Craft Focus - Jun/Jul (Issue 73)

21 BRAND SPANKING NEW SOLOCRAFTS Produced by Luca-S, this aptly titled counted cross stitch design is part of a new range. I Want to Play features own-brand stranded cottons and is one of four wildcat images available. The design measures 20cm x 30cm and is stitched on Zweigart 16 count white aida, with a retail price of £21.99. All kits come with a needle, instructions and a large- print chart. +44 (0)161 464 7313 solocrafts.com THE CRAFT COTTON COMPANY Perfect for Christmas 2019, Stuart Hillard’s latest collaboration with The Craft Cotton Company includes fun fabric designs and kits based on The Nutcracker. The company’s website also features hundreds of free-to-use projects and ideas. +44 (0)161 832 2213 craftcotton.com PAVILION BOOKS Offering a contemporary twist on a traditional craft, The Art of Pressed Flowers and Leaves is packed with exciting ideas and practical information. Ground-breaking flower artist Jennie Ashmore breathes new life into age-old techniques, guiding readers through every step of the process. There are tips for incorporating watercolour, gouache and other materials, together with a visual plant directory. Published by Batsford, the title retails at £16.99. +44 (0)870 787 1722 pavilionbooks.com HOOOKED Hoooked has announced the launch of two new yarns for 2019. Somen is a light and airy blend of recycled cotton and durable linen, resulting in a strong yet soft thread that is ideal for creating garments for all temperatures. The second, Eucalyps, is a soft, silky and all-natural yarn made from eucalyptus sourced from sustainably managed European forests. Its luxurious feel, subtle sheen and high absorbency makes it a great choice for baby knits. +31 (0)70 3351 886 hoookedyarn.com  VLIESELINE New from Vlieseline, Stretchfix is an elastic heat-activated adhesive web on transfer paper. The product is available on a 5m x 30cm roll, making it ideal for appliqué and joining together fabrics whilst still maintaining elasticity. There’s also a pre-packed tape designed for soft hem construction in stretch fabrics. vlieseline.com