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Post by chaosisapony on Dec 4, 2023 0:21:51 GMT
I'm nervous but super excited. Mostly I have convinced myself that I won't sell anything so I think I'll be happy if I actually do sell something. My aunts are coming up for the weekend and we are splitting two booths since I don't have enough stuff for my own booth. I need to set up a sign with my Venmo info, get price labels and care cards made, and find some type of bag/packaging if people do purchase something. If nothing else it's been really fun making all of the stuff! I have tumblers, Christmas ornaments, pens, and soap dispensers to sell. Drop your best craft fair tips and tricks if you'd like!    |
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Post by dewryce on Dec 4, 2023 0:39:20 GMT
Those soap dispensers are so fun! I have no experience but wanted to wish you good luck.
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Post by shescrafty on Dec 4, 2023 0:49:33 GMT
I think your items look great-good luck!
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seaexplore
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,878
Apr 25, 2015 23:57:30 GMT
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Post by seaexplore on Dec 4, 2023 1:14:19 GMT
Good luck! I've never done a craft fair- too much work for me since I teach full time and most of the craft fairs are during Nov/Dec and those are busy months for me in the classroom and at home. These are all things my friends who do fairs say....
I've heard to have things on "levels".
Have some cheap stuff to get the kids in there and the people looking for stocking stuffers.
Do a sign with your Venmo/paypal/whatever QR code.
Business cards are a must for people who want to have you do custom stuff.
Get out from behind the table and talk with people.
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Post by crazy4scraps on Dec 4, 2023 1:32:42 GMT
Sending you tons of luck for lots of sales! That Grinch soap dispenser is awesome!
My tip is to make a checklist of all the stuff you have to bring so you will remember to bring everything back home when you pack up. I usually would store all of my “office” stuff in one tote so I would be less likely to forget things I needed, and then I would use that tote under my table for extra storage space that’s more accessible than having things on the floor or ground.
I’d bring things such as extra cash register tape (if you’re using a register), cash box (if you’re using one), calculator, pens (ballpoint pens and Sharpies if you need to make a quick sign), a few pieces of cardstock for making signs, change in separated ziplock baggies and a bank bag, 25’ extension cord, zip ties, Scotch tape, packing tape, duct tape (it’s amazing how many times I needed all of those kinds of tape for different reasons), clip on lights, large binder clips, table coverings, pricing gun and extra labels (if you’re using one, it’s way faster than printing or handwriting individual price stickers), a chart for sales tax, maybe a receipt book to hand write receipts if the internet is spotty or you don’t have power in your booth, customer bags in a few sizes and either tissue paper or newsprint for wrapping up breakable items, I’m sure I’m forgetting things because it’s been a few years.
ETA: If you’re using a cash register, make sure to program in the sales tax rates the night before, and make sure the backup batteries inside are good so you don’t have to do it all over again when you’re at the venue. Also bring along the register manual in case you do have to program it when you’re there! Been there, done that, ugh.
If you’re trying to build an email list, plan for a way to capture that information either through your payment portal or you can offer a door prize drawing and collect the information on paper sign up slips. I would also make a sign with a QR code going to your website, Facebook or Instagram, whatever socials you use, so people can easily connect with you in those ways too.
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Post by chaosisapony on Dec 4, 2023 1:34:36 GMT
Good luck! I've never done a craft fair- too much work for me since I teach full time and most of the craft fairs are during Nov/Dec and those are busy months for me in the classroom and at home. These are all things my friends who do fairs say.... I've heard to have things on "levels". Have some cheap stuff to get the kids in there and the people looking for stocking stuffers. Do a sign with your Venmo/paypal/whatever QR code. Business cards are a must for people who want to have you do custom stuff. Get out from behind the table and talk with people. Thanks for the tips! I agree, it has been a lot of work but I'm struggling with filling my evenings now that it gets dark so early. So it's been nice to have things to work on and getting creative in the evenings after work. I also refuse to stress out about getting certain things done. None of my items are perfect and they will be priced accordingly. I'm not planning on having business cards or contact info available since I have no intention of taking custom orders. This is strictly a hobby that I want to do just when I feel like it. Hopefully that won't turn people off. |
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Post by chaosisapony on Dec 4, 2023 1:43:03 GMT
crazy4scraps Great tips! I was thinking having a tote type organization might make things easier to stay organized. The good thing about this craft fair is that it is only a 1/2 mile from my house so at least if I forget something I can easily run home and grab it.
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Post by Spongemom Scrappants on Dec 4, 2023 1:48:33 GMT
I haven't sold at a craft fair, but I've been a customer. The main thing I'd mention is having clearly visible prices on each item. I always hate having to ask over and over, "How much is it?"
And, good luck!
