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Crafty Resolutions To Make And Keep For The Year

Happy New Year to you all!

Here at Craft Insurance, we hope you enjoyed the Christmas season and we are excited to see your crafting businesses grow and flourish over this coming year. A new year can be a great time to make some resolutions which will benefit your craft business. However, New Year’s resolutions, although fired by enthusiasm initially, may not even last the month, never mind the year. So it might be more beneficial to focus on forming good habits, which will see you successfully through the year.

Forming a habit is essentially practicing a set behaviour which then becomes a routine part of your life. For example, cleaning your teeth, drinking a mug of tea in the morning, switching lights off when you leave a room. Some habits are not always good (screen-related ones perhaps) but developing healthy habits can be life-changing. Once a habit is formed, it becomes wired in our brains and we don’t have to think about it. The difficult part is forming these positive behaviours. That’s where a resolution or reason for forming the habit comes into play. If you are inspired to change a behaviour, your motivation will be greater, you’re more likely to form the habit and thus achieve related goals. So, as our New Year’s gift to you, we have ten categories of habits which will enable you to work towards some resolutions. Why not choose a few and get going on some positive and life-enriching habit formation? The first five are related to general well-being, and the second more specifically to business.

1. Most of us have indulged in sampling some delicious food over the Christmas season – and what a relief it was as all the calories started to become invisible! Many people start diets in January, but with the cold, dark days this is not necessarily a successful strategy. This being said, eating well will make you feel better and increase energy levels, which in turn benefits your business. What about choosing one area of your diet and introducing a small new habit? For example, increasing the amount of water you drink, swapping one caffeine drink out for a herbal one or cutting down on sugar in drinks.

2. Increasing exercise is another popular New Year’s resolution. This too will give you more energy to throw into your business so it’s an excellent investment of time. If this is a start up, why not aim for something small and achievable; maybe walking to the shops rather than getting in the car, or go for some accountability by arranging to play a sport or go to an exercise class once a week with a friend?

3. As well as taking time to focus on our bodies, the beginning of the year is an important time to focus on the wellbeing of our minds. Finding an interesting subject or an informative book and then committing to half an hour’s reading a week is a great way to developing some healthy mental habits. Of course, if you are an avid reader already, maybe add an extra half hour on.

4. Nurturing our souls is essential and will pay dividends when it comes to creative inspiration. In our fast-paced world it is often difficult to find the quiet space that we need. The busier you are the more likely that this space is only to be found in the morning or late at night before the rest of the household are up and about or after they have gone to sleep. I’m not promoting insomnia, but it could be worth setting the alarm fifteen minutes earlier and just sitting in the quiet; some people read poetry, some will find strength in a faith book like the Bible, and some will just enjoy the peace and awakening dawn.

5. While a habit that allows for solitude is good, so is getting together with friends. Balance is the key. Maybe you could seek out some local craft groups and commit to attending them on a regular basis.

6. Now onto the habits which relate directly to your business. Planning will save time and stress, so January could be a good time to book a table at some craft fairs. As you do this, one question you will need to ask is do I need public liability insurance for an event?

7. This leads us directly onto the next good administration habit. Make sure you have the correct insurance in place to avoid last minute panics. Back to our question “do I need public liability insurance for an event? It is not a legal requirement, but many organisers will ask that you have it in place. Public liability insurance will cover you if, when you are out and about, a member of the public claims you or your staff are responsible for causing an injury or damaging their property. Even if it is not your fault, you will be covered. To answer this question, do I need public liability insurance for an event? and other insurance related queries, get in touch with us; either Naomi or Sam will be here to help.

8. Admin could be a creative person’s least favourite part of running their business, but establishing some good habits and routines at the beginning of the year can save time and tension. Are there any regular slots you could allocate in your day/week for admin/packaging/social media etc? If this is something you find hard, you could try setting a time limit and rewarding yourself with something you like when you’re done.

9. On a related theme, it could be worth having a fresh look at your storage solutions, stationery and general work space. Sometimes have a refresh can help keep those good habits going.

10. Finally, resolve to give yourself some regular “me time” to breathe, to think and to be refreshed and inspired. This is not easy, especially if you have young children. It doesn’t have to be a big event, a simple walk in the fresh air taking time to appreciate your surroundings, maybe a coffee and a good book which feeds your soul, or maybe a wander around a busy market or car boot with lots of colour, noise and fun. We’re all unique and our creativity will be fired in different ways. Find what works for you and make it a regular date.

We wish you all a successful 2024!

Hooked on Crochet!

Brightly coloured granny squares, kitsch pot or toilet roll holders and seventies’ style dresses all evoke nostalgic memories and emotions, often of love or hate, around crotchet. Crochet did, in fact do a nose dive in popularity in the 1980’s and 90’s, but here at Craft Insurance we’ve been delighted to witness its rebirth with a new generation and see successful businesses grow out of this highly versatile craft.

In our second post where we delve into the resurgence of some traditional crafts, we will look back at the fascinating, relatively modern history of crochet and see how society has shaped it through the decades. We will also look to the future for those marketing their crocheted creations and showcase some inspirational small businesses.

Unlike some classic crafts, it is hard to trace the most distant origins of crochet and there are several schools of thought as to where its roots began. Some believe the first forms of crochet came from Arabia and spread via the trade routes to the Mediterranean. Others hold to its origins being with the indigenous peoples of South America, and still others to China.

