7 EDITOR’S LETTER On the cover Zweigart has brand-new digital prints on its famous 32ct. Belfast linen - now available for the first time with lovingly designed digital prints - featuring an enchanting wildflower border in a delicate watercolor style as the main motif. Two additional all-over prints complement this digital print theme. See more at www.zweigart.de When life gives you lemons... As we move into the summer season, this issue is packed with the latest products, trends and industry highlights to help you make the most of the months ahead. A key focus, is celebrating excellence across the sector, with coverage of this year’s GOTY winners — recognising the products and brands making a real impact at retail. We also round up the winners of the London Stationery Awards, showcasing the innovation, design and creativity continuing to drive the stationery category forward. With back-to-school preparations underway, we take a look at the latest stationery products set to attract customers ahead of the new term. From stylish desk accessories to practical essentials, this feature highlights opportunities across a consistently strong retail category. Seasonal trends continue to inspire the craft market and fruity-themed crafting takes centre stage. Our “When Life Gives You Lemons” feature explores the products bringing a fresh burst of colour to summer collections. Value also remains an important consideration for both retailers and consumers, which is why we spotlight a selection of craft products and projects retailing at under £15, proving creativity and affordability can go hand in hand. Alongside this, our children’s craft feature looks at products designed to keep younger makers engaged during the holiday season, an area that continues to perform strongly for many stores. We also dedicate a section to buttons and ribbons — classic craft essentials that remain a staple for every household. Whether you’re crafting at the kitchen table, in the garden sunshine or on the go this summer, we hope these pages inspire you to try something new, revisit an old favourite and, above all, enjoy the pleasure of making. Happy crafting! 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 Zweigart SoloCrafts
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