American Quilt Retailer Archives - Page 20 of 27

Posted on April 3, 2019April 1, 2019 by AQR Piece by Piece — Leave a comment

Check Out Your Checkout

Have you ever thought about what your checkout counter should or shouldn’t have? When you think about it, it’s the most important part of your store (aside from the window display, but that’s encouraging business from the outside in). By the time customers make it to checkout, they’re ready to spend their hard earned cash on the products you’ve provided. Here are some ideas to make the most of that space.

Encourage impulse buys. This is a great place to put gift cards and small, must need items. Examples include thimbles, rotary cutters, needles, and other quilting notions. Anything you can think of that would nicely round out a crafting project should be placed here.
Spice up the place. Adding a plant to the counter or quotes that inspire you are easy ways to do this. This is also a great place to put seasonal decorations, and to make a statement with your personal style. Having art on the counter can transform the entire room. Also make sure you have great lighting here, too.
Advertise. This is the one place in the store customers are static and attentive. If you’ve been thinking about adding a TV to your store, behind the checkout counter is the perfect place to do it. Have a slideshow of different store products run all day. If you’d rather skip this, then definitely put your social media handles in the vicinity to grow your social following.

What else can I add to my checkout?

If you contribute to a charitable cause, your checkout is a perfect place to display that, and to encourage others to donate. Every business has a checkout counter, so take note of what they include and what you’ve bought last second. Talking to other business owners is always a great way to get ideas. Share your thoughts by commenting below; let us know what has worked for you.

Have you heard the news? American Quilt Retailer is hosting the opening session at spring Quilt Market in Kansas City! Their Schoolhouse Series includes breakout sessions and an opportunity to gain firsthand knowledge from the people who make, design, or write about the products you sell. Register to attend today.

Posted on March 27, 2019March 25, 2019 by AQR Piece by Piece — Leave a comment

Industry Changes

The quilting industry, like anything, is constantly changing. These changes vary from learning how to promote your business on social media or building a website, but there are still trends that affect your brick-and-mortar store.

A Sustainable Industry

Consumers are becoming more aware of where their products come from and how they are made. Nobody feels happy about giving money to a company who makes goods out of sweat shops, or a company with blatant disregard on their waste. How much do you know about the products you carry? How could you go about finding out more about their carbon footprint?

Payment

Consider how many customers wrote you checks this month, compared to 10 years ago. I would guess the amount of electronic transactions your business receives (and let’s be honest, gives) has drastically declined. Look into different payment options; does your store have an iPad that could benefit from Square? Has anyone asked you recently if you accept Apple pay? Does setting up direct deposit to pay your employees make more sense?

Customer Data

Online customers and in-store customers are equally important. How much do you know about the purchasing history of people who walk into your store? What customers prefer shopping online? Who does both? With multiple ways to get to your product, it’s important to keep tabs on this information so you can tailor an amplified experience when a customer comes in your door.

People who say retail is dying is missing the point; what is retail but an experience? Those who can maximize the experience for the customer while maintaining their brand are the retail stores that will continue to thrive.

Of course, there are many trends that effect the way customers shop, and how stores can meet their needs. Leave a comment if you’ve noticed any changes or have any suggestions.

If you’re looking for more information to guide you in owning a retail business, subscribe to American Quilt Retailer today. Already a subscriber? No worries—join our Facebook group for insights and dialogue from industry specialists like you.

Posted on March 20, 2019March 18, 2019 by AQR Piece by Piece — Leave a comment

Inspiring the Next Generation

How can quilters inspire the next generation?

When I started thinking about this topic I imagined kids, young girls (or boys) around eight to 14 who like to spend time with grandma and want to learn some of the things grandma can do.

As I started researching this project, I soon found out my idea of the “next generation” needed to be much broader.

As it turns out, many young people—think ages eight to late 20s—want to learn how to quilt but don’t know how to start.

