WWW.CRAFTFOCUS.COM OFFICIAL MEDIA PARTNER FOR CRAFT HOBBY + STITCH INTERNATIONAL AND PROUD SPONSOR OF TRENDING NOW SEWING SPECIAL! Trend file! The future’s looking Very Peri PLUS! Craft tools Best of British Spring fabrics Sewing & stitching inspiration The show must go on CHSI Stitches is back Put a spring in your step Spring and Easter crafts
NOW BACK IN STOCK! If you have a retail store and are interested in buying Posca markers please contact us on the email below. contactus@mpuni.eu *We are actively looking to increase our distribution within the bricks and mortar retailer Subject to terms, conditions & availability www.posca.com @posca_uk
3 CONTENTS In this issue... REGULARS 9 Industry news What’s happening within the craft and hobby market 15 Brand spanking new Brand spanking new products 86 Bookstand The latest book releases 89 Tried & tested Craft Focus Editor, Rachel Westall gets crafty with this magical Unicorn Embroidery Hoop from Paraffle FEATURES 49 Best of British These companies proudly fly the flag for the United Kingdom 57 Spring fever Spring and Easter crafts 66 Trend file: Very Peri Pantone of the year 2022 revealed 69 Sewing and stitching Sewing projects customers will love to get working on 79 Tools of the trade Craft tools 83 Feeling fresh Spring fabrics 43 February/March 2022 54 15 66
4 FOCUS ON 28 Pearlywinks Simon Kendall-Stokes Co-Owner of Pearlywinks Craft Supplies talks to Craft Focus about the company’s plans to develop the trade side of their business! 43 Pixelhobby UK Adelphi Eden, Designer at Pixelhobby UK, discusses her world of pixels and the countless creative opportunities these little squares hold 54 ExaClair Lawrence Savage, UK Marketing Manager at ExaClair gives us the lowdown of what to expect from the company in 2022 76 Supples for Candles Ltd Nicky Story, Director at Supplies for Candles Ltd discusses what the company has in store for 2022 BUSINESS 90 Retailer interview Celebrating 30 years of business, Natalie Walker, Owner of And Sew On Fabrics talks to Craft Focus about the pandemic, favourite kits and what’s trending in craft! 92 Intellectual property Dids Macdonald, CEO of Anti Copying in Design (ACID), looks at why brand clearance is critical in trademark protection 95 Business advice FSB’s National Vice-Chair Martin McTague looks at how the UK government must offer support to small businesses in order to help their fight against climate change 98 Spring cleaning your business Sara Davies discusses how spring is a great time to spruce up your business! SHOWS 23 Shows, news & events Stay up-to-date with what’s happening in your industry 31 CHSI Stitches preview Exhibitor and show info for the February 2022 event at the NEC, Birmingham 89 31 xx 15 86
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See PJ Beads fantastic range of beads, cabs and findings, all at amazing prices! Contact: orders@beads.co.uk or call us on: 01704 575461 PJ Beads Ltd, 1st Floor, Mill 7, Mabgate Mills, Leeds. LS9 7DZ Preciosa • Pandora Style • Gemstones • Shell • Freshwater Pearls • Glass • Assorted Media • Jewellery • Accessories • Chains • Findings • Sterling Silver • Thread • Packaging • Tools Compact LED Desk Lamp White N3280 Black N3281 Lightweight & Portable - folds flat • 3 colour temperatures • Touch sensitive buttons NEW www.native-lighting.com To become a stockist, then please get in touch: T 01173 709995 E sales@native-lighting.com
7 EDITOR’S LETTER On the cover Spring is just around the corner and to celebrate the season and Easter period, Décopatch has some amazing new papier mâché shapes to decorate, in addition to a number of fabulously beautiful floral paper designs. One of our favourite new waterproof products is the pack of six ‘broken’ egg shells, which when decorated and filled with plants or sweets would make a perfect table centrepiece. For further information visit: https://exaclairlimited.com Starting the year with a bang Welcome to our first issue of the year! We hope it’s a good one for you and your customers. This edition we’re excited to have our Stitches preview. After the 2021 event was cancelled, we’ve never been so ready for the big show at the NEC. We have plenty of information to whet your appetite before your journey to Birmingham. I also had the opportunity to talk to Suppliers for Candles Director, Nicky Story, about their eco-friendly ranges and plans for the year ahead. Lawrence Savage, UK Marketing Manager at ExaClair also took the opportunity to chat to Craft Focus about their new collections including their dried flower products which are sure to be a huge hit. We also have a focus on spring fabrics, a spotlight on British companies as well and a craft tools section to make sure you’re making light work of your crafting projects. As always, we have our regular features, so put your feet up to read the latest industry news, discover brand new products on the market, and get some expert business advice. Happy new year! Rachel Westall Editor EDITOR Rachel Westall +44 (0)1376 514 000 editor@craftfocus.com PRODUCTION MANAGER Scott Brothwell SALES MANAGER Sarah Mclean +44 (0)1376 538 490 sarahm@craftfocus.com ACCOUNT MANAGER Tracy Voice +44 (0)1376 538 555 tracyv@craftfocus.com GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Sarah Hill, Stephanie Hodder, Vicky O’Connor +44 (0)1376 535 616 artwork@kdmediapublishing.com PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Lorna Butcher WEB DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Stuart Weatherley DIGITAL MARKETING COORDINATOR Katie Laley +44 (0)1376 514 000 KD Media Publishing, Pantile House, Newlands Drive, Witham, Essex CM8 2AP craftfocus.com Craft Focus is solely owned, published and designed by KD Media Publishing. Whilst every effort was made to ensure the information in this magazine was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal responsibility for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility of the standing of advertisers nor by the editorial contributions. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Craft Focus is published six times a year. ISSN 1758-0900 @craftfocus @craftfocusmag @craftfocus MEDIA PUBLISHING Craft Focus is proud to be associated with and supporters of:
Contact us, Quoting CRAFT22, to receive your FREE 2022 Catalogue & Sample Kit. Featuring our delightful range of Small Cross-Stitch Kits, including a selection of NEW Items. Designed & Manufactured in Scotland. info@textileheritage.com 01355 229446 The UK’s leading Vinyl Supplier THE LEADING UK WHOLESALE SUPPLIER OF SELF ADHESIVE VINYL ROLLS AND SIGN MAKING SUPPLIES TO THE SIGN MAKING & VINYL SIGN MAKING INDUSTRIES We stock a full range of adhesive films and reflective vinyl rolls that includes products from Oracal, Avery, Mactac, LG Chem and Ri-Mark. 0115 930 1133 DMTVC.MARCH@BTCONNECT.COM WWW.THEVINYLCORPORATION.CO.UK 51 Awsworth Lane, Cossall, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG16 2SA