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Post by crazy4scraps on Dec 4, 2023 2:04:03 GMT
crazy4scraps Great tips! I was thinking having a tote type organization might make things easier to stay organized. The good thing about this craft fair is that it is only a 1/2 mile from my house so at least if I forget something I can easily run home and grab it. That will make it easier, but you will probably be racing around trying to do ten last minute things at once and won’t have time to run home. Ask me how I know, LOL. |
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Post by Zee on Dec 4, 2023 2:08:49 GMT
I've been doing them all year and have just one more before taking a hiatus.
It's been A LOT of work for minimal pay if you factor in all my time spent, but it's a fun hobby, great learning experience, and has been a nice project for me and my DH to do together.
You probably won't need to worry about payment methods for one craft show, but if you like the experience and plan to do it full time, you'll definitely want to get a card reader.
I use the Square reader that has chip/tap and pay. At some events that's pretty much the only way I get paid; at others, there is more cash used. Venmo does ok. A few like CashApp. No one has ever asked me to use PayPal, though I have it.
Have your prices clearly marked. If you're not going to do business cards, you should at least have some sort of contact info on the product or clearly visible on a sign in case anyone wants to follow up or has an issue. I have a QR code with my IG and business cards with my other info.
Almost no one cares about receipts and I'm not giving them unless someone asks for one and they paid via Square. I do not use a cash register. I factor in sales tax into my prices so I don't need to worry about making the change or figuring sales tax separately. I doubt this will be a worry for you this late in the year unless you've been selling on other platforms or have more than $600 worth of product and sales. You are allowed *I THINK* $600/year in sales before you have to report it and pay tax. (Please Google and check me on that, I've been paying tax all year and don't remember the personal limit)
Best of luck, try not to be shy--I definitely struggled at first to put myself out there and talk up my products! I have met so many nice people, both customers and fellow vendors! You might make contacts that could lead to this being a fun little money maker 🙂
A final note to consider: be careful when selling unlicensed products. No one really cares enough to report someone at a craft fair, but you do have to use a little caution if selling online. I love your Grinch soap dispenser, it's so cute and I bet will sell really well this time of year!
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seaexplore
Prolific Pea
Posts: 8,878
Apr 25, 2015 23:57:30 GMT
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Post by seaexplore on Dec 4, 2023 2:47:14 GMT
Good luck! I've never done a craft fair- too much work for me since I teach full time and most of the craft fairs are during Nov/Dec and those are busy months for me in the classroom and at home. These are all things my friends who do fairs say.... I've heard to have things on "levels". Have some cheap stuff to get the kids in there and the people looking for stocking stuffers. Do a sign with your Venmo/paypal/whatever QR code. Business cards are a must for people who want to have you do custom stuff. Get out from behind the table and talk with people. Thanks for the tips! I agree, it has been a lot of work but I'm struggling with filling my evenings now that it gets dark so early. So it's been nice to have things to work on and getting creative in the evenings after work. I also refuse to stress out about getting certain things done. None of my items are perfect and they will be priced accordingly. I'm not planning on having business cards or contact info available since I have no intention of taking custom orders. This is strictly a hobby that I want to do just when I feel like it. Hopefully that won't turn people off. I get the hobby thing- my stuff is mostly custom actually just because it's a hobby for me. LOL. I do stuff made to order but it's all word of mouth. I don't really advertise other than sharing my stuff online on my own Facebook. |
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Post by shescrafty on Dec 4, 2023 2:53:32 GMT
I would bring little puck lights or holiday lights. I think having a well lit booth is important to draw people in. I second the poster who said have prices marked easily in your products.  |
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bethany102399
Pearl Clutcher
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Post by bethany102399 on Dec 4, 2023 3:00:41 GMT
if that grinch dispenser doesn't sell I will buy it off you in a hot minute. Same with the sprucy mug but I just want one with the trees. Good luck!
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Post by calgaryscrapper on Dec 4, 2023 3:14:20 GMT
I like when I can take a business card and contact people later. I liked something at a craft fair then contacted the person running the event and she gave me the gals web site. I contacted her then saw online her future craft fairs and purchased from her booth at a fair on the weekend. I agree with others to step out from your booth, have change on hand. Leave your purse at home and driver’s license in the car. Wear a Fanny pack for your cash or guard your purse as people might distract you. Post about the sale online to draw attention to it.
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Post by quietgirl on Dec 4, 2023 3:23:13 GMT
That's so exciting! Your stuff looks great! Good luck!
