Blyth (BTH) 10-Q 31 Oct 14 2014 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_And_Entity_Informatio

Document And Entity Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Oct. 29, 2014
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]	'	'
Document Type	'10-Q	'
Amendment Flag	'false	'
Document Period End Date	30-Sep-14	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'2014	'
Document Fiscal Period Focus	'Q3	'
Entity Registrant Name	'BLYTH INC	'
Entity Central Index Key	'0000921503	'
Entity Filer Category	'Accelerated Filer	'
Document Fiscal Year Focus	'--12-31	'
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding	'	16,058,331

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
ASSETS	'	'
Cash and cash equivalents	$50,744	$106,933
Short-term investments	23,917	7,985
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful receivables of $5,367 and $3,932, respectively	13,067	12,556
Inventories	58,116	54,682
Prepaid assets	14,877	17,281
Deferred income taxes	4,783	0
Other current assets	11,114	6,483
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current	'	34,208
Total current assets	176,618	240,128
Property, plant and equipment, at cost:	'	'
Less accumulated depreciation of $152,676 and $151,514, respectively	71,110	76,826
Other assets:	'	'
Investments	10,851	1,070
Goodwill	2,298	2,298
Other intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization of $15,345 and $15,186, respectively	6,621	6,780
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance, Noncurrent	5,801	4,369
Other assets	9,387	7,763
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Noncurrent	'	27,607
Total other assets	34,958	49,887
Total assets	282,686	366,841
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY	'	'
Current maturities of long-term debt	50,905	952
Accounts payable	22,594	27,327
Accrued expenses	39,167	40,931
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net, Current	585	648
Income taxes payable	334	669
Other current liabilities	4,103	9,604
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current	'	23,966
Total current liabilities	117,688	104,097
Long-term debt, less current maturities	4,794	55,326
Other liabilities	11,871	13,922
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Noncurrent	'	147,468
Stockholders' equity:	'	'
Common stock - authorized 50,000,000 shares of $0.02 par value; issued 26,629,750 shares and 26,574,031 shares, respectively	533	532
Additional contributed capital	169,793	168,732
Retained earnings	415,674	312,036
Accumulated other comprehensive income	13,964	16,362
Treasury stock, at cost, 10,571,419 shares and 10,557,342 shares, respectively	-452,166	-452,040
Total stockholders' equity	147,798	45,622
Noncontrolling interest	535	406
Total equity	148,333	46,028
Total liabilities and equity	$282,686	$366,841

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]	'	'
Accounts receivable, allowance for doubtful receivables	$5,367	$3,932
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment	152,676	151,514
Other intangible assets, accumulated amortization	$15,345	$15,186
Common stock, shares authorized	50,000,000	50,000,000
Common stock, par value	$0.02	$0.02
Common stock, shares issued	26,629,750	26,574,031
Treasury stock, shares	10,571,419	10,557,342

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Ear

Consolidated Statements Of Earnings (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Net sales	$90,752	$97,029	$313,224	$336,024
Cost of goods sold	37,257	40,748	121,420	133,387
Gross profit	53,495	56,281	191,804	202,637
Selling	46,689	49,478	148,930	159,261
Administrative and other expense	18,228	18,351	56,564	59,398
Total operating expense	64,917	67,829	205,494	218,659
Operating loss	-11,422	-11,548	-13,690	-16,022
Other expense (income):	'	'	'	'
Interest expense	1,952	2,256	3,943	5,038
Interest income	-133	-100	-283	-508
Foreign exchange and other, net	380	-202	468	-418
Total other expense	2,199	1,954	4,128	4,112
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes and noncontrolling interest	-13,621	-13,502	-17,818	-20,134
Income tax expense	-4,139	-4,479	-5,108	-6,556
Loss from continuing operations	-9,482	-9,023	-12,710	-13,578
Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent	-4,088	636	-7,886	6,590
Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of income tax expenses	89	83	264	244
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	106,173	-8,470	98,972	-7,232
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	($0.59)	($0.57)	($0.80)	($0.85)
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	$7.17	$0.04	$6.95	$0.40
Gain on ViSalus recapitalization	119,832	0	119,832	0
Discontinued Operation, Amount of Other Income (Loss) from Disposition of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	115,744	636	111,946	6,590
Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	106,262	-8,387	99,236	-6,988
Dividend Paid To Noncotrolling Interest Holders in excess of income earned	'	'	($5,471)	'
Basic earnings (loss) per share:	'	'	'	'
Weighted average number of shares outstanding	16,126	16,071	16,105	16,237
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:	'	'	'	'
Weighted average number of shares outstanding	16,168	16,071	16,152	16,237
Cash dividend declared per share	$0	$0.10	$0.05	$0.20

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Com

Consolidated Statements Of Comprehensive Income (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Net earnings	($12,710)	($13,578)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-2,718	1,356
Net unrealized loss on certain investments	'	'
Net unrealized loss on certain investments	-103	-164
Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments	326	-51
Less: Reclassification adjustments for loss included in net income	97	154
Other comprehensive income (loss)	-2,398	1,295
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax	96,838	-5,693
Less: comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-264	-244
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc.	$96,574	($5,937)

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Sto

Consolidated Statements Of Stockholders' Equity (USD $)		Total	Common Stock	Additional Contributed Capital	Retained Earnings	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	Treasury Stock	Noncontrolling Interest
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Beginning balance (as adjusted for stock split) at Dec. 31, 2012		$58,804	$530	$167,080	$318,299	$14,401	($441,774)	$268
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent		-7,232	'	'	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]		'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net earnings		-6,988	'	'	-7,232	'	'	244
Distributions to noncontrolling interest		-131	'	'	'	'	'	-131
Dividend Paid To Noncotrolling Interest Holders in excess of income earned		'	'	'	4,582	'	'	'
Other comprehensive loss		1,295	'	'	'	1,295	'	'
Stock-based compensation		1,405	2	1,403	'	'	'	'
Dividends declared		-3,225	'	'	-3,225	'	'	'
Treasury stock purchases	[1]	-10,266	'	'	'	'	-10,266	'
Ending Balance (as adjusted for stock split) at Sep. 30, 2013		36,312	532	168,483	303,260	15,696	-452,040	381
Beginning balance (as adjusted for stock split) at Dec. 31, 2013		46,028	532	168,732	312,036	16,362	-452,040	406
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent		98,972	'	'	'	'	'	'
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]		'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Net earnings		99,236	'	'	'	'	'	264
Distributions to noncontrolling interest		-135	'	'	'	'	'	-135
Dividend Paid To Noncotrolling Interest Holders in excess of income earned		5,471	'	'	'	'	'	'
Other comprehensive loss		-2,398	'	'	'	-2,398	'	'
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Issued for Services		'	1	'	'	'	'	'
Stock-based compensation		1,062	'	1,061	'	'	'	'
Dividends declared		-805	'	'	-805	'	'	'
Treasury stock purchases	[1]	-126	'	'	'	'	-126	'
Ending Balance (as adjusted for stock split) at Sep. 30, 2014		$148,333	$533	$169,793	$415,674	$13,964	($452,166)	$535
[1]	This includes shares withheld in order to satisfy employee withholding taxes upon the distribution of vested restricted stock units.

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Sto1

Consolidated Statements Of Stockholders' Equity (Parenthetical) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Dividends declared	$0	$0.10	$0.05	$0.20

Consolidated_Statements_Of_Cas

Consolidated Statements Of Cash Flows (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations	($18,553)	$32,351
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations	3,164	-8,581
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	-12,710	-13,578
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings (loss) to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:	'	'
Depreciation and amortization	7,305	7,621
Loss on sale of assets	16	130
Stock-based compensation expense of Blyth, Inc.	1,061	1,405
Deferred income taxes	-6,459	8
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:	'	'
Accounts receivable	-1,035	-4,508
Inventories	-5,061	-10,492
Prepaid and other	-236	585
Other long-term assets	412	-971
Accounts payable	-3,947	-4,236
Accrued expenses	-1,927	-1,343
Income taxes payable	-282	535
Other liabilities and other	-4,830	-4,130
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations	-27,693	-28,974
Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations	-8,761	35,407
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities	-36,454	6,433
Cash flows from investing activities:	'	'
Purchases of property, plant and equipment, net of disposals	-2,521	-2,717
Proceeds from Collection of Notes Receivable	0	10,000
Purchases of short-term investments	-20,032	-12,793
Proceeds from sale of investments	4,000	37,756
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	-15,389	23,770
Proceeds from Sale of Long-term Investments	0	105
Cash flows from financing activities:	'	'
Purchases of treasury stock	0	-9,961
Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt	0	50,000
Repayments on long-term debt	-504	-72,240
Payments on capital lease obligations	-59	-126
Dividends and Interest Paid	-805	-1,617
Distributions to noncontrolling interest	-135	-131
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations	-1,503	-34,075
Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations	0	-31,446
Net cash used in financing activities	-1,503	-65,521
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	-2,843	-108
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	-56,189	-35,426
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	106,933	105,937
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	$50,744	$70,511

