What NO ONE in the Paper Craft Industry wants to hear!

Hi Creative friends, It's been a rough week for paper crafters. The shocking announcement of the closure of ‪@CTMHcorp‬ this coming June has really hit hard. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of those within the CTMH family. I can only imagine the overwhelm and sadness it will have caused. What a loss to our industry. This news along with that from ‪@heartfeltcreations‬ from last year does have me wondering, is this the beginning of the end? Is Scrapbooking dead? In this video, I share my thoughts.
Gwen xo
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++++++++++ ✂️ In this video
0:00 - Intro.
1:01 - Scrapbooking 20 years ago.
1:48 - What happened in the industry.
2:52 - Online shopping.
5:11 - The one thing that hasn't changed.
6:08 - What happens to our pages?
7:13 - The rise and fall of Digital Scrapbooking.
8:12 - So, where are we now?
9:19 - The future is forward.
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[@CreatedByGwen]

The BEST way you can help support the channel and me as a creative is to SUBSCRIBE 💗 It's free AND I promise to share videos that will inspire and encourage you 🔥

[@beadywoman]

I don’t think that the industry is dying - but I do believe we are being forced to order more online rather than walking into a brick and mortar store, sadly. I personally like to go into a store to make my purchases, to see the actual product, feel the thickness of the papers, cloth, etc. The options for doing that are now sadly limited.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Sadly true.

[@jeannewagner8133]

@beadywoman exactly. I am a visual and tactile buyer. Need to see and feel things in person. Yes online can provide amazing pictures but they are still not the same thing. A camera cannot see what the eye sees, and a monitor cannot reproduce the same colors. Just think about sparkle and shimmer. You can photograph it at an angle, but it is still not the same effect as what you see in person. The lighting plays a part too.

[@mandy.austin]

I usually buy what I can see others using online and order from craft online which is a little bit limiting but I do like to keep the money in the country. I was ordering from overseas for years until I realised local businesses need our money more.

[@CreatedByGwen]

@@mandy.austin Yes, that's true, same for me... so yes shares are good for that and I do partner with Aussie businesses where I can. I've done a bunch in the past 🥰 The "issue" I have (if you can call it that) is that my audience is International... so I need to link to stores that will ship to anyone who is watching the videos and often those are the bigger stores. So for me it's a balance. Trying to support local but also serving my community here on KZbin.

[@sonyafox3271]

Exactly and, Brick and Mortar Stores are selling less and, less products in stores!

[@functionoflightone]

You're absolutely right... those of us who have been cardmaking/scrapbooking for decades simply have enough product. The business side of our hobby is faced with this strange situation in which their biggest audience has zero need/want to buy. I'm currently on a no buy year partly to save money, but mostly to make myself use the things I've purchased over the last 30 years.

[@tabandken8562]

Doesn't need to take decades to collect enough. I started just before Heartfelt Creations announced their closing and been buying their collections for 70% off. Now I have a room full. The plan is that for the next 2 years I'm finishing off the ink collections I started and some other brands of stamps. My SU demonstrator also sold me several boxes of stamps and I want to stamp my own Scrapbook papers, so I'm going to be done buying retail completely, except for plain cardstock.

[@PamMcGarvie]

I buy most of my dies, tools and papers used. I only buy designer paper collections new if so desired. I find enough selection from people getting rid of their stashes.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Agree... I too could go a whole year and not purchase a single thing. It takes a lot for me to order something now, it has to be something special and different.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Perfect timing, getting those at 70% off and you're right, you don't need years and years to gather supplies, in fact, we NEED far less than we think.

[@CreatedByGwen]

True - lots of second hand sale options.

[@debcatman9464]

I don’t think paper crafting will ever die. It’s a cathartic exercise for many of us. As a high schooler, back in the 70’s, I did a lot of cutting and pasting into the old fashioned scrapbooks. While raising my child, I upgraded to the modern scrapbooks and enjoyed shopping and crafting at the scrapbook stores. Now, in my late 60’s, I’ve transitioned to card making and all of the techniques still satisfy my need to create something. And cutting & pasting is still cathartic. Thanks for your encouragement and your post.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I agree, we will find a way to create with paper, it just might look a little different and that's ok 🎀

[@juliashinkle9252]

Junk journaling is very popular now as well. I love it because I use all my supplies that I have been collecting over the years.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I LOVE junk journalling!!! It's so fun! I wish I had more time to do it! You're right too, you can use scrapbook supplies for it, it's a great cross over hobby.

[@TuggerAbbey]

This is my new craft. I have so much paper and we can make journals, travel journals, photo albums….i love that we can make them custom for each person

[@jesseb5112]

I just bought some faith based journal kits and printed them a couple weeks ago. A "simple" gift turned into 32 papers (I think that is 128 pages), maybe 70 pages, written and typed descriptions, notes... etc. I tried scrapbooking, but I didn't enjoy it. Journals are something I love. I've also given a gift of a travelers notebook style journal that was filled with photos, descriptions, and notes. Journals are fun!! I like buying digital, but I am another person who thinks its a great way of using all our different supplies. I tend to print on one side, and do my own thing on the other.

[@CreatedByGwen]

ohhh FUN!!!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Ohhh, I'll have to check these out.

[@TamraHeathershawHart]

I started scrapbooking about 30 years ago. I stopped "scrapbooking" at least 10 years ago, and now I make handmade journals aka junk journals. I'm still stamping, still die cutting, still using scrapbook paper, and still using photos, but my 12x12 cardstock gets folded into 9x6 book covers or cut up into tags, page tucks, and belly bands. All those photos that didn't get used in the layouts that are gathering dust on a shelf are now altered with tea bags or fussy cut into "paperdolls" and used to edge a page. As much as I enjoyed the process of scrapbooking, I didn't have kids and always felt a bit odd about making "heritage" items with nobody to pass them on to. I tell everyone who gets one of my journals that I fully expect them to *use* it and to abuse it until it falls to pieces, and that it is meant to fade and crumble. Ephemera has the same root as "ephemeral" meaning "lasting for a short time" and I've grown to feel that is the best attitude to have about papercrafts. Enjoy the process of buying supplies, enjoy your creating time, enjoy the finished items for a time after completion, then let them go.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Ohhh I love this!! Thank you so much for sharing these thoughts here... I've been getting into Junk Journals of late and love them! 🥰

[@md-1]

Well said.

[@joannagg9707]

That's the way to go. Artists and crafters must keep with how art is evolving. This has always been the case with art throughout the centuries.

[@CreatedByGwen]

@@joannagg9707 I know I'll always be a memory keeper at heart, but the journals are fun, I enjoy those a lot!

[@mrsmcintyre69]

I think you touched on one of the most very important points and that is manufacturers who are releasing HUGE 49 piece collections and FAST....peoples wallets cant keep up, local scrapbook stores cant keep up ...i am fortunate enough to live in a place where i do have a local store. My store owner is very smart about what she brings in and she simply cannot bring in every piece of every collection. I also feel like everything is an exact copy of previous collections. Its the same designs but different color story. I feel paper crafters want new, fresh designs, something to get excited about. Its hard to get excited about buying when every collection has the exact same designs/icons but different colors.

[@Wendybaker2009]

It's the scrapbooking version of fast fashion. It's too much.

[@dking1362]

Right? I don't want to see even one more gnome! And I love flowers, but how many different flower arrangement stamps can I use? I make cards, and I will buy on sale only if it is something really new. Heart design? Have them. Birthday cake? Got it. The last 2 years I have bought a 5-7 sets during Black Friday weekend great sales, and they have given me enough to work with the entire year when combined with what I revisit from my collection!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Yep... and I wonder why is that? I don't think the CUSTOMERS are asking for it, so why??

[@CreatedByGwen]

FINALLY someone who is as passionate as me when it comes to Gnomes. I hate them, if I never see another one again, I'll be pretty happy 🤣

[@melissam9492]

@@CreatedByGwen I don’t like them either. I’m over it. They flood the market with to much of same thing, and wonder why it’s not moving. Shopping has become for me a hobby in its self. I have enough supplies to last me the rest of my life(53). I’m so sad about CTMH😢 I’ve been a hobbyist for almost 10 years. But mostly, it’s the FB markers group I’ll miss most of all, community.

[@marionemberson]

I had a scrapbooking store in the UK, I closed it after 12 years back in 2015, and as long ago as that, I had lots of ‘customers’ coming in, checking out the products and going off to buy on line, where it was cheaper. I even had them telling me they were doing this, and on numerous occasions I had people taking photos of the product so they looked for the right one on line, obviously, they were asked to politely leave 😍 I just became a shop window and this happened to so many other stores over here. The sensible online retailers soon learned that it wasn’t sustainable to reduce the prices as (although not as much) they still had overheads, if they were doing it correctly. My other problem was stealing, even with cameras up, I still lost so much product, and that’s happening here in the uk in other areas of retail. So many of our clothes shops are closing down due to stealing and going on line only… it’s becoming a very sad world 😢😢 I do still think, from time to time, about re opening, as I absolutely loved it and my customers, that many became friends and still are today. I release my creativity here on YT but mainly do card tutorials. Hopefully like most things, it will come full circle and we’ll have a thriving scrapbooking industry back. On another note, I remember saying back in the day, we have to watch American Crafts as they were buying up so many of the little companies, and I said if they go bust, that’s it, that’s our industry gone ! Right, I think I’ve moaned enough, and I’m not a moaner normal, but I’m so passionate about this industry, that I decided to comment. Have a lovely day everyone 🥰🥰🥰

[@jonimitchell6962]

Subscribe to your channel. Love watching you.