In more recent history there are two threads from which modern day crochet has evolved; tambour embroidery and shepherds knitting. Tambour embroidery was introduced to the French aristocracy, probably from China, in the 1700’s. It is crafted by using thread on fabric, thus producing a flat design. Tambour comes from the French word meaning drum, referring to the drum like rhythmic beat of the hook tapping on the fabric. Shepherds knitting originates from the UK, probably from Scotland where crofters whiled away the hours while watching their sheep by “knitting” with a single hooked needle.

Meanwhile, across the Channel, a style of crochet was developed to fashion the delicate and intricate lace for which some regions are still known. In Italy lace making was predominantly carried out in monasteries, and referred to as “nun’s lace”. In France it was the upper classes who mainly availed themselves to the skill of lace making. During the revolution many of this segment of society were either killed or fled the country, thus rendering this expertise almost to extinction. Fortunately however, a small group of nuns in a tucked away monastery were determined these skills did not die out and quietly worked away making lace in the traditional method, thus ensuring the survival of a distinct and regional craft for subsequent generations.

While knitting was a firmly established technique at this time, crotchet had yet to catch on with the general population. It was another tragic event which seems to have catapulted crochet into this more general realm. During the great Potato Famine in Ireland, the starving Irish population had to look for ways to feed themselves. One of these was by learning to crochet lace which they could sell. This stunning Irish lace became well regarded and the art was spread to America as many Irish citizens emigrated to escape hunger. In England, Queen Victoria was so enamoured with a piece of Irish lace gifted to her that she learnt to crochet, thus establishing it’s approval for all.

Here in the U.K. crocheting grew from strength to strength. Intricate stitches were developed during the Edwardian era and it became part of the war effort on the Home Front in both World Wars. Whole articles of clothing were designed and made using crochet between the wars, and after the Second World War it played a role in the “make do and mend” culture of the nation’s austerity. The 50’s and 60’s were maybe the height of crochet popularity with the introduction of brightly coloured granny squares and a huge range of clothes, including wedding dresses, made by crochet.

Sadly the 1980’s saw the demise in the favour of crochet, but in the last decade or so it’s popularity has again gained traction with the burgeoning of online tutorials and websites, local crochet gatherings and a vast choice of patterns and yarns. We have also had the pleasure of seeing the rise in many small, successful crochet businesses.

If you are interested in the work of some modern day crochet influencers why not follow @repeatcrafterme, @allboutami, @tlyarncrafts, @bellacococrochet and @jimmybeanswool on INstagram?

If you enjoy crochet, why not consider selling some of your gorgeous creations? There is certainly a market for them, the start up costs are low and it is a craft you can easily fit in around other parts of your life; perfect for an initial toe dip into the world of craft business. These cold and often grey winter months are a good time to research what is out there, and begin to build a range of stock which is unique to you. It is also a good time to think about how you will sell your initial creations. Online is certainly an option, and there are a number of platforms through which you can do this. You could also look towards spring craft fairs and markets. This wonderful world is well worth exploring as it provides opportunities to network with other crafters, to meet customers and to gain inspiration from other stalls.

When you book, you will need to check if public liability insurance for events is required. While this is not a legal requirement, many organisers will ask that you have public liability insurance for events in place. Even if the event organiser does not request it, both that and product liability insurance are worth considering. Public liability insurance for events will cover you in the unforeseen event that a member of the public makes a claim against you for damage to themselves or their property; for example, breaking an ankle when tripping over a display unit. This is extremely unlikely and may not even be your fault, which is why we call it a “sleep easy” insurance. However, it is advisable to look into insurance backup and both Naomi and Sam are here to answer your questions to ensure you have the best package to set you on your way.

Finally, take a look at the inspiring crochet business listed below, have confidence in yourself and your creativity and get started!

The Return of Embroidery

Here at Craft Insurance we have seen an exciting resurgence in a wide variety of traditional crafts over the last decade. Over the next few months we will be running a set of blog posts to showcase these, explaining their history and development and pointing you in the direction of some inspiring crafters who have built successful business upon these skills. In today’s post we’re delighted to be looking at the ancient and intricate art of embroidery.

What comes to mind when you hear the word embroidery? Maybe it’s a small Victorian girl, head bowed low as she works industrially over a meticulously stitched sampler. It could be your team motif machine stitched on your sports kit, uniting your particular squad of players. Or perhaps it is a beautifully hand stitched design of a favourite holiday haunt, bringing back memories of coastal walks and cream teas whenever you glance its way. It probably is not of a man finding fulfilment in creating these complex pieces. However, while embroidery is mostly attributed to women and girls, it is not solely their domain. Both Henry Fonda, the dancer, and Gustav V King of Sweden, have admitted to their enjoyment of embroidery.

Embroidery can be described as the art of creating intricate and complex designs on fabric, using needle and thread. It comes from the French word, “broderie” meaning embellishment. It is commonly believed to have originated from China and the Near East, and to have spread as far as Europe by the Viking era. Samples have been found in Egyptian burial grounds dating from the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries. It became popular in Europe from 1000AD during the rise of the Christian Catholic Church and associated royalty where it was used to embellish robes, decorate table cloths and create wall hangings. Possibly the most famous of these is the Bayeaux Tapestry, depicting the battle of Hastings in 1066 where William of Normandy conquered King Harold, thus establishing French rule, culture and language in England. It is a truly spectacular hanging, with incredible detail and story telling ability.

