About Us

In 1995 two local farmer’s wives were introduced by their husbands and found they both enjoyed interests in needlework.

One afternoon whilst sharing a coffee with their two young children, they had a brainstorming session and decided to go into business together. They really wanted a hobby but also something that fitted in with young children. As they were both enthusiastic dress makers they came up with the idea of embroidering country clothing and selling it at agricultural shows and craft fairs. Having a child each with a name beginning with a J, it was decided that Initial J would be the name of the new venture.

For the next 5 to 6 years they travelled around many shows and craft events selling their clothing. They each went on to have another child, but continued to work at week-ends. In 1997 things changed. “We wanted to do something different and unique, so we both started looking at ideas and wondered what we could do to utilise our hobbies and our talents” says Alison. They both knew what they wanted and decided to form a business partnership on a professional level and looked at ways to progress their ideas from a hobby into a commercial business, so in 1997 they set up their business- Initial J Promotions Ltd and sealed it by holding their first official needlecraft exhibition at the Newcastle Metroradio Arena in 1998.

“It was a very difficult year but we both knew we were on to something with the interest it created and the feedback we received both from exhibitors and the general public who had attended the three day event. With one exhibition behind us and a lot of hard lessons learned, we set about organising the next year’s event” said Yvonne.

10 years on and things are still changing! Pins and Needles, Needlework and Craft show has become a very well loved show by many visitors who faithfully return every year. It has grown so much over the years. It includes a wide range of crafts and follows crafting trends, but remains loyal to needlework at its heart. A huge range of workshops are available to tempt visitors to try something new or improve a current skill! Demonstrations and displays also form a large part of the show. A wide range of Craft Guilds are invited to attend, giving visitors the chance to meet up with other like minded crafters and be inspired! A bi-annual quilt show is held within Pins & Needles showcasing the work of some very talented individuals.

Creative Crafts for Christmas was launched in October 2000. This show has a completely different aim, although it has grown from Pins and Needles. It provides a seasonal selection of crafts, craft supplies to make gifts, seasonal workshops and demonstrations and the opportunity to purchase original quality gifts, often produced by local crafters. This show has grown over the years and includes a wide range of crafts and follows crafting trends. Needlecraft is represented in a smaller way at this show and Art is about to make its presence in 2008.

One of the best things about both shows is that visitors get the chance to touch and feel before they buy and be inspired by new products and designs, brought by exhibitors from all over the country. Internet sales are vital to crafters, but the chance to see so many crafts and crafts supplies, all together under one roof and on one level, gives everyone a wonderful opportunity in the heart of Newcastle upon Tyne.

After 10 years co-ordinating events with Initial J, Yvonne left the business in July to pursue a new career. We wish her every success and happiness for the future. Alison has risen to the challenge of continuing the business with a fantastic team behind her- Louise, Caroline and Charlotte make up Initial J Team.

Alison and Yvonne’s original words still ring true “Success has been built on strong friendship and partnership and above all a great sense of humour.”

OUR ATTENTION TO DETAIL & QUALITY PROVIDES THE PERFECT BACKDROP FOR SUCCESSFUL RESULTS.

Here is to many more years of top quality craft exhibitions in the North East!

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