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Basis Of Presentation	'
	nd the Catalog & Internet segment (Silver Star Brands, formerly known as the Miles Kimball Company).
	Note 1. Basis of Presentation
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The Company's subsidiaries within the Catalog & Internet segment operate on a 52 or 53-week fiscal year ending on the Saturday closest to December 31. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include all adjustments (consisting only of items that are normal and recurring in nature) necessary for fair presentation of the Company's consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2014 and the consolidated results of its operations and cash flows for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013. These interim statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2013, as set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K. Operating results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2014.
	On September 4, 2014, the Company entered into an agreement with the ViSalus founders and certain other preferred stockholders to exchange the ViSalus redeemable preferred stock for ViSalus common stock, reducing the Company’s ownership interest in ViSalus from approximately 80.9% to 10.0%. As a result of its reduced ownership in ViSalus, the Company will no longer consolidate ViSalus's results in the Company's financial statements; rather, the ViSalus investment will be recorded on a cost basis. Accordingly, the operating results of ViSalus have been presented as discontinued operations for all periods presented as more fully detailed in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
	Recently Adopted Accounting Guidance
	In March 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-05, Foreign Currency Matters (Topic 830): Parent’s Accounting for the Cumulative
	Translation Adjustment upon Derecognition of Certain Subsidiaries or Groups of Assets within a Foreign Entity or of an
	Investment in a Foreign Entity (“ASU 2013-05”). This amendment clarifies the applicable guidance for the release of
	cumulative translation adjustment into net earnings. When an entity ceases to have a controlling financial interest in a
	subsidiary or group of assets within a foreign entity, the entity is required to apply the guidance in FASB Accounting Standards
	Codification (ASC) Topic 830-30 to release any related cumulative translation adjustment into net earnings. The Company adopted ASU 2013-01 as of January 1, 2014. This standard did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position or results of operations.
	In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11, Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss
	Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists ("ASU 2013-11"), which provides guidance for the
	financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a
	tax credit carryforward exists. The Company adopted ASU 2013-11 as of January 1, 2014. This standard did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial position or results of operations.
	Recently Issued Accounting Guidance
	In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): "Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity" ("ASU 2014-08"). ASU 2014-08 changes the definition of reporting discontinued operations by limiting discontinued operations reporting to disposals that represent strategic shifts that will have a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. The amendments of this update also require additional disclosures for discontinued operations. The Company is required to adopt ASU 2014-08 prospectively for all disposals classified as held for sale during fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The adoption of this standard is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.
	In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) ("ASU 2014-09"), which requires an entity to recognize the amount of revenue to which it expects to be entitled for the transfer of promised goods and services to customers. ASU 2014-09 will replace most existing revenue recognition guidance in U.S. GAAP when it becomes effective. The new standard is effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2016. Early adoption is not permitted. The standard permits the use of either the retrospective or cumulative effect transition method. The adoption of this standard is not expected to have a material impact on the Company’s consolidated financial position or results of operations.
	Other Comprehensive Income
	The following table discloses the tax effects allocated to each component of other comprehensive income in the financial statements:
		Nine months ended
	(In thousands)	September 30, 2014										September 30, 2013
		Before-Tax Amount			Tax (Expense) or Benefit			Net-of-tax Amount				Before-Tax Amount			Tax (Expense) or Benefit			Net-of-tax Amount
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	3,247		$	(5,965	)	$	(2,718	)		$	(583	)	$	1,939		$	1,356
	Net unrealized gain (loss) on certain investments	(158		)	55			(103		)		(251		)	87			(164		)
	Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments	502			(176		)	326				(79		)	28			(51		)
	Less: Reclassification adjustments for (gain) loss included in net income	149			(52		)	97				237			(83		)	154
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	3,740		$	(6,138	)	$	(2,398	)		$	(676	)	$	1,971		$	1,295
	The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 is as follows:
	(In thousands)	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment			Net unrealized gain (loss) on certain investments			Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments			Net Investment Hedge gain			Total
	Beginning balance at January 1, 2014	$	13,905		$	263		$	(110	)	$	2,304		$	16,362
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(3,582		)	(103		)	326			864			(2,495		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (1) (2)	—			(44		)	(53		)	—			(97		)
	Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	(3,582		)	(59		)	379			864			(2,398		)
	Balance at September 30, 2014	$	10,323		$	204		$	269		$	3,168		$	13,964
	(1) All amounts net of a 35% tax rate.
	(2) Reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income into Foreign exchange and other and Cost of goods sold.

Discontinued_Operations_discon

Discontinued Operations discontinued operations (Notes)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]	'
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	On September 4, 2014, the Company, ViSalus and certain of ViSalus’s preferred stockholders entered into a recapitalization agreement pursuant to which ViSalus was recapitalized by exchanging each share of ViSalus preferred stock for 38.2 shares of ViSalus common stock, thereby (i) reducing the Company’s ownership interest in ViSalus from approximately 80.9% to 10.0% and (ii) eliminating the obligation of ViSalus to redeem the preferred stock in 2017 (for approximately $143.2 million) and the related guaranty by the Company of ViSalus’s performance of such obligation.
	In connection with this transaction, the Company amended the indenture governing its 6.00% Senior Notes to provide for the mandatory redemption of the Senior Notes on the earlier of March 4, 2015 and the date, if any, that the Company consummates a new financing in the amount of at least $50.0 million. In addition, the Company agreed to make available to ViSalus a revolving credit facility. On October 17, 2014, the Company and ViSalus entered into a revolving loan agreement (the "Blyth Revolving Loan Agreement") pursuant to which the Company agreed to lend ViSalus up to $6.0 million. Loans under the revolving credit agreement will bear interest at a rate of 10% per annum. Interest will be paid monthly and there will be no higher default rate of interest. The revolving loan involves related parties. Robert B. Goergen, Robert B. Goergen, Jr. and Todd A. Goergen own 8.29%, 0.34% and 2.81%, respectively, of the outstanding capital stock of ViSalus. On October 17, 2014, the founders of ViSalus and Robert B. Goergen (the “Founder Lenders”) entered into a substantially similar loan agreement with ViSalus (the “Founder Revolving Loan Agreement”) pursuant to which they made a revolving credit facility available to ViSalus in an amount up to $6.0 million on terms that are substantially identical to the terms of the Blyth Revolving Loan Agreement. Loans made under the Blyth Revolving Loan Agreement and loans made under the Founder Revolving Loan Agreement will be made at the same time in equal amounts and will rank equally with each other. In August 2014, the Company made a $3.0 million short-term loan to ViSalus, which amount was repaid by ViSalus in October 2014 with a borrowing in the same amount under the Blyth Revolving Loan Agreement.
	As a result of its reduced ownership in ViSalus, the Company will no longer consolidate ViSalus's results in the Company's financial statements; rather, the ViSalus investment will be recorded at its fair value of $9.8 million as of the transaction date. The Company will perform periodic impairment reviews to ensure its investment is properly stated. This transaction is presented as discontinued operations in the consolidated financial statements and results of operations for the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2014 and 2013.
	The Company recorded a gain on the recapitalization of ViSalus of $119.8 million, net of tax, as a result of the exchange of the ViSalus preferred stock for ViSalus common stock, which eliminated the Company’s guaranty of ViSalus’s agreement to redeem the preferred stock. This transaction was a non-cash, tax free exchange as the preferred stockholders received ViSalus common stock in exchange for their preferred stock. For the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, Net sales for ViSalus were $27.9 million and $82.4 million and loss before income taxes was $5.5 million and income was $1.5 million, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, Net sales for ViSalus were $138.9 million and $228.3 million and loss before income taxes was $8.7 million and income was $13.2 million, respectively. ViSalus income taxes for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 was a benefit of $0.5 million and an expense of $0.7 million, respectively, and expenses $0.9 million and $5.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
	The following table details assets and liabilities of discontinued operations as of December 31, 2013:
	Total assets of discontinued operations
	Cash	$	7,914
	Accounts receivable, net	149
	Inventories	21,113
	Prepaid and other	1,349
	Deferred tax current	2,517
	Other current assets	1,166
	Current assets of discontinued operations	34,208
	Net plant, property & equipment	18,602
	Investments	1,177
	Deferred tax non-current	5,800
	Intangible assets	2,028
	Non-current assets of discontinued operations	27,607
	Total	$	61,815
	Total liabilities of discontinued operations
	Accounts payable	$	5,870
	Accrued expenses	17,986
	Income taxes payable	110
	Current liabilities of discontinued operations	23,966
	Other liabilities	865
	Redeemable preferred stock	146,603
	Non-current liabilities of discontinued operations	147,468
	Total	$	171,434

Investments

Investments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]	'
Investments	'
	Investments
	The Company’s investments as of September 30, 2014 consisted of a number of financial securities including certificates of deposit, shares in mutual funds invested in short term bonds, and its noncontrolling interest cost investment in ViSalus. The Company accounts for its investments in debt and equity instruments in accordance with ASC 320, “Investments – Debt & Equity Securities.” The Company accounts for its ViSalus investment in accordance with ASC 325, “Investments – Other.”
	The following table summarizes, by major security type, the amortized costs and fair value of the Company’s investments:
		September 30, 2014											December 31, 2013
	(In thousands)	Cost Basis			Fair Value				Net unrealized loss in AOCI (1)				Cost Basis		Fair Value		Net unrealized loss in AOCI (1)
	Short-term bond mutual funds	$	24,000		$	23,917			$	(83	)		$	8,000	$	7,985	$	(15	)
	Certificates of deposit	1,101			1,101				—				1,070		1,070		—
	Investment in ViSalus	9,750			9,750				—				—		—		—
	Total investments	$	34,851		$	34,768			$	(83	)		$	9,070	$	9,055	$	(15	)
	(1) The Company believes these short-term losses are temporary in nature therefore no permanent impairment is required.
	As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company held $23.9 million and $8.0 million, respectively, of short-term bond mutual funds, which are classified as short-term available for sale investments. Unrealized gains and losses on these investments that are considered temporary are recorded in AOCI.  These securities are valued based on quoted prices in active markets. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company recorded insignificant unrealized losses, net of tax.
	Also included in long-term investments are certificates of deposit that are held as collateral for the Company’s outstanding standby letters of credit and for foreign operations of $1.1 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. These investments are recorded at fair value which approximates cost. Interest earned on these investments is recorded in Interest income in the Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss).
	As of September 30, 2014, the Company accounts for its noncontrolling interest in ViSalus on a cost basis under ASC 325, which approximates its fair value. On October 17, 2014 the Company and ViSalus entered into a revolving loan agreement pursuant to which the Company agreed to lend ViSalus up to $6.0 million. Loans under the revolving credit agreement will bear interest at a rate of 10% per annum. Interest will be paid monthly and there will be no higher default rate of interest. In August 2014, the Company made a $3.0 million short-term loan to ViSalus, which amount was repaid by ViSalus in October 2014 with a borrowing in the same amount under the Blyth Revolving Loan Agreement. This investment and any outstanding loan balance will be reviewed periodically for impairment to ensure it is properly stated. These transactions involve related parties as discussed in Note 12.
	In addition to the investments noted above, the Company holds mutual funds as part of a deferred compensation plan which are classified as available for sale. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the fair value of these securities was $0.9 million and $1.0 million, respectively. These securities are valued based on quoted prices in an active market. Unrealized gains and losses on these securities are recorded in AOCI.  These mutual funds are included in Other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
	The following table summarizes the proceeds and realized losses on the sale of available for sale investments recorded in Foreign exchange and other within the Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013. Gains and losses reclassified from AOCI, net to foreign exchange, in the Consolidated Statement of Earnings (Loss) are calculated using the specific identification method.
		Three months ended					Nine months ended
	(In thousands)	30-Sep-14		30-Sep-13			30-Sep-14			30-Sep-13
	Net proceeds	$	—	$	9,585		$	4,000		$	37,861
	Realized losses	$	—	$	(48	)	$	—		$	(105	)

Inventories

Inventories	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Inventory, Net [Abstract]	'
Inventories	'
	Inventories
	The major components of Inventories are as follows:
	(In thousands)	September 30, 2014		December 31, 2013
	Raw materials	$	4,221	$	3,642
	Finished goods	53,895		51,040
	Total	$	58,116	$	54,682
	As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the inventory valuation adjustments totaled $6.5 million and $5.5 million, respectively, and have been netted against the above amounts.