If you have visited your local museum, the chances are there will be a few samplers, framed and hanging in a darkened room to prevent spoilage. These might be the most commonly known form of embroidery and those of us of a certain age may even remember having made a small cross stitch square sampler or smaller bookmark at school. The word sampler has Latin and French roots, meaning “an example”. This was exactly the purpose of the original samplers in Tudor England; in days before mass printing made pattern books a possibility, women used to record stitches and patterns on long pieces of fabric, to be used for reference at a later date. In the seventeenth century they became the mode whereby girls practiced stitching the alphabet; this was necessary to mark and embellish linen. In the eighteenth century working samplers almost became a right of passage for girls as they prepared for womanhood. Rather than being long pieces or linen rolled away for reference use only, they became pieces of artwork, to be displayed on the walls of their homes. Girls were not only stitching letters, but other motifs and designs. Religious depictions were popular as, interestingly, were maps. These became so sought after that printed, ready to stitch versions were made available. (An example of an early crafting business based on popular demand!). It was around this time that wool as well as linen was used as background material. As we reach the nineteenth century, working a cross stitch sampler became an exercise for girls in schoolrooms across the country. The coming of the Industrial Revolution, the beginnings of machine embroidery and the availability of cheaper cloth made this skill available to all; no longer was it just for the upper classes of society. The huge social upheaval that followed the First World War could have caused this rich tradition to slip into insignificance. However, a dedicated group of needlework schools and art guilds kept embroidery skills alive and now, almost another century later, we are thrilled to see modern crafting business thriving on the skills and heritage of embroidery.

So why is making hand embroidery such a popular basis for crafting businesses? In itself it is pleasurable and satisfying. Start up costs are low, it is easily transferable (ie it can be carried in a bag and picked up throughout the day), and there seems to be an increasing demand for it. Many tips for starting up are similar to those for any small crafting business, so have a root around our previous helpful blogs. Specifically though, you will need some basic supplies; fabric, embroidery silks, needles, embroidery hoops, marker pens and scissors. You will also need to find your niche, a product area which is unique to you. You will need to develop a marketing strategy and find some selling outlets, either in person or online.

It is also important to set good business foundations in place so you are then free to concentrate on the creative side of your business. Having the correct insurance is one of these. One question we are often asked is what is product liability insurance? There are several types of insurance it is advisable to have in place as you are starting out, and this is one of them. So, what is product liability insurance? It covers you for any completely unforeseeable occurrence in which a customer might claim that your product has caused harm, or not met expectations and make a claim against you. Even if it is not your fault, it will cover your legal defence costs and compensation. Give us a call or drop us a line and either Naomi or Sam will be able to answer not only what is product liability insurance? but also any other questions you have regarding the insurance building blocks of a new business. In the meantime, we look forward to hearing about how you are taking the rich heritage of embroidery and giving it a unique twist for your contemporary customers.

If you are interested in following some modern day embroidery influencers on Instagram why not follow the work of @brwnpaperbag_stitch, @mrxstitch, @jessicalongembroidery and @tessa_perlow?

We would also like to take this opportunity to wish all our readers a really Happy Christmas and a wonderful, prosperous New Year.

Event Liability Insurance for Woodturners

There can be few fragrances to beat that of freshly cut or turned wood; an aroma of freshness and the outdoors, evoking memories of childhood rambles through woodland, warm winter woollens and comforting hot chocolate in front of a roaring fire (if you were lucky enough to grow up with one in your home). The texture of wood too, is something to behold; literally to hold. Greenwood is rough and bumpy, a sensory adventure for our fingertips. Turned wood, in comparison, is smooth and soft, a tactile delight which can be quite mesmerising and calming as it slides across our fingers.

Woodturning is an ancient craft combining a mechanically rotating wood lathe with hand-held tools to produce exquisite objects shaped around the axis of rotation. While it has adapted to demand through the centuries, the original skills still required have been preserved and passed down from one generation to the next.

In pre-industrial Britain, wood turners used to congregate in local woods to set up their lathes and get to work. Working with simple mechanical pole lathes, powered by a pedal, they produced legs and stretcher rails for chairs, which were then passed on to another craftsman to be completed. They became known as bodgers. It could be that our modern term of doing a “bodge job” derives from these bodgers, indicating a job left incomplete.

The first record of a mechanical continuously turning lathe was found in one of Leodardo Da Vinci’s sketches; there is, however, no evidence that this was his own design, but it shows that the concept was circulating around that time (pardon the pun). The next biggest change in wood turning came, unsurprisingly, with the Industrial Revolution. From working with pedal powered lathes in the woods, wood turners had to adapt to using high output machines in factories to cope with the demands of a fast industrialising Britain. They supplied the textile factories of the North, churned out farm implements and articles for the nation’s increasing maritime fleets as well as sports equipment, musical instruments and everyday domestic items. This increase in the scale of manufacture started the trajectory towards larger companies specialising in specific products which we see today.

However, even at this time, wood turning maintained it’s craftsmanship, with mechanically-minded gentry learning the skills and creating bespoke ornamental articles for their homes and gardens. Today, many items historically turned from wood are either no longer required, or are made from synthetic materials. Nonetheless, the age old skills have not been lost, and arguably have found a resurgence in today’s artisan wood turning community. The range of high quality products made from locally sourced wood is vast and includes domestic items such as stunning wooden bowls and platters showcasing the natural grain of the wood, pens, musical instruments, candlesticks, clocks and so much more. In our throwaway age which is ever more conscious of treading lightly on our beautiful earth, naturally turned wooden products carry a metaphorical sustainability badge too; they can be made from locally sourced wood, by local craftspeople and will have longevity as well as be completely unique.

There are many woodturning clubs across the country, where stories can be shared, skills honed and ideas sparked. These are great places to meet with other turners, and be immersed in the language, culture and creativity unique to this amazing community. If you are not a part of one, it is worth checking out your local area for a club. It is so encouraging to meet together with others who share your craft and passion; and on a larger scale, local clubs or groups can be the springboard for larger wood turning events. This may be a stall at a local craft show or a demonstration at a reenactment day, or a whole day or even week end event.

