craftseller_2014-01

Cute Scottie dogs in tartan hats

SEW ITCROCHET IT

HOW REJECTION FROM DRAGONS’ DEN BOOSTED CRAFTER KATE SMITH’S BUSINESS...

“TV LAUNCHED MY CRAFTY CAREER!”Real life

Ideas for the new year!

What a foxy fella!

MEET OUR FELT & FABRIC

PLAYBOY

UPCYCLED SHEET MUSIC CLOCK STYLISH KNITTED CLUTCH BAG PRETTY CLUSTER JEWELLERY

Soft & snuggly baby sleeping bag

Salted caramel brownies

BAKE IT

WIN!OVER £1250

WORTH OF PRIZES*

2014’sbest-selling craft trends

* COMPETITION UK ONLY

86BEST-SELLERS

FOR EASY PROFIT

handmade

START MAKING

& SELLINGIN 2014

12 STEPS TO SUCCESS

HOW TO

EXCLUSIVE

WorldMags.netWorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

http://worldmags.net/


PAGE FLAG

3 Craftseller Craftseller 3

If your bank balance post-Christmas is looking a

little like your wilting tree – scant and severely

worse for wear – now is the time to kick-start your

craft-selling. We have an issue packed with ideas for the

new year ahead to boost your finances and keep those

rubbish January blues at bay...

This month, we have gorgeous, New Year crafty ideas

to tuck into including a set of party photobooth paper

makes over on page 27, adorable crochet Scottie dogs

complete with tartan accessories (p84), stylish knitted clutch bag (p74)

and an upcycled sheet music clock (p72), great for welcoming in New

Year. And of course, we have our fabulous cover star – the post-party (and

slightly hungover) felt fox! Full of character, this foxy fella is sure to be a

huge hit with the quirky-loving shopper.

Feature-wise, check out our guide to 2014’s hottest craft trends on page

80 and over on page 38, we have a 12-month craft-selling business plan to

help you maximise your sales this year. And finally, we’re giving you TWO

FREE gifts this issue – a handy pack of 20 sewing needles plus a pretty pink

notebook, perfect for jotting down all those crafty ideas!

Happy 2014 crafting to you all!

Welcome

COVER

Meet our post-party,

felt and fabric fox!

How very suave…

16

Sheet music makes

are fab sellers and

easy to personalise

72

ZEENA MOOLLA – EDITOR

Bake our

delicious

Peek-a-boo

Battenberg

Knit this

gorgeous,

deep red

clutch bag

44 74Cute Scottie dogs

with tartan touches?

Happy Hogmanay!

30


WorldMags.net



PAGE FLAG

4 Craftseller

ContentsJanuary 2014

Fantastic Mr Fox

Bring a sense of fun to your stall

with this charming felt character

30-minute make

Quick and easy photobooth props for

some New Year’s Eve sparkle

Love heart brooch

This cute, cross stitch design is

perfect for early Valentine sales

Tweed twist

Appeal to winter shoppers with

these cosy wrist-warmers

Scrub-a-dub-dub

Make these simple, scented soap

letters to sell as birthday presents

16

27

28

30

34 62

Chequerboard cake

Amaze and astound buyers with a

sweet surprise inside this bake

Parmesan and rosemary biscuits

The perfect party nibble that’ll leave

guests and shoppers wanting more


Sell the latest baking trend on your

stall with our savoury-sweet treats

Party season

Luxe-look papers plus two fab card

projects to try them out on

Mummy makes

Warm shoppers’ hearts with this

sweet baby’s sleeping bag

44

46

47

50

From junk to funk

Make money with this unique

upcycled sheet music project

Bags of style

Buyers will love the vintage charm

of this knitted clutch bag

Perfect pooches

These cute amigurumi Scotties will

be snapped-up by shoppers

Make a crafty tenner

Stitch this sweet little mouse

pincushion to make a mice profit!

More ways than one

These cluster jewellery designs are

super-stylish yet easy to do

72

74

84

92

50

72

74

62 22

Look at this

month’s gorgeous

free papers!

Projects

84

94

OVER £1250

OF PRIZES TO WIN!

PAGE 68


WorldMags.net



Craftseller 5

16

Making news

Get the lowdown on the latest

crafty news and views

Dear Craftseller

Your chance to share all your

crafting and selling success stories

Pin it!

Escape to the country with our

mood board of wintry tartan prints

Stash it!

Add colour to your makes with silver

and purple embellishments

Real life: The Makery in Bath

How Kate Smith’s Dragons’ Den

appearance helped her business

8

10

12

15

22 79

My 2014 monthly craft plan

Use our handy guide to help you

prepare for the year ahead

Charity bakes

Bring out your inner baker and raise

cash for three great causes

Fab freebies

Enter now and you could get your

hands on some brilliant prizes

Diary of a craft-selling mum

Erica juggles new trade customers,

commissions and baby nap times!

The new craft-selling trends

The experts share their predictions

on what will sell well in 2014

38

48

68

70

Ask us!

Let our experts solve your craft-

selling queries with the best advice

My craft shop

Find out how these three successful

sellers make cash from their craft

Crafty courses

Choose from a range of inspiring

courses to expand your craft skills

Online loves

Check out our favourite makes

selling well on the web this month

89

98

100

106

Features

BE AN INSIDERWe want to know what you think. After all, the more

we know about you the better placed we are to bring

you the best magazine possible. So we would like to

invite you to join our online reader panel ‘Insiders’.

Interested? Log on to www.immediateinsiders.com/

register to fill out the short registration survey and

we’ll be in touch from time-to-time to ask for your

opinions on the magazine

and other relevant issues.

We look forward to hearing

from you soon.

Turn to page 102 for those

all-important templates

40

Subscribe to the digital editionTurn to page 40 for your special offer!


WorldMags.net



DESIGNERS

6 Craftseller

ContributorsMeet three Craftseller designers who have

created projects just for you…

Kirsty

Pedlingham

Kirsty created the letter moulds for the

soap-making project on page 34

Kirsty is part of the team involved

with soap mould, packaging, kit and

advertising design for The Soap Kitchen.

You can find moulds and all of your

soap making ingredients you need at

thesoapkitchen.co.uk.

Kate Smith

Read about Kate’s TV experience on p22

and try her cute pincushion on p92

Kate just wants to get everyone crafting

which is why she set up The Makery

Emporium and craft hub – it’s also why

she wrote Makery, filled with gorgeous

projects. So make sure you read her

inspiring story on page 22 then try out

her pincushion to earn an easy £10.

Susanne Frank

Turn to page 74 to try Susanne’s gorgeous

clutch bag, complete with pretty bow!

Susanne loves to create unique

accessories such as scarves and iPod

cases using top quality cashmere,

cotton and silk yarns. Susanne enjoyed

designing the cute knitted clutch this

issue - take a look at her Etsy shop,

HandwerkDesign, for more of her work.

Editor Zeena MoollaEditorial Assistant Beth CollinsArt Editor Lisa JonesPublisher Alison WorthingtonPublishing Director Cath PotterManaging Director Andy MarshallAdvertisement Director Caroline HerbertSenior Advertising Manager Jane HendyAdvertising Designer Catherine HowlettProduction Director Sarah PowellProduction Managers Rose Griffiths and Louisa MolterMarketing Director Jacky Perales-MorrisDirect Marketing Manager Penny ClappMarketing Executive Lucy OsmondReprographics Tony Hunt, Chris SutchPhotography Louise Broom, Ally Stuart, Steve SayersDistribution FrontlinePrinted in the UK by William Gibbons

A special thank you to contributors and designers Annie Bellamy, Jane Tooze, Emma Read, Claire Watkins, Wendy Massey, Vicky Craxton, Sarah Heys, Jessica Sharp, Liz Ward, Marie Parry, Dorothy Wood, Susanne Frank, Kate Smith, Kirsty Pedlingham, Karen Dunn, Sarah Chadwick, Steve Wright, Holly Johnson, Verity Gough, Helen Burge, Jo Benner, Anne MacGregor

Subscriptions and customer enquiries

To place a subscription or order any of our wonderful

sewing, knitting or craft magazines, please call the

subscriptions hotline on 0844 844 0388. It’s open

weekdays 8am-8pm and Saturday 9am-1pm.

Join us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter

Become a fan of Craftseller on Facebook or follow

@craftsellermag on Twitter and you can take part in

competitions, share news, tips and more.

Copyright guidelines for projects

We have requested specific permission from authors, book

publishers and designers so that you can recreate and sell

the projects from this issue. Please credit the designer where

appropriate and when it has been requested. Craftseller is for

crafting enthusiasts who want to make beautiful, handmade

items to sell. You can individually make as many as you

wish to sell either for yourself, your local event, summer

fete or to raise money for charity. You cannot go into mass

production, which means you cannot manufacture in large

quantities, especially by machine. Please respect one

another’s copyright.

Immediate Media Company Limited is working to ensure

that all of its paper is sourced from well-managed forests.

Immediate Media Company Limited is dedicated to producing the very best consumer specialist interest magazines, edited and designed to inform our readers, enhance their lives and give them the best value for money possible. Please visit www.immediatemedia.co.uk for details of our other publications. We take great care to ensure all elements of Craftseller are accurate. However, we accept no liability for any misprints or mistakes that appear in this magazine. All prices quoted are correct at the time of going to print. ©Immediate Media Company Limited.

Craftseller is published by:

This magazine can be recycled, for

use in newspapers and packaging.

Please remove any gifts, samples

or wrapping and dispose of it at

your local collection point.

Immediate Media Company Limited, 9th Floor, Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN. Tel: 0117 927 9009 Fax: 0117 934 9008

A SPECIAL MENTION TO


WorldMags.net



Find out how to put this month’s free needle

collection to good use in your projects

Your free gift!

6If you’re working

on hat making,

pleating or appliqué

projects, use a long

needle with a round eye

7A big, long needle

with a long eye is

very useful when you’re

repairing and darning

items of clothing

8 A thick needle with

a sharp triangular

end is ideal when you’re

sewing tougher fabrics

such as leather

4 Large, sharp needles

are ideal for looser

weaves and smaller

sharp needles are better

for tighter weaves

3 Use a thin needle

with a small eye for

threading and stringing

beads for jewellery

or embellishments

2 A short needle

with a small round

eye enables quick and

even stitching which is

useful for quilting

1 A needle with a large

eye and a blunt end

is the perfect tool for

tapestry and cross stitch

embroidery projects

5 A curved needle

makes tricky seams

on items such as

lampshades easier to

sew together

COVER GIFT

Craftseller 7


WorldMags.net



CRAFTY UPDATE

8 Craftseller

1 His work ethic has got him where he is today. He

works harder than most, but is also fun-loving and

approachable – a combination that has propelled him from

owning one Nottinghmam-based boutique in 1970, to 17 UK

shops and a global empire today.

2He takes classic designs and gives them his own unique

twist. Describing his style as ‘Saville Row meets Mr

Bean’ during his recent appearance on BBC2’s The Culture

Show, everything he creates incorporates a playful surprise.

3Paul, who became Sir Paul in 2000, uses everyday

images as inspiration for his work. He photographs what

he sees on his travels and incorporates these pictures into his

fashion designs. One of his scarves started life as a stream of

lights seen from a moving taxi in Japan, for example!

3 things we can learn from designer

Paul Smith

Crochet is cool!

We love this

retro design at

naturalmat.co.uk

Visit London’s Design Museum before 9th

March to see Paul’s exhibition – Hello, My

Name Is Paul Smith. His book of the same

name is also on sale now, priced at £40 and

available from designmuseumshop.com.

Kick-start your year!

If you’ve got big ideas but not a big bank balance, it’s worth checking out Kickstarter, where you can raise funds to launch your creative project. The platform recently enabled Folksy to rally £6,500 to produce their book Revealing Craft, which is a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of 13 Folksy makers. Find out more at kickstarter.com.

BESPOKE REVIVAL

Want to increase your commission

work? Then sign up to be one of the

makers at fab new site bespokee.co.uk.

Making news

SUPERSITES Our pick of

the best from the

world of online

this month…

misstillysfabric

emporium.co.uk

Indulge your debit

card in the likes of

Dashwood Studios,

Robert Kaufman and

Riley Blake.

campaignforwool.org

All the latest news on

this fantastic project,

championed by HRH

The Prince of Wales.

abeautifulmess.com

The prettiest inspiration

on everything from

bakes to makes.

PH

OTO

: B

BC

Welcome to your one-stop shop for all the latest

craft trends, dates and celebs…

PH

OTO

: Fo

lksy


WorldMags.net



CRAFTY UPDATE

Craftseller 9

PIECE OF CAKECAKE DESIGNER Beth Mottershead

of Cakes by Beth has a real flare

for colour and detail, which is evident

in her impressively-intricate bakes. She was

recently announced as the winner of the food

and drink category in the Balvenie Masters

of Craft Awards 2013, after wowing the

judges with her Black Fantasy Forest Birdcage

wedding cake (right). Nice one, Beth!

CITRINE BRIGHTSIF EVER THERE’S A TIME we

want a bit of colour in our lives

it’s January! So it goes without

saying that we’re loving the

trend for bright pops of yellow on

home and fashion accessories for

spring 2014. Why not try adding

yellow buttons or pockets to a

navy cardi, or make some chic

citrine earrings and accessories?

TOP TREND ✓ TOP TREND ✓ TOP TREND ✓ TOP TREND ✓ TOP TREND ✓ TOP TREND

CRAFTY EVENTS Our pick of the

best crafty events

around this

month...

Quilters Exhibition and

Fabrics January Sale

Farnham Maltings

12 January

Free SOS clinic

Loop yarn shop

Islington, London

12 January

CRAFT London

Earls Court

12-14 January

Past & Present

Antique, Vintage &

Craft Fair

Christchurch Hall,

Wanstead

18 January

The Creative

Crafts Show

Sandown Park, Esher,

Surrey

23rd-25th January

Block Party:

contemporary craft

inspired by the art of

the tailor

The Gallery, Arts

University, Poole

Until 24 Jan 2014

Bright ‘n’ Crafty

St Nicholas’ Church,

Dyke Road, Brighton

25 January

Creative Stitches and

Hobby craft

EventCity,

Manchester

6-8 February

Sew-long 2013!

Happy New Year craft-sellers! With

all the festive excitement and last-

minute orders, we’re betting that

some of you will have missed the Great British

Sewing Bee Christmas special, but don’t panic!

The six-part series 2 is due to hit our screens

in April, so watch this space for the latest

gossip. Here’s to a sew-inspiring 2014!

Earr

ings:

cold

lilie

s.co

m; ri

bbon: oliv

erb

onas

.com

; pla

te: m

arks

and

spence

r.com

; ju

mper:

whitest

uff

.com

; m

odel im

age: eas

t.co

.uk

PH

OTO

: B

BC

See more of

Beth’s designs at

cakesbybeth.co.uk!TalentSPOT


WorldMags.net



LETTERS

CRAFTY BLOG FUTUREGIRL.COM

This is a really useful

blog for knitters and

crocheters, although

Alice Merlino dabbles

with embroidery amd

hand or machine

sewing – so there’s

something for

everyone! I love the

way Alice uses colour,

there’s nothing like a

beautiful skein of yarn!

ROSIE WINTERS,

DUBLIN

Send us your latest crafting and selling stories – each issue,

the star letter wins a fantastic Abakhan prize!

It struck me…

I’VE BEEN BUYING YOUR magazine since it

started and I find the articles a great inspiration.

I’m more of a stitcher than a papercrafter and

was at a loss to think of somthing to do with the

lovely free papers you include in each issue – I

don’t like letting anything go to waste. However,

inspiration came to me and I made these lovely

paper wreaths that have been selling like hot cakes

to friends and family. Hope you like them.

JOANNE CAMPBELL, DAISYMAKES.ME.UK

Ed: This is such a fun and clever idea, Joanne.

We love the way the hanger is included!

Joanne has been putting our free papers to good use!

We love this loopy

paper wreath – it’d be

perfect for Christmas!

The kids at Elgol

Primary have been

busy getting creative

Dear Craftseller

Spook-tacular class

I WAS REALLY IMPRESSED by your Halloween

supplement – here is a photo showing the haunted

houses made by the pupils at Elgol Primary

School, which is a very small, rural school on the

Isle of Skye. There are only 18 pupils in the whole

school. We are very proud of their efforts!

LORNA NICE, ELGOL PRIMARY

Ed: Halloween might be over but, Elgol Primary

School, you’ve definitely spooked the Craftseller

team with your creepy creations! Well done.

10 Craftseller

Sew inspired

I HAVE RECENTLY SUBSCRIBED to your

fab magazine. The first issue I received had

so many things I wanted to try, but I settled

on making the advent calendar. I thought it

would be good to get organised and might

inspire me to do more sewing. Well I was

right, my head is brimming with ideas for

Christmas craft fairs! There is no way I am

selling the advent calendar, I love it too

much. Love the mag – it’s my ‘me’ time.

EMMA HORABIN, LANCASHIRE.

Ed: Your bunting looks brilliant, thanks for

sending us a photo, Emma.

Emma made the

bunting featured in

our Christmas issue


WorldMags.net



LETTERS

Craftseller 11

CRAFTY TALKHere are some

of our favourite

posts and tweets

this month…

Search for Craftseller on facebook.com

@craftsellermag yourletters@ craft-seller.com

Dear Craftseller, 9th Floor, Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN

Reading @CraftsellerMag

whilst eating homemade

soup. Perfect lunch time :) @CRAFT_ME_PRETTY

Had a fab day at

#christmascrafts! Even

got my subscription for

@CraftsellerMag! @PRINCESSLUCE14

@CraftsellerMag

packing gifts sold on my

website milliesmarket.

co.uk, #cwtch @MILLIESMARKET

Bunnies and

reindeers, inspired by

@CraftsellerMag, were

a big hit on our stall! @LIZZYANDKIMMY

Thank you to

@CraftsellerMag for the

lovely feature on me in

the Nov issue! @RACHTDESIGN

SELLING INSPIRATIONMY DAUGHTER HAS JUST bought me

your wonderful magazine – she is trying to

encourage me to sell my work, as I haven’t

had much luck yet selling any. I usually just

give my creations away but after reading your

magazine I’m inspired to keep on trying.

AGNES AT ACY CREATIONS, ON FACEBOOK

Ed: Your makes are very cute so it’s great to

hear that you’re persevering with the help of

Craftseller. Let us know how you get on.

