BAKE IT Salted caramel brownies

CROCHET IT Cute Scottie dogs in tartan hats

SEW IT Soft & snuggly baby sleeping bag

best-selling craft trends

2014s

handmade
BEST-SELLERS FOR EASY PROFIT

86
WIN!
OVER 1250 WORTH OF PRIZES*

What a foxy fella!

MEET OUR FELT & FABRIC PLAYBOY
* COMPETITION UK ONLY

EXCLUSIVE

HOW TO

Ideas for the new year!

UPCYCLED SHEET MUSIC CLOCK STYLISH KNITTED CLUTCH BAG PRETTY CLUSTER JEWELLERY

12 STEPS TO SUCCESS

START MAKING & SELLING IN 2014

Real life

TV LAUNCHED MY CRAFTY CAREER!

HOW REJECTION FROM DRAGONS DEN BOOSTED CRAFTER KATE SMITHS BUSINESS...

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

PAGE FLAG

WorldMags.net

Welcome
72
Sheet music makes are fab sellers and easy to personalise

COVER

f 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 nances 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 2014s 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 nally, were 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!

16

Meet our post-party, felt and fabric fox! How very suave

ZEENA MOOLLA EDITOR

44
Bake our delicious Peek-a-boo Battenberg

74
Knit this gorgeous, deep red clutch bag

30

Cute Scottie dogs with tartan touches? Happy Hogmanay!

3 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

Craftseller 3

PAGE FLAG 50

WorldMags.net

this Look at gorgeous months rs! e free pap

Contents
January 2014
72 62 22

OVER 0
125

ZES OF PRII TO W N!
PAGE 68

74

84

Projects
16
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 Years 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

44

27

46

28

47

30

50

34

62

Chequerboard cake Amaze and astound buyers with a sweet surprise inside this bake Parmesan and rosemary biscuits The perfect party nibble thatll leave guests and shoppers wanting more Salted caramel brownies 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 babys sleeping bag

72

74

84

92

94

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 prot! More ways than one These cluster jewellery designs are super-stylish yet easy to do

4 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

BE AN INSIDER WorldMags.net

We 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 ll out the short registration survey and well 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.

Subscribe to the digital edition

Turn to page 40 for your special offer!
40

16

Features
8
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 Smiths Dragons Den appearance helped her business

38

10

48

12

68

15

70

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

89

98

100

106

Ask us! Let our experts solve your craftselling 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

e Turn to page 102 for thos all-important templates

Craftseller 5

WorldMags.net

DESIGNERS

WorldMags.net
A SPECIAL MENTION TO
Editor Zeena Moolla Editorial Assistant Beth Collins Art Editor Lisa Jones Publisher Alison Worthington Publishing Director Cath Potter Managing Director Andy Marshall Advertisement Director Caroline Herbert Senior Advertising Manager Jane Hendy Advertising Designer Catherine Howlett Production Director Sarah Powell Production Managers Rose Griffiths and Louisa Molter Marketing Director Jacky Perales-Morris Direct Marketing Manager Penny Clapp Marketing Executive Lucy Osmond Reprographics Tony Hunt, Chris Sutch Photography Louise Broom, Ally Stuart, Steve Sayers Distribution Frontline Printed 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. Its 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 anothers copyright. Immediate Media Company Limited is working to ensure that all of its paper is sourced from well-managed forests.

Contributors
Meet 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 nd moulds and all of your soap making ingredients you need at thesoapkitchen.co.uk.

Kate Smith
Read about Kates 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 its also why she wrote Makery, lled 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 Susannes gorgeous clutch bag, complete with pretty bow!
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.

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

6 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

COVER GIFT

Your free gift!

Find out how to put this months free needle collection to good use in your projects

A short needle with a small round eye enables quick and even stitching which is useful for quilting

Use a thin needle with a small eye for threading and stringing beads for jewellery or embellishments

A needle with a large eye and a blunt end is the perfect tool for tapestry and cross stitch embroidery projects

4 8
A thick needle with a sharp triangular end is ideal when youre sewing tougher fabrics such as leather

Large, sharp needles are ideal for looser weaves and smaller sharp needles are better for tighter weaves

5 7
A big, long needle with a long eye is very useful when youre repairing and darning items of clothing

If youre working on hat making, pleating or appliqu projects, use a long needle with a round eye

A curved needle makes tricky seams on items such as lampshades easier to sew together

Craftseller 7
WorldMags.net

CRAFTY UPDATE

WorldMags.net

Making news
Welcome to your one-stop shop for all the latest craft trends, dates and celebs

SUPER SITES
Our pick of the best from the world of online this month
PHOTO: BBC

3
1 2 3

things we can learn from designer

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.

BESPOKE REVIVAL

Paul Smith
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.

mission Want to increase your com one of the work? Then sign up to be okee.co.uk. makers at fab new site besp

He takes classic designs and gives them his own unique twist. Describing his style as Saville Row meets Mr Bean during his recent appearance on BBC2s The Culture Show, everything he creates incorporates a playful surprise.

Paul, 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!

ool! Crochet is c s We love thi at retro design .uk .co naturalmat

Kick-start your year!

If youve got big ideas but not a big bank balance, its 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.

Visit Londons Design Museum before 9th March to see Pauls 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.

8 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

PHOTO: Folksy

WorldMags.net

CRAFTY UPDATE

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

H
PHOTO: BBC

Sew-long 2013!

appy New Year craft-sellers! With all the festive excitement and lastminute orders, were betting that some of you will have missed the Great British Sewing Bee Christmas special, but dont panic! The six-part series 2 is due to hit our screens in April, so watch this space for the latest gossip. Heres to a sew-inspiring 2014!

PIECE OF CAKE
CAKE DESIGNER Beth Mottershead of Cakes by Beth has a real are

Talent
SPOT

e of See mor igns at es Beths d th.co.uk! e cakesbyb

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!

TOP TREND TOP TREND TOP TREND TOP TREND TOP TREND TOP TREND
Earrings: coldlilies.com; ribbon: oliverbonas.com; plate: marksand spencer.com; jumper: whitestuff.com; model image: east.co.uk

CITRINE BRIGHTS
IF EVER THERES A TIME we want a bit of colour in our lives its January! So it goes without saying that were 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?

Craftseller 9
WorldMags.net

LETTERS

WorldMags.net

Dear Craftseller
Send us your latest crafting and selling stories each issue, the star letter wins a fantastic Abakhan prize!
Joanne h been put as tin free pap g our ers good use to !

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!

CRAFTY BLOG
FUTUREGIRL.COM

LORNA NICE, ELGOL PRIMARY

Ed: Halloween might be over but, Elgol Primary School, youve denitely spooked the Craftseller team with your creepy creations! Well done.
The kids at Elgol Primary have been busy getting creative

This is a really useful blog for knitters and crocheters, although Alice Merlino dabbles with embroidery amd hand or machine sewing so theres something for everyone! I love the way Alice uses colour, theres nothing like a beautiful skein of yarn!

We love this loopy paper wreath itd be perfect for Christmas!

ROSIE WINTERS, DUBLIN

It struck me
IVE BEEN BUYING YOUR magazine since it
started and I nd the articles a great inspiration. Im 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 dont 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.

Sew inspired
I HAVE RECENTLY SUBSCRIBED to your
fab magazine. The rst 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 its my me time.

JOANNE CAMPBELL, DAISYMAKES.ME.UK

Ed: This is such a fun and clever idea, Joanne. We love the way the hanger is included!

EMMA HORABIN, LANCASHIRE.

Ed: Your bunting looks brilliant, thanks for sending us a photo, Emma.

Emma made the bunting featured in our Christmas issue

10 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

LETTERS

SELLING INSPIRATION

LETTER

Star

Deborah had to adapt her design after losing her yarn on the train!

CRAFTY TALK
Here are some of our favourite posts and tweets this month

MY DAUGHTER HAS JUST bought me your wonderful magazine she is trying to encourage me to sell my work, as I havent had much luck yet selling any. I usually just give my creations away but after reading your magazine Im inspired to keep on trying.

AGNES AT ACY CREATIONS, ON FACEBOOK

Ed: Your makes are very cute so its great to hear that youre persevering with the help of Craftseller. Let us know how you get on.

Reading @CraftsellerMag whilst eating homemade soup. Perfect lunch time :)

@CRAFT_ME_PRETTY

What a hoot!
WORKING AWAY FROM HOME, I often while away

Bunnies and reindeers, inspired by @CraftsellerMag, were a big hit on our stall!

@LIZZYANDKIMMY

Agnes stitches cute characters like Marvin the mouse

Star letter prize!

This month our star letter writer wins 50 worth of vouchers to spend on abakhan.co.uk

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 Id 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 t 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!

Had a fab day at #christmascrafts! Even got my subscription for @CraftsellerMag!

@PRINCESSLUCE14

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?

Thank you to @CraftsellerMag for the lovely feature on me in the Nov issue!