9 INDUSTRY NEWS Industry news Latest news from the craf industry Wrendale scoops everywoman award Hannah Dale owner of Wrendale has won the award for the most inspirational woman who has been running a business trading for six to nine years. The 19th annual NatWest everywoman Awards, held December 2021, celebrated the UK’s most inspiring female entrepreneurs, recognising their outstanding achievements during one of the most challenging periods for businesses. Bringing together some of the UK’s most successful business owners, the ceremony featured the stories of many extraordinary women who, against the odds, have brought business concepts to reality, creating jobs, opportunities and global brands. Hannah had a successful city career until the financial crash of 2008 left her facing redundancy. Returning to contemplate her options at the family farm, she revived her hobby of painting animals and country scenes. She initially developed a small range of greetings cards and took to local gift shops to gauge interest. The response was encouraging and persuaded Hannah to expand into giftware and homeware. From a standing start 10 years ago, Hannah has built Wrendale into an international brand turning over £8 million annually and providing jobs for more than 60 employees. Covid threatened to derail the business given its wholesale model, but by supporting her retailers with strong content and digital assets, she helped them to pivot their businesses online and sales rebounded with popular lines including a motivational quote box, journals and notelets. This year’s winners span multiple sectors including food, fashion, drinks, health, beauty, energy, IT and service industries. All are united in one common purpose - to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs and to leave the world a better place than they found it. The 2021 finalists were chosen by a judging panel comprising some of the UK’s top business figures including Chrissie Rucker OBE (The White Company), Helen Pattinson (Montezuma), Rosaleen Blair CBE (Alexander Mann Solutions), Roni Savage (Jomas Associates), Annoushka Ducas MBE (Links of London/Annoushka), Melissa Odabash, Kelly Hoppen CBE and Sam Smith (FinnCap). For further information, visit www.everywoman.com/ewawards New name for Devon Guild of Craftsmen MAKE Southwest is the new name for Devon Guild of Craftsmen, the crafts promotion charity based in Riverside Mill at Bovey Tracey, Devon. This renaming represents a period of exciting change for the charity and reflects its ambitious vision for an inclusive crafts culture throughout south-west England. In addition to this more contemporary and inclusive name will be a major creative exhibition programme; an expanding, dynamic public education programme; rebranding of its visual identity; and plans to improve the building. All this will drive forward the creation of a crafts culture for all. The name – MAKE Southwest – recognises the organisation’s wider remit to promote all that is best in crafts in the region: from Cornwall north to Gloucestershire, and east across into Dorset, including the major urban centres of Plymouth, Bristol and Bath. The charity was established in 1986 by a ‘guild’ of distinguished craft makers who had collaborated in exhibiting and selling their work since 1955. It continues to energetically represent and celebrate the many talented makers from across the south-west area. With the help of Arts Council funding, MAKE Southwest increasingly offers craft education to the public as well, and encourages participation by people of all ages and backgrounds in making craft. A complete reworking of the visual identity of the organisation, its logos and website will complete the transformation. For further information, visit www.crafts.org.uk
10 Jones does Button Jam! Button Jam is a new product from Jones Buttons. It’s a box (that becomes a display itself), which holds 12 glass vases, each one in a different colour mix. A cool presentation that gives the effect of jam jars, but instead is filled with colourful buttons. The Button Jam vase is made of real glass and the cap is iron; the buttons inside are nylon, polyester, acrylic and sometimes there are some natural buttons in coconut or corozo. The gross weight of the box is 3.2kg. There are 12 colours inside the box: white mix, black mix, pink mix, red mix, green mix, blue mix, light blue mix, orange mix, yellow mix, lilac mix, brown mix and beige mix. Made in Italy, the packaging is totally re-usable; and once the buttons are taken out, the vase can be repurposed to contain anything you. Also the outside box becomes the display taking wastage down to zero. This eco-friendly characteristic is a major selling point. For further information call Jones on +44 (0)1159 738 720 or visit www.jones-buttons.com Queen of wrapping joins forces with WTTB The queen of gift wrapping has teamed up with one of the UK’s top digital print platforms to make this festive season extra special. For the past 26 years, Jane Means has worked across the globe, showing companies and individuals how to transform their presents into a magical experience. And now the expert, who has worked for brands including Fortnum and Mason, Dior and Selfridges along with wrapping gifts for everyone from royalty to Victoria Beckham, is sharing her secrets with customers of Where The Trade Buys (WTTB). WTTB has a huge range of bespoke Christmas products, which can help elevate packaging to a new level and add an extra dimension to the ‘unboxing’ experience. And through its partnership with Jane, customers can now get some insider tips on how they can enhance their own products, using WTTB bespoke Christmas paper and some imagination. “Wrapping something properly turns the mundane into something really special,” said Jane. Jane has recorded a number of videos for WTTB which can be viewed at https://bit.ly/3lEdYII and show how to add value to any product. These include putting pleats in wrapping paper to give an extra special finish along with advice on adding items such as branded stickers and postcards to help create customer loyalty and a sense of excitement. Her input showcases the value of using WTTB’s bespoke products, particularly at key times of the year such as Christmas. Gary Peeling, CEO of WTTB, echoed Jane’s words about the importance of the unboxing experience. “Bespoke wrapping paper really helps someone’s