Arts and Crafts Shows
From LoveToKnow Crafts
Arts and crafts shows provide a chance for creative people to showcase their goods for shoppers interested in purchasing handmade items.
About Craft Shows
Arts and crafts shows, sometimes referred to as craft shows or craft fairs, are events in which local crafters get together to sell their merchandise to the general public. In smaller communities, these events are usually held during the fall as people begin their search for unique Christmas gifts. In larger areas, however, there are often several shows throughout the year. Parking lots, convention centers, and school gyms are the most common locations for craft shows, although outdoor events may be held if the weather permits.
Some of the items commonly found at craft shows include:
- Beaded jewelry
- Scented candles
- Greeting cards
- Holiday home décor items
- Quilts
- Knitted hats and scarves
- Handmade toys for children
Many people like to visit arts and crafts shows as a source of creative inspiration for their own projects. To protect the rights of the exhibitors, however, most shows have strict regulations that prevent photