Starting
Your Craft Business: The Basics
What makes you decide to start a craft business?
- Coworkers and friends start buying the pieces you make
- A class or workshop introduces a wonderful craft.
- A lifetime of crafting starts taking over your life.
However this happens, chances are the craft itself is the dominant
force in this decision. But the word "Business" (in Your Craft Business) is equally
important and will make the difference between success and failure.
Before you get started in your craft business, do some reflecting.
Get a clear idea of the types of products you want to sell, and what
you think people will be willing to pay for them.
Then research craft show opportunities. Start small, and
start locally. Check out crafts fairs sponsored by local Arts
and Park Commissions, churches and synagogues, non-profit
organizations and schools. Your local craft and bead stores
may know of craft shows, as well. Search
Festival Network Online, a complete database of craft shows and festivals by state.
Read books on the craft
business like The Handmade Marketplace: How to Sell Your Crafts Locally, Globally,
and On-Line or Secrets Of The Craft Show Business
Set some business goals. How much are you willing to spend for a table
or booth? How much money do you want to make? Is it important that you
make a profit or just break even at your first craft show(s)?
Your first show can help you set strategies for getting repeat
business, building your mailing list, or just learning the
ropes!
| 