Fantastic Mr Fox

I LOVE CRAFTSELLER MAGAZINE and look

forward to the day it arrives every month, so decided

to share some of my work with you. I am mostly a

mosaicer but love lots of different crafts. With the

trend for forest creatures continuing into winter,

here is my fox. What do you think?

JANET DANIELS, JUBES ORIGINALS, ON FOLKSY

Ed: We love your fox Janet, and with the woodland

trend continuing he’ll be popular with shoppers, too!

Turn to p79 to see what other trends are big for 2014…

What a hoot!

WORKING AWAY FROM HOME, I often while away

the hours by taking my latest craft project. On

a recent trip, I took some yarn with me to make

this owl. I was getting on well with my crochet

when suddenly we needed to board the train. I

continued to crochet but the wool ended! I knew

I’d had plenty with me, and then it dawned on

me – my ball of wool had fallen out and was left

behind on the tarmac. So my owl ended up being

rather brown. The moral of the story - bring a bag

big enough to fit all your supplies!

MRS DEBORAH SNOOK, SNOOKERYCRAFTS.CO.UK

Ed: Thanks for making us chuckle! We think your

owl looks fab despite your missing ball of yarn!

Agnes stitches cute

characters like

Marvin the mouse

Deborah had to adapt

her design after losing

her yarn on the train!

Star LETTER

We love Janet’s

on-trend

mosaic fox

Star letter prize!This month our star letter writer

wins £50 worth of vouchers

to spend on abakhan.co.uk


WorldMags.net



PIN IT

12 Craftseller

PIN IT

Tartan Use super soft plaid and Celtic

character to give your makes a cosy,

country feel this winter

2

4

8

3

1

5

6

7

9

10


WorldMags.net



Craftseller 13

1 Country check throw, £19.95 houseofbath.co.uk

2 Tartan stag hanging heart, £5, mandco.com

3 Red tartan scarf, £4, primark.com 4 Forest friends

candle tin, £1.50, wilko.com 5 Tartan pinafore dress,

£35, ohmylove.co.uk 6 Limited edition tartan checked

flight bag, £35, marksandspencer.com 7 Plaid Derby

lace-up brogue, £55, bankfashion.co.uk 8 Highland wool

baby rollback dining chair, £329, indigofurniture.co.uk

9 Tartan passport holder, £7.50, paperchase.co.uk 10

Grandad Highland wool sofa, £2,990, indigofurniture.

co.uk 11 F&F chiffon and tartan maxi dress, £30,

clothingattesco.com 12 Tartan bedset, from a

selection at matalan.co.uk 13 Primo plaid in

blue orange mustard, £12.80 per metre,

fabricrehab.co.uk 14 Primo plaid in burnt

orange, £12.80 per metre, fabricrehab.co.uk

15 Scottie dog doorstep, £12, mandco.com

16 Tweed dog cushion, £19, mandco.com

17 Tartan cushion, £16, mandco.com

11

17

16

12

15

14

13


WorldMags.net



For more information visit www.brothersewing.co.uk Brothersewinguk

Experience the V5 for yourself at your local Brother dealer.

Space& Performance

The Innov-is V5 has the space to create

impressive quilting and embroidery.

Enjoy the extra large 11 ¼” long arm (285mm) sewing space for those big quilting and sewing projects.

Relax as the precision feed helps you breeze through intricate decorative stitches and effortless free motion.

Enhance your creations with amazing embroidery and embellish with lettering from the many built-in styles.

ScotlandA Coates Sewing Machine Unit Borders TD14 5DH 01890 750349

David Drummond Edinburgh EH12 5HD 0131 5397766

ESC Keith AB55 5HF 01542 887000

Karelia House Ltd Perthshire PH15 2LS 01887 822027

N J Sewing Polmont FK2 0UF 01324 711333

Pembertons Sewing Machines Stirling FK8 1HA 01786 462993

Quilt Creations Inverness IV1 1EP 01463 719369

North East Singer Sewing Centre Whitley Bay NE26 2SY 0191 2525825

Tully’s Sewing Machines Sunderland SR1 3JG 0191 5657995

The Fat Quarters Newcastle upon Tyne NE17 7TN 01207 565728

North WestAffordable Sewing Wirrall CH46 9QA 0151 677 7755

Bamber Sewing Machines Ltd Eccles M30 7HY 0161 707 7786

Hobkirks Sewing Machines Ltd Blackburn BB2 2AJ 01254 693555

Hobkirks Sewing Machines Ltd Bury BL9 0LQ 0161 7644450

Lord’s Sew Knit Centre Accrington BB5 3DE 01254 389171

R&T Machines (Domestic Sales) Blackburn BB1 2AL 01254 52063

Superior Sewing Centre Cumbria CA3 8PW 01228 599880

Temptations Lancaster LA2 7HQ 01524 261868

The Quilted Sheep Ltd Cumbria LA7 7PN 01539 565800

Yorkshire & Humberside

Gillies Fabrics York YO1 8SW 01904 626244

Grimsby Sewing & Knitting Grimsby DN32 9DR 01472 343921

Howdens Sewing Machines Huddersfield HD1 6BL 01484 516700

Sewing Machines and Crafts(Crafts Upstairs)

Keighley BD21 1AD 01535 609466

UK Sewing Machines & Fabrics Durham DL3 7JY 01325 463630

Woodseats Sewing Machines Ltd Sheffield S8 0RY 0114 255 2822

Midlands

Brewers Wolverhampton WV2 3AF 01902 458885

Couling Sewing Machines Lincoln LN5 8AW 01522 521841

Creative Hands 2 Worcester WR1 2LU 01905 24940

DC Nutt Sewing Machines Walsall WS3 3SS 01922 497603

E L Grain Nottingham NG6 8UY 0115 927 1155

F L Nutt Sewing Machines Birmingham B14 7AA 0121 444 3978

GUR Enterprise (UK) Ltd Birmingham B19 3QN 0121 3597440

L & M Nutt Sewing Machines Birmingham B73 5BS 0121 3735497

Leamington Spa Sewing Machines Ltd

Leamington Spa CV32 4RA 019264 27572

Sewing Machine Centre Shrewsbury SY1 1XJ 01743 343902

The Haberdashers Hub Ltd Nuneaton CV11 4AD 02476 384440

East Anglia

Beccles Sewing Machines Beccles NR34 9TB 01502 714234

Bedford Sew & Knit Limited Bedford MK41 7LE 01234 217096

Franklins Group Limited Colchester C02 7DU 01206 563955

Franklins Group Limited Ipswich IP1 3EL 01473 221188

Franklins Group Limited Chelmsford CM2 0LG 01245 346300

Sew Creative Cambridge CB1 1LD 01223 350691

Sew Creative Bury St Edmonds

Bury St Edmonds IP33 1NE 01284 755459

Sew Creative Norwich Norwich NR3 1LE 01603 305888

Sew Northampton Northampton NN1 4DX 01604 637200

Wales

J & B Sewing Machine Co Ltd Newport NP19 4SY 01633 284646

Sewing Machine Direct Wrexham LL12 0PJ 08000 925215

South East Art of Sewing Eastleigh SO50 5LD 02380 650808

Ashford Sewing Centre Ashford TN23 1JH 01233 620948

Brighton Sewing Centre Brighton BN1 1YD 01273 621653

C & A Sewing Machines Ltd Cranleigh GU6 8NE 01483 267777

CCB Sewing Machines Rochester ME1 1HS 01634 841597

Cooper Sewing Machines Ltd

Borehamwood WD6 1FJ 0208 2361520

Dowlings Wickford SS11 8YJ 01268 562022

Fabrications Hackney E8 4PH 0207 2758043

Fareham Sewing Fareham PO16 0EH 01329 234641

GTS Sewing Machines Banbury OX16 9PQ 01295 701384

Lewisham & Deptford S/Mcs London SE8 3NT 0208 692 1077

Maidstone Sewing Centre Maidstone ME14 1ED 01622 670254

Regent Sewing and Knitting Ltd Ilford IG1 2AG 0208 4780669

Rona Sewing Machines Waltham Cross EN8 7BX 01992 640250

Sew Devine Reading RG6 1JQ 0118 926 8664

The Sewing Centre Battersea SW11 3BP 0207 2283022

The Sewing Shop Canterbury CT1 2HX 01227 457723

Theobalds Luton LU1 5AA 01582 720332

Tysons Sewing Machines Ltd Southall UB1 3DA 0208 5741750

Tysons Sewing Machines Ltd Hounslow TW3 1NW 0208 5706790

Woking Sewing & K/M Centre Woking KT15 3NY 01932 352958

South West Caffle Crafts Weston Super Mare BS24 6SE 01934 838327

Direct Sewing Machines Redruth TR15 2DY 01209 216942

Exeter Sewing Machine Company Exeter EX1 2LD 01392 275660

Franklins Group Limited Salisbury SP2 7SU 01722 554466

The Stitch Academy Taunton TA1 1NZ 07547 006618

Bredons Taunton TA1 3NB 01823 272450


WorldMags.net



Inspiring ideas for your crafty makes

Stash it!

Gütermann Cotton Variegated Machine Embroidery Thread Pack�]b�6Yffm ��%("-) �;�hYfaUbb4ghcW_]ghYbei]f]Yg"Wc"i_��8UaUg_�Difd`Y� Velvet Fabric�K]h\�DYUf`�G]`jYf�Df]bh]b[ ��*",) �:UVf]WAUfh�cb�Yhgm"Wca��Difd`Y�Adhesive Stones �%$(dWg� ��%")$ �XcWfUZhg"Wca

<iff]WUbY�6Yffm�?`cbU Cotton Fat Quarter�6ibX`Y ��%' �VUW_gh]hW\"Wc"i_��Difd`Y�Ribbon Roses�k]h\�8]UaUbh� ��%"-- � YUgmÄcf]ghgidd`]Yg"Wc"i_��GdUf_`]b[�Difd`Y�Royal Icing Flowers k]h\�G]`jYf�8fU[YY�7YbhYf ��+"+) �7idWU_YgVmW\f]ghm�cb�Yhgm"Wca

Silver Nugget Pearl Strand ��) �gdc]`hfchhYbVYUXg"Wc"i_��AYhU``]W�9aVfc]XYfm�k]h\�7fmghU`g�cb�Organdie Trim ��+"-- �amZUVf]W\cigY"Wc"i_��;`]hhYf�UbX�HcmgUZY�Difd`Y�Painter’s Touch Brush ��("--�UbX�:fYbW\�@]`UW�Painter’s Touch Spray ��,"-- �fighc`YiagdfUmdU]bh"Wca

G<CDD=B;

Craftseller 15

NOWWIN IT!

ON PAGE 68


WorldMags.net



Fantastic Mr FoxThe charming and sophisticated Mr Fox is sure to become a collector's

item and will bring a sense of fun to your stall! By Vicky Craxton

MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £10.50

FOR £45

FELT IT

16 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



COVER star


WorldMags.net



Your customers are sure to be

enticed by this foxy lothario –

he’s so full of character with

his slightly dishevelled style and suave

expression! He would look perfect as a

decoration at a New Year’s Eve party,

especially displayed in the hallway so he’s

the first thing guests see when they arrive.

This make has a lot of detail and with a

combination of sewing, gluing and needle-

felting, it’s a very satisfying and enjoyable

project. When photographing this fox for your

online shop, display him with exploded party

poppers and a champagne bottle to give your

customers an idea of his size.

How to make the felt fox

INFORMATION

Materials

* Orange/brown felt 60 x 60cm

(24 x 24in)

* White felt 8 x 4cm (3½ x 2in)

* Light grey felt 14 x 7cm (5½ x 2¾in)

* Red and white polka dot cotton

fabric 24 x 10cm (9½ x 4in)

* Black cotton fabric 66 x 50cm

(26 x 20in)

* White cotton fabric 38 x 25cm

(15 x 10in)

* 2g white wool roving

* 1g black wool roving

* 2 x 17mm (¾in) plastic

amber teddy eyes

* 31cm (13in) length of

white 1.5mm elastic cord

* One 9mm (¼in) black

plastic button

* Matching sewing thread

* Polyester toy filling

* Fabric glue

* Foam pad

* Felting needles, sizes 38 and 40

Size: 36cm (14in) height, 18cm (7in)

width including tail, 11cm (4½in)

deep including tail

Rating: Moderate

For the body

1 When hand sewing the felt

shapes, use an overstitch. Sew each pair of

torso shapes together along the long straight

side. Pin the torso shapes together and sew

the shoulders, sides and bottom together,

leaving gaps for the legs and neck. Stuff with

toy filling, as shown above.

2 Sew the inside and outside legs together

leaving the top open. Stuff with toy filling.

Sew the legs onto the torso and finish filling

the legs as you do so. Sew the tail shapes

together and fill with toy stuffing. Sew the

tail onto the back of the torso. Sew each chin

shape onto to each head shape, then sew

the head shapes together but only the front

of the neck, nose and forehead.

3 Sew the eye shapes onto each side of

the head, about 5cm from the bottom of

the neck. Cut a small slit in the middle of

Cutting out the templates

All templates include a 0.5cm (¼in)

seam allowance.

* In orange felt cut four torsos, two inside

legs, two outside legs, two tails, two chins,

two heads, one head back, four ears, four

hands and two eyelids.

* In white felt cut two eyes.

* In white cotton fabric cut one

handkerchief, one shirt collar and two shirts.

* In black cotton fabric cut two bow ties,

two trousers (one with a slit at the top),

two jacket collars, four jacket fronts, four

sleeves, two jacket backs, one of pocket 1

and four of pocket 2.

* In grey felt cut one glass top, one glass

stem and two glass bases.

* In red and white polka dot fabric cut one

party hat and one party hat base.

each eye and push the post of a plastic eye

through each hole. Secure the plastic eyes by

pushing on the back. Sew an eyelid shape

above each plastic eye so it covers the top of

the eye. Lightly stuff the eyelid to make sure

it keeps the shape.

4 Sew the head onto the head back shape,

leaving the bottom of the neck open. Stuff

with toy filling and sew the head onto the

neck of the torso. As you do this, check that

his head is tilted to one side.

5 Cover the top half of two of the ear

shapes with black roving and stab in place.

Sew the plain ear shapes onto the needle

felted ear shapes.

6 Then cover the top edges of each ear

with the black roving and lightly stab in

place. Fold the bottom edge of the ears to

create a crease and sew the ears in place on

the head. Stab a thin layer of white roving on

the front of each ear, as shown above.

7 Cover the chin, neck and the tip of the tail

with white roving and stab in place. Roll up a

small piece of black roving into a ball with a

fluffy end. Stab this until it creates a solid ball

and leave the end fluffy. Place the ball onto

the end of the nose and stab the fluffy end

into the nose to secure it in place.

8 To create the mouth and eyebrows, use

thin strips of the black roving and stab them

in place to make lines.

For the shirt

1 Using a sewing machine, sew the shirt

shapes together, leaving the curved neck side

open. Turn inside out and iron flat.

2 Fold both short sides of the shirt collar

shape about 0.5cm (¼in) in and iron flat.

Fold the collar shape in half along the long

FELT IT

18 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



edge and iron flat. Sew the long edge of

the collar onto the curved neck side of the

shirt so the seams are on the inside. Wrap

the shirt round the torso of the fox and sew

some tiny stitches on the sides and front of

the shirt and also the bottom of the collar to

secure it in place.

3 Sew the two bow tie shapes together,

leaving a gap in the middle on one side. Turn

it inside out, sew up the gap and iron flat.

Wrap the bow tie round the fox’s collar and

secure in place at the front and the back with

a dab of fabric glue.

Jacket

1 Fold the handkerchief shape into a

triangle and a triangle again and sew the

longest side onto one of the front jacket

shapes using an overstitch. Fold the short

sides of pocket 1 about 0.5cm (¼in) in and

iron flat. Then fold the long sides into the

middle so they overlap and iron flat. Using

fabric glue, stick it together and stick it in

place on the jacket front shape so it covers

the bottom of the handkerchief.

2 Sew each pair of the pocket 2 shapes

together using the sewing machine and

leave the top open. Turn inside out and iron

flat. Turn the top edges in, iron flat then sew

in place. Sew the pockets onto both jacket

front shapes but leaving the tops open. Sew

the jacket front shapes with the pockets

onto the plain jacket front shapes with the

wrong sides out. Only sew the curved sides

together. Turn inside out and iron flat. Sew

the neck and the tails of the two jacket back

shapes together. Turn inside out and iron flat.

3 Attach the jacket fronts to the jacket back

shape by sewing the shoulders and sides

together with wrong sides facing out. Turn

inside out and iron neatly.

4 Sew the jacket collar shapes together

leaving a gap in the middle on one side.

Cocktail glass

1 Using an overstitch, sew the long sides

of the stem together and lightly stuff with

toy filling. Sew the stem onto the middle of

one of the base shapes. Sew the other base

shape on the bottom. Sew the straight sides

of the glass top together and sew the pointy

end of the glass top to the other end of the

stem. Sew the stem of the glass to the hand.

Party hat

1 Machine stitch the straight sides of the

hat together with wrong sides out. Sew the

base shape onto the party hat shape with

wrong sides out, leaving a gap. Turn inside

out and stuff with toy filling to make a cone

shape, as shown below. Sew up the gap. Use

a needle with a large eyehole to thread the

elastic through the bottom of the hat from

one side to the other. Tie ends together into

a tight knot and place on the head.

SAFETY FIRST This fox is not intended as

a toy, or for young children. Always ensure

your work is well-stitched and any loose

parts are securely attached. Remember,

if you intend to sell it, even if it is not

sold as a toy, there are strict regulations

to adhere to. Visit craftseller.com/free-

downloads for advice on child safety.

Stab the needle-felted areas again after you've

finished the fox as he tends to get a

bit fluffy!

TOP TIP

Turn inside out and iron flat and sew the gap

closed. Attach the collar to the jacket using a

small amount of fabric glue.

5 Sew the button onto one side of the

jacket front. Pull the jacket onto the fox and

sew a couple of tiny stitches on the back of

the neck, on the hips and both sides of the

chest to secure the jacket in place.

6 Attach a hand shape onto each sleeve

shape by sewing it onto the wrist so it is

facing the wrong way. Make sure one pair of

hand shapes is pointing downwards and the

other is pointing upwards. Pull the hand back

so it is flat. Sew the sleeve shapes together

with wrong sides facing out.

7 Do not sew the hands. Turn the sleeve

inside out and stuff with toy filling. Using an

overstitch, sew the hands and lightly stuff

before closing them up.

8 Sew each arm in position either side of

the jacket so one hand goes in a pocket and

the other points upwards slightly.

Trousers

1 On each trouser shape, fold the bottom

of the legs about 0.7mm (¼in) in and sew in

place. On the back trouser shape, where the

slit is, fold the flaps back to form a V shape

and sew in place.

2 Fold over the top of each trouser shape

about 15mm (½in) in and sew in place. Sew

the trouser shapes together along the long

side and also in between the legs. Sew with

the wrong sides facing out.

3 Turn the trousers right side out and iron

them so there is a long crease on the front

and back of the legs. Pull in place on the fox

so the V-shape is under his tail.

FELT IT

Craftseller 19


WorldMags.net



You’ve made it, now sell it…

1Create a backstory. This cheeky fox

has seen some things, so make up an

exciting life for him on your shop page. 2 Use your stash to save cash! Yarn

scraps or even old fabric scraps

make great, free toy stuffing.

3 Add fun details. Stitch on a scrap of

fabric for the fox's hanky or give him

a bright red bow tie for a pop of colour.

4 Blow your own trumpet! Felting and

sewing all take skill so mention this in

the item's description.

5Strike a pose. Photograph your fox in

a series of party scenarios for a range

of fun product images.

6 Create a fashionable fox. Adapt the

pattern to create a luxe velvet smoking

jacket or smart tartan coat.

7 Avoid needle-felting accidents!

Watch out as you hold and turn your

project as there's a greater chance of

poking through the wool into your finger.

8Vary the accessories. Mr Fox could

be drinking port, wearing a top hat or

swirling a cane. Be creative and have

fun making some mini accessories.

9 Expand your range. Once confident

creating this fox, consider making

other woodland creatures to join

him in his merry-making!

10 Keep sewing neat and tidy. With

lots of stitches on show be sure to

use good quality thread to give

a smart, clean finish.

SELL IT

Follow our hints and tips to maximise profits from your felt fox

NOW SELLING ON...

Etsy: Felt fox ornament by theladybirdtree, £4

Folksy: Fergal Fox by Mrs Fox Handmade, £20

Folksy: Fox brooch by Automation, £10

20 Craftseller


WorldMags.net




WorldMags.net



TV helped launch

my crafty careerKate Smith quit her job to set up a craft shop, and she’s never

been happier. Just don’t mention Dragons’ Den… By Karen Dunn

Tucked away down a small street

in the heart of Bath’s historic city

centre is a shop that would send

any crafter’s heart aflutter. Stocked full

of fat quarters, buttons, clips and clasps,

washi tape and stamping sets, The Makery

Emporium is where we met Kate Smith,

the woman behind this lovely little supply

store, not to mention The Makery itself – a

hub for workshops and parties.

Back in 2008, Kate, 36, quit the party

lifestyle of London and moved west with

her husband Nigel to begin their first

craft business. It’s been a bumpy ride, but

Kate now has the job most of us dream of.

However, she was scared she might have

ruined it all after they appeared on BBC2’s

Dragons’ Den and got a roasting from the

Dragons. Kate explains…

“For 12 years, I worked in London in TV

and media. I was always doing all sorts of

exciting stuff, but as I got older it became

less fulfilling and I realised it wasn’t what I

wanted any more. Nigel and I got married

and decided we wanted to move and start

up our own business, but we didn’t know

what we wanted to do!

“At first we planned to move to Bristol,

but one day when we were driving back

to London we decided to stop in Bath

for lunch and fell in love with the place.

We went travelling for a year in 2007 and

spent the whole time brainstorming ideas

about what our new venture in Bath could

be and it always came back to making

stuff. It seemed so obvious – I’d had a

stall on Portobello Market while I was in

uni; I made all my friends’ dresses for the

university balls; and when I was little I’d

taught my friends to make slip dresses. I

even made my own wedding dress!

“Opening a workshop space seemed like

the perfect idea. I could teach crafts and we

would host parties. We could see how big

the craft scene was getting so we decided to

jump in with both feet. Most of our friends

thought we were completely crazy, but I’ve

always liked proving people wrong!

“We’d been saving the whole time we

were in London and had just enough

money to start the business, but we had

no survival money, so Nigel kept working

in London and I got a part-time job at a

branding agency in Bath while we found

the perfect premises. I found out I was

pregnant with our first daughter, Lyra, at

about the same time, but we just carried

on! We got the keys to our workshop two

weeks after we had Lyra in November 2009

and then opened the shop in December.

“I have to admit, the first year was

incredibly hard work – I taught all the

workshops and Nigel was still working in

London. I was taking Lyra to meetings and

having her sleep under my desk – that is

until she learned to crawl and I nearly had a

breakdown and begged the nursery to take

her for a few days!

“Despite the craziness, the business

was going really well – not only had we

already outgrown our workshop space but

we had lots of people asking where they

could buy the supplies, so we decided to

open The Makery Emporium, just up the

road, in 2010. By this point I’d realised I

couldn’t do it all myself and got in some

fantastic tutors to take the strain. However,

for that first year I barely had a day off

work and nearly had another breakdown

when I realised, with just weeks to go,

that I didn’t have anything to stock the

new shop with. Luckily an amazing friend

of mine, Lucy, worked for Virgin Atlantic

and after listening to me sobbing, booked

us on flights to Japan and we spent a week

in Japan’s Fabric Town. They have whole

department stores just for craft. It was

heaven! I made tons of contacts and came

back with five suitcases full of stock.

“By this point, Nigel was able to join the

business full-time and we were approached

about making a book, but as usual my

timing wasn’t great and I handed in my

final work to the publishers just ten hours

before I gave birth to our second daughter! Phot

os: Ti

m M

ossf

ord/

UN

P

REAL LIFE

22 Craftseller

“I was taking my daughter Lyra to

meetings and having her sleep under my desk!”


WorldMags.net



Clockwise from left: Kate started out sourcing

fabrics from Japan; Bakers Twine is sold in a host of

colours; from bunting and hearts to dogs and owls,

The Makery is packed with pretty trimmings and

on-trend ribbon designs; dive into the stash of

buttons, cleverly displayed in a stylish collection

of jars, bowls and baking trays!


WorldMags.net



“Then, in February this year, Dragons’

Den contacted us and asked if we had a

project we’d consider coming on the show

with. We’d been working on some new

craft kits and, feeling very flattered, we

decided to go for it. We only had two weeks

to get the business plan ready and worked

day and night on it. We didn’t consider that

it might be a bad idea until we walked into

the room and faced the Dragons. It was the

most terrifying experience of my life. After

we’d done our pitch, one of the Dragons,

Peter Jones, just laid into us for what felt

like hours. The other Dragons were much

nicer, but I was devastated and afterwards

Nigel had to talk to the camera because

I couldn’t stop crying! The programme

wasn’t aired until this September, so I then

spent six months worrying about it. By

coincidence, the release date for our book

was the day after the programme aired,

we thought people would still come to

our website, so we made sure you could

pre-order the book from there. I refused

to watch the episode and locked myself

in the kitchen with a bottle of wine, but

thankfully our pitch was nowhere near as

bad as I thought. Even better, our book

sold out on Amazon that night! It may have

been a horrific experience, but thanks to

Dragons’ Den we’ve been approached about

loads of new opportunities.

“Thanks to Dragons’ Den, we’ve had loads of

new opportunities”

Kate Smith

To book a workshop and see

the full range available at The

Makery, visit themakeryonline.

co.uk, plus turn to p92 now to

try Kate’s cute mouse pincushion.

Plan ahead

We spent a year working on our business

plan and have always known what we’ve

wanted to do for at least three years in

advance. You need to have a long-term plan

so that you can keep the momentum going.

I get bored very quickly, which is why we’re

always preparing for what’s happening next so

I can start working on it.

Get help

The biggest lesson for me was accepting

that I couldn’t do all the work myself. You

need other people to support you, whether

that’s staff for the shop or accountants for the

money side of things. If we hadn’t decided to

ask people in to help we would never have

developed the business and Nigel and I would

have just burnt ourselves out.

Don’t waste time worrying

about the competition

Keep it different and don’t worry about

what other businesses are doing. When we

opened up in 2009, there was only one other

place in England offering workshops like we

do and now there’s tons, but I refuse to look at

what others are doing – I just concentrate on my

own ideas and suppliers.

Kate’s top three tips for running a craft business

“2014 is looking exciting for us – we’re

moving to huge new premises where we

can combine both of the shops and add lots

more for our customers, from new stock to

sewing machine hire. It’ll also be a place

where they can get inspiration and advice

for their next projects. I know it sounds

clichéd, but I feel like I’m now doing what I

am supposed to, and all the other jobs I had

were simply so I could learn skills for the

life I have now. It’s been hard, but it’s the

best thing we could have done.”

Clockwise from top left: Cute

stamps are just one of the

products sold at The Makery;

The Emporium is a hive of

activity; crafty heaven!

REAL LIFE

24 Craftseller


WorldMags.net




WorldMags.net



www.silversewing.co.ukFor your nearest stockist and expert advice, please contact

Silver Viscount on 01933 311888 or [email protected]


WorldMags.net



30-minute makeSell your own brand of sparkle and fun this New Year’s Eve with these fantastic yet simple-to-make photo booth props. By Annie Bellamy

MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £3

FOR £6

INFORMATION

Materials:

* A selection of glitter and

metallic card

* Wooden skewers

* Decorative paper tape

* Glue

* Craft knife

Size: Largest is 18 x 15.5cm (7 x 6in)

Skill level: Easy

2 Carefully cut out each shape using a sharp pair of scissors or a craft knife for the more fiddly props.

1 Using the templates on p102, trace the shapes onto the reverse side of the selected card. You can add your own props with some simple line drawings.

3 Cut the pointed tip off the skewer. Fix the skewer onto the back of each prop using a few lengths of paper tape. Enjoy!

MAKE IT

Craftseller 27


WorldMags.net




WorldMags.net



MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £6

FOR £20

T he paired-down design of this red

and white cross stitch brooch creates

a natural, Scandinavian feel. Not only

is cross stitch trending on the high-street at

the moment, but the simple Scandi-style is

hot too, and the whole ensemble will make

a sweet Valentine’s Day gift. This is a perfect

stash-buster project as you need very little

embroidery thread. The lovely dark wood

surround is a setting that really works on this

simple brooch and gives a professional finish.

Woo passers-by with this simple stitched heart – it’s a perfect Valentine’s Day love token. By Sarah Heys

How to make the cross stitch brooch

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

t

HEART CHART

1Find the centre of the chart and fabric

– this is where you should start

stitching. Follow the chart until you have

completed the cross stitch design.

2Trim your stitching so that it is 4cm

(1½in) bigger than the wooden frame.

Lay the heart over the self-covering button,

following the instructions on the pack. Make

sure that the button will lie flat in the brooch

back – if not, you may need to trim it in the

middle a little bit.

3Cover the inside of the brooch setting

with glue and place the covered button

into the brooch setting and leave to set.

4Cover the brooch back in glue and stick

onto the back of the brooch, making

sure it is central. Leave to dry.

HEART KEY

Stitch count 15 high x 14 wide

14 HPI (28-count evenweave)

– 2.5 x 2.5cm (1x1in)

This design was stitched using DMC

stranded cotton on 14-count aida

Cross stitch in two strands

DMC Anchor Madeira Colour

t 777 43 509 red

Wear your heart...

STITCH IT

Craftseller 29

INFORMATION

Materials:

* White aida

* Threads as shown in key

* Size 24 tapestry needle

* Superglue or jewellery glue

* 38mm self-covering button

* Wooden frame: brooch setting

(40mm) from MagicWoodenJewel

on Etsy.com

* Brooch back

* Scissors

Size: 4cm (1½in) diameter

Skil level: moderate


WorldMags.net



MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £7

FOR £15

Tweed twistKeep up with the tweed trend by offering these stylish wrist warmers

– they’ll appeal to fashion-lovers everywhere. By Emma Read

SEW IT

30 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



SEW IT


WorldMags.net



Don’t choose fur that’s too thick or

your customers will struggle to get them

on and off

TOP TIP

SHOW US ON FACEBOOK!

If you’ve enjoyed making this

pincushion, post a photo on

the Craftseller Facebook page

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER!

Tweet us your tips and

advice, and follow our own

tweets @craftsellermag

FIND US ON PINTEREST!

We’ve got loads of crafty

inspiration for you to browse

at Pinterest.com/craftseller

These cosy wrist warmers are perfect

for that transition between autumn

and winter. They cover up that

annoying gap you normally get between

between your coat sleeve and glove, while

keeping fingers free to operate important

things like cups of tea and lip balm. Made

of stylish, thick tweed and luxurious, soft

faux rabbit fur, they not only look smart and

gorgeous, they’ll keep your buyers toasty and

warm, layered with gloves for extra warmth,

throughout the winter months. We sourced

our tweed fabric from a charity shop – use an

old tweed jacket and you’ll lower your outlay

costs dramatically. Always a bonus!

1Cut two pieces of main fabric,

measuring 24 x 27cm (9½ x 10½in)

from tweed, and two lining pieces, measuring

30 x 27cm (11¾ x 10½in) from fur fabric.

2Lay the tweed and fur pieces together

with the fur facing outwards, and with

the right side of the tweed facing inwards

(there should be approx. 2.5cm (1in) of

excess fur showing at the top and bottom).

3With the tweed on top, fold the two

layers in half and pin along the longest

edge. Sew a running stitch along the pinned

edge. Turn the right way round.

4Using the excess fur fabric showing at

both ends, fold over the tweed fabric

edges. Hand-sew the fur to the tweed using

a neat whipping stitch to hold it down.

5Sew two large coat buttons next to each

other near to the end of the cuff to give

the appearance of a jacket sleeve. Repeat

these steps with the other wrist warmer to

make a matching pair.

How to make the wrist warmers

32 Craftseller

SEW IT

INFORMATION

Materials:

* 50cm (20in) tweed fabric or similar

suiting fabric

* 50cm (20in) faux rabbit fur

* 4 large coat buttons

* Matching thread

Size: 27 x 11cm (10½ x 4¼in)

Skill level: Easy


WorldMags.net




WorldMags.net



MAKE IT


WorldMags.net



Scrub-a-dub-dub!

MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR

38p EACH

FOR £3.99

EACH

SAFETY FIRST The 2013 Cosmetic

Regulations state that all soap intended

for sale needs to be assessed, labelled

with ingredients and a batch code so it

is traceable if wrapped, or displayed on

a point of sale if unwrapped.

Pre-assessed soap is available to buy,

that is already coloured and scented.

You only have to melt and mould

it to your required shape. If your

finished soap looks edible, it will

need to be labelled ‘DO NOT EAT’ if it

is going to be sold.

How to make your alphabet soap

1Measure out a quantity of melt and

pour soap base into a heat-proof

container and heat it in the microwave or on

the hob until it is melted into a liquid. Take

care not to let the mixture boil.

2Add the fragrance or oil and colour

while the base is still liquid – you can

reheat it slightly if it starts to harden. Place

the mould(s) onto a level surface and pour

soap in at a steady rate, filling to the top.

3Cool the soap completely, remove it

from the mould(s) and wrap to sell.

Soap-making is fun, easy and these

kinds of gifts always go down well

at gift fairs. Melting a larger batch

to make multiple soaps at the same time

will save you time and money, plus bump

up that profit per item for you (the cost per

item here is calculated using 5kg of soap

base). You can also use all sorts of things as

a mould, but a silicone or plastic mould is

best as it allows the soap to be pushed out

once set. Change fragrances and colours, and

add embellishments such as glitter, seeds

and dried flowers to suit your style and your

shoppers' tastes. To sell, wrap in a cellophane

bag and tie with pretty ribbon or twine.

This simple, scented handmade soap made from alphabet letter moulds will be perfect for birthday or Valentine sales. By Kirsty Pedlingham

INFORMATION

Materials

From thesoapkitchen.co.uk

* Melt and pour soap base

* Choice of essential oil or fragrance

* Choice of colour or dye

* Soap letter mould

Size: 7 x 7cm (2¾ x 2¾in) each letter

Skill level: Easy

Dab a bit of coloured soap onto a white plate and let it set to check how the colour will look

TOP TIP

MAKE IT

Craftseller 35


WorldMags.net



is now available on iPad and iPhone

SUBSCRIBE

FROM JUST

£15.99

PLUS we’re now online! Visit www.craft-seller.com

To find out more just search Craftseller on the App Store


WorldMags.net



Free patterns and instructions online,kits from just £3.95!

7 The Green, Haddenham, Ely, Cambs, CB6 3TA

Semi-Precious Chipsfrom £2.50

Tools & Pliers£5.50

Fair Trade Kazuri Beads£1.95

Scan me!


WorldMags.net



JanuaryAny small business owner knows that as

New Year looms, so does the taxman.

If you haven’t done a paper tax return

in October, you need to file your online

version by 31st January, and there’s no

better time to do it than during the post-

Christmas lull. “You just can’t compete

with high-street sales, so don’t. Take

the time to relax, then start making for

Valentine’s Day,” says Louise Firchau of

Paper Panda (paperpanda.bigcartel.com).

Emma Jones, author and founder of small

business community, Enterprise Nation

(enterprisenation.com), advises crafters to

use the time to take stock: “Update your

business plan, plot your targets for the

year and have a strategy that shows how

you will achieve them,” she says.

As a busy crafter there are always things you need to do to make the best use of

your time and to make sure you don’t miss all-important events and holidays.

Whether it’s hitting deadlines, making the most of the festive season or

marking down important national dates, our yearly planner is essential reading

We take a look at how to map the year out in crafts...

By Verity Gough

monthly business plan

My 2014

FebruaryLove is in the air and it’s a busy time for

sales. Make sure your customer service and

packaging is up to scratch to build a loyal

buyer network. “Start on your Mother’s

Day projects by using and adapting your

Valentine’s makes,” says Steffi Stern of

Mother Goose (mothergooseonline.co.uk).

MarchWith Easter fast approaching, seek inspiration

for the coming trends by reading fashion and

craft magazines and blogs. “Now’s a good

time to photograph new spring/summer

items,” says Abi Simmond of The Red Hand

Gang (on Folksy). “Bright, crisp, clear shots

turn browsers into buyers!” For bakers, March

is about spotting opportunities to maximise

profits across the year: “Simnel cakes are

popular at Easter,” says Bruce McMichael,

author of Cook, Wrap, Sell. “So, let customers

know you make seasonal cakes.”

