THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CRAFT & HOBBY ASSOCIATION

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CRAFT & HOBBY ASSOCIATION

SUMMER2008

U.S. $5.00

Kids’ Kids’ CraftingInspiring Growth and Creativity

“Make Money, Not Excuses” with Keynote Jean Chatzky

Five Reasons Retail Businesses

Don’t Survive

e Money

PLUS:

SUMMER SHOW ISSUE

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Portfolio SUMMER 2008 5

SUMMER2008

12 238Kids’ CraftingThe theme of this year’s CHA Summer Show is “Kids’ Crafting: Inspiring Growth and Creativity.” We’ll explore kids’ crafting, including the family bonding and educational potential inherent in this industry segment.

Summer Show Keynote: Jean ChatzkyJean Chatzky is the Summer Show keynote speaker. This award-winning journalist, best-selling author and motivational speaker will provide you with the inspiration and education needed to “Make Money, Not Excuses.”

Five Reasons Retail Businesses Don’t SurviveDeclining sales is not the biggest problem in retailing. In this article, The Retail Owners Institute will list the fi ve primary reasons why retail businesses don’t survive over the long term.

Contents

Additional FeaturesMember Profi le: William Korr Sales is a Family Affair .......21

CHA 2008 Summer Show PreviewShow Preview ....................................................................12It’s Offi cial! Chicago’s Mayor Proclaims July 16 “Kids’ Craft Day in Chicago” .........................................14On the Show Floor: Tap into Kids’ Crafting .....................16On-Site Registration Information ......................................17Summer Show Task Forces ...............................................18On-Site Services ...............................................................19Press Room .......................................................................20

DepartmentsChief Executive Offi cer’s Message .....................................6Inside CHA CHA-CHING. Your CHA Member$hip Has Big Value! ..26 Member Buzz on the CHA Member Networking Site ...27 Marketing: Celebrate the Season Promotion.............28 National Craft Month: March Madness ......................29 CHA Board of Directors Meeting ...............................29

Inside CHA (continued) Staff Profi les ................................................................30 Workshop Sponsors Featured on CHA’s Online Learning Center ..........................30 Call for 2009 Award Nominations ..............................31 A Fond Farewell to Semo Sennas...............................31 CHA Designer Trend Team Report ............................32Guest Publisher Corner By Annie Niemiec, Pack-o-Fun®, Amos Craft Publishing ...33Index to Advertisers ..........................................................34

12CHA 2008 Summer Show Preview

6 Portfolio SUMMER 2008

With the arrival of warm weather, I find myself reflecting on past summers that hold many fond and cherished childhood memories. When you are young, the summertime seems to possess an almost magical quality. I remember playing outside all day long and returning home when the street lights came on. Back then you didn’t feel the stress and pressures associated with being over-scheduled or related to being an adult—it was a season that represented creativity, imagination and discovery.

As I look forward to the upcoming CHA Summer Show in Rosemont, I know that the show theme of “Kids’ Crafting: Inspiring Growth and Creativity” is an incredible opportunity to capture the expanding youth market comprised of more than 73 million children in the U.S. Within two years, the U.S. Census Bureau estimates that 40 percent of all U.S. households will have at least one child under the age of 18. Today, about 33 percent of U.S. households are “crafting households with kids*!” Suddenly, we are courting an emerging market and are faced

with educating the next generation of crafters! Learning how to infl uence this demographic on the benefi ts of crafting will drive growth in our industry.

To help the industry focus on children, CHA has partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago to sponsor a “Kid’s Craft Fair” at the General Robert E. Wood Center on July 16, 2008. CHA’s national spokesperson, Terri O., along with several contributing CHA members will host the Kid’s Craft Fair to benefi t over 130 children from Chicago’s urban neighborhoods. Sharing crafts with kids will foster not only a passion for crafting, but will inspire creativity and long-term industry growth. We’re very proud that Chicago’s mayor, Richard M. Daley, has proclaimed July 16 to be Kids’ Craft Day in Chicago (see page 14 for more information)!

In the following pages, there is more information about special kids crafting displays and other CHA show activities, a world-class educational program with dozens of business-building seminars,

workshops and events designed to help suppliers and buyers network and build stronger businesses. Be sure to attend the keynote address by Jean Chatzky, one of the nation’s leading personal fi nance experts, to talk about fi nances and how to “Make Money, Not Excuses.” Jean’s expertise as an editor at Money Magazine, fi nancial editor of NBC’s Today Show, and AOL’s offi cial Money Coach will provide valuable insight into the tightening global economy and how to remain a successful, viable business in 2008 and beyond.

For our industry and your businesses to grow, each of us needs a fresh perspective. By helping ourselves and our customers reconnect with children and kids’ crafts, we can shape the future of the industry.

We look forward to seeing you at the CHA 2008 Summer Show in Rosemont and as always, I welcome your thoughts and comments. Please feel free to contact me directly at (201) 835-1201 or [email protected]. ●

CEO’smessage

Steven Z. BergerChief Executive Offi cer

Not Just Child’s Play

*Source: CHA 2007 Attitude & Usage Study


CHA Board of DirectorsThe CHA Board is elected from the membership and is working hard on your behalf. Opinions are always welcome, and the best way to make your ideas heard is by sending an email to the Board’s Member Connect Commitee at [email protected].

James ScatenaChief Governance Offi cerFloraCraftjscatena@fl oracraft.com

Michael McCooeyVice Chair Plaid [email protected]

Linda Augsburg Kalmbach [email protected]

Michael BirkholmDarice, [email protected]

Rob Bostick [email protected]

Elizabeth Boyle Treasury of [email protected]

Craig Curtis [email protected]

Jane Anne Davis BagWorks, [email protected]

Robert Ferguson Ferguson Merchandising [email protected]

Cindy Groom-Harry Craft Marketing Connections, [email protected]

Becky Jones Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft [email protected]

Herbert Lantinga Notions Marketing [email protected]

John Laurie Coats & Clark [email protected]

Joseph McCabe The DMC [email protected]

Sara Naumann Hot Off The [email protected]

Larry Olliges Dee’s [email protected]

Mark Peters Duncan [email protected]

Maureen Ruth Creative Marketing [email protected]

Carolyn Schulz Creative [email protected]

Steven Z. BergerChief Executive Offi [email protected], 201-835-1201Dale R. AthertonVice President, Finance & [email protected], 201-835-1208Sandra M. GhezziVice President, Marketing,Member Services & [email protected], 201-835-1222Tony LeeVice President, Meetings & [email protected], 201-835-1234Kevin A. AllisonTrade Show Marketing [email protected], 201-835-1219Robert BaniMail & Warehouse [email protected], 201-835-1212Sandra BrennanFinancial [email protected], 201-835-1216Donna CennimoExhibits [email protected], 201-835-1217Keri CunninghamMarketing [email protected], 201-835-1229Lidia DiazExecutive Assistant to CEOand Offi ce [email protected], 201-835-1215Victor DominePublic Relations [email protected], 201-835-1224Paul DubeSenior IT [email protected], 201-835-1228Avery DykmanEducation Meeting [email protected], 201-835-1204

John ErichTrade Show Marketing [email protected], 201-835-1205William KeenanManager, Systems & Information [email protected], 201-835-1221Amie KolbMember Education [email protected], 201-835-1202Anthony LicataSenior Sales [email protected], 201-835-1203Pam MayMember Services Manager& CHA Portfolio Managing [email protected], 201-835-1206Tina Mercardo, CEMOperations [email protected], 201-835-1226Lauri PietruszkaExhibit Sales [email protected], 201-835-1211Avani SaraiyaInformation Systems [email protected], 201-835-1249Semo SennasMarketing Program [email protected], 201-835-1218Tara SmithMarketing [email protected], 201-835-1223Jennifer SniderMember Services [email protected], 201-835-1213Tracy SotoOffi ce Administrator & [email protected], 201-835-1210Sue SpivakMember Services [email protected], 201-835-1227Harriet TainskyOperations [email protected], 201-835-1209

VISIONA vibrant industry with an exciting image,

expanding customer base and successful members.

MISSION• Stimulate the sales growth of the craft and hobby industry

• Create consumer demand • Help members succeed• Lead the industry

The Craft & Hobby Association is a not-for-profi t organization consisting of more than 5,500 member companies engaged in the manufacture, distribution and retail sales of products in the $31 billion craft

and hobby industry. The association offers a broad range of member services, including market research, education and consumer branding initiatives, and operates two annual international trade show events –

the CHA Winter and CHA Summer shows – that attract more than 20,000 industry professionals.

Staff

CHA Portfolio is published quarterly for:The Craft & Hobby Association319 East 54th StreetElmwood Park, NJ 07407(201) 835-1200Fax: (201) 797-0657www.craftandhobby.orgwww.chashow.org

Published by:

Naylor, LLC5950 N.W. First PlaceGainesville, FL 32607(352) 332-1252or (800) 369-6220Fax: (352) 331-3525www.naylor.com

Publisher: Mark MiglioreEditor: Robin LamersonProject Manager: Rick JablonskiAdvertising Director: Rya BoyceAccount Representatives: Debbi Brown, Ryan Griffi n, Jessica Imm, Geri NewmanLayout & Design: Robert Mensies Marketing Associate: Lauren WilliamsAdvertising Art: Effi e Monson

CHA Portfolio is distributed on a complimentary basis to CHA members. Subscription fee for non-CHA members is $25 a year. Additional copies available upon request, pending availability. To order, contact the CHA Portfolio editor at 201-835-1206.

PUBLISHED JUNE 2008/HOB-Q0208/7342

©2008 Naylor, LLC. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without the prior written consent of the publisher.