[@marionemberson]

@@jonimitchell6962 awww thank you so much❤️❤️

[@CreatedByGwen]

Hey Marion... yes... I have seen this happen too. When I would teach classes, people would want to take photos of the class sample without paying for the class so they could copy it and just make it at home for 'free' and yes, I've been told by customers the same thing about taking a photo and shopping online, so rude!! Thanks for popping by and sharing your perspective... I'm with you, I'm looking forward to the day it comes full circle and we have a thriving scrapbook industry back! Thank you for sharing your creativity online too, your channel is wonderful xox

[@marionemberson]

Thank you Gwen 🥰🥰 I trust it will come back, a bit like punches, they were massive back in the day, dies came in and they died off and now they’re making a comeback again 🙋‍♀🙋‍♀ all card makers should embrace the scrapbooking industry, you get 6 card panels out of a 12 x 12 sheet and most are double sided, so twice the choice and all the ephemera is fab if you don’t have a die cutting machine. Hugs 🥰🥰🥰 @@CreatedByGwen

[@CreatedByGwen]

@@marionemberson You are so right about the paper punches, I'm so happy they are back!! I'm a card maker from way back, it's kind of like Ross and Rachel from friends, was I ever truely on a break 🤣🤣🤣 I've made a bunch of cards this week actually, the scrapbooking ephemera fits super well and you can still have fun with lots of texture and layers if you want to... it may be extra to post but #worthit 💗

[@sigpug]

This video is so thoughtful and you did a great job summarizing the situations which have led us to where we are today in the scrapbooking realm. I was introduced to scrapbooking through a work friend in 2000, and it was at a Creative Memories workshop where I bought my first meager set of supplies. Fast forward 14 years later I converted a bedroom into a craft room for all of the additional supplies I acquired via purchase or gifted. Now, in 2024 I have so much, I don’t have room for more. I have done a few de-stashes in the last couple of years of supplies I learned I didn’t really like or love and to make room for supplies I really loved. Also, some of my fellow crafters are getting older and are downsizing their living arrangements so they don’t have a craft room anymore and need to reduce their supplies. We older crafters have accumulated a lot! I think the MLM scrapbooking/card making companies are going to have a rough time because their products are expensive and the shipping is as well, and they don’t usually have reasonable shipping discounts like online stores do. I made a $70 purchase and the shipping was almost $15. One company sold a die set for $80 and I found that TEMU and WISH sell very similar ones for less than $10. How can a business compete with that? People don’t have the same disposable income like they used to. It’s a tough economy for both buyers and sellers, but I don’t think we will let our hobby die. They can pry my ATG from my cold, dead hands!

[@dking1362]

Oh, how I love my ATG!!!

[@CreatedByGwen]

🤣🤣🤣 Love this!!! Same - they will have to bury me with my ATG 🤣

[@christinegeary4877]

Those sites that are selling similar items for much less have two downsides (IMO): the quality is inferior and they have stolen intellectual property. I have issues with both of those and won’t purchase from them because of that. But I do love my hobby and need to do something creative every day.😊

[@ablessedlifejourney]

We are not dead yet♥ I am a certified papercraft and scrapbook instructor and have been crafting for years. But I'm just now getting serious about card making. Eventually I will be sharing here on my business channel A Blessed Life Studio. I don't plan to let anything stop me from my goal of building a craft business. Thank you for the encouragement♥

[@CreatedByGwen]

Good for you lovely!!! I'm here cheering you on 🎉

[@lindahagler6278]

How do you become certified? I am interested in that.

[@CreatedByGwen]

@@lindahagler6278 I'd be keen to hear more about this too @ablessedlifejourney

[@LilCraftyNook]

Yes!! Same here!! Thank you for posting this/very encouraging!! ❤

[@Debby-The-Inspiration-Station]

Yes. You have made a lot of points. I owned a scrapbook store for 18 years so I have seen the highs and lows. I had my store from 2002-2020 and hated making the decision to close - because of my community. Truth be told, I stayed open way longer than common sense would dictate. The things I found were the most damaging to the industry were very similar to what you pointed out, but perhaps in a different order. I found that in the early 2000's (2005-2007) there was a glut of manufactures pumping out WAY too much product. Not only was there a scrapbook store on every corner, but supplies could be found in discount stores and even grocery stores in some cases. Everybody wanted to get in on the hot trend to make a buck. Then came the rise of specialized craft rooms. Crafters had so much product they needed to convert bedrooms and basements. This led to people not attending crops because they didn't want to pack up all there stuff for just a Friday or Saturday night. Then the digital photography took over and no one was printing photos, especially the younger folks. Without new crafters coming in, the industry stalled. Stores closed and as you said, flooded the market with cheap products that people bought up in massive quantities. Then without the community aspect, people fell away especially as their children grew and there free time was limited. Then the economy took its toll. I love your analogy of the embers in the fire. It's time we stoked that fire once again.

[@CreatedByGwen]

This makes a lot of sense Debby and I am guilty of some of it, especially the bit of being too comfortable in my space here at home and not wanting to pack things up to attend a crop. I so so appreciate you sharing your thoughts here, especially coming from the point of view of a craft store. While I've worked in them, I've never owned one. 100% agree that we stoke that fire again 🔥🔥🔥 xo

[@tabandken8562]

​@@CreatedByGwenWe all have so much stuff that we should be getting together to use each other's supplies. The only things that need to be packed for a crop is paper, scissors, and glue. Consumables mainly so we don't use up the host's supplies. We have all become hermits since social media. We need to start spending time together in person.

[@bobbicampbell5233]

I think you hit a big nail on the head with the advent of digital photography - it abandoned the need for physical photographs and albums for a lot of people, and I think that's still the case. It's kind of like when Netflix came along - it was the death of Blockbuster and other brick and mortar video stores, and it's grown to the point where Netflix isn't even doing DVD rental anymore. It makes one feel they came to paper crafting/scrapbooking at the wrong time, but...I'm still doing it, anyway! 🙂

[@CreatedByGwen]

Nahhh lovely, you came at the perfect time, this community is AMAZING! 😻

[@bobbicampbell5233]

@@CreatedByGwen thank you! Glad to be here! 😺

[@jogriffiths4797]

Congratulations on speaking out with common sense and understanding. Long-time subscriber here, I started scrapbooking about 20 years ago and the annual weekend retreats were one of the highlights of my year, until CM folded. Then I turned to card-making, and apart from cards for friends, I donate all the others I make to a nearby school for Mothers and Fathers Day stalls (feedback is they love them)... because I enjoy the process. I splurged on lots of tools and products while I could, before retirement. I recently joined a local Facebook craft site, where I found out about a couple of regular scrapbooking Saturdays, and community hubs also have general craft sessions to meet other folk.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks for your kind words Jo 🌷 I'm so glad you have found a community to connect into and create for the joy of creating... I've no doubt the school LOVES your cards, there is nothing quite like a handmade card, I bet they sell like hot cakes on the Mother's and Father's Day stalls!

[@rhondaedwards6665]

Well said. Thank for talking about what is happening. 😢😊

[@rhondahunt9888]

Good tip. There are usually local crop days or weekends. We CAN keep it going! I am looking for scrapbookers in central west Florida. If there is a facebook group here, i will hope to connect with someone.

[@rhondahunt9888]

Pinellas county.

[@mandy.austin]

Haha I live in a tiny rural remote town and they don't like my cards so I can't donate them! They like the old-fashioned frilly kinds of things here. I just tell them I card everyone whether they like it or not, like Therese's friend lol lol 😅🤣😂🤣

[@gigiartstudiowithartistvir3919]

Art is one of the most important things humanity has. In a digital world, handmade art is going to thrive. I'm an artist who taught scrapbooking and card making for a few years almost 2 decades ago(I was a SU demonstrator). I then stopped the scrapbooking scene because of a life change, and went back to painting and doing more traditional art which was my background before SU. I'm back now and feel compelled to start using up my stamping and journal making supplies I have amassed. It's been immensely fun rediscovering things I haven't laid eyes on in 18 years. I am now combining my fine art skills with my scrapbooking skills. Paper is so tactile and a joy to work with. I don't think the craft will die out either for all the reasons you stated. I want to start teaching again and build a new community of artisans. I'm addicted to junk journals now, and have bought quite a bit more stuff to fill in the gaps of my supply collection. Glue and re-inkers were definitely on the list to replenish, and I'll need to buy more stamp cleaner. Amazingly some of my SU ink pads were still juicy and performing perfectly after all that time! Back in a day I told my students their stamp pads would last them a long time. Some of my former students still stamp. One in particular became a demonstrator and to this day she's still hosting stampers in her home. Paper craft is very much alive indeed.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts here 🎀 I have always wanted to 'properly' learn water colour and I love this idea of mixing my love for paper craft with it... you've got me inspired!

