Write Your First Newsletter Of The Year: Top Tips
Write your first newsletter of the year with strong and engaging content, because this is a fantastic way to reconnect with your audience and set the tone for the year ahead.
If you are a knitting or crochet designer who creates and sells digital patterns or products, then this blog post will be perfect for you.
Sometimes it’s difficult to think of what to write in your first newsletter, especially at the start of the year when we’re all exhausted after the busy festive season. So, if you’re feeling stuck on what to write, these top tips will help you create a newsletter that:
- Stands out.
- Increases your email open rates.
- Resonates with your readers.
- Drives engagement.
But before we get to the tips it’s important to remember to monetise each newsletter, so that it brings in enough revenue to cover the time you have taken to both create it and write it.
This revenue or sales goal should be your bare minimum, then as you get better at marketing and promoting your products and services, your newsletter revenue will become a great source of income for your knitting or crochet business.
Write your first Newsletter of 2025: Format
A good newsletter has 3 or 4 short sections, to help keep your readers attention. If your newsletter is too long and has no clear headings or separation of sections, then your reader will glance and think it’s too much to take in. Whereas a newsletter with short, punchy sections will make it easier to read and digest, in bite-sized chunks.
Add images to help with visual accessibility, and don’t forget your direct links to your product pages because this will make it easier to buy.
Choose 3 from the 5 options below to create a good email format that is engaging, relevant and encourages those sales.
Write your first newsletter of 2025: Content
1. Reflect on 2024 Highlights
Sharing milestones and achievements from the past year creates a connection with your audience and celebrates their role in your journey. For example, you might write:
“Thank you for being part of my journey in 2024! One of my highlights was over 500 crocheters downloading the Daisy Flower Square pattern.”
Why Include This?
- Builds trust and credibility by showcasing your progress.
- Strengthens your bond with your audience by celebrating shared achievements.
How to Monetise:
- Include links to your bestselling patterns or a bundle of your 2024 favourites at a special price, but make sure your offer is time-limited, to encourage immediate sales.
2. Set the Tone for 2025
Introduce your plans, goals, or the trends you’re focusing on in 2025. For instance:
“This year, I’m embracing mindful crafting and sustainability. Check out my stash-busting pattern bundle to join the movement!”
Why Include This?
- Positions you as a leader in your niche.
- Inspires your audience to align their goals with yours.
How to Monetise:
- Promote related workshops, pattern bundles, or subscription services.
- Launch a themed “New Year, New Projects” kit.
3. Offer a Freebie or Quick Win
Providing a free mini-pattern or checklist can capture attention and encourage engagement. For example:
“Kick off your first project of 2025 with this free mini-pattern!”
Why Include This?
- Encourages new subscribers and builds goodwill.
- Attracts engagement on social media when promoted.
How to Monetise:
- Include links to similar patterns or supplies for upselling.
- Follow up with a premium offer via email.
4. Share Personal Goals
Let your audience in on your crafting goals for the year. Example:
“In 2025, I’m focusing on creating more quick and satisfying patterns. What are your crafting goals? Hit reply and let me know!”
Why Include This?
- Builds authenticity and relatability.
- Encourages replies, which boosts email engagement metrics.
How to Monetise:
- Promote tools, materials, or resources you’re using to achieve your goals.
- Share affiliate links for yarns and other supplies.
5. Encourage Engagement
Ask a question to encourage interaction. For instance:
“What’s your biggest crafting goal for 2025? Reply and let me know!”
Why Include This?
- Drives replies, fostering a sense of community.
- Provides valuable insights into your audience’s needs.
How to Monetise:
- Use audience responses to shape future content and products.
- Promote solutions that align with common challenges or goals.
Write Your First Newsletter of 2025: Wrapping It Up with a Clear Call-to-Action
End your newsletter by inviting readers to take action. For example:
“Start 2025 creatively: Explore my New Year’s offers or grab your freebie today! [Link to your product page or freebie]”
Conclusion
Your first newsletter of 2025 is a great opportunity to make a powerful impression on your audience.
By reflecting on the past year, setting goals for the year ahead, and including engaging content like freebies or personal stories, you’ll create a connection that resonates with your readers.
You can also repurpose the content as a visual Instagram carousel to reach even more of your audience and drive engagement across platforms.
Remember, your newsletter isn’t just an update – it’s a tool to inspire, connect, and grow your business. Start the year with confidence, and let your creativity shine, your reputation grow, and your revenue increase.
Did you find my blog post useful? You might enjoy this post too, all about maximising your visit to a yarn trade show:
Yarn Trade Show Visit: My Top Tips to Find New Clients