Craft Focus - October/November (Issue 75)

14 C ountdown to Spring Fair begins The countdown to next year’s Spring fair has already begun, with the launch of the show’s theme for 2020. Reflecting on the retail industry’s constant evolution, Hello New! will represent freshness and innovation. “Consumers’ needs and wants are evolving, and the retail industry is changing with them,” explains Julie Driscoll, UK regional director. “At Spring Fair, we want to quench the thirst for newness that inspires the sector and ensures its continued success. Hello New! brings this innovation to life.” The 2020 event will feature several changes, including a reshuffle of the show floor to provide two distinct sourcing destinations, Gifts and Home & Living. This follows a successful re-edit of Autumn Fair 2019, which enjoyed a renewed look. “We can’t wait to implement the refreshed feel for 2020,” continues Julie. “However, the re-edit isn’t the only exciting change for next year’s show. We’re keen to keep some of the really bold initiatives we will have under wraps for now, but we’ll be announcing these as we get closer to February.” Keep up with developments at springfair.com UK Hand Knitting launches autumn patterns UK Hand Knitting has launched its latest collection of leaflets, featuring patterns for children’s jumpers, a dress and a cardigan and hat set. Each set of instructions recommends a standard DK weight so knitters can choose their favourite brand of yarn from the organisation’s list of members. The sale of each leaflet will help support the work of UK Hand Knitting, a not-for-profit group that promotes and teaches the craft. Find out more at ukhandknitting.com CHANNEL 4 TO SCREEN NEW CRAFT SHOW Channel 4 is set to screen a new craft-themed programme hosted by Keith Lemon and produced by Studio Ramsay. Consisting of six hour-long shows, The Fantastical Factory of Curious Craft will see creatives from across the UK use their artistic talent to wow the audience with spectacular makes. Keith and co-host Anna Richardson will help the crafters navigate their way through each task. Experts Harriet Vine MBE and Zak Khchai will also be on hand to help choose the contestants’ most impressive creations. “We are hugely excited by this one-of-a-kind format – mischievous, smart and fantastical,” says Lisa Edwards, CCO of Studio Ramsay. “We can’t wait to let some of Britain’s brightest crafters shine. With grand master crafter Keith at the helm, we are delighted to be bringing this magical world to life on Channel 4.” The show’s air date is set to be announced in due course.