[@StephanieD2]

Well….. now suddenly I don’t feel so goofy for hoarding my favorite paper stacks! I have some from Basic Grey and K&Company 😢😢

[@CreatedByGwen]

OHHH I loved Basic Grey, most of my papers from them are long used up.

[@Princess_karen]

I love MayMay made it, that community of crafters is fantastic. It is one of the best online KZbin/Facebook and online stores I have ever found

[@pgtrish]

Agreed, love May May! And she definitely does her part in keeping the community active and growing!

[@jaditelady173mary4]

Maymaymadeit has been one of my favorite online stores & channels for years.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I love her channel, she is so FUN!!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Agreed 100%

[@CreatedByGwen]

Agree whole heartedly.... she is so so FUN!

[@mskimlouise]

This is sad but true. I recently took inventory of my paper crafting supplies. Instead of being inspired, I was almost depressed by the amount of items that I have. Aside from glue, I probably don’t need to buy any more paper crafting supplies for years.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Yep, I see this a lot actually when I help people organise their craft rooms. There is this idea out there that more supplies means more choice and creative opportunities but I've found the exact opposite to be true. Less is more and you can 100% ditch that overwhelm created by having too many supplies. 🎀

[@ThrdWrldGrl]

It’s hard to be inspired when you have so much to choose from. 😊

[@CreatedByGwen]

@@ThrdWrldGrl Truer words have never been said. I feel EXACTLY the same way.

[@tracylee4442]

I also believe that hobbies are trendy too, so they come and go. I saw the cricut industry for vinyl really take over the paper and scrapbooking section in the last few years.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Hobbies sure can be trendy... that's for sure! Cricut has been big of late and crochet too.

[@ebriggs3498]

Counted cross stitch is making a resurgence also!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Ahhh ok... my mum used to do that too (along with knitting) She's a sewer now days.

[@angelonettebolden2700]

Man, I wished that sewing will make a huge comeback!

[@CreatedByGwen]

@@angelonettebolden2700 I hope it will too!!! I love sewing on my projects

[@scumpt]

I say do what makes you happy even if others say crafting is "gone". We need to spend less time on our devices and doing more things with our hands and imagination! I love making cards and sending them to make someone smile.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I could not agree more!! xo

[@rosaliehope5385]

Great video! I agree! I think the papercrafting community is evolving, always evolving. I dont think we are dying, we're changing. I am a ctmh consultant and was shocked snd saddened at the news, but i too was encouraged by some of the makers stating, they're not going away. Ive since been determined to subscribe and like any paper crafting video or channel i come across, my own little way to support and encourage.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Awwww Rosalie, I'm so happy to see this message. I agree, we are evolving. I hope you find a new groove and know that we are all cheering you on!! 🎉

[@lhodge1000]

My iPad was definitely listening to me today as I’ve never seen your videos before and this one was suggested. I told my husband earlier today how much I miss shopping in scrapbooking stores!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Awwww, I'm so glad your iPad found me then 🥰 lol Welcome to the channel lovely!

[@pgtrish]

I started crafting back during the HGTV time when they actually had craft shows, like Carol Duval and many more. Little by little those shows were replaced with shows like house hunters. As much as I love my youtube crafters, there was something about the ones on tv, like the variety of crafts, materials, people, and so much more. Another hit we took was of course the pandemic, my local Michael's used to host so many classes, you'd buy the supplies but the classes was free, and then you actually used the supplies during the class instead of bringing them home to use later, which oft times never get used. Getting to meet new crafters and makers was enjoyable, not to mention the back and forth of sharing ideas and suggestions. The few classes I've seen come back I find uninteresting so I don't go. It's definitely time for a Renaissance!! ❤

[@debbie2837]

Ahh, Carol Deval…such good memories! I used to watch craft & sewing shows daily on PBS. I’d set the VCR for shows I wanted to revisit! Glad UTube has no time limits! But I agree, something is different online vs tv. Maybe because it wasn’t available 24/7.

[@CarrieRay]

Oh my gosh-I used to love watching Carol Duvall. Not sure that there any more shows like that now, but we do have you tube.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Oh gosh, what a fun idea... get the supplies and use them right away!! No taking them home, just pull them out right now and get creating. I love that. Definitely time for a Renaissance! 🎀

[@CodyDoll]

I miss Carol Duval.

[@RonaBerryMorin]

I remember that show

[@barbaracarlson1331]

It’s sad that we are forced to buy on line--postage adds to the costs. So unfortunate what has happened. And then you have to wait and wait and wait!

[@CreatedByGwen]

The wait is the worst right! 🙀

[@jesseb5112]

I am a cardmaker and journal maker. I have seen the supplies in my local bigbox stores dwindle. Several years I watched a video from a creativation panel. One of the hindrances a buyer for a big box store had was the sheer amount of product. They had to make sure that what was on the shelf sold. My sister used to scrapbook. My sister had TONS of supplies. My niece now scrapbooks on college breaks, but uses the supplies my sister already has. My oldest child and daughter-in-law made their own wedding invitations. They used supplies I have. I still shop, but I do regular spending freezes. I haven't bought colored cardstock or patterned paper since late 2019. I will admit that I bought 3 cardmaking kits (50% off) that had some paper in them. I am STILL using my stash of paper. I KNOW that I am not the only one who overbought. I have bought digital paper and printed it. I do cards for church. When I am making 60 cards, this is a great option. I also print journal kits. I have been a fan of Tim Holtz products, and Ranger products. In January of 2023 I bought the Simon Hurley stamping foam for $7.99. Before that my last order was November of 2021. About a week ago, I did make a purchase that included 3 or 4 Tim Holtz stamp sets. All but one was older, and at the older price plus 28% off. I used to watch his release videos and create a wishlist. It felt like more and more products started coming out, I agree with you that it is unsustainable. I did not WANT to "keep up". I also agree with you about the significance of the word destash. In February of 2023, a friend gave me most of her craftroom. I was given A LOT of Stampin Up wooden stamp sets. It had to have been a hundred or more sets. There were some other sets, paper punches, a crocodile, eyelets, brads, and other items. Previously I had been given so many stampin up ink pads that I went through and decided which colors I wanted and gave away the rest. I was even given some stampin up reinkers. I think more people sell or give away their products than used to be common. I think that is also an indicator that many people feel like they have too much. I certainly did. I know very little about CTMH, but I wonder if Stampin Up will be facing similar problems. I agree that community is critical!!!!! Great video

[@LindasOnlineIntel]

Definitely. They have quality products but I limit myself. I believe the party/demonstrator model will be phased out.

[@tabandken8562]

​@@LindasOnlineIntelStampin Up announced that they are doing away with the party/host part of the business. They will phase it out over the year some time.

[@SandraE_]

@@LindasOnlineIntelit’s already happening.

[@jesseb5112]

@@LindasOnlineIntel I have wondered about that. I haven't shopped with them for a few years. It is quality, but I feel like the style has been the same for a while.

[@jesseb5112]

@@SandraE_ I did not know that. I wonder what the new model will be.

[@josimons9765]

Oh Gwen! I feel like I found someone who totally gets me! I go through my layouts often and throw them out as I just can't keep them all and so many people say "how can you do that"? I do it so that I can continue creating because I just can't keep everything and I am passionate about my hobby. If I had to keep everything I had created I would of stopped creating years ago! I have always said to my children that I really don't care at all what they do with the albums I have left behind when I pass. I have had the absolute joy of creating and if they don't bring my children joy then that's ok - everyone is different, throw them away. Its about the creating and connections we make through this beautiful hobby that is so much more important to me that the actual layout. I don't think our hobby is over, I think it is like everything. It goes in waves like lots of things. Crochet and knitting is a perfect example. That was quiet for a while and is now bigger than ever! I love our hobby!

[@CreatedByGwen]

I feel like you 100% get me too! 🤪 We can be crazy together and throw out the layouts we don't love and just create for the joy it gives us and this amazing community.... call me crazy! xox Thanks so much for taking the time to share this, I totally agree, I'm in it for life 💗

[@leithmcdougall4620]

100% agree

[@SandraE_]

I’ve started crocheting again after many years.

[@ThrdWrldGrl]

Right on!

[@tammyalban4462]

When you over price paper and paper crafting products it will die out. Blame greed.

[@plan4life]

Absolutely. Crafting shouldn’t be costly. Buy second hand and use up what’s already in circulation.

[@CreatedByGwen]

The price of supplies is certainly something that has come up here. I've always blamed the prices here in Australia on shipping from the US but it's so interesting to hear the US gals talk about increased prices too. I wonder who is making all the money???

