Hi John, thank you for taking time out to answer a few questions for us. We love watching you on TV, you have such a great way of demonstrating and teaching. How did you get into working on the telly?
Sue Wilson came across my blog John Next Door whilst I was living in Spain and we started to correspond. I loved her stamps, dies and all her work ( she is still a Craft Idol for me lol) she liked what I was creating. I joined the Design team at Creative expressions on my return to the Uk, and when Sue found out I did amateur dramatics then the deal was sealed, she realised I could work on stage, so TV should be possible.
I know you are busy up and down the country – do you still love running workshops and doing the retail shows?
I love meeting all the people who attend the workshops, demo days and retail events I can’t get enough of it! I find that working with other crafters gives me fresh ideas and perspectives on my work. Like all crafters I find I thrive in the company of other dedicated creative people.
It must have been so exciting when you launched your own products, was it a little scary as well?
It was terrifying! I spend months designing my stamps and products making sure they are right which is the exciting bit of the process. However launching them to other crafters has got to be the scary part, will other crafters like them and find them useful. I suppose I am abit selfish in the design process, as I draw what I like without thinking whether others will share my love of them.
Is there any part of crafting that drives you mad (mines how I constantly “loose” whatever I’m working with!!), what’s yours?
I’m with you on that one, I spend hours looking for items that I need that are always right in front of me!
Is there any part of crafting that drives you mad (mines how I constantly “loose” whatever I’m working with!!), what’s yours?
I’m with you on that one, I spend hours looking for items that I need that are always right in front of me!
Finally, you obviously love different types of crafting, is there anything on your list that you really want to try?
Ive just bought the candle making kit form Hochanda ( to make candle cupcakes) I can’t wait to give it a try candle making is something I’ve always wanted to learn.
Thank you so much John, we can’t wait for more of your shows.
Tune in to Hochanda every day 24/7 for lots of fun and crafty demonstrations! Watch our programmes live > Hochanda.com
You can also tune into Hochanda on Freeview channel 39, Sky channel 663 or Freesat 817.
Shirley says:
I love the work of Sue and John and always look forward to watching what they make. I sometimes record their shows so I can look back when I am stuck for inspiration.
Shirley