Each month we have the pleasure of getting to know our guests a little better by giving them this opportunity to share with us their crafting background, stories and inspiration. Last month we learnt lots about Bee Crafty – if you missed it, catch up here!
This edition is as exciting as ever as we celebrate…
Jo Channon
Hello Crafters! I’m Jo and I have the absolute pleasure of working as a freelance craft demonstrator on Hochanda. I work for a fabulous array of different craft companies including That’s Crafty, Oakwood Archer, Crealies, Artistic Flair, Pink Pig and Lasersmith.
I have been crafting for many years, beginning with dressmaking and cross stitching and then moving into the vast world of paper crafting. My professional crafting journey began 15 years ago, and I haven’t looked back since. I have had the privilege of working with some amazing companies with some equally amazing products. I also run my own business called Let’s Create with my husband Mark and we run workshops around the country and teach at art and craft exhibitions in many areas of the UK.
I absolutely love meeting lots of crafters and likeminded people. Teaching crafts is where my passion lies as well as travelling miles to teach workshops to lots of crafters at all different levels of ability. I love to show students how to get the very best out of their crafty stash.
Mixed media is, without doubt, my favourite technique whether it is on cards, canvasses or home décor. To start off with a blank canvas and then sit with your paints, inks and stamps and have a thoroughly enjoyable time is the best!
One of the main crafty tips that I would 
like to pass on to fellow crafters is to concentrate on one particular craft and enjoy it. Rather than dipping your toes into lots of different crafts, explore and expand on the chosen craft before moving onto another.
Another handy tip that I cannot recommend enough: buy products that have a multifunctional use so that you can get lots of value from them!
Do not hesitate to ‘give it a go’ if there is something you have fancied doing. There is so much advice, knowledge and inspiration amongst crafters… they will guide you through venturing into a new crafty area. Over the years I have met some really fabulous people in the crafty world, and many have become firm, life-long friends.
I love to share my ideas and inspiration through social media platforms, and I am always thrilled to be asked to participate in making a project for the Hochanda Freedom magazine!
I am looking forward to bringing you lots of new products and inspiration to Hochanda in the future – I hope you will join me and keep sharing all of your amazing projects!
We hope you have enjoyed this edition of Guest Showcase, thank you to Jo for joining us! Feeling inspired? Stock up on all your craft essentials now!