[@CreatedByGwen]

There sure is plenty in circulation that's for sure!

[@bethglenmaddie]

Unfortunately the biggest place for this is still going strong. I think we all know who I'm talking about. (initials SU!)

[@dking1362]

And I have heard only crickets about the 4-letter word that MUST be affecting the industry....TEMU.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I've seen quite a few videos on that... people talking about the impact on the environment, consumerism and craft industry and how bad it is.

[@dking1362]

@@CreatedByGwen While I have heard much about Temu with regards to consumerism and the environment, I have NOT heard any discussion effect upon the paper craft industry and its decline. Guess I have missed them!

[@CreatedByGwen]

I was sponsored by them over a year ago now (not knowing what I know now) and I can tell you I got plenty of feedback from the community about that. You live and learn, what's that saying "know better, do better"... we are all learning and growing here 💗

[@margeneeskelson4165]

I love your thoughts and encouragement for those of us who love the craft and enjoy the feel of paper and glue in our hands!! Your overall industry explanation was very informative to me and encouraging!! Thank you so much!!

[@CreatedByGwen]

You are so welcome, glad you enjoyed this!

[@denisejames855]

Gwen, you have said so much that makes sense to me, a CTMH scrapbooker of some 9 yrs. I have a lot of paper etc but nowhere near what others have on their shelves. I began to cut back a while ago, trying to use what I have but mostly using the CTMH brand. I will now feel free to branch out to many other brands and our group will still meet monthly to share our passion in papercraft.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Oh wow Denise, 9 years is a long time, you must be feeling all the things right now. I'm so glad that one of those is hope and freedom. It's great that you'll be able to brand out into other brands and still enjoy that beautiful community you have built. You're going to end up with the best of both worlds and I'm so happy for you for that.

[@wandakuzyk]

I use to have a scrapbooking store in our small town. I unfortunately had to close but we do have a bunch of us (who use to come to my store )that rent a hall for a weekend and still get together to crop. To get people interested in it bring out your embossing powders. Lol. Works every time. They see the powder change and shine and boom hooked. Thanks for the video!

[@lauraingersoll981]

So true! I’ve been 📔 and making cards for ages but I still am amazed by the embossing powder. There is just something really cool about it.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I love this... you're right... so mesmerising watching them change ✨ like MAGIC!

[@CreatedByGwen]

So fun!

[@SandraE_]

That embossing powder is what started my cardmaking journey. It was pure magic.

[@wandakuzyk]

@@SandraE_ mine too and is still magic every time I use it.

[@thefrugalcrafter]

I think that also there is a lack of younger people entering the hobby. Fewer millennial and gen z people are having kids and I think people scrapbook the most when their kids are young. Also they have smaller homes and less room for a hobby with a lot of stuff that can be expensive to start. There is more reward to sharing on socail media and its easier, quicker and cheaper. My gen z kids will knit, crochet, sew or paint or make diamond paintings as hobbies. Those projects have less sprawl than papercrafts i think. Scrapbooking has been dying for 15 years. It started with the magazines and stores closing. There is still plenty to buy tho and thise who want to scrapbook will still be able to. How many non scrapbookers even print photos anymore?

[@CreatedByGwen]

Hey Lindsay!! You are right, that was the big thing I noticed in my community, lots of creatives who have been creating for a super long time and not so many newbies. My daughter is 17 and she is does a little crafting but does not like 12x12 format and prefers mini projects. It's so hard to get them off of the socials, like you say, easier, quicker, cheaper and in their eyes more rewarding with that immediate feedback of thumbs up. Makes you wonder when the 'number of supplies to buy' will balance out with the number of people buying them?? I'd love to know how many non scrapbookers print photos, I'm guessing 0.000001% at best! 🤣

[@flygirl2447]

I find it sad that the younger generation doesn’t seem to have any interest in any heirlooms or anything with sentimental value. They also don’t have much appreciation for handmade. It’s all going digital. It doesn’t exist unless on their phone. I don’t like clutter myself, so I get why they wouldn’t want the supplies to make things. But finished things that have been made by hand by their mother or grandmother? I think they may regret throwing these things in the trash one day when their loved one isn’t around anymore.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Things sure are changing! I don't like clutter either BUT a craft room doesn't need to feel cluttered, it can feel neat and tidy if the things inside it are managed. We all need far less than we think. Agree that some special handmade items will be of great personal value to them but rows and rows of albums? I can understand them not wanting to take those on.

[@marciawulff]

I have crafted for most of my life. Initially fabrics and more recently Paper crafting. It has changed, like much of the world, but when it’s in your blood you find a way. Community does help and you are doing a great job to promote that. Good vid!!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thank you so much Marcia!! I'll be forever a paper lover 🥰

[@iralamija]

I started scrapbooking almost 20 years ago (I still remember most of the names of the Scrapbook companies back in the days, I never got any CTMH product they were not my style) as you can imagine I have enough product for a while LOL also I have been part of lots of Design Teams for important scrapbook companies, and I was featured in magazines almost since I started this hobby (in those days some magazines pay $$$ others pay with product), I am lucky enough to still receive product to this day from time to time when I guest design. I think the last time I went to a store to buy a paper pad was about 3-4 years ago, the only thing I still buy is adhesive and sometimes paper to print my digital images (I design my own papers in digital, another reason I do not buy paper collections) I have seen less product for Scrapbook in stores, lots of people are not buying like they used to (economy is another thing) anyway I was blessed to make my hobby into my bussines, but yes I can tell you something is changing in the industry, will see how things change in the next years.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Same for me... I've done a lot of work with Scrapbook manufacturers and companies and have been blessed with so so much product, more than any gal could ever actually use.

[@littleluluscraps]

LOL, I owned a store back when if you wanted a shape or letters you had to use stencils or punches, stickers and solid colored die cuts and Me and Big Ideas were life and still chuckle about those names...Cosmo Cricket, Mrs. Grossmans, Provo Craft, My Mind's Eye, Paper Patch (wish they still made paper, I loved their small basic prints 😂). Some of these companies transitioned into fabric!

[@iralamija]

@@littleluluscraps I remember those days! some other brands back then: Making Memories, Rusty pickle, Melissa Frances, October Afternoon, Creative Cafe, Websters Pages, Basic Grey ...

[@littleluluscraps]

@@iralamija October Afternoon swoon, lol.

[@susanbartone1347]

I make home made cards. Not to sell but to have so if/when I want to remember someone (birthday, death, encouragement) I can send them a real piece of mail. Real mail in one's mailbox is not the trend but can bring so many smiles.

[@dking1362]

It is rare to get much real mail (not junk!) any more; there is something special, I think, about physically holding and being able to keep a tangible expression of love and caring. We card makers need to make sure our grandkids and neighbors and families experience the joy of real mail!

[@CreatedByGwen]

I love getting REAL mail 🌸

[@CreatedByGwen]

Agree - there is something very special about it.

[@shawnebaird1339]

What an excellent informative video! I am a CTMH customer and when I got the email I was saddened by the news. On the good side, my oldest granddaughter (11 years old) just got into scrapbooking and I have been able to send her a lot of supplies to help her on her new journey. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and ideas!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Ohhh yay!!! I'm so happy your granddaughter has taken up this hobby and you can craft together. My daughter does a little bit of it but not nearly as much as I'd like 🤣🤣🤣 I do feel that she will come back to it though in time... I've planted a seed there and it will grow 🌱

[@christinebell8980]

This was a great video. You explained well what I have seen happen in stores. Paper craft sections have disappeared overnight, it seems and I was clueless as to why. I love working with paper so I won't quit, until we can't buy it any more.

[@CreatedByGwen]

So glad you enjoyed this one... I was hoping it would be enlightening for some and I'm with you, here until the end!

[@lindapullan6937]

I'm a cardmaker in the UK and have been crafting for over twenty years. Most of the craft shops have closed in the UK and now the majority of craft supplies are online which is sad. One of the reasons I took up the hobby was it was very sociable hobby. You could visit a local craft shop, look at the papers, cardstock etc before you purchased it and also chat to other crafters and watch live demos or join a class. That's now mainly gone. Buying online isn't the same. A pity.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Hey Linda! 🌸 Thanks for sharing what it is like in the UK, you are right online just isn't the same.

[@raeraesma]

Hi Gwen. I was so upset to hear that CTMH was closing down, and what it would do to the community. I’m glad to hear that many are going to move on. I’ve been scrapping since 2000, so I’m in it for life. I think manufacturers will come and go, but they know that there is still a huge community of scrappers that will continue, just like other crafters. I agree with you about getting rid of layouts that you don’t love, or are taking up too much real estate. For me, honestly it’s about the creating. Thank you for being such a big part of our community. What you do here is important.❤

[@CreatedByGwen]

Awwww Kim, you are just the kindest person ever. I'm so thankful for you!! I'm so glad the gals have rallied too, I was so worried for them but I shouldn't have been surprised, of course they love the craft so much they will find a way to keep creating!!