Young Adults

There are many obstacles preventing these young adults from taking the next step; they don’t have access to a sewing machine, they weren’t introduced to the craft until they received a baby blanket for their first child, etc.

But there are many ways quilt retailers can help. Having classes where everyone is a beginner is a good place to start.

Also reaching out to this audience where they already are is a good idea. This social media-saavy demographic can even help you, if you don’t feel comfortable with Instagram take a poll at one of your events to find out what content your audience would like to see, then cater to that. As with anything, the more you use something, the easier it will become.

Youth

As for youth, it turns out classes are a good way to reach them too. Consider having a mother/daughter event that goes over the basics of sewing, and have easy projects so attendees can leave feeling accomplished.

The DIY industry is bigger than ever, it’s just up to us to tap into new talent.

Leave a comment below of your favorite children-inspired or quilting for beginners products and media.

Posted on March 13, 2019March 11, 2019 by AQR Piece by Piece — Leave a comment

History of Quilting

The history of quilting; one subject I had never considered even though I have been quilting nearly all my life.

The question came to mind as I thought about best practices to influence younger generations into the art form (that post to come). What makes people like quilting? When and where did it start?

And that’s when I realized, I had no idea what the history was. I had always assumed it was a tradition passed generation from generation, but how did the tradition begin?

Origin

Although an exact date is not known, quilting is thought to have begun sometime between the first century B.C. to second century A.D. and the oldest quilt was found on the carved figure of a Pharaoh who ruled during Egypt’s First Dynasty, 3400 B.C.

Quilts were also found useful during the Middle Ages—knights would wear them beneath armor for comfort and throw quilts over armor to protect from the elements.

The New World

Flash forward to settlers coming to the new world, although no quilts can be found from this time, the art of quilt making likely arrived with the inhabitants.

The reason why no quilts could be found makes sense; quilts were utilitarian. They became useful, everyday tools: to provide warmth on a bed, mats for children, walls in one room houses, and more.

The earliest surviving American quilt is dated at 1704, thanks to an exposed newspaper clipping used as padding.

Modern Traditions

Quilting transformed into a social event during the settlement of the Great Plains as a way for women to socialize. Quilts also transformed into heirlooms and a form of fundraising, especially during the World Wars, and even continuing into today.

So why did quilts survive the test of time? Because the problem they solve still exists—protection from the elements—and as it turns out quilts are a great way to do just that.

*To dive deeper into these subjects, check out these websites.

Posted on March 6, 2019March 4, 2019 by AQR Piece by Piece — 1 Comment

Pets in the Workplace

Pets in the workplace; yay or nay?

As of 2015, eight percent of workplaces allowed employees to bring their pet to work, a three percent increase from 2013. More recent numbers haven’t been released, but with prominent companies like Google and Amazon allowing employees to bring their furry companions, I’m sure that number has grown.

Benefits of Pets

Does your shop have a pet? If it doesn’t, you may want to reconsider.

According to this research, dog-friendly workplaces had less rates of absenteeism and higher productivity. They even reduce stress among pet-owning employees and are said to make a workplace more friendly.

Allowing a pet at work is not only a cheap wellness option (pets lower blood pressure), but could also come in handy when recruiting new hires too.

Concerns

Of course, there are many variables to take into consideration including allergies and checking with the landlord if you don’t own your building.

Other risks might be jeopardizing new business if your customers don’t like pets at work, or unforeseen risks.

To minimize these risks, make sure pets have fully updated vaccinations, maintain good hygiene, introduce them to the workplace slowly, and inform staff of dietary restrictions and needs.

Evaluate

Be sure to do your due diligence. What pets are allowed? Where are they allowed? Should you pet owners sign a waiver?

Ask around at other local businesses that include pets and think how your business compares. What do customers think? How long have the pets been around? What problems have they had?

What is your opinion on furry friends in the workplace? Leave a comment below to weigh in on the conversation.