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangibles

Goodwill And Other Intangibles	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Goodwill And Other Intangibles	'
	Goodwill and Other Intangibles
	Goodwill is subject to an assessment for impairment using a two-step fair value-based test and, as such, other intangibles are also subject to impairment reviews, which must be performed at least annually or more frequently if events or circumstances indicate that goodwill or other indefinite-lived intangibles might be impaired. As of September 30, 2014, there were no indications that a review was necessary.
	As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the carrying amount of the Company’s goodwill within the Candles & Home Décor segment was $2.3 million, respectively.
	Other intangible assets include indefinite-lived trade names, trademarks, domain names and customer relationships related to the Company's acquisition of Miles Kimball, Walter Drake and As We Change, which are reported in the Catalog & Internet segment. The Company does not amortize the indefinite-lived trade names, trademarks and domain names, but rather tests for impairment annually upon the occurrence of a triggering event. As of September 30, 2014, there were no indications that a review was necessary.
	Other intangible assets include the following within the Catalog & Internet Segment:
	(In thousands)	Indefinite-lived trade names and trademarks			Customer relationships
	Other intangibles at Gross value	$	28,100		$	15,400
	Accumulated amortization	—			(15,186		)
	Impairments	(21,534		)	—
	Other intangibles at December 31, 2013	$	6,566		$	214
	Amortization	—			(159		)
	Other intangibles at September 30, 2014	$	6,566		$	55
	Amortization expense is recorded on an accelerated basis over the estimated lives of the customer lists ranging from 5 to 12 years. Amortization expense for other intangible assets was $0.2 million and $0.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The estimated annual amortization expense for 2014 is $0.2 million and an insignificant amount to be amortized in 2015.

Fair_Value_Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Fair Value Measurements	'
	Fair Value Measurements
	The fair-value hierarchy established in ASC 820 prioritizes the inputs used in valuation techniques into three levels as follows:
		Level-1 – Observable inputs – quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities
		Level-2 – Observable inputs other than the quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities – such as quoted prices for similar instruments, quoted prices for identical or similar instruments in inactive markets, or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data;
		Level-3 – Unobservable inputs – includes amounts derived from valuation models where one or more significant inputs are unobservable and require the Company to develop relevant assumptions.
	Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Recurring Basis
	The following tables summarize the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of  September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and the basis for that measurement, by level within the fair value hierarchy:
	(In thousands)	Balance as of September 30, 2014			Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)		Significant			Significant
							other observable inputs			unobservable inputs
							(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Financial assets
	Certificates of deposit	$	1,101		$	—	$	1,101		$	—
	Short-term bond mutual funds	23,917			23,917		—			—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	480			—		480			—
	Deferred compensation plan assets (1)	918			918		—			—
	Total	$	26,416		$	24,835	$	1,581		$	—
	(1) Recorded as an Other asset with an offsetting liability for the obligation to its employees in Other liabilities.
	(In thousands)	Balance as of December 31, 2013			Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)		Significant			Significant
							other observable inputs			unobservable inputs
							(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Financial assets
	Certificates of deposit	$	1,070		$	—	$	1,070		$	—
	Short-term bond mutual funds	7,985			7,985		—			—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	44			—		44			—
	Deferred compensation plan assets (1)	1,007			1,007		—			—
	Total	$	10,106		$	8,992	$	1,114		$	—
	Financial liabilities
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	$	(225	)	$	—	$	(225	)	$	—
	(1) Recorded as an Other asset with an offsetting liability for the obligation to its employees in Other liabilities.
	The Company values its investments in equity securities within the deferred compensation plan and its investments in short term bond mutual funds using level 1 inputs, by obtaining quoted prices in active markets.  The deferred compensation plan assets consist of shares of mutual funds. The Company also enters into both cash flow and fair value hedges by purchasing foreign currency exchange forward contracts. These contracts are valued using level 2 inputs, primarily observable forward foreign exchange rates. The certificates of deposit that are used to collateralize some of the Company’s letters of credit have been valued using information classified as level 2, as these are not traded on the open market and are held unsecured by one counterparty.
	The carrying values of cash and cash equivalents, trade and other receivables and trade payables are considered to be representative of their respective fair values.
	Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis
	The Company is required, on a non-recurring basis, to adjust the carrying value or provide valuation allowances for certain assets using fair value measurements in accordance with ASC 820. The Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis include property, plant and equipment, goodwill, intangibles, its ViSalus investment and other assets. These assets are not measured at fair value on a recurring basis; however, they are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances, such as when there is evidence that impairment may exist. As of September 30, 2014, there were no indications or circumstances indicating that an impairment might exist.

Derivatives_and_Other_Financia

Derivatives and Other Financial Instruments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
General Discussion of Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract]	'
Derivative Instruments And Hedging Activities	'
	Derivatives and Other Financial Instruments
	The Company uses foreign exchange forward contracts to hedge the impact of foreign currency fluctuations on foreign denominated inventory purchases, net assets of our foreign operations, intercompany payables and loans. It does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes. The Company has hedged the net assets of certain of its foreign operations through foreign currency forward contracts. The realized and unrealized gains/losses on these hedges are recorded within AOCI until the investment is sold or disposed of. As of September 30, 2014, there were two outstanding net investment hedges. The cumulative net after-tax gain related to net investment hedges in AOCI as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 was $3.2 million and $2.3 million.
	The Company has designated its foreign currency forward contracts related to certain foreign denominated loans and intercompany payables as fair value hedges.  The gains or losses on the fair value hedges are recognized into earnings and generally offset the transaction gains or losses in the foreign denominated loans that they are intended to hedge.
	The Company has designated forward exchange contracts on forecasted intercompany inventory purchases and future purchase commitments as cash flow hedges and as long as the hedge remains effective and the underlying transaction remains probable, the effective portion of the changes in the fair value of these contracts will be recorded in AOCI until earnings are affected by the variability of the cash flows being hedged. Upon settlement of each commitment, the underlying forward contract is closed and the corresponding gain or loss is transferred from AOCI and is included in the measurement of the cost of the acquired asset upon sale.  If a hedging instrument is sold or terminated prior to maturity, gains and losses are deferred in AOCI until the hedged item is settled.  However, if the hedged item is probable of not occurring, the resulting gain or loss on the terminated hedge is recognized into earnings immediately.  The net after-tax unrealized gain included in AOCI at September 30, 2014 for cash flow hedges was $0.3 million and is expected to be transferred into earnings within the next twelve months upon settlement of the underlying commitment. The net after-tax unrealized loss included in AOCI at December 31, 2013 for cash flow hedges was $0.1 million.
	For financial statement presentation, net cash flows from such hedges are classified in the categories of the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows with the items being hedged. Forward contracts held with each bank are presented within the Consolidated Balance Sheets as a net asset or liability, based on netting agreements with each bank and whether the forward contracts are in a net gain or loss position. The foreign exchange contracts outstanding have maturity dates through July 2015.
	The table below details the fair value and location of the Company’s fair value hedges in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:
	(In thousands)	30-Sep-14		31-Dec-13
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments	Prepaid Assets		Accrued Expenses
	Foreign exchange forward contracts in an asset position	$	480	$	44
	Foreign exchange forward contracts in a liability position	—		(225		)
	Net derivatives at fair value	$	480	$	(181	)
	For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded a gain of $0.2 million and an insignificant loss, respectively, compared to a losses of $0.1 million and $0.2 million in both comparable prior year periods related to foreign exchange forward contracts accounted for as Fair Value hedges to Foreign exchange and other.
	Gain and loss activity recorded to cost of goods sold and reclassified from AOCI related to the Company's Cash Flow hedges for the three and nine months ended September 30, are as follows:
		Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative					Amount of Gain (Loss)
	Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	(Effective Portion)					Reclassified from AOCI into Income
							(Effective Portion)
	(In thousands)						Three months ended					Nine months ended
		2014		2013			2014		2013			2014			2013
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	$	541	$	(180	)	$	76	$	(72	)	$	(42	)	$	(166	)

Accrued_Expenses

Accrued Expenses	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]	'
Accrued Expenses	'
	Accrued Expenses
	Accrued expenses consist of the following:
	(In thousands)	September 30, 2014		December 31, 2013
	Deferred revenue	$	10,829	$	9,455
	Compensation and benefits	9,851		11,715
	Promotional	5,230		6,874
	Professional fees	2,170		1,433
	Interest payable	1,569		384
	Taxes, other than income	1,488		1,632
	Self insurance reserves	1,168		789
	Inventory	247		633
	Other	6,615		8,016
	Total	$	39,167	$	40,931

