving & Living is the Coastal Path, a sector devoted to the beautiful British seaside and its countryside environs, which help to bring so much business to the all-important tourist trade. Retailers from all around the UK who hope to stimulate tourism in their region would benefit from the inspiration offered by this vital and vibrant show sector. Bringing together these key elements of the show are the Sustainability Stars, which highlight the vital eco-friendly and ethical credentials that help make our industry a socially, economically and environmentally responsible place. For the 2026 event, Giving & Living will once again be proud to host the Gift of the Year showcase, which brings a fantastic variety of innovative new products to the show floor in Exeter. Old School meets the New Wave For the forthcoming event the show is delighted to welcome back a wonderful cohort of loyal, long-term exhibitors, joined by an exciting wave of companies that are new to Giving & Living in 2026 or returning after an absence of many years. Alongside regulars that include Quay Traders, JBA Souvenirs and Pineapple Island will be Colcards and Becky Bettesworth, both returning after many years, whilst amongst the new exhibitors are Cortina Footwear, Sticky Resin, Stosa, and Zebra Pens. Mike Anderson, MD of the show’s organisers Hale Events, said: “2026 is the year for everyone to pull together and ensure our industry continues to not just survive but thrive. One of the best ways to do this is through smart and savvy product sourcing that will tempt consumers to part with their cash and encourage them to support the stores on their local high streets. This isn’t the time to have the same tired old stock on your shelves, but to take a punt on something fresh – give new makers a chance or try different lines from your preferred suppliers that will inspire shoppers and help keep those tills ringing. Giving & Living is the place to fulfil those needs and we look forward to welcoming visitors from all around the UK to our show in January.” For more information about the show and to register to attend visit the website: givingliving.co.uk. Companies interested in exhibiting can contact Paul on 01934 733433 or apply online: givingliving.co.uk/exhibiting/book-your-stand The Greeting Card Expo to join NY NOW NY NOW has announced the renewal of its strategic partnership with the Greeting Card Association (GCA) to co locate their respective industry leading events in New York City beginning in 2026. The collaboration will debut with GCA’s *Noted The Greeting Card Expo taking place within the NY NOW Winter Market, February 1st to 3rd, 2026, at the Javits Centre, New York. "This partnership brings together the top events in our respective sectors," said Matthew Mathiasen, Show Director of NY NOW. "By aligning with NY NOW, we're creating new opportunities for buyers and exhibitors to connect across product categories. GCA has done remarkable work in making *Noted The Greeting Card Expo the go-to destination for the greeting card and stationery community." Founded in 2019, The Greeting Card Expo is the largest independent gathering of greeting card makers in North America. The event brings together creators, publishers, and retailers to explore new products, spark collaboration, and celebrate the diversity and creativity of the industry. As part of the agreement, the show will feature a dedicated pavilion within the NY NOW Winter Market show floor. Organisers expect the addition to bring 50 to 70 new exhibitors and boost attendance. The show will also serve as an official judging location for the 37th Annual Louie Awards, GCA's prestigious honours recognising outstanding greeting card design. Carlos LLansó, Executive Director of the Greeting Card Association said: "This collaboration strengthens our platform and expands our reach, benefiting our members and the wider creative community. We look forward to launching this new chapter together in February." NY NOW Winter Market 2026 takes place 1st to 3rd February, 2026, at the Javits Centre in New York City.