Posted on February 27, 2019February 25, 2019 by AQR Piece by Piece — Leave a comment

How to Shake the Winter Blues

Are the winter blues making you feel uninspired?

We can all agree we’ve reached the point of winter where news of more snow makes us groan. Spring may be around the corner, but it doesn’t feel like it. And if you’re like me, you’ve contemplated a last second trip to a much warmer place.

This list isn’t going to tell you to print a photo of a beach to hang at your desk (hey, if that works for you, don’t let me stop you), but it will help change your mindset so you can make the most of this weather until warmer days come.

How to shake the winter blues

Lean into the boredom. The days may be dragging, but—believe it or not—boredom may be the answer to inspiring creativity. There is science to back this claim, but many artists also claim that having a job also inspires this creativity. Lucky for you, you have both, so the next time you have a big idea, go for it.
Meditate. There are apps to help you do this, but research shows that some is better than none. There is also a plethora of research that show the benefits, but after the first time I’m sure you won’t need convinced to do more.
Retrain your thinking. I’ve been struggling with this line: “What’s good is bad and what’s bad is good.” My busy schedule has made me used to not having free time, so when I find myself with it I don’t know how to enjoy it. I’ve come to enjoy what’s bad (never taking time for myself) to hating what’s good (having free time to enjoy time to myself). Take the time this winter to retrain this mindset.

Winter activities may be more constrained than summer ones, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be just as enjoyable. Rest is good, and hopefully these changes can help you enjoy it.

Posted on February 20, 2019February 18, 2019 by AQR Piece by Piece — Leave a comment

It’s Time for a Website Overhaul

It seems like 2019 is the year of the website; almost everyone I know is working on or trying to update theirs.

The best advice I’ve heard this this: your website should reflect you.

Think about what you want – and what you want to evoke. Use these guidelines to help set a goal for your site before you start the project.

Website Content

What should a website include? I think the best answer is whatever you want your company’s webpage to do. No two sites are the same, which can be the best and worst part about the process.

Also think about how much maintenance you want to put into your website; if you want to include a weekly or bi-monthly blog, then by all means go for it! Be realistic when you consider how much time you really have though, if you already feel stretched too thin have your webpage include more evergreen features.

Your site should address the who, what, and where immediately on your homepage, and all information should not be more than three clicks away. When it comes to copy, less is more.

Funding the Project

And the part nobody likes to talk about – price. Remember you get what you pay for, so if you don’t currently have a website budget, start one.

While you wait for the site savings to grow, do some research with local businesses (with webpages you like) to see who built their website and how much they spent. Also while you’re waiting for more funds, keep up to date with what you like, don’t like, and want for your website so you’re ready when design begins.

Planning Ahead

In today’s social media-driven society, plan on addressing your site again in five years. Whenever changes happen within your business, your website should reflect that, too.

Find your annual checklist and add a site review to that list. The more work we do in the meantime means less work when it comes time for another website overhaul.

Posted on February 13, 2019February 11, 2019 by AQR Piece by Piece — 1 Comment

Spinrite Acquires Coats & Clark Inc.

Leading producer of yarn Spinrite diversifies offering with purchase of the North American Crafts business of Coats.

The Canadian based craft yarn company is still closing the deal, but will absorb prestigious craft brands such as Red Heart, Coats & Clark, Aunt Lydia, and Susan Bates.

This means Spinrite will be able to offer sewing thread, embroidery thread, trims, and zippers outside of knitting yarn. 560 employees of Coats will also become a part of the Spinrite team along with manufacturing and distributing centers in Albany, Toccoa and Douglas, Georgia.

Coats Group

Coats, known as the world’s leading distributor of industrial thread, has offices in 50 countries across six continents and employs over 19,000 people.

The craft giant also operates in a variety of industries, including apparel where their personal protection technology uses their in-depth knowledge of digital blends to provide “differentiated flame/cut resistant woven or knit products.”