LongTerm_Debt

Long-Term Debt	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Long-Term Debt	'
	Long-Term Debt
	On May 10, 2013, the Company issued $50.0 million principal amount of 6.00% Senior Notes. The Senior Notes bear interest payable semi-annually in arrears on May 15 and November 15. In connection with the ViSalus recapitalization, the Company amended the indenture governing the Senior Notes to provide for the mandatory redemption of the Senior Notes on the earlier of March 4, 2015 or the date, if any, that the Company consummates a new financing in the amount of at least $50.0 million. This amendment was accounted for as a modification in accordance with ASC section 470-50 “Debt -Modifications and Extinguishments.” As a result, the Company will be required to a pay a $3.0 million redemption premium in addition to normal interest on or before March 4, 2015 or sooner if the Company consummates new financing in the amount of at least $50.0 million. The redemption premium will be expensed on a pro rata basis from September 4, 2014 through the redemption date. As of September 30, 2014, the Company recorded $0.4 million of additional interest expense associated with the redemption premium. The Company has classified the Senior Notes as current. In addition, to secure the obligations under the indenture, the Company granted a security interest to the lender in substantially all of its personal property and certain of its real property. See Note 2 and “Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations - Liquidity and Capital Resources.”
	As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, Silver Star Brands had approximately $5.0 million and $5.5 million, respectively, of long-term debt outstanding under a real estate mortgage note payable which matures June 1, 2020.  Under the terms of the note, payments of principal and interest are required monthly at a fixed interest rate of 7.89%.
	The Company’s debt is recorded at its amortized cost basis which approximates its fair value.
	As of September 30, 2014, the Company had a total of $2.4 million available under an uncommitted bank facility to be used for letters of credit. The issuance of letters of credit under this facility will be available until January 31, 2015.  As of September 30, 2014, no amount was outstanding under this facility.
	As of September 30, 2014, the Company had $1.1 million in standby letters of credit outstanding that are collateralized with a certificate of deposit and have an expiration date of March 1, 2015.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Income Taxes	'
	Income Taxes
	The Company's effective tax rate for the three months ended September 30, 2014 was 30% which resulted in an income tax benefit of $4.1 million on a net loss before taxes of $13.6 million. This compares to 33% for the three months ended September 30, 2013, which resulted in a tax benefit of $4.5 million on a net loss before taxes of $13.5 million. The tax expense on the pre-tax loss this year, as compared to the U.S. statutory tax rate, is primarily a result of the origin in which the Company’s income was earned during the respective period and no tax benefit being realized on certain foreign net operating losses.
	The Company's effective tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was 29% which resulted in an income tax benefit of $5.1 million on a net loss before taxes of $17.8 million. This compares to 33% for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, which resulted in a tax benefit of $6.6 million on a net loss before taxes of $20.1 million. The tax expense on the pre-tax loss this year, as compared to the U.S. statutory tax rate, is primarily a result of the origin in which the Company’s income was earned during the respective period, no tax benefit being realized on certain foreign net operating losses and an accrual of valuation allowance on state net operating losses for which a benefit was recorded in prior periods.
	Due to the various jurisdictions in which the Company files tax returns and the uncertainty regarding the timing of the settlement of tax audits, it is possible that there could be significant changes in the amount of unrecognized tax benefits in 2014 but the amount cannot be estimated. There has been no material change in the Company's contingency reserve for the nine months ended September 30, 2014.

Related_Party_Transactions

Related Party Transactions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Related Party Transaction, Due from (to) Related Party [Abstract]	'
Related Party Transactions	'
	Related Party Transactions
	The acquisition and recapitalization of ViSalus by the Company involves related parties.  ViSalus was owned in part by Ropart Asset Management Fund, LLC and related entities (collectively, “RAM”), which owned a significant non-controlling interest in ViSalus at the time of acquisition and through September 2012. In September 2012, RAM distributed its interest in ViSalus to its members, including Robert B. Goergen (our executive Chairman of the Board of Directors), Robert B. Goergen, Jr. (our President and Chief Executive Officer) and Todd A. Goergen (the Chief Operating Officer and interim Chief Financial Officer of ViSalus). Robert B. Goergen beneficially owns approximately 36.0% of the Company’s outstanding common stock, and together with members of his family, owns substantially all of RAM.  Todd A. Goergen is currently a member of the Board of Directors of ViSalus and was a member of the board of ViSalus at the time of the acquisition and recapitalization.
	Revolving Loan Agreement with ViSalus. In connection with the ViSalus recapitalization, the Company agreed to make available to ViSalus a $6.0 million revolving credit facility. On October 17, 2014, the founders of ViSalus and Robert B. Goergen (the “Founder Lenders”) entered into a substantially similar loan agreement with ViSalus (the “Founder Revolving Loan Agreement”) pursuant to which they made a revolving credit facility available to ViSalus in an amount up to $6.0 million on terms that are substantially identical to the terms of the Blyth Revolving Loan Agreement. Loans made under the Blyth Revolving Loan Agreement and loans made under the Founder Revolving Loan Agreement will be made at the same time in equal amounts and will rank equally with each other. The revolving loan involves related parties. Robert B. Goergen, Robert B. Goergen, Jr. and Todd A. Goergen own 8.29%, 0.34% and 2.81%, respectively, of the outstanding capital stock of ViSalus.
	Management and Transition Services with ViSalus. In July 2012, ViSalus and the Company entered into a management services agreement under which the Company provided certain administrative support services to ViSalus for what was believed to be an arm's length price for such services. The basis for determining the price for the services under the management services agreement was on a cost recovery basis and required ViSalus to pay for such services within 30 days of receipt of the invoice. In connection with the recapitalization of ViSalus in September 2014, Blyth and ViSalus entered into a new transition services agreement pursuant to which Blyth agreed to provide certain transition services to ViSalus, including, general administrative services, certain business support services, payroll services and maintenance of certain insurance policies and employee benefit programs. Transition services will be provided for terms that vary by service and are generally considered sufficient to allow ViSalus to arrange for such services on its own behalf following the recapitalization. The transition services will be provided at a fee that is 6% greater than the Company’s actual, out-of-pocket expenses in providing the applicable transition service. The estimated total cost of services to be provided in 2014 under both the management and transition services agreements is
	$0.8 million.
	RAM Sublease. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, RAM paid the Company $0.1 million, respectively, to sublet office space, which the Company believes approximates the fair market rental for the rental period.

Stock_Based_Compensation

Stock Based Compensation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Stock Based Compensation	'
	Stock-Based Compensation
	Blyth, Inc. Amended and Restated 2003 Omnibus Incentive Plan
	As of September 30, 2014, the Company had one active stock-based compensation plan, the Second Amended and Restated Omnibus Incentive Plan (“2003 Plan”), available to grant future awards. There were 2,040,897 shares authorized for grant as of September 30, 2014, and approximately 1,570,776 shares available for grant under the 2003 Plan. The Company’s policy is to issue new shares of common stock for all stock options exercised and restricted stock grants.
	The Board of Directors and the stockholders of the Company have approved the adoption and subsequent amendments of the 2003 Plan. The 2003 Plan provides for grants of incentive and nonqualified stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares, performance units, dividend equivalents and other stock unit awards to officers and employees. The 2003 Plan also provides for grants of nonqualified stock options to directors of the Company who are not, and who have not been during the immediately preceding 12-month period, officers or employees of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. Restricted stock and restricted stock units (“RSUs”) are granted to certain employees to incent performance and retention. RSUs issued under these plans provide that shares awarded may not be sold or otherwise transferred until restrictions have lapsed. The release of RSUs on each of the vesting dates is contingent upon continued active employment by the employee until the vesting dates.
	Stock-based compensation expense recognized during the period is based on the value of the portion of stock-based payment awards that is ultimately expected to vest during the period. Stock-based compensation expense recognized in the Company’s Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 included compensation expense for restricted stock, RSUs and stock-based awards granted subsequent to January 31, 2006 based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the provisions of ASC 718, “Compensation—Stock Compensation” (“ASC 718”). The Company recognizes these compensation costs net of a forfeiture rate for only those awards expected to vest, on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the award, which is over periods of 3 years for stock options; 2 to 5 years for employee restricted stock and RSUs; and 1 to 2 years for non-employee restricted stock and RSUs. Forfeitures are estimated at the time of grant and revised, if necessary, in subsequent periods if actual forfeitures differ from those estimates.
	Transactions related to restricted stock and RSUs are summarized as follows:
		Shares		Weighted Average		Aggregate Intrinsic Value
				Grant Date Fair Value		(In thousands)
	Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs at December 31, 2013	100,740		$	24.25	$	1,096
	Granted	136,949		9.49
	Vested	(69,701	)	26.64
	Forfeited	(103	)	37.55
	Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs at September 30, 2014	167,885		$	11.21	$	1,363
	Total restricted stock and RSUs at September 30, 2014	239,757		$	17.87	$	1,947
	Compensation expense related to restricted stock and RSUs for the three months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 was approximately $0.3 million and total recognized tax benefit was approximately $0.1 million. Compensation expense related to restricted stock and RSUs for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 was approximately $1.1 million and $1.4 million, respectively. The total recognized tax benefit for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013 was approximately $0.4 million and $0.5 million, respectively.
	As of September 30, 2014, there was $0.8 million of unearned compensation expense related to non-vested restricted stock and RSU awards.  This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 1.9 years. The total unrecognized stock-based compensation cost to be recognized in future periods as of September 30, 2014 does not consider the effect of stock-based awards that may be issued in subsequent periods.
	Authorized unissued shares may be used under the stock-based compensation plans. The Company intends to issue shares of its common stock to meet the stock requirements of its awards in the future.

Earnings_Per_Share

Earnings Per Share	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Earnings Per Share	'
	Earnings Per Share
	Vested restricted stock units issued under the Company’s stock-based compensation plans participate in a cash equivalent of the dividends paid to common stockholders and are not considered contingently issuable shares. Accordingly, these RSUs are included in the calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share as common stock equivalents. RSUs that have not vested and are subject to a risk of forfeiture are included solely in the calculation of diluted earnings per share.
	The components of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows:
		Three months ended						Nine months ended
	(In thousands)	September 30, 2014			September 30, 2013			September 30, 2014			September 30, 2013
	Net earnings (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc.	$	106,173		$	(8,470	)	$	98,972		$	(7,232	)
	Weighted average number outstanding:
	Common shares	16,055			16,013			16,041			16,182
	Vested restricted stock units	71			58			64			55
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
	Basic common shares outstanding	16,126			16,071			16,105			16,237
	Dilutive effect of non-vested restricted shares units	42			—			47			—
	Diluted common shares outstanding	16,168			16,071			16,152			16,237
	Basic earnings per share
	Net loss from continuing operations	$	(0.59	)	$	(0.57	)	$	(0.80	)	$	(0.85	)
	Net earnings from discontinued operations	7.17			0.04			6.95			0.4
	Net earnings (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc.	$	6.58		$	(0.53	)	$	6.15		$	(0.45	)
	Diluted earnings per share
	Net loss from continuing operations	$	(0.59	)	$	(0.57	)	$	(0.80	)	$	(0.85	)
	Net earnings from discontinued operations	7.16			0.04			6.93			0.4
	Net earnings (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc.	$	6.57		$	(0.53	)	$	6.13		$	(0.45	)
	As of September 30, 2013, options to purchase 2,500 shares of common stock, respectively, are not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect would be antidilutive.

Treasury_And_Common_Stock

Treasury And Common Stock	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Treasury And Common Stock [Abstract]	'
Treasury And Common Stock	'
	Treasury and Common Stock
	Treasury Stock (In thousands, except shares)	Shares	Amount
	Balance at January 1, 2013	9,944,239	$	(441,774	)
	Treasury stock purchases	594,582	(9,961		)
	Treasury stock withheld in connection with long-term incentive plan	18,521	(305		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	10,557,342	$	(452,040	)
	Treasury stock withheld in connection with long-term incentive plan	14,077	(126		)
	Balance at September 30, 2014	10,571,419	$	(452,166	)
	Common Stock (In thousands, except shares)	Shares	Amount
	Balance at January 1, 2013	26,505,210	$	530
	Common stock issued in connection with long-term incentive plan	68,821	2
	Balance at December 31, 2013	26,574,031	$	532
	Common stock issued in connection with long-term incentive plan	55,719	1
	Balance at September 30, 2014	26,629,750	$	533

Segment_Information

Segment Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Segment Information	'
	Segment Information
	The Company’s products include an extensive array of decorative and functional household products such as candles,
	accessories, seasonal decorations, household convenience items, personalized gifts, as well as health, wellness and beauty related products. The Company's products can be found throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe and Australia. The Company's financial results are reported in two segments: the Candles & Home Décor segment and the Catalog & Internet
	segment.
	Within the Candles & Home Décor segment, the Company designs, manufactures or sources, markets and distributes an
	extensive line of products including scented candles, candle-related accessories and other fragranced products under the
	PartyLite® brand. Products in this segment are sold predominately through networks of independent sales consultants. PartyLite brand products are sold in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe and Australia.
	Within the Catalog & Internet segment, under the Silver Star Brands name, the Company designs, sources and markets a broad
	range of household convenience items, health, wellness and beauty products, holiday cards, personalized gifts, kitchen accessories, premium photo albums and frames. These products are sold directly to the consumer under the Miles Kimball®, Walter Drake®, Easy Comforts®, As We Change® and Exposures® brands. These products are sold in the United States and Canada.
	Operating profit in all segments represents net sales less operating expenses directly related to the business segments and
	corporate expenses allocated to the business segments. Other expense includes Interest expense, Interest income, and Foreign
	exchange and other which are not allocated to the business segments. Identifiable assets for each segment consist of assets
	used directly in its operations and intangible assets, if any, resulting from purchase of business combinations. Unallocated
	Corporate within the identifiable assets include cash and cash equivalents, short-term investments, prepaid income tax, corporate fixed assets, deferred debt costs and other long-term investments, which are not allocated to the business segments.
	Operating Segment Information
		Three months ended						Nine months ended
	(In thousands)	September 30, 2014			September 30, 2013			September 30, 2014			September 30, 2013
	Net Sales
	Candles & Home Décor	$	60,728		$	67,525		$	214,332		$	236,282
	Catalog & Internet	30,024			29,504			98,892			99,742
	Total	$	90,752		$	97,029		$	313,224		$	336,024
	Earnings (loss) from operations before income taxes
	Candles & Home Décor	$	(10,602	)	$	(10,845	)	$	(10,540	)	$	(11,091	)
	Catalog & Internet	(820		)	(703		)	(3,150		)	(4,931		)
	Operating profit (loss)	(11,422		)	(11,548		)	(13,690		)	(16,022		)
	Unallocated Corporate	(2,199		)	(1,954		)	(4,128		)	(4,112		)
	Total	$	(13,621	)	$	(13,502	)	$	(17,818	)	$	(20,134	)
	Identifiable Assets	September 30, 2014			December 31, 2013
	Candles & Home Décor	$	161,988		$	175,900
	Catalog & Internet	50,501			50,880
	Unallocated  Corporate	70,197			140,061
	Total	$	282,686		$	366,841

Contingencies

Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]	'
	The Company is involved in litigation arising in the ordinary course of business, which, in its opinion, will not have a
	material adverse effect on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

Basis_of_Presentation_Policies

Basis of Presentation (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Principles of Consolidation	'
	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. All intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated. The Company's subsidiaries within the Catalog & Internet segment operate on a 52 or 53-week fiscal year ending on the Saturday closest to December 31. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements include all adjustments (consisting only of items that are normal and recurring in nature) necessary for fair presentation of the Company's consolidated financial position as of September 30, 2014 and the consolidated results of its operations and cash flows for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013. These interim statements should be read in conjunction with the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements for the year ended December 31, 2013, as set forth in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K. Operating results for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2014 are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the year ending December 31, 2014.

Basis_of_Presentation_Tables

Basis of Presentation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Tax Effects Allocated To Each Component Of Other Comprehensive Income	'
	The following table discloses the tax effects allocated to each component of other comprehensive income in the financial statements:
		Nine months ended
	(In thousands)	September 30, 2014										September 30, 2013
		Before-Tax Amount			Tax (Expense) or Benefit			Net-of-tax Amount				Before-Tax Amount			Tax (Expense) or Benefit			Net-of-tax Amount
	Foreign currency translation adjustments	$	3,247		$	(5,965	)	$	(2,718	)		$	(583	)	$	1,939		$	1,356
	Net unrealized gain (loss) on certain investments	(158		)	55			(103		)		(251		)	87			(164		)
	Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments	502			(176		)	326				(79		)	28			(51		)
	Less: Reclassification adjustments for (gain) loss included in net income	149			(52		)	97				237			(83		)	154
	Other comprehensive income (loss)	$	3,740		$	(6,138	)	$	(2,398	)		$	(676	)	$	1,971		$	1,295
	The components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 is as follows:
	(In thousands)	Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment			Net unrealized gain (loss) on certain investments			Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments			Net Investment Hedge gain			Total
	Beginning balance at January 1, 2014	$	13,905		$	263		$	(110	)	$	2,304		$	16,362
	Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications	(3,582		)	(103		)	326			864			(2,495		)
	Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss (1) (2)	—			(44		)	(53		)	—			(97		)
	Net current period other comprehensive income (loss)	(3,582		)	(59		)	379			864			(2,398		)
	Balance at September 30, 2014	$	10,323		$	204		$	269		$	3,168		$	13,964
	(1) All amounts net of a 35% tax rate.
	(2) Reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive income into Foreign exchange and other and Cost of goods sold.

Investments_Tables

Investments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Amortized Costs And Fair Value	'
	The following table summarizes, by major security type, the amortized costs and fair value of the Company’s investments:
		September 30, 2014											December 31, 2013
	(In thousands)	Cost Basis			Fair Value				Net unrealized loss in AOCI (1)				Cost Basis		Fair Value		Net unrealized loss in AOCI (1)
	Short-term bond mutual funds	$	24,000		$	23,917			$	(83	)		$	8,000	$	7,985	$	(15	)
	Certificates of deposit	1,101			1,101				—				1,070		1,070		—
	Investment in ViSalus	9,750			9,750				—				—		—		—
	Total investments	$	34,851		$	34,768			$	(83	)		$	9,070	$	9,055	$	(15	)
Schedule Of Gains And Losses	'
		Three months ended					Nine months ended
	(In thousands)	30-Sep-14		30-Sep-13			30-Sep-14			30-Sep-13
	Net proceeds	$	—	$	9,585		$	4,000		$	37,861
	Realized losses	$	—	$	(48	)	$	—		$	(105	)

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Inventory, Net [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Components Of Inventory	'
	The major components of Inventories are as follows:
	(In thousands)	September 30, 2014		December 31, 2013
	Raw materials	$	4,221	$	3,642
	Finished goods	53,895		51,040
	Total	$	58,116	$	54,682

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangibles1

Goodwill And Other Intangibles (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Other Intangible Assets By Segment	'
	Other intangible assets include the following within the Catalog & Internet Segment:
	(In thousands)	Indefinite-lived trade names and trademarks			Customer relationships
	Other intangibles at Gross value	$	28,100		$	15,400
	Accumulated amortization	—			(15,186		)
	Impairments	(21,534		)	—
	Other intangibles at December 31, 2013	$	6,566		$	214
	Amortization	—			(159		)
	Other intangibles at September 30, 2014	$	6,566		$	55

Fair_Value_Measurements_Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis	'
	The following tables summarize the financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of  September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and the basis for that measurement, by level within the fair value hierarchy:
	(In thousands)	Balance as of September 30, 2014			Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)		Significant			Significant
							other observable inputs			unobservable inputs
							(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Financial assets
	Certificates of deposit	$	1,101		$	—	$	1,101		$	—
	Short-term bond mutual funds	23,917			23,917		—			—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	480			—		480			—
	Deferred compensation plan assets (1)	918			918		—			—
	Total	$	26,416		$	24,835	$	1,581		$	—
	(1) Recorded as an Other asset with an offsetting liability for the obligation to its employees in Other liabilities.
	(In thousands)	Balance as of December 31, 2013			Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1)		Significant			Significant
							other observable inputs			unobservable inputs
							(Level 2)			(Level 3)
	Financial assets
	Certificates of deposit	$	1,070		$	—	$	1,070		$	—
	Short-term bond mutual funds	7,985			7,985		—			—
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	44			—		44			—
	Deferred compensation plan assets (1)	1,007			1,007		—			—
	Total	$	10,106		$	8,992	$	1,114		$	—
	Financial liabilities
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	$	(225	)	$	—	$	(225	)	$	—
	(1) Recorded as an Other asset with an offsetting liability for the obligation to its employees in Other liabilities.