SELL IT

38 Craftseller

Spend January

preparing for

Valentine’s Day

Wooden floral

buttons look great

on spring crafts


WorldMags.net



AprilWedding season kicks off this month and it’s

one of the most lucrative revenue streams

for crafters. “Make a product that can be

easily customisable,” says Louise. “For

example, a heart cushion that you can add

names and dates to. Make one, photograph

it, then whip up lots of ‘blanks’ so that when

the season begins all you have to do is add

the details and post off the cushion.”

MayThis month is a good one for sniffing out

trends that will cross over into crafting. For

those making fashion or accessory items

trade, it’s time to send out press releases and

images of your autumn/winter styles to the

relevant fashion editors and bloggers: “Bear

in mind that magazines plan their editorial

content at least three months ahead,” says

Alison Lewy, author of Design Create Sell.

JuneFairs, fêtes and festivals are popping up

everywhere so plan which shows you

want to attend. “Many food festivals and

farmer’s markets are booked months in

advance, so let organisers know you want

a stall as soon as you can. If you’re offering

something unusual you’ve a much better

chance of securing a stand in the more

popular events,” advises Bruce.

JulyWhile many people head off on their

holidays, canny crafters are planning

their Christmas makes and bakes: “Start

baking Christmas cakes in July to allow the

ingredients to blend together and intensify

flavours. Your shoppers will start buying in

November,” advises Bruce. “Now’s the time

to start making appointments with trade

buyers to show them your autumn/winter

fashion collection,” adds Alison.

AugustBy now you should have your Christmas

crafting well underway. Make use of

foraged items such as driftwood, pebbles,

cones, etc, in your projects and take

advantage of any craft summer sales. “I

use August to research Christmas packaging

options,” says Abi. “If you send items, bear

in mind Post Office size and weight charges.

Beautiful packaging and affordable postal

charges = a very happy customer!”

SeptemberIt’s never too early to start peddling

your festive wares and Louise

recommends joining Facebook groups

such as Send In The Troops, Hike Those

Likes Market Place and Bob’s Place.

“Take a look at the business and see if

you can free up your time by focusing

on what you do best and outsourcing

social media, fulfilment, and marketing.

The business will grow and you’ll still be

doing the bit you enjoy,” adds Emma.

OctoberHalloween is a great opportunity to earn

some money and as it falls at the end

of the month, you can start making in

the first week or two. “I try to fit in with

the seasons, so for Halloween, I create

things like my pumpkin necklace while

my moustache necklaces are popular for

Movember,” says Tracey Humphreys of

LittleEnglishJewelry on Etsy.

NovemberChristmas sales should be building

steadily as many people start buying

this month. Festive markets are also

great places to sell your wares and lots

of crafters report some of their best

sales from these events. “Use Facebook

to drum up business by regularly posting

new makes, hinting that they are selling

out fast, to get those sales,” says Steffi.

DecemberMake a note of deadlines for

international shipping as well as

domestic, and make it clear on your

website or online shop so shoppers

know when they have to place orders

by. There will be last-minute making

to do as well as your own Christmas

shopping, so prepare to be busy!

SELL IT

Craftseller 39

‘Movember’ is a

popular time for

moustache makes!

Create unique items

to secure bookings at

popular summer fairs


WorldMags.net



Textile, jewellery & paper craft supplies

plus some lovely gifts - aren’t we fancy!

Visitors welcome by appointment at The Craft Room in Nottingham

)RU�RXU�IXOO�SURGXFW�UDQJH�VHDUFK�Å3LSSLQ�.LWVÆ�RQ�$PD]RQ�FR�XN�RU�YLVLW�3LSSLQNLWV�FRP�


WorldMags.net



New Year nibbles!Put the January diet on hold! These delicious treats are far too hard to resist

– and great sellers with the New Year party crowd By Jessica Sharp

BAKE IT

We love...Baking sweet and savoury party treats


WorldMags.net



1Heat oven to 160°C, 140°C Fan, Gas

Mark 3. Grease the sides, well and line

the bases of the round sandwich tins with

baking parchment.

2Combine ingredients for the white

sponge in a large bowl. Beat to form

a smooth batter. Divide between two tins,

smooth the surface and bake for 25-30mins,

until risen and golden. Remove from the

oven, cool in the tins for five minutes then

turn onto a rack to cool completely. Repeat

for pink sponge. Wrap the cooled sponges in

cling film and leave overnight to firm up.

3For the icing, melt the chocolate and

set aside to cool. Beat the butter until

very soft. Add icing sugar, beat until smooth.

Add vanilla and melted chocolate and beat.

4Trim the sponges to flatten the tops. Cut

a 12cm (4¾in) round from the centre

of each sponge, then cut a 6cm (2½in) circle

from the middle of that. You now have 18cm

and 12cm rings, plus a 6cm circle.

5Heat the glaze so it is easily spreadable.

Add lemon juice. Place a 18cm (7in)

white sponge ring on the cake board. Place a

12cm (4¾in) pink ring inside, followed by a

6cm (2½in) white circle. Top with a quarter

of the apricot glaze. On top of this, place a

pink 18cm (7in) ring, add a 12cm (4¾in)

white ring inside, followed by a 6cm (2½in)

pink circle. Spread the top with apricot glaze.

Repeat to stack all four sponges.

5Spread buttercream thinly over the

cake; chill for 30mins. To make the

‘petal’ pattern, fit a piping bag with a

medium-sized plain tip. Pipe a column of dots

(the size of a 5p), one beneath the other,

on the side of the cake. Hold a small palette

knife sideways, press down on the middle

of each dot then drag the knife to the right

to spread the icing to one side. Pipe another

column and repeat. Keep going until the

sides are covered with ‘petals’. Do the same

to ice the top of the cake, in circles.

INGREDIENTS

For the white sponge:

* 225g (8oz) self-raising flour

* 225g (8oz) soft butter

* 225g (8oz) caster sugar

* 85g (3oz) ground almonds

* 3 large eggs, lightly beaten

* 1 tsp vanilla extract

* 2 tbsp milk

For the pink sponge:

* 225g (8oz) self-raising flour

* 225g (8oz) soft butter


* 85g (3oz) ground almonds

* 3 large eggs, lightly beaten


* 2 tbsp milk

* Pink gel food colouring

For the filling and buttercream:

* 1 220g (8oz) jar apricot glaze

* 1 tbsp lemon juice

* 300g (10½oz) soft butter

* 650g (23oz) icing sugar

* 200g (7oz) white chocolate


Special equipment:

* Electric whisk or freestanding mixer

* 25cm (10in) cake board

* 2 x 18cm (7in) sandwich tins

* Piping bag with medium plain tip

Time taken: 2.5 hours (plus overnight)

Makes: 1 cake (cuts into 16-20 slices)

Skill level: Moderate

Chocolate buttercream chequerboard cake

ALLERGY ADVICE When you are selling

homemade food, like the yummy New

Year treats here, make sure you label all

products with clear allergy warnings. For

best practice make sure you have a full

list of the ingredients used available to

give to any customers who ask. For more

information on food safety advice, visit the

Food Standards Agency at food.gov.uk

44 Craftseller

BAKE IT

Many people party at home for New

Year, and welcome a helping hand

with the catering. So whether you

sell these delicious bakes by the piece, or

all in one, you’ll make a tasty profit. Salted

caramel is really popular, so don’t be shy,

take orders for whole trays of brownies! We

have the perfect cheeseboard companion,

parmesan and rosemary shortbreads make a

crumbly, buttery alternative to crackers. Sell

them boxed to add a bit extra to the price

tag. Lastly try a chequerboard cake that’s rich,

sweet and creamy. Serve as a dessert, with

fizzing sparklers, amid poppers a-popping!


WorldMags.net



BAKE IT

Craftseller 45

M A K E FOR £8

FOR

£15


WorldMags.net



1Mix all the ingredients together – using

a bowl and spoon, electric mixer or

food processor – until the ingredients start to

clump together into a dough. Turn the dough

onto a clean surface and knead briefly. Split

into two and roll each half into a cylinder

approximately 3cm (1¼in) wide. Wrap each

cylinder in cling film and chill in the fridge for

at least an hour. Alternatively you can make

the dough ahead and chill it for up to two

days before baking.

2Preheat the oven to 180°C, 350ºF

Gas Mark 4. Remove the dough

cylinders from the fridge and cut into slices

approximately 0.5cm (¼in) thick. Arrange on

a baking sheet lined with baking parchment,

and put in the oven for approximately

15mins, or until turning golden at the edges.

3Remove from the oven, leave to

cool on the tray for a couple

of minutes before removing the

biscuits to a wire rack to cool

completely. Then wrap to sell.

INGREDIENTS

For the shortbreads

* 150g plain flour

* 75g finely grated parmesan

* 100g soft unsalted butter

* 1 large egg yolk

* 1 tbsp freshly chopped rosemary

Time taken: 1 hour (excluding chilling time)

Makes: 35-40 small biscuits

Skill level: Easy

Parmesan and rosemary shortbreads

46 Craftseller

BAKE IT

M A K E FOR £1.50

FOR

£4.99

A BOX

Leave out a dish of seconds to let your

shoppers try a biscuit before they buy a

whole box

SELL MORE


WorldMags.net



INGREDIENTS

For the brownies:

* 225g (8oz) butter

* 250g (9oz) plain chocolate, chopped

* 3 eggs

* 1 tsp instant espresso powder (optional)


* 85g (3oz) plain flour

* 1½ tsp baking powder

* 150g (5½oz) milk chocolate chips

For the salted caramel sauce:

* 125g (4½oz) caster sugar

* 85ml (3 fl oz) double cream

* ½ tsp table salt


* Sea salt, for sprinkling

Time: 1½ hours

Makes: 25 squares

Skill level: Easy

1Preheat the oven to 180°C, 160°C fan,

Gas Mark 4. Line a tin or disposable foil

tray of approximately 23 x 30cm (9 x 12in)

with baking parchment.

2Melt the butter and dark chocolate

together in a medium bowl set over

simmering water or in the microwave.

Allow to cool for 15mins. In a large bowl,

stir together the eggs, espresso powder

and sugar. Stir the chocolate mixture into

the egg mixture and mix thoroughly. Fold

in the flour and baking powder, followed by

the chocolate chips. Spread evenly into the

prepared tin and bake for 30-35mins.

3While the brownies are cooling, make

the salted caramel sauce. Place the

caster sugar in a saucepan with 4 tbsp of

water and bring to a boil over a high heat.

Cook for four to five minutes, or until it

has thickened slightly and turned a golden

colour. Remove the pan from the heat then

immediately add the cream and stir with a

heatproof spoon. Take care as the caramel

could splutter when the cream is added.

Stir in the vanilla and salt and leave to cool


slightly before drizzling over the brownies.

Sprinkle with sea salt and allow the brownies

to cool completely in the tin.

4Once cooled, slice the brownies into

squares to serve, or stack on a vintage

plate to tempt passers-by. They keep for at

least a week in an airtight container.

BAKE IT

Craftseller 47

M A K E FOR £6

FOR £1.25

PER SQUARE

When you’re cutting your brownies, clean your knife regularly

to make sure the sides look neat

SELL MORE


WorldMags.net



GOOD CAUSES

48 Craftseller

Bake some delicious festive eats and treats this month to

help raise some cash for these three great charities

Bake scones and cakes to bring a little joy to

elderly people living alone

Help elderly people in your community

get 2014 off to a sweet start by hosting a

SuperJam Tea Party. This registered charity

organises hundreds of free tea parties

all over the UK for elderly people who

live alone or in care. Some of the biggest

parties have attracted over 600 guests,

and so far there have been 150 tea parties

held everywhere from tiny Welsh villages

to the Southbank in London. Founder of

SuperJam, Fraser Doherty, was inspired

by his Gran to create the charity: “When

my Gran made jam, she’d make scones and

cakes too and visit elderly people to have

afternoon tea. My little brother and I would

go along to provide entertainment.”

Now SuperJam need volunteers to help

run tea parties. Keep it simple with tea

and cake at a care home, or go large with a

tea dance. The charity will support events

with free jam and £50 towards food or

entertainment in return for a few photos of

your party to share on the SuperJam blog.

“The biggest parties have attracted over

600 guests”

How you can helpVisit superjamteaparties.com or email

[email protected] if you’d like more

information or to get involved.

SuperJam Tea Parties

Enjoy afternoon

tea with elderly

people in your area

Love jam? Bake

some scones for a

charity tea party

Charity bakes


WorldMags.net



GOOD CAUSES

Craftseller 49

How you can helpFor more information on Battersea Dogs &

Cats Home, visit battersea.org.uk or call

0870 890 0000.

How you can helpVisit teapot-trust.org or email

[email protected] for more information.

Start the New Year by lending a paw to help

our furry friends at Battersea

If you love animals, then make it your

New Year’s resolution to bake a difference

for the residents of Battersea Dogs & Cats

Home. By simply holding a cake sale in

your community, you could really help to

improve the lives of animals in need.

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home aims to

never turn away a dog or cat in need of help.

The charity reunites lost pets with their

owners as well as rescuing and rehoming

abandoned or abused animals, giving

them shelter and the highest standards of

kennelling and veterinary care. It receives

no government funding towards the

running of the home, and so relies on the

generosity of the public to help care for lost

and abandoned dogs and cats.

If you’re wondering how you can help,

then it really couldn’t be easier. Organise

a cake sale in your community and invite

everyone along to enjoy a cuppa and a

cupcake in return for a donation. It’s a great

excuse to get everyone together for a catch

up after the Christmas holidays and to meet

new people in your area. Put up posters in

local animal rescue centres and parks to

make sure you get a crowd of dog lovers,

then go to town baking pet-themed treats

for the hoards to enjoy. Try icing animal

faces onto cupcakes or making bone-shaped

gingerbread. You could even bake up a

batch of dog-friendly liver or tuna cake for

people to buy and take home for their pets!

The Teapot TrustWarm your teapot and whip up some

cakes to help raise much-needed funds for

children with chronic illnesses

If your craft club is looking for new charities

to support, then why not join The Teapot

Trust’s merry band of Teapotters and turn

your first meeting of the New Year into a

very special tea party? The Teapot Trust is a

Scottish charity that provides professional

art therapy in a medical environment to

children coping with chronic illness. It

particularly focuses on supporting children

suffering from complex rheumatological

diseases, including Lupus. Art therapy is

used to help these young people to adjust

and adapt to their life-limiting conditions.

Long-term health problems can cause

anxiety, anger and upset for children and

many find it difficult to talk about. With

the guidance of an art therapist, The Teapot

Trust offers a safe space for children to

express and deal with difficult feelings

using non-verbal communication such as

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home

Your bakes

will help cute

pooches in need

painting, collage or modelling clay. The

creative process helps children share their

worries, gain confidence, feel in control and

be more able to cope with their condition.

The charity desperately needs fundraisers

to help continue its vital work, and we

think hosting a tea(pot) party with fellow

crafters is a fun way to do that. Get a couple

of volunteers to help you bake and decorate

a selection of cakes and ask your craft club

members to give a donation to attend. Make

cake decorating the theme of your meeting

that week and hold a competition for the

most creative. The Teapot Trust will provide

you with promotion materials, special

invitations and place name cards to make

your party a success.

Bake to help sick

children create

and communicate


WorldMags.net



MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £50P

FOR £3-£4

MAKE IT

50 Craftseller

1Cut out the ‘Thanks’ sentiment and,

using the templates on p102, cut three

bunting shapes, the bird, wing, heart and

bunting string. Arrange all shapes onto card.

2Glue the bunting triangles and ‘Thanks’

sentiment in place directly onto the

card, then glue the bunting tape on top of

the bunting shapes to form the string.

3Stick the bird’s wing to the bird using

a small sticky pad, then stick the bird

Thanks loads!Shoppers are always looking for ways to say thank you and this personal card shows extra special gratitude. By Wendy Massey

How to make the thank you cardINFORMATION

Materials

For both cards, you will need:

* Free Craftseller papers

* Card blanks measuring

20cm x 15cm (8 x 6in) and

18cm x 13cm (7 x 5in)

* Plain black card

* Scissors

* Glue

* Fine marker

* Double-sided sticky pads

* Buttons

* Glue gun and glue sticks

Skill level: Easy

down with more sticky pads. Glue the heart

in place directly to the card and stick the

beak in place with a sticky pad.

4Pick four or five assorted buttons from

your stash and stick them onto the

bunting string using a glue gun.

5Using a fine marker pen, draw two legs

and a small eye onto the bird and draw

faux stitching around the bunting triangles

and the edge of the card.

Cards are always going to be a

popular addition to your stall, and we

have eight pages of free, glamorous

New Year-themed papers to kick-start your

card-making this month. If you are stuck for

inspiration, then we’ve come up with two

quick-to-make designs to get you started.


WorldMags.net



Party Season PAPER COLLECTION

8 PAGES of exclusive

designs


WorldMags.net



Pa

rty

Se

aso

n

PAPE

R C

OLL

ECTI

ON


WorldMags.net



Pa

rty

Se

aso

n

PAPER

COLLECTIO

N


WorldMags.net



Pa

rty

Se

aso

n

PAPE

R C

OLL

ECTI

ON


WorldMags.net



Pa

rty

Se

aso

n

PAPER

COLLECTIO

N


WorldMags.net



Pa

rty

Se

aso

n

PAPE

R C

OLL

ECTI

ON


WorldMags.net



Pa

rty

Se

aso

n

PAPER

COLLECTIO

N


WorldMags.net



Pa

rty

Se

aso

n

PAPE

R C

OLL

ECTI

ON


WorldMags.net



MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £1

FOR £3-£4

MAKE IT

Craftseller 59

Happy New Year!Stag head motifs sell on everything these days – so include the trend

in your card range for fab New Year sales... By Wendy Massey

How to make the stag head card

1Cut a piece of the damask paper to fit

the front of the card exactly. Carefully

line up the edges and glue into place.

2Cut out a stag’s head shape using the

template on p102. Using the first one

as a guide, cut another stag’s head shape,

slightly larger all round, from black card. Cut

out the ‘Happy new year’ sentiment and a

rectangle of contrasting paper.

3Trim and glue the sentiment to the

contrasting rectangle and glue them to

the card at the bottom left corner.

4Glue the stag head shapes together.

Place sticky pads onto the back of

the finished layers and glue onto the card.

Use the stag head to overlap the sentiment

slightly, as shown in the photo.


WorldMags.net



PAPERCRAFTBEADING&STITCHplus Cardmaking, Sewing, Knitting, Stamping

Sugarcraft, Cross Stitch and Quilting withWorkshops, Demonstrations and Make & Takes

find your nearest show at

sccshows.co.uk

SAVE £1.50Go to www.sccshows.co.uk or call 01822

617744 and quote CMP. Tickets cost £6.50 Adultsand £5.50 Concessions (£8 & £7 on-the-door).

& NO Booking Fee!

SandownParkRacecourseEsher,Surrey

23rd-25th JANUARY 2014Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 10am-5pm

FiveLakes,CrownePlazanrTiptree,Essex

13th-15th FEBRUARY 2014Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 10am-5pm

MalvernShowground27th FEBRUARY-1st MARCH 2014

Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 10am-5pm


WorldMags.net




WorldMags.net



MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £15.50

FOR £30

Mummy makesHandmade for baby, there’s nothing like a soft, downy sleeping bag to keep little ones cosy during the cold winter months. By Jane Tooze

SEW IT

62 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



SEW IT

Craftseller 63


WorldMags.net



00 Craftseller

Get set for the chilly months with cosy

items that’ll warm your shoppers’

hearts! This cosy sleeping bag is

made from purely cotton fabrics and cot

wadding, with a small safety tab to cover the

zip and safely tuck baby up for a good night’s

sleep. It is fully lined and has a zip running

down the length of one side to the bottom

for easy access. Plus, the jolly elephants are

a perfect design for boys or girls so your

sleeping bag will appeal to all buyers.

How to make the sleeping bagINFORMATION

Materials:

* 1m (40in) baby-safe

cotton wadding

* 2m (80in) honeycomb

pattern cotton

* Fat quarter lime cotton

* Fat quarter aqua cotton

* Small turquoise felt square

* 81cm (32in) cream zip

* Cream thread

* Turquoise thread

* Bondaweb – small square

* 3 x 11mm (½in) poppers

(fronts and backs)

* Popper pliers

* Sewing machine

* Scissors

* Pins

* Iron and ironing board

Size: age 6-18 months

Skill level: Easy

1 Using the templates on p102, cut out

a front and a back piece from the main

patterned fabric and from the lining fabric to

create the shape of the bag. Cut out a front

and a back shape from the wadding. Cut a

rectangle from the lime fabric, measuring

37.5 x 15.5cm (15 x 6in).

2 Take the front wadding and place the

front patterned piece on top with the right

side up. Pin the two layers together around

the edges. Repeat with the back piece of

patterned fabric and wadding.

3 Take the elephant templates and the

templates of three circles and draw around

them onto the paper side of the Bondaweb.

Take the felt and iron the Bondaweb onto

this. Cut the elephants and circles out of the

felt, using the Bondaweb shapes as a guide.

4 Repeat this with the aqua fabric drawing

around the remaining circles, ears and eyes.

Peel off the paper from the Bondaweb and

place them carefully in position. Iron them

all carefully to the lime rectangle.

5 Next iron the Bondaweb onto the lime

rectangle and finally iron the completed

rectangle onto the front panel of the

sleeping bag using the photo opposite as

a guide. Once everything is in place, use a

zigzag to sew around all of the shapes with

the turquoise thread. Press the front panel.

6 Now lay the front and back panels right

sides together, and sew down the right hand

side of the sleeping bag to half way along

the bottom of the bag. Trim excess wadding

and turn the bag the right way.

7 Lay the front and back lining, right

sides together, and sew again down the

right-hand side of the bag to half way along

the bottom. Slip the lining pieces inside the

main body of the bag. You should now have

a lined bag with a gap down one side.

8 Pin and sew the zip into this gap with the

top of the zip attaching under the left-hand

armpit. Attach the lining to the inside edge

of the zip and use a top stitch to sew it in

place and secure the bag.

9 Cut out the zip tabs, and with right sides

facing sew around the edge leaving short

side open. Turn right side out and tuck in the

raw edge and sew onto the left side of the

top of the zip. Secure this with a popper.

10 Using excess fabric from the bag or

appliqué fabric, make a binding. Bind off the

neck and armholes and top stitch all the way

around. Finish with sets of poppers to secure

the shoulder tabs.

NOW SELLING ON...

Not on the High Street

Green Child on noths.com

Etsy

MoutonCerise on etsy.com

SAFETY FIRST There are important

regulations to follow when making a quilt

or sleep bag for an infant. Infants are

never to be in any more than a 4-tog

quilt with the most recent research

suggesting babies should not be in

more than a 2.5-tog sleeping bag. You

can get safe organic baby quilting from

firesidefabrics.co.uk or visit any large

home store and purchase a quilt for a

cot, checking it is a low enough tog and

meets all the fire and safety regulations.

SEW IT

64 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



SEW IT

Craftseller 65


WorldMags.net




WorldMags.net



DROPS Design

DROPS

Over 4000 yarns in stock

100g

DK

Sale!

£1.69 per ball!

Over 100 different colours of

Stylecraft Special DK and Sirdar

Hayfield Bonus DK in stock.

All just £1.69 per 100g ball

Creative Cotton

Just £1.79 a ball

We stock every single colour that

Rico produce. Probably the biggest

range of Rico yarns in the UK!

www.woolwarehouse.co.uk

Patterns & Books

Needles & Hooks

Thousands of knitting

and crochet patterns,

needles, hooks, buttons

and accessories in stock!

We are the largest stockist of DROPS

yarn in the UK! Massive selection

in stock from just £1.40 per ball!

10%OFFVOUCHER

CODE

CS32

No minimum order Free UK delivery on orders over £25 £2.95 delivery for orders under £25

Website: www.woolwarehouse.co.uk

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 01926 882 818

Freephone: 0800 505 3300


WorldMags.net



68 Craftseller

Be inspired by these gorgeous giveaways, and enter today for your chance to walk away with a fab prize!

Fab freebies

3

4

10 prizes TO WIN!

1 GO DOTTY

When we spotted this range of stunning

crimson fabrics, we had to offer three lucky

winners a bundle of four fabrics (worth £52).

Visit dottybrown.com

To enter, text CRIMSON followed by your

name, address and email to 87474*

2HAVE A HEART

The Clover Heart Shape Pom Pom Maker

(£9.99) creates perfect heart poms and we

have 15 that you have the chance to win!

Visit woolwarehouse.co.uk

To enter, text HEART followed by your


3 BE TOY-SAFE

The Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch Brush

range is gorgeous paint that meets the

stringent requirements of European Union

EN-71-3 toy safety standards for toys and

children’s furniture. We have four cans of paint

to give to five lucky winners, worth £31.96!

Visit rustoleumspraypaint.com

To enter, text PAINT followed by your


4KEEP IT SIMPLE

Want the four Simple Makes books? Enter

to win one of three sets (worth £52), buy the

four titles at the special price of £40 or choose

your favourite for £11 (normally £12.99), with

free p&p. Call 01256 302699 and quote 9LM.

Visit quadrille.co.uk

To enter, text SIMPLE followed by your


5BE AMAZED

Win one of 10 pairs of tickets (worth £24)

to Cake International – The Sugarcraft, Cake

Decorating & Baking Show at the EventCity,

Manchester, 7-9 March 2014. Find inspiration,

supplies, demonstrations, and more.

Visit cakeinternational.co.uk

To enter, text CAKE followed by your


5

2 OVER

£1250OF PRIZESTO WIN

1


WorldMags.net



Craftseller 69

WIN IT

* Terms and conditions apply: The Promoter is Immediate Media Company Bristol Limited. Entrants must be UK residents aged 18 years or older. Texts will be charged at 25p plus your

standard network tariff rate. To enter by post: write your name, address and chosen freebie on the back of a postcard and send to: Craftseller 32, Immediate Media Company, 9th Floor,

Tower House, Fairfax Street, Bristol BS1 3BN. By entering this competition you are agreeing to receive newsletters, offers and promotions by post, email and telephone from Immediate

Media Company Ltd and the prize providers sending offers and newsletters to you by post, email or phone. You can unsubscribe from these at any time. If you do not want to receive this

information please add the words ‘NO INFO’ at the end of your text message or write ‘NO INFO’ on your postcard. Closing date for entries is 11.59pm on 15/01/14. For the full terms and

conditions visit craft-seller.com/competitions

7

6

6 SEEK IT OUT

Seek It Out’s new range of adult sewing

project kits (£21.50) for beginners to experts

make beautiful vintage products, without the

fuss and financial outlay. Enter to win either a

quilted knitting pin wrap, needle case set or

jewellery roll kit – we have six to give away!

Visit seekitout.co.uk

To enter, text SEWN followed by your


7 TRY TRANSFERS

Add a touch of whimsy to your next craft

project with cute iron-on transfers. We have

a fun set of woodland-inspired full-colour

transfers (worth £33) for five lucky readers to

win – our favourites include the wise old owl,

the elegant swan and a pretty swallow!

Visit vanikke.com

To enter, text TRANSFER followed by your


8 STICK ‘EM UP

Whether you’re selling face-to-face or

posting your makes, we know that packaging

is key. But you can have the prettiest paper

and it won’t impress without the right tape to

hold it, so we have 10 super sticky bundles of

tape and dispensers to giveaway, worth £10.

Visit 3mdirect.co.uk

To enter, text TAPE followed by your


8

6 prizes TO WIN!


WorldMags.net



CRAFT SELLER’S DIARY

70 Craftseller

Diary of a craft

selling mumEvery month, craft seller and mum of two, Erica Martyn, who makes

toys for her business Odds & Soxlets, invites us into her world…

THIS MONTH* Crafty makes – 34

* Trade customers – 3

* New handmade products – 3

* Stuffed animals burned – 2 monkeys

and 1 cat

* Number of parcels collected – 26

* New Year’s resolutions – 1

Day 1Lottie is now sleeping less in the day, is

more mobile by the minute and acutely

aware if my attention is not focused on

her, so finding time to work in the day is

becoming increasingly hard. Therefore my

New Year’s resolution is to be disciplined

and work for two to three hours every

evening, Monday to Thursday. Sometimes

this work/life balance takes real dedication.

Day 4Secured my third trade customer in as

many weeks! I am thrilled because it’s

great to have a big outlet for my makes

but it’s something I’ve always trodden

carefully with. There are so many things to

consider, such as ‘can I still make a profit

once they’ve taken their cut?’, ‘will they

purchase enough to make it worthwhile?’,

and ‘are they reaching a target audience I

wouldn’t be able to get to?’. One thing I’m

pretty sure I wouldn’t want to do is mass-

produce my work. I don’t like the thought

of my work losing its identity or standards

slipping. Handmade crafts are all about the

personal touch and not production lines.

Day 5There’s not much in life that I won’t turn

my hand to, but when it comes to tax

returns my motto is, ‘if you can’t do it

yourself, pay a man or a woman who can!’.

In my case, it’s my sister Sarah who helps

me once I’ve got all my paperwork sorted.

All about me I am 34 years old, and mum to three-year-old Harry

and baby girl, Lottie Rose! I have a husband called

Martin and a naughty but very sweet 12-year-old

Yorkshire Terrier called Mr Biggles. We live in Dorset

and I began my business in May 2011. I’m still

learning heaps, while at the same time juggling

home life, finances, and the needs and demands of

my growing family and my customers…

Erica starts on Milo

Monkey, the Movin

Monkeez mascot toy

Lottie loves sitting at

her activity chair in

Erica’s work room


WorldMags.net



CRAFT SELLER’S DIARY

Craftseller 71

Keeping up-to-date with taxes is just too

important to take any chances with.

Day 10After nearly bursting with excitement,

I’m finally able to tell people my big news!

I have been commissioned by Movin’

Monkeez, a pre-school dance and fitness

activity for babies and children, to produce

their mascot. He is a cheeky little fella called

Milo Monkey and luckily the women who

approached me loved my finished version!

I had to recreate their character into a

version that’s suitable to be made into a

plush toy. As with all my prototypes, he had

to be subjected to the full toy safety tests.

This broke Harry’s heart but I explained as

gently as I could, that in order for the toy to

be safe for other girls and boys, he has to be

tested for flammability. I find it difficult to

see the innocent faces of my makes going up

in smoke, however it is for the greater good

and I take a great deal of pride in knowing

my toys are safe and carry the CE mark.

Day 16I have spent ages trying to source some toy

noise inserts in the UK for me to add to my

own toys to make into rattles for babies. It

has proved so tricky, you’d have thought

I was looking for unicorn tears! So with

such an obvious gap in the market, I found

a good supplier and today received my

first shipment. Now on my website, other

artisan crafters can easily find squeakers,

jingle columns and rattle discs for their

specialist toy-making. To experiment with

my exciting new noise inserts, I made a few

of my cat dolls into toys that jingled.

Day 18I’ve been itching to use some rather funky

black and white skull fabric, so Harry

Harry’s tiger

impression was

pretty fearsome

suggested a black cat. He’s called Mr Binx,

he was once a witch’s cat but escaped and

now does heroic, good deeds. I love making

up stories for my characters as I go along

– it means as their personalities

emerge, their features and

characteristics naturally follow.

Day 22I’ve finally found a viable alternative to

the Royal Mail! After researching various

couriers I tried out My Hermes courier

service as they would collect from the

house, plus my parcels are insured.

The same lovely lady comes to my

door every week but I must admit

Harry is a bit disappointed as he thinks

going to the Post Office is a brilliant trip

out. It’s wonderful when children are at the

age when seeing a tractor, riding on a bus

and queuing in a Post Office is deemed to

be an adventure! I’ll miss those days when

they’re gone, so I’m taking advantage now.

Day 28I was greeted at the nursery gates by

a terrifying tiger today! He was quite

friendly until I tried to wash it off at bath

time, when he became a little fierce. In

the end I had to bribe Harry with getting

a special bubble bath with his baby sister.

Not sure what Lottie made of spending her

relaxation time with such a wild cat!

Erica puts her

toys through

their paces to

get the CE mark

This Sock Giraffe

is ready to be

packaged up for

a trade order


WorldMags.net




WorldMags.net



From junk to funkAn old vinyl record and some sheet music create perfect

harmony to net you a good profit. By Claire Watkins

MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £10

FOR £20

Music-themed items are always

popular with shoppers, and

especially gift-buyers at craft fairs.

So this upcycled clock is bound to go down

well and earn you a sizeable profit, because

by using an old vinyl record as the clock

base and discarded sheet music to cover it,

your only major expense is the mechanism.

What’s more, this stylish make is the perfect

accessory to update almost any room, so

there’ll be plenty of opportunities for a

sale. We think it would look great in your

shoppers’ living rooms, studies, or even the

bedroom of a child who loves to listen to

music or play an instrument. Just make sure

your buyers know the range of possibilities.

How to make the sheet music clock

1Arrange your sheet music pages on the

record and make a note of how they

are layered. Apply a coat of PVA to one side

of the record and, starting with the bottom

layer of sheet music, smooth the sheet onto

the vinyl. Push out any bubbles from the

sheet as you press it down. Ease the paper

round the edges of the record and apply a

little more PVA to the back to hold in place.

2Once the first sheet is thoroughly dry,

apply the next sheet, building up the

layers until the clock is covered. To speed up

the process you can use a hairdryer on a low

setting to help the PVA dry.

3Once the final sheet has dried, give the

whole clock front a coat of PVA. Once

this is dry, apply a further two coats. Tidy

up any rough edges of paper on the back of

the clock and apply more sheets of paper

to cover the black vinyl on the back. Again,

apply three coats of PVA to protect the paper

from wear and tear.

4Give the whole clock a coat of

waterproof clear varnish (test a

small corner on the back first to check for

discolouration of the paper). When fully dry,

attach the clock movement, following the

instructions supplied.

Welcome 2014

in style!

Avoid sheet music printed from the internet – the ink may smudge when the PVA is applied

TOP TIP

UPCYCLE IT

Craftseller 73

INFORMATION

Materials:

* An old vinyl 12-inch or album

* Old sheet music

* Clock movement from Vinyl

Guru on eBay

* PVA

* Clear waterproof varnish

* Brush

Size: Varies

Rating: Easy


WorldMags.net



Bags of styleBuyers will love the vintage charm of this knitted clutch bag

with its cute simple bow detail. By Susanne Frank

MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £20

FOR £35

KNIT IT

74 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



KNIT IT


WorldMags.net



(Make two)

Cast on 48sts.

Row 1: k.

Row 2 and all even rows: p

Row 3: k3, M1, k12, M1, k18, M1, k12, M1,

k3. 52sts.

Row 5: k3, M1, k46, M1, k3. 54sts.

Row 7: k3, M1, k14, M1, k20, M1, k14, M1,

k3. 58sts.

Row 9: k3, M1, k52, M1, k3. 60sts.

Row 11: k.

Row 13: k2, sl1, k1, psso, k14, sl1, k1, psso,

k20, k2tog, k14, k2tog, k2. 56sts.

Row 15: k.



Row 19: k.



Row 23: k.

Row 25: k2, sl1, k1, psso, k40, k2tog, k2.

46sts.


44sts.


42sts.

Row 31: k.

Row 33: k.

Row 35: cast off 1 at beg of row, knit to end.

41sts.

Row 36: cast off 1 at beg of row, purl to end.

40sts.

Row 37: k.

Row 38: p.

Row 39: cast off 1st at beg of row,

knit to end. 39sts.

Row 40: cast off 1st at beg of row,

purl to end. 38sts.

Repeat last two rows until you have 34sts.

Row 45: cast off 2sts, knit to end. 32sts.

Row 46: cast off 2sts, purl to end. 30sts.

Row 47: cast off 5sts, knit to end. 25sts.

Row 48: cast off 5sts, purl to end. 20sts.

Cast off rem sts.

To make up the bagBlock the two pieces. Lay them on top of

each other, right sides facing, and mark

where the clasp will be. Close the bottom and

side seam up to that marking. Darn in loose

ends. Turn right side out. Attach the clasp

with a few positional stitches first, to make

sure it’s in the right place. Cut off a length of

yarn and pull apart so you’ve got a thinner

strand that will fit through the holes in the

clasp. Then carefully stitch all along the edge

of the clasp, making sure the edge of the knit

fits neatly inside the clasp.