brand stay front of mind,” he said. “It enhances the customer experience and makes a product memorable, for a fairly low cost. A personal touch helps build brand loyalty and can take an item – even an inexpensive one – to the next level. We’re delighted to be working with Jane and to showcase her skills which we believe will be absolutely invaluable to our customers.” For further information visit www.wttb.co.uk HarperCollins acquires Pavilion Books Company Following HarperCollins announcement on 29th October, 2021 of its intention to acquire Pavilion Books Company Limited the company can now confirm that the acquisition is now complete. Imprints Collins & Brown, Pavilion, Portico, Robson, National Trust and Pavilion Children’s have now transferred to HarperCollins. The Batsford and Pitkin imprints have been retained by owner and publisher Polly Powell as B.T. Batsford, which remains a stand-alone privately-owned business. Pavilion’s adult non-fiction publishing joins HQ and Mills & Boon as Pavilion, National Trust publishing joins Collins Learning while the children’s list is now part of Farshore. Charlie Redmayne, CEO of HarperCollins UK said: “I’m delighted that the acquisition of Pavilion Books is now complete and would like to thank Polly Powell and everyone who has helped make it happen. Pavilion is a great addition to our portfolio and presents a fantastic opportunity to develop our illustrated publishing. I’m pleased to welcome the Pavilion team to HarperCollins and excited to see the lists grow and develop in their new home.” For further information, visit https://www.pavilionbooks.com
T: 01404 510222 E: sales@pixelhobby.uk www.pixelhobby.uk Pixelhobby UK Pixelhobby UK are the UK distributors for Pixelhobby products –a simple craft that anyone can do! By pulling off the pixelsquares and placing them on a baseplate you can create anything from fridge magnets to stunning pieces of artwork. The best part? Our pixelsquares are sustainably produced from sugar cane to create a bio-plastic that is free from toxic materials and 100% recyclable! If you are interested in becoming a Pixelhobby stockist please contact us. Help us save the planet one pixel at a time! Find our range of Flower Presses and 2500 other products on our website Trade-only website. Apply for an account at: www.peakdaleproducts.co.uk Phone: 01298 78447 Scan me WWW. DA NN E L L S . COM i nfo@danne l l s . com 01992 70031 1 Perfect Product Partnership for Haberdashery & Craft Retailers Dannells manufacture the NeedCraft® range of craft kits that you can use with your fabrics, textiles and papers to make creative products around the home, and also Stick-IT® the most popular range of self-adhesive lampshade materials. @needcraf t _ Lampshades - Table Lamps - Floor Lamps Lanterns - Clocks - Bins STAND B48 Visit us at
12 Announcing the Pantone Colour of the Year 2022 Pantone 17-3938 Very Peri, is a new Pantone colour whose courageous presence encourages personal inventiveness and creativity. Rekindling gratitude for some of the qualities that blue represents complemented by a new perspective that resonates today, Pantone 17-3938 Very Peri places the future ahead in a new light. Pantone 17-3938 Very Peri is a symbol of the global zeitgeist of the moment and the transition we’re going through. As we emerge from an intense period of isolation, our notions and standards are changing, and our physical and digital lives have merged in new ways. Digital design helps us to stretch the limits of reality, opening the door to a dynamic virtual world where we can explore and create new colour possibilities. With trends in gaming, the expanding popularity of the metaverse and rising artistic community in the digital space Very Peri illustrates the fusion of modern life and how colour trends in the digital world are being manifested in the physical world and vice versa. “The Pantone Colour of the Year reflects what is taking place in our global culture, expressing what people are looking for that colour can hope to answer.” commented Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Colour Institute. “Creating a new colour for the first time in the history of our Pantone Colour of the Year educational colour program reflects the global innovation and transformation taking place. As society continues to recognise colour as a critical form of communication, and a way to express and affect ideas and emotions and engage and connect, the complexity of this new red violet infused blue hue highlights the expansive possibilities that lay before us.” Encompassing the qualities of the blues, yet at the same time possessing a violet-red undertone, Very Peri displays a spritely, joyous attitude and dynamic presence that encourages courageous creativity and imaginative expression. Speedball announces new distribution agreement Speedball Art Products Co. has announced a distribution agreement in the UK with the leading Art & Craft distributor, West Design Products. Since 1st January 2022, West Design Products became the new and exclusive distributor for the brand locally, taking over the responsibility of existing Speedball’s customers as well as further developing Speedball’s presence in the UK. “We’re very excited to rely on the West team to further grow our brand and footprint into the British Educational, Fine-Art and Craft markets,” says Dave Valliere, Vice President of Marketing & Business Development at Speedball Art. “We share similar values and are looking forward to building a long-term partnership.” Jo Bray, Managing Director, Sales and Marketing at West Design Products commented: “Speedball’s world-renowned expertise for printmaking products and calligraphy is an ideal extension to our product portfolio and has a strong synergy with our own expertise.” West Design Products will offer: a superior level of customer service; strong marketing support and dedicated account managers; and extended stock and short delivery times. Speedball has a rich history of manufacturing fine art materials since 1899 in NC, USA. The company has been able to grow its product portfolio through innovation and acquisition, becoming a world-renowned brand for screen printing, block printing, akua, calligraphy & illustration and paper. For further information, visit www.westdesignproducts.co.uk
Groves, Eastern Bypass, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3FU, United Kingdom. Freephone 0800 626152 | f. 01844 258 058 | sales@groves-banks.com | www.grovesltd.co.uk | /grovesltd | /grovesltd supplying haberdashery for 270 years More than just needles. Visit our website to see the extensive range of high quality sewing tools and accessories.
