Then & Now- Products

The Early Years
The industry started out as a model and hobby industry, with manufacturing exhibiting model trains, car kits, planes, and a few innovative new craft products. Buyers were independent retailers, as well as scouting and school customers who purchased crafts such as leather, beads, and art supplies.

Product Highlights Throughout History
Products featured in the CNA 50th Anniversary Publication, 1996

Product Nostalgia, 25 Years of new Products, from Profitable Craft Merchandising, 1986

Innovative Products Today
The Craft & Hobby Association (CHA) put the spotlight on original product design and creative communication tactics as part of the Innovations Showcase and Golden Press Kit award competitions held during the January 28-31, 2007 CHA Winter Convention & Trade Show.
http://www.craftandhobby.org/cgi-bin/
pressrelease.cgi?func=ShowRelease&releaseid=196

Terri O., the Craft & Hobby Association’s National Spokesperson, featured new and exciting craft products in the National Craft Month TV segments. For more information on the products she showed, visit
http://www.craftandhobby.org/cgi-bin/
pressrelease.cgi?func=ShowRelease&releaseid=199

Creativity and Innovation Continue to Grow the Industry
From the days of models, needlecrafts, jewelry supplies and art materials to decougage, macramé, rubber stamps, home decorating products, scrapbooking and an exciting assortment of other creative crafts, the industry as grown to include 110 product categories in the 2007 Winter Trade Show Directory.