BowFirst part (A):

Cast on 10sts.

Row 1: k.

Row 2 and all

even rows: p.

Row 3: k3, M1, k4,

M1, k3. 12sts.

Row 4: p.

Row 5: k.

Row 6: p.

Row 7: k3, M1, k6, M1, k3. 14 sts.

Continue in st st for 15 rows.


12sts.

Row 24: p


10sts.


Row 33: k3, M1, k4, M1, k3. 12sts.

Row 34: p.

Row 35: k.

Row 36: p.

Row 37: k3, M1, k6, M1, k3. 14sts.



12sts.

Row 54: p.


10sts. Continue in st st for 8 rows, cast off.

Second part (B):

Cast on 10sts.

Knit 22 rows in st st.

Cast off.

To make up the bow:Darn in loose ends. Don’t block the pieces –

you want a natural curling edge. Sew the top

edge and the bottom edge of part A together.

Wrap part B around the middle of part A and

secure. Attach the finished bow to the bag,

securing it in several places.

Clutch bags are a staple in every

wardrobe and they‘re everywhere on

the high street, especially at this time

of year – from neat box bags to oversized

envelope designs. Your customers will want

to get their hands on this version with its

large, contemporary clasp and smooth knit

in a deep red shade. It’s roomy enough to

accommodate a phone, purse, make-up

and other necessities. We’ve used a smaller

needle size than usual to achieve a dense

knit, so the bag keeps its shape when in

use. The knit is simple – the clasp provides

the wow factor. Let shoppers know they can

dress the bag up or down depending on

the occasion, with coordinating woolies for

daytime or jewellery for evening.

ABBREVIATIONS

Sl st slip stitchst(s) stitch(es)K knitP purlBeg beginningSl slip sts from the left to right needlePsso pass slipped st overK2tog knit 2sts togetherM1 make 1stSt st stocking stitch

INFORMATION

Materials:

* 3 x 50g balls Debbie Bliss Rialto

Chunky in Red (shade 015)

* Kiss-lock clasp, 24cm (9.5in) wide

* 6mm (UK 4) knitting needles

* Tapestry needle

Size: 20cm (8in) high x 36cm (14in)

Skill level: Easy

Tension: 16 sts and 24 rows to

10cm (4in) square using 6mm

(UK 4) needles.

How to make the clutch bag

KNIT IT

76 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



You’ve made it, now sell it...

1Make a shoulder or wrist strap from

pretty velvet ribbon or metal chain for

added vintage glamour and practicality. 2 Vary the embellishment and keep

the luxe feel by swapping it for a bow

made from lace, silk, velvet or satin.

3Add a lining inside the bag. Pinstripe,

polka dots or a pop of contrasting

colour would make a sweet surprise.

4Create a statement bridal bag by

replacing the antique clasp for

a luxurious diamanté version.

5Be size wise. Make a small purse and

pop inside as an extra item or go maxi

for lovers of over-sized bags.

6 Get list savvy! List online under

headings such as 'gifts for her',

'wedding', 'birthdays' and 'Valentines'.

7 Use colour to get sales. Think pink,

mint and white for bridal, red and black

for evening and mustard, emerald and

indigo as on-trend hues customers will love.

8 Use Instagram or Twit pic to snap

shots of your bag out and about to

generate interest and post across your

social media channels – ask friends to help!

9 Customise, customise, customise!

Offer buyers a choice of yarn colour,

embellishment and lining to create

unique designs (for a premium, of course!)

10 Don't just bag up your bag! Wrap

in tissue paper and a branded

sticker then box up for a special

touch that buyers will appreciate.

Follow our hints and tips to maximise profits from your knitted clutch

NOW SELLING ON...

Folksy: Hand knitted bag by Knitting Granny, £18

Folksy: Small Knitted Clutch by Rhea Clements Designs, £30

Etsy: Bloom Noir silk-lined clutch purse by Red Ruby Rose £54.05

KNIT IT

Craftseller 77


WorldMags.net



On-line stockist of Liberty fabrics - Liberty Tana Lawn, Needlecord,Liberty Haberdashery and Liberty Lifestyle Crafting cottons.

www.sewbox.co.uk, [email protected], 01787 269366 (10am - 3pm)

Contact Claire on

[email protected]

for more information

facebook.com/ thecraftersbarn

@thecraftersbarn

Like to buy handcrafted gifts?

thecraftersbarn.co.ukJoin us at:

The UK’s commission free handcraft website.

Looking to sellyour handcraft online?

If you want a friendly, affordable & easy to use website to sell your creations then Crafters Boutique is for you!

www.craftersboutique.co.uk

Rent your shop from as little as £6 per month - the longer you rent the more you save!

No commissions are taken!

Easily renew or cancel your shop at the end of your rental period!

List as many of your creations as you like - there is no limit!’

Benefits of selling on Crafters Boutique include:

•

•

•

•

10%Discount

using code: craftseller

for craft seller readers

The Bead Pot, 50 Palace Street, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2DY

We pride ourselves on our

unique and stylish beads from all

over the world, including glass

beads, wooden beads, Swarovski

Crystals and much more. We

are always striving to find more

fun and exciting new products to

share with our beading family.

[email protected] 01227 784844 www.beadpot.co.uk

We at the bead pot love beads and creating and sharing all this with our customers.. .

¶+DEHUGDVKHU\�+HDYHQ·��

��+LJK�6WUHHW��

0DLGHQKHDG��

6/��-1��

��

)LQG�XV�RQ�)DFHERRN��

ZZZ�VHZFUDIW\VHZLQJFHQWUH�FR�XN�

Beaker ButtonFibre craft and Yarn shop

We design and make our own range of Dorset button kits, from simple buttons to beautiful pieces of jewellery.

We hold workshops felting, knitting, crochet, button making, spinning and lots of other wool related craft.

We provide a personal service to help you, from choosing your next project to fixing that dropped stitch.

[email protected] www.beakerbutton.co.uk

Studio 11, The Fairground Craft and Design Centre, Weyhill, Andover SP11 0QN

Tel: 07738 534164


WorldMags.net



Craftseller 79

SELL IT

The new craft-selling

trends for 2014Macramé, metallic cakes and… badgers! Find out what the experts predict will

be hot in handmade for the year ahead By Holly Johnson


WorldMags.net



Fauxidermy designer

Sarah Moore is seeing

more buyers wanting to

bring the natural world

into their homes

SELL IT

80 Craftseller

It’s a new year! Time to pack away those

mince pies, gather your senses after

the Christmas rush and look ahead

to exciting new makes and big business

plans. But what’s going to sell best in 2014

and propel you to success? Take a look at

the latest trends and find out how you can

adapt them for your own makes…

Cool colours & hot huesOne of the best ways to find out what

shoppers are going to be looking for

is to see what’s gracing the catwalks.

Whether you make fashion items or not,

the looks created by top-name designers

have a tendency to filter through to

the high street and beyond. Knitwear

designer and tutor Benjamin Wilson

(knityounexttuesday.com) agrees: “Every

year, the craft market is getting closer

to the fashion market. If you want your

designs to have long-lasting appeal, stop

looking at what’s in the shops, and start

looking at what’s on the catwalk. Pick

whatever is weirdest and work out how

you are going to sell it.”

London Fashion Week for Spring/

Summer 2014 was bursting with bold

florals, sorbet shades and shiny metallics,

while New York Fashion Week saw

designers mixing pastels and brights for

a new kind of colour contrast. Blues, in

particular, are set to be popular this

year, with ‘dazzling

blue’ being the official

Pantone colour for

spring (in case you’re

wondering, it’s

very close to

the blue used on

Facebook), and

softer blues dubbed

‘the new neutrals’.

The natural lookThemes and motifs

are also a great way

to ensure your makes

have that on-trend

edge, and for 2014 you’ll be pleased to hear

that the woodland theme is still going

strong. Foxes, owls, rabbits, deer – these

cute little folk are here to stay (for a while,

anyway). Benjamin’s hot tip for giving the

look your own spin? “Badgers are going to

be big. There’s always a woodland creature

in the spotlight of craft, and this year it’s

going to be badgers simply because they’ve

had such amazing press coverage in 2013.”

In fact, the natural world as a whole is

capturing our imagination. “2014 is going

to be full of nature,” says author of Vintage

Home, Sarah Moore (sarahmoorevintage.

com). “Leaves, shoots, birds, butterflies

and bold, natural-inspired patterns are

looking hot for 2014. Botanical drawings

and vintage prints complete the look.”

Faux taxidermy (known as ‘fauxidermy’)

is also set to stay en vogue: with less of the

‘ew’ factor than the real deal, this ethical

take on trophy animal heads showcases

techniques like wood carving, crochet and

patchwork. Sarah Moore is just one of the

big names creating these impressive

wall-mounted designs, along with

leading artist Shauna Richardson

(shaunarichardson.com), who is famed

for her giant ‘Crochetdermy’ animals.

Breaking the mouldIn the same vein as Shauna’s work,

crochet itself is looking popular for the

year ahead – from cushions to clothing, it

has a nostalgic, folksy feel that buyers of

handmade are loving. “We have noticed

a big increase in people wanting to

learn to crochet,” says big knitter Ingrid

Wagner, who is an elder at The Amazings

(theamazings.com). “We are producing

more designs for people who love working

with one wooden stick in their hands

instead of two.” She goes on to point out

that crafting is becoming less structured

and more ‘freeform’. “Knitters need a

pattern, crocheters do not and this may

have something to do with its popularity.”

Katie Allen, author of Just Sew Stories,

also thinks that we’re going to be more

adventurous with our makes in 2014.

“I think experimenting with different

threads will be popular next year. Macramé

is going to shake off its Seventies naffness

and be sassed up with neon cords and

ombre, while embroidery is going to

really come into its own as a bright and

colourful decoration. I think people will be

experimenting even more with geometric

wood and metal jewellery too.”

The taste of 2014

And finally, baking is going to see quirky

creations inspired by GBBO winner Francis

Quinn, along with exciting new flavour

combinations – as predicted by the director

of The Cake and Bake Show, Luke Collins:

“We’ll see more unusual flavours in sponge

cakes including vegetables such as beetroot

and courgette and also unusual flavours in

the icing. For wedding cakes, there’s a lot

of colour and also the use of metallics and

texture is going to be big.”

For pastry lovers, you’ll be pleased to

hear that this is also firmly on the menu.

“It’s all about puff pastry, choux pastry

and buns – pastry with different, unusual

flavours and intricate presentations.”

Feeling inspired? Time to give these

trends your own spin and incorporate

them into your makes. Have fun!

“Crafting is becoming less structured and more ‘freeform’”

Dazzling blue meets crochet for an on-trend

combination, as seen at Eucalyptus Clothing


WorldMags.net



SELL IT

5 ways to make 2014

trends your own

1. Channel the botanical look into jewellery makes by using pressed flowers, leaves or other natural found objects.

2. Upcycle old clothing by using felted wool jumpers to make mini patchwork woodland creatures.

3. Have fun with your crochet – make quirky garlands of fruit, or go edgy with skull-shaped coasters and other homewares.

4. Macramé a range of clutch bags using this season’s colour trends, like dazzling blue.

5. Juxtapose natural and manmade with a fox-motif purse in metallic gold.

1 Clashing florals – seen

here by Bluebellgray

at John Lewis – are hot

news for the year ahead

2 Big knitting is just one

of the ways in which

crafts are diversifying

3 We’re still in love with

woodland for 2014, as

seen at Biscuit Village

4 The botanical trend, as

interpreted with these

candlestick holders at

Re-found Objects

1

3

2

4


WorldMags.net




WorldMags.net



…then SAVE 33% …then SAVE 33% …then SAVE 33% …then SAVE 33% …then SAVE 33% …then SAVE 33%

…then SAVE 16% …then SAVE 44%…then SAVE 20% …then SAVE 15% …then SAVE 30% …then SAVE 20%

5 issues for£5 *

Beat those January blues with a magazine subscription 8EOI�SYX�E�WYFWGVMTXMSR�XS�ER]�SRI�SJ�]SYV�JEZSYVMXI�XMXPIW�ERH�VIGIMZI�]SYV�½�VWX�5 issues for just £5*

2 EASY WAYS TO ORDER

Visit www.buysubscriptions.com/januarysale and enter promotional code

Call 0844 844 0260please quote codeJSCXP14 JSCXP14

�� 8V]�]SYV�½�VWX�5 issues for just £5*

�� 2IZIV�QMWW�ER�MWWYI�SJ�]SYV�JEZSYVMXI�QEKE^MRI�� Continue to make great savings after your trial period�� )RNS]�IEW]�ERH�GSRZIRMIRX�HIPMZIV]�HMVIGX�XS�your door

Great reasons to subscribe This is just a

selection of our titles.

View our full range at

buysubscriptions.com/

januarysale


WorldMags.net



Perfect poochesThese cute amigurumi Scottie dogs, with their chunky snouts and tartan jackets, are great sellers throughout the year! By Liz Ward

MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £5

FOR £10

CROCHET IT

84 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



Craftseller 85


WorldMags.net



BodyUse 3mm (UK 11) crochet hook

and matching yarn.

Start with 6dc into magic ring. 6sts.

Round 1: 2dc into each st to the end. 12sts.

Round 2: (dc in the first st, 2dc in the next

st) repeat to end. 18sts.

Round 3-12: dc in each st to the end. 18sts.

Round 13: (dc2tog, dc in next st) repeat

to end. 12sts. Stuff the body now.

Round 14: (dc2tog) repeat to end. 6sts.

Cut the yarn leaving a long tail and pull

through loop to secure.

Using a wool needle weave the yarn

through the last 6sts and pull tight to close.

HeadUse 3mm (UK 11) crochet hook.

Start with 6dc into magic ring. 6sts.

Round 1: (dc in the first st, 3dc in

the next two sts) repeat to end. 14sts.

Round 2: 2dc in the first st, dc in the next st,

3dc in the next st, dc in the next 2sts, 3dc in

the next st, dc in the next 3sts, 3dc in next st,

dc in the next two sts, 3dc in next st,

2 dc in last st. 24sts.

Round 3-5: dc in each st to the end. 24sts.

Round 6-11: (dc2tog, dc in each st)

repeat to end. 18sts.

The iconic imagery of a Scottie dog

is a big trend this winter, currently

appearing on everything from haute

couture items fresh from the catwalk to

furniture, fabrics and interiors, so our sweet

little pups are sure to be a hit with your

pooch-loving shoppers. In fact, while these

amigurumi dogs are the ideal gifts for pet

owners, they also make sweet and stylish key

chains or bag charms for fashion-conscious

buyers. What's more, they are great stash-

busters as they can be crocheted from scraps

of yarn and fabric and take only a few hours

to make, so you’ll soon have a pack of them

whizzed up for your next craft fair.

ABBREVIATIONS

Sl st slip stitchdc double crochetst(s) stitch(es)dc2tog double crochet the next two stitches togetherBLO work in the back loop of the stitch only ch: chainhtr: half treble crochettr: treble crochet

INFORMATION

Materials:

* 1 x 50g DMC Natura Just Cotton in

Ivory No 2, Gris argent No 9, Sienna

No 41, Tournesol No 16 and Camel

No 57

* 3mm (UK 11) crochet hook

* 6mm (¼in) black toy eyes

* Wool needle

* Toy stuffing

* Stitch marker

* Pipe cleaners

* 20mm (¾in) buttons

* 5cm (2in) x 10mm (½in)

tartan ribbon

* 5cm (2in) x 38mm (1½in) tartan

ribbon (for the jacket) plus extra

scraps (for the hats)

* 20cm bias binding

* Black, red and green embroidery

thread

* Fabric glue

Size: 10 x 7 x 5cm (4 x 2¾ x 2in)


How to make the Scotties

CROCHET IT

86 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



SAFETY FIRST Hand-crafted amigurumi

items such as these are collectables

and are not to sell as toys for young

children. Always make sure your dogs

are made using natural yarns, safe toy

stuffing and eyes. Pay attention while

you are sewing your dogs together.

All the pieces must be attached

securely to make them safe.

Tail Use 3mm (UK 11) crochet hook and

matching yarn. Ch 8.

Starting in 2nd ch from hook and work as

follows along ch: 2sl st, 3dc, 2htr.



Sew in place on the body.

DecorationsDoggie coat: cut a 5cm (2in) piece of 38mm

(1½in) tartan ribbon and round off the edges.

Sew bias binding round the outside with

a running stitch. Sew or use fabric glue to

secure in place on the dog’s back.

Tam o’ shanter: cut a circle of tartan ribbon

slightly larger than your button. Work a

running stitch around the outside and pull

the thread tight to gather the ribbon over the

button to cover it. Glue or sew a red pom

pom to the top of the hat. Glue the hat to the

dog’s head above one ear at a jaunty angle.

Ribbon bow: using 10mm (½in) tartan

ribbon, place it round the dog’s neck and tie

a bow. Put a few stitches through the bow to

secure it in place.

Round 12: (dc2tog, dc in the next seven sts)


Round 13: (dc2tog, dc in the next six sts)


Round 14: (dc2tog, dc in the next five sts)


Insert the toy eyes now. These go on the

round marked with a stitch marker, 8

stitches apart.

Round 15: (dc2tog, dc in next st) repeat

to end.

Round 16: (dc2tog) repeat to end.



Using a wool needle weave the yarn through

the last 6sts and pull tight to close.

Sew the head onto the body

Ears – make 2Use 3mm (UK 11) crochet hook and matching

yarn. Ch 7.

Start in 2nd ch from hook and work as follows

along ch: sl st, 2dc, 2htr, tr.



Sew onto the head – one on each side, just

above the eyes.

Legs – make 4Use 3mm (UK 11) crochet hook and

matching yarn.

Start with 6dc into ring. 6sts.

Round 1: (dc in first two sts, 2 dc in next st)


Round 2: (blo dc in each st) repeat to end.

8sts.

Round 3-6: dc2tog (dc in each st) repeat to

end. 4st at end of round 6.

Round 7: dc in each st to end.



Cut a piece of pipe cleaner to the same

length as the leg and insert inside the leg to

make it more stable.

Use photo as a guide and sew the legs onto

the underside of the body.

Tartan is the

must-have

fabric this

season!

CROCHET IT

Craftseller 87


WorldMags.net



You’ve made it, now sell it...

1 Create a tiny tartan wardrobe for your

pups by whipping up wee hats, collars

and cute jackets in this popular pattern.