If you are a turner, how do you feel about travelling to attend such an event? It is an excellent way to showcase your craft, meet other like minded turners and generate some sales. So, what will you need to consider as you head off to such an event? If you are are holding a stall or demonstration at a pre-arranged event, a lot of the organisation will have been done for you, which is why it’s such a great option. If you are going to carry out some kind of demonstration there you will require extra planning as the venue will have to be suitable for the equipment you need. Whether you are just selling or demonstrating as well, you will need to consider event public liability insurance. However meticulous you are in your planning, it is impossible to predict those unexpected occurrences which could have serious ramifications for your business. Event public liability insurance is an insurance package tailored specifically to your business needs, and could include public and product liability insurance, employer’s liability insurance and legal expense cover. Although this may sound daunting, as a small family business who has been in the insurance world for several decades, we can guide you through quickly and easily to ensure you get a good value, bespoke package for the entire trip. With this in place, you can have peace of mind and be free to concentrate on all the other arrangements.

Publicity and advertising your stall’s presence is key; locally, if it is a small event, but go for national if you are attending a larger one. Advertising your presence at the stall on social media is a great way to get your message out there in many different ways. An event is a great opportunity for those interested in learning about wood turning to come and see a seasoned turner or two demonstrate their craft – it will be a real pull. Trade stalls, food stalls, live music and a bar are all part of the buzz and the excitement. If you are aiming more towards showcasing your craft to the general public, a demonstration will also be an attraction, as well as plenty of opportunity to sell your products. So, get in touch with us to find out about event public liability insurance. Now is the time to start planning for the New Year and browse through the exciting events that you could attend in 2024 to showcase your amazing skills and products as an artisan woodturner.

The Christmas Craft Gift List

Christmas is just around the corner; community carols sung around an outdoor tree, warm mugs of hot chocolate at the end of a winter’s walk, twinkling lights bedecking our homes and towns, building gingerbread houses with starry-eyed children, stirring up cakes and puddings with mouth-watering ingredients, a house filled with secret surprises and delicious fragrances….We hope you will enjoy some of these, but the reality is often very different from our ideals and the sugar-coated movies (but don’t we love them anyway?). Busyness often tends to be the overriding ingredient in this season, and it can be especially so for small craft business owners with Christmas orders to process and craft fairs and markets to attend. In the midst of this, we need to squeeze in our family preparations, including buying and wrapping gifts. We hope that in amongst it all, you will be asked what you would like for Christmas. There are lots of gift lists for crafters online, but here at Craft Insurance, we want to offer you some slightly different suggestions. We know that the essence of Christmas is not found in mass commercialism; we are conscious too of using the resources of our beautiful planet well and not buying unnecessarily; we are aware that financial resources are tighter for most families and finally, we know that as sole craft traders, you work extremely hard and would like to think that you might receive some gifts this Christmas which will give you a much-earned lift throughout the year. So, here are our top ten gift suggestions for crafters; environmentally responsible, economically savvy, locally produced where possible and bringing delight for more than just a day. We hope you might find something which you would enjoy and gain ideas for your crafting friends.

1. Always useful are tools and materials for your business, be this soft and colourful wool, new hand tools for your wood-turning business, or a fresh supply of resin.

2. As your business grows, so too does your need for storage space; think about what might help your organisation and hence make everyday tasks easier. This might be storage carts, stacked boxes, a shelving unit, a beautiful new bag for wool or maybe a new stationery tidy for all the admin tasks.

3. If your craft involves a mess, maybe a card-making business or ceramic workshop, you will be wearing aprons daily, A new one will brighten your workspace and lift your spirits at the beginning of the day. See if this can be sourced locally.

4. Effective self-care is often more about the small, regular habits which speak to us that we matter and that our bodies, minds and souls are worth caring for and cultivating. So, what about some small treats, which will make your working day more comfortable? Maybe soft, warm woolly socks, a pair of cheerful fingerless gloves or a shawl to wrap around yourself during the cold days of winter? If possible, you could source these from another local crafter.

5. On the same theme, part of nurturing yourself is continuing to develop your mind and skills. Why not look out for a book which would encourage and inspire you to go further in your craft? There is much online, but it’s not the same as the rustle, texture and scent of turning fresh leaves in a new book, especially if it includes some exquisite, colourful pictures.

6. Here at Craft Insurers we believe in the value of a local community, and the benefit to our well-being of getting together with like-minded people regularly. One of the ways you could include this in your busy week is by meeting with fellow crafters either in the form of a club, where talks and demonstrations are given or in a more informal setting of a cafe for a crocheting or knitting circle. These will generally require a small donation or club membership fee, so you could ask for money towards this and enjoy connecting with fellow crafters on a regular basis throughout the year.

7. Another way to meet with fellow crafters and continue your professional development is by attending a national weekend event. These are excellent ways to join with others who share your particular passion, have the opportunity to talk shop and be inspired by experts in your particular skill and business. Maybe you could pick an event you’d like to attend and ask for contributions towards it. Don’t forget to book it and pop it on the calendar!

8. As a small business owner, the financial buck stops with you. Recognising the current financial squeeze, here is an ultimately shrewd, if not romantic, business suggestion. Why not ask for someone to buy your sole traders public liability insurance for the upcoming year? If you will be out and about selling, teaching or demonstrating your craft, sole traders public liability insurance is something well worth considering. While it is not a legal requirement, many organisers will require it, and it could save your business if the unforeseen happens and a customer decides to take legal action for damage, even if it is not your fault. Check out our website and contact us for more information. Naomi and Sam are here to help and although it might not be a traditional Christmas present, having sole traders public liability insurance will enable you to worry less and sleep more peacefully.