We love Janets on-trend mosaic fox

@RACHTDESIGN

@CraftsellerMag packing gifts sold on my website milliesmarket. co.uk, #cwtch

JANET DANIELS, JUBES ORIGINALS, ON FOLKSY

Ed: We love your fox Janet, and with the woodland trend continuing hell be popular with shoppers, too! Turn to p79 to see what other trends are big for 2014

@MILLIESMARKET

Search for Craftseller on facebook.com

@craftsellermag

yourletters@ craft-seller.com

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

Craftseller 11
WorldMags.net

PIN IT
1

WorldMags.net

Tartan
6

Use super soft plaid and Celtic character to give your makes a cosy, country feel this winter

10

12 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net
14
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 ight 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

13

15

12

11

17

16

Craftseller 13
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Space & Performance

The Innov-is V5 has the space to create impressive quilting and embroidery.
Enjoy the extra large 11 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.

Scotland
A Coates Sewing Machine Unit Borders TD14 5DH David Drummond Edinburgh EH12 5HD ESC Keith AB55 5HF Karelia House Ltd Perthshire PH15 2LS N J Sewing Polmont FK2 0UF Pembertons Sewing Machines Stirling FK8 1HA Quilt Creations Inverness IV1 1EP 01890 750349 0131 5397766 01542 887000 01887 822027 01324 711333 01786 462993 01463 719369

North East
Singer Sewing Centre Whitley Bay NE26 2SY Tullys Sewing Machines Sunderland SR1 3JG The Fat Quarters Newcastle upon Tyne NE17 7TN 0191 2525825 0191 5657995 01207 565728 0151 677 7755 0161 707 7786 01254 693555 0161 7644450 01254 389171 01254 52063 01228 599880 01524 261868 01539 565800

North West
Affordable Sewing Wirrall CH46 9QA Bamber Sewing Machines Ltd Eccles M30 7HY Hobkirks Sewing Machines Ltd Blackburn BB2 2AJ Hobkirks Sewing Machines Ltd Bury BL9 0LQ Lords Sew Knit Centre Accrington BB5 3DE R&T Machines (Domestic Sales) Blackburn BB1 2AL Superior Sewing Centre Cumbria CA3 8PW Temptations Lancaster LA2 7HQ The Quilted Sheep Ltd Cumbria LA7 7PN

Yorkshire & Humberside

Gillies Fabrics York YO1 8SW Grimsby Sewing & Knitting Grimsby DN32 9DR Howdens Sewing Machines Hudderseld HD1 6BL Sewing Machines and Crafts(Crafts Upstairs) Keighley BD21 1AD UK Sewing Machines & Fabrics Durham DL3 7JY Woodseats Sewing Machines Ltd Shefeld S8 0RY 01904 626244 01472 343921 01484 516700 01535 609466 01325 463630 0114 255 2822

Midlands
Brewers Wolverhampton WV2 3AF Couling Sewing Machines Lincoln LN5 8AW Creative Hands 2 Worcester WR1 2LU DC Nutt Sewing Machines Walsall WS3 3SS E L Grain Nottingham NG6 8UY F L Nutt Sewing Machines Birmingham B14 7AA GUR Enterprise (UK) Ltd Birmingham B19 3QN L & M Nutt Sewing Machines Birmingham B73 5BS Leamington Spa Sewing Machines Ltd Leamington Spa CV32 4RA Sewing Machine Centre Shrewsbury SY1 1XJ The Haberdashers Hub Ltd Nuneaton CV11 4AD 01902 458885 01522 521841 01905 24940 01922 497603 0115 927 1155 0121 444 3978 0121 3597440 0121 3735497 019264 27572 01743 343902 02476 384440

East Anglia
Beccles Sewing Machines Beccles NR34 9TB Bedford Sew & Knit Limited Bedford MK41 7LE Franklins Group Limited Colchester C02 7DU Franklins Group Limited Ipswich IP1 3EL Franklins Group Limited Chelmsford CM2 0LG Sew Creative Cambridge CB1 1LD Sew Creative Bury St Edmonds Bury St Edmonds IP33 1NE Sew Creative Norwich Norwich NR3 1LE Sew Northampton Northampton NN1 4DX 01502 714234 01234 217096 01206 563955 01473 221188 01245 346300 01223 350691 01284 755459 01603 305888 01604 637200

Wales
J & B Sewing Machine Co Ltd Newport NP19 4SY Sewing Machine Direct Wrexham LL12 0PJ 01633 284646 08000 925215

South East
Art of Sewing Eastleigh SO50 5LD Ashford Sewing Centre Ashford TN23 1JH Brighton Sewing Centre Brighton BN1 1YD C & A Sewing Machines Ltd Cranleigh GU6 8NE CCB Sewing Machines Rochester ME1 1HS Cooper Sewing Machines Ltd Borehamwood WD6 1FJ Dowlings Wickford SS11 8YJ Fabrications Hackney E8 4PH Fareham Sewing Fareham PO16 0EH GTS Sewing Machines Banbury OX16 9PQ Lewisham & Deptford S/Mcs London SE8 3NT Maidstone Sewing Centre Maidstone ME14 1ED Regent Sewing and Knitting Ltd Ilford IG1 2AG Rona Sewing Machines Waltham Cross EN8 7BX Sew Devine Reading RG6 1JQ The Sewing Centre Battersea SW11 3BP The Sewing Shop Canterbury CT1 2HX Theobalds Luton LU1 5AA Tysons Sewing Machines Ltd Southall UB1 3DA Tysons Sewing Machines Ltd Hounslow TW3 1NW Woking Sewing & K/M Centre Woking KT15 3NY 02380 650808 01233 620948 01273 621653 01483 267777 01634 841597 0208 2361520 01268 562022 0207 2758043 01329 234641 01295 701384 0208 692 1077 01622 670254 0208 4780669 01992 640250 0118 926 8664 0207 2283022 01227 457723 01582 720332 0208 5741750 0208 5706790 01932 352958

Experience the V5 for yourself at your local Brother dealer.

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

South West
Cafe Crafts Weston Super Mare BS24 6SE Direct Sewing Machines Redruth TR15 2DY Exeter Sewing Machine Company Exeter EX1 2LD Franklins Group Limited Salisbury SP2 7SU The Stitch Academy Taunton TA1 1NZ Bredons Taunton TA1 3NB 01934 838327 01209 216942 01392 275660 01722 554466 07547 006618 01823 272450

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

G<CDD=B;

Stash it!
Inspiring ideas for your crafty makes

<iff]WUbY6Yffm?`cbU Cotton Fat Quarter6ibX`Y %' VUW_gh]hW\"Wc"i_Difd`YRibbon Rosesk]h\8]UaUbh %"--  YUgmcf]ghgidd`]Yg"Wc"i_GdUf_`]b[Difd`YRoyal Icing Flowers k]h\G]`jYf8fU[YY7YbhYf +"+) 7idWU_YgVmW\f]ghmcbYhgm"Wca

Gtermann Cotton Variegated Machine Embroidery Thread Pack]b6Yffm %("-) ;hYfaUbb4ghcW_]ghYbei]f]Yg"Wc"i_8UaUg_Difd`Y Velvet FabricK]h\DYUf`G]`jYfDf]bh]b[ *",) :UVf]WAUfhcbYhgm"WcaDifd`YAdhesive Stones %$(dWg %")$ XcWfUZhg"Wca

WIN IT! ON
PAGE 68
Silver Nugget Pearl Strand ) gdc]`hfchhYbVYUXg"Wc"i_AYhU``]W9aVfc]XYfmk]h\7fmghU`gcbOrgandie Trim +"-- amZUVf]W\cigY"Wc"i_ ;`]hhYfUbXHcmgUZYDifd`YPainters Touch Brush ("--UbX:fYbW\@]`UWPainters Touch Spray ,"-- fighc`YiagdfUmdU]bh "Wca

NOW

Craftseller 15
WorldMags.net

FELT IT

WorldMags.net

Fantastic Mr Fox
The 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

A MAKEI T !
PROF
0.50 1 MAKEFOR

FOR 45

16 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

COVER

star

WorldMags.net

FELT IT

WorldMags.net

How to make the felt fox

INFORMATION
Materials * Orange/brown felt 60 x 60cm (24 x 24in) * White felt 8 x 4cm (3 x 2in) * Light grey felt 14 x 7cm (5 x 2in) * Red and white polka dot cotton fabric 24 x 10cm (9 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 (in) plastic amber teddy eyes * 31cm (13in) length of white 1.5mm elastic cord * One 9mm (in) black plastic button * Matching sewing thread * Polyester toy lling * Fabric glue * Foam pad * Felting needles, sizes 38 and 40 Size: 36cm (14in) height, 18cm (7in) width including tail, 11cm (4in) deep including tail Rating: Moderate

Cutting out the templates All templates include a 0.5cm (in) 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 lling 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.

our customers are sure to be enticed by this foxy lothario hes so full of character with his slightly dishevelled style and suave expression! He would look perfect as a decoration at a New Years Eve party, especially displayed in the hallway so hes the rst thing guests see when they arrive. This make has a lot of detail and with a combination of sewing, gluing and needlefelting, its 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.