Other industries they operate in include footwear, automotive, medical, and more.

As for their specific brands that will join the Spinrite roster, Red Heart is known for yarn, Aunt Lydia for crochet thread, Susan Bates for craft tools, and Coats for yarn, embroidery thread, and zippers too.

From the acquisition press release, President and CEO of Spinrite Ryan Newell says, “We are thrilled to add the prestigious Coats craft brands to our growing portfolio… Product diversification is one of the key pillars of our long-term strategic plan, allowing us to offer a broader assortment to our retail partners and consumers.”

Stay tuned to the American Quilt Retailer blog to find out about industry news including acquisitions, events, and more.

Posted on February 6, 2019February 4, 2019 by AQR Piece by Piece — Leave a comment

Aurifil Goes Plastic Neutral with Plastic Bank

Aurifil goes Plastic Neutral through a partnership with the Plastic Bank.

Aurifil, considered the world leading manufacturer of 100% cotton thread, asked themselves what they can do to decrease the plastic footprint they create from the thousands of spools left over from their thread used to create garments, quilts, accessories, art, and more.

As it turns out, Aurifil customers care about the same issue, too. Aurifil was consistently getting asked same questions about what their spools were made of and what customers can do to recycle them.

Although Aurifil encourages consumers to reuse spools, they took a look at the ever-increasing plastic build up in our oceans and knew that step alone wasn’t enough.

Going Plastic Neutral

Enter Plastic Bank, a non-profit based in Canada that works to stop ocean plastic while impacting impoverished areas across the globe.

Plastic Bank accomplished their goal by changing plastic to a form of currency. Impoverished communities can exchange collected plastic for money, items, or rewards. By transforming plastic into a form of currency not only does it incentivize collection but makes an economic impact on communities around the globe who are most in need.

The new partnership will offset Aurifil’s plastic production rate by 8000kg. This means that areas around Indonesia, Haiti, the Philippines, and Brazil will clear 8000kg of plastic from their oceans.

Of course you can help the cause too by recycling spools in the traditional sense, or taking note from Kate Brennan, sales and customers serivce at Aurifil, who uses empty spools to store binding.

Individuals have the opportunity to go plastic neutral too, find out more at the Plastic Bank.

Posted on January 31, 2019January 30, 2019 by AQR Piece by Piece — Leave a comment

Threads of Success Registration Open

The wait is over! Registration for this year’s highly anticipated event at Quilt Market, Threads of Success, is now open.

The event takes place from October 25th through the 28th at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas.

Threads of Success will include 35 breakout sessions that include opportunities for networking, lectures from keynote speakers, and educational features.

Geared toward industry entrepreneurs, the sessions will cover topics including writing, inventing, pattern design, Focus Tracks of Fabric Designers, accounting, copyright law, and more.

Of course anyone is welcome at the stand-alone conference but the event will be extremely beneficial to anyone breaking into the industry.

22 industry leaders have already been announced as speakers including Tula Pink of Tula Pink, Inc., Jennifer Keltner of Martingale, Christa Watson of Christa Quilts, and more.

Some of these speakers will present during one of the conference’s three breakfast and two luncheons.

The conference also includes a mentorship program with well-known names in the business and exclusive access to the Quilt Market trade show on the last day of exhibits.

Schoolhouse Series

Registration for Schoolhouse Series is also available upon registration to Threads of Success.

Schoolhouse Series includes over 250 sessions offered in 15-30 minute intervals on October 25th. The information-filled forum provides opportunities for manufacturers, designers, retailers, and veterans of the industry to display new products and techniques.

Both of these events give attendees insider access to a wealth of knowledge. Industry professionals will help you find out how to get published, avoid costly mistakes, market yourself, expand your creative network, and so much more.

Registration for Threads of Success costs $750 for the four day event.

For a complete list of classes and events, check out their website.

Continue reading Threads of Success Registration Open