Derivatives_and_Other_Financia1

Derivatives and Other Financial Instruments (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
General Discussion of Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Fair Value And Location Of Hedges In The Consolidated Balance Sheets	'
	The table below details the fair value and location of the Company’s fair value hedges in the Consolidated Balance Sheets:
	(In thousands)	30-Sep-14		31-Dec-13
	Derivatives designated as hedging instruments	Prepaid Assets		Accrued Expenses
	Foreign exchange forward contracts in an asset position	$	480	$	44
	Foreign exchange forward contracts in a liability position	—		(225		)
	Net derivatives at fair value	$	480	$	(181	)
Schedule Of Cash Flow Hedges	'
		Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in AOCI on Derivative					Amount of Gain (Loss)
	Cash Flow Hedging Relationships	(Effective Portion)					Reclassified from AOCI into Income
							(Effective Portion)
	(In thousands)						Three months ended					Nine months ended
		2014		2013			2014		2013			2014			2013
	Foreign exchange forward contracts	$	541	$	(180	)	$	76	$	(72	)	$	(42	)	$	(166	)

Accrued_Expenses_Tables

Accrued Expenses (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Accrued Expenses	'
	Accrued expenses consist of the following:
	(In thousands)	September 30, 2014		December 31, 2013
	Deferred revenue	$	10,829	$	9,455
	Compensation and benefits	9,851		11,715
	Promotional	5,230		6,874
	Professional fees	2,170		1,433
	Interest payable	1,569		384
	Taxes, other than income	1,488		1,632
	Self insurance reserves	1,168		789
	Inventory	247		633
	Other	6,615		8,016
	Total	$	39,167	$	40,931

Stock_Based_Compensation_Table

Stock Based Compensation (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Restricted Stock And RSUs	'
	Transactions related to restricted stock and RSUs are summarized as follows:
		Shares		Weighted Average		Aggregate Intrinsic Value
				Grant Date Fair Value		(In thousands)
	Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs at December 31, 2013	100,740		$	24.25	$	1,096
	Granted	136,949		9.49
	Vested	(69,701	)	26.64
	Forfeited	(103	)	37.55
	Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs at September 30, 2014	167,885		$	11.21	$	1,363
	Total restricted stock and RSUs at September 30, 2014	239,757		$	17.87	$	1,947
Schedule Of Stock Options	'

Earnings_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings Per Share (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Components Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Share	'
	The components of basic and diluted earnings per share are as follows:
		Three months ended						Nine months ended
	(In thousands)	September 30, 2014			September 30, 2013			September 30, 2014			September 30, 2013
	Net earnings (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc.	$	106,173		$	(8,470	)	$	98,972		$	(7,232	)
	Weighted average number outstanding:
	Common shares	16,055			16,013			16,041			16,182
	Vested restricted stock units	71			58			64			55
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
	Basic common shares outstanding	16,126			16,071			16,105			16,237
	Dilutive effect of non-vested restricted shares units	42			—			47			—
	Diluted common shares outstanding	16,168			16,071			16,152			16,237
	Basic earnings per share
	Net loss from continuing operations	$	(0.59	)	$	(0.57	)	$	(0.80	)	$	(0.85	)
	Net earnings from discontinued operations	7.17			0.04			6.95			0.4
	Net earnings (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc.	$	6.58		$	(0.53	)	$	6.15		$	(0.45	)
	Diluted earnings per share
	Net loss from continuing operations	$	(0.59	)	$	(0.57	)	$	(0.80	)	$	(0.85	)
	Net earnings from discontinued operations	7.16			0.04			6.93			0.4
	Net earnings (loss) attributable to Blyth, Inc.	$	6.57		$	(0.53	)	$	6.13		$	(0.45	)

Treasury_And_Common_Stock_Tabl

Treasury And Common Stock (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Treasury And Common Stock [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Treasury Stock	'
	Treasury Stock (In thousands, except shares)	Shares	Amount
	Balance at January 1, 2013	9,944,239	$	(441,774	)
	Treasury stock purchases	594,582	(9,961		)
	Treasury stock withheld in connection with long-term incentive plan	18,521	(305		)
	Balance at December 31, 2013	10,557,342	$	(452,040	)
	Treasury stock withheld in connection with long-term incentive plan	14,077	(126		)
	Balance at September 30, 2014	10,571,419	$	(452,166	)
Schedule Of Common Stock	'
	Common Stock (In thousands, except shares)	Shares	Amount
	Balance at January 1, 2013	26,505,210	$	530
	Common stock issued in connection with long-term incentive plan	68,821	2
	Balance at December 31, 2013	26,574,031	$	532
	Common stock issued in connection with long-term incentive plan	55,719	1
	Balance at September 30, 2014	26,629,750	$	533

Segment_Information_Tables

Segment Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]	'
Schedule Of Net Sales And Operating Profit By Segment	'
		Three months ended						Nine months ended
	(In thousands)	September 30, 2014			September 30, 2013			September 30, 2014			September 30, 2013
	Net Sales
	Candles & Home Décor	$	60,728		$	67,525		$	214,332		$	236,282
	Catalog & Internet	30,024			29,504			98,892			99,742
	Total	$	90,752		$	97,029		$	313,224		$	336,024
	Earnings (loss) from operations before income taxes
	Candles & Home Décor	$	(10,602	)	$	(10,845	)	$	(10,540	)	$	(11,091	)
	Catalog & Internet	(820		)	(703		)	(3,150		)	(4,931		)
	Operating profit (loss)	(11,422		)	(11,548		)	(13,690		)	(16,022		)
	Unallocated Corporate	(2,199		)	(1,954		)	(4,128		)	(4,112		)
	Total	$	(13,621	)	$	(13,502	)	$	(17,818	)	$	(20,134	)
	Identifiable Assets	September 30, 2014			December 31, 2013
	Candles & Home Décor	$	161,988		$	175,900
	Catalog & Internet	50,501			50,880
	Unallocated  Corporate	70,197			140,061
	Total	$	282,686		$	366,841

Basis_of_Presentation_Summary_

Basis of Presentation - Summary of Accumulated Other Income (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]	'	'
Foreign currency translation adjustments, Before Tax Amount	$3,247	($583)
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Tax	-5,965	1,939
Foreign currency translation adjustments, Net of Tax	-2,718	1,356
Unrealized holding gain arising during period, Before-Tax Amount	-158	-251
Unrealized holding gain arising during period, Tax (Expense) or Benefit	55	87
Unrealized holding gain arising during period, Net-of-tax Amount	-103	-164
Less: Reclassification adjustments for (gain) loss included in net income, Before-Tax Amount	149	237
Less: Reclassification adjustments for (gain) loss included in net income, Tax (Expense) or Benefit	-52	-83
Less: Reclassification adjustments for (gain) loss included in net income, Net-of-Tax Amount	97	154
Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments, Before-Tax Amount	502	-79
Net unrealized gain (loss) on cash flow hedging instruments, Tax (Expense) or Benefit	-176	28
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax	326	-51
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax	3,740	-676
Other comprehensive income (loss), Tax (Expense) or Benefit	-6,138	1,971
Other comprehensive income (loss), Net-of-tax Amount	($2,398)	$1,295

Basis_of_Presentation_Details_

Basis of Presentation (Details Textual) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	10.00%	'	10.00%	'	80.90%
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	($4,139)	($4,479)	($5,108)	($6,556)	'
Comprehensive Income [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Accounting Policies [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	'	'	$0	'	'

Basis_of_Presentation_OCI_PL_r

Basis of Presentation OCI PL reclassification (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	$13,964	'	$16,362
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-2,398	1,295	'
Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member]	'	'	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	10,323	'	13,905
othercomprehensiveincomelossbeforereclassificationsnetoftax	-3,582	'	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	0	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-3,582	'	'
Investments [Member]	'	'	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	204	'	263
othercomprehensiveincomelossbeforereclassificationsnetoftax	-103	'	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	-44	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	-59	'	'
Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member]	'	'	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	269	'	-110
othercomprehensiveincomelossbeforereclassificationsnetoftax	326	'	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	-53	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	379	'	'
Net Investment Hedging [Member]	'	'	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	3,168	'	2,304
othercomprehensiveincomelossbeforereclassificationsnetoftax	864	'	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	0	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	864	'	'
Comprehensive Income [Member]	'	'	'
Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items]	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	13,964	'	16,362
othercomprehensiveincomelossbeforereclassificationsnetoftax	-2,495	'	'
Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax	-97	'	'
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	($2,398)	'	'

Recovered_Sheet1

Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations (Details) (USD $)	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]	'	'
Cash	$7,914	'
Accounts receivable, net	149	'
Inventories	21,113	'
Prepaid and other	1,349	'
Deferred tax current	2,517	'
Other current assets	1,166	'
Current assets of discontinued operations	34,208	'
Net plant, property & equipment	18,602	'
Investments	1,177	'
Deferred tax non-current	5,800	'
Intangible assets	2,028	'
Non-current assets of discontinued operations	27,607	'
Total	'61815	'
Accounts payable	5,870	'
Accrued expenses	17,986	'
Income taxes payable	110	'
Current liabilities of discontinued operations	23,966	'
Other liabilities	865	'
Redeemable preferred stock	146,603	143,200
Non-current liabilities of discontinued operations	$147,468	'
Total	'171434	'