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 lling, as shown above.

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 uffy end. Stab this until it creates a solid ball and leave the end uffy. Place the ball onto the end of the nose and stab the uffy 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 at.

2 Sew the inside and outside legs together leaving the top open. Stuff with toy lling. Sew the legs onto the torso and nish lling the legs as you do so. Sew the tail shapes together and ll with toy stufng. 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

2 Fold both short sides of the shirt collar shape about 0.5cm (in) in and iron at. Fold the collar shape in half along the long

18 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net
TOP TIP
Stab the needle-felted areas again after you've nished the fox as he tends to get a bit uffy!

FELT IT

Turn inside out and iron at and sew the gap closed. Attach the collar to the jacket using a small amount of fabric glue.

edge and iron at. 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.

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.

Cocktail glass 1 Using an overstitch, sew the long sides of the stem together and lightly stuff with toy lling. 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 lling 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.

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 at. Wrap the bow tie round the foxs 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 (in) in and iron at. Then fold the long sides into the middle so they overlap and iron at. Using fabric glue, stick it together and stick it in place on the jacket front shape so it covers the bottom of the handkerchief.

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 at. 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 lling. 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 (in) in and sew in place. On the back trouser shape, where the slit is, fold the aps back to form a V shape and sew in place.

2 Sew each pair of the pocket 2 shapes together using the sewing machine and leave the top open. Turn inside out and iron at. Turn the top edges in, iron at 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 at. Sew the neck and the tails of the two jacket back shapes together. Turn inside out and iron at. 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.

2 Fold over the top of each trouser shape about 15mm (in) 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.

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/freedownloads for advice on child safety.

Craftseller 19
WorldMags.net

SELL IT

WorldMags.net

Youve made it, now sell it

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

Create a backstory. This cheeky fox has seen some things, so make up an exciting life for him on your shop page.

2 3 4 5 6

Use your stash to save cash! Yarn scraps or even old fabric scraps make great, free toy stufng.

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. Blow your own trumpet! Felting and sewing all take skill so mention this in the item's description.

Strike a pose. Photograph your fox in a series of party scenarios for a range of fun product images. Create a fashionable fox. Adapt the pattern to create a luxe velvet smoking jacket or smart tartan coat.

7 8 9 10

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 nger.

Vary 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. Expand your range. Once condent creating this fox, consider making other woodland creatures to join him in his merry-making! Keep sewing neat and tidy. With lots of stitches on show be sure to use good quality thread to give a smart, clean nish.

NOW SELLING ON...

Folksy: Fergal Fox by Mrs Fox Handmade, 20

Folksy: Fox brooch by Automation, 10

Etsy: Felt fox ornament by theladybirdtree, 4

20 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

REAL LIFE

WorldMags.net

TV helped launch my crafty career

Kate Smith quit her job to set up a craft shop, and shes never been happier. Just dont mention Dragons Den By Karen Dunn

ucked away down a small street in the heart of Baths historic city centre is a shop that would send any crafters heart autter. 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 rst craft business. Its 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 BBC2s 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 stu, but as I got older it became less fullling and I realised it wasnt what I wanted any more. Nigel and I got married and decided we wanted to move and start up our own business, but we didnt know what we wanted to do! At rst 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

stu. It seemed so obvious Id 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 Id 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

I was taking my daughter Lyra to meetings and having her sleep under my desk!
thought we were completely crazy, but Ive always liked proving people wrong! Wed 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 rst 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 rst 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 Id realised I couldnt do it all myself and got in some fantastic tutors to take the strain. However, for that rst year I barely had a day o work and nearly had another breakdown when I realised, with just weeks to go, that I didnt 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 ights to Japan and we spent a week in Japans Fabric Town. They have whole department stores just for craft. It was heaven! I made tons of contacts and came back with ve 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 wasnt great and I handed in my nal work to the publishers just ten hours before I gave birth to our second daughter!

22 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

Photos: Tim Mossford/UNP

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

REAL LIFE

WorldMags.net
Kates top three tips for running a craft business
Plan ahead
We spent a year working on our business plan and have always known what weve 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 were always preparing for whats happening next so I can start working on it.

Get help
The biggest lesson for me was accepting that I couldnt do all the work myself. You need other people to support you, whether thats staff for the shop or accountants for the money side of things. If we hadnt decided to ask people in to help we would never have developed the business and Nigel and I would have just burnt ourselves out.

Dont waste time worrying about the competition

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!

Keep it different and dont 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 theres tons, but I refuse to look at what others are doing I just concentrate on my own ideas and suppliers.

Then, in February this year, Dragons Den contacted us and asked if we had a project wed consider coming on the show with. Wed been working on some new craft kits and, feeling very attered, 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 didnt 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 wed 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 couldnt stop crying! The programme wasnt 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

Thanks to Dragons Den, weve had loads of new opportunities

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 horric experience, but thanks to Dragons Den weve been approached about loads of new opportunities.

2014 is looking exciting for us were 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. Itll also be a place where they can get inspiration and advice for their next projects. I know it sounds clichd, but I feel like Im 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. Its been hard, but its the best thing we could have done.

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 Kates cute mouse pincushion.

24 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

www.silversewing.co.uk
For your nearest stockist and expert advice, please contact Silver Viscount on 01933 311888 or enquiries@silverviscount.co.uk
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net
A MAKEI T !
PROF
3 MAKE FOR

MAKE IT

FOR 6

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

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

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.
1

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

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

Craftseller 27
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

STITCH IT

A MAKEI T !
PROF
6 MAKE FOR

FO R 2 0

Wear your heart...

Woo passers-by with this simple stitched heart its a perfect Valentines Day love token. By Sarah Heys How to make the cross stitch brooch
Find 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.

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 (1in) diameter Skil level: moderate

HEART CHART

Trim your stitching so that it is 4cm (1in) 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 at in the brooch back if not, you may need to trim it in the middle a little bit.

ttt ttt ttttt ttttt ttt ttt ttt ttt tt t ttttt t tt t t t t t t t t tt t t t t t tt ttt t t t t ttt ttt t t t ttt ttt t t ttt ttt t ttt ttt ttt ttttt ttt t

Cover the inside of the brooch setting with glue and place the covered button into the brooch setting and leave to set.

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 Valentines 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 nish.

Cover the brooch back in glue and stick onto the back of the brooch, making sure it is central. Leave to dry.

HEART KEY
Cross stitch in two strands DMC Anchor Madeira Colour t 777 43 509 red

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

Craftseller 29
WorldMags.net

SEW IT

WorldMags.net

Keep up with the tweed trend by offering these stylish wrist warmers theyll appeal to fashion-lovers everywhere. By Emma Read

Tweed twist

A MAKEI T !
PROF
7 MAKE FOR

F O R 15

30 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

SEW IT

WorldMags.net

SEW IT

WorldMags.net

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 (10 x 4in) Skill level: Easy

hese 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 ngers 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, theyll 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 youll lower your outlay costs dramatically. Always a bonus!

How to make the wrist warmers

Cut two pieces of main fabric, measuring 24 x 27cm (9 x 10in) from tweed, and two lining pieces, measuring 30 x 27cm (11 x 10in) from fur fabric.

edge. Sew a running stitch along the pinned edge. Turn the right way round. Using 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.

TOP TIP
Dont choose fur thats too thick or your customers will struggle to get them on and off

Lay 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).

With the tweed on top, fold the two layers in half and pin along the longest

Sew 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.

SHOW US ON FACEBOOK! If youve 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! Weve got loads of crafty inspiration for you to browse at Pinterest.com/craftseller

32 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

MAKE IT

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net
A MAKEI T !
PROF
R MAKE FO H C A 38p E

MAKE IT

FOR 3.99 EACH

Scrub-a-dub-dub!
This simple, scented handmade soap made from alphabet letter moulds will be perfect for birthday or Valentine sales. By Kirsty Pedlingham
oap-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 prot 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 owers to suit your style and your shoppers' tastes. To sell, wrap in a cellophane bag and tie with pretty ribbon or twine.

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 (2 x 2in) each letter Skill level: Easy

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

How to make your alphabet soap

Measure 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.

Add 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, lling to the top.

Cool the soap completely, remove it from the mould(s) and wrap to sell.

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 nished soap looks edible, it will need to be labelled DO NOT EAT if it is going to be sold.

Craftseller 35
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

is now available on iPad and iPhone

SUBSCRIBE FROM JUST

15.99

To nd out more just search Craftseller on the App Store PLUS were now online! Visit www.craft-seller.com

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Free patterns and instructions online, kits from just 3.95! Scan me!
Fair Trade Kazuri Beads 1.95

Tools & Pliers 5.50

Semi-Precious Chips from 2.50

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

WorldMags.net

SELL IT

WorldMags.net

monthly business plan

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

My 2014

By Verity Gough

Wooden oral buttons look great on spring crafts

s a busy crafter there are always things you need to do to make the best use of your time and to make sure you dont miss all-important events and holidays. Whether its hitting deadlines, making the most of the festive season or marking down important national dates, our yearly planner is essential reading

February
Love is in the air and its 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 Mothers Day projects by using and adapting your Valentines makes, says Stef Stern of Mother Goose (mothergooseonline.co.uk).