9. Here’s a fun suggestion but one which you could possibly source locally, or at least purchase from a fellow crafter: a “handmade by” stamp for your products. Another extra idea on the same theme is a door sign for your workspace. Something to bring a smile and sense of pride and purpose wherever you see it.

10. Our final suggestion is for a workshop experience for a craft which is not your own. Maybe you could go with a friend and have a fun day learning a new skill.

Whatever you receive for Christmas, we wish you a season of peace and refreshment and for a year ahead of firm foundations and flourishing growth for your business.

January Sales and the best place to sell handmade items

It might seem early days to be talking about January sales when the celebration, colour, noise and busyness of Christmas hasn’t even started yet! However, once the hustle and bustle has begun, we’ll all be held in its thrall for a couple of weeks and we’ll be distracted from thinking about the year ahead. Then, when it’s all over there’ll be that familiar sense of sadness; a warm oasis of time with family and friends in the midst of an ever more crazy world and everyone is back to their everyday challenges and the reality of what needs to be done in the new year!  For some of us, January comes as a welcome relief; for all the fun and festivity of Christmas, it’s good to clear our homes and lives and settle back into our normal routines. For all of us, it is a good time to reassess, not only our own habits and rhythms, but also our business vision and goals. So let’s talk about it ahead of time. 

January can be a gloomy, grey month, but there’s much beauty to be seen in the silhouetted trees, the stillness of the damp air and the mist that hangs over our towns and countryside. In a fast-paced world, it can be tempting to view January as a time of deep hibernation, a time to regroup, to rest and be still. For craft businesses, however, January doesn’t have to be a slow month, it offers a raft of opportunities! January is a great time to reassess the direction of your business, where you want to be heading this year and set some goals to help you get there. 

Looking at your sales strategy, one question it is good to re-examine is where is the best place to sell handmade items UK? This will obviously differ for each business, depending on your size, your location and your products. You may sell mainly online, with January a perfect time to apply discount codes to your website or online shop or start exploring the world of Google or Facebook Ads to promote your products to a wider audience. You may be plugged into a local crafting community and sell locally, or you might concentrate on larger national fairs. Most small business will grow with a combination of all of these, plus any other marketing opportunities which present themselves. As you look to expand your business it could be helpful to think strategically about your customer base, how to expand this and how to keep loyal customers while encouraging them to spend more. One of the ways you can do this is by using incentives, rewards and offers as part off your marketing strategy.  

Everyone loves a bargain, but for you as a small business owner these have to be financially beneficial to yourself. If you are looking to attract new customers and are selling mainly online, rewards for referrals, reviews and for new customers are all worth considering. Using social media to your best advantage is a savvy move as it offers you so many opportunities to build your audience organically as well as using campaigns to push seasonal product lines or goods; as well as your website, ensure that you are making the most of your Facebook page and Instagram account. Customers often have to see an offer several times before they will act on it, so be consistent in posting and use Instagram stories regularly. New customers may be reluctant to buy online as they can not actually see or touch the product. They may like to know a little more about you and the company, and this is an area in which you can excel as a small crafting business. Make sure you have plenty of detail in your “about” section on your website, popping in a few personal touches to enable customers to relate to you, and also be sure to promote your sustainable and community-focused credentials. All this will start to build up trust between you and your customers. You might consider sending out emails with updates on the business, new lines and include a January offer with a discount code for anyone who signs up to receive these.  

One way to get the word out there about your products and discounts is through advertising; this can be pricey but you can widen your reach considerably using Google or Facebook Ads. Also, check out local paper magazines or consider writing a short blog post for a crafting blogger with wide readership in return for advertising your website and offer. Make best use of Instagram stories by asking friends and followers to tag your current product and offer in exchange for tagging them straight back. A win for everyone. 

All the above will work particularly well for attracting new customers, but what about rewarding loyal customers or encouraging them to look at your new range? Targeted offers can work, also the “three for two” multi-buy offers and straightforward discounts, maybe on a new range. These can be sent out via email if you have collated a mailing list.  

So far, we have mainly discussed online selling, but as we ask where is the best place to sell handmade crafts in the UK we need also to look at the very many options of face-to-face sales and the advantages these bring, especially with a tempting offer attached. January is a good time to plan for craft markets, fairs and seasonal events. Explore your options, decide which to go for and pop them on your calendar. You can then look towards which ranges you will aim to sell at each event, and can plan discounts or incentives. For example, your display and offers for a family event at which there will be children with pocket money to spend will be different from that of an artisan fair.  

One last factor to consider when looking for the best place to sell handmade items UK, planning your annual marketing strategy within this and organising customer incentives around it, is seasonal selling. As a nation, we can boast a bold list of celebrations; celebrations of the everyday and ordinary, as well as big, full-on, festivals. These include Candlemas (there is a gradual resurgence of this light-filled festival in February), Easter, Mothers’ and Fathers Days’, May Day, numerous regional summer festivals, Harvest, Bonfire night and Christmas. All these are opportunities to pop a discount onto one of your stunning handcrafted products, go out to meet the public and sell with confidence.  

A final note : remember to check your insurance is in place for the year ahead. Drop us a line or give us a call and we can ensure you have the correct insurance backing in place as you head out into the New Year as the owner of a growing craft business, selling unique and high-quality products.  

How do I get influencers to wear my stuff?

