Question: Just recently, Encyclopedia Britannica announced it will no longer publish books, but go digital. Do you think art and craft books are headed in the same direction?
Answer: Radio was supposed to die when television was introduced and yet we still have plenty of radio stations broadcasting. Radio adapted, found niches, but like most publishing/broadcasting companies has to struggle to continue to grow and bring in profits. We have seen many crafting magazines disappear off the newsstands over the last few years again; I’d make a bet that advertising revenue just didn’t make the magazines profitable. All that said, I think that those who crave more knowledge about art and craft are very tactile people who probably enjoy holding a book while they read and learn. I think the publishers will be like the radio folks–adapt, find their niches, and continue to publish books. Those who live green, like taking books on the go, and enjoy not having to give up craft supply space will enjoy digitally available titles. My only fear with digital is that those who don’t want to invest (pay for books) will use the digital format to pirate said books.
Check out some digital books on FaveCrafts.com!
- Always wanted to try your hand at knitting? Then check out How To Knit: Beginner Knitting Help, which includes 7 free patterns.
- Glitter here, glitter there! Create 14 Sparkling Craft Projects with Krylon Glitter Blast.
- Jewelry for You has over 20 great beading projects that are spot on fashion trends.
Or maybe you’d like a traditional book?
What do you think? Please share your insight and opinions and leave a comment!
- Ask Maria:Candy Crafts = Bugs? - April 15, 2012
- Ask Maria:Bye-Bye Printed Books, Hello Digital? - April 1, 2012
- Ask MariaRuffled Scarf Crazy - March 14, 2012