Craft & Hobby Association319 East 54th Street, Elmwood Park, NJ 07407Phone: (201) 835-1200 • Fax: (201) 797-0657

Web sites: www.craftandhobby.orgwww.chashow.org

CCraaft &CCra & HH bobby& HHo AAsbby ssociatiotionssoci


Watching children work on a craft is an inspiring experience. Children have a way

of diving headfirst into a project, experimenting with different approaches and having fun as they’re doing it. What kids don’t realize is that as they enjoy themselves, they’re gaining valuable skills and experiences that can help them succeed not only during their project but also throughout their lives.

Enhanced Learning“If kids are doing something with their hands, they’re actually learning more and learning better,” says Sheryl Burnell, executive director of sales at Klutz. “It’s stimulating all kinds of great stuff in them.”

“It’s irrefutable,” agrees John Abens, owner of Fibre-Craft Materials Corp. “If a child gets the chance to work with his hands regularly, he is more likely to achieve academic success, has a better chance of being elected to school offi ce, will more often be chosen to exhibit his work at math and science

fairs and his attendance record markedly improves.”

Children who learn using tactile, visual and auditory senses exhibit increased reading skills over contemporaries, have more developed eye/hand motor skills at earlier ages and tend to be more confi dent and less susceptible to bullying and childhood stressors, according to Fibre-Craft.

A 2001 study conducted for the Hobby Industry Association by an independent educational research and consulting company showed signifi cant benefi ts for students when teachers use hands-on projects to reinforce school lessons. Craft projects help teachers reach children with a wide variety of learning styles, including visual or kinesthetic learners, slow readers or writers and non-native English speakers. Students engaged in hands-on craft projects also exhibit a greater curiosity about the subject matter they’re exploring.

Learning also takes place outside the classroom. Crafts can stimulate a child’s interest in how things work,

says Jacqui Hauser, owner of the Studio for Art & Craft in Howes Cave, NY. When kids make a piece of jewelry or put together a lamp for their bedrooms, “it teaches them that all things get put together somehow, and that they can fi gure it out—they just have to penetrate it instead of accepting things at face value.”

This kind of learning makes a lifelong impact. “Dr. James Kaufman, professor of psychology at California State University, has said that ‘Creative people are more likely to be leaders, fulfi ll responsibilities, be happy, successful and purposeful in life’,” according to Cheri Sterman, director of child development and consumer relationships at Crayola. “What more could a parent want for a child?”

Positive Self-ExpressionParents may focus on the learning benefi ts of crafts, but children are usually more interested in crafts as a method of exploring and establishing their own identities.

“Self-expression is probably one of the strongest and most natural

Inspiring Growth and Creativity BY MARY LOU JAY

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desires that anyone has at any age,” says Denise Carter, Vice President of Merchandising and Product Development at Janlynn. “It starts at a very early age. Self-expression really makes children feel special about themselves; they take pride in their accomplishments, and it builds self-confi dence and self-discipline.”

Crafts provide young people with the opportunity to try out different approaches to an activity, incorporating their own preferences for colors, shape and design into the end product. It’s something that they do naturally, Hauser notes.

“When you show people a sample of what you’re going to make, the adults dissect it; they want to make it exactly like yours,” she says. “With kids, you tell them that we’re going to make a bracelet that looks sort

of like this, and sometimes that’s even too much detail. All they hear is ‘we’re going to make a bracelet,’ and their creativity takes over. They’re less worried about how it looks; they like how it feels fi rst—how it feels for them to make and wear it themselves is a higher priority for them.”

Crafting provides an opportunity for kids who may not be leaders or popular in school with a chance to shine among their peers. “Everyone is different and has different strengths, and crafting brings that out. It’s great for children to learn from each other and to have a built-in audience for their accomplishments that makes them feel good.”

Kids who have a positive experience at their fi rst attempts at self-expression will be inspired

to try other activities. “When kids master something, it gives them the confi dence to want to try something a little bit harder,” says Hauser. Those who like their results when painting pottery may go on to try their hand at throwing or building their own pottery bowl. Those who like stringing beaded necklaces may learn to make their own beads.

Crafting success contributes to a positive self-image and improved behavior. “Studies out there show that if children grow up believing they’re creative, in later years they have a better chance of fi nding constructive outlets for their creative energy,” says Carter.

Forging RelationshipsEnjoying craft time with friends and family members provides benefi ts for

“We’ve listened to moms at various focus groups,

and they’ve talked about the great memories they

have of creative arts and crafts projects with their

parents and grandparents, and how special and

important those memories are. There’s a legacy

component here.”

– Brian Cornell, CEO of Michaels Stores, Inc.© SEAN LOCKE | ISTOCKPHOTO.COM


children that no electronic

game or television program can provide.

“One of the very important parts of the creative process is collaboration,” says Sterman. Creativity rarely occurs in isolation. “It’s usually a process of building on each other’s ideas, bouncing ideas

back and forth and being playful with them.” This process helps kids to start exploring ideas from others’ points of view, to look at a project or an idea from another perspective.

Through crafts, parents can gain insights into their children’s personalities. “All they have to do is provide their children with a creative, crafting experience, where the children have an opportunity to put their own thoughts and feelings down on paper. It creates a wonderful connection between a parent and a child when a parent has that window into the child’s mind,” Sterman says.

Crafts provide links between generations. “We’ve listened to moms at various focus groups,

and they’ve talked about the great memories they have of creative arts and crafts projects with their parents and grandparents, and how special and important those memories are. There’s a legacy component here,” says Brian Cornell, CEO of Michaels Stores, Inc.

“There’s a very emotive element to it, but it’s grounded in a very functional need, that is, moms looking for a way to spend more quality time working with their kids. Crafts serve as an alternative to video games and DVDs, moving them into a different area where they can watch and their children discover and refi ne their own personal creative skills.”

Designing for kids is the most challenging of all the product

development work our company does.

This will be surprising to those who have approached kids’

products with the mindset of “just use stock clip art in bright

colors, keep the component costs low and throw it all in a box

with a handle.”

So-o-o? Well, where do we begin? Maybe with the initial

strategy.

At CHA Board meetings, we spend a signifi cant amount of

time discussing ways to connect with kids; how to increase the

appeal of crafting to parents, kids, tweens and teens. We know

that the next generation is our industry’s future. If kids perceive

crafts as fun and cool and if they have positive craft experiences,

they may stick with it, or at least, return to crafts as adults.

The next step is to realize that anyone who sells to kids is also

selling to adults. Even with many kids having more discretionary

dollars, parents, grandparents and parents’ friends are involved

in that birthday present or holiday gift decision. So, the appeal

must be to both adult and kids.

Therefore, consider the following when designing children’s

products:

1. Work with experienced developers who specialize in the

children’s market!

2. Get safety guidelines and proper agency approval. Announce

it on the packaging.

3. Conduct focus groups (formal or informal) with adults and kids.

See if they like the look, the actual activity and the end results.

4. Have professionals write the instructions including step

photos. Test with kids and parents.

5. Source quality components. Test fi nal components received to

make sure they actually work!

6. Develop good package graphics. Gauge adult and child

response.

There will be more helpful information on the kids craft

market at the upcoming CHA 2008 Summer Convention & Trade

Show. If you’d like to get involved, contact Member Connect at

[email protected].

Cindy Groom-Harry is CEO of Craft Marketing Connections, a product development, marketing and public relations company (www.craftmarketingconnections.com). Cindy also serves on the CHA Board of Directors.

Developing Kids’ Craft ProductsBY CINDY GROOM-HARRY

“Self-expression really makes children feel special about

themselves; they take pride in their accomplishments, and it builds

self-confidence and self-discipline.”

– Denise Carter, Vice President of Merchandising and Product Development at Janlynn

© STEPHCONNELL | DREAMSTIME.COM


Promoting Children’s Creativity Craft and hobby stores can help parents encourage their children’s creative potential by providing them with crafting opportunities and suggestions.

“There are people who are already crafters and who want to carry on that tradition with their children. There’s also a large part of the population who understand the value of creativity and want it for their kids, even though they might not have the knowledge to transfer to their kids. They’re looking for tools, ideas and information to help their child. It’s important to address the needs of both populations,” advises Sterman.

Some stores offer craft hours or events (like birthday parties) for kids, but even if a store can’t do this on a regular basis they can offer demonstrations or events where children can try out a simple craft and have something to take home.

Displays of fi nished samples of crafts can grab kids’ and parents’ attention and encourage them to try it out for themselves.

“But don’t expect a fi rst time crafter to come in for their eight year old and spend $50,” Carter advises. “If you can put everything they need in a box for $9.99 they’ll be more likely to buy it.”

Offering a variety of kits is a good way to generate interest, adds Burnell. A scarf kit or paper airplane book can appeal to a parent who enjoys knitting or building model airplanes. “You’re telling them, this is the way to get your child started in a craft that you really love.”

Stores can suggest the sense of connection that crafts provide by posting photos of families sitting together at a table working on a craft. “Having those kinds of photos in your display says, ‘You, too, can have this real moment of connection’,” says Sterman.

Partnering with teachers is another way to get crafts into kids’ hands. “Teachers believe in the power and importance of creativity,” Sterman continues.

“They’re already natural advocates for the children.” Stores can search out opportunities to participate in schools’ special activities or hold craft events designed specifi cally for teachers.

Don’t forget homeschoolers, advises Carter. “I have seen groups of homeschoolers who get together and go to a craft store for craft time because they know that’s so important. This can be an opportunity for a store owner to say,

‘We have classes to help your child express himself’.”

Even a challenging economy won’t discourage parents from seeking craft opportunities for their kids, says Hauser. “People are watching their money, and trying to do things that are more meaningful with their money.” An activity like crafts that helps their children learn, express themselves and form closer relationships will appeal to those parents as a real bargain. ●

Orders of $250 to $1000 *

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*Offers cannot be combined with any other promotions or discounts. We reserve the rights to limit quantities. All Rights Reserved. Not responsible for printing or typographical errors.

