From March 20th to 22nd, 2026, h+h cologne will open its doors and once again set new standards as the leading trade fair for the textile handicraft industry. With an almost sold-out exhibition center, a community-driven professional program, and creative offerings, the leading trade fair is an indispensable event for the industry. In addition to internationally established brands, numerous newcomers, smaller exhibitors, and specialised service providers shape the picture—a mix that offers the industry a multifaceted environment for ordering, exchange, and development.
Posted: 3 February 2026
A product recall statement from Hobbycraft below has been announced. They say, "Product safety is of the utmost importance to Hobbycraft. Following independent testing of a children's sand product previously sold by Hobbycraft, traces of asbestos have been identified in a limited number of samples. The product was removed from sale immediately after concerns were raised, and there is no evidence of any injury or harm to customers. In co-ordination with Trading Standards and the Office for Product Safety & Standards, we are voluntarily recalling the Giant Box of Craft with immediate effect. This recall is being undertaken as a precaution, in line with regulatory guidance and our own commitment to product safety.
Posted: 29 January 2026
UK Hand Knitting is thrilled to announce its very first Crochet and Knit Along — launching 7th April 2026! The team have joined forces with two phenomenal designers, Claire Montgomerie and Jeanette Sloan, who have each created an exclusive floral-themed project to celebrate the beauty of the seasons. Get ready to crochet, knit, connect, and celebrate the joy of making. This is one creative adventure you won't want to miss!
Posted: 8 January 2026
Koelnmesse, organiser of the globally acclaimed h+h cologne and h+h americas, is excited to announce the launch of the h+h americas Fall Edition. The new event will debut in Houston, Texas – a city that has long served as a valued hub for the craft industry. For decades, Houston has played host to autumnal gatherings of the craft world. With this new edition, Koelnmesse aims to honour that legacy, carry its spirit forward and build a modern, energising, business-driven event that reflects both the community's heritage and its future direction.
Posted: 22 December 2025
The Association for Cultural Enterprises is delighted to announce the winner of its annual Seeds of Change £10,000 prize fund supporting and encouraging sustainable initiatives within the cultural sector. The 2025 prize fund has been awarded to The Art House, Wakefield for its creative initiative, From Earth to Cloth. This truly sustainable project works with the local gardening community, creatives and The Art House's own urban orchard space to create a unique range of naturally dyed, handcrafted homeware items for retail and wholesale.
Posted: 25 September 2025
The Giftware Association is delighted to announce that Gemma Sault will be joining as managing director at the beginning of September. With a strong background in the giftware and retail sectors, Gemma brings a wealth of experience and fresh energy to the Giftware Association as it continues to support and champion the UK's vibrant home, stationery, craft, jewellery and gift industry.
Posted: 5 August 2025
SewnNotThrown is a one woman fabric recycling fashion brand run by Crawley based Meg Davis. After being inspired by TV's popular The Great British Sewing Bee, Meg, aged 32, started making garments using preloved and unwanted fabrics in 2020 to bring together comfort and sustainability. Meg endlessly scours charity shops to find exciting materials and also offers custom-made items for customers.
Posted: 29 July 2025
WOVEN 2025 has come to a close after a month of community-driven textile events. This year's festival, which took place throughout June, saw more than 120 events from community organisations, venues, local artists, schools and the textile industry, collaboratively coming together to celebrate the district's rich textile history and contemporary scene. The creative event was enjoyed by more than 12,000 visitors.
Posted: 15 July 2025
A significant leadership change is underway at the globally active family-owned business Schwan-STABILO.
With operations spanning Writing Instruments, Cosmetics, and Outdoor, and revenues of approximately 800 million, the Group employs more than 5,200 people in 38 locations worldwide. After nearly three decades in various leadership roles, Sebastian Schwanhäußer will step down from his operational responsibilities at the end of the current fiscal year and assumed the position of Chairman of the Advisory Board on July 1, 2025.
As of October 1, 2025, Michele Molon will take over as Group CEO of Schwan-STABILO. During the transition period, CFO Anke Buttler will lead the Group's operations.
Posted: 4 July 2025
The popular, coastal Giving & Living trade show will now take place from Sunday 18th to Tuesday 20th January 2026, in its usual venue, Westpoint in Exeter, just one mile off the M5, in the heart of the beautiful South West. The later dates mean that the show no longer clashes with Top Drawer Spring, or Harrogate Christmas Fair. Great news!
Posted: 10 June 2025