January
Any small business owner knows that as New Year looms, so does the taxman. If you havent done a paper tax return in October, you need to le your online version by 31st January, and theres no better time to do it than during the postChristmas lull. You just cant compete with high-street sales, so dont. Take the time to relax, then start making for Valentines 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.

Spend January preparing for Valentines Day

March
With Easter fast approaching, seek inspiration for the coming trends by reading fashion and craft magazines and blogs. Nows 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 prots 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.

38 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

SELL IT

Movember is a popular time for moustache makes!

September
Its 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 Bobs 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, fullment, and marketing. The business will grow and youll still be doing the bit you enjoy, adds Emma.

June
Fairs, ftes and festivals are popping up everywhere so plan which shows you want to attend. Many food festivals and farmers markets are booked months in advance, so let organisers know you want a stall as soon as you can. If youre offering something unusual youve a much better chance of securing a stand in the more popular events, advises Bruce.

October
Halloween is a great opportunity to earn some money and as it falls at the end of the month, you can start making in the rst week or two. I try to t 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.

Create unique items to secure bookings at popular summer fairs

July April
Wedding season kicks off this month and its 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. While 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 avours. Your shoppers will start buying in November, advises Bruce. Nows the time to start making appointments with trade buyers to show them your autumn/winter fashion collection, adds Alison.

November
Christmas 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 Stef.

May
This month is a good one for snifng out trends that will cross over into crafting. For those making fashion or accessory items trade, its 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.

August
By 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 Ofce size and weight charges. Beautiful packaging and affordable postal charges = a very happy customer!

December
Make 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!

Craftseller 39
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Textile, jewellery & paper craft supplies plus some lovely gifts - arent we fancy!

Visitors welcome by appointment at The Craft Room in Nottingham

)RURXUIXOOSURGXFWUDQJHVHDUFK3LSSLQ.LWV RQ$PD]RQFRXNRUYLVLW3LSSLQNLWVFRP

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

BAKE IT

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

New Year nibbles!

We love...
Baking sweet and savoury party treats

WorldMags.net

BAKE IT

WorldMags.net

any 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, youll make a tasty prot. Salted caramel is really popular, so dont 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 thats rich, sweet and creamy. Serve as a dessert, with zzing sparklers, amid poppers a-popping!

Chocolate buttercream chequerboard cake

INGREDIENTS
For the white sponge: * 225g (8oz) self-raising our * 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 our * 225g (8oz) soft butter * 225g (8oz) caster sugar * 85g (3oz) ground almonds * 3 large eggs, lightly beaten * 1 tsp vanilla extract * 2 tbsp milk * Pink gel food colouring For the lling and buttercream: * 1 220g (8oz) jar apricot glaze * 1 tbsp lemon juice * 300g (10oz) soft butter * 650g (23oz) icing sugar * 200g (7oz) white chocolate * 1 tsp vanilla extract Special equipment: * Electric whisk or freestanding mixer * 25cm (10in) cake board * 2 x 18cm (7in) sandwich tins * Piping bag with medium plain tip

Combine 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 ve minutes then turn onto a rack to cool completely. Repeat for pink sponge. Wrap the cooled sponges in cling lm and leave overnight to rm up.

For 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.

Trim the sponges to atten the tops. Cut a 12cm (4in) round from the centre of each sponge, then cut a 6cm (2in) circle from the middle of that. You now have 18cm and 12cm rings, plus a 6cm circle.

Heat the glaze so it is easily spreadable. Add lemon juice. Place a 18cm (7in) white sponge ring on the cake board. Place a 12cm (4in) pink ring inside, followed by a 6cm (2in) white circle. Top with a quarter of the apricot glaze. On top of this, place a pink 18cm (7in) ring, add a 12cm (4in) white ring inside, followed by a 6cm (2in) pink circle. Spread the top with apricot glaze. Repeat to stack all four sponges.

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

Time taken: 2.5 hours (plus overnight) Makes: 1 cake (cuts into 16-20 slices) Skill level: Moderate

Heat oven to 160C, 140C Fan, Gas Mark 3. Grease the sides, well and line the bases of the round sandwich tins with baking parchment.

Spread buttercream thinly over the cake; chill for 30mins. To make the petal pattern, t 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.

44 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

BAKE IT

MAKE FOR 8
FOR 15

Craftseller 45
WorldMags.net

BAKE IT

WorldMags.net

MAKE 0
FOR 1.5

Parmesan and rosemary shortbreads

INGREDIENTS
For the shortbreads * 150g plain our * 75g nely 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

9 4.9 OX
A B

FOR

Mix 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 briey. Split into two and roll each half into a cylinder approximately 3cm (1in) wide. Wrap each cylinder in cling lm 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.

Preheat the oven to 180C, 350F Gas Mark 4. Remove the dough cylinders from the fridge and cut into slices approximately 0.5cm (in) 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.

Remove 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.

SELL MORE
Leave out a dish of seconds to let your shoppers try a biscuit before they buy a whole box

46 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

BAKE IT

MAKE FOR 6

Salted caramel brownies

INGREDIENTS
For the brownies: * 225g (8oz) butter * 250g (9oz) plain chocolate, chopped * 3 eggs * 1 tsp instant espresso powder (optional) * 250g (8oz) caster sugar * 85g (3oz) plain our * 1 tsp baking powder * 150g (5oz) milk chocolate chips For the salted caramel sauce: * 125g (4oz) caster sugar * 85ml (3 oz) double cream * tsp table salt * 1 tsp vanilla extract * Sea salt, for sprinkling Time: 1 hours Makes: 25 squares Skill level: Easy

5 FOR 1.2 RE
PER SQUA

water and bring to a boil over a high heat. Cook for four to ve 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. Once 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.

SELL MORE
When youre cutting your brownies, clean your knife regularly to make sure the sides look neat

Preheat the oven to 180C, 160C fan, Gas Mark 4. Line a tin or disposable foil tray of approximately 23 x 30cm (9 x 12in) with baking parchment.

Melt 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 our and baking powder, followed by the chocolate chips. Spread evenly into the prepared tin and bake for 30-35mins.

While the brownies are cooling, make the salted caramel sauce. Place the caster sugar in a saucepan with 4 tbsp of

Craftseller 47
WorldMags.net

GOOD CAUSES

WorldMags.net

Charity bakes
Bake some delicious festive eats and treats this month to help raise some cash for these three great charities

SuperJam Tea Parties

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, shed make scones and

Enjoy afternoon tea with elderly people in your area

The biggest parties have attracted over 600 guests

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.

How you can help

Love jam? Bake some scones for a charity tea party

Visit superjamteaparties.com or email fraser@superjam.co.uk if youd like more information or to get involved.

48 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

GOOD CAUSES

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home

Start the New Year by lending a paw to help our furry friends at Battersea If you love animals, then make it your New Years 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 youre wondering how you can help, then it really couldnt be easier. Organise

Your bakes will help cute pooches in need

a cake sale in your community and invite everyone along to enjoy a cuppa and a cupcake in return for a donation. Its 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!

How you can help

For more information on Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, visit battersea.org.uk or call 0870 890 0000.

The Teapot Trust

Warm 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 Trusts 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

Bake to help sick children create and communicate

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.

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

How you can help

Visit teapot-trust.org or email info@teapot-trust.org for more information.

Craftseller 49
WorldMags.net

MAKE IT

WorldMags.net

A MAKEI T !
PROF
50P MAKE FOR

FOR 3-4

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

Thanks loads!
How to make the thank you card
Cut 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.

INFORMATION
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. Pick four or ve assorted buttons from your stash and stick them onto the bunting string using a glue gun.

Glue 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.

Stick the birds wing to the bird using a small sticky pad, then stick the bird

Using a ne 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.

ards 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 weve come up with two quick-to-make designs to get you started.

50 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

8 PAGES

of exclusive designs

Party Season
PAPER COLLECTION

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Party Season
PAPER COLLECTION

WorldMags.net

Party Season
PAPER COLLECTION

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Party Season
PAPER COLLECTION

WorldMags.net

Party Season
PAPER COLLECTION

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Party Season
PAPER COLLECTION

WorldMags.net

Party Season
PAPER COLLECTION

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Party Season
PAPER COLLECTION

WorldMags.net

MAKE IT

A MAKEI T !
PROF
1 MAKE FOR

FOR 3-4

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
Cut a piece of the damask paper to t the front of the card exactly. Carefully line up the edges and glue into place.

Cut out a stags head shape using the template on p102. Using the rst one as a guide, cut another stags head shape, slightly larger all round, from black card. Cut out the Happy new year sentiment and a rectangle of contrasting paper.

Trim and glue the sentiment to the contrasting rectangle and glue them to the card at the bottom left corner.

Glue the stag head shapes together. Place sticky pads onto the back of the nished layers and glue onto the card. Use the stag head to overlap the sentiment slightly, as shown in the photo.