©2008 Darice. Coupon# CHAS08 Coupon valid from 7/18/08 thru 7/20/08.

Des ign ing the futureof crafts today

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Darice Scrapbooking with Kim Roberto 7:00am – 9:00am

Darice Innovation Seminar11:30am – 1:30pm

Be sure to sign-up for our CHA Summer Show

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CHA is pleased to welcome Jean Chatzky

as Keynote presenter at the CHA 2008 Summer Convention & Trade Show in Rosemont, IL. A celebrated financial expert, Jean serves as the Financial Editor for NBC’s Today Show, as AOL’s official Money Coach, and contributing editor for Money Magazine.

In her keynote address, Make Money, Not Excuses…even in a Recession!, Jean will present an illuminating discussion about the nature of money and will discuss the real reasons why people setup roadblocks to wealth. She will provide strategies for ridding ourselves of these success-blocking excuses, putting the audience on the path towards real wealth, real fi nancial security – and peace of mind.

Jean Chatzky is the author of four books including Make Money, Not Excuses, a Wall Street Journal and New York Times best-seller. Additionally, Jean frequently hosts “Talking Money with Jean Chatzky” on CNBC, was a featured money coach on Oprah’s “Debt Diet” series, hosts a daily show on the Oprah & Friends XM radio channel and has appeared on

The Oprah Winfrey Show, The View and Live with Regis & Kelly.

Join us on Thursday, July 17, 2008 for Jean’s keynote presentation. The event will take place from 6:30-7:30 p.m., preceded by a cocktail reception from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center Ballroom.

Jean Chatzky’s keynote presentation joins the broad spectrum of programs and product resources lined up for the CHA 2008 Summer Show. Tickets for this event (E502) can be purchased online through www.chashow.org. For more information on Jean Chatzky and the CHA 2008 Summer Show, visit www.chashow.org. ●

CHA 2008 Summer Show Preview


Recession!, Jeailluminating disnature of monethe real reasonup roadblocksprovide strateourselves of thexcuses, puttithe path towafi nancial secuof mind.

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Summer Show Keynote: Jean Chatzky


Retailing with ExcellenceCHA continues this successful track of customized education for independent and scrapbook retailers. Focusing on key business basics including marketing, sales and inventory management, the goal of this program is to encourage continued success and growth among CHA’s independent retailer members with simple take-home business lessons they can put right to use.

Designer EducationThis program features events tailored specifi cally for designer members and scheduled conveniently during the lunch hours to reduce time off the

tradeshow fl oor. Designers of all levels are encouraged to attend networking events in addition to education, with topics including art licensing, the use of technology in design, working with a manufacturer and much more! Other opportunities for designers to show their work or meet potential clients are planned with the Designer Showcase (E503) and the Designer Networking event with editors, publishers and manufacturers (E505).

Kids’ Crafting – Show Themed EducationHave you ever wondered how to target kids with

your craft products or services? Now you can learn! Find out how to reach this important customer segment by reaching them directly through parents and schools! Plus, learn new kids crafting projects and techniques through CHA’s workshop program. ●

Show PreviewCHA Summer Convention Offers Member Education Opportunities

|

372047_Prism.indd 1 3/3/08 7:04:59 PM


To support the 2008 Craft & Hobby Association Summer Convention & Trade Show theme of Kids’

Crafting: Inspiring Growth and Creativity, CHA has reached out to partner with the Boys & Girls Club of Chicago

(BGCC) and the Honorable Richard M. Daley, Mayor of Chicago, for help in developing a two-hour Kid’s Craft Fair. The localized event is scheduled for Wednesday, July 16, 2008 from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 noon at the Boys & Girls Club

Robert E. Wood Center, located at 2950 W. 25th Street, Chicago. The 135 children (aged 6-12) scheduled to participate will come from the local neighborhood and are predominantly of Mexican heritage. In support of kids and crafting the Mayor has officially proclaimed July 16 as “Kids’ Craft Day in Chicago,” to “encourage all Chicagoans to recognize the importance of family and to spend quality time with their loved ones.”

CHA will compile donations in lieu of presenting a “big check” to the BGCC. CHA has set a goal to collect donated craft projects and supplies that will help create a crafting curriculum to last the Robert E. Wood Center an entire year! Sharing this passion of crafts with kids will create a new generation of passionate crafters,

inspire creativity and help build good will within the community.

Terri O. will talk to the children about inspiring creativity and imagination through crafts. Several CHA members, including Duncan Enterprises, Jo-Ann Stores, Inc., Arte Latin-Oh!, Creative Hands, Scrapbook Retailer Magazine, Memory Makers Magazine, EK Success, Ellison, Pack-O-Fun Magazine and Leisure Arts, will lead craft projects. Phoenix Multicultural Group, the CHA Hispanic research agency, will actively pursue the Spanish-speaking media with a rich and compelling story on crafting. Additionally, the CHA public relations fi rm, Fleishman-Hillard, will secure coverage with the traditional English-speaking press for the event. ●


It’s Official! Chicago’s Mayor Proclaims July 16“Kids’ Craft Day in Chicago”

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$Mark Montano’s 10-Minute Craft ChallengeReady… Set… Craft! Join Mark Montano from TLC’s While You Were Out and author of “The Big-Ass Book of Crafts” twice a day as he hosts Mark Montano’s 10-Minute Craft Challenge - a fast paced, high-energy crafting competition! Audience members will be randomly selected to compete for exciting prizes as they show off their crafting capabilities. Stick around for the fun and you might be chosen next.

Schedule:Schedule: July 18th 10:00am & 2:00pmJuly 18th 10:00am & 2:00pm July 19th 10:00am & 2:00pm July 19th 10:00am & 2:00pm July 20th 10:00am & 2:00pm July 20th 10:00am & 2:00pm

Thursday, July 17Thursday, July 17

5:30 - 6:30 pm “Taste of Rosemont“ Reception5:30 - 6:30 pm “Taste of Rosemont“ Reception6:30 - 7:30 pm Presentation 6:30 - 7:30 pm Presentation

Price: Member $25, Onsite $50 Price: Member $25, Onsite $50

Reception Location: Reception Location: Conference Level 1 LobbyConference Level 1 Lobby

Presentation Location: Presentation Location: Conference Level 1, Ballroom 1Conference Level 1, Ballroom 1

Why aren’t we making more money? Doesn’t everyone want the fi nancial security that more money provides? The answers to these questions are often more complicated than the questions themselves.

Jean, fi nancial editor for NBC’s Today, contributing editor for Money magazine, colum-nist for The New York Daily News, featured money coach on Oprah’s “Debt Diet” series, and best selling author of “Make Money, Not Excuses“, believes the reason most people aren’t wealthier is that we tend to get in our own way, setting up roadblocks or relying on excuses that thwart us on the way towards achieving our fi nancial goals.

In an illuminating discussion about the nature of money and wealth, Chatzky locates the real reasons why people rely on these excuses. She also provides strategies for ridding ourselves of these success-blocking excuses, putting audiences on the path towards real wealth, real fi nancial security – and peace of mind.

Special Keynote PresentationSpecial Keynote PresentationMake Money Not Excuses... Even in a Recession!Make Money Not Excuses... Even in a Recession!

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SUMMER CONVENTION & TRADE SHOWWWW.CHASHOW.ORGWWW.CHASHOW.ORG

CHAFiles_CraftMoney.indd 1 6/3/08 12:25:27 PM


Kids’ Creation Station

This enclosed glass display case will be located

in the Main Lobby throughout the duration

of the Show. Exhibiting members will display finished Kids’ Crafting projects, along with accompanying project sheets that attendees can use to duplicate the displays in their own stores or for their in-store classes.

Kids’ Crafts Marketing GuideBe sure to pick up a free copy of the CHA Kids’ Crafting Marketing Guide at this Summer’s Convention & Trade Show. The Guide will offer tips, tricks and insights on how to effectively market children’s products. Content for this publication has been provided by Cindy Groom-Harry at Craft Marketing Connections, a leading design, development and marketing support fi rm in the craft and hobby industry. For more information on CMC, visit www.craftmarketingconnections.com.

Designer DisplayCHA Designer Members will design kids crafting projects using CHA Exhibiting Manufacturers’ products in these four areas: Scrapbooking, Art Materials, Fabric and General Crafts. Designers will be on hand throughout the show demonstrating some of the projects found within the display as well as to answer any questions about the display, located in Hall F, aisle 4400. ●

CHA’s Summer Show Event:CHA’s Summer Show Event:

Be a Kid AgainUnwind, Relax, Remember…… playgrounds, ballparks, parties, sleepovers… all the fun you had as a kid! This summer join CHA to relive it all. Get ready to…

Giggle while you dance to ‘70s disco and ‘80s pop music

Play limbo and trivia games

Win prizes and take home “one of a kind” party favors

Enjoy drinks and dinner… specially prepared fi nger foods and make-your-own desserts. After a trip to the past, this evening will leave you smiling ear to ear!

E504

Be a Kid AgainSaturday, July 19 6:00pm- 10:00pm Member: $45, On-Site: $75Non Member: $75, On-Site $100

Ticket includes dinner and (2) drink tickets

Location: Hyatt Regency O’Hare, Rosemont Ballroom

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CHAFiles_BeAKid.indd 1 6/3/08 10:58:15 AM


s’ Creation StationKidhi l d

Kids’ Crafts Marketing GuideB t i k f f th

Designer DisplayCHA D i M b

On the Show Floor: Tap into Kids’ Crafting*

Note: This is the show theme only. No children under the age of 14 are permitted in any exhibit hall at any time, including children registered for show badges by adults. Infants (babes-in-arms) are allowed during show hours but they must be carried at all times.*


Badges and Ticket Distribution• No badges or tickets will be mailed

in advance of the show.• ExpressPass® barcodes will be sent

by email to all attendees or order contacts that provided a valid email address for each badge name on both June 25 and July 9, 2008.The emailed ExpressPass®

message contains a hyperlink that must be opened to view and print the barcode. The barcode can then be scanned at the ExpressPass® Badge Pick-up counters in the main lobby of the D.E. Stephens Convention Center.

