Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Crafting for Profit, pt3: Where are you selling it?

Where you sell your crafts is just as important as what you're making. You have to decide whether you want to sit at a show all day, work on a website or leave your crafts in someone else's hands. They all come with advantages and disadvantages, you just have to decide what works best for you.


Let's start with the craft shows. Craft shows are wonderful places to network. You can find out about other crafts shows in the area and mingle with other artists. This is also a great place to establish a customer base and get feedback on your creations. The drawback is that you have to pack up your stuff, unload it, display it, pack it back up and take it home. It's a lot of work but if you are up to the challenge, try one out. Look for them in in local paper ads, churches, schools,
villages and online.


If you don't have time for a craft show, try selling online. There are easy to use sites, such as Artfire and Etsy where you can upload your pictures, fill out the descriptions and make contact with buyers. Selling online is a time consuming task and your presentation is just as important online as it is at a show, but you don't have to worry about lugging your belongings everywhere.

You may want to also consider selling at stores or consignment shops. Check out the store and ask about their rules and policies. There should be a clear contract and pay period. If there is not, reconsider your options. You don't want to be in a store that cannot clearly tell you when they cut checks. Oce you are in a store that you are comfortable with, keep the space stocked with new and seasonally appropriate items. Getting into a store gives you daily exposure without the need to haul your creations from one location to another.


And for my last bit of advice on where to sell, don't forget to network with friends, family and co-workers, always when it is appropriate, of course. Home parties and business organizations are great places to network and establish clientele.

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