By Andrea Lillo
PLEASANTVILLE, N.Y.--Certified International added two popular designers to its list of more than 20 at the recent tabletop market, highlighting new lines from April Cornell and Jim Shore.
Cornell, known for her bright floral patterns in textiles, debuted three styles at Certified, all of which will match new textiles patterns launched by Now Designs. "She's building her brand into a lifestyle brand," said Linda O�Donnell, product development manager. "She has a high recognition because of her retail stores and her textiles."
The first pattern, Field Flowers, is available in two to four assorted colors, with solid-color embossed dinnerware and serveware, and hand-painted dinnerware, serveware and accent pieces. "April's look is all about the mix and matching," O�Donnell said.
The Josephine group reflects the "very feminine look" for which Cornell is known and includes solid embossed serveware, dinnerware and accent pieces; decal dinnerware; and hand-painted accessories and serveware, in two to four colors.
Ajmeer is a more sophisticated floral in black and coral colors that will have hand-painted dinnerware, serveware and accessory items. All three April Cornell patterns will be available in February, and will retail between $7.99 and $89.99.
Jim Shore, an American folk artist who is one of the "top licensors in the country," also has new collections with Certified, bowing two Christmas groups and an everyday one, which will be available in February. "He brings a fresh approach to country folk art," O'Donnell said. "He's known for his whimsical, quality touches." The Snowman collection is a line of 3-D items, along with decal dinnerware and serveware. Pieces include a cookie jar, salt and pepper shakers, candle centerpieces, candy dishes and more, and prices range from $9.99 to $99.99. The Santa group focuses on the guy in red, also with 3-D items, including a sleigh centerpiece, reindeer candleholders and covered mugs, along with dinnerware and serveware. "The 3-D pieces are very important," O�Donnell added.
Barnyards is Shore's pattern for everyday, and includes dinner plates and accessories with country scenes and animal designs, along with 3-D items of roosters, sheep, cows and pigs.