Invalid e-mail addresses will result in non-receipt of the ExpressPass®. Please verify accuracy in the badge registration fi eld online and use each registrant’s individual e-mail address.

Show Registration Information• Pre-registration for CHA member

companies to register for badges/tickets will be available online at www.chashow.org until July 15, 2008.

• On-site Registration with on-site pricing begins July 16, 2008 in the main lobby of the D.E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill.

• ExpressPass® Badge/Ticket Pick-Up counters will be open during the on-site Registration hours listed below. Staff will assist all customers in scanning and printing their badge/ticket order.Additional badge names or ticket

purchases can be handled at the appropriate staffed registration desk during on-site Registration area hours.

On-site Registration and Show HoursWednesday, July 16, 2008

7:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. ExpressPass® Badge/

Ticket Pick-Up

8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Exhibitor Move-in*

(Manufacturer reps will not be allowed show fl oor access)10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Education/Event Desk

10:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Exhibitor

Registration Desks

Thursday, July 17, 2008


Ticket Pick-Up & All Registration Desks

7:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Education/Event Desk

8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Exhibitor Move-in*

Friday, July 18, 2008




9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Show Floor open

Saturday, July 19, 2008




9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Show Floor open

Sunday, July 20, 2008

8:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. CHA Member & Non-

Member Desks only

9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Show Floor open4:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. Exhibitor Move-out*

Monday, July 21, 2008

8:00 a.m.-12 noon Exhibitor Move-out*

with proper badge and identifi cation

* Exhibitor badges or Install & Dismantle (I&D) staff with proper badge and identifi cation will be allowed on the show fl oor for move-in July 16, 2008; Manufacturer Rep badges will be allowed for move-in July 17, 2008 only. I&D personnel must have insurance forms on fi le with the CHA Show Offi ce. ●

For up-to-date show information, visit our website: www.chashow.org

On-Site Registration Information

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Ready…set…craft! Join Mark Montano, from TLC’s While You Were Out, twice a day as he hosts Mark Montano’s 10 Minute Craft

Challenge – a fast paced, high-energy crafting competition! Audience members will be randomly selected to compete for exciting prizes from CHA exhibitors as they show off their crafting capabilities. Stick around for the fun and you might be chosen next. ●

Mark Montano’s 10 Minute Craft Challenge


CHA members are invited to participate in one of three CHA task forces to be conducted on-site at the

CHA 2008 Summer Show. We need your input on these important issues now being addressed. A CHA staff member will lead each discussion to better understand member needs and concerns. Complimentary beverages will be served. Bring your lunch or purchase from nearby cash lunch carts.

If you are interested in participating, or for more information, please email Semo Sennas, CHA Marketing Program Manager, at [email protected] with your CHA Member ID and your task force preference. If you do not have internet access, call CHA at (201) 835-1218.

As soon as the Summer Show task force members are fi nalized, you will receive an email confi rmation.

Task force participation is fi rst come, fi rst served until the limit is reached. Only one person from each company will be selected for each task force to get a more balanced group. Sign up now!

CHA Summer Show Task Force Schedule

CHA Member Networking SiteTask Force Objective: To obtain CHA member input on the new CHA Member Networking Site, a message board for CHA members to communicate with each other. Participants will be asked to provide input on how CHA can increase member participation and better utilization of this site. Participants: 10-12 CHA members Timing: Friday, July 18, 2008, 11:30-12:30 a.m. (Room 54)

CHA Public Relations ProgramTask Force Objective: To obtain

CHA member input on Public Relations strategies and programs. Participants will be asked for input on how CHA can provide more meaningful public relations/promotional programs for all member types.Participants: 10-12 CHA membersTiming: Friday, July 18, 2008, 12:30-1:30 p.m. (Room 56)

CHA “Young Leaders” Task ForceTask Force Objective: To obtain CHA member input on how to attract younger professionals (under 40 years old) to become more involved in CHA as a way to develop future leaders, e.g., Board committees and Board of Directors members. Participants: 10-12 CHA members under the age of 40.Timing: Saturday, July 19, 2008, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (Room 54) ●

CHA 2008 Summer Show Highlights

Get Involved…Sign Up for a Task Force!

© ANDRESR | DREAMSTIME.COM


CHA BOOTHStop by the CHA booth located in the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center lobby for answers to any of your questions or to share your ideas. Meet the directors of the CHA Board and representatives from the Member Connect Committee, who are your direct link to the association’s leadership. CHA staff also will be available to discuss member benefi ts or answer questions about association membership.

CYBER CAFÉStay in touch via e-mail from the show fl oor with computer terminals and free access to the Internet. The Cyber Café will be located in Hall F. While online, visit www.chashow.org to search for exhibitors and products at the show. Then, you can print out a list to assist you as you walk the show fl oor.

PACKAGE CHECKING & SHIPPINGEliminate the need to carry your show materials with you all day long and on your trip home. A UPS Package Desk will be located in the main lobby for show attendee use only from Friday, July 18 to Sunday, July 20 from 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. each day.

PRIVATE APPOINTMENT HOURSFrom 7:30 a.m.-9:00 a.m. (July 19-20), the convention and trade show floor is open to buyers specifically invited by exhibitors. Buyers must speak with an exhibitor to pre-schedule an appointment, and the exhibitor must meet the buyer at the show entrance and escort that individual to the booth.

RESTAURANT RESERVATIONSPlan your after-show events and make reservations at recommended restaurants with the professionals at the Reservation Service kiosk. This reservation service is available to CHA show participants during the 2008 Summer Show. The staff can assist you with large dining and hospitality events.

MESSAGE CENTERThis message board, in the Registration Area, is the place where show attendees can communicate with friends and colleagues. You may use the board to post messages or to swap tickets for educational events.

COMPLIMENTARY SHUTTLE SERVICEIf you have made your hotel reservations through Par Avion, Inc., the offi cial housing bureau for the Summer Show, complimentary shuttle bus service will be provided for you. Travel to and from the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center and CHA’s offi cial hotels will run on a regular basis July 17 through July 20. Shuttle service is not provided at hotels that are within walking distance to the Convention Center. Evening classes also are covered by this service.

WHEELCHAIRS AND SCOOTERSWheelchairs can be ordered in advance from Rosemont Exposition Services by calling Cindy Wilson at (847) 993-4653. Pricing is $25/day for a standard wheelchair and $75/day for a motorized scooter. They can be picked up at the rental area in the main lobby by Hall F; on-site requests can be made at the same location.

For more CHA Summer Show details, go to www.chashow.org. ●

On-Site Services

Be sure to visit these 64 newSummer Showexhibitors (as of May 29, 2008)

ACCO Brands Inc – 545Arte Latin-Oh! LLC – 1842Artytart Inc – 3602B. Shackman Company, Inc –

1008Braggables – 2643Britstitch – 815Chicory Chic Inc – 2422China Craft Source – 2404Clear Scraps – 4124Combat Creations – 3014Core’dinations ColorCore

Cardstock – 4025Corel Corporation – 2851Cornish Heritage Farms – 2352Crafter’s Cafe, Inc. – 128Crafting Cruises – 2426Crescent Cardboard Co div

Potomac Corp – 332Eco-Crafts Enterprises Inc. – 100F M Brush Co Inc – 644Flower Soft- Katy Sue Designs

Ltd – 4115Frog’s Whiskers Ink – 3918GCD Studios, Inc – 1038

Gioielli Italy – 2314Go Beads – 522Graphic 45 LLC – 2202Gutermann of America Inc – 917Hanna Stamps – 4011Helix USA Ltd – 3315Intuit, div of QuickBooks

POS – 1012Jennan Ent LLC/Scrapbookers

Painted Page – 2714Jenni Bowlin Studio – 3927Joui International LLC – 4313K & M of Virginia Inc – 345Logan Graphic Products Inc – 732Lux Products Corporation – 4014MacPherson’s – 544Mollie and Mac, LLC – 2414Multi-Up Enterprises Co Ltd –

2411Natures Paper LLC – 2420Neatnix – 3508Night Light Designs – 421on the dot – 2215Papillon Ribbons & Bow

Company – 1034

Pink Paislee – 4125Preserve It Frames – 3815The Rare Orchid – 2418Ribbons House – 921Ricochet Development – 4016Scor-Pal Products Ltd – 3920Scrap Within Reach – 4012Scrapbook Wallborders – 3802ScrapMap – 2319ScrapOnizer – 3914Secrist Doll Company – 129Serendipity Puzzle Co – 427Sillycone Inc – 126Staedtler Inc – 645Starman Inc – 525The Orb Factory – 120Three Springs Beading & Jewelry,

Inc. – 532Total Class Creative LLC – 639Townsend Atelier – 725Widget Products Inc – 914World Piece Emporium – 1010ZJZY International Inc. – 3917


WHEREConference Room 2, Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

HOURSOpen Thursday, July 17 to Sunday, July 20 from 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

NEW! Press Registration RequirementsTo be eligible for a press badge, each media representative must present

valid press credentials individually. The Press Room is restricted to qualifi ed media and editorial staff only. If pre-registered by the posted deadline, your press badge will be located in the Press Room.

Complete registration information and policies can be found under the Press Overview section of www.chashow.org. This includes information for freelancers, photographers and videographers hired by a media outlet; electronic media representatives; and advertising and sales representatives, public relations, marketing or design staff.

FOR EXHIBITORSNote that there is NO photography permitted on the show fl oor unless photographers and videographers display special photo permits. Even then, photography and video is

dependent upon YOUR desire to participate. You have the right to grant or deny photography of you, your products, your staff and your booth to the media or show attendees. Professional photography services are also available onsite through Rosemont Exposition Services.