26 CREATIVEWORLD We take a moment to explore the three new trend worlds you can explore at the upcoming Creativeworld in Frankfurt in February 2026 Romantic, rebellious or retro: the Creativeworld Trends 2026 showcase creative movements that celebrate stylistic diversity and inspire a more conscious approach to shaping the world of DIY. Curated by Stilbüro bora.herke.palmisano, the Creativeworld Trends 2026 set the tone for the coming season with three style worlds: modern romantics, new rebels and cool classics. They merge craftsmanship, emotion and innovation into a powerful trend preview: delicate lace and botanical illustrations meet experimental materials, bold colour effects and college aesthetics. “The trends reveal just how diverse creativity has become today – a colourful keyboard of styles that swing between nostalgia, experimentation and individuality,” explains Claudia Herke of bora.herke.palmisano. As the world’s leading trade fair for the hobby, craft and arts supply industry, Creativeworld once again becomes the global stage for creative trends, products and inspiration from 6th to 9th February 2026 thus reaffirming its status as vital source of ideas for the retail trade. Trends 2026
27 CREATIVEWORLD 1. Modern romantics: Gentle yearning, crafted by hand Delicate, intricate and nostalgic – modern romantics is all about reviving classic handcraft techniques. Pearl embroidery, lace accessories and botanical watercolours bring poetic charm to stationery, textiles and jewellery. Personalised packaging and cut-outs carry added meaning, while brooches are making a comeback. Layers, sketches and tactile fabrics highlight the softness and quiet emotion of this style. 3. Cool classics: College style meets DIY statement Bold lettering, striking emblems and laid-back sportiness define cool classics. This trend blends retro flair with a spirit of personalisation – through upcycling, paracord, knitting techniques and jewellery made from semi-precious stones. Handwritten typography and handmade knots turn everyday basics into stylish statements. The look invites creators to reinterpret familiar forms and create maximum impact with simple techniques. 2. New rebels: Unrestrained creativity meets sustainability new rebels stand for freedom, expression and conscious rule-breaking. Splashes of paint, holograms, 3D effects and the spontaneous use of techniques like dripping, spraying and modelling set the tone. Sustainable alternatives replace conventional plastic foils, while stickers, textile dyes, tufting and resin create new possibilities. Even embroidery may become subversive – when paint splatters are stitched with thread. NEXT TRADE FAIR DATES Creativeworld will continue to take place at the same time as Ambiente and Christmasworld at the Frankfurt exhibition centre. 6th to 9th February 2026 Ambiente/Christmasworld: 6th to 10th February 2026 “All three trend worlds demonstrate that DIY today is far more than a pastime – it mirrors personal tastes, styles and values,” says Herke of bora.herke.palmisano. The Creativeworld Trends 2026, staged in Hall 1.1, encourage and inspire a specifically personalised creative language by mixing techniques, colours and materials – playful, expressive or structured. There’s no doubt that handicrafts are increasingly becoming an expression of a lifestyle that values individuality, freedom and sustainability.
INDIA: A GLOBAL BEACON IN GIFTING India’s grand gifting story: a culture that moves hearts – and markets. Here, the team from Gifts World Expo & Paperworld India, tell us more... In India, gifting transcends the simple act of giving — it’s a profound expression of emotion, identity, and tradition. Whether wrapped in rich silks or infused with the scent of sandalwood, a gift in India is never just an object; it’s a heartfelt narrative, silently conveying appreciation, legacy, and connection. Deeply rooted in age-old customs yet constantly evolving with modern innovation and design, India’s gifting culture represents a language of emotion that goes far beyond functionality. Today, this powerful cultural force has matured into a flourishing industry. According to a recent report by TechSci Research, the Indian gifting market is valued at USD 75.16 billion and is expected to grow to USD 92.32 billion by 2030 — driven by a blend of emotional significance, cultural richness, and sophisticated design sensibility. The sentiment behind the gift Gifting in India is not merely seasonal or obligatory, it’s instinctive and deeply emotional. From festivals and weddings to business milestones, new beginnings, or simple gestures of gratitude, the intent behind a gift carries far more weight than its price. This emotional depth cuts across socioeconomic lines. Whether it’s a lavish society wedding or a modest household celebration, gifting serves to honour, bless, and delight. One of the most talked-about examples is the Ambani family wedding, where even the invitation was a gift in itself—a temple-shaped box, adorned with silver and gold, playing devotional hymns and holding keepsakes designed to be cherished. Even on the global stage, Indian leaders have carried this tradition forward. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic gifts—such as a brass Bodhi tree, traditional sculptures from Bihar, or educational puzzle games— reflect India’s cultural identity and ethos. A fusion of tradition, innovation and sustainability India’s gifting industry is driven by multiple forces: its rich heritage, modern aesthetics, changing consumer behaviour, and a growing preference for experience-led and sustainable offerings. From traditional Diwali diyas and goldleaf sweets to bamboo tech accessories in eco-conscious gift hampers, the segment is a seamless blend of old and new. Key segments driving India’s gifting landscape Luxury & Premium Gifting The luxury segment has seen exponential growth, where every item tells a story. Gift hampers combine Mysore silk scarves with gourmet chocolates and truffles; fragrance boxes feature scents paired with Indian classical ragas. From handcrafted artifacts and limitededition collectibles to pashmina shawls, premium teas, and tech-enabled devices, these gifts are designed for a discerning clientele. Personalisation and regional pride are hallmarks of this segment. Festive & Seasonal Gifting India’s year-round festival calendar, including Diwali, Eid, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Christmas fuels a robust demand for seasonal gifting. Artisanal sweets, designer lanterns, silver items, sustainable décor, and curated pooja hampers dominate this space. Cultural relevance, rather than just visual appeal, guides gift selection. 28
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