Craftseller 59
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

plus Cardmaking, Sewing, Knitting, Stamping Sugarcraft, Cross Stitch and Quilting with Workshops, Demonstrations and Make & Takes

PAPERCRAFT BEADING & STITCH

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

SandownParkRacecourse

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

MalvernShowground
27th FEBRUARY-1st MARCH 2014
Thursday, Friday & Saturday: 10am-5pm

Go to www.sccshows.co.uk or call 01822 617744 and quote CMP . Tickets cost 6.50 Adults and 5.50 Concessions (8 & 7 on-the-door).

SAVE 1.50 & NO Booking Fee!

t ow a h s t s re r nea u o y find

.uk o c . s w o h s c sc
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

SEW IT

WorldMags.net

Mummy makes
Handmade for baby, theres nothing like a soft, downy sleeping bag to keep little ones cosy during the cold winter months. By Jane Tooze

A MAKEI T !
PROF
15.50 MAKE FOR

FOR 30

62 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

SEW IT

Craftseller 63
WorldMags.net

SEW IT

WorldMags.net

INFORMATION
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 (in) poppers (fronts and backs) * Popper pliers * Sewing machine * Scissors * Pins * Iron and ironing board Size: age 6-18 months Skill level: Easy

How to make the sleeping bag

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 nally 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
Not on the High Street Green Child on noths.com 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 appliqu 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.

et set for the chilly months with cosy items thatll 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 nights 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.

NOW SELLING ON...

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 residefabrics.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 re and safety regulations.

Etsy MoutonCerise on etsy.com

00 Craftseller 64
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

SEW IT

Craftseller 65
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

000 4 r e v O

tock s n i s yarn
DROPS Design

100g DK Sale!

! l l a b r pe 9 6 . 1
of olours Sirdar c t n e r e 00 diff DK and Over 1raft Special in stock. Stylec ld Bonus DK 00g ball Hayfie t 1.69 per 1 All jus

ton t o C e v l Creati1 a batl 9 7 . single colouriggheastt Just k b every ly the K!

b c We sto duce. Probaarns in the U o r y p Rico nge of Rico ra

S P O DR
nds o rns, Thousaochet patte ons r and c hooks, butt ck! s, to needle essories in s c c a and

ROPS st of Don i k c o t gest s sive selecti ! the lar ll s We are the UK! Ma1.40 per ba n i t s n u r j ya k from in stoc

oks o B & ns Patterles & Hooks Need f knitting

o www.w
V

olw

.co e s u o h are

.uk

10% F F O R H OUC E
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: yarn@woolwarehouse.co.uk Telephone: 01926 882 818 Freephone: 0800 505 3300

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

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

1250
OF PRIZES TO WIN

OVER

10 prizes
TO WIN!
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 name, address and email to 87474*

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*

HAVE 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 name, address and email to 87474*

BE TOY-SAFE The Rust-Oleum Painters Touch Brush range is gorgeous paint that meets the stringent requirements of European Union EN-71-3 toy safety standards for toys and childrens furniture. We have four cans of paint to give to ve lucky winners, worth 31.96! Visit rustoleumspraypaint.com To enter, text PAINT followed by your name, address and email to 87474*

KEEP 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

BE 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 name, address and email to 87474*

68 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

7 6
6 prizes
TO WIN!

WIN IT

SEEK IT OUT Seek It Outs new range of adult sewing project kits (21.50) for beginners to experts make beautiful vintage products, without the fuss and nancial 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 name, address and email to 87474*

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 ve 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 name, address and email to 87474*

STICK EM UP Whether youre selling face-to-face or posting your makes, we know that packaging is key. But you can have the prettiest paper and it wont 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 name, address and email to 87474*

* 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

Craftseller 69
WorldMags.net

CRAFT SELLERS DIARY

WorldMags.net

Diary of a craft selling mum

Every month, craft seller and mum of two, Erica Martyn, who makes toys for her business Odds & Soxlets, invites us into her world

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. Im still learning heaps, while at the same time juggling home life, nances, and the needs and demands of my growing family and my customers

Day 1
Lottie 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 Years 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.

Lottie loves sitting at her activity chair in Ericas work room

Day 4
Secured my third trade customer in as many weeks! I am thrilled because its great to have a big outlet for my makes but its something Ive always trodden carefully with. There are so many things to consider, such as can I still make a profit once theyve taken their cut?, will they purchase enough to make it worthwhile?, and are they reaching a target audience I wouldnt be able to get to?. One thing Im pretty sure I wouldnt want to do is massproduce my work. I dont like the thought of my work losing its identity or standards slipping. Handmade crafts are all about the personal touch and not production lines.

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 Years resolutions 1

Erica starts on Milo Monkey, the Movin Monkeez mascot toy

Day 5
Theres not much in life that I wont turn my hand to, but when it comes to tax returns my motto is, if you cant do it yourself, pay a man or a woman who can!. In my case, its my sister Sarah who helps me once Ive got all my paperwork sorted.

70 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

CRAFT SELLERS DIARY

suggested a black cat. Hes called Mr Binx, he was once a witchs 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 22
Ive 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. Its 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! Ill miss those days when theyre gone, so Im taking advantage now.

This Sock Giraffe is ready to be packaged up for a trade order

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 thats 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 Harrys 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 28
I 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!

Day 16
Erica puts her toys through their paces to get the CE mark

Keeping up-to-date with taxes is just too important to take any chances with.

Day 10
After nearly bursting with excitement, Im 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

I 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, youd 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 18
Ive been itching to use some rather funky black and white skull fabric, so Harry

Harrys tiger impression was pretty fearsome

Craftseller 71
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

UPCYCLE IT

A MAKEI T !
PROF
10 MAKE FOR

FOR 20

From junk to funk

An old vinyl record and some sheet music create perfect harmony to net you a good prot. By Claire Watkins How to make the sheet music clock
Arrange 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.

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

e 2014 m o c l e W in style!

Once the rst 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.

usic-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 prot, 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. Whats more, this stylish make is the perfect accessory to update almost any room, so therell 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.

Once the nal 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.

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

Give the whole clock a coat of waterproof clear varnish (test a small corner on the back rst to check for discolouration of the paper). When fully dry, attach the clock movement, following the instructions supplied.

Craftseller 73
WorldMags.net

KNIT IT

WorldMags.net

Bags of style
Buyers will love the vintage charm of this knitted clutch bag with its cute simple bow detail. By Susanne Frank

A MAKEI T !
PROF
MAKE FOR 20

FOR 35

74 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

KNIT IT

WorldMags.net

KNIT IT

WorldMags.net

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

(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 17: k2, sl1, k1, psso, k14, sl1, k1, psso, k16, k2tog, k14, k2tog, k2. 52sts. Row 19: k. Row 21: k2, sl1, k1, psso, k14, sl1, k1, psso, k12, k2tog, k14, k2tog, k2. 48sts. Row 23: k. Row 25: k2, sl1, k1, psso, k40, k2tog, k2. 46sts. Row 27: k16, sl1, k1, psso, k10, k2tog, k16. 44sts. Row 29: k2, sl1, k1, psso, k36, k2tog, k2. 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. with a few positional stitches rst, to make sure its in the right place. Cut off a length of yarn and pull apart so youve got a thinner strand that will t through the holes in the clasp. Then carefully stitch all along the edge of the clasp, making sure the edge of the knit ts neatly inside the clasp.

B
First 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. Row 23: k2, sl1, k1, psso, k6, k2tog, k2. 12sts. Row 24: p Row 25: k2, sl1, k1, psso, k4, k2tog, k2. 10sts. Continue in st st for 7 rows. 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. Continue in st st for 15 rows. Row 53: k2, sl1, k1, psso, k6, k2tog, k2. 12sts. Row 54: p. Row 55: k2, sl1, k1, psso, k4, k2tog, k2. 10sts. Continue in st st for 8 rows, cast off. Second part (B): Cast on 10sts. Knit 22 rows in st st. Cast off.

lutch bags are a staple in every wardrobe and theyre 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. Its roomy enough to accommodate a phone, purse, make-up and other necessities. Weve 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 st(s) K P Beg Sl Psso K2tog M1 St st slip stitch stitch(es) knit purl beginning slip sts from the left to right needle pass slipped st over knit 2sts together make 1st stocking stitch

T
Block 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

T :
Darn in loose ends. Dont 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 nished bow to the bag, securing it in several places.

76 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

KNIT IT

Youve made it, now sell it...

1
Make a shoulder or wrist strap from pretty velvet ribbon or metal chain for added vintage glamour and practicality.

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

2 3 4 5 6

Vary the embellishment and keep the luxe feel by swapping it for a bow made from lace, silk, velvet or satin.

Add a lining inside the bag. Pinstripe, polka dots or a pop of contrasting colour would make a sweet surprise. Create a statement bridal bag by replacing the antique clasp for a luxurious diamant version.

Be size wise. Make a small purse and pop inside as an extra item or go maxi for lovers of over-sized bags. Get list savvy! List online under headings such as 'gifts for her', 'wedding', 'birthdays' and 'Valentines'.