The Press Room is a private area designated for registered members of the press ONLY and is a place the media can secure exhibitor or designer press kits, as well as conduct interviews and editorial meetings. CHA Summer Show exhibitors are welcome to provide press kits for the media covering the show.

Press KitsPress kits are editorial materials that include product and company press releases, fact sheets, company backgrounders, product sales sheets, photos and product samples, among other items that help tell your business story to the press.

Press Kit DeliveryAvoid the rush or having to carry boxes to the Press Room by using pre-addressed labels for direct shipment (to arrive by July 17). These labels can be found under the Press Overview Section of www.chashow.org. If you prefer, please deliver about 150 press kits to the Press Room on July 17 from 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

NEW! Press Kit Award Submission ProcessCHA is pleased to announce the NEW submission process for the Golden Press Kit and the Golden


Press Room

continued on page 22


Anyone looking to write a book about the history of the arts and crafts industry would do well to

speak with the folks at William Korr Sales, an Indianapolis-based group of manufacturer representatives. Company President Bruce Korr, his brothers, Elliott and Jerry, and their two business partners, Marty Schwartz and George Baker, have more than a century of combined experience with the company. Jerry Korr retired to Las Vegas six years ago due to health reasons, but his father, Bill, who founded the company in 1961, is still in the mix at age 92 and is only “semi-retired,” Bruce Korr said.

William Korr Sales, which also has offi ces in the Chicago area and in Brecksville, Ohio, did more than $10 million in retail sales last year. The company’s four-man team travels across the Midwest selling manufacturers’ goods to clients of all types – retail stores, wholesalers, catalogue and mail-order houses and even web-based businesses.

“A manufacturer representative is like a matchmaker,” Bruce Korr said. “A representative is an extension of your company and gives you the opportunity to have more individuals simultaneously praising the good of your products, as opposed to you doing it on your own one at a time. You’re trying to put product where it belongs, and you’re also trying more

than anything else to enhance the profi tability of both your customer and the vendor that you represent.”

Korr said companies benefi t in many ways by having a manufacturer representative instead of setting up their own full-time sales staff, but the main advantage is cost savings.

“As independent contractors, we’re responsible for 100 percent of our own expenses, which includes health insurance and every other kind of thing that you’d need to

run a business,” Korr said. “So if someone were to have an in-house person doing the same thing, they would be paying a salary, expenses, and benefi ts, and the territory may or may not generate enough income to pay for a full-time person.

“As a manufacturer representative, you accumulate numerous vendors who might not be big enough individually to sustain a sales force, but if you add them up together, it makes sense.”

William Korr Sales represents such companies as Krylon, a division of The Sherwin Williams Co. that produces aerosol paint products; Polyform Products Co., the makers of Sculpey® clay; Midwest Products Co. Inc., which offers a variety of specialty wood products and model airplane and boat kits; and FPC Corp., which specializes in glue guns and other fastening products. The sales team markets these products to

CHA member profile

William Korr Sales is a Family AffairManufacturers Representatives Set up Shop in 1961

continued on page 22

“A manufacturer representative is like a matchmaker. You’re trying

to put product where it belongs, and you’re also trying more than

anything else to enhance the profitability of both your customer

and the vendor that you represent.”

– Bruce Korr, president of William Korr Sales

Bill Korr, 92, founded William Korr Sales in 1961.


more than 500 customers, Korr said, including Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft Stores and Pat Catan’s Craft Centers.

“Our corporate mantra has always been, ‘Basics, basics, basics,’ and so we’ve lessened our dependence on what you would consider perhaps exotic merchandise and try to keep our focus on nuts and bolts, things that are used up every single day and need to be replenished, and by that I mean things like adhesives, felt, fl oral accessories and supplies, just basic consumables,” Korr said. “That’s what we’ve always tried to use to guide us.”

Over the years, Korr has seen trends come and go as the industry has grown and matured.

“The thing that has always been the same is that the industry is trend-driven. Something gets hot and it’s good for fi ve, six, seven years, and it never really goes away. It just sort of falls to an also-ran category and will come back in another 10 years.”

Another thing that hasn’t changed is Korr’s enthusiasm for his job.

“What I like about being a manufacturer representative is that every day is different,” he said. “I wake up on a Monday and I may go south, and I wake up on a Tuesday and I may go north, and I wake up on a Wednesday and I may not be going anywhere at all. And the constant change of it is very refreshing. Plus, I’m a people person. I like seeing people, so it’s fun to go out and just visit with folks as a part of the job. It’s always fresh.” ●

Designer Press Kit Awards. To participate in these awards, please follow these guidelines:• Exhibiting companies should submit ONE more elaborate,

creative press kit entry for Golden Press Kit judging to the Press Room no later than Friday, July 18.

• All creative press kit award submissions will be put on display in the press room for members of the press to handle and examine featuring a tag with the submitting company and booth number.

• Companies are also encouraged to provide 150 separate, standard press kits (with product samples if desired) that will be distributed to the members of the press. These kits are simpler than the creative press kit submitted for judging.

• Judging will be completed on 7/18, and winners will be announced on 7/19.The press kit award process changed in response to

requests from the media to reduce the size of press kits, and efforts to reduce the cost of production for members, while still encouraging exhibitor creativity.

Post Your Press Releases OnlineBy using the new CHA Member Networking Site, you can upload up to two of your show press releases free of charge. Go to www.craftandhobby.org and follow the link shown to access the Member Networking Site. Sign in (or create a new account), then select Create Content from the left side navigation menu, then select Forum topic. Be sure to select “Member Press Releases” from the Forums dropdown menu, then copy and paste your press release information into the text window shown and click “submit.” You may also add an accompanying digital image (2 MB maximum) by selecting Image under the Create content menu. For help, e-mail Victor Domine, PR Manager, at [email protected]. ●

Press Room continued from page 20 William Korr Sales continued from page 21

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Retailers who get their information about retailing from the popular press or from political rhetoric

believe that declining sales is the biggest problem in retailing. As a retail owner, you know differently (you do, don’t you?)!

In reverse order, here are the fi ve primary reasons why retail businesses don’t survive over the long term. While they all deserve respect from the craft store owner or CEO, your highest priority should always be the number one reason below – and it just might surprise you to learn what it is.

Here’s the countdown to the top reason for retail business failures:

5. Out-of-Control Growth“Yesterday, we were fl ying

along with a booming business,

and today, we’re on the brink of bankruptcy...” is a story we have heard often. Words like these are spoken by retailers who fail to understand the importance of failing to manage growth.

If you are considering expansion into new lines, new departments or new locations, you cannot ignore the management of your balance sheet. Expansion is successful only when your balance sheet gets stronger. What is your debt-to-worth ratio now? What will it be a year or two

from now? Growth will only be an affordable option when it is the result of careful fi nancial planning.

Growth of any kind means an increase in assets, which can be purchased either with excess profits or an increase in debt. Estimating those changes will result in a projected debt-to-worth ratio, which is the best measurement of a company’s financial strength that exists. (Note: If you must shrink your business, the same ratio should be your guide.)

Five Reasons Retail Businesses Don’t SurviveBY PATRICIA M. JOHNSON AND RICHARD F. OUTCALT

CO-FOUNDERS, THE RETAIL OWNERS INSTITUTE®

Keep this in mind: over one-third of the retail businesses that fail

are actually profitable. They simply run out of cash when their

creditors have run out of patience.

©WWW.ISTOCKPHOTO.COM


4. Out-of-Control ExpensesProductivity. Making each dollar

count. Getting the greatest return on each dollar spent. Yes, we’re talking about expense management, which may sound like an old idea, but today, it’s more important than ever. Ignore it at your business’ risk!

In retailing, your major expenses may seem fi xed (e.g., premises, permanent staff salaries) and these costs must be covered by margin dollars, whether sales are strong or weak. But there are areas with variable expenses where you can likely cut costs. Be creative! Ask your staff for help on cost-saving ideas.

Budgeting, of course, should be your main tool for keeping expenses down. A pro forma (projected) Income Statement is a necessity. You must forecast expenses and adhere to budget guidelines, then tie that discipline to dealing with item #3 next: Gross Margin.

3. Failing to Manage Gross MarginInadequate gross margin

management is the next contributor to failed businesses. As a retailer, you must not ignore the message of your gross margin. Don’t ask, “How are my sales?” but rather, the more important question, “How are my gross margin dollars contributing to operating profit?” By department,

by vendor, even by SKU, what are the trends? What are my options?

As a general rule in retailing today, gross margins are dropping. (Take a moment to look at the Gross Margin trends in the Hobby, Toy and Game Stores page on The ROI website, accessed through www.craftandhobby.org. Then look at some other segments as well.) This is caused by the largest retailers incessantly cutting their operating expenses, then lowering their needed margins so they can lower their retail prices to compete better with the other large retailers. Sadly, many independent retailers get caught in this downward spiral. You must not!

Specialty retailers who remain “special” can actually raise their margins in many cases. The key is “better buying for your better customers.”

Another key to managing gross margin is using a tool called the GMROI – Gross Margin Return on (Inventory) Investment – to compare departments, lines or products. The GMROI should be in every retailer’s arsenal. Take a year’s gross margin dollars for a particular product line and divide by the average cost value of inventory in that product line. Compare this dollar return with other product lines. (Or, use The ROI’s online GMROI Calculator.)

2. Out-of-Control InventoryAll retail businesses that carry

inventory have special problems. Inventory is the “engine” of the business; it generates all of the gross margin dollars and is responsible for customer satisfaction (or the lack thereof). It also has another unique feature: the pressure to buy more and more. This can come from well-intentioned employees, current and new vendors, customers asking for new or different items, or being able to offer what a competitor is carrying, etc.