Collaborations with influencers have become crucial for brands trying to increase their visibility and connect with new audiences in the digital age of social media. This is especially true if you are a creator of products. Influencer marketing enables brands to leverage the dedicated followers of influencers and gain valuable exposure by having them use or actively engage with their products. However, convincing influencers to promote your brand can be a difficult journey.

How can I get influencers to work with me?

When it comes to influencer marketing, you must execute correctly. It’s essential to select appropriate influencers and approach them in a manner that matches your brand’s values and objectives. When beginning your influencer marketing campaign, you must take your brand’s image and values into account and find influencers that fit with these to ensure the collaboration works. To do this, you can research potential influencers within your niche and assess their style, audience and engagement levels.

Social media listening platforms can help find the ideal match for your brand. Building an authentic relationship with influencers is crucial. Interact with their content, show your appreciation for their work, and start a conversation with them. When reaching out to influencers, make sure to send a personalised message that explains how your product aligns with their interests and their audience’s needs. Clearly state the benefits of a collaboration and why you admire their work.

Remember, influencers are more likely to collaborate when they see value in the partnership. Offer them products to try out and experience firsthand. Allow influencers creative freedom in how they incorporate your products into their content, as long as this fits with your brand’s values. Encourage them to create content that reflects their authenticity, as that’s what their audience follows them for. You do not have to focus just on national influencers. The world that the influencers work in is a truly global market, and those abroad can offer you a much larger sales space than you could originally imagine. This does open you up to the need for security, and international public liability insurance is something that should be considered and will be discussed in more detail later. 

Be fair in your negotiations, whether compensation, free products, or other incentives. It’s important to work with influencers who respect their worth and professionalism. You should use analytics tools to help track the performance of your influencer collaborations. Make sure to monitor key metrics such as the reach and engagement of your posts, and sales generated from the partnership. By analysing this data, you can evaluate the effectiveness of each collaboration and refine your strategy.

To summarise, it is important you know that asking influencers to exhibit, use, wear and even do a live unboxing of your products involves a combination of research, relationship-building, and offering value. Choose influencers who align with your brand’s values, engage with them authentically and provide a fair collaboration offer. Monitoring and analysing the results will help refine your influencer strategy over time.

Do I need international public liability insurance to work with influencers?

Public liability insurance is established to protect businesses in case of legal claims related to injury or damage on their premises or due to their products. Whether you need international public liability insurance when your influencer strategy has successfully expanded your reach to a global audience is a question that requires careful consideration. Here are some things to keep in mind: The need for international public liability insurance depends on the scope of your business operations and whether you’re selling products worldwide. If you’re shipping products internationally and promoting your brand to a global audience, it’s wise to consider international coverage.

Additionally, if your influencer collaborations result in a significant increase in international sales, you may be exposed to a higher level of risk. Accidents or product-related issues in different countries could lead to legal claims, making global coverage essential. Some countries or regions may have specific legal requirements for businesses operating within their jurisdiction.

You should consult with legal or insurance experts to ensure compliance with these regulations. If your influencers are promoting your products internationally, any issues or defects in those products that cause harm to consumers could result in liability claims. International public liability insurance can protect in such cases. You should assess any risks that are associated with your business activities and the specific countries you target. Different regions may have varying legal standards and levels of risk. Tailor your insurance coverage accordingly.

To reduce the likelihood of legal claims related to product defects, ensure that your products meet international quality and safety standards. Proper quality control measures can reduce the likelihood of legal claims related to product defects.

To determine the extent of coverage you need, it’s advisable to consult with an insurance expert. They can provide insights into your specific situation and guide you in choosing the right policy. It may be that international public liability insurance is required to protect all parties involved.  

We have seen that the world of the influencer has become a vital marketing and advertising tool. The incredible leverage and audience that a successful influencer can reach is truly astounding, but when harnessed in the right way, as noted above, the possibilities for a supplier that is picked up by them have almost limitless potential. They have the potential to exceed what can be achieved through regular marketing channels and then some. Be sure to have a strategy in place to allow you to reach out to the right influencers and make the most of the collaboration. A good strategy will then let you set goals and assess how well your collaboration is working to achieve those goals.

It’s good to chat, even when it’s about trade public liability insurance!

“Electric communication will never be a substitute for the face of someone who with their soul encourages you to be brave and true” Charles Dickens.

Dickens must have made this comparison during the early years of the electric telegraph; telephones were not introduced until after his death. How far we have come in “electric communication” since then! In our world of messaging, emails and chatbots, it is interesting to ponder whether his words still hold true. Are there advantages to live chat or chatbots, or does Dickens have the last word? We think there are many circumstances in our fast-paced modern world in which electronic communication is not only helpful but absolutely necessary; maybe it is more about the circumstances, the purpose of our communication and what each party would hope to gain from it. Let’s delve a little more into this fascinating world!

As business owners of small crafting enterprises, good communication will not only be one of your strengths, but something upon which you can most likely fly head and shoulders above larger, more anonymous businesses. You will have the personal touch, both within your staff team and with your customers. There may be days when a good dose of impersonality could seem appealing, when it would be much easier to delegate difficult situations to an anonymous HR team or tricky customers to an equally large marketing team. But, like it or not, you are in the thick of both your team and your customers and handled well, this is a huge advantage.

So, how can up-to-date technology help your business? Increasing numbers of websites now have a chat facility embedded within them and this is worth considering for your business. Chats can be either live or bot-led. The nature of your business will very much determine which of these would be more helpful, or whether a mix of the two would work. The advantages of using a chatbot are that customers can receive help and answers to many of their questions immediately. This could increase their satisfaction level with your business and therefore lead to more sales. In addition, chatbots can be particularly helpful as they will communicate with your customers while you are busy doing something else; this could be worth considering if your craft business is at present a side hustle and you are occupied with your main job during a large part of the working day.