[@glendathorne7008]

I agree whole heartedly with your comments. I started scrapbooking 20 years ago with my then ,pregnant daughter. Paper brands and tools were very limited so we bought it all ( which we don't use now?) It is now about the fun, the process, the creativity, the enjoyment, the virtual friends, the new friends, the joy it brings me. My style has grown and I love that. New techniques, tips, tools, better quality & versatile papers , KZbin, the on line stores ( that share their talent & projects), kits etc. I'm hooked till the end. Cards, mini albums, layouts, junk journals❤🧡💛💚💙💜🥰 Live on scrappers of all types, & styles!!

[@CreatedByGwen]

I'm hooked till the end too Glenda 🎀 🎀 🎀 Wherever we end up, they will have to pull that ATG out of my hand or bury me with it! xo

[@glendathorne7008]

Too funny but true 😊❤

[@gaylewills1294]

I started scrapbooking in 2006. I have 12 kids, 10 grandkids so lots to scrap. I started with creative memories. Love the strap hinge album.When CM announced shutting down I bought as many albums as I thought I would need for my kids. Then I bought 3 rings for our family albums. I no longer buy CM since I stocked up. My sister died in 2021 and gave me her unused albums before she passed. So I have a big stockpile. I have also bought albums at Goodwill and at an antique co-op. I would get strap hinge paper from HL. But they are getting rid of scrapbooking. I am now just buying at thrift stores. I have a life long supply..61 yrs old. I scrapbook daily. I have no scrapbooking friends. I scrap and watch scrapbookers on yt. I really miss having a crafty friend. I have 7 daughters. None of them want to scrapbook. My daughter in laws have no interest either. I am grateful for creators to keep me company while I scrap.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks for popping by today Gayle and sharing your thoughts, what a shame your daughters won't create with you, it's so sad. You sound like you have much more luck at op shops than I ever do!

[@sonogr41994]

Scrapbooking like any other crafting genre (crocheting, knitting, etc.) is a must to be passed from one generation to the next or it will die. It seems like the last two generations do not have the same interest in hands on/tactile scrapbooking as we did 20-30 years ago, much like they don’t like reading books, magazines or newspapers. Everything is digital, social media etc. However, I think they are missing a big chunk of their history this way. All it takes is a glitch and all that data is GONE!!! Memories in a book can be passed down. I cherish the photo albums in my family and I know my children love to pull out and look at my scrapbooks I made as a teenager even before I really got into the “scrapbooking” industry in the late 1990s. I do enjoy it for the community aspect as well. I do hope the it is a cyclical industry and one the younger generations will see the value of it!!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Totally agree that we need to pass our craft down through the generations, it's up to us!! The impact of digital tech is huge and yes, they are missing out!! Apps and social media come and go, we have already seen that.. even KZbin could maybe not exist one day. 🥺 I hope too that the younger generations will see the value of it even if it is when they are later on in their life. Perhaps they will start families and feel called to document their lives. Let's hope so! xo

[@wandaspencer9523]

I have been a paper crafter / card making since late 80s… I started with a darling lady who had a craft store in a nearby community. She carried paper quilling supplies, calligraphy, inks, and beautiful paper of every kind. Vellum, parchment, rice paper and more. Cards were truly handmade back then and prized if you received one. There was a California company we ordered rubber stamps from and they were intricately detailed, embossing powders and ink. We were hooked! We had home card classes with Stamping up, I was a Creative Memories scrap booking consultant for five years, and maintained my card making in a smaller way. Then returned to card making. However, like everyone else, I have an abundance of everything and with all the changes since the pandemic I have found more people turning to online shopping and video instruction. Home classes are nearly unheard of, but paper crafting will always be around.😊❤ I will share my love for the Lord through cards, scrap booking, and scriptural journals. I do feel sad about this business closing, although I had never really heard about it until recently. So many small businesses were forced to close and independent consultants couldn’t maintain their quarterly minimums. 😔.

[@CreatedByGwen]

That is so so lovely! I love the cards from that time, they were always so beautifully embellished and like you say, truely hand made. We were created to create so I'm so glad you share your ministry this way 💗

[@tracylee4442]

And the therapy! I make cards now. I should use my many materials to go back to scrapbooking and do both. But my girls are 19 and 21 now. They really aren’t here to photograph, and they don’t really share their pics with me! So it could also be a stage of life thing. But cardmaking is my therapy. And it gives other people joy!

[@CreatedByGwen]

I know a lot of creatives in the same season of life as you, kids older now and moved to cards which is awesome. So many of the scrapbook supplies transfer over to cards so it makes sense. I have been known to take screen shots of my daughters socials and use those to scrapbook with 🤣🤣🤣

[@ohMamarazziScrapbookingVicky]

Everything you say makes sense, but I have grown even more addicted to this wonderful soul-stirring hobby since starting in 1997, and can't see myself stopping as long as I have the use of my hands and a functioning brain. I have 112 albums on the go (some completed, most I am working on right now). When I pass, my family can burn my books. Hope they don't, but I won't be around to care! Until then, I will continue feeding my creativity and nourishing my soul. If the industry crumbled, I would still create albums of my family's memories. I don't follow trends... I follow my heart :) xo Vicky

[@CreatedByGwen]

That's so so good - I'm so glad you are as addicted as me lolol More than ever I want to create things from pretty paper. Thank you so much for sharing this perspective Vicky, it's spot on I think! xo

[@barbaracarlson1331]

Our hobby Lobby store has diminished their paper crafting supplies. I hate it…..no more dies available.

[@janiceminer]

I no longer go into that store because of that issue

[@DoloresJRush]

As a one income family, I couldn’t afford to buy all the dies that my heart desired. Then I discovered Kiwi Lane scrapbook company. They make templates which I can trace around and fussy cut out. I also use the templates to trace around when doodling my coloring sheets. ❤

[@CreatedByGwen]

Kiwi Lane has come up before actually - someone else recommended them, I'm going to look into it.

[@CreatedByGwen]

@@DesWorld910 Oh REALLY!!! Well that sucks.

[@SandraE_]

⁠@@CreatedByGwenI love kiwi lane and used to be a consultant with them between my stints with CTMH 😊.

[@pennydouphinett4545]

My scrapbooking took on special meaning after the deaths of two of my adult children. There are no more pictures, no more memories. What I have documented is what there is of their lives. I haven't been able to scrap since they died, but I continue to gather pictures for their siblings. Those are the pages I know will survive after me.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I'm so sorry for your loss Penny. What a beautiful gift you have been able to create for your family 💔

[@pamgalloway]

Wonderful insight here. Thank you for your time in researching the changes we're experiencing in papercrafting. I'd never thought of the impact of stocking up when closeouts are offered but your point is valid there. I wonder if there may be opportunity in contacting local libraries or continuing educational programs to offer papercrafting classes in various themes to kids, particularly in the summer and holiday breaks. It could provide a bit of child care to working parents and nurture the next generation of papercrafters. Or how about offering Christmas in July classes at retirement facilities, give those sweet seniors a jump on making their Christmas cards early? Sharing our joy and creativity (and maybe even some of our abundant supplies) with others is certainly a delightful sustaining part of the world of papercrafting. Again, thank you for addressing these unsettling changes.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Great ideas, thanks for sharing them here 🫶

[@jenniferdennison1532]

Consumerism took over the craft. Look at all the content the creators have. It’s about getting people to buy the next release. You are right it was never sustainable. Scrapbooking has been around for a few hundred years at least. It will never go away. Hopefully we can be smart enough to scale down the consumerism and get back to more community, passion, art, THERAPY 😂and a love of sharing. Not only that but we have plenty of natural and available product around us. Now that would be an interesting video

[@CreatedByGwen]

Oh gosh, I love everything about this comment... Community, Passion, art and therapy. Nothing to do with consumerism!! Yes please to that!! xo

[@annehammersley7311]

Thank Gwen you for the comments about our crafting world. You give us hope to keep on doing what we love even though how we do it and what we use is changing 💕

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thank you Anne, that was my goal with this video. There is always hope while there are passionate creatives willing to share their joy with others. 💗

[@susanrossman529]

The world continues to change and the crafts my mother & I did when I was young (40 yrs ago) are different than what mothers and daughters do now or I do now. It is a creative outlet and even though I would love to go to a craft store, I mostly buy online due to the amount of time available. Family needs, work and church take up most of my time. Paper crafting will see the same evolution that sewing has taken on in the last 50 years. It will continue to change and we, as crafters are driving it, even though we don't seem like we are. It's the best self love and love for others therapy.

[@CreatedByGwen]

This is true, we will continue to evolve and change up how we create. We were created to create so we will always find a way! xo

[@beckywashington6988]

I have been having fun adding to my already large collection since retirement. I'm sad to be losing Heartfelt Creations just when I've got the budget to devote to crafting. I never need to buy another thing but I try to buy especially when I see very clever designs, like the pop-up from Lawn Fawn. That said, dies and stamps have become much more expensive in the last few years. I still love my steel rule dies and wish more of them were being designed. Love cutting up cracker boxes! I also have gotten into moulds and I love the way Stamperia collections have stamps, paper, moulds, ephemera and more. That's a crafting evolution I can get excited about.

