Introducing Dave Bradford

Tell us more about your job role?

I'm a presenter here at HobbyMaker. I’ve had many highlights in the last 6 months, it was a huge honour to launch HobbyMaker with my good friends Sara and Sandra. I honestly feel the most at home I’ve ever felt at work! If that makes sense? Maybe that comes over on screen?

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

Being able to showcase so many different crafts and skills and to inspire everyone at home to ‘give it a go'.

Do you craft yourself?

I'm a sketcher and an avid model maker. I'm working on a 200th scale model of Titanic at the moment.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Robbie Williams - Angels.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

I’d be my cat. She has a life of Riley.

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Introducing Cheralene Lavery

Tell us more about your job role?

I’m a presenter on HobbyMaker which means I prep shows before we go live with my fab producer Cat, wonderful floor managers Ellie/Alex and whichever guests we have on the days show. I then get to see demos first hand and discuss products live on the show - it’s a great job. We have so much fun and I feel so lucky to work with such talented crafters every day.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

The people! Everyone who works on the channel is so lovely - I love coming in to work each day.

Do you craft yourself?

I try.... and I’m learning more each day from our brilliant crafters. I’ve always loved scrapbooking and crafting with my little boy, but since working on HobbyMaker I’ve started making my own cards also. I love how personal they are and how professional they look with the products from HobbyMaker.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

I have a few.... maybe Dancing Queen at the moment- although I’m a terrible singer haha.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

A bird as I’d love to be able to fly. Maybe an eagle- as not only can they fly, but they also have great eyesight (something I also lack).

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Introducing Andy Love

Tell us more about your job role?

I am the Head of Sales for Hobbymaker – so a large part of my job is developing partnerships with new and existing suppliers. I am also directly responsible for the presenters, producers and guests – this involves training, motivating, setting targets, and developing an ‘in house style’ that is consistent with the brand across TV and E-Commerce.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

The small, focussed team, committed to deliver something special to the market, which we are doing. Seeing the growth, as a business and in the people I have trained, is fantastic.

Do you craft yourself?

Yes – I am a digital crafter and have designed calendars, cards and scrapbooks. I can lose myself for hours in a project, and I can see how important crafting is. It touches your heart in many ways and is immensely gratifying. Everyone has a need to be creative.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

I got asked this recently by our group MD and got told that my response was ‘very depressing’. So in case he reads this – I would say ‘Mr Brightside’ by The Killers.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

Dog. They live in the moment and are happy when exercised and fed!

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Introducing Liam Dickins

Tell us more about your job role?

I am the Content & Planning Manager who looks after all of our amazing suppliers and show content. On a typical day you will find me running around the office and on the phone talking to suppliers.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

I love the people!

Do you craft yourself?

I’ve dabbled in Craft, I have created many pieces of jewellery, Candles and more. Nowdays I have become handy with a paint brush.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Reach for the Stars – S Club 7

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

Bird, so I can fly away and feel the wind between my feathers.

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Introducing Julie Peplow

Tell us more about your job role?

My role in the Hobbymaker team is as a Planning Assistant. I book in and schedule all the products for each show we air and deal with enquiries from our suppliers.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

Being part of an amazing team, everyone is so friendly and we manage to have lots of laughs during our busy working day. As a crafter I have the added bonus of seeing all the exciting new products before they launch.. which is fab!!

Do you craft yourself?

I have enjoyed crafts for as long as I can remember and love to try anything new. My main passion is cardmaking, stamping. Painting and creating home decor.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Errrmmmm I don’t really do Karaoke but if I had to chose it would be either ‘I Love Rock n Roll’ or anything by Whitney, Mariah or Beyonce.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

A bird as they are very creative making their own home out of bits they gather.

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Introducing Angela Garbett

Tell us more about your job role?

I work as a Planning Assistant for Hobbymaker, originally from within the contact centre so have a good all-round knowledge of the company.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

The people – such a good team and I love all the products

Do you craft yourself?

Yes – a little different to crafting as I am a fully qualified Nail Artist – some of the crafts we supply can be applied to nails – Glitter – Inks – Flowers etc

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Rappers Delight – The Sugar Hill Gang – (I know all the Words)

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

A bird – Intelligent and free.

Introducing Cat Wilcox

Tell us more about your job role?

As a producer I plan the shows with the guests and designers to talk with the team about getting you the best deals!

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

I love working with the team, from everyone you see on air to all the people who work tirelessly behind the screens everyone is excited and passionate about the channel, always thinking of new show ideas. It’s a pleasure to come into work everyday with them all!

Do you craft yourself?

In a previous life I was on tour as a Wardrobe Assistant, and I have also worked on Sewing Street so my crafting is usually in the fabric form! I have an EPP project which I have had on the go since lockdown and dip in and out of when I get the time. When I was growing up, my Nan’s neighbour taught me card making, mainly decoupage, and jewellery making, and made my own prom jewellery 😊

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Destiny’s Child – Jumpin’ Jumpin’

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

A real human being.