The disadvantage of using a chatbot is that they are often clunky. However well programmed, they will not pick up on nuances, moods and more complex questions that fall into a more human domain. So, the advantage of immediate replies needs to be weighed up against potential frustration on behalf of your customers as their questions are not properly answered. Another possible disadvantage is that bots do not pick up on tone of voice; in the unlikely event that a customer is dissatisfied, likely, a bot will likely not deal with this well, leading to increased dissatisfaction.

Live chat on the other hand has all the advantages of communicating with a real person, among which are warmth, empathy, and a sense of humour. It allows a fairly immediate response, although not as quick as a chatbot would produce. Problems are resolved more quickly and satisfactorily and you will be able to deal with more complex out-of-the-box issues which would not necessarily have been programmed into the bot. For example, an overseas customer might require information about packaging and posting costs, insurance in the case of loss or breakages and a rough delivery period; only a real human being would be able to deal with the individuality of this question and indeed a chatbot could cause frustration.

How does live chat compare with email or telephone calls? If time is of the essence, live chat is certainly quicker than an email. Phone calls add an extra layer of humanity to the communication including tone of voice, as well as warmth, empathy and humour. Emails are good for straightforward queries demanding a quick response. Both they and live chats allow web links to be forwarded, an option which is not available on a phone call.

There is much to weigh up as you consider what the best modes of communication are for your unique business; for example your own time availability, your customer base and your budget. Here at  Craft Insurance customer satisfaction is something we value highly and communicating well with you is a large part of that. This is our whole-time family business, and as such Naomi and Sam are always here to speak to you as well as to answer emails. For our business model, this is the best combination. For example, a client may wish to find out whether she/he needs trade public liability insurance. A quick look at our FAQ’s will give a general answer, but will obviously not be applied directly to their situation. The client could then send off an email which we will respond to within twenty-four working hours, explaining how trade public liability insurance is needed in their situation. This can include both general links and advice applied directly to the company and can then be sorted quickly and efficiently. However, sometimes trade public liability insurance might be required with more urgency, maybe our client has a one-off event and needs cover for the following day. In this instance, a phone call will be the fastest way to explain what is required and give peace of mind, ensuring they can put all their energies into the event ahead. Either way, we are here for you and excited to be a small part of your growing businesses.

So, was Dickens right? Probably! At least in as far as no amount of emails, chats or phone calls are a substitute for a deep, soulful conversation with someone who encourages you to live life as your best self. However, the others are essential to our modern world and within their confines we certainly hope to encourage you to be bold in your business and live life to the full!

Ideas for Christmas Parties and Christmas Party Insurance

Christmas is coming! Whether you dive into the full-on multi-sensory experience of tinsel, lights and jolly songs, whether you prefer a more muted run-up of evergreens, gingerbread houses and carols sung by choirs, or whether you actively try to raise anticipation by marking Advent as a season of waiting and preparation for Christmastide to follow, we cannot but be bombarded by Christmas preparations all around us. Here at Craft Insurance, we are big fans of Christmas. As a family-run business, an opportunity for all those we love to gather around the table and enjoy good food, recount the joys and challenges of the previous year, exchange gifts and share laughter is one we anticipate with delight.

As crafters, it is also one of the high marketing moments of the year, which brings with it both great opportunities and the potential for rising stress levels. How can you maximise this fantastic sales opportunity while still keeping time for your own Christmas preparations? One answer might be to get on board the growing trend of craft parties.  Christmas workshops or craft parties have been quietly growing in popularity over the past few years, and are hosted across the land, by large national organisations like the National Trust, by thriving craft party businesses and by local or individual craft hubs. They offer a wonderful alternative to over-indulgent office parties, a fun pre-Christmas event at which friends can gather and even a space for over-excited children to focus on learning a new skill.

The sky is the limit when it comes to the crafting skill which takes centre stage at your workshop or party; most crafts can be adapted to this setting. Wreath-making workshops are possibly the most widely available, but candle-making lends itself well to the festive season, or perhaps painting some ceramic tea light candle holders. Creating Christmas decorations using a wide range of materials from ceramics to paper origami, designing Christmas cards with lino printing, watercolours or botanicals, or constructing an evergreen Christmas garland would all make wonderful occupations for a Christmas craft party. Felting, weaving and crotcheting can all be adapted around a Christmas theme to create a variety of cards and decorations.  Taking it a step further, kiln-formed glass techniques can be taught, fashioning decorations such as glass Christmas trees to take home. Who could resist an afternoon of warmth, chatter and friendship while learning a new skill and coming away with a beautifully packaged Christmas gift, a stack of cards which will bring delight to friends and family or a set of decorations with memories of a cosy, enchanting afternoon spent with friends?

Craft workshops and parties not only provide a wholesome alternative to the annual office party, but they will also offer an oasis of time for friends and family members to connect in the midst of a busy season. As a family-run business, we at Craft Insurers are passionate about the importance of community; of real-life connections, friendships and communication. We have said it before, but it is worth reiterating; crafters have an ideal vehicle for bringing people together as you share your craft in an atmosphere where there is space for everyone, where warm drinks and conversation flow and good memories are made.

We hope we have inspired you to take a look at the potential of holding Christmas workshops or parties, but what now are the practicalities you need to consider? Firstly, make sure you charge a fee which not only covers costs and reflects not only your time and skill, but also the added value of community and mental well-being the time will proffer. On one hand, this is something on which a price cannot be placed, but in our fast-paced world where we arguably don’t have enough time to simply be with others, a space such as this will do your customers’ mental health untold good.