7 8 9 10

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.

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! Customise, customise, customise! Offer buyers a choice of yarn colour, embellishment and lining to create unique designs (for a premium, of course!) 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.

NOW SELLING ON...

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

Folksy: Hand knitted bag by Knitting Granny, 18

Folksy: Small Knitted Clutch by Rhea Clements Designs, 30

Craftseller 77
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

We at the bead pot love beads and creating and sharing all this with our customers...
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 nd more fun and exciting new products to share with our beading family. support@beadpot.co.uk 01227 784844 www.beadpot.co.uk

If you want a friendly, affordable & easy to use website to sell your creations then Crafters Boutique is for you! Benefits of selling on Crafters Boutique include:

10%
for craft seller rea
Discount

Rent your shop from as little as 6 per month - the longer you rent the more you save! No commissions are taken! List as many of your creations as you like - there is no limit!

craftseller

using code:

ders

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

www.craftersboutique.co.uk

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

Fibre craft and Yarn shop

+DEHUGDVKHU\+HDYHQ +LJK6WUHHW 0DLGHQKHDG 6/-1  )LQGXVRQ)DFHERRN
ZZZVHZFUDIW\VHZLQJFHQWUHFRXN



Beaker Button

info@beakerbutton.co.uk

www.beakerbutton.co.uk

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 xing that dropped stitch.

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

Tel: 07738 534164

Like to buy handcrafted gifts?

Looking to sell your handcraft online?

Join us at:

thecraftersbarn.co.uk
The UKs commission free handcraft website.
facebook.com/ thecraftersbarn @thecraftersbarn

Contact Claire on info@thecraftersbarn.co.uk for more information

On-line stockist of Liberty fabrics - Liberty Tana Lawn, Needlecord, Liberty Haberdashery and Liberty Lifestyle Crafting cottons. www.sewbox.co.uk, susan@sewbox.co.uk, 01787 269366 (10am - 3pm)

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

SELL IT

The new craft-selling trends for 2014

Macram, metallic cakes and badgers! Find out what the experts predict will be hot in handmade for the year ahead By Holly Johnson
Craftseller 79
WorldMags.net

SELL IT

WorldMags.net
wall-mounted designs, along with leading artist Shauna Richardson (shaunarichardson.com), who is famed for her giant Crochetdermy animals.

ts 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 whats going to sell best in 2014 and propel you to success? Take a look at the latest trends and nd out how you can adapt them for your own makes

Breaking the mould

In the same vein as Shaunas 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 were going to be more adventurous with our makes in 2014. I think experimenting with different threads will be popular next year. Macram 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.

Cool colours & hot hues

One of the best ways to nd out what shoppers are going to be looking for is to see whats gracing the catwalks. Whether you make fashion items or not, the looks created by top-name designers have a tendency to lter 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 whats in the shops, and start looking at whats 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 orals, 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 ocial Pantone colour for spring (in case youre wondering, its very close to the blue used on Facebook), and softer blues dubbed the new neutrals.

Dazzling blue meets crochet for an on-trend combination, as seen at Eucalyptus Clothing

edge, and for 2014 youll 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). Benjamins hot tip for giving the

Crafting is becoming less structured and more freeform

look your own spin? Badgers are going to be big. Theres always a woodland creature in the spotlight of craft, and this year its going to be badgers simply because theyve 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, butteries 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

The taste of 2014

And nally, baking is going to see quirky creations inspired by GBBO winner Francis Quinn, along with exciting new avour combinations as predicted by the director of The Cake and Bake Show, Luke Collins: Well see more unusual avours in sponge cakes including vegetables such as beetroot and courgette and also unusual avours in the icing. For wedding cakes, theres a lot of colour and also the use of metallics and texture is going to be big. For pastry lovers, youll be pleased to hear that this is also rmly on the menu. Its all about puff pastry, choux pastry and buns pastry with different, unusual avours and intricate presentations. Feeling inspired? Time to give these trends your own spin and incorporate them into your makes. Have fun!

The natural look

Themes and motifs are also a great way to ensure your makes have that on-trend

Fauxidermy designer Sarah Moore is seeing more buyers wanting to bring the natural world into their homes

80 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net
1

SELL IT

5 ways to make 2014 trends your own

1. Channel the botanical look into jewellery makes by using pressed owers, 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. Macram a range of clutch bags using this seasons colour trends, like dazzling blue. 5. Juxtapose natural and manmade with a fox-motif purse in metallic gold.

1 Clashing orals 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 Were 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

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

5 is

sue

s fo

Beat those January blues with a magazine subscription

8EOISYXEWYFWGVMTXMSRXSER]SRISJ]SYVJEZSYVMXIXMXPIWERHVIGIMZI]SYV VWX5 issues for just 5*

then SAVE 33%

then SAVE 33%

then SAVE 33%

then SAVE 33%

then SAVE 33%

then SAVE 33%

then SAVE 16%

then SAVE 20%

then SAVE 15%

then SAVE 30%

then SAVE 20%

then SAVE 44%

Great reasons to subscribe

 Continue to make great savings after your trial period  8V]]SYV VWX5 issues for just 5*   2IZIVQMWWERMWWYISJ]SYVJEZSYVMXIQEKE^MRI   )RNS]IEW]ERHGSRZIRMIRXHIPMZIV]HMVIGXXSyour door

ta This is jus titles. u of o r selection at full range View our ions.com/

script buysub sale january

2 EASY WAYS TO ORDER

Visit

www.buysubscriptions.com/januarysale WorldMags.net

Call

0844 844 0260

and enter promotional code JSCXP14

please quote code JSCXP14

CROCHET IT

WorldMags.net

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

A MAKEI T !
PROF
5 MAKE FOR

FOR 10

84 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Craftseller 85
WorldMags.net

CROCHET IT

WorldMags.net

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 (in) black toy eyes * Wool needle * Toy stung * Stitch marker * Pipe cleaners * 20mm (in) buttons * 5cm (2in) x 10mm (in) tartan ribbon * 5cm (2in) x 38mm (1in) 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 2 x 2in) Skill level: Moderate

ABBREVIATIONS
Sl st dc st(s) dc2tog BLO ch: htr: tr: slip stitch double crochet stitch(es) double crochet the next two stitches together work in the back loop of the stitch only chain half treble crochet treble crochet

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.

H
Use 3mm (UK 11) crochet hook. Start with 6dc into magic ring. 6sts. Round 1: (dc in the rst st, 3dc in the next two sts) repeat to end. 14sts. Round 2: 2dc in the rst 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.

How to make the Scotties

B
Use 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 rst st, 2dc in the next st) repeat to end. 18sts.

he 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 stashbusters as they can be crocheted from scraps of yarn and fabric and take only a few hours to make, so youll soon have a pack of them whizzed up for your next craft fair.

86 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

CROCHET IT

T
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. Cut the yarn leaving a long tail and pull through loop to secure. Sew in place on the body.

D
Doggie coat: cut a 5cm (2in) piece of 38mm (1in) 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 dogs 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 dogs head above one ear at a jaunty angle. Ribbon bow: using 10mm (in) tartan ribbon, place it round the dogs neck and tie a bow. Put a few stitches through the bow to secure it in place.

s the i n a t r a T ave must-h is fabric th season!

Round 12: (dc2tog, dc in the next seven sts) repeat to end. 16sts. Round 13: (dc2tog, dc in the next six sts) repeat to end. 14sts. Round 14: (dc2tog, dc in the next ve sts) repeat to end. 12sts. 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. 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. Sew the head onto the body Cut the yarn leaving a long tail and pull through loop to secure. Sew onto the head one on each side, just above the eyes.

L
Use 3mm (UK 11) crochet hook and matching yarn. Start with 6dc into ring. 6sts. Round 1: (dc in rst two sts, 2 dc in next st) repeat to end. 8sts. 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 the yarn leaving a long tail and pull through loop to secure. 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.

E
Use 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.

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 stufng and eyes. Pay attention while you are sewing your dogs together. All the pieces must be attached securely to make them safe.

Craftseller 87
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

SELL IT

Youve made it, now sell it...

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

Create a tiny tartan wardrobe for your pups by whipping up wee hats, collars and cute jackets in this popular pattern.

2 3 4 5 6

Broaden your market. List the Scotties as bag charms, car accessories and collectables for maximum reach.

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. Name the pups. We love Hamish, Angus, Gerty, Dougal, Florence and Heather, but anything goes!

Create a sense of fun with your photos. Snap the pooches in a series of quirky scenarios to add some humour. Go colour crazy! Forget neutral tones, these dogs can be rainbow brights, pretty pastels or plain black and white.

7 8 9 10

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.

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!) Be price-wise. Offer boxed, gift wrapped sets of three or ve for a premium or sell single Scotties at a slightly higher price per pup. 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.

NOW SELLING ON...