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Post by Zee on Dec 4, 2023 3:48:38 GMT
I like when I can take a business card and contact people later. I liked something at a craft fair then contacted the person running the event and she gave me the gals web site. I contacted her then saw online her future craft fairs and purchased from her booth at a fair on the weekend. I agree with others to step out from your booth, have change on hand. Leave your purse at home and driver’s license in the car. Wear a Fanny pack for your cash or guard your purse as people might distract you. Post about the sale online to draw attention to it. I wouldn't leave anything in my car, your DL is a lot safer on your body. |
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Post by chaosisapony on Dec 5, 2023 3:35:12 GMT
I found out today there are going to be 20 vendors. Which for my little town surprises me. There's a wine tour coming through to visit several local vineyards right during the same hours of the craft fair so hopefully that will bring some visitors to us that want to spend. I've been doing them all year and have just one more before taking a hiatus. It's been A LOT of work for minimal pay if you factor in all my time spent, but it's a fun hobby, great learning experience, and has been a nice project for me and my DH to do together. You probably won't need to worry about payment methods for one craft show, but if you like the experience and plan to do it full time, you'll definitely want to get a card reader. I use the Square reader that has chip/tap and pay. At some events that's pretty much the only way I get paid; at others, there is more cash used. Venmo does ok. A few like CashApp. No one has ever asked me to use PayPal, though I have it. Have your prices clearly marked. If you're not going to do business cards, you should at least have some sort of contact info on the product or clearly visible on a sign in case anyone wants to follow up or has an issue. I have a QR code with my IG and business cards with my other info. Almost no one cares about receipts and I'm not giving them unless someone asks for one and they paid via Square. I do not use a cash register. I factor in sales tax into my prices so I don't need to worry about making the change or figuring sales tax separately. I doubt this will be a worry for you this late in the year unless you've been selling on other platforms or have more than $600 worth of product and sales. You are allowed *I THINK* $600/year in sales before you have to report it and pay tax. (Please Google and check me on that, I've been paying tax all year and don't remember the personal limit) Best of luck, try not to be shy--I definitely struggled at first to put myself out there and talk up my products! I have met so many nice people, both customers and fellow vendors! You might make contacts that could lead to this being a fun little money maker 🙂 A final note to consider: be careful when selling unlicensed products. No one really cares enough to report someone at a craft fair, but you do have to use a little caution if selling online. I love your Grinch soap dispenser, it's so cute and I bet will sell really well this time of year! Thank you for your advice! I'm pretty good at making small talk with shoppers, a leftover skill from years spent in retail. Good point about the licensed images. That is not something that really occurred to me since I've just been making things for myself up to this point. I will steer clear of those from this point on. |
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Post by Zee on Dec 5, 2023 3:58:45 GMT
I found out today there are going to be 20 vendors. Which for my little town surprises me. There's a wine tour coming through to visit several local vineyards right during the same hours of the craft fair so hopefully that will bring some visitors to us that want to spend. I've been doing them all year and have just one more before taking a hiatus. It's been A LOT of work for minimal pay if you factor in all my time spent, but it's a fun hobby, great learning experience, and has been a nice project for me and my DH to do together. You probably won't need to worry about payment methods for one craft show, but if you like the experience and plan to do it full time, you'll definitely want to get a card reader. I use the Square reader that has chip/tap and pay. At some events that's pretty much the only way I get paid; at others, there is more cash used. Venmo does ok. A few like CashApp. No one has ever asked me to use PayPal, though I have it. Have your prices clearly marked. If you're not going to do business cards, you should at least have some sort of contact info on the product or clearly visible on a sign in case anyone wants to follow up or has an issue. I have a QR code with my IG and business cards with my other info. Almost no one cares about receipts and I'm not giving them unless someone asks for one and they paid via Square. I do not use a cash register. I factor in sales tax into my prices so I don't need to worry about making the change or figuring sales tax separately. I doubt this will be a worry for you this late in the year unless you've been selling on other platforms or have more than $600 worth of product and sales. You are allowed *I THINK* $600/year in sales before you have to report it and pay tax. (Please Google and check me on that, I've been paying tax all year and don't remember the personal limit) Best of luck, try not to be shy--I definitely struggled at first to put myself out there and talk up my products! I have met so many nice people, both customers and fellow vendors! You might make contacts that could lead to this being a fun little money maker 🙂 A final note to consider: be careful when selling unlicensed products. No one really cares enough to report someone at a craft fair, but you do have to use a little caution if selling online. I love your Grinch soap dispenser, it's so cute and I bet will sell really well this time of year! Thank you for your advice! I'm pretty good at making small talk with shoppers, a leftover skill from years spent in retail. Good point about the licensed images. That is not something that really occurred to me since I've just been making things for myself up to this point. I will steer clear of those from this point on. Please know I wasn't being critical of you, your products are adorable and lots of crafters sell Grinch stuff this time of year! I would just be careful if you're selling online too. Good luck, I hope you sell out! ❤️ |
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Post by katieanna on Dec 6, 2023 13:45:19 GMT
Chaosisapony, what cute items! Like you, I enjoy crafting for craft shows as a hobby. I've been doing it for several years - handmade cards, painted items and crocheted items mostly. I had 4 shows in a row since the 2nd weekend in November; this past Saturday was my last one. It is a lot of work, but if you love what you do, like I do, it's worth it. I go to local craft shows held at churches and fire halls. It certainly isn't "big money" by any stretch of the imagination, but I feel if I can make my table money and then some back, I'm happy. Lots of good advice above, especially good lighting and an attractive display. I used to be shy about talking to people, too, but talking about what you love to do will get you out of that. I used to use a cash box (no register) but that proved to be too cumbersome. I wear a fanny pack now and it's a lot easier. Have fun at your show - and good luck! Let us know how you do.