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Introducing Hayley Bryant

Tell us more about your job role?

I manage the brand and content side of marketing for HobbyMaker (as well as JewelleryMaker and Sewing Street). I was part of the team that set up HobbyMaker where I initially did everything marketing wise from social media, emails to building the front end of the website. That was until Olivia joined. Now I am responsible for bringing you more content in form of blogs and video tutorials, organising events such as Create It (late September in Kent) and Creative Craft (November in Birmingham) and getting more people to hear about HobbyMaker.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

The team – everyone genuinely loves working here and is passionate about making HobbyMaker the best craft channel as well as building our crafting community.

Do you craft yourself?

I try. I knit – mainly blankets as it gets colder. And I have recently been to a paint and sip night which was great to learn how to paint step-by-step.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Toto Africa!

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

A penguin.

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Introducing Olivia West

Tell us more about your job role?

I'm the marketing executive, my role covers everything marketing related from social media to emails and blog content to themed campaigns. I work closely with Hayley to spread the word about HobbyMaker! It's exciting to be part of 😊

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

I'd sum up HobbyMaker up as an environment to inspire and that's what I love most about it. The combination of being surrounded by a passionate and encouraging team, with the opportunity to inspire others (that's you guys!) to get creative and enjoy crafting!

Do you craft yourself?

I give it a go! I'll pick up the colouring pencils every now and again and spend 20 minutes or so relaxing with a cuppa whilst colouring in. My grandpa was a crafter back in the day and spent many afternoons cardmaking - this certainly inspired me to make cards for special occasions throughout the years. (However, I can't say they were up to his standard though - but I do enjoy getting creative nevertheless).

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

You're more likely to see me on the dance floor rather than with a microphone in my hand. However, my go-to would always be Earth, Wind and Fire - September or Tina Turner.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

Well, it has to be a cat! Endless amounts of fun, fuss and food.

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Introducing Laura Gibson

Tell us more about your job role?

I’m one of the producers on HobbyMaker so I spend a lot of time planning the shows with the presenters and guests and the rest of the team to make sure we’re putting together the best show possible for everyone at home.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

Definitely the people we work with. We have such a lovely team and everyone works so hard and dare I say - we have a lot of fun! It’s just a lovely environment to work in.

Do you craft yourself?

I have dabbled here and there in the past but I wouldn’t say I’m an avid crafter. My Auntie used to try to teach me know to knit but I could just never get the hang of it. Working on other crafting channels relating to Jewellery and Sewing however, has given me the chance to have a go at a few other crafts but I’m definitely no expert.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Maybe something by the Spice Girls. Although I’m really not a huge fan of Karaoke so I try and avoid it as much as I can.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

Definitely a dog. Eat, Sleep and be fussed over all day - the dream.

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Introducing Scott Stone

Tell us more about your job role?

As the MD of Gemporia Craft I spin a few plates, but I like to describe my job as supporting, developing, and engaging with the talented teams to bring the best possible craft products to our brands on a daily basis.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

No two days are the same. One moment we’re celebrating a birthday and the next we’re travelling around Craft events finding the latest products and demonstrators. I personally love working with people and we’ve got some incredible people within our teams.

Do you craft yourself?

I’m not sure I would call it crafting but my daughter loves anything to do with scissors, glue, sticking and stickers which takes over our house, walls, and weekends.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Embarrassingly Craig David 7-Days. I’m sorry.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

My daughters would say I’m Daddy Pig (from Peppa Pig), but I’ve always loved Lions & Penguins. So, either of those.

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Introducing Chloe Jones

Tell us more about your job role?

My role is Head of TV and I look after the studio, the crew, and the output for all 3 craft channels. I also look after the editing team and work on all the promotion videos that play out during the breaks.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

Meeting so many different people. It’s lovely to have such a big team of guests who work with us and bring such variety to the channel.

Do you craft yourself?

When I was a child I spent a lot of time in hospital and use to make jewellery to sell and help raise money for the children’s ward. Since HobbyMaker has launched I’ve found the world of papercraft fascinating and I’ve been crafting at home with my son who is loving making his own cards. I also make my own candles.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Dolly Parton 9-5 – love it!

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

A turtle, so I can always work from home or a hyena as I love to laugh.

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Introducing Emilymae Darby

Tell us more about your job role?

I help manage all of HobbyMaker’s social media, from Facebook to TikTok!

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

Learning and being a part of amazing craft projects!

Do you craft yourself?

I do my best… though I am very much a novice.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Anything by Taylor Swift!

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

A golden retriever because who doesn’t love nice walks and a sleep in the afternoon.

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Introducing Paul Martin

Tell us more about your job role?

I am the current Ecommerce Manager for Gemporia Craft, which means I also work on the look, design & promotional activity for Sewing Street, JewelleryMaker as well as HobbyMaker. I work closely with Adam, Hayley, Olivia & Emilymae in the marketing team to bring the latest brands & products to the website.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

The team are just a lovely bunch. From the presenting team to the back-room staff, everyone is extremely approachable and kind. I also enjoy the pace at which we deliver new products to our customers. This keeps the job extremely interesting and makes every day that little bit different.