But inventory also ties up cash (often lots of it). How do you offset all this pressure to over-buy or buy the wrong thing? The retailer pros always budget their inventory by buying with an Open-To-Buy system set up by department, classifi cation or store. Then, they follow the budget because they respect their OTB plan as highly as any responsibility they have.

1. Being Out of Cash“Profi t cures a lot of ills, but cash

fl ow pays the banker’s bills.” Poor cash management is the number one reason retail businesses fail. Producing profi ts may be the sign of a good business but profi ts matter very little if a business runs out of cash. What keeps retail businesses running is enough cash coming in so that purchases can be made and fi nancial obligations can be met at all times.

CHA members can cash in on a new member benefit valued

at $499 a year. CHA is providing – FREE to all members

during 2008 – access to The Retail Owners Institute®

website, the foremost self-help resource for retail finance

on the Internet.

The ROI’s business tools and advice—including online

calculators to plan, manage and control your inventory, debt,

cash and profits, a 200+ page library of financial planning

and management how-to articles, training courses and

much more – are designed to help retailers beat the

“business failure odds” and achieve success.

The information is in a format that’s fun and easy-to-use,

even for accounting novices!

This self-help resource has been created for retailers, by

retailers – and with everything online, the information is

ready for you when you need it – 24 hours a day, 7 days

a week. Stop searching for help with inventory control,

cash flow, turnover, creditors and more. The ROI is here

to provide you with solutions to even your toughest retail

business issues.

Throughout 2008, all members of the Craft & Hobby

Association have free and unlimited access to The ROI’s

self-help resources, including its extensive Members-Only

Collection. Improve your business’ chance of survival.

Log onto The ROI website through the link on the home

page of www.craftandhobby.org.

The Retail Owners Institute® – FREE WEBSITE ACCESS TO CHA MEMBERS IN 2008!

s been created fo


Mismanaging cash can quickly lead to the following problems: • Weakened relationships with

suppliers when payments become irregular.

• Loss of prompt payment discounts.• Weakened relationships with lenders.• Increased borrowing with more

fi nance charges and interest expenses. Bankers are hesitant to deal

with retailers who cannot indicate a working knowledge, on paper, of their cash fl ow. These owners generally haven’t prepared and used a cash-fl ow budget, which is a plan for forecasting cash balances, cash receipts and cash disbursements. It is simple, but essential. It helps you anticipate how much money you will need to borrow,

and when. Most critically, it enables you to tell the lender when you will pay back the loan.

A cash-fl ow budget is the best tool for keeping a tight rein on the fl ow of funds into and out of your store. Unfortunately, many retailers don’t consider this type of budgeting a top priority for themselves. The consequence can be, and often is, a business failure.

Keep this in mind: over one-third of the retail businesses that fail are actually profi table. They simply run out of cash when their creditors have run out of patience. And fi nally, last year in the U.S. alone, on average, one retailer failed every eleven-and-a-half minutes, 24/7, 365 days. To be sure, all of those failures

would be traceable to one or more of the fi ve reasons we’ve explained in this article. Do not let it happen to you! ●

Considered the foremost authorities on strategic retailing, Pat Johnson and Dick Outcalt are the co-founders of The Retail Owners Institute®, a totally online resource for independent retailers at www.RetailOwner.com. A virtual “WebMD for retailers,” The ROI website offers proven self-help resources – by retailers, for retailers – including a 200+ page library of fi nancial planning and management how-to articles, online calculators, training courses, and much more. © 2008 by The Retail Owners Institute®. All rights reserved.

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Now, at a time when you need to get the most out of your membership dollar, CHA is stepping up its game and adding more value to your membership. “Conspire To Succeed” by taking full advantage of your member benefi ts.

Here are two new programs for CHA members:

Staples Business Advantage Program – This new benefi t lets even the smallest CHA member company purchase print and offi ce supplies at great prices. CHA members can register for this

program through the Member Benefi ts page of www.craftandhobby.org. Once registered, members can receive discounts online (at www.stapleslink.com), by phone or any Staples store outlet.

Public Relations 101 – Tips and guidelines to help members create effective press releases, media alerts and press kits are available in the Member Benefi ts area of www.craftandhobby.org. These tools support our member education program which will include a Webinar on the subject and seminar at the CHA 2008 Summer Convention & Trade Show.

If you have questions about these or other member benefi ts contact memberbenefi [email protected].

Member Connect. Give input and get involved in your association! The Member Connect Committee (formerly Member Linkage) was formed to provide members with an easy way to communicate with the Board of Directors. The committee is comprised of board members who have hands-on knowledge of CHA as well as business experience in the craft industry. That makes them a great resource to you, as well as a perfect body to hear your questions, concerns and suggestions about CHA, your vision for CHA and the craft and hobby industry as a whole. Email [email protected] and be heard.

The Member Connect Committee for 2008 is: John Laurie, Coats & Clark, Inc. (Chair); Jane Anne Davis, BagWorks Inc.; Bob Ferguson, Ferguson Merchandising, LLC/Ben Franklin Crafts; Cindy Groom-Harry, Craft Marketing Connections, Inc.; Maureen Ruth, Creative Marketing Solutions; and Carolyn Schulz, Creative Solutions. ●

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CHA-CHING. Your CHA Member$hip

d t t th t t f

Has Big Value!

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CHA members can now connect year-round on the newly created CHA Member Networking

Site. The members-only message board, which can be accessed through www.craftandhobby.org, is a place members can post, test and develop their business ideas; learn from others who’ve “been there” and contribute to the dynamic pool of industry knowledge through information exchange.

Discussion takes place on several topics, called “Forums” which now include the trade show, products, networking and business building. Network users can also post their company’s latest press releases for the media to access. So, if you… Need input on solving a problem? Want to “add your two cents?” You can begin a discussion or add to one! Sign up with your email address on fi le with CHA

through the link on www.craftandhobby.org. If you have questions about this or other CHA member benefi ts, write to memberbenefi [email protected]. ●

Member Buzz on the CHA Member Networking Site

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“I think the site is wonderful. Thank you and your team for providing us such a great tool. I am very excited to see the impact it will make in our industry. I hope the membership participates and takes advantage of it.”

– Ryann Juden, Piggy Tales

Business BuildingHave advice, or need some, on how to establish or operate

a craft related business? Topics including, but not limited

to, merchandising, marketing, legal, financing, staffing are

welcome here.

Member Press ReleasesNeed to get your company’s “hot” news to the media? Post

your company’s recent press release here with attachments

up to 2 Mb. Members of the media can view and download

information posted in this forum.

NetworkingSelling a business or looking to buy one? In addition, topics

like staffing needs, inventory liquidation locating a domestic

or international distributor, finding new clients and/or basic

career related inquiries can be found here. But, no resumes

please – this is not intended to be a job board at this time.

ProductsWant feedback on a new product idea or need

marketing tips? Post notice of excess inventory,

sales or exchange opportunities as well. Add a link

to your website to share full product information,

if desired.

Trade ShowComments or peer-to-peer questions about the CHA

Convention & Trade Show can be posted here. Include

ticket exchanges, networking opportunities and education

comments and suggestions, if you’d like.

Suggestions & CommentsHave an idea or two on how to improve the Network?

This is the place to express your thoughts for new forum

topics and ideas about how to make the site more useful

to members.

Member Networking Site Forum Descriptions


of the industry. CHA makes it quick, fun and easy for you and your customers to participate.

How can you get involved? Visit the Promotions & Events section of www.craftandhobby.org, where you will fi nd tips and ideas for retailers that will give you a jump-start on your own local promotion. The site is a valuable resource that provides CHA members with information on how to run in-store events. It provides press release templates and other valuable information for maximizing the seasonal strengths of holiday crafting. Retailers can utilize the CHA Local Retailers Press Materials where CHA has posted press releases, media alerts and public service announcement templates designed to be customizable for individual companies and local media attention.

CHA National Spokesperson Terri O. will also conduct a satellite media tour on radio and TV stations across the country, featuring CHA member products. CHA will also organize a Make-it/Take-it Media Event in New York City in which CHA will invite members of the national press to discover exciting kids holiday crafts and products from CHA member manufacturers. If you would like to submit for consideration a great holiday-themed product that is easy enough for a child to make or use, e-mail that information by August 8, 2008 to Terri O. at [email protected].

Get involved with Celebrate the Season and see how easy it is to build incremental awareness of your own local business that will result in greater awareness and sales. ●

Although September seems a long way off, it’s really just around the corner, and NOW is the perfect time to prepare your business and customers for the upcoming holiday season.

Each September, CHA sponsors a national retail promotion called Celebrate the Season. The promotion begins in the fall and focuses on craft products and project ideas for Halloween, Thanksgiving, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah and Christmas.

This year, the theme of the promotion is Kids’ Crafting, and will focus on holiday crafting for kids and families. All CHA members are encouraged to participate in this annual event to help drive consumer crafting across all segments

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Marketing: Celebrate the Season Promotion

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In March, CHA celebrated the 14th annual National Craft Month promotion with the debut of a new logo design. During March

over 100 news stories ran, reminding 124 million readers across the country about National Craft Month. Blogs, online editorial, and business websites delivered the National Craft Month message to another 40 million consumers. CHA sponsored a satellite media tour featuring Terri O. and 12 member companies - Artytart Inc., The Beadery, Deco Art, Inc., Duncan Enterprises, Expo International, Inc., Janlynn, JudiKins, Kandi Corp, Museables, Simply Swank, Walnut Hollow, and Wiley Publishing, Inc. The messages aired on network stations including USA, Bravo, TBS, TNT, and on local stations in 39 markets to more than 1.2 million viewers. Additionally, an Audio News

Release and radio interviews ran on 914 radio stations to more than 35 million listeners across the country.

