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Art’s Deadly Green: The Colour That Captivated Artists

  Green is the colour of nature, renewal and life. It evokes balance and calm, growth and vitality. Yet behind its serene symbolism lies one of the most unsettling stories in the history of art. Some of the most admired greens ever created, those that coloured the walls of Victorian homes and the masterpieces of great painters, were also ...

Simple Enamelling - a complete guide

Simple Enamelling - IntroductionPrecise records of where and when enamelling first began are unavailable, however, it is thought that the craft originated in one of the western European civilizations. Egypt and China, too, have contributed greatly to the enamelling knowledge over the centuries. Most of the enamelling executed before the middle of ...

Celebrating Our 30 Runners-Up: A Showcase of Extraordinary Student Creativity

Following an incredible response to our 2025 Specialist Crafts Catalogue Competition, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the 30 talented runners-up whose artwork moved, inspired and delighted our judging panel.This year’s entries reminded us of something powerful: when young people are given the space, materials and encouragement to ...

Celebrating Creativity: Our Catalogue Competition Winners

  We’re thrilled to announce the winners of our 2025 Specialist Crafts Catalogue Competition, a celebration of creativity, imagination and the incredible talent found in classrooms across the globe.This year’s competition invited art students to design artwork that captures the joy and power of creativity in education. The ...

The Secret Life of White: Exploring the History of Art’s Most Essential Pigment

  The Importance of White in Art   White may seem simple at first glance, but it has played a vital role in art for centuries. From subtle highlights that give paintings depth to brilliant strokes that make a canvas shine, white is far more than a neutral tone, it is the foundation of painting:   - Creating highlights that give ...

Weaving - a complete guide

Weaving - IntroductionThe use of card and board looms forms an interesting introduction to the early stages of hand weaving. With this simple apparatus it is possible to study the fundamentals of design, use of colour in textiles and to produce an extensive range of articles which will be of great value to both the home craftworker and needlework ...

Cold Enamelling - a complete guide

Cold Enamelling - IntroductionCold enamel is a great product for many reasons. The finish is as attractive and resilient as traditional enamelling, however there is no need for a kiln. This make it affordable and the process extremely simple. Once mastered, you will be able to produce items for yourself and beautiful gifts for friends.ContentsWhat ...

Specialist Crafts Paper Guide

  Specialist Crafts Paper Guide   Cartridge paper is one of the most commonly used papers in schools today. Its plain, smooth sufrace makes it ideal for designing and sketching with pencils, pens and inks. We strive to offer a range of sizes in a variety of weights. All are good qualty and excellent value. Use our chart below to see ...

Stencil Printing Techniques: How to Use Stencil Card for Clean Prints

  Stencil card has a waxy finish which resists the moisture from the ink and lasts longer than paper. By placing the stencil card under the mesh prevents the squeegee from catching on the cut edges.  Step by step - Let's CreateChoose a bold graphic design, which will hold it’s rigid form when cut. You can either print out a design ...

Posca Pens Techniques: How to Create Bold Designs on Any Surface

  Posca pens are perfect for creating bold, bright and illustrative designs. They can be used on various surfaces and are available in multiple nib sizes and assorted sets. Posca pens can be diluted with water to produce a gradient effect, mixed together when wet, or used straight from the pen and layered!  Step by step - Let's ...
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