Design Theft Kills More Than Sales; It Steals Your Creative Joy
Design theft is a common – and demoralizing – problem for creators. And sadly, the larger your audience, the more vulnerable you are.
The Fall of Joann Stores: A Catalyst for Crafting’s Revival
The closure of Joann is the end of an era according to Tiffany Windsor, the daughter of the founder of Aleene’s Tacky Glue.
Needlepoint’s New Wave
Needlepoint is experiencing a lasting resurgence, fueled by social media and a new generation of stitchers. Once a pandemic hobby, it has evolved into a thriving community with stitch clubs, retreats, and fresh, modern designs. Shop owners report increased demand, especially among younger crafters, as needlepoint moves beyond traditional patterns to embrace contemporary aesthetics.
Crafting a Safety Net: Disaster Preparations for Studios and Small Businesses
For crafters and artists with their own studio spaces or small businesses, dealing with a natural disaster can be especially challenging.
As Joann Shutters, Independent Shops Get Ready for New Customers
The closure of all Joann stores marks a huge shift for the American craft community, leaving many without a go-to fabric and craft supply store. While this change is challenging, it also presents opportunities for local craft shops and creative reuse stores to welcome new customers. From independent fabric stores to secondhand craft supply options, there are still plenty of ways for crafters to find materials, support small businesses, and stay connected with their creative communities.
Black Jewelry Designers Bringing Bold Style to the Forefront
Discover two incredible Black-owned jewelry brands, ReynaBee Clay Co and Moon-Seed, founded by talented makers Reyna Davis and Cathy Williams. Each brand offers unique, handcrafted jewelry with personal stories and inspiration.
Joann to Begin Liquidation Sale at 533 Stores Tomorrow
JOANN, an 80-year-old retailer, is seeing a second bankruptcy limp towards liquidation, with bids due next week.
Bluesky for Craft Businesses: A Quick Start Guide
Bluesky is a next-generation social media platform built on an open protocol, giving users control over their content, followers, and experience. Unlike X (formerly Twitter), Bluesky is decentralized, allowing users to move their data between apps. With chronological feeds, no algorithm-driven content, and robust moderation tools, Bluesky fosters a more user-driven and community-focused environment. As dissatisfaction with major social platforms grows, millions are joining Bluesky for a fresh, independent social media experience.
Creative Collaboration through Shopify Collective
Shopify Collective allows Shopify store owners to sell products from other Shopify stores, creating a seamless partnership between retailers and suppliers. This feature helps businesses expand their product offerings without managing inventory, while suppliers gain exposure and sales. Craft businesses, like Modern Hoopla, use Shopify Collective to curate bundles and collaborate with trusted brands.
Knitting.com: Disrupter or Disappointment?
Knitting.com’s ambitious plans by e-commerce entrepreneurs sparked controversy in 2022. Learn how their bold claims and industry backlash shaped the website’s fate.
Take a Craft Business Class at h+h americas 2025
Are you interested in developing new skills to run your craft business? Invest in yourself by taking some classes at h+h americas, the premier trade show for the crafts industry coming to Chicago May 7-9, 2025.
The Unraveling of Joann Fabrics
How JOANN Fabrics, entering its second bankruptcy in a year, simultaneously destroyed shareholder value along with the joys of crafting.
What’s New in Craft: DIY Dorm Rooms
Transform your dorm room into a cozy, creative haven with these 8 fun and affordable DIY projects. From heart crochet garlands to personalized cork coasters, these crafts add unique flair to your space. Discover tips for turning a blank canvas into your own Curated Personalized Residence!
Introducing h+h University
Join us for a new daylong conference, h+h University, on May 6, the day before h+h americas opens in Chicago.
It’s Not Me, It’s You: Tips for Firing an Employee
Firing an employee is tough but sometimes necessary. Here are best practices to handle this uncomfortable situation as smoothly as possible.
IKEA Hacks for Craft Show Displays
Craft show vendors can find many useful and inexpensive items at IKEA to use in their displays. Take a look at these IKEA hacks for your craft show setup to sell art prints, jewelry, pottery, clothing, home décor, and more!
Make Way for Mocha Mousse: How to Use the 2025 Pantone Color of the Year
Pantone’s Color of the Year 2025, Mocha Mousse, is a cozy, versatile taupe-brown trending in fashion and interior design.
Craft Industry Reflections on 2024 and Predictions for 2025
Aaliyah Taylor Makes Bold Jewelry from Perler Beads
Aaliyah Taylor creates bold, Perler bead jewelry celebrating freedom and self-express expression for everyone.
The Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Reporting Rule: What It Means for Your Craft Business
Learn how the Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Rule, part of the Corporate Transparency Act, impacts craft businesses, including filing requirements, deadlines, and potential penalties for non-compliance.