Craft Focus - October/November 2020 (Issue 81)

4 FOCUS ON 29 Colour pop Stef Francis talks about setting up her company from scratch. 40 Let it snow Keri Ackling CEO of Snow Windows discusses how the company began, their important charity work and how this year more than ever, you should celebrate Christmas and decorate those windows in style 60 Reinventing the wheel Director of Pottery Products Ltd, Nick Elwin discusses how pottery has boomed since the popular TV programme, The Great Pottery Throwdown and why their wheels are second to none! 63 Family favourites Bostik is celebrating Blu Tack®’s 50 th birthday, Jackie Roberts category manager tells us more about what the company has been working on 70 Calming Calligraphy Business partners Kirsten Burke & Jill Hembling have been running The Modern Calligraphy Co. in for the past 25 years. Jill tells us more… 81 Natural selection Britta Kremke owner of Selected Yarns tells us all about how and when the company started and the range of brands they stock 83 Setting new standards James Hutton, marketing executive at Trotec Laser Ltd tells us all about the company and how they have gained the reputation for being a one-stop supplier for many businesses needing engraving and laser services 70 BUSINESS 84 Festive planning Christmas is the biggest season of the year in retail. As retailers we want to make the most out of the last quarter, which is why it’s vital to plan, plan, plan. Natasha Necati from CraftyArts gives her advice 86 International investment Marianne Olaleye, from the Department for International Trade discusses how going online will increase global opportunities for craft businesses 89 Changing landscape Mike Cherry, FSB national chairman, looks at the changing economic landscape amidst the Covid-19 pandemic 90 Why is photography important? Sara Davis discusses how good photography can have a positive impact on your business SHOWS 23 Shows, news & events Stay up-to-date with what’s happening in your industry 60 96 43