Discontinued_Operations_Discon1

Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations Note (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended			9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
redeemable preferred stock shares	38.2		'	38.2		'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent	10.00%		'	10.00%		'	80.90%
discontinued operations Redeemable preferred stock	$143,200,000		'	$143,200,000		'	$146,603,000
Available-for-sale Securities, Amortized Cost Basis	34,851,000	[1]	'	34,851,000	[1]	'	9,070,000	[1]
Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax	119,832,000		0	119,832,000		0	'
Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue	27,900,000		82,400,000	138,900,000		228,300,000	'
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax	-5,500,000		1,500,000	-8,700,000		13,200,000	'
Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation	500,000		700,000	900,000		5,100,000	'
Chief Operating Officer and interm Chief Financial Officer of ViSalus [Member]	'		'	'		'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	2.81%		'	2.81%		'	'
President and Chief Executive Officer [Member]	'		'	'		'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	0.34%		'	0.34%		'	'
Board of Directors Chairman [Member]	'		'	'		'	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	8.29%		'	8.29%		'	'
Investments [Member]	'		'	'		'	'
Loans and Leases Receivable, Gross, Consumer, Revolving, Other	6,000,000		'	6,000,000		'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Fair Value of Amount Outstanding	3,000,000		'	3,000,000		'	'
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End	10.00%		'	10.00%		'	'
Founders [Member]	'		'	'		'	'
Loans and Leases Receivable, Gross, Consumer, Revolving, Other	$6,000,000		'	$6,000,000		'	'
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Financing_Receivables_Details

Financing Receivables (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses [Line Items]	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	$4,570	$2,988	$712
Provision for Other Credit Losses	5,268	4,540	'
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Write-downs	-3,791	-2,277	'
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Recoveries	$105	$13	'

Financing_Receivables_aging_of

Financing Receivables aging of receivables (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due [Line Items]	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Current	$6,597
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Past Due	2,835
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Equal to Greater than 90 Days Past Due	1,550
Financing Receivable, Gross	$10,982

Financing_Receivables_narrativ

Financing Receivables narrative (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
narrative [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Financing Receivable, Recorded Investment, Nonaccrual Status	$15,100,000	$9,900,000	'	'
Financing Receivable, Net	6,400,000	'	5,600,000	'
Financing Receivable, Allowance for Credit Losses, Individually Evaluated for Impairment	4,570,000	'	2,988,000	712,000
Impaired Financing Receivable, Average Recorded Investment	$0.08	$0.22	'	'

Investments_Schedule_Of_Amorti

Investments - Schedule Of Amortized Costs And Fair Value (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'
Cost Basis	$34,851	[1]	$9,070	[1]
Fair Value	34,768		9,055
Accumulated Unrealized Gains Losses On Available For Sale Securities Before Tax	-83		-15
Short-Term Bond Mutual Funds [Member]	'		'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'
Cost Basis	24,000	[1]	8,000
Fair Value	23,917		7,985
Accumulated Unrealized Gains Losses On Available For Sale Securities Before Tax	-83		-15
Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'		'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'
Cost Basis	1,101	[1]	1,070	[1]
Fair Value	1,101		1,070
Other Investment [Member]	'		'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'
Cost Basis	9,750	[1]	0	[1]
Fair Value	$9,750		$0
[1]	{F|ahBzfndlYmZpbGluZ3MtaHJkcmoLEgZYTUxEb2MiXlhCUkxEb2NHZW5JbmZvOmNiYjk4ODJmNTM0ZTRlNzA5NWIxZDcwMDE0NDBkZDkzfFRleHRTZWxlY3Rpb246NzlBQTAzRENCM0E0MzM3MjQ4OTI1QjlEOTc1QzRBOEUM}

Investments_Schedule_Of_Gains_

Investments - Schedule Of Gains And Losses (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net proceeds	$0	$9,585	$4,000	$37,861
Realized gains (losses)	'	($48)	'	($105)

Investments_Narrative_Details

Investments - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'
Fair Value	$34,768,000		$9,055,000
Cost Basis	34,851,000	[1]	9,070,000	[1]
Short Term Bond Mutual Funds [Member]	'		'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'
Fair Value	23,917,000		7,985,000
Cost Basis	24,000,000	[1]	8,000,000
Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'		'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'
Fair Value	1,101,000		1,070,000
Cost Basis	1,101,000	[1]	1,070,000	[1]
Other Investment [Member]	'		'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'
Fair Value	9,750,000		0
Cost Basis	9,750,000	[1]	0	[1]
Mutual Funds [Member]	'		'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'
Fair Value	900,000		1,000,000
Investments [Member]	'		'
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]	'		'
Loans and Leases Receivable, Gross, Consumer, Revolving, Other	6,000,000		'
Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End	10.00%		'
Short-term Non-bank Loans and Notes Payable	$3,000,000		'
[1]	{F|ahBzfndlYmZpbGluZ3MtaHJkcmoLEgZYTUxEb2MiXlhCUkxEb2NHZW5JbmZvOmNiYjk4ODJmNTM0ZTRlNzA5NWIxZDcwMDE0NDBkZDkzfFRleHRTZWxlY3Rpb246NzlBQTAzRENCM0E0MzM3MjQ4OTI1QjlEOTc1QzRBOEUM}

Inventories_Schedule_Of_Compon

Inventories - Schedule Of Components Of Inventory (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Inventory, Net [Abstract]	'	'
Raw materials	$4,221,000	$3,642,000
Finished goods	53,895,000	51,040,000
Total	58,116,000	54,682,000
Inventory reserves	$6,500,000	$5,500,000

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangibles2

Goodwill And Other Intangibles - Schedule Of Other Intangible Assets By Segment (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	($15,345)	'	($15,186)
Other intangibles, ending balance	6,621	'	6,780
Indefinite-Lived Trade Names And Trademarks [Member] | Catalog & Internet Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Line Items]	'	'	'
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	'	'	28,100
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Impairments	'	0	-21,534
Other intangibles, ending balance	6,566	'	6,566
Customer Relationships [Member] | Catalog & Internet Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Line Items]	'	'	'
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	'	'	15,400
Indefinite-lived Intangible Assets [Roll Forward]	'	'	'
Other intangibles, beginning balance	214	'	'
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization	'	'	-15,186
Impairments	'	'	0
Amortization of Intangible Assets	159	500	'
Other intangibles, ending balance	$55	'	$214

Goodwill_And_Other_Intangibles3

Goodwill And Other Intangibles - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Goodwill	$2,298,000	'	$2,298,000
Estimated annual amortization expense for 2013	200,000	'	'
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	6,621,000	'	6,780,000
Direct Selling Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Goodwill	2,300,000	'	2,300,000
Maximum [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated life of the customer lists,years	'12 years	'	'
Minimum [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Estimated life of the customer lists,years	'5 years	'	'
Indefinite-Lived Trade Names And Trademarks [Member] | Catalog & Internet Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Non-cash pre-tax impairment charge	'	0	21,534,000
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	6,566,000	'	6,566,000
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	'	'	28,100,000
Customer Relationships [Member] | Catalog & Internet Segment [Member]	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'
Non-cash pre-tax impairment charge	'	'	0
Intangible Assets, Net (Excluding Goodwill)	55,000	'	214,000
Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets (Excluding Goodwill)	'	'	15,400,000
Amortization of Intangible Assets	$159,000	$500,000	'

Fair_Value_Measurements_Schedu

Fair Value Measurements - Schedule Of Assets And Liabilities Measured At Fair Value On Recurring Basis (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014		Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Total	$26,416		$10,106
Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	1,101		1,070
Short-Term Bond Mutual Funds [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	23,917		7,985
Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'		44
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'		-225
Deferred Compensation Plan Assets [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	918	[1]	1,007	[1]
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Total	24,835		8,992
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	0		0
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Short-Term Bond Mutual Funds [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	23,917		7,985
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'		0
Quoted Prices In Active Markets For Identical Assets (Level 1) [Member] | Deferred Compensation Plan Assets [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	918		1,007	[1]
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Total	1,581		1,114
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	1,101		1,070
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Short-Term Bond Mutual Funds [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	0		0
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'		44
Liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'		-225
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Deferred Compensation Plan Assets [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	0	[1]	0	[1]
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Total	0		0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Certificates of Deposit [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	0		0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Short-Term Bond Mutual Funds [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	0		0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	'		0
Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) [Member] | Deferred Compensation Plan Assets [Member]	'		'
Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Line Items]	'		'
Assets measured at fair value on a recurring basis	$0	[1]	$0	[1]
[1]	Recorded as an Other asset with an offsetting liability for the obligation to its employees in Other liabilities.