[@CreatedByGwen]

So glad you found what excites you Becky! I actually haven't looked at the Stamperia stuff, so I will have to check it out. A few ladies have said that Heartfelt Creations is still 'open' in some capacity so it could be worth checking that too, I certainly will be.

[@wendyurban7722]

Thanks so much for this video Gwen. I have been scrapbooking for 20 years, firstly with Creative Memories in NZ, who went under, then with CTMH - I just loved their products. When the news they were closing came out, I felt sick/sad, but I’ve been stunned by how positive many of the You/Tubers I follow have been, and that positivity has put the smile back on my face. I will pivot and explore new products, branch out into mini albums, junk journals, mixed media etc and keep up the community of lovely ladies I scrap with both in person and on line. ❤️

[@CreatedByGwen]

Oh wow Wendy! It was a huge shock but yes, the gals have rallied they have put smiles on their faces and already said they are going to press on. Sure their channels will change, but that's ok, they are still making 🥰 We will all have to pivot but I know we can come back from this stronger than ever. xo

[@sharondalynnewton7562]

So many resale and destashing groups on fb it’s crazy. What I don’t understand is the way they price things. It’s as if you’re paying what they paid or more. WOW!. With so many choices it’s truly overwhelming.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Ohhh really?? I haven't seen any but you know what, I haven't really been looking. I do find it interesting that people kind of expect to get back what they paid for it. No doubt that impacts too on stores. More evidence that too many people made too many purchases and now have more supplies than they would ever need.

[@luv_paper_ribbon]

Great video Gwen! I’m so glad you made and I will be sharing. We papercrafters need to keep this going so that our community stays alive.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Awwww thank you!!! This comment has made my day 💗 Thanks so much for sharing it!

[@jeannainnc8390]

I started scrapbooking 27 years ago when I wanted a craft to do as a new SAHM. I stopped bc life got in the way. What I discovered for myself is that if I want my boys to keep their scrapbooks forever then I need to make them for them. After we moved several times the 12x12 books I put together did not hold up. Many of the pictures fell off the page. Lots $$. So, I started junk journaling, then I did my own hybrid junk journal-scrapbook that actually fits on any normal bookshelf. I culled the pictures to be the best of the best. I did even more journaling and added in photos from my husband's and my childhood. Each journal has a theme vs. Page layouts. It has been a game changer. The boys 27 and 15 will actually look at the albums now.

[@CreatedByGwen]

This is a good point, my daughter is making an album for her Year 12 memories and the FIRST thing she said was that she didn't was a big 12 x 12 inch album, she went with 8 x 8, so much more manageable.

[@LynBell]

Thanks for your thoughts. I'm relatively new to paper craft really when I see others with 20 -30 yeas behind them! It kind of started when my husband and I downsized to a 55 and over lifestyle village. I'd always liked creating and a lady in our Lifestyle Village (LSV) suggested it would be good to have a craft group. Until then I'd dabbled in a bit of painting and drawing...got married and then tried other crafting. Before moving I joined a craft group and did a bit of painting...no room for my pictures! On our move to the LSV I was encouraged to start a group. I started card making cards, something I'd never really done. Now I'm hooked and got loads of dies, embossing folders, papers...the more I see the more I want. I've been doing it now for 5 years now and am addicted and I'm getting overloaded with goodies!!!! Added to that in NZ we don't get the bits and pieces that we see on KZbin so when I see something special online I just have to have it when I DO see it! Oh dear...! HELP!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Hey Lyn... So glad you're enjoying the card making, it sure is fun! There are so so many goodies to find and use, you have opened pandoras box 🤣

[@tinasteinborner7786]

I really think there are still plenty of choices. Destashing is a result of all of us changing how we scrap. Things that appealed a few years ago no longer appeal. There is still plenty of options for us. I believe people still scrapbook and craft. Many people are so busy now. While people are pushing companies like temp and alli express I believe we will kill our own industry... there are some great Australian companies we need to support like Denise Boddey Desgins, Bee Arty, Uniquely Creative, cocoa vanilla NatalieMay, Scrapbook fantasies and paper roseto name paper supplies. If we choose to continue to support over seas and cheaply made we will lose our choices. It's time to choose what our future supplies look like. Kaisercraft as did kasazz has stopped producing scrapbooking supplies and no one really stood up and said anything... which tells me that overseas companies mean more to Australians.. let's look at supporting the amazing companies around! Let's look at ways we can improve what we have!

[@CreatedByGwen]

There are still a lot of options available to paper crafters and many FAB Aussie stores to shop from and support. Appreciate you popping by today!

[@pthompson42]

I so agree with you about the overseas stores like Temu. Much of their craft product are copies of other companies’ designs too. I also agree that we should support our own Australian brands which provide great quality products. I am lucky to I’ve in South Australia where we have Paper Rose, Uniquely Creative and Natalie May, whose shop is about 10 mins away. Nat really works on the community side of things too.

[@CreatedByGwen]

You are in the Aussie HOT SPOT for Paper Craft, so lucky!!!

[@tinasteinborner7786]

@pthompson42 Densise Boddey designs isn't to far away from You either

[@pthompson42]

@@tinasteinborner7786 ooh, I’ll have to look them up 😊

[@leeanneburchell7053]

It’s so sad that we have lost our stores, I remember going to the back of the store and joining in with my scrapbooking , we can however buy our goodies on line and invite everyone to our homes for a fun afternoon of scrapping and a cuppa 🤗

[@CreatedByGwen]

Yes to this!!! Invite your friends and craft together, what a wonderful idea. 🌸

[@arlenewaddell]

Gwen I appreciated your presentation on the paper crafters organization summit so I checked out your KZbin channel. In this video you have captured my feelings since hearing about CTMH and how the industry has changed. My friend and I recently restarted in-class card classes as they ended with the pandemic and quite frankly a quarter of the people are coming but those that are have all exclaimed how they have missed the visiting and community spirit, the rest of the people just want kits to make at home. I’m hoping in time we will have more coming to class! Thanks for sharing your research and positive thoughts! Arlene from Lacombe, Alberta Canada

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks so much for popping by Arlene!! I'm so glad you enjoyed the summit and took the time to find my channel 🌸 Welcome!! xo Thanks for adding your perspective here as well, it does seem to be consistent with what I said (and many others here) - We are all still SUPER happy to be a part of this community and will forever be paper lovers.... let's just hope that we can share our love of this craft with others and it will in time grow again. xo

[@debbiebghggnameouthill3195]

I miss being able to go into a brick and mortar but am very thankful for the many online stores still available for the card making and scrapbooking that I still do

[@CreatedByGwen]

Online has it's advantages... I like that I can shop Australia wide now, I don't just have the option of what's local to me.

[@thestitchmenagerie]

I feel like this is also happening in paper/decorative planning. The 3 big box stores in my city have greatly decreased their in store stock on planners and stickers and accessories.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Interesting!! I could never get into planning BUT I know so many gals who did... those planner gals were buying up all the things 🎀

[@CarrieRay]

Agree! Michaels didn’t have any Happy Planners or accessories this year-I used to get lots of that from them in the past.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Wow, ok, so even that has been reduced... so interesting!

[@debbiesykes5491]

I have been crafting / scrapbooking for many years yes I went to crops and expo's over the years and my stores near me went out of business I was so sad to see this but now I just have a time ordering online cause I like to see and touch what I want to order so sometimes I just improvise on my pages.... I still love the craft. Thank you for sharing.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts with us Debbie.

[@tinas_craft_creations]

I'm not a scrapbooker but a papercrafter and I would say that a lot of what you're saying is true, I only started crafting in 2016, but I've definitely seen a decline in my local big stores like Hobby Lobby and Jo-Ann's and Michaels here in the US where they are significantly decreasing their paper crafting selections. But thankfully I live in an area that does still have a wonderful scrapbook store and I love to go there and support them every couple of months and make purchases of new collections that have come out, etc. I have definitely made some amazing friends in the paper crafting community and I love watching and sharing videos and IG posts for inspiration. Hopefully we can continue to come together and keep our creative hobbies going ❤️❤️

[@CreatedByGwen]

Interesting perspective coming from someone relatively 'new' to the hobby. I'll be sure to check out your channel too! 🎀

[@ChelleBeeby]

💜💜💜tfs💜💜💜 CTMH closing wasn't just a financial decision, but yes... and scrapbooking has been around in one way or another for over a hundred years.... I just think over time we keep adapting.