Manufacturers, retailers and wholesalers alike benefited from the month-long promotion by using the new National Craft Month logo, CHA promotional materials like posters and window clings as well as the free localized retailer press kit downloaded from www.craftandhobby.org. Over 126 thousand crafters went to www.craftplace.org for craft ideas and to search for their local craft retailer.

To create a timely, rich, newsworthy media platform for CHA members, a theme of fashion crafting was established for this promotion. The fashion crafting theme prompted the media to explore crafting as part of fashion and lifestyle trends the craft and hobby industry is actively

shaping. By all accounts this year’s National Craft Month promotion was a huge success resulting in member participation, greater consumer awareness of crafting, as well as extensive media exposure in newspapers, TV, radio and on the Internet. ●

Local members invited to participate

Is your business located in northern Utah? If so, you may receive a mailed invitation to attend the Friday night session on October 17, 2008 when the Board of Directors meeting begins at the Hotel Park City, located in Park City, Utah.

Local CHA members are invited to attend evening sessions of the Board of Directors meetings when they are located in nearby areas. CHA hopes you will accept the invitation when

your company is notified to come and participate. You will have an opportunity to meet the CHA Board members and give your input on business challenges and opportunities. Also, members will be invited to attend a presentation by a featured speaker that evening. During the Board meeting in May 2008, Economist Bernard Baumohl gave a presentation about the U.S. economy and ways that retailers and manufacturers can survive and prosper. View the presentation by visiting the Education section of www.craftandhobby.org. ●

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National Craft Month: March Madness

CHA Board of Directors Meeting


Preserve-It Frames and Ranger Industries are the fi rst participating members in CHA’s NEW online

workshop sponsorship. These video programs will be available for purchase after the Summer Show on CHA’s Online Learning Center.

W002 Think Outside the Scrapbook Sponsor: Preserve It FramesInstructor: Theresa Cifali

Why tuck your scrapbook pages into a book? Think outside the scrapbook with Preserve It Frames.

The do-it-yourself kits protect pages from fading and have 1/4” of depth for 3D embellishments. We will show you different techniques for painting/decorating frames and layouts.

W012 All Things Adirondack®

Sponsor: Ranger IndustriesInstructor: Tim Holtz

Get ready to celebrate everything Adirondack® with Ranger and Tim Holtz. Learn how to bring all of the Adirondack® products together for a technique-packed project to showcase ways to effectively teach and sell this

popular color palette and versatile product line!

Members may access these programs by selecting the Education link on the association Web site at www.craftandhobby.org and then selecting “Online Learning Center.” By linking to Impact Media Solutions and creating an account, these inexpensive but content rich programs can be ordered and are available in a variety of formats: audio CD, MP3 audio CD or as a Webinar. ●

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Kevin Allison is CHA’s Trade Show Marketing Coordinator. He joined the organization in October, 2006. Kevin oversees attendee and exhibitor communications for CHA trade shows, including the show preview guide, the show directory, e-mail and direct mail communications as well as coordinating all content for the show website.

“CHA has to continue to grow and be at the forefront of the craft industry and remain the hand that guides our members to prosperity,” Kevin said. “This all starts with the employees.”

Kevin has extensive experience in the trade

show industry, having spent over six years with George Little Management, a leading independent trade show marketing company in the U.S. While there, he worked as Public Relations Coordinator for several shows, as well as Show Coordinator for the Dallas Gift Show, with responsibilities including booth sales and management of the show offi ce on site.

Kevin grew up in the St. Catherine region of Jamaica, just minutes from the beach. He currently lives with his wife of 11 years and 9-year-old son in Bronx, N.Y. He’s an avid soccer fan, loves watching movies and enjoys cooking.

Staff ProfilesKevin Allison, Trade Show Marketing Coordinator

Sue Spivak is a Member Services Coordinator for CHA. Her primary responsibilities involve reviewing and preparing membership applications, ensuring proper business qualifi cations are in order, providing customer service and maintaining member records in the CHA database. While on site at the CHA shows, Sue can be found working at the events registration desk.

When the CEO’s executive assistant was on maternity leave, Sue came on board to fi ll

the temporary position. Commenting on her temporary appointment, she recalls saying to herself that “I must work for CHA.” Sue has now been with the organization for a year and a half.

Sue grew up in Hillsdale, N.J., where she graduated from Pascack Valley High School. Later she received her associate’s degree from Bergen Community College. Sue currently resides in Teaneck, N.J., with her 11 year old Shepherd mix, Sasha.

Sue Spivak, Member Services Coordinator

Workshop Sponsors Featured on CHA’s Online Learning CenterEducation on demand, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year!


Rob Bostick of JudiKins and Stamp, Stamp, Stamp and the CHA Awards Committee Chair, announced that the

committee is seeking nominations for the 2009 CHA Awards. The awards will be presented during the 68th CHA Convention & Trade Show in Anaheim, CA to be held January 25-28, 2009.

Nominees are being sought for the following awards:

The Meritorious Award of Honor is the highest award of recognition that CHA can bestow upon a member, past or present. This annual award acknowledges an individual who has made a signifi cant contribution to the association. The 2008 recipient of this award was Jim Bremer of Tall Mouse Arts & Crafts.

The Industry Achievement Award is granted to a CHA member who

has played a considerable role to the growth and vitality of the craft and hobby industry as a whole. For 2008, Carol Duvall was given this award for her work in promoting the craft industry on her long-running HGTV program, The Carol Duvall Show.

The Special Recognition Award is presented to an individual for an extraordinary contribution in an activity that showcases the craft and hobby industry in a positive way. The recipient for 2008 was Robert Workman of Provo Craft & Novelty for establishing Teaching Individuals and Families Independence through Enterprise (TIFIE) in 2007 to help eradicate poverty and improve living standards in The Democratic Republic of Congo.

Any CHA member may submit a nomination for review by the committee. Members are asked to provide information on each individual nominated. Besides Rob Bostick, the CHA Awards Committee includes Mark Peters and Elizabeth Boyle who will review the nominations and verify the nominees’ involvement in industry/association activities.

Deadline for nominations is August 31, 2008. All information will be kept confi dential and becomes the property of the CHA Awards Committee. An online Awards Nomination form can be accessed by visiting the Members Only section on www.craftandhobby.org or by contacting memberbenefi [email protected] for more information. ●

The CHA staff sends its best wishes to

Marketing Program Manager Semo Sennas who will be retiring after the CHA 2008 Summer Show in Rosemont, IL. He joined the association in April 2005 and brought his experience from the packaged goods industry and

his good-natured humor to the CHA team at that time. Semo’s innate ability to make everyone laugh, often at the end of a long staff meeting, will be missed most of all!

Semo’s immediate plans will be to travel to Italy with his wife Fran, who worked the CHA Booth over the past three years, and his two granddaughters,

Ryan and Casey. He plans to stay active playing tennis, gardening and skiing. His son Chris, daugher-in-law Mary and grandson Christopher reside in Utah.

If you see Semo at the Summer Show, don’t forget to thank him for his many contributions and wish him well on the next chapter of his life!

His legacy will live on. ●

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Call for 2009 Award Nominations

A Fond Farewell to Semo SennasDon’t think of retiring from the world until the world will be sorry that you retire. –Samuel Johnson


Having a feel for upcoming trends and acting on them can help you provide added value to your

customers while keeping an edge on your competition. The CHA Designer Trend Team has put together what to look out for as fall 2008 approaches.These are the latest trends as seen by the Design Trend Team:

Design Trends• Angels are a strong theme for

both Christmas and everyday, due to the trend towards spiritualism. The angels have a classic Byzantine and European look rather than a romantic Victorian look.

• Inspirational texts, inspiring words and messages are very popular for handmade ornaments and scrapbook pages.

• The color chocolate is the new black and can be found paired with soft blues, pinks, peaches and soft greens.

• Highly-stylized nature and animal themes, plus clean, graphic elements with clear positive and negative spaces are very popular,

especially with the millennial customer (born from 1980-1995).

• This is the “re” decade, with recycling, reusing and refurbishing still showing a strong infl uence in home décor items.

• Ornate arabesque style and paisley motifs are seen in fashion accessories for pendants, dangles and cuffs.

• Rich textures are playing an important role in the crafter’s tactile experience. This includes layered looks—images layered upon other images—that are seen in fashion crafting, necklaces and papers. Antique ephemera is popular as a feminine yet funky look.

Products • Handmade papers with heavy

textures – fabric feel, deeply embossed or fl ocked – are playing an important role in home décor crafting, as for wall hangings or creating unique wrapped beads for jewelry making.

• Using resin for jewelry making is growing, as paper beads are

dipped to seal the surface; new doming resins fi ll bezels with mini collages and photos.

• Craft kits are not just for kids anymore! Kits have become great gifts and educational tools, complete with a DVD with animated tutorials and materials for completing designs.

• Needle felting continues to grow in popularity, with more tools and molds to make it easier and quicker to create embellishments for wearables or accessories. Several companies now carry pre-made needle felted pieces such as fl owers, leaves, balls and other shapes to be combined for a hand-crafted look.

• Hi-tech accessories such as cell phones, iPods and CD cases will all need handcrafted cases and covers as they continue to be the top gift category. ●

Sizzling Hot this Fall! CHA Designer Trend Team Report

CHA Designer Trend TeamMarie Browning, chair

Kathy Cano Murillo, general crafts

Phyllis Dobbs, needlecrafts

Katie Hacker, beading and jewelry

Cindy Groom-Harry, kids crafts

Kristin Jankowicz, general crafts

Sandy Laipply, general paper crafts

Jill Mackay, jewelry fashions

Brenda Pinnick, paper crafts, painting

Debra Quartermain, wearables and accessories

Julie Stephani, home décor

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With constant change in the craft industry and in today’s economy, it’s a wonder anything can

survive over decades of time. Pack-o-Fun® magazine published

its very fi rst issue in 1951. Now, 57 years later, the magazine is still going strong, with over 30,000 subscribers and national and international newsstand circulation.