WowThankYou: Hamish Dog Brooch by Sandy Mitchell Jewellery, 28

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

Folksy: Scottie Dog by Gailcherub Creations, 7

Craftseller 88
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Q&A

Ask us
Our panel of experts is on hand to answer all your crafting and selling questions

Blade runner
Q A
I am fascinated by the look of papercutting and would love to learn more about it, and try it.

ANNIE HEAD, CUMBRIA

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 inuential artists like Mister Rob aka Rob Ryan, it needs minimal tools; paper, pencil, scissors, and craft knives. We found an introductory ve-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 images

Oh Deer prints from Urban Road, Stag Cushion from Cotswold Trading and biscuit tin from The Oak Room

Stag party
Q A
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
The fox! It may be seen as a predatory pest by many but hes still the Fantastic Mr Fox of the craft world. Fleets of foxes have chased out the owls weve seen so much of in the past couple of years and hes marking his territory. However, butting his way through, along with those other English woodland wonders badgers, rabbits and pheasants, is the stag. This magnicent creature is everywhere from sculptures to art prints, from cushions to coasters. This years 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 its the new - erm, black.

Craftseller 89
WorldMags.net

Q&A

WorldMags.net

MY TOP TEN TIPS

FAQ
This month our top Facebook question is

Q
TRACY BONESS
creates beautiful hand sewn boxes and cards at Crafty Little House, found on folksy.com, just search TracyBoness

I want to start getting my nances and bookkeeping in order and have been told I need to buy Excel. Is there a free alternative? PAULA HUNTER 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 OpenOfce.org has Calc, which you can download to your desktop.

Have you had your IP Healthcheck? Head to ipo.gov.uk

Always have a sketchbook. It loosens your thinking.

Copy cats
Q A
I want to copyright my designs. Can I post myself a copy to do this?

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Choose threads and fabrics wisely. You need good quality. Use recycled materials. Cereal boxes are perfect backing for magnets. Mix textures and clashing colours.

Find out whether part of your home is tax deductible

DENA DIXON, LONDON

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 veriable 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 nd out if you have IP to protect, whether you own it and how to protect it.

Only use bright pink as a backdrop for photos if you want a rosy glow. Know the settings on your camera. Keep pins and needles safe.

Taxing issues
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?

Dont cut fabric before you have measured it, twice. Make boxes with detachable lids for easy posting. Use a range of images on your business cards, its more engaging.

ELIZABETH NEWCOMBE, BY EMAIL

We checked with Starsh Accounting (starshaccounting.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

10

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!

90 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Q&A

ESSENTIAL CRAFT TOOL

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

GUEST EXPERT
MICHAEL 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

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 rmly believe this creates an individual and unique piece of work, which is important to my artistic integrity.

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 prots or even send you bankrupt. Trying the same strategy and expecting a different result Be true to your vision and mission, but be exible 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 Dont 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 Dont 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.
The Business of Creativity harriman-house.co.uk, 11.55

Tea lights
Q A
Ive 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

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 Find our latest create a gift receptacle, add pot pourri candle project in issue 31 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 cups 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 akes to improve burning quality and dye shavings for colour, is available from hobbycraft.co.uk.

Search for Craftseller on facebook.com

@craftsellermag

yourletters@ craft-seller.com

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

Craftseller 91
WorldMags.net

SEW IT

WorldMags.net

A MAKEI T !
PROF
1 MAKE FOR

FOR 11

92 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

SEW IT

Make a crafty tenner

This adorable pincushion is quick to sew and uses tiny amounts of scrap fabrics. Youll make a mice little prot! By Kate Smith How to make the mouse pincushion
Using 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 (in) seam allowance. Clip the curves, ensuring you dont cut the line of stitching.

INFORMATION
Materials * Fabric scraps * Scissors * Needles and thread * 2 small buttons or beads * Embroidery thread * Stung * 20cm (8in) ribbon Size: 10cm (4in) Skill level: Moderate

Fill with stufng until the mouse is rm. Hand sew the gap using a slip stitch or ladder stitch and small stitches.

Take your buttons or beads and sew in position for the eyes check the picture, opposite, for guidance.

Tie a knot in the end of the ribbon. Pin the knotted end onto the right side of the body base fabric piece. Its important that the long end of the ribbon is wound in a coil, to keep clear of the stitching.

Take 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.

hese cute pincushions are one of the best ways weve found of using up scraps of pretty fabric. They make great presents for anyone with an interest in sewing, or as part of a beginners 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.

Open 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.

Turn 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.

Sew together with a 1cm (in) seam allowance, making sure you leave a 4cm (1in) gap at the side to turn the mouse the right sides out.

Clip the curved seams, again ensuring you dont 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.

Thread a needle with embroidery thread, tie a knot 3cm (1in) from the end. Push the needle into the mouses 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 (1in) from the knot. Make three whiskers each side.

10

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER! Tweet us your tips and advice, and follow our own tweets @craftsellermag

Craftseller 93
WorldMags.net

MAKE IT

WorldMags.net

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

More ways than one..

A MAKEI T !
PROF
H MAKE BOT

FOR 8
FOR BOTH .5 32 0

94 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

MAKE IT

Craftseller 95
WorldMags.net

MAKE IT

WorldMags.net

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 ush wire cutters * Extension chain (optional) * Pearl dangle (optional) Size: ring 2.5cm (1in) cluster, necklace 45-50cm (18-20in) length Skill level: Easy

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 rst headpin with round-nose pliers, and bend tail of headpin over at right angle.

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.

luster 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 nish. The technique here is a two-part process, where the loop is preformed before being attached to the ring or chain and then the process completed by wrapping the tail. Add the larger beads rst and then work down to the smaller beads, using soft headpins with a ball end to give a more attractive nish to the necklace and ring. Of course you can alter your colours and beads to reect current trends for example, try gunmetal headpins and chain for that unmistakeable vintage look.

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.

4 Feed the tail into one of the metal loops on the ring base until the headpin loop is on the ring base loop.

5 Hold the loop that youve 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.

6 Repeat with the rest of the pearls, scattered over the ring base. Add the three 8 x 6mm rondelles and then nish with the smaller 6 x 4mm rondelles until the ring cluster is solid when the ring is worn.

96 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

MAKE IT

How to make the necklace

NOW SELLING ON...

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 youre attaching the headpins.

Not on the High Street Erin Cox Jewellery on noths.com

Folksy Fallon Ismail on folksy.com

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.

TOP TIP
Pre-form loops on all of one type of bead at once rather than one at a time to speed up the process

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.

Craftseller 97
WorldMags.net

MY CRAFT SHOP

WorldMags.net

My craft shop
Meet a trio of craft sellers who share the moneymaking secrets behind their success

The website owner

Ensure that potential shoppers can find their way around your site easily, advises Andrea
Ive 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 cant find their way around easily, theyll 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, Ive 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 its sunny, I go for a walk along the beach and look for driftwood. Life doesnt get much better!
Andreas bespoke, hand-painted letters have really taken off

ANDREA PARKER
from South Devon

WEBSITE
andreafays.moonfruit. com

TOP TIP
A shoppers rst e impression will b when they open the box, so use g elegant packagin

Oces dont get much prettier than this one!

I created my website using Moonfruit

98 Craftseller

The coastline where Andrea lives inspires her work

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

MY CRAFT SHOP

The online marketplace

TOP TIP
Laura Pyke
From Yorkshire

WEBSITE
SayIt on Folksy.com

res Aim for your pictu ong to be the best am s similar product . te on your selling si Photos are key
Folksys friendly community was just what Laura needed at the start of her creative journey
Id 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 youre 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. Its 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, theyre both attracting different customers and bringing in good sales.

The stallholder
For Eileen, the contact that she gets with her shoppers makes selling at craft fairs invaluable
Ive 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. Ive 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 theres 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 youve done one good one you wont want to stop!

Eileen sells knits and needlework

EILEEN CRITCHLEY
From Surrey

EILEENS CRAFT STUDIO

EileensCraftStudio on Folksy.com

Your stall needs to be clear and eye-catching

WorldMags.net

TOP TIP
ir Research each fap. before signing u is Check the event well established and advertised
Craftseller 99

CRAFTY COURSES

WorldMags.net

Crafty courses
ng Try anythi to ng from knitti rug making

Why not add a new craft to your skill set? Here are some of our top courses for you to try this month

Crafty Pedlars
The three ladies who run Crafty Pedlars workshops in West Lothian, Scotland, were brought together by shared passion.
Weve 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. Nicolas 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, skin-friendly ingredients such as herbs and flowers. She also teaches letterpress and lino printing and photography. Im 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.

Choose from a whole range of craft classes in this vibrant centre of creativity

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, craftypedlars@gmail.com or visit craftypedlarsworkshops.co.uk

100 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

CRAFTY COURSES

Nicki Trench Workshops

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.
Nickis most popular classes include Beginners Crochet, where learners will pick up basic techniques and stitches patchwork top while learning how to piece simple squares together effectively, choose a design and then sew it together. On Nickis 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 thatll 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.