Miadolla are an established and experienced manufacturer of quality toy and doll making kits Miadolla Toy and Doll Making Kits OFFICIAL DISTRIBUTORS Miadolla® Cross stitch and Needlecrafts specialists DPD Next Day Delivery Order Online Trusted UK Distributor since 1994 +44 (0)161 464 7313 sales@solocrafts.com www.solocrafts.com
15 BRAND SPANKING NEW Brand spanking new Check out some new and exciting products in the current market PARAFFLE Introducing Paraffle’s newest release: the Orca Embroidery Kit! Stitched in a distinctive paisley style on a vibrant teal background, the kit contains everything a beginner needs: full instructions (with detailed photos!), DMC thread on a thread organiser, 8in embroidery hoop, needle, and stitch guide. The fabric included is organic and ethically produced, and the pattern is pre-printed on adhesive, water-soluble fabric. The Orca was designed as a companion kit to Paraffle’s bestselling Blue Whale design, and is perfect for some bright spring and summer crafting. The RRP is £21.50 +44 (0)7468 535 475 wholesale@paraffle-embroidery.com www.paraffle-embroidery.com HAWTHORN HANDMADE Head to the Himalayas with this stunning new Red Panda Needle Felting Kit from Hawthorn Handmade. Follow the detailed instructions and size and shape guide to make your very own red panda to treasure. The RRP is £21.95. +44 (0)1258 863 873 www.hawthornhandmade.com CYGNET YARNS Seriously Chunky Delights are a fabulous extension to Cygnet’s signature Seriously Chunky range. This colourful yarn comes in a gorgeous range of bright, bold shades with a marl print effect. This true super chunky yarn is easy-care and fun to work with for both knitters and crocheters. It’s a perfect, affordable quick knit yarn for bulky projects, homewares, oversized garments, and accessories. sales@cygnetyarns.com www.cygnetyarns.com HERITAGE CRAFTS Just a Number (GYJN1612) is part of The Golden Years collection by Peter Underhill. The design measures 22cm x 18.5cm and has an RRP £26.20. They’re all stitched on 14ct aida and contain whole stitches only. sales@hcrafts.com www.hcrafts.com
16 THE CRAFTY KIT COMPANY This beautiful Poppies in a Hoop Needle Felting Kit is the latest addition to The Crafty Kit Company’s 2D needle felting collection, and contains everything needed to complete a 2D felted picture − just like ‘painting with wool’! Clear photographic instructions guide crafters through every step of the project, allowing them to create their own stunning scene of bright summer poppies in a cornfield. The RRP is £18.95. +44 (0)1620 860 907 trade@craftykitcompany.co.uk trade.craftykitcompany.co.uk ARTCUTS Be a busy bee and create this delightful wooden Beehive Bunting for your home! Capturing the essence of spring, the craft kit includes a beehive, bees and sunflowers made from Artcuts’ signature birch wood. Designed for all levels of makers, this kit focusses on simple crafting techniques from stamping to inking and creating effective honeycomb patterns in a rich sunflower yellow. With great gifting appeal, this kit is neatly packaged and includes all the crafting components as well as a guided video tutorial. It’s made from sustainable FSC certified Scandinavian birch wood, which is smoothly sanded for quality results. Each one of Artcuts’ craft kits is designed and manufactured from the company’s studio and workshops in the Surrey Hills. The RRP is £19.95. +44 (0)1342 843 843 www.artcutstrade.com SOLOCRAFTS SoloCrafts is delighted to announce its new partnership with Miadolla, who produce stunning doll and toy making kits for every ability. The brand is well known in toy making circles and since 2014 has stood for quality and great design across its range, SoloCrafts now has the pleasure of distributing its products here in the UK enabling easy access to this brand domestically. Miadolla’s range includes simple felt toys for beginners, cute and cuddly soft toys and detailed doll figures with outfits and accessories all included. One of our favourites is Shaun the Elephant, all materials are included to make the figure and his clothes. The kit also includes weighted filling to ensure the doll can stand alone once completed. Miadolla’s packaging is attractive and clearly lists the contents in English among other languages, and uses a simple one to three hearts as a difficulty scale. Retail prices range from £6.99 to £41.99, with an option for every budget. +44 (0)161 464 7313 sales@solocrafts.com www.solocrafts.com EUGENIO GABARRÓ, S.L. Nanbag is a new project for Eugenio Gabarró that specialises in leather accessories. With more than 50 years of experience in artisanal leather work, Eugenio Gabarró presents a new brand the company says will shake up the leather goods sector. Nanbag is the new brand of leather handles that opens up an infinite range of possibilities in the creation of DIY bags. Nanbag leather handles have been specially designed to create fabric bags through the ancient technique of Furoshiki. As Product Manager, Toni Gabarró, explains, “With the combination of fabrics and leather, we wanted to join two materials that represent two traditions and two cultures, creating one-of-a-kind pieces that combine elegance, sophistication and glamour.” +34 938 033 852 www.eugeniogabarro.com