Follow our hints and tips to maximise profits from your crochet dogs

NOW SELLING ON...

Folksy: Lavender-filled Scottie dogs, Precious Moments Crafts, £5.95 each

Folksy: Scottie Dog by Gailcherub Creations, £7

WowThankYou: Hamish Dog Brooch by Sandy Mitchell Jewellery, £28

2 Broaden your market. List the

Scotties as bag charms, car accessories

and collectables for maximum reach.

3 Give a dog a home! Mock up a kennel

from cardboard or poke them out of a

handbag for a fun display on your stall.

4Name the pups. We love Hamish,

Angus, Gerty, Dougal, Florence and

Heather, but anything goes!

5Create a sense of fun with your

photos. Snap the pooches in a series of

quirky scenarios to add some humour.

6 Go colour crazy! Forget neutral tones,

these dogs can be rainbow brights,

pretty pastels or plain black and white.

7 Run a Scottie giveaway on Facebook.

Ask fans to like and share your makes

and give one lucky winner a dog of

their choice as a prize.

8 Ride the amigurumi wave. Cash-in

on its popularity by creating a Pinterest

board featuring other cute crochet dogs

you admire (and yours of course!)

9 Be price-wise. Offer boxed, gift

wrapped sets of three or five for a

premium or sell single Scotties at

a slightly higher price per pup.

10 Create a 'gifts for pet-lovers'

section in your online shop. List

and tag it too and add any other

pet-related makes to keep it relevant.

SELL IT

Craftseller 88


WorldMags.net



Q&A

Our panel of experts is on hand to answer all

your crafting and selling questions

Stag party

Q I am looking for a little inspiration for my new crafty accessories business.

What prints do you think will be big in 2014 and beyond?

MARLENE, BY EMAIL

A The fox! It may be seen as a predatory pest by many but he’s still the

Fantastic Mr Fox of the craft world. Fleets of foxes have chased out the owls

we’ve seen so much of in the past couple of years and he’s marking his territory.

However, butting his way through, along with those other English woodland

wonders badgers, rabbits and pheasants, is the stag. This magnificent creature is

everywhere from sculptures to art prints, from cushions to coasters. This year’s

palette is predicted to be made up of dazzling blue, lollipop orange, buttercup

yellow alongside parma violet, soft stone grey and laurel green, plus get ready to

welcome back black – it’s the new - erm, black.

Craftseller 89

Ask us

Blade runner

Q I am fascinated by the look of papercutting and

would love to learn more about it, and try it.

ANNIE HEAD, CUMBRIA

A Papercutting is a folk art dating back to 399AD.

It is practised all over the world including

China, Germany and Mexico, and is often associated

with storytelling and silhouette portraiture. Growing

hugely in popularity thanks to influential artists like

Mister Rob aka Rob Ryan, it needs minimal tools;

paper, pencil, scissors, and craft knives. We found

an introductory five-week course near you, taught

by the talented Amy Williams at The Brewery Arts

Centre, Kendal. See breweryarts.co.uk for more

info. A great book to start practising your new skills

is Papercutting for Special Occasions by Emily

Hogarth (£12.99, johnlewis.com)

Try contemporary

papercutting for

stunning imagesOh Deer prints from

Urban Road, Stag

Cushion from Cotswold

Trading and biscuit tin

from The Oak Room


WorldMags.net

http://breweryarts.co.uk

http://johnlewis.com



MY TOP TEN TIPS

90 Craftseller

Q&A

1Always have a

sketchbook. It

loosens your thinking.

2Choose threads

and fabrics wisely.

You need good quality.

3Use recycled

materials. Cereal

boxes are perfect

backing for magnets.

4Mix textures and

clashing colours.

5Only use bright

pink as a backdrop

for photos if you want

a rosy glow.

6Know the settings

on your camera.

7Keep pins and

needles safe.

8Don’t cut fabric

before you have

measured it, twice.

9Make boxes with

detachable lids for

easy posting.

10Use a range of

images on your

business cards, it’s

more engaging.

TRACY BONESS

creates beautiful hand

sewn boxes and cards

at Crafty Little House,

found on folksy.com,

just search TracyBoness

Taxing issues

Q I have recently started working from home in

the evenings so I need to complete a tax return.

I have never done one before so can you tell me how

much of my home is tax deductible?

ELIZABETH NEWCOMBE, BY EMAIL

A We checked with Starfish Accounting

(starfishaccounting.co.uk) who advise, “If

you work out of your home then, as a sole trader,

you can charge a proportion of certain household

expenses such as mortgage interest, utility bills, and

insurance. A good way to calculate the proportion

to charge is to do a rough estimate of square footage

used for your business, or base it on the number

of rooms that you use when you are working from

home, and the amount of time they are used for

business. Note: if you are using part of your house

exclusively for business then this can give you

problems with capital gains tax when you sell your

house in the future – non-exclusive use is much

safer. Alternatively you can claim £4 for each week

(from 2013-2014 onwards) where you use part of

your house for work, which is an easier calculation!”

Copy cats

Q I want to copyright my designs. Can I post

myself a copy to do this?

DENA DIXON, LONDON

A We asked copyrightservice.co.uk who say:

“This method may help, but it is extremely

poor evidence as it is easy to fake by replacing the

actual materials at a later date. The main problem

if you send your work to yourself via courier, any

postal service, or use any other system which

requires you to store the work yourself, is that there

is no verifiable evidence that the contents have not

been swapped.” For individually tailored assistance

and advice on how to protect your intellectual

property, go to ipo.gov.uk to use their free IP

Healthcheck. It will help you find out if you have IP

to protect, whether you own it and how to protect it.

FAQThis month our

top Facebook

question is…

Q I want to start

getting my finances

and bookkeeping in

order and have been told

I need to buy Excel. Is

there a free alternative?

PAULA HUNTER

A Excel is an electronic

spreadsheet

program by Microsoft

for storing, organising

and manipulating data.

Google Docs has a

spreadsheet tool, which

is great if you are happy

to work online and

OpenOffice.org has Calc,

which you can download

to your desktop.

Have you had your

IP Healthcheck?

Head to ipo.gov.uk

Find out whether part of your home is tax deductible


WorldMags.net

http://folksy.com

http://starfishaccounting.co.uk

http://copyrightservice.co.uk

http://ipo.gov.uk

http://OpenOffice.org

http://ipo.gov.uk



Craftseller 91

Q&A




Undercapitalisation Do not sugar coat your

budget to make the numbers work. Do your

research, have your costs in actual terms and then

ensure you have a 20% contingency.

Believing others will automatically fall in love

with the business To make a business from your

passion you need to remember that people will

not be immediately overawed by your creativity.

Bad advice Do not scrimp when paying for

advice. Bad business advice can rob you of profits

or even send you bankrupt.

Trying the same strategy and expecting a

different result Be true to your vision and

mission, but be flexible enough to survive.

Business with partners Be careful about taking

on partners. Ensure you have a clear agreement

with them and put it in writing.

Thinking you are bigger than the market

Don’t get too big for your boots, remember the

customer is often (though not always) right.

Growth that is too rapid Massive growth too

fast means you can miss some lessons and your

foundation will not be as solid as it should be.

Being too controlling You need to know how to

delegate and let people help you.

Not paying on time Don’t think

because you are small people

will forgive you for paying late.

It is disrespectful.

Having a selective focus Tax and

admin may bore you, but have

systems in place to ensure every

aspect is covered.

GUEST EXPERTMICHAEL JACOBSEN is an

international businessman,

entertainment entrepreneur and

author of The Business of Creativity.

Here are his ten most common

mistakes made by many start-ups…

NAME: Helen Dolan

WEB: helenleigh

dolan.com

TYPE: Jewellery

TOOL: Piercing saw

AVAILABLE FROM:

powertoolsdirect.com

COST: £8.40

The B

usin

ess

of

Cre

ati

vit

y h

arri

man

-house

.co.

uk, £11.5

5

Tea lights

Q I’ve purchased a load of beautiful teacups from a car boot sale. Any ideas

for how I can use them in my crafts would be gratefully received.

AMANDA DAWSON, HUDDERSFIELD

A You mean aside from serving tea? Course you do. Well, you could make a

cake stand, drill a hole in the bottom and plant bulbs, add seeds and wax

for a bird feeder, store your scraps and

stash and bits and bobs, add ribbon and

create a gift receptacle, add pot pourri

or use them to serve chocolate mousse.

But our very favourite idea is to make

teacup candles. In a small pan set over

a larger pan of simmering water, melt

down old candles and remove old wicks

with tongs. Cut a piece of wicking to

the cup’s height plus 5cm. Tie one end

around a skewer. Pour in the wax,

stopping 1.5cm below the rim. Allow

wax to set. Pour in more melted wax to

even out the surface, allow to harden

and then trim wick. All the equipment

needed to make your candles, including

stearine flakes to improve burning

quality and dye shavings for colour, is

available from hobbycraft.co.uk.

Find our latest

candle project

in issue 31

“A piercing saw is a crucial

yet relatively inexpensive

tool used by jewellers for

cutting their designs from

sheet metal. It is key in my

jewellery-making process

and used on every piece

I create to cut the basic

shape. Initially it requires

a considerable amount

of practice to master the

technique, but is then

straightforward enough to

use. What I love most is that

this plain-looking instrument

allows my creativity to be

realised by turning a plain

sheet of metal into a piece

of art. Using just hand tools

does take more time and

more effort than machine

cutting, however I firmly

believe this creates an

individual and unique piece

of work, which is important

to my artistic integrity.”

ESSENTIAL CRAFT TOOL


WorldMags.net

mailto:[email protected]


http://helenleighdolan.com

http://powertoolsdirect.com

http://hobbycraft.co.uk

http://helenleighdolan.com

http://harriman-house.co.uk

http://facebook.com



MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE FOR £1

FOR £11

SEW IT

92 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



INFORMATION

Materials

* Fabric scraps

* Scissors

* Needles and thread

* 2 small buttons or beads

* Embroidery thread

* Stuffing

* 20cm (8in) ribbon

Size: 10cm (4in)


Make a crafty tennerThis adorable pincushion is quick to sew and uses tiny amounts of

scrap fabrics. You’ll make a mice little profit! By Kate Smith

These cute pincushions are one of the

best ways we’ve found of using up

scraps of pretty fabric. They make

great presents for anyone with an interest

in sewing, or as part of a beginner’s sewing

kit. By using scraps of fabric, the material

costs are next to nothing, and once you get

into the swing, the making time can be

honed to about 40 minutes. Add value by

including pretty coloured pins and running up

a matching fabric gift bag or needle case.

1Using the templates on p102, cut

out 2 x body sides, 1 x body base, 4

x ears. Lay the body side pieces on top of

each other, right sides facing. Machine stitch

around the curved edge with a 1cm (¼in)

seam allowance. Clip the curves, ensuring

you don’t cut the line of stitching.

2Tie a knot in the end of the ribbon. Pin

the knotted end onto the right side

of the body base fabric piece. It’s important

that the long end of the ribbon is wound in a

coil, to keep clear of the stitching.

3Open out the body side pieces and pin

to the body base, right sides facing.

The ribbon should line up with the back

seam of the body side pieces. Pin all the

way round making sure raw edges line up.

4Sew together with a 1cm (¼in) seam

allowance, making sure you leave

a 4cm (1½in) gap at the side to turn the

mouse the right sides out.

5Clip the curved seams, again ensuring

you don’t cut too close to the stitching.

Turn the mouse so the right side is out,

making sure you push the curves and corners

out properly, using the blunt end of a pencil.

6Fill with stuffing until the mouse is

firm. Hand sew the gap using a slip

stitch or ladder stitch and small stitches.

7Take your buttons or beads and sew

in position for the eyes – check the

picture, opposite, for guidance.

8Take two ear pieces (one back and one

front), and place together with right

sides facing. Stitch around the curved edge

with a 0.5cm seam. Clip the curves and turn

right side out. Repeat for the other ear.

9Turn the raw edges of the ear front

and back towards the inside of the ear,

to conceal them. Give the ears a little fold

in the middle and pin them both in place on

the mouse (check the picture). Sew in place

using small stitches.

10Thread a needle with embroidery

thread, tie a knot 3cm (1¼in) from

the end. Push the needle into the mouse’s

nose where a whisker should be, bringing

the needle out the other side where another

whisker should be. Pull it tight, and tie

another knot close to the fabric to secure the

thread in place, snip 3cm (1¼in) from the

knot. Make three whiskers each side.

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER!

Tweet us your tips and advice, and follow our own tweets @craftsellermag

How to make the mouse pincushion

SEW IT

Craftseller 93


WorldMags.net



More ways than one...

Master the technique of cluster jewellery and you’ll have endless creative ways to extend your handmade range. By Dorothy Wood

MAKE A PROFIT!

MAKE BOTH

FOR £8

BOTH FOR

£32.50

MAKE IT

94 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



MAKE IT

Craftseller 95


WorldMags.net



Cluster jewellery always looks

spectacular and is deceptively easy

to make. Master the basic wrapped

loop technique and repeat it over and over

again, building up a cluster of beads for a

really opulent finish. The technique here is

a two-part process, where the loop is ‘pre-

formed’ before being attached to the ring

or chain and then the process completed by

wrapping the tail. Add the larger beads first

and then work down to the smaller beads,

using soft headpins with a ball end to give

a more attractive finish to the necklace and

ring. Of course you can alter your colours and

beads to reflect current trends – for example,

try gunmetal headpins and chain for that

unmistakeable vintage look.

INFORMATION

Materials

From bead-workshop.co.uk

* AB puffy rondelles in smokey grey;

one strand of each 6 x 4mm,

8 x 6mm and 10 x 7mm

* 6mm off-white glass pearl beads in

light coffee

* 2 x 15cm (6in) lengths of

silver-plated ‘rope’ chain

* 15cm (6in) silver-plated 3mm

round link chain

* Bolt ring, silver-plated

* 2 x 4mm jump rings, silver-plated

* Split ring, silver-plated

* Ball end headpins, silver-plated

* Cluster ring base, silver-plated

* Jewellery pliers, round-nose,

snipe-nose and flush wire cutters

* Extension chain (optional)

* Pearl dangle (optional)

Size: ring 2.5cm (1in) cluster,

necklace 45-50cm (18-20in) length

Skill level: Easy

MAKE IT

96 Craftseller

How to make the ring

1 Use 10 x 6mm pearls; three of 8 x 6mm

and 10 of 6 x 4mm rondelles. Pick up 10

pearls, each onto a ball end headpin. Hold the

first headpin with round-nose pliers, and bend

tail of headpin over at right angle.

3 Reposition the pliers again and bend the

tail around so that it is at a right angle to the

direction of the headpin through the bead.

This stage creates a ‘pre-formed’ loop.

5 Hold the loop that you’ve made in

snipe-nose pliers and then wrap the tail of

the headpin around the short, straight section

above the bead. Trim the tail of the headpin

close to this wrapping.

2 Reposition the pliers as shown and wrap

the headpin tail over the top of the jaws of

the pliers and down the side of the bead.

4 Feed the tail into one of the metal loops

on the ring base until the headpin loop is on

the ring base loop.

6 Repeat with the rest of the pearls,

scattered over the ring base. Add the three

8 x 6mm rondelles and then finish with the

smaller 6 x 4mm rondelles until the ring

cluster is solid when the ring is worn.


WorldMags.net

http://bead-workshop.co.uk



Pre-form loops on all of one type of bead at once rather than one

at a time to speed up the process

TOP TIP

NOW SELLING ON...

Not on the High Street

Erin Cox Jewellery on noths.com

Folksy

Fallon Ismail on folksy.com

MAKE IT

Craftseller 97

How to make the necklace

1 Use 35 6mm pearls; 15 10 x 7mm; 13 8 x

6mm; 13 6 x 4mm rondelles. Open end links

of round chain to attach 15cm rope chains.

Follow ring steps 1-3 and add headpins to 10

x 7mm rondelles. Attach rondelles every four

links along centre round chain, alternating the

side you’re attaching the headpins.

2 Add the 8 x 6mm rondelles, spaced

equally along the necklace and then the 6

x 4mm rondelles and pearls. Add more in

the middle to create a heavier cluster in the

middle, tapering out to the ends.

3 Attach a bolt ring fastening to one end

and a split ring to the other. Add a short

extension chain with a pearl dangle.


WorldMags.net

http://noths.com

http://folksy.com



MY CRAFT SHOP

98 Craftseller

MY CRAFT SHOP

98 Craftseller

Meet a trio of craft sellers who share the

moneymaking secrets behind their success

Ensure that potential shoppers can find their way

around your site easily, advises Andrea

“I’ve always had a passion for creating and designing

– like many people, I began by making things for my

own home as a hobby, but feedback from friends

and family encouraged me to take things further. I

make many items from driftwood washed up on our

beautiful South Devon beaches – which means that

each piece is absolutely unique!

“I started selling on an online auction site, and the

positive response I received persuaded me to open

an Etsy shop. Soon after that, I created my own site

using the free template provider Moonfruit. The most

important lesson I learned was how vital it is to make

your website easily navigable: if buyers can’t find

their way around easily, they’ll just go elsewhere.

“A couple of Christmases ago, I made candles in

vintage teacups and saucers for family members.

That one idea really grew, and my husband and I

now make soy wax candles in tins with personalised

labels. Shoppers email us their chosen message for

the label, and the candles make lovely birthday and

Christmas presents or even to celebrate a new baby.

“More recently, a bride-to-be asked if we

could supply bespoke letters for the top table at

her wedding. Since then, I’ve had requests from

customers for painted letters for all sorts of occasions.

“The best thing about working for yourself is

the freedom. If the weather is bad, I catch up on

paperwork, update the website and check social

media. If it’s sunny, I go for a walk along the beach

and look for driftwood. Life doesn’t get much better!”

A shopper’s first

impression will be

when they open

the box, so use

elegant packaging

TOP TIP

“I created my website using Moonfruit”

The website owner

ANDREA PARKER

from South Devon

WEBSITE

andreafays.moonfruit.

com

Andrea’s bespoke,

hand-painted letters

have really taken off

Offices don’t get

much prettier

than this one!

The coastline

where Andrea

lives inspires

her work

My craft shop


WorldMags.net

http://andreafays.moonfruit.com

http://andreafays.moonfruit.com



MY CRAFT SHOP

Craftseller 99

For Eileen, the contact that she gets with her

shoppers makes selling at craft fairs invaluable

“I’ve been designing and making for over 30 years,

and my work uses a combination of disciplines. Over

the years, I have sold my creations at many local craft

fairs. I’ve learnt that the appearance of your stall is

important – it needs to be clear and eye-catching.