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 youre 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 qualications 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. Theres also an ongoing programme of free demonstrations and events to get you in the sewing mood. Visit abakhan.co.uk

People of all ages and walks of life come to learn

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

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 nicki@nickitrench.com or visit nickitrench.com

Learn from Nickis wide range of skills

Search for Craftseller on facebook.com

@craftsellermag

yourletters@ craft-seller.com

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

Craftseller 101
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net
TOP TIP
Vist craft-seller. com/free-downloads to print all our templates at 100%, ready to use

Use 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
EAR
Cut 2 in black fabric (Cut the slit in 1 of the shape)

Templates
TROUSERS
Cut 4 in orange felt Cut 2 in orange felt

Cut 2 in orange felt

HEAD

EYELID

Cut 2 in orange felt

CHIN

Cut 2 in black fabric (cut the slit in both shapes)

JACKET BACK

FELT FOX (COPY AT 200%)

Cut 2 white felt

Cut 2 in orange felt

TAIL

EYE

Cut 4 in orange felt

HAND

Cut slit

OUTSIDE LEG
Cut 2

HEAD BACK
Cut 1 in orange felt

Cut 4 in black fabric

JACKET FRONT

Cut 4 in orange felt

TORSO

Cut 2 in orange felt

INSIDE LEG

Cut 4 in black fabric

SLEEVE

Neck inside

Cut 1 in grey felt

GLASS STEM

Cut 2 in white fabric

SHIRT

JACKET COLLAR
Cut 2 in black fabric

Cut 1 in red/white polka dot fabric

PARTY HAT

Cut 2 in black fabric

BOW TIE

Cut 2 in grey felt

GLASS BASE

HANDKERCHIEF
Cut 1 in white fabric Cut 1 in white fabric

POCKET 2 SHIRT COLLAR

Cut 4 in black fabric

POCKET 1

Cut 4 in white

HAT BASE

102 Craftseller

Cut 1 in black fabric

Cut 2 in grey felt

GLASS TOP

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net
SLEEPING BAG (COPY AT 400%)
LARGE CIRCLE MEDIUM CIRCLE SMALL CIRCLE

MAKE IT

LARGE EYES MEDIUM ELEPHANT SMALL ELEPHANT MEDIUM EYES

MOUSE
Cut 2

PINCUSHION (COPY AT 200%)

SLEEPING BAG BACK

ELEPHANT (COPY AT 200%)

SMALL EYES

armpit 30.5cm (12in) width 51cm (20in) length Total length 68.5cm (27in) bottom 45.5cm (18in)

MOUSE BUM

em seam allowance

LARGE ELEPHANT LARGE ELEPHANT EARS MEDIUM ELEPHANT EARS

ZIP COVER SLEEPING BAG FRONT

armpit 30.5cm (12in) width 51cm (20in) length bottom 45.5cm (18in)

SMALL ELEPHANT EARS

NEW YEAR CARDS (COPY AT 200%)

PHOTOBOOTH KIT (COPY AT 200%)

103 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net TO ADVERTISE IN OUR CRAFTSELLER STOREROOM

STOREROOM
BEADS CRAFT SHOP

PLEASE CALL JANE HENDY ON 0117 314 8823 OR EMAIL JANE.HENDY@IMMEDIATE.CO.UK

CRAFTING

GENERAL CRAFTS

Cardmaking Supplies For Every Occasion

$EUDQGQHZZHEVLWHGHGLFDWHGWR EULQJLQJ\RXWKHEHVWFUDIW PDWHULDOVRQWKHPDUNHW
:LWKRXU6WLWFKLQJ)HOW%XWWRQ5LEERQ (PEHOOLVKPHQW$FFHVVRU\'LVSOD\DQG/LJKWLQJ GHSDUWPHQWV\RXDUHVXUHWRQGHYHU\WKLQJ\RXQHHG

ZZZFUDIWGHSDUWPHQWFRP
Unit 32, Basepoint Enterprise Centre, Stroudley Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG24 8UP T el: 07749027634 Web: www.thebeadbase.co.uk

Craft Creations
www.thecraftroomonline.co.uk

www.craftcreations.com

GENERAL CRAFTS
MATERIAL NEEDS
FAST MAIL www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk ORDER SERVICE

Classied advertising works

0117 933 8024 jane.hendy@immediate.co.uk to place your advert please contact Jane

SPECIALIST OUTDOOR FABRICS

For Quality products at competitive prices

Wools Dress, patchwork and quilting fabrics Cross stitch Haberdashery, ribbon, lace, braids ...and so much more
79 High Street, Burnham-on-Sea, Somerset TA8 1PE

IES

s 4ECHNICAL mEECE s "REATHABLE WATER RESISTANT FABRICS s &ABRICS FOR BAGS AND COVERS s ,ARGE RANGE OF BUCKLES HOOKS AND WEBBING s :IPS THREAD PATTERNS ETC

Tel: 01278 794751 www.material-needs.co.uk

www.pennineoutdoor.co.uk Email: sales@pennineoutdoor.co.uk Tel: 01524 263377

Advertise your Craft Workshops and Craft Courses in our next issue of from as little as 45 + vat per month
For more details contact Jane Hendy 0117 314 8823 Jane.Hendy@immediate.co.uk
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

NEXT MONTH IN BACK ISSUES

23 projects to make you prot * Best-selling Valentines Day makes * FREE needle set and notepad

funky r u o t i n K ion! owl cush

FREE Make your own Rudolph felt kit

ISSUE 29

FREE Exclusive calendar for 2014

ISSUE 30

FREE Handmade Christmas Gifts craft book

ISSUE 31

8 PAGES of papercraft papers

BACK ISSUES ORDER FORM

Item Non-subscriber Subscriber Issue(s) Qty Total ()

Back issue UK Back issue Europe Back issue Rest of World

6.35 8.35 9.35

5.35 7.35 8.35

Grand total

Your details: (please print clearly)

Mr / Mrs / Ms / Miss Address Name

Romanti c hanging heart

hese t h c t i t S birds e v o l e t u c

Postcode Country Tel number (in case of queries) Email address*

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:

* Contents subject to change

Valid from / Expiry date / Issue number

Signature Date

Our February issue

IS ON SALE FROM 16 JANUARY
SUBSCRIBE TODAY TO CRAFTSELLER
Order online at buysubscriptions.com/craftseller Call now on 0844 322 1236
Lines open weekdays 8am to 8pm and Saturday 9am to 1pm.

Now post your order to: FREEPOST RRJZ-HJKA-ZBCX, Craftseller, PO Box 326, Sittingbourne, Kent, ME9 8FA
Please allow up to 28 days for delivery. All prices inclusive of P&P.
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 youd 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

Craftseller 105

WorldMags.net

FAVOURITE MAKES

WorldMags.net

Here are just some of our favourite makes from the exciting designers and crafters weve discovered this month

Online loves

Home Fashion
* We cant wait to sport one of this seasons biggest trends with this fox jumper! * Mens organic sweater, Frankie the Fox by BoodleBoutique, 30 on folksy.com * Sweet and stylish, wooden alphabet blocks bring a lovely vintage feel to a nursery. * Wooden alphabet blocks by JuliaStaite, 15 on notonthehighstreet.com * 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

Bakes

Home
* Nothing says home like a handmade pic and we adore this appliqu scene. So cosy! * Framed appliqu and machine embroidery picture of country cottage by RubyPatch, 50 on etsy.com

gifts m a r g o Mon ar, e y l l a t i are a h hing! c t i t s t r a Accessories so st

* Initial pendants are hugely popular and we love the personal touch of these ones. * Hand embroidered initial necklace by SamPGibson, 20 on etsy.com

Home

* We plan to get our mitts on these embroidered pieces for a quick and quirky dcor update *how* cute?! * Megafauna, 95.50 by MountRoyalMint on etsy.com

106 Craftseller
WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

WorldMags.net

Go ahead get creative!

JP760 A size machine that is light
enough to carry to classes, yet packed with 60 stitches and full of computerised features to make sewing easy.

WorldMags.net

DXL603 :LWKEXLOWLQVWLWFKHVIRUTXLOWLQJ
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.

Janome has a great range of machines to offer the very best in computerised sewing.
QXL605 All the features of the DXL603
EXWZLWKDQDXWRPDWLFEXLOWLQWKUHDG cutter and advanced feeding system for precise stitching.

TXL607 2XUUVWPRGHOZLWKDOSKDEHW & memory facilities. It has direct stitch selection for the most useful stitches and a handy panel for quick selection.

Sewing difcult fabrics can get really tricky even for the more experienced. Janome machines are reliable and robust and tackle difcult 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 specication machines at affordable prices.

MC5900QC This machine has computerised precision and is packed with over 500 stitches including 10 DXWRVWHSEXWWRQKROHV7\SHLQDQG HGLWOHWWHULQJIURPIXOODOSKDEHWVDQG FUHDWHFXVWRPFRPELQDWLRQVRIXSWR VWLWFKHVLWVDOOLQWKHQHUGHWDLO

For further information: Telephone 0161 666 6011 or visit our website www.janome.co.uk

The Worlds leading sewing machine manufacturer

WorldMags.net