Do you craft yourself?

When I was a student I used to love art and graphic design. I’ve always found some form of enjoyment from being creative. I now have a little boy at home who loves to bust out the crayons and paints at any given time. We love making a mess with the paint pots and hanging his pictures on the fridge.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Firstly I’d like to point out I can’t sing in the slightest, though I love music. I played bass guitar for a band for years. We would play mostly weddings and parties, but I was never the singer. If I had to choose, I’d pick Dakota by Stereophonics.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

I would have to choose a Giraffe. I’ve always been very tall, but in the summer, I get lots of freckles across my cheeks and nose.

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Introducing Rosie Wells

Tell us more about your job role?

As a presenter on HobbyMaker, I interview guests and find out how they use the fantastic kits that they’ve put together for you. It’s my job to ask the right questions so that you can understand the different ways you can use your craft kits at home!

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

The HobbyMaker team is brilliant and I feel so lucky to be joining them! Being surrounded by creative people who have so many wonderful ideas is really exciting and everyone has been so welcoming since I joined!!

Do you craft yourself?

Before I became a presenter, I taught art and design in secondary schools. I still love to draw and paint when I get the chance, but I’m very out of practice and there are so many crafts that I’ve never tried!! I’m looking forward to learning from our guests and being inspired to have a go.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

4 Non Blondes - What’s Up.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

I’d love to be a dolphin - they always look like they’re having the best time in the waves and I adore the sea!!!

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Introducing Zena Broadbent

Tell us more about your job role?

I absolutely LOVE Presenting on HobbyMaker. I just wish that I had discovered the wonderful world of crafting years ago!

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

Getting to stand next to our incredible Designers/Demonstrators from our fabulous range of brands/mediums etc. They make it look so easy.

Do you craft yourself?

I do craft now, since becoming a Presenter on HobbyMaker. As with all Crafters, I can’t stop buying all of the fabulous goodies from our ever growing brands. Lots to learn but I am loving making cards and boxes.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Hot Stuff by Donna Summer. I used to sing in a 7-Piece Pop Band and always loved belting this number out! My Mom was a professional singer and I used to sing with her too whilst she was alive.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

My Dog Ivy. She has the best diet, gets lots of healthy treats, has a great daily exercise regime, doesn’t drink alcohol and is loved unconditionally. Isn’t that what we all strive for as humans?

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Introducing Hayley West

Tell us more about your job role?

I’m one of the Presenters on HobbyMaker and get to work alongside our fabulous guests who demonstrate all of the wonder craft products we sell on HobbyMaker.

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

I get to work with some wonderful people who love to bring amazing tv shows to our viewers.

Do you craft yourself?

I do, in lots of areas. I’m a regular Scan and Cut Crafter, love my sewing too and love up cycling denim shirts some of which I wear on air. I’m also crocheting granny squares that will hopefully end up being part of a jacket.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Mmmm Karaoke …. In my head it sounds perfectly in tune but I don’t think the audience would agree. I love a good rock ballad or something like Living on a Prayer by Bon Jovi. Yes that would involve a bit of audience participation to distract them from my voice hahaha.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

As a little girl I used to love to pretend to be a horse galloping around with my hair in a ponytail swishing around haha. Nowadays probably something less energetic ….. like one of my dogs who spend most of their life snoozing in the sunshine. Not a bad way to live eh.

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Introducing Nigel May

Tell us more about your job role?

My job is as presenter on HobbyMaker so I have the fabulous task of showcasing brilliant crafty products to everyone and watching and learning from our inspirational team of guest experts. My job means that I get to surround myself with glittery things and a kaleidoscope of colour every time I'm in the studio. What a totally wondrous way to earn a living!

The best thing about working at HobbyMaker?

The best thing for me about working at HobbyMaker is that I seem to laugh and smile a lot every time I'm there. It's such a fun place to work and everyone there is keen to make the best crafty TV shows possible. I knew a lot of people who worked there even before I started so it's great for me to see so many familiar faces, plus lots of shiny happy new ones too.

Do you craft yourself?

I have been involved with the crafting industry for the longest time and I have such a massive respect for it. It brings such joy to so many people. I'm not a cardmaker as such but my craft of choice is upcycling old furniture. Nothing pleases me more than finding an old bookshelf or chest of drawers in a charity shop and giving it a lick of paint or covering it in decoupage papers to create something new and unique. I have lots of items of furniture at home that have been given a crafty makeover.

Go-to Karaoke Anthem?

Dolly Parton's 9 To 5 is always a winner as is Islands In The Stream by Dolly and Kenny Rogers. And Yes Sir I Can Boogie by Baccara. I'm old school in my karaoke tastes.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

Without doubt I would be a cat. They sleep up to 18 hours a day, do exactly whatever they like and get us humans to tickle their bellies when they lie flat on their backs. What is not to like about that? Cats literally rule!

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