Craft Focus - Apr/May (Issue 66)

Which designs are proving most popular? Our cross stitch kits are really popular. They are simple enough for a beginner to master without too much trouble and they’re also great for craft pros who like to finish a project! Our new felt kits went down a storm at CHSI Stitches, too. They are packaged in little jars and the end product can be crafted into a badge, keyring or decoration. We have sloth, llama and ice cream designs, to name just a few. The little felt pizza badge is really cute. Who do you see as your target end user? Our target customer is 18 - 40 years of age and enjoys fun craft activities that aren’t too serious. They love to craft whilst having a cuppa and watching Netflix – bliss! One project won’t be enough for them – they are craft devotees! Do you find the British craft industry an exciting and inspiring sector to work in? The past few years have seen an amazing change. There are so many fun brands emerging and some of the more established companies are reacting to the new breed of craft consumers who want something a little different, modern and innovative. We met you this year at CHSI Stitches – do you exhibit at any other events? I set up shop at Kirstie Allsopp’s Handmade Fair, which is fantastic fun. I hope to add a gift fair to our trade show schedule too. How did Stitches go for you this year? It was our second year there and we experienced a growth in orders from both new and current customers. Some buyers frommultiples came by the stand and we met lots of lovely independents, many of who are opening brick and mortar shops, which is great to hear! Where and how can retailers buy your products? Retailers who are interested in stocking our range of products can send an email to me at ruth@themakearcade.co.uk and I can send over an official trade price list. What’s coming up for The Make Arcade for the rest of this year? We will be starting our Christmas craft kit plans next month, which will be available for trade in August. Our wholesale website will be coming soon too! The Make Arcade themakearcade.co.uk craft focus 65 company profile