Jane Toft, Editor of the newly-launched Mollie Makes magazine, gives us 60 seconds of her time to talk favourite first mags and smashing subscription records.
First job?
Assistant art editor Amstrad Action magazine - 1986. Future Publishing’s first magazine.
How did you become an Editor?
I was co-editor and freelance launch Art Director of Mollie Makes, May 2011. During the launch period of Mollie Makes I was very involved in the look and feel of the magazine and I was passionate not only about the typography, layout and art direction, but also the content. After my involvement in the launch, I applied for the vacant position of Editor and 4 months in, here I am.
Favourite mag growing up?
I’m showing my age here, but it has to be Jackie – I loved the fashion illustrations and used to copy them every week and design my own versions of 70s fashion.
What advice would you give to aspiring Editors?
You are only as good as the team you work with. Employ the best people, who share your passion to make the best magazine. Don’t expect to work 9-5.
Mollie Makes broke Future’s record for new subscriptions and had over 3,000 subscribers before the second issue even hit the newsstand
Most innovative thing you and the team have come up with?
We decided to take our lead from design blogs and websites who curate the best content around rather than originate it themselves. In an increasingly populated online world, the need for an edited magazine with a taste level the readers trust is really valued. We give a url for each product or company mentioned so readers can follow up online or add it to their RSS feed. In the digital version they can click straight through of course.
Best example of reader loyalty/involvement?
Subs figures! Mollie Makes broke Future’s record for new subscriptions and had over 3,000 subscribers before the second issue even hit the newsstand!
Reasons readers are so engaged with your title?
Mollie Makes has tapped into the emerging ‘tribe’ who blog, create and share their passion for making and buying handmade, upcycling, and thrifting. We package it all together into one beautifully produced print magazine to collect and keep for inspiration. The internet is fleeting and transient whereas a print magazine can be savoured at leisure, any time, anywhere.