“A good craft fair can have many benefits, not just

in terms of sales on the day. They are a great way

to interact with shoppers and to get advice from

fellow crafters. Buyers enjoy meeting you and getting

to know the story behind an item and, of course,

passers-by are able to see and feel the quality of your

work, or even try an item on.

“There are some things to think about though –

there’s always that rainstorm that keeps people at

home in the dry and you do need to have liability

insurance, in case an item or any part of your

stand falls and hurts someone. But there are so

many benefits that a good fair is well worth a few

drawbacks. They can give you a real buzz, so once

you’ve done one good one you won’t want to stop!”

The stallholder

“Your stall needs to be clear and

eye-catching”

Folksy’s friendly community was just what Laura

needed at the start of her creative journey

“I’d been making cards to send to friends and family

for a long time. Then, I found myself out of work

and decided to see if I could make money from my

creations. Between filling out job applications I

planned, set up and launched my business, selling

handmade cards, notebooks and gifts. Two years on,

any thoughts of job applications are long gone!

“I started off selling through Folksy. When you’re

starting out, you need to feel part of a community,

and Folksy offers a very supportive environment. This

year, I also started selling on Etsy, hoping to reach a

different market. It’s much bigger than Folksy and

I can feel a bit lost at times, but it has been exciting

sending my handmade stationery around the world.

“For me, being on both sites works well and, while

two shops means more work, they’re both attracting

different customers and bringing in good sales.”

The online marketplace

Laura Pyke

From Yorkshire

WEBSITE

SayIt on Folksy.com

EILEEN CRITCHLEY

From Surrey

EILEEN’S CRAFT

STUDIO

EileensCraftStudio on

Folksy.com

Eileen sells knits

and needlework

Research each fair

before signing up.

Check the event is

well established

and advertised

TOP TIP

Aim for your pictures

to be the best among

similar products

on your selling site.

Photos are key

TOP TIP


WorldMags.net

http://Folksy.com

http://Folksy.com



CRAFTY COURSES

100 Craftseller

Choose from a whole range

of craft classes in this

vibrant centre of creativity

The three ladies who run Crafty Pedlars

workshops in West Lothian, Scotland,

were brought together by shared passion.

“We’ve all been enthusiastic makers since

childhood,” explains tutor and founding

Pedlar, Wendy Lorimer. “I started young,

selling daisy chain necklaces for 2p!”

Principal tutor Nicola Newton teaches

sewing, knitting, doll-making, fabric

printing, rag-rugging and more. Nicola’s

niece, Lucy Newton, owns the beautiful

gallery in West Calder where classes

are held with inspirational views of the

countryside outside and beautiful paintings,

delicious cakes and a log fire indoors.

Wendy makes beauty products – and

teaches learners how to use natural,

Why not add a new craft to your skill set? Here are

some of our top courses for you to try this month

skin-friendly ingredients such as herbs

and flowers. She also teaches letterpress

and lino printing and photography. “I’m

inspired by combining different crafts,

printing fabric or paper, or using my photos

to inspire a design,” Wendy reveals.

Bookbinding and woodcraft tutor

Nicky McDonald works in the Book Shop

in nearby Wigtown – so is never short of

inspiration. “Bookbinding is a wonderful

traditional skill to pass on, and you can

make something that looks fantastic in just

one day,” Nicky enthuses.

“Our aim is to offer fun, friendly classes

with a relaxed, positive atmosphere and for

all participants to feel real pleasure in their

achievementsm,” Wendy concludes.

Crafty Pedlars

Crafty courses

INFORMATION

* Information Day classes include

Printing and Fabric Painting (£90),

Recycle – Upcycle! (£80), Soap

Making (£80) and Bookbinding

(£80). Evening classes include Learn

to Knit, Learn to Sew and Rag Rug

Making (two-hour sessions, £8 per

session or 10 for £65).

* For more information contact

Wendy on 01506 870145,

[email protected] or visit

craftypedlarsworkshops.co.uk

Try anything

from knitting to

rug making


WorldMags.net


http://craftypedlarsworkshops.co.uk



Craftseller 101

CRAFTY COURSES

Nicki Trench is a well-known designer,

craft consultant and author of craft

books including Cute & Easy Crochet, A

Passion for Patchwork & Quilting and

Geek Chic Crochet. She also uses her

years of experience to runs a series of

workshops in craft skills ranging from

crochet, knitting, sewing and patchwork

to cake decorating – not to mention the

complex arts of making jams, chutneys

and piccalillis, all from her converted

barn in East Sussex.

Nicki’s most popular classes include

Beginner’s Crochet, where learners will

pick up basic techniques and stitches

including double and treble crochet and slip

stitching. Each learner leaves the course

with brand new skills and their very own

simple crochet flower. Learners on the

Beginners’ Patchwork course, meanwhile,

will spend the session making a simple

Nicki Trench Workshopspatchwork top while learning how to piece

simple squares together effectively, choose

a design and then sew it together. On

Nicki’s cake decorating course, participants

get the chance to learn how to ice a cake

with fondant, and pick up the technique for

making beautiful sugarpaste roses that’ll

look too good to eat.

“We have a real mix of levels – some

are complete beginners, others more

experienced learners wanting to increase

their craft repertoire,” Nicki explains.

“People of all ages and walks of life come

to learn traditional crafts and enjoy a

homemade lunch in a welcoming and

inspiring atmosphere with a friendly and

experienced tutor on hand.”

“People of all ages and walks of life come to learn”




WHY NOT TRY...More great craft courses around

the country

Edinburgh New Town Cookery School

Courses for all abilities and ages, from

evening classes and one-day sessions to

three- and six-month training courses for

those wanting to enter the food industry.

Plus fun and informative sessions for

children and teenagers.

Visit entcs.co.uk

Stamping Obsession

Cardmaking, stamping and scrapbook

classes and workshops led by craft addict

Sarah Piggott at her home in Eastbourne,

East Sussex – or she can come to yours if

you’re within 45 minutes’ drive.

Visit stampingobsession.com

Llanthony Art Courses

Various two- and three-day courses in

painting, printmaking, photography,

botanical illustration and stone carving, held

in spacious studios within a converted barn

overlooking the beautiful Llanthony valley.

Courses for all levels. Cottages are also

available to rent while you learn.

Visit llanthonyart.co.uk

Stitchbusiness

This textile arts school in Durham City

teaches City & Guilds qualifications in

Machine Embroidery, Hand Stitch, Goldwork

and more. You have the option to study

on-site or as a distance learner.

Visit stitchbusiness.com

Abakhan Fabrics

At its two premises in Liverpool and Mostyn,

North Wales, tutors at this fabric shop

will teach you to create everything from

bunting and fascinators to dresses and

soft furnishings. There’s also an ongoing

programme of free demonstrations and

events to get you in the sewing mood.

Visit abakhan.co.uk

INFORMATION

* Information Workshops run from

10am-4pm and cost between £60 and

£80, including homemade lunch,

cakes and practice equipment.

* For more information contact Nicki

on [email protected] or visit

nickitrench.com

Learn from

Nicki’s wide

range of skills


WorldMags.net



http://entcs.co.uk

http://stampingobsession.com

http://llanthonyart.co.uk

http://stitchbusiness.com

http://abakhan.co.uk


http://nickitrench.com

http://facebook.com



TemplatesUse these templates to make the felt fox on page 16, photo

booth kit on page 27, baby sleeping bag on page 62 and the mouse pincushion on page 92

FELT FOX

(COPY AT 200%)

HEADCut 2 in

orange felt

EARCut 4 in

orange felt

TAILCut 2 in

orange felt

HANDCut 4 in

orange felt

JACKET FRONTCut 4 in black fabric

SLEEVECut 4 in black fabric

OUTSIDE

LEGCut 2

TORSOCut 4 in

orange felt

HEAD BACKCut 1 in

orange felt

PARTY HATCut 1 in red/white

polka dot fabric

SHIRTCut 2 in white fabric

GLASS STEMCut 1 in grey felt

HAT BASECut 4 in white GLASS TOP

Cut 2 in grey felt

GLASS BASECut 2 in grey felt

SHIRT COLLARCut 1 in white fabric

HANDKERCHIEFCut 1 in white fabric

POCKET 2Cut 4 in

black fabric

EYECut 2

white felt

POCKET 1Cut 1 in

black fabric

EYELIDCut 2 in

orange felt

INSIDE

LEGCut 2 in

orange felt

Neck inside

JACKET BACKCut 2 in black

fabric (cut the slit in both shapes)

Cut slit

TROUSERSCut 2 in black

fabric (Cut the slit in 1 of the shape)

JACKET COLLARCut 2 in black fabric

BOW TIECut 2 in black fabric

CHINCut 2 in

orange felt

102 Craftseller

Vist craft-seller.com/free-downloads

to print all our templates at 100%,

ready to use

TOP TIP


WorldMags.net

http://craft-seller.com/free-downloads

http://craft-seller.com/free-downloads



MEDIUM

ELEPHANT

MOUSE BUM

MOUSE

Cut 2ELEPHANT

(COPY AT 200%)

SLEEPING BAG

(COPY AT 400%)

NEW YEAR CARDS

(COPY AT 200%)

LARGE

EYES

MEDIUM

EYES

SMALL

EYES

SLEEPING BAG FRONTarmpit 30.5cm (12in) width

51cm (20in) lengthbottom 45.5cm (18in)

SLEEPING BAG BACKarmpit 30.5cm (12in) width

51cm (20in) lengthTotal length 68.5cm (27in)

bottom 45.5cm (18in)

ZIP COVER

LARGE

ELEPHANT

EARS

MEDIUM

ELEPHANT

EARS

LARGE

CIRCLE

MEDIUM

CIRCLE

SMALL

CIRCLE

SMALL

ELEPHANT

LARGE

ELEPHANT

SMALL

ELEPHANT

EARS

em seam allowance

PINCUSHION

(COPY AT 200%)

PHOTOBOOTH KIT

(COPY AT 200%)

MAKE IT

103 Craftseller


WorldMags.net



TO ADVERTISE IN OUR CRAFTSELLER STOREROOM

PLEASE CALL JANE HENDY ON

0117 314 8823 OR EMAIL

[email protected]

GENERAL CRAFTS

BEADS GENERAL CRAFTSCRAFT SHOP CRAFTING

For more details contact Jane Hendy

0117 314 8823

[email protected]

Advertise your Craft Workshops and Craft Courses in our next issue of

from as little as £45 + vat per month

www.thecraftroomonline.co.ukTel: 07749027634 Web: www.thebeadbase.co.uk

Unit 32, Basepoint Enterprise Centre, Stroudley Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 8UP

ZZZ�FUDIWGHSDUWPHQW�FRP

$�EUDQG�QHZ�ZHEVLWH�GHGLFDWHG�WR�

EULQJLQJ�\RX�WKH�EHVW�FUDIW�

PDWHULDOV�RQ�WKH�PDUNHW�

:LWK�RXU�6WLWFKLQJ��)HOW��%XWWRQ��5LEERQ��

(PEHOOLVKPHQW��$FFHVVRU\��'LVSOD\�DQG�/LJKWLQJ�

GHSDUWPHQWV��\RX�DUH�VXUH�WR�¿QG�HYHU\WKLQJ�\RX�QHHG�

www.pennineoutdoor.co.ukEmail: [email protected]

Tel: 01524 263377

www.pennineoutdoor.co.ukFAST MAILORDER SERVICE

SPECIALIST OUTDOOR FABRICS

s�4ECHNICAL�mEECE�s�"REATHABLE�WATER�RESISTANT�FABRICS�s�&ABRICS�FOR�BAGS�AND�COVERSs�,ARGE�RANGE�OF�BUCKLES��

HOOKS��AND�WEBBINGs�:IPS��THREAD��PATTERNS�ETC�

Cardmaking Supplies

For Every Occasion

Craft Creationswww.craftcreations.com

79 High Street, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset TA8 1PETel: 01278 794751

www.material-needs.co.uk

MATERIAL NEEDS

IES��

For Quality products at competitive prices

Wools Dress, patchwork and quilting fabrics

Cross stitchHaberdashery, ribbon, lace, braids

...and so much more

Classified advertising works…

0117 933 8024

[email protected]

to place your advert please contact Jane


WorldMags.net



http://www.thebeadbase.co.uk

http://www.thecraftroomonline.co.uk

http://www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk


http://www.craftcreations.com

http://www.material-needs.co.uk


http://www.craftdepartment.com

http://www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk

http://www.craftdept.com



Craftseller 105

8 PAGES of papercraft

papers

Data protection: Immediate Media Company Bristol Ltd (Publishers of Craftseller) would love to keep you informed by post or telephone of special offers and promotions from the Immediate Media Company Group. Please tick if you’d prefer not to receive these ❑

* Please enter this information so that Craftseller may keep you informed of newsletters, special offers and other promotions by email or text message. You may unsubscribe from these at any time.

Immediate Media Company Bristol Ltd will occasionally share data, on a secure basis, with other reputable companies who wish to contact you with information about their products and services. Please tick here if you do not wish to receive such information by post ❑ phone ❑ If you would like to receive information from our carefully selected partners by email please tick here ❑

Now post your order to:

FREEPOST RRJZ-HJKA-ZBCX, Craftseller, PO Box 326, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME9 8FAPlease allow up to 28 days for delivery. All prices inclusive of P&P.

BACK ISSUES ORDER FORM

Issue(s) Qty Total (£)

£

Item

Back issue – UK

Back issue – Europe

Back issue – Rest of World

Grand total

Non-subscriber

£6.35

£8.35

£9.35

Subscriber

£5.35

£7.35

£8.35

Your details: (please print clearly)

Mr / Mrs / Ms / Miss Name

Address

Country

Tel number (in case of queries)

Email address*

Postcode

Method of payment:

■ I enclose a cheque made payable to Immediate Media Company Bristol Ltd

(Please write your name and address on the back of the cheque)

OR, please debit my ■ Delta ■ Visa ■ MasterCard ■ Maestro

Card number:

■■■■ ■■■■ ■■■■ ■■■■ ■■■■

Valid from ■■ / ■■ Expiry date ■■ / ■■ Issue number ■

Signature Date

ISSUE 29FREE Make your own

Rudolph felt kit

ISSUE 30FREE Exclusive calendar

for 2014

ISSUE 31FREE Handmade Christmas

Gifts craft book

NEXT MONTH IN BACK ISSUES

Our February issue IS ON SALE FROM 16 JANUARY

Order online at buysubscriptions.com/craftseller

Call now on 0844 322 1236 Lines open weekdays 8am to 8pm and Saturday 9am to 1pm.

SUBSCRIBE TODAY TO CRAFTSELLER

Knit our funky

owl cushion!

Romantic hanging heart

Stitch these

cute love birds

23 projects to make you profit * Best-selling Valentine’s Day makes * FREE needle set and notepad

* Contents subject to change


WorldMags.net

http://buysubscriptions.com/craftseller



FAVOURITE MAKES

106 Craftseller

Fashion* We can’t wait to sport one of this season’s

biggest trends with this fox jumper!* Men’s organic sweater, Frankie the Fox

by BoodleBoutique, £30 on folksy.com

Home* Sweet and stylish, wooden alphabet blocks

bring a lovely vintage feel to a nursery.* Wooden alphabet blocks by JuliaStaite,

£15 on notonthehighstreet.com

Home* Nothing says ‘home’ like a handmade pic –

and we adore this appliqué scene. So cosy!* Framed appliqué and machine

embroidery picture of country cottage

by RubyPatch, £50 on etsy.com

Home * We plan to get our mitts on these

embroidered pieces for a quick and quirky décor update – *how* cute?!

* Megafauna, £95.50 by

MountRoyalMint on etsy.com

Accessories* Initial pendants are hugely popular and we

love the personal touch of these ones.* Hand embroidered initial necklace by

SamPGibson, £20 on etsy.com

Bakes * Yum! These gorgeous chocolates are too

delicious for sharing – just for us please!* Ginger and cappuccino chocolate

hearts by Lushleys, £6.10 on

notonthehighstreet.com

Online lovesHere are just some of our favourite makes from the exciting

designers and crafters we’ve discovered this month

Monogram gifts

are a hit all year,

so start stitching!


WorldMags.net

http://folksy.com

http://notonthehighstreet.com

http://etsy.com

http://etsy.com

http://etsy.com

http://notonthehighstreet.com




WorldMags.net

http://www.e-diffusers.co.uk



Go ahead… get creative!

For further information:

Telephone 0161 666 6011 or visit our website www.janome.co.uk

The World’s leading sewing machine manufacturer

Janome has a great range of machines to offer the very

best in computerised sewing.

Sewing difficult fabrics can get

really tricky even for the more

experienced. Janome machines

are reliable and robust and

tackle difficult fabrics with ease.

The Memory Craft 5900QC has

an incredible range of stitch

options… whilst the portable

Jem Platinum, DXL603 / QXL605

and TXL607 models are high

specification machines

at affordable prices.

JP760 A ¾ size machine that is light

enough to carry to classes, yet packed

with 60 stitches and full of computerised

features to make sewing easy.

TXL607 2XU�ÀUVW�PRGHO�ZLWK�DOSKDEHW�

& memory facilities. It has direct stitch

selection for the most useful stitches

and a handy panel for quick selection.

DXL603 :LWK�EXLOW�LQ�VWLWFKHV�IRU�TXLOWLQJ�

and heirloom as well as general sewing

this is an excellent all round machine.

Stitch selection and settings are so easy

on the large information LCD screen.

QXL605 All the features of the DXL603

EXW�ZLWK�DQ�DXWRPDWLF�EXLOW�LQ�WKUHDG�

cutter and advanced feeding system

for precise stitching.

MC5900QC This machine has

computerised precision and is packed

with over 500 stitches including 10

DXWR��VWHS�EXWWRQKROHV��7\SH�LQ�DQG�

HGLW�OHWWHULQJ�IURP��IXOO�DOSKDEHWV�DQG�

FUHDWH�FXVWRP�FRPELQDWLRQV�RI�XS�WR

��VWLWFKHV��LW·V�DOO�LQ�WKH�ÀQHU�GHWDLO�


WorldMags.net

http://www.janome.co.uk



craftseller_2014-01

Documents