18 BACHMANN EUROPE PLC Headlining its first ever MCC Announcements, Bachmann Europe Plc unveiled a range of ThunderbirdsTM plastic kits produced under its Adventures in Plastic (AiP) brand. Comprising 11 different kits across a number of scales, modellers can construct detailed models of the vehicles from the original Thunderbirds TV series including all five Thunderbird crafts plus Fireflash, The Mole and Lady Penelope’s iconic car – FAB 1. Debuting in the UK in 1965, the programme has subsequently been watched by viewers around the world and even now is aired on Britbox to the delight of adoring fans both new and old. +44 (0)7739 200 153 pauline.hinkley@bachmann-europe.co.uk www.bachmann.co.uk UNI-BALL The new PIN Extra Fine brush is a real game changer when it comes to brush lettering and drawing. It’s both an elegant fine art pen and delicate brush script instrument. It’s made from professional quality filaments as seen in cosmetics rather than a conventional fibre tip and is therefore super fine and the nearest thing to working with a classic small artist brush. Because this innovative new pen works like a brush with the control of a pen, you can use it for drawing, filling and brush script. Just like with other uni-PIN pens, you can work the extra fine brush with watercolour. This is because uni-PIN pigment ink is water resistant, so the pens can be used with watercolour as the ink will not smudge when wet. This beautiful brush pen set is presented in a fully biodegradable plastic-free pack that was manufactured in the UK using vegetable inks and sustainable printing processes. The pack showcases original artwork from Modern Brush Lettering by Becki Clark. +44 (0)1908 328 833 contactus@mpuni.eu www.uniball.co.uk THE CRAFT COTTON COMPANY The Craft Cotton Company has released a beautiful collection of seasonal ranges for 2022, available to pre-order now on the company website. Alongside the traditional favourite Holly and Poinsettia designs, there are fun designs featuring The Grinch, Snoopy and Peter Rabbit and a digitally printed organic quilt collection by Victoria Louise. The ranges are sold as fabric by the metre, fun panels and can also be purchased as fat quarter packs and will deliver in July. +44 (0)1618 322 213 www.visagetextiles.com KNITTING FEVER Eisaku Noro’s ‘World of nature’ introduces three fantastic new products for SS22. Asaginu combines the finest linen from France with traditional Japanese ‘art paper’ from the Mino area of Japan called Washi. French linen is widely known as the ‘king of linen’ for its softness, ability to create a vapor barrier (e.g. hygroscopic), and durability. Uchiwa is a dk weight summer tweed blend of cotton, silk, and viscose which is put up in a beautiful dragon egg ball yielding 547 yards. Last but not least, Yukata is a lace weight blend of half silk blended with wool and nylon, with Noro’s typical selfstriping colourful nature. customerservice@knittingfever.com www.knittingfever.com
Learning Kits Value-packed tools specifically developed to teach beginning modellers and other hobbyists how to use the Terrain and Landscape Systems. Learn to sculpt terrain, cast, colour and install rocks, landscape various scenes, create paved areas, make trees, model water features and other scenic details Resealable packages for easy storage. pauline.hinkley@bachmann.co.uk www.bachmann.co.uk Conta ct you r loca l Cygnet stockist or f i nd on www. cygnetya rns. com 100% Cotton Super soft natural yarn with a subtle twist gives beautiful stitch definition to finished knits & crochets. Available in a spectrum of bright rainbow and summery pastels with 5 new shades in the range.
20 LAVINIA STAMPS Lavinia Stamps is an established British company offering a wide range of distinctive and inspirational art and crafting products. The company is excited to be launching its new January collection of highly detailed polymer stamps to kick start 2022. Lavinia Stamps prides itself on designing everything from start to finish. The images are all hand drawn which give them their one-of-a-kind quality, offering something different every time. +44 (0)1824 710 691 www.laviniastamps.com S&S HOME SUPPLIES LTD. T/A OLFA UK OLFA’s CK-1 and CK-2 Wood Carving Knives follow the form of a traditional Kiridashi knife. Though they were designed for wood crafting, they’re also suitable for cutting through many other materials. The name ‘Kiridashi’ means ‘to carve out’ in Japanese, and they both do just that. The CK-1 is ideal for lighter work, and the CK-2 is for more heavy-duty projects. The CK-1’s lightweight, all-metal construction houses an 18mm wide, 1mm thick blade that is double-sided. When one side has finally lost its edge, it’s easy to take the blade out, flip it around, and put it back in with the fresh, sharp side on display. One CKB-1 blade is the equivalent of using two individual blades, so they’re outstanding value. The CK-2 is made of stainless steel and comes with a 20mm wide, 1.2mm thick blade. Both types of blades are double-honed to give you superior initial sharpness and edge retention. As with all OLFA tools, user safety was highly considered when developing these cutters. The screw-and-nut lock mechanism holds each blade firmly in place, preventing even the slightest unwanted movement. This prevents accidents while also increasing cutting accuracy and blade control. The blades can be retracted and stored away securely when not in use. They can also be attached to a lanyard or hanging loop and are suitable for left- or right-handed use. +44 (0)20 8204 1422 www.olfauk.com DAVID & CHARLES From straightening out your kitchen drawers and maximising closet space to keeping your home clean and tidy, the tips, tricks, and hacks in NIFTYTM: Clean & Organized will take your space to the next level in no time. From the popular BuzzFeed lifestyle destination NIFTYTM, this home organisation guide is perfect for anyone who wants to bring a little order to whatever space they call home. It includes helpful advice on how to clean and organise every room in the house, making life easier, more organised, and less stressful than ever before. With money-saving tips, fun DIYs, and inventive ideas for maximising space, this book is the ultimate cleaning resource. Whether it’s tackling the chaos of the bedroom closet or making the most out of the limited space in your tiny bathroom, this title makes tidying up and staying organised easier than ever. +44 (0)1392 790 650 https://davidandcharles.com