You will need to find an appropriate space in which to hold your gatherings. Maybe in a local Arts Quarter, Arts Hub, village hall or community centre. As you seek out a venue, you too will be making connections. It may be you could join with a fellow crafter to offer an event with a blend of skills; if you usually work alone, this could bring a sense of teamwork into your working days.

An important factor to consider is what type of party insurance UK you will require. Party insurance UK is not a legal requirement, but is strongly recommended for a workshop or party as we have described. As your circumstances, your business and the type of gathering you are planning will be completely unique, it would be best to get a bespoke package, tailored around your individual requirements. This is where we, as a small family business can ensure you get the best possible deal as we listen to and assess your insurance needs. Depending on your plans, you may require any one of public liability insurance, equipment insurance, employer’s liability or a one-off party insurance. It’s not as complicated as it sounds; a simple phone call will point you in the right direction and as your mind is put to rest over any potential problems which may occur, you will instead be able to focus your full attention and creativity on planning a fantastic workshop or party. Drop us a line or pick up the phone and either Naomi or Sam will be here to talk you through the best party insurance UK option for you.

As the Christmas season approaches in full swing, we wish you every success as you share your craft and talents with others at fun, festive events!

What is product liability insurance and why might I need it when sourcing sustainable materials?

It’s fun to wonder what might be a crafter’s idea of an Aladdin’s cave. Might it be a treasure trove of glittery gems, colourful beads, sparkling silver wire, clasps and studs? Or could it be a neatly ordered room with every colour and texture of yarn you can imagine, organised by hue and tone in ceiling-high, fully stuffed box shelves? Or maybe a gorgeously fragranced room of essential oils, dried herbs and other botanicals, lye, bowls, spatulas and thermometers; all you would need to develop the most enticing range of handmade soap? Or possibly it could be floor-to-ceiling rolls of fabric, with plenty of overflowing baskets of tempting offcuts through which to rummage? 

What might your crafter’s Aladdin’s cave look like? It’s fun to imagine, and while your dreams may not become a reality, there might be some reflection of them in real life, in the very tangible Scrap Stores located around our nation. These amazing stores, filled to bursting with salvaged surplus from local industry or business can be located throughout our towns, cities and countryside. They generally run under one or two business models. The first one, a charity called Children’s Scrap Store is open to schools, youth or children’s groups, churches or other social organisations. For a small fee, a membership card is issued and then donations given for the materials collected on each visit. Membership is often extended to commercial crafters. The second model is a social enterprise model, by which the scrap store is opened to anyone and profit ploughed back into local social projects. Clothes and furniture may be collected for distribution alongside the scrap store materials, workshops, training and children’s holiday clubs may be held on the premises. Funds might be raised through initiatives such as children’s parties. Either of these models offer opportunities for crafters.

Scrap stores exhibited recycling before the main population had begun to think in this way.

By collecting clean and safe waste products from local business and industries, they are both reducing landfill and lowering carbon emissions by minimising the need for incineration. The stores have a constant flow of scrap material, and part of the fun of visiting one is that it is a bit of a lottery as to what you will find. You may go with a mental shopping list and come away with none of what you were looking for but a couple of bagfuls of quirky materials full of creative potential. They are thus a wonderful and exciting source of sustainable materials.

Here at Craft Insurers we often champion our clients’ ability to source environmentally sustainable and ethically sourced raw products. If you are able to do this, it is well worth flying your ethical credentials on your promotion and marketing media.  Customers are increasingly looking for goods made with sustainable products and will pay a premium for them; scrap store finds certainly fulfil this criteria.

Imagine now you have created some unique and beautiful products using sustainable materials, maybe from a scrap store, and are ready to release them to a band of delighted customers. It is sometimes at this stage that crafters think about insurance, and in particular product liability insurance. Is this something you will need, even if your goods are of a high standard and made with sustainable materials? The answer is, that while product liability insurance is not a legal requirement, it is highly advisable. If you are selling in any real-life setting, such as a market, fair or small shop, the organiser or owner may well ask for it.

So, what is it and why is it a good idea to have it? Basically, product liability insurance covers you against any claim a customer may make against your product even when it is not your fault. It covers your legal defence and costs, and any compensation that may be demanded. It is often hard to imagine what might go wrong with your product and thus lead to a situation like this. However, the whole point of both public and product liability insurance is that it offers protection against those incidents you cannot possibly foresee and thus cannot possibly prevent. This is why we call it a sleep easy insurance. Once in place, you can put all your creativity and energy into creating the best possible products for your appreciative customers.

Would you need it for online selling? The answer again is that while it is not essential, it is a wise precaution. There could be an argument that it is even more advisable if selling online. Relationship with our customers is so important and while you will do all you can to give your customers a good buying experience online, it will not be the same as a smile and chat when selling face to face. If there were a problem with one of your products, it could be argued that a customer who has met you, maybe heard a bit of your story and seen both your passion and hard work, would be less likely to file a legal complaint and more inclined to resolve the issue directly with yourself. Either way, product liability insurance will have you covered and put your mind at rest. Pick up the phone or drop us an email and either Naomi or Sam will get back to you and guide you through the best, most cost-effective cover for your unique business.

As we look towards Christmas, increasing numbers of consumers are not happy with the excessive commercialism around this time and the waste, landfill and general damage to both our beautiful world and our squeezed bank accounts. This is an excellent opportunity for small, local crafters to take centre stage, emphasising your sustainable credentials and lasting value of your products. Time to go and gather together an Aladdin’s cave of sustainable raw materials and get creating!