Surviving the times has been no small feat. In an industry in which magazines are being revamped or replaced, it is quite impressive that Pack-o-Fun® has endured and developed through decades of change.

The founder and original publisher, Edna Clapper, was a scouts den mother, constantly in search of low-budget and readily-available items to use for crafts at her weekly meetings. Creating on a nickel-a-week budget, Edna relied on household throwaways like leather scraps, empty coffee cans and recycled milk cartons.

Utilizing her creativity and innovativeness, Edna paired her “scrap craft” ideas with her husband, John’s, business sense. She used a rented mimeograph, a few reams of paper and a sewing machine to stitch together the very fi rst issue of Pack-o-Fun®.

For the fi rst few years, everything—designing, writing, printing, assembling and mailing—were done out of Edna and John Clapper’s home. They mailed their fi rst issues to random addresses in Battle Creek, Mich., and Jacksonville, Ill., taken from phone books on loan from neighbors. By word of mouth,

interest in Pack-o-Fun® quickly spread, and by 1952, Scouting magazine mentioned Pack-o-Fun® in a two-line reference. This resulted in orders for 100 subscriptions and an additional 100 single copy requests! Pack-o-Fun®

was now in business.

In 1976, Lyle Clapper, John and Edna’s son, took over the business. He and his wife, Marie, continued to promote Pack-o-Fun®’s scrap-crafting purpose as the only children’s crafting publication on the market. For the next 30 years, the Clappers helped Pack-o-Fun®

grow from hand-drawn images on a newsprint pamphlet into a full-color, photographed magazine.

In 2006, Amos Craft Publishing acquired Pack-o-Fun®. With redesigned layouts and constantly improved content, Pack-o-Fun® still

keeps within its scrap-crafting roots by promoting recyclable and “throw-away” items. The content has evolved to include curriculum-based sections like Art Smarts, Surrounded by Science and Literature Lift Off, which promote constructive, hands-on projects for classroom and school groups. A cultural arts feature called “Around the World” spotlights the traditional arts of a different country within each issue, showing readers how to replicate unique techniques using minimal or low-cost items. Ceramic Corner, another new feature, includes kid-friendly bisque projects and glaze-painting design ideas for paint-your-own-pottery studio visits. Scout crafts are still a regular staple of

each issue, as are basic supplies and everyday items.

Traditional scrap-crafting of the past paired with the innovative craft supplies of the present ensures that Pack-o-Fun® will continue to grow steadily and confi dently into the future. There are still requests for wire hanger

plastic bag poodles and walnut nativity ornaments, and there is a sense of pride when locating them in the archives. After all, how many crafting magazines can jog back a half a century? ●

Amos Craft Publishing will be located in Booth 433 in the General Crafts section of the CHA 2008 Summer Show.

guest publisher corner

Kids’ Crafting: Rooted in Pack-o-Fun® MagazineBY ANNIE NIEMIEC, EDITOR

PACK-O-FUN®, AMOS CRAFT PUBLISHING, INC.

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CONTAINERS & STORAGEAlpha Rho, Inc. .................................................. 34

CRAFT NOVELTIES & SUPPLIESBaby Tooth Album ............................................. 22

CRAFT SUPPLIES - WOOD, PLASTIC & FOAMMidwest Products Co., Inc. ...... Inside Back Cover

FABRIC/QUILTING/NEEDLECRAFTDonwei Machinery Industry Co., Ltd. .................... Inside Back Cover

FABRICS & CRAFTSJo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores ........................... 4

GENERAL CRAFTSBaby Tooth Album ............................................. 22

JEWELRY FINDING & SUPPLIESDarice, Inc. ........................................................ 11

KIDS CRAFT MATERIALSDarice, Inc. ........................................................ 11

LIGHT BOXESArtograph, Inc. .................................................... 3

MAGNIFICATION & OPTICAL TOOLSArtograph, Inc. .................................................... 3

PAPER CRAFTSBaby Tooth Album ............................................. 22Prism .................................................................. 13Retired...Let’s Do Lunch .................................... 34

PHOTO SUPPLIESPioneer Photo Albums ............ Inside Front Cover

QUILTING SUPPLIESClover Needlecraft, Inc. ........................ 25, 26, 34

RUBBER STAMPSStamping Bella, Inc. ........................................... 28

SCHOOL DIORAMASWoodland Scenics ............................................. 25

SCRAPBOOKING & STATIONERYBaby Tooth Album ............................................. 22

SCRAPBOOKING SUPPLIESBaby Tooth Album ............................................. 22Darice, Inc. ........................................................ 11

SEASONAL & HOLIDAY SUPPLIESRetired...Let’s Do Lunch .................................... 34

SERVICES: ADVERTISING/MARKETING/PRINTING/OTHERonlineitools.com ....................... Inside Back Cover

SPOT REMOVER PRODUCTSGrandma’s Secret Spot Remover ...................... 22

STATIONERY & SUPPLIESPaper Dames ..................................................... 34

WEDDING SUPPLIESRetired...Let’s Do Lunch .................................... 34

BAGS/PACKAGING/LABELING SUPPLIES

Alpha Rho, Inc.99 Stevens RoadFitchburg, MA 01420-0043Phone: (978) 345-6717Fax: (978) 342-1443Web: www.alpharho.comAlpha Rho is a leading manufacturer of rigid plastic boxes available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. Imprinting and foam pads also available Call 978-345-6717 or visit our website for a catalog- www.alpharho.com/cha.

PAPER CRAFTS

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Retired...Let’s Do Lunch1413 1/2 Kenneth Road PMB 63Glendale, CA 91201Phone: (818) 261-0021Fax: (818) 246-9044E-mail: [email protected]: www.retiredletsdolunch.com

Retired...Let’s Do Lunch has taken scrapping to a new dimension with the Chipboard “Gingerbread” House. These kits are die-cut and scored for easy assembly. Add a few paper embellishments and a little imagination to create a magical faux Gingerbread House. They are fun, creative and last for years.

QUILTING SUPPLIES

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Clover Needlecraft, Inc.13438 Alondra BoulevardCerritos, CA 90703Phone: (800) 233-1703Fax: (562) 282-0220E-mail: [email protected]: www.clover-usa.comClover Needlecraft, Inc. is a distributor/manufacturer of Clover Brand Products in the U.S.A. Clover specializes in high quality sewing notions, quilting accessories, embroidery tools and the well renowned “Takumi” Bamboo Knitting Needles and accessories. Clover products offer the highest quality, dependability, and overall value. Visit www.clover-usa.com for more information.

index to advertisers

advertisers.com

ART MATERIALS & FRAMINGArtograph, Inc. .................................................... 3

BAGS/PACKAGING/LABELING SUPPLIESAlpha Rho, Inc. .................................................. 34

BEADSJohn Bead Corp. ...................Outside Back Cover

Alpha Rho, Inc. ...................................................www.alpharho.com ..................................................................... 34Artograph, Inc. ...................................................www.artograph.com ..................................................................... 3Baby Tooth Album..............................................www.babytoothalbum.com......................................................... 22Clover Needlecraft, Inc. .....................................www.clover-usa.com ....................................................... 25, 26, 34Darice, Inc. ..........................................................www.darice.com ......................................................................... 11Donwei Machinery Industry Co., Ltd. ...............www.donwei.com.tw.......................................... Inside Back CoverGrandma’s Secret Spot Remover ......................www.grandmassecretspotremover.com ..................................... 22Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores .........................www.joann.com ............................................................................ 4John Bead Corp. ................................................www.johnbead.com ........................................Outside Back CoverMidwest Products Co., Inc. ...............................www.midwestproducts.com .............................. Inside Back Coveronlineitools.com .................................................www.onlineitools.com ........................................ Inside Back CoverPaper Dames ......................................................www.paperdames.com ............................................................... 34Pioneer Photo Albums .......................................www.pioneerphotoalbums.com ........................ Inside Front CoverPrism ...................................................................www.prismpapers.com ............................................................... 13Retired...Let’s Do Lunch ....................................www.retiredletsdolunch.com ...................................................... 34Stamping Bella, Inc. ...........................................www.stampingbella.com ............................................................. 28Woodland Scenics ..............................................www.woodlandsscenics.com ...................................................... 25

Visit our website atwww.clover-usa.com for more details.

Clover Needlecraft, Inc.

13438 Alondra Blvd.

Cerritos, CA 90703

Clover Pen Style Needle Felting Tool

First Ever Single, Double, TripleNeedle Felting Tool!

This new tool allows application of small or delicate materials using one, two, or three needles. The tool can be adjusted to two lengths of needle sizes that can be used with Clover’s Needle Felting Molds for 3-Dimensional designs and appliqué.

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For more information contact:Phone: 707-290-1787 • Fax: 866-755-8474

E-mail: [email protected]

Creation Station™ Stickers by

Paper Dames™

Choose from over thirty different sticker themes.

Each design is great for art projects like scrapbooking

and card making. Our quality and craftsmanship make these designs truly unique. Whether you love glitter, rhinestones, lace, fabric or felt, we have the

perfect design for you!

New!

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400 S. Indiana St. PO Box 564 Hobart, IN 46342(800) 348-3497 | www.midwestproducts.com

Attract Customers Who Work On:• Crafts • Architecture• Hobbies • Hardware• Arts • Education

Featuring:• Micro-Cut Quality Balsa,

Basswood and Plywood• Super Sheets• Cellfoam 88• Specialty Tools

Perfect For:• Memory Books• Cards• Gifts• Kids' Projects• Holidays• Home Decor

Grow YourCustomer Base . .Sell Our Building Materials!

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THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CRAFT & HOBBY ASSOCIATION

Documents

Transcript of THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE CRAFT & HOBBY ASSOCIATION