On 19th February, I made the trip to the NEC to ‘Stitches’ which is the largest UK craft trade fair. Held over 4 days, it is a showcase for the new ranges being introduced to the UK market this spring.
If I am being honest, I was a little disappointed by the lack of innovation on show. It was very much a case of more of the same. Yes, there were some lovely new ranges from certain suppliers (more of this to come) – but there was nothing amazingly, radically, earth-shatteringly new.
It was great to go round the NEC when it was quiet (the public shows are always so crowded) and the ability to sit down in one of the food areas without having to queue was a bonus.
The one thing that was missing from the show was ORIENTAL. This really is a trend from 3 years ago – it isn’t current, there is nothing new out there and hopefully we will have seen the end of it… (though I have my doubts)
In terms of design themes, SWIRLS and DOODLES are still very much to the fore along with all things DISTRESSED and SHABBY. Chipboard is still very popular (including a new range from The Artistic Stamper- a CSF supporter). There was innovation in this area from Cosmo Cricket who have introduced ‘Blackboard‘ which is an all-black range of chipboard albums, alphas and shapes. I shall certainly be looking out for that.
Prima have some new flowers (including ones up to 6in diameter), K&Co have 4 new ranges coming through (Blue Awning was my favourite – shabby blues and greens). Trimcraft (the people behind Dovecraft) have a new range of Laura Ashley papers and embellishments – not sure on the prices – but I know people will like these).
Some of you might already know this but Create and Craft are moving into the retail product market. They have launched a range of papers, cards, decoupage and much more. Again, no idea of prices – but it might mean that if you like an element, you can buy just one or two of them rather than a whole kit!
The two ranges that really caught my eye were Fleuriste from Cosmo Cricket and 29th Market Street from My Mind’s Eye. These are in the distressed themes – with some great colour palettes. Click on the links to see more.
I am sure that the UK stores will soon have these coming into stock. I am certain to keep you posted.
On a side note, I bumped into a few people I used to know from my Hobbycraft days – which was lovely. I also met up with Anice from Funky Hand, Leandra from Paper Artsy and Jennie from The Artistic Stamper – which was great.
Anyway – that is my brief report from the NEC – if anyone would like to pay for me to go to CHA in the summer – you know where I am!!
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