Craft Focus - Feb/Mar (Issue 71)

craft focus 15 brand spanking new brand spanking new New craft products for February and March Sew simple Crafting superstar Debbie Shore shares more stitching know-how in her latest collaboration with Search Press. Sewing Room Secrets: Machine Sewing includes plenty of expert tips and helpful guidance, starting with a look at tools and materials. Debbie covers important techniques such as inserting zips and piping, using shirring elastic, motion-free embroidery and appliqué. There’s a focus on craft and home décor projects, as well as dressmaking and quilting advice for readers looking to broaden their skills. The book also features 10 eye-catching makes including a pincushion, pillow cover, tablet case, drawstring bag and sewing machine mat. The retail price is £9.99. +44 (0)1892 510 850 searchpress.com Fairy dust Measuring 83mm x 55mm, Winifred is one of Lavinia Stamps’ newest designs. The whimsical fairy image is clean, clear, easy to use and is manufactured from high-quality resin, perfect for mounting on an acrylic stamping block. It’s priced at £7. +44 (0)1824 710 691 laviniastamps.com Fingers crossed Buttonbag has reported an increase in parents asking for pre-school craft activities, but with many children’s projects requiring high levels of dexterity, this can be a difficult niche to fill. To help, the company has produced a selection of kits for the very youngest crafters including Rainbow Friends, which does not include any sewing or cutting. The beautifully packaged kit uses simple and ingenious techniques to make bendy dolls from large wooden beads, chenille stems and pre-cut felt shapes. Bright colours and clear instructions are a key sales tool, and the kits are popular with both girls and boys. Sewing, jewellery and finger knitting sets are also available, with unit prices ranging from £4 to £8.80. +44 (0)208 525 1640 buttonbag.co.uk On edge Crafter’s Companion has added new Stamp and Edge’able word die sets to its Gemini range. The designs launched in January and can be used to create stylish, contemporary cards for all occasions. Each pack includes one 4in word die and two sentiment stamps, allowing the user to experiment with text and placement. The versatile products have been designed to work with five card base sizes and can be placed in different positions to create a host of stunning effects. +44 (0)1388 663 251 crafterscompanion.co.uk