[@CreatedByGwen]

That is very true, not just a financial decision and one I've no doubt took a long time to make. I'm going to quote you next time someone tells me scrapbooking is dead, I'm going to say, it's been around for 100 years, its not going anywhere 💗 xo

[@Dodgeowner]

I have cleaned out my scrapbooks supplies twice in 5 years. Major clean outs. Partially my fault, as I was impulse buying. I sold and gave away both times. I use my paper for bookbinding and making custom books with photos for relatives. (I am a horrible card maker. ) Anyway, each time I cleaned out I felt sick for buying so much and relieved it was gone. So MUCH stuff. My new rule for 2024: DO NOT BUY any more supplies, only glue. Use what I have to make things. I hope I can stick to my own rules.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I always feel relieved when I do a clean out, even when there is news of brands closing. I keep a modest stash and still won't run out in my life time I'm sure.

[@deannahogue3713]

Hi Gwen, thank you for making this video. I have been scrapbooking and card making since I was in high school… YEARS ago. I don’t have any paper crafters near me anymore, especially after the scrapbooking stores in My area closed, and I miss that community. It’s try interesting to see how it’s all changed over the years… I’ll still going to keep on doing my craft because it makes me happy. ❤

[@CreatedByGwen]

You are so welcome! I'm so glad you are keeping it going for yourself and I hope you feel connected to THIS community here... I know it's online but no crafter should feel alone xo

[@ThePaperAddict]

As a scrapbook online store I’m seeing my sales plummet and have some big choices to make this year. And with collections having sooo many pieces - what do I buy to offer as much just sits in stock. Also, I’ve noticed collections are all just starting to look like repeats over the years. Who wants to buy something new that looks like what they already have

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thank you so so much for sharing your thoughts on this especially from the perspective of a business owner. Agree, the huge collections are just too much for everyone, it's not sustainable and I really hope @american crafts hears this and sees this!! I think you will find that people do understand that you can't get everything in, it's all too much and that choices need to made. Thanks for popping by today and sharing your thoughts.

[@nesaclark1059]

I have 10 moving boxes full of scrapbook supplies. After my husband's father passed on Christmas Eve, I found to my surprise that neither of my middle aged children nor my adult grandchildren wanted pictures that were left. Now my home is packed with the past and I don't know what to do! My family isn't interested in the past ten years of Genealogy I have compiled either. No one to leave this to. I can't bear to trade it!

[@CreatedByGwen]

I'm so sorry to hear that and unfortunately it's not the first time 🥺 I've heard something like this. Families prefer things stored digitally these days. Perhaps you can scan them??

[@RonaBerryMorin]

Discovered scrapbooking in the 90s. Moved onto to journaling with stickers, tape and coloring pens.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Those gel pens are so fun right!!

[@muskadobbit]

There used to be no big box stores. They came in and overwhelmed the little guys. Then they started crying when online sales took over from the big boxes who didn’t have good customer service anyway and never care about community. And once people sewed their own clothes much more than now. Whole sections of patterns, notions, etc. other crafts have become popular then faded; macrame, tole painting, etc. There will always be artists and makers, and it matters less about an individual industry than people’s creativity.

[@CreatedByGwen]

We will always have creative people thank goodness!!!

[@RockyRoadCreationsbyDiana]

Junk journals are the new trend. Also, who has space to store those huge 12X12 scrapbooks. This younger generation does not want all that clutter. Well, not all of the younger generations there are exceptions. I remember scrapbook stores on every corner. It truly was a magical, golden time.

[@CreatedByGwen]

It was a golden age... ahhh the memories! Junk Journals are fun, I can see why people love them.

[@scrappycavie5151]

Thank you for this video. I started out scrapbooking for memory keeping and I'm fortunate because my children love the little albums that I ended up creating for them. I quickly realized that there was no way to store 3-dimensional scrapbooking pages, so I transitioned to Journal making. I love creating books and still incorporate pictures in most of them, but I don't create with too much dimension anymore. I fully expect my children to get rid of some of the journals, but I do think they will keep the ones that tell a story about their life and their loved ones.

[@CreatedByGwen]

You are so welcome, I'm glad you enjoyed it. A few of the gals have mentioned journal making and I love that! I'm sure they will choose their favourites and keep those.

[@cloverrabbit5622]

I started scrapbooking about 24 years ago. I only scrapbook for my sisters children now, hardly for myself. When COVID started I got into art journaling, and I ❤ it so much ! So I still love being creative but just in a different way. I also continue to card make when the occasions come up . Thanks so much...great topic. 😊

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks for sharing!! So glad you found another way to be creative.

[@sharonsienaski6919]

Great points! I don’t see the younger generation taking up paper crafting. They don’t print their photos. They don’t keep a lot of “ stuff. “ They hate clutter and craft supplies can become clutter. Too much product churned out monthly. Prices for dies have skyrocketed. A lot of products look all the same. Retired people have the time to papercraft but have huge stashes of supplies already and limited income.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Yep... great summary. I agree with all of this.

[@rosannagajdanelson999]

This is thoughtful, positive video. I do not do scrapbooking since I finished my genealogy album, but I do make journals and cards - papercraft! You are right bout it changing. I love the process, the tactile feel of the paper, the cutting, designing and gifting. There will always be people who enjoy this hobby. I also wanted say that I have turned to making my own papers through paper making, paper dying and am now dabbling into AI for pattern papers. It is a whole big world of papercraft out there!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Oh wow Rosanna!!! This is amazing, making your own paper... love that!! You are right, for me it's about that tactile feel and I love all kinds of paper craft projects. 💗

[@malasukhdeo8561]

This is a really good video which addresses several good points. Unfortunately, a bit like fashion, companies have been releasing new collections more frequently than before which makers struggle to keep up with and it overwhelms our craftrooms. I love the industry and have done for decades but have always questioned why more isn’t done to protect from copies which are saturating the market as well. I don’t buy copies to support the industry but have now slowed down on buying to allow time to use what I have and have diversified from cardmaking to other papercrafts. I miss the connection with likeminded people and am grateful for online but it’s not the same.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks for popping by today and sharing your perspecitve. I agree, I too am so thankful for the online community and those sharing their projects on line. xo

[@jenniferdennison1532]

Thank you for saying what needed to be said and thank you for they way you have your channel and the work you put into this particular video.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I appreciate that, thanks so much for popping by today! 🎀

[@SeniorSusieStamps]

Very nice commentary and I think Spot On! It's up to all of us to keep the craft alive!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Yasss!!! 🔥🔥🔥 We will keep it burning bright!

[@mareekerwin]

It is sad to see more Papercraft companies close.😢You have so many interesting points. I have a small group of crafters who come to my home once a month. A couple of ladies have now asked me if we could meet a bit more regularly which I am very happy to do. There are no local craft shops were I live and no where to join in crops etc. Having a small local group of friends is a good way to connect and enjoy our hobby.

[@CreatedByGwen]

What a kind thing to do to host creatives like that. 💗💗💗

[@karenfrederick4795]

Found you and your video because of the topic. I have a friend who has been with CTMH for over 25 years and has both shock and sadness, as one would expect. I love paper but have never been a scrapbooker. I have been a card maker for several years, mainly Stampin' Up, but my latest love is 3D papercrafting with an online company/community named Dreaming Tree. All designs they sell do require a cutting machine vs stamping. The real appeal of their designs is how versatile they are, in that you can change the paper colors to reflect seasons, occasions, etc. I'm not surprised that your graphs seem to show a real surge in paper crafting online and You Tube searches, because that's where I go for inspiration and education. Thanks for this informative video with both information and an honest opinion on the state of the industry.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks for popping by today Karen, I'm glad you found me. I'll check out Dreaming Tree for sure, always fun to see new things. I appreciate you sharing your thoughts here.

[@sarahlamott1970]

So spot on! I am one of those crafters you described, have always attended crops led by a friend and met so many wonderful friends there. Going on 20 years myself and still love my pastime. CTMH closing is very sad and I hope like CM that somehow they are rescued or their line is picked up. Thanks for this thoughtful and informative message❤️

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thank you so much for popping by today Sarah and sharing your thoughts 🥰

[@lesliestrout5121]

Much to be said about how the younger generation is preserving (or not) their memories. Few of them even print pictures, much less scrapbook them. I love to preserve events in albums, but like you, wonder what my kids will do with all the albums when I'm gone. Hoping that they will at least take some time to remember the family joys I've recorded before they find the waste bin!

[@CreatedByGwen]

It's a tricky one isn't it! I have photographed my pages so in the very least if they don't keep them they may keep the photos of them? We can only do what we can do and I try to focus on the joy of creating and not worry too much about the future of my projects. It's hard though, I understand.

[@papertherapywithamy4153]

This is an encouraging message Gwen! I’m a KZbinr and CTMH maker, and it’s kinda the end of an era, but I’m also a little excited about what doors it might open for me!

[@CreatedByGwen]

So glad my message found you and that you are encouraged and excited about the new opportunities coming your way 🎀 We are all cheering you gals on!