Derivatives_and_Other_Financia2

Derivatives and Other Financial Instruments - Schedule Of Fair Value And Location Of Hedges In The Consolidated Balance Sheets (Details) (USD $)	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Accrued Expenses [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Net derivatives at fair value	($181)
Accrued Expenses [Member] | Foreign Exchange Contracts [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Foreign exchange forward contracts in asset positions	44
Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) [Member] | Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]	'
Derivative [Line Items]	'
Derivative Liability, Current	($225)

Derivatives_and_Other_Financia3

Derivatives and Other Financial Instruments - Schedule Of Cash Flow Hedges (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
			Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]	Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]	Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Amount of Loss Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)	'	'	'	$541	($180)
Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from AOCI into Income (Effective Portion)	$76	($42)	($72)	'	($166)

Derivatives_and_Other_Financia4

Derivatives and Other Financial Instruments - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
				Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]	Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts [Member]	Net Investment Hedging [Member]	Net Investment Hedging [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax	$13,964,000	'	$16,362,000	'	'	$3,168,000	$2,304,000
Cumulative net after-tax gain related to net investment hedges	'	'	2,300,000	'	'	'	'
Net after-tax unrealized gain included in accumulated AOCI expected to be transferred	'	'	-100,000	'	'	'	'
Amount of Loss Recognized in AOCI on Derivative (Effective Portion)	'	'	'	541,000	-180,000	'	'
Gain (loss) on fair value hedge derivatives	$200,000	($100,000)	'	'	'	'	'

Accrued_Expenses_Details

Accrued Expenses (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Payables and Accruals [Abstract]	'	'
Compensation and benefits	$9,851	$11,715
Deferred revenue	10,829	9,455
Promotional	5,230	6,874
accrued Inventory	247	633
Accrued Professional Fees, Current	2,170	1,433
Interest Payable, Current	1,569	384
Taxes, other than income	1,488	1,632
Accrued Insurance	1,168	789
Other	6,615	8,016
Total	$39,167	$40,931

LongTerm_Debt_Narrative_Detail

Long-Term Debt - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	8-May-13	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
			Six Point Zero Percent Senior Notes Due On June Fifteen Two Thousand And Seventeen [Member]	Six Point Zero Percent Senior Notes Due On June Fifteen Two Thousand And Seventeen [Member]	Miles Kimball [Member]	Miles Kimball [Member]	Short Term Bond Mutual Funds [Member]	Short Term Bond Mutual Funds [Member]	Certificates of Deposit [Member]	Certificates of Deposit [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Available-for-sale Securities	$34,768,000	$9,055,000	'	'	'	'	$23,917,000	$7,985,000	$1,101,000	$1,070,000
Note issuance date	'	'	10-May-13	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Senior notes issued	'	'	'	50,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'
Redemption Premium	3,000,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Interest Costs Incurred	400,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Interest rate of Senior Notes	'	'	'	6.00%	'	'	'	'	'	'
Long-term debt outstanding	'	'	'	'	5,000,000	5,500,000	'	'	'	'
Long-term debt fixed interest rate	'	'	'	'	7.89%	'	'	'	'	'
Amount available under uncommitted bank facility to be used for letters of credit	2,400,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'
Letters of credit outstanding, amount	$1,100,000	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'	'

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes - Narrative (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]	'	'	'	'
Effective Income Tax Rate, Continuing Operations	30.00%	33.00%	29.00%	33.00%
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)	($4,139)	($4,479)	($5,108)	($6,556)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest	($13,621)	($13,502)	($17,818)	($20,134)

Related_Party_Transactions_Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Millions, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Related Party Transaction, Estimated Cost Of Services To Be Provided For Rlelated Party	$0.80
Operating Leases, Income Statement, Sublease Revenue	0.1
Board of Directors Chairman [Member]	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Common stock outstanding, ownership percentage	36.00%
Founders [Member]	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Loans and Leases Receivable, Gross, Consumer, Revolving, Other	$6
President and Chief Executive Officer [Member]	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	0.34%
Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of ViSalus [Member]	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	2.81%
Board of Directors Chairman [Member]	'
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]	'
Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners	8.29%

Stock_Based_Compensation_Sched

Stock Based Compensation - Schedule Of Restricted Stock And RSUs (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
	Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]	Non-Vested Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Unit Awards(RSUs) [Member]	Non-Vested Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Unit Awards(RSUs) [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense	$100,000	$400,000	$500,000	'	'
Restricted Stock or Unit Expense	300,000	1,100,000	1,400,000	'	'
Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs beginning balance, Shares	'	'	'	100,740	'
Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs beginning balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'	'	'	$24.25	'
Granted, Shares	'	'	'	136,949	'
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted	'	'	'	$9.49	'
Vested, Shares	'	'	'	-69,701	'
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested	'	'	'	$26.64	'
Forfeited, Shares	'	'	'	-103	'
Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited	'	'	'	$37.55	'
Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs ending balance, Shares	'	'	'	167,885	'
Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs ending balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'	'	'	$11.21	'
Nonvested restricted stock and RSUs ending balance, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	'	'	'	1,363,000	1,096,000
Total restricted stock and RSU's ending balance, Shares	'	'	'	239,757	'
Total restricted stock and RSUs ending balance, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value	'	'	'	$17.87	'
Total restricted stock and RSUs at September 30, 2012, Aggregate Intrinsic Value	'	'	'	$1,947,000	'

Stock_Based_Compensation_Sched1

Stock Based Compensation - Schedule Of Stock Options (Details)	Sep. 30, 2013
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]	'
Options Outstanding, Beginning of Period	2,500
Options Outstanding, End of Period	2,500

Stock_Based_Compensation_Narra

Stock Based Compensation - Narrative (Details) (USD $)

9 Months Ended

3 Months Ended

9 Months Ended

In Millions, except Share data, unless otherwise specified

Sep. 30, 2014

Dec. 31, 2013

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2013

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

Sep. 30, 2014

2003 Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]

Stock Options [Member]

Non-Vested Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Unit Awards(RSUs) [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Maximum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Minimum [Member]

Employee Restricted Stock Units(RSUs) [Member]

Non-Employee Restricted Stock Units(RSUs) [Member]

Employee Restricted Stock Units(RSUs) [Member]

Non-Employee Restricted Stock Units(RSUs) [Member]

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Derivatives used in Net Investment Hedge, Net of Tax

'

$2.30

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares authorized

'

'

'

2,040,897

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Shares available for grant

'

'

'

1,570,776

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Minimum number of months nonemployment required for grants on nonqualified stock options to directors

'12 months

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Number of RSUs granted

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

136,949

'

'

'

'

Requisite service period of the award

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'3 years

'

'5 years

'2 years

'2 years

'1 year

Compensation expense

'

'

'

'

0.3

1.1

1.4

'

'

'

'

'

'

Total recognized tax benefit

'

'

'

'

0.1

0.4

0.5

'

'

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$9.49

'

'

'

'

Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$26.64

'

'

'

'

Unearned compensation expense

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

$0.80

'

'

'

'

Weighted average period of unearned compensation expense related to non-vested restricted stock and RSU awards cost is expected to be recognized

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'1 year 11 months 5 days

'

'

'

'

Options outstanding

'

'

2,500

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

'

Earnings_Per_Share_Schedule_Of

Earnings Per Share - Schedule Of Components Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'	'	'	'
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent	$106,173	($8,470)	$98,972	($7,232)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share	($0.59)	($0.57)	($0.80)	($0.85)
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share	($0.59)	($0.57)	($0.80)	($0.85)
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share	$7.16	$0.04	$6.93	$0.40
Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share	$7.17	$0.04	$6.95	$0.40
Earnings Per Share, Diluted	$6.57	($0.53)	$6.13	($0.45)
Weighted average number outstanding, common shares	16,055	16,013	16,041	16,182
Vested restricted stock units	71	58	64	55
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, basic	16,126	16,071	16,105	16,237
Dilutive effect of stock options and non-vested restricted share units	42	0	47	0
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding, diluted	16,168	16,071	16,152	16,237
Basic earnings (loss) per share:	'	'	'	'
Net earnings (loss) attributable per share of Blyth, Inc. common stock	$6.58	($0.53)	$6.15	($0.45)

Earnings_Per_Share_Narrative_D

Earnings Per Share - Narrative (Details)	Sep. 30, 2013
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]	'
Options outstanding	2,500

Treasury_And_Common_Stock_Sche

Treasury And Common Stock - Schedule Of Treasury Stock (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended				12 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014		Sep. 30, 2013		Dec. 31, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
					Excluding Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member]	Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member]	Long-Term Incentive Plan [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]	'		'		'	'	'
Treasury Stock, Beginning Balance, Amount	($452,040)		($441,774)		'	($452,040)	'
Treasury stock purchases	-126	[1]	-10,266	[1]	-9,961	-126	-305
Treasury Stock, Ending Balance, Amount	($452,166)		'		'	'	($452,040)
Treasury Stock, Shares, Beginning Balance	10,557,342		9,944,239		'	10,557,342	'
Treasury stock purchased in connection with long-term incentive plan, Shares	'		'		594,582	14,077	18,521
Treasury Stock, Shares, Ending Balance	10,571,419		'		'	'	10,557,342
[1]	This includes shares withheld in order to satisfy employee withholding taxes upon the distribution of vested restricted stock units.

Treasury_And_Common_Stock_Sche1

Treasury And Common Stock - Schedule Of Common Stock (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Beginning balance, Shares	26,574,031	26,505,210
Beginning balance, Amount	$532	$530
Common stock issued in connection with long-term incentive plan, Shares	55,719	68,821
Common stock issued in connection with long-term incentive plan, Amount	'	2
Ending balance, Shares	26,629,750	26,574,031
Ending balance, Amount	533	532
Common Stock	'	'
Common stock issued in connection with long-term incentive plan, Amount	$1	'

Segment_Information_Schedule_O

Segment Information - Schedule Of Net Sales And Operating Profit By Segment (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2013	Dec. 31, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	$90,752	$97,029	$313,224	$336,024	'
Operating profit (loss)	-11,422	-11,548	-13,690	-16,022	'
Earnings (loss) from continuing operations	-13,621	-13,502	-17,818	-20,134	'
Identifiable Assets	282,686	'	282,686	'	366,841
Candles & Home Decor [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	60,728	67,525	214,332	236,282	'
Operating profit (loss)	-10,602	-10,845	-10,540	-11,091	'
Identifiable Assets	161,988	'	161,988	'	175,900
Catalog & Internet [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Net sales	30,024	29,504	98,892	99,742	'
Operating profit (loss)	-820	-703	-3,150	-4,931	'
Identifiable Assets	50,501	'	50,501	'	50,880
Unallocated Corporate [Member]	'	'	'	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'	'	'	'
Operating profit (loss)	-2,199	-1,954	-4,128	-4,112	'
Identifiable Assets	$70,197	'	$70,197	'	$140,061

Segment_Information_identifiab

Segment Information identifiable assets (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Identifiable Assets	$282,686	$366,841
Candles & Home Decor [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Identifiable Assets	161,988	175,900
Catalog & Internet [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Identifiable Assets	50,501	50,880
Unallocated Corporate [Member]	'	'
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]	'	'
Identifiable Assets	$70,197	$140,061