Introducing newWhite Craftfoam! A completely blank canvas for any modeller, sculptor or crafter to work with. Fabricated by Panel Systems Also available in grey and green. Craftfoam is one of the most popular materials with craft enthusiasts – here’s why: • It’s easy to cut and shape, sand, mould and bond • It’s lightweight, but rigid • Available in a range of thicknesses • Arrives boxed in a convenient selection of sizes Suitable for sculpting, model making, crafts, hobbies, floral displays – the possibilities are endless. For more information or to place on order, call 01909 774914 or email: sales@panelsystems.co.uk Buy at our online shop www.craftfoam.co.uk FRESH SPRING CRAFTING FROM PAVILION EASY-TO-MAKE AND BEAUTIFULLY MODERN PAPER FLOWERS A CROCHET BESTSELLER, NOW WITH 15 EXTRA PATTERNS SIMPLE DESIGNS FOR HANDBUILT, STYLISH FURNITURE Pavilion is distributed by: GMC Distribution • Search Press @PavilionBooks @PavilionCraft
23 SHOWS & EVENTS Shows, news & events This season’s most unmissable events Diary dates Toy Fair 25th-27th January, 2022 Olympia, London www.toyfair.co.uk Spring Fair 6th-9th February, 2022 NEC, Birmingham www.springfair.com CHSI Stitches 27th-28th February, 2022 NEC, Birmingham www.chsi.co.uk Crafterama 12th-23rd March, 2022 Alexandra Palace, London www.crafterama.com BCTF 10th-12th April, 2022 Yorkshire Event Centre, Harrogate https://bctf.co.uk/ London Stationery Show 17th-18th May, 2022 London Design Centre, London www.stationeryshowlondon.co.uk Frankfurt consumer goods fairs cancelled In view of the pandemic, the consumer goods fairs Christmasworld, Paperworld, and Creativeworld are cancelled for January 2022 and Ambiente for mid-February 2022. The regionally-oriented trade fair Nordstil from 15th to 17th January 2022 in Hamburg will take place at the present time. The Omicron virus in Europe and Germany currently makes it impossible for Messe Frankfurt, as organiser of the leading international trade fairs Christmasworld, Paperworld, and Creativeworld, as well as Ambiente, to keep their dates. Developments and decisions that are clearly outside the organiser’s sphere of influence have led to a significant deterioration in the general conditions and necessary prerequisites for holding the four fairs. These developments include the classification of Germany as a high-risk area and the associated travel warnings and international and intercontinental travel restrictions in countries such as India, Japan and the United States, as well as the corresponding quarantine obligations. Equally important are the steadily rising infection figures and the accompanying urgent appeal, among others by the Robert Koch Institute and the expert council of the German Federal Government, to continue to reduce contacts to a minimum and to cancel all major events. The majority of exhibiting and visiting companies at Christmasworld, Paperworld, and Creativeworld as well as Ambiente are currently reacting to this overall situation with travel and trade fair attendance bans for reasons of duty of care towards their employees to protect them from health risks. Information on the planning of the Frankfurt consumer goods fairs for 2023 will be announced at the beginning of February 2022. For further information, visit: https://creativeworld.messefrankfurt.com
24 Scotland’s Trade Fair postponed until March Following the introduction of new Scottish restrictions for events, Scotland’s Trade Fair Spring has been postponed until 27th-29th March, 2022. Although this is a huge disappointment for both suppliers and retailers, it will still allow retailers enough time to source new products for the 2022 season. A selection of key exhibitors have been sounded out over the move in dates and all have been supportive of the new plans so the majority of exhibitors are expected to participate as usual. Mark Saunders, Scotland’s Trade Fair Director, said: “Although new restrictions are, at this stage, only in place until 16th January, we have no way of knowing if they’ll end then and the Show was due to take place from 23rd-25th January. As Q1 buying patterns are going to be uncertain we feel a postponement would be helpful to the trade not least in providing a better trading environment but also a much safer one giving buyers confidence to attend.” For further info visit: www.scotlandstradefairs.com Award-winning stitching shows return in spring 2022 Sewing for Pleasure, Fashion & Embroidery and The Scottish Quilting Show will return to major cities across the UK in Spring 2022, following a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic. Running alongside the award-winning Creative Craft Show, these major crafting events will bring supply shopping and workshops back to life. In March and April, these shows celebrate the world of creativity in Glasgow, Birmingham and London bringing the latest supplies, techniques and inspiration to dressmakers, crafters, quilters across the country. ICHF Events’ Head Of Features, Jane Bolsover said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be able to finally bring back our speciality quilting, sewing and fashion shows. Two years has felt a long time, and this spring we’ll have shows packed with ideas for visitors to explore and unleash their creativity. We have a really exciting line-up for the 2022 shows including creative workshops and features to inspire our crafters to try something new.” Dates