[@jjellii1228]

I still scrapbook but now instead of doing my trip scrapbooks, that no one will want, I now scrapbook pictures of the grandkids. They each have their own book or two and it’s the first thing they do when they arrive at the house, so I know those scrapbooks will be wanted and preserved. I also split my time with making cards and various treat containers to give out as RAK’s

[@CreatedByGwen]

That is so so lovely !

[@Barbraotten]

In America we have tons of crafting retreats. I run 12 four to five day retreats a year and I’m full most of the time. We also get together at a large expo once a year. You are correct that community is important.

[@CreatedByGwen]

That sounds amazing Barbara!!! 🌸

[@cynthiaosgood3804]

Every industry is suffering the same type of situations. Everyone does every meeting by zoom, in every industry, I sit in an office,next to my coworkers office, and we do meetings on Zoom.I am a cross stitches and crocheted and all my supplies come from on line sellers. Its terrible!

[@CreatedByGwen]

Really, you zoom from one office to another?? 🤪

[@debbiebishop1912]

Your right the community is not dead. It's just changed. We need to help keep it alive and talk it up.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Agree totally Debbie 🔥🔥🔥 We need to keep that fire going. xo

[@Lindzeeann2uuu]

I started scrapbooking way back when Creating Keepsakes magazine began publishing (1990s??). I made about three scrapbooks when the kids were little, but as they got older, my interest waned. I still enjoyed paper crafting, so I tried to get into card making, but quickly realized I never send cards. When I have a birthday party to go to, I make a dash into the Walgreens and find the first card that’s appropriate and sign it in the car before go into the party. So cards went by the wayside. For 2-3 years, I’ve been doing planners, adapting some of my paper supplies for planner pages. It’s hard to keep up with weekly spreads, but I still enjoy it. I did a HUGE destash of my paper supplies last summer. Hundreds and hundreds of dollars of stamps and dies alone.

[@deannahogue3713]

I loved CK, the magazine was great to get every month! I was involved with the message board for years and I met some amazing people, and the fun RAK’s we used to do… I miss that community.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I loved CK too!! That was a huge loss to the community too.

[@sophiemsmply4you572]

COVID did a lot of damage. I don't think the industry is dying, but COVID brought a lot of problems with physical stores. We all started buying online and have continued. Crafters are now also providing us with printables which are fabulous. BUT I miss the physical store. I loved going to the store to feel the paper, see the paper, see the products etc. We have to move with the changes but I do wish the stores would come back. To do that though, they need to be supported.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Agree, it did impact so so many things. I wonder how possible it is for local stores to come back, with the cost of running a physical store over an online one. It's sad that's for sure.

[@vahultman860]

Having been scrapbooking with my Grandmother from age 4 to now (eek! 60.) I will still keep scrapbooking, because I have done this even when a large amount of this product/industry did not exist. Part of the process was to figure things out. My original scrapbooks were/are the old, black paged, cord hinged books. To this day, these are still my favorite. I think those that move on to other options do so for their own needs. Many will still need to just keep the memories archived and the process to motivate our souls. The large industry may sadly die out, but the need to archive, create and remember will always exist on some level.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Ohhh this is so so lovely!! I love that you have been crafting for so long and what a beautiful gift your grandmother gave you 🥰

[@jennymay3665]

A well thought out and encouraging presentation. 🥰

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thank you so much!

[@Taitcreates639]

Wow, This is all so true, thank you for opening my eyes. So sad to hear about CTMH

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks so much for popping by today Bonnie 🌷

[@storybookpress7686]

I've seen a lot of evolving over the years. I live in a lower middle-income area where there has never been an interest in paper crafts. I've made so many notebooks and journals and gifted them until I saturated the area. I have no one left to gift to. I think about selling from time to time just to clear out my journals and supplies, but I don't really want a business. It surprises me that none of my neighbors, friends, and even family are interested in journaling. I know most people are in survivor mode and simply don't have the time to create because they spend their time working. I think interest in crafts, in general, has slowed down. Like you said, crafts are the first thing to go. It's not a necessity to physical survival, but it is to my mental/emotional survival. I'll keep making for my needs. Thank you for keeping hope alive.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts here lovely. Unfortunately crafts can be one of the first things to go when times get tough, but money wise and time wise. But, it makes sense.

[@anncaldwell3999]

We do have a small scrapbooking community in the UK, and I'm lucky to live in the Midlands with close travel links to large towns and cities. This means the crop i go to monthly in real life is still well attended by both card makers and scrapbookers. And you are so right, we encourage each other in our makes. After scrapbooking for over 20 years, i have had to travel further afield, but at these crops are still the crafters i met locally way back when!

[@CreatedByGwen]

That is so so good Ann, you are blessed!

[@quiquidee]

As a CTMH maker I found this video very informative. It's been a rough week. But we will keep on crafting :).

[@CreatedByGwen]

Thank you!!! Please know that we are all cheering you on and look forward to seeing the new and exciting things you create 🎀

[@rebeccaavoca9143]

I live in a small coastal suburb, there's no crafting shop nearby. I have to order most of the stuff online. Papercrafting, scrapbooking, mixed-media are some of the activities that I enjoy when I have time to do my hobby. I work full time 6 days / week, so my family & paying the bills come first rather than crafting. With everything keeps going up, I don't think so nowdays I will keep on buying every time one brand releases some new products. Sadly, my wallet can't keep up ...

[@CreatedByGwen]

Yep, there is a lot to buy so you have to make choices, you can't get in everything. It's hard to fit craft into a busy life BUT it's so worth it for the joy it can bring.

[@karengarces7254]

Well done video! Both Heartfelt Creations & CTMH owners were aging with health issues. I’m sure there were other reasons. Honestly, for both of those companies it’s a bummer they didn’t sell to someone who could take over with the same passion & business motto. Like someone from CTMH design team or HFC demonstrators. I LOVE both of their products & customer service. I do think to own a physical store is too costly & not profitable. But since COVID, both companies had adjusted & done well with KZbin & internet marketing. Honestly, I have crafted & spent more now because of the inspiring KZbin videos. The in-person crops seem to be profitable. I know of a store that closed but monthly has a pop up shop with 3 day crops & is constantly sold out. The physical store closed because it wasn’t profitable. She provides a great experience & has adapted beautifully to the culture change.

[@CreatedByGwen]

I totally agree that there were a lot of factors affecting the closures, yes, health being one of them. Thank you for sharing your perspective on this, there have been a few people mention that their circles of scrapbookers in particular are thriving... and I'm so glad to hear that. I was talking pretty broadly in this video and my thoughts have been confirmed by many of the comments here. It's so nice to hear this perspective, I'm glad you shared it here! It is such a shame that they companies could not live on through their demonstrators or otherwise.

[@bethglenmaddie]

CTMH sold to SU and unfortunately I am willing to bet SU will not keep the CTMH products going. They will phase them out entirely, mark my word.

[@ginacunningham5352]

The value of community is something that's been overlooked in general in this world, so I agree those who find and cultivate a community are benefitting greatly.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Agree... this is not just a paper craft thing.

[@leithmcdougall4620]

Hi Gwen, I started scrapbooking 20 years ago with my honeymoon album. It just so happens that I am at a retreat this weekend with fellow scrapbookers. The past owners of our local store have started an online business which includes organising retreats. Our group also plans our own retreat once a year and gets together once a month to crop. They are all women I met through attending crops for the last 20 years. It is so very sad to hear of more businesses closing but great to know that people will reinvent themselves and keep going. I too am a south east Queenslander. Maybe one day we will meet at a crop.

[@CreatedByGwen]

Oh hey Leith!! That is so wonderful, I didn't realise you were a fellow sun-loving Queenslander ☀️ I love that you gals all still get to together loads, that is so great! Thanks for popping by the channel today and sharing your experiences and proving the 🔥 is still alive and well in our industry despite these recent announcements. xo

[@mjb9176]

My 99 year old mom passed last year. We used her photo albums to create our photo board. We were comforted as we looked through the albums she had. Your kids will appreciate your albums very soon. Put them out during the holidays as a tradition. They think Facebook replaces an album but it never evokes the feelings that personalized albums do. ❤

[@CreatedByGwen]

So true and what a good idea, I need to just pull them out and put them on a coffee table.

[@snowyyzoe]

This is a really interesting video from the perspective of a crafter who might be considered part of the "new generation" (I'm still studying at college). It's easy to forget there's a world of paper crafts I never really got to see--most of the smaller craft stores near me shut down before I was in high school. Over the summer my mom was telling me about a paper store she went to for her wedding invitations...and when we looked it up it had closed down years ago. I sadly don't really have a place to go for supplies or community--my best choice is to order online or go to big-box stores. That being said, there's still somewhat a community for paper crafts among people my age--mainly in the form of clubs on campus. My friends and I have gotten into the habit of junk journal/scrapbooking when we're not in class or at work :)

[@CreatedByGwen]

This is one of the most encouraging comments I've seen on this video, thank you so so much for sharing it. It is sad that your choices are limited and stores have closed, but I'm so happy that there is a community for you and that you and your friends get together to create!!! That's so so good!