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Post by KikiPea on Dec 6, 2023 14:32:30 GMT
A final note to consider: be careful when selling unlicensed products. No one really cares enough to report someone at a craft fair, but you do have to use a little caution if selling online. I love your Grinch soap dispenser, it's so cute and I bet will sell really well this time of year! Yes, this. Grinch is a highly popular character, but it is copyright and trademark protected. I know there are people from this companies that visit craft fairs at times to check them out. (They actually do, believe it or not.) Online is the most monitored, though, and I have had aquantences have their shops shut down for having licensed products. Etsy will suspend a store, or take down listings if they see them, Have fun, and sell a lot! Just be aware. I make polymer clay jewelry, and won’t make any licensed images. I do have a pair of Grinch earrings, but I made them for personal use. |
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anniebeth24
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,778
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Post by anniebeth24 on Dec 6, 2023 16:37:32 GMT
My dad is a stained glass artist and he pays a lot of money to a local university for rights to their logos. He has been questioned several times by their "investigators" but mainly at his gift shop displays and not at temporary craft markets.
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peaname
Pearl Clutcher
Posts: 3,390
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Post by peaname on Dec 6, 2023 16:44:15 GMT
Your stuff is so cute I’m sure you will do well! I hope you have fun.
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Post by workingclassdog on Dec 6, 2023 17:00:49 GMT
I just went to a craft show last weekend. There were no less than five - ten people selling the same kind of tumblers. There are a lot of vendors at this fair.. maybe 100 or 120. Before I opened this thread the tumblers was the first thing that popped in my mind. Hopefully you won't have that kind of competition. Good luck!
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Post by chaosisapony on Dec 10, 2023 3:17:36 GMT
Day 1 is over. I only sold 1 item so that was kind of a bummer. Most of the vendors there said sales were not good and we think the lack of WiFi is a big part of it. Since there's no cell service we have to be cash only. Most folks came with cash but they were definitely not spending it freely.
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Post by ntsf on Dec 10, 2023 3:52:18 GMT
can you use the hotspot on your phone for wifi? just an idea...
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Post by Zee on Dec 10, 2023 3:57:51 GMT
Day 1 is over. I only sold 1 item so that was kind of a bummer. Most of the vendors there said sales were not good and we think the lack of WiFi is a big part of it. Since there's no cell service we have to be cash only. Most folks came with cash but they were definitely not spending it freely. No cell at all, or just no Wi-Fi? Because you can still process cards with data on your phone, Wi-Fi not needed. But you would have to have a signal. I've never been at an event without signal at all but I'm sure there are some rural areas still that makes it tough, up in the mountains sometimes when we're hiking there are places without any signal. I'm so sorry it was a bummer for you  Maybe tomorrow will be better! |
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Post by chaosisapony on Dec 10, 2023 5:47:32 GMT
Day 1 is over. I only sold 1 item so that was kind of a bummer. Most of the vendors there said sales were not good and we think the lack of WiFi is a big part of it. Since there's no cell service we have to be cash only. Most folks came with cash but they were definitely not spending it freely. No cell at all, or just no Wi-Fi? Because you can still process cards with data on your phone, Wi-Fi not needed. But you would have to have a signal. I've never been at an event without signal at all but I'm sure there are some rural areas still that makes it tough, up in the mountains sometimes when we're hiking there are places without any signal. I'm so sorry it was a bummer for you Maybe tomorrow will be better! None at all. You can't even make a call or text. My community has a lot of dead zones. It's unfortunate. |
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Post by calgaryscrapper on Dec 10, 2023 7:45:09 GMT
A couple of small craft fairs came across my Facebook feed this week so we went to them. At this time of the month we have most of our Christmas shopping done but picked up a gift for a birthday in January. Maybe put a couple of pictures of your items up on your local Facebook group and mention no internet access and cash please.
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Post by welshjenni on Dec 10, 2023 12:26:28 GMT
I hope you have better luck today. It’s so disappointing when sales are low
Everyone likes a bargain so you could offer a small discount if people bought say three of an item.
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Post by quinlove on Dec 10, 2023 14:20:50 GMT
* Get in loser, we’re saving Christmas. * So cute. 😊
Good luck today. Your items are adorable. ❤️💚
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