for your diary are: • The Scottish Quilting Show and The Creative Craft Show, Glasgow, SEC, 3rd-6th March, 2022 • Sewing for Pleasure, Fashion & Embroidery and The Creative Craft Show, Birmingham, NEC, 17th-20th March, 2022 • The Creative Craft Show, London, ExCel 1st-2nd April, 2022 Visitors to Sewing for Pleasure can dive into yarn, sewing and dress making demonstrations and be inspired in practical, hands-on workshops. Those with a passion for sewing, knitting and patchwork can visit the ultimate stitchers’ paradise. Colocated with Fashion & Embroidery, it’s the definitive showcase for anyone passionate about embroidery and textile art. The Scottish Quilting Show is an exciting showcase of patchwork and quilting and brings together a range of exciting exhibitions from leading quilt artists and groups from around the world. Visit for supplies, galleries, competitions, workshops and talks - this is the one-stop patch-worker’s paradise in Scotland. As always, there will be aisles of expert exhibitors where crafters can update their supplies stash with the latest products and be inspired by new and exciting ideas and tips. hose visiting the Glasgow and Birmingham shows can enjoy the additional quilting and sewing exhibitions for the same price. Crafters heading to Glasgow can visit The Scottish Quilting Show and The Creative Craft Show with the same ticket. The Birmingham show tickets will provide access to Sewing for Pleasure, Fashion and Embroidery and The Creative Craft Show. For ticket sales, opening times and safety information about The Creative Craft Show, please visit www.ichfevents.co.uk
The iconic fair for British handmade cra Register as amaker or buyer today at bctf.co.uk
26 London Stationery Show returns in spring London Stationery Show, the UK’s only trade show dedicated to writing and paper products, returns from 17th-18th May, 2022 at the Business Design Centre. Visitors to London Stationery Show return year after year to source products from their favourite suppliers, discover something new for their store and find inspiration to help their business grow. The 2022 show is set to be the best yet, with thousands of products on show at the intimate Business Design Centre in trendy Islington, London. Event Director, Alex Butler says: “We understand how busy stationery industry professionals are, so our main goal at LSS is to provide a productive environment for both brands and buyers to forge connections and create partnerships that will last. Our carefully selected range of exhibitors cover all areas so whether you’re an independent or a department store, luxury or mass market, you’ll find something for you at the show.” More than 150 brands will be showcasing their latest and greatest products at London Stationery Show in May. Big brands already confirmed for the spring event include: Frisk, Avenue Mandarine, Brause, Calligraphe, ClaireFontaine, Decopatch, Falken, G. Lalo, Herbin, Maildor, Rhodia, Rembrandt, Cobra, Van Gogh, Talens Art Creation, Ecoline, Sakura, Faber-Castell, Schneider, Platinum and Midori, Zieler, Caran D’Ache amongst many others. The show also features the ‘Boutique collection’, a space dedicated to independent brands who have something original to offer that will truly set your business apart from your competitors. This curated section of the event is a must for buyers seeking that next ‘it’ product that will have customers queuing round the block. Insight, inspiration & innovation You’ll leave London Stationery Show with more than just exciting new product as the show hosts a fantastic education programme made up of Retail Matters Seminars, the Creative Matters Workshops and 1-2-1 business advice clinics with industry experts. The incredibly popular Creative Matters Workshops offer visitors the chance to get creative with products from the exhibitors. All pre-registered will have the opportunity to book in when sessions are announced in the coming months. Registration for London Stationery Show is now open, so head to: www.stationeryshowlondon.co.uk to download your ticket for fast-track entry. Whether you’re a buyer looking for new brands or a brand looking for buyers, LSS is where stationery professionals meet and write their orders. If you’re interested in exhibiting, contact Chantelle White at: Chantelle.white@oceanmedia.co.uk or telephone +44 (0)207 772 8455.
crafting to net zero. UNITING THE CREATIVE INDUSTRIES. 27 - 28 February 2022 NEC, BIRMINGHAM, UK Register at www.chsi.co.uk A SAFE ENVIRONMENT FOR OUR INDUSTRY TO CONNECT AND PROCURE FOR THE SEASON AHEAD #BuyAtCHSI 1000’s of products available for you to view not online but in person, see and feel the brand new products that you will want to stock! Bringing together experts from outside of the craft industry to share new insight, best practice advice and essential knowledge to craft businesses. BRAND NEW KEYNOTE SPEAKER PROGRAMME Cate Trotter Miya Knights Andrew Davis 7 brand new check designs, Viscount Textiles Rosarium Mega Chunky Yarn, King Cole Green Line – recycled products, Gründl Designer’s Art And Model Making Knife, OLFA UK & IE THE CRAFT REPORT – GOING GREEN An essential trends update and a special report focusing on Going Green – Crafting to Net Zero. Find out the environmental implications for our industry and your business. CRAFT CONFIDENTIAL Exclusive campfire sessions with our keynote speakers interacting to share further insights and experiences and answer questions. SUSTAINABILITY SHOWCASE With businesses like yours needing to shop more sustainably, check out the ultimate display of the very latest green products on the market. ON STAND DEMOS Giving you the opportunity to try products first hand. Worth £845 but free to attendees.
28 A splash of colour Simon Kendall-Stokes Co-Owner of Pearlywinks Craft Supplies talks to Craft Focus about the company’s plans to develop the trade side of the business! Tell us a little bit about the company. Where are you based? When did the company start? Pearlywinks, owned by myself and my sister Donna, was opened as a company in April 2018. We manufacture all of our sprays and pastes ourselves and use a UK-based company to manufacture all of our stamps and stencils. Since July 2018 we’ve been on The Craft Store (formally Hochanda) at least once every month. When we first started, we only had four pearl sprays, three ink sprays and two designer pads. By the time our third birthday came around we had just over 100 and now we have more than 170 different colours across our ranges along with texture pastes in a variety of colours, pearly pastes, over 35 stamp sets, and stencils. On 1st August, 2020 we opened the doors of our very own shop which is based in Radcliffe, a small town in Manchester. In April 2021, we launched our Stamp a Ring, this is massively popular and we sold well over 1,400 in the first few months. December 2021 saw the launch of our Precision Stencil Pro range a brandnew concept that we’re very proud of. Not only are they fun to use but they’re amazing value for money. How has the company evolved? Pearlywinks has grown at a very comfortable rate and our range has grown dramatically in a short period. We started with only seven sprays manufacturing them in our living room and have had to move the business several times as we kept outgrowing the premises. Finally, in July 2021, we found the perfect place for Pearlywinks, not only do we have a shop where we’re able to meet people and show how our products work but there’s plenty of space for storage as well as two rooms to make our products up. What do you specialise in? We’ve always specialised in ink sprays and colour. We have branched out into other areas but inks will always be our passion. Talk us through the current products you’re particularly excited about. Do you have a favourite? I have to say, I love all of our products but for me personally there are two products that excite me and that’s because they’re so much fun and our newest creations. Firstly, the Stamp a Ring, it still amazes me that I’m still finding more and more ways of using it − not to mention the perfect ring I can create using my mini stamps. Secondly, our Precision Stencil Pro range has to be the top spot for me. It was a concept that Donna and I came up with following the launch of the hugely popular Stamp a Ring. Donna and I both love to stencil so we thought of a way of combining the two and we came up with the design of our first Precision Stencil. “We’ve always specialised in ink sprays and colour. We’ve branched out into other areas but inks will always be our passion.”
29 PROFILE Do your products suit all levels of crafters? Pearlywinks products are perfect for crafters of all ages and abilities. We’ve even been into primary schools and held workshops for children. What I will say, is like with all craft items, children need to be supervised closely with our inks so walls don’t end up multicoloured! Donna is always crafting with her granddaughter Scartlett and my children love stamping and stencilling. Craft has boomed over the last year! Have you noticed any new trends? Yes! More and more people are trying new things. Having a shop has been a bonus for us as we get to find out what customers want. Inks are definitely getting more and more popular and stamping is certainly on the rise. How often do you launch new ranges? With us being on The Craft Store we like to bring something new to our customers every month, be that new inks, new stamp sets or stencils. How would you advise a retailer who is interested in stocking your products? Pearlywinks is an up-and-coming company with five-star reviews. Our customer base is ever growing with lots of repeat custom. Our products are great fun to use and we’re always bringing out new products and expanding our range. What sets you apart from your competitors? We’re one of the only if not the only craft company in the UK that designs and manufactures all of our inks and pastes in house. We also always try to use UK-based companies for all of our supplies and make sure that things are always ethically sourced. Do you visit any trade shows? Do you plan to visit any soon? We’ve not been to a trade show to date however it’s something we may look into in the future. How did business cope during the Covid-19 pandemic and what are your plans going forward? During the pandemic, we were lucky enough to still be able to sell through the TV channel which kept us going. When we weren’t posting out orders, we were able to spend more time on social media promoting our products as well as teaching people how to use them. Moving forward, we’d like to develop the trade side of our business. We already have several stockists and would love for this side of the business to grow. What new products can we expect from you in the future? Over the next year we’ll be expanding on our Precision Stencil Pro series as well as developing new inky products. PEARLYWINKS +44 (0)1612 229 690 simon@pearlywinkscraftsupplies.com www.pearlywinks.com
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31 CHSI STITCHES CHSI STITCHES RETURNS HSI Stitches, the UK’s leading trade event for the craft industry, has unveiled its new green logo and a path to net zero theme for the February 2022 show at the NEC, Birmingham The return to physical trade shows has been long awaited, as Event Director Steve Mitchell says: “This length of time without a face-to-face trade event is unprecedented in the craft industry and we know there’s a huge appetite for meeting in person again. This is the show that brings together our industry and it’s been much missed. We’re excited to be providing craft businesses with their first opportunity for personal contact with buyers in two years. There’s a growing demand out there for craft, with much of the new interest driven by the events of the last two years.” Visitors to the show on 27th and 28th February will hear the exclusive results of the 2022 Craft Report – Going Green: Crafting to Net Zero. Providing independent research data on the crafting industry, the 2022 report will give guidance on changes businesses can make to improve their environmental impact and how to source products to reduce carbon emissions. Steve continues: “ICHF Events is playing a leading role within the wider events industry to plan how to reduce the waste and carbon footprint for each show. We know how important sustainability is to everyone and want to support craft businesses to play their part in becoming more sustainable.” Focussing on what the craft industry can do to make a more sustainable future, CHSI Stitches will have a sustainability showcase of the most ethical products at the event which will be on display at the entrance providing inspiration to visitors. ICHF Events, organisers of CHSI Stitches, have confirmed a line-up of leading retail experts and features to support creative industry businesses. Keynote speakers include Cate Trotter, one of the world’s top retail experts; Andrew Davis, business development, communication and marketing expert and Miya Knights, ranked one of the top retail technology influencers. Within the brand-new two-day format, speakers will also provide essential insight through new campfire sessions giving the opportunity for visitors to ask questions and share their own experiences. CHSI Stitches 2022 takes place from 27th-28th February at the NEC, Birmingham, UK. For more information visit www.chsi.co.uk To discuss exhibiting options contact Steve Mitchell on +44 (0)1425 460 811 or email stevem@ichf.co.uk Twitter @CHSIstitches Instagram @CHSIstitches LinkedIn CHSI Stitches * Details correct of at time of going to press.
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