Yes, it's out with the old and in with the new... colours that is.
But not just yet; the big changeover happens with the new Idea Book & Catalogue in October.
Here's a link to the new colours and a link to the retiring colours here. I think the new collections look gorgeous – and am very excited about the changes as it will breathe new life into our crafting projects. But I can understand if you’re apprehensive, so have compiled the following to answer some of the questions you may have. If there’s anything else you need to know, please do get in touch and I’ll do my best to answer your questions or find out more information for you.
Why are the colours changing?
This will most likely be your first question, which is understandable. And it’s probably frustrating for you if you’ve been carefully collecting the 48 colours.
The main reason the colours are changing is to keep the colour palette up-to-date. Certain shades go in and out of fashion and, if Stampin’ Up! didn’t change its colours to provide the trendiest shades, it wouldn’t be providing the best service possible.
Another important reason is, of course, a business one. Some colours simply aren’t selling as well as others. In addition, research has revealed that many people just aren't using some of the colours, even if they have them, for example if they have bought a family pack of cardstock or markers.
Why are the colour collections smaller?
You’ll notice that the four collections now only feature 10 colours each. Stampin’ Up! is aware that the existing 48 colours in families of 12 can be overwhelming to new stampers and new demonstrators. With smaller colour collections, the range won't be so overwhelming and collecting a full set will be cheaper. There’s another reason, too, so read on...
Will I have enough colours to be creative?
There may only be 40 colours in the new range – including 10 neutrals – but there are more to come! You may already know that in America and Canada there are six new “In Colours” introduced each year, for one year only, so that crafters can be bang on trend. The system is changing slightly but it means that we in the UK will now be part of it – something we demonstrators are very excited about.
Under the new In Colour programme, there will be five new colours introduced each year to freshen up the colour offering. These will have a lifespan of two years, instead of one. So, this October, we will have the 40 main colours in the four collections, plus five In Colours. A further five will be added in October 2011, bringing the total to 50 colours to play with. So, 45 colours from October 2010 and 50 colours from 2011 onwards.
Will everything in the retiring colours be discontinued?
Most probably yes. But I don’t know for sure yet. Ink pads and cardstock will definitely be going. And I would expect to see brads, ribbons etc on the list too. We will know for sure on 1st September when the list of retiring stamps and accessories is published.
What do I do with all my retired colours?
You keep them and use them of course! Unless you are demonstrator, there is nothing to stop you have a whale of a crafty time with any retired products, be it stamps, ribbon or cardstock. Even demonstrators can use their old colours for their personal crafting projects, just not demonstrate with them from 1st October.
I love some of the retiring colours... now what?
If you’re hooked on some of the retiring colours, please don’t despair. The reason this news is being revealed now – almost six months before it comes into effect – is so that you have plenty of time to stock up on ink, ribbon or cardstock in any of the retiring colours if you wish.
I love the colour families as they are, I don’t want them to change
Change is necessary for all businesses and Stampin’ Up! is no exception. I’m confident you’ll come to love the new colour collections – especially once you start seeing them used in projects. And just think: we’ll be getting new ribbons, brads, Designer Series Papers... this October’s new Idea Book & Catalogue is going to be very exciting! We all want access to more of the products which are available from Stampin’ Up! in America and the new colour collections will be the same across all SU markets, so that’s a step in the right direction.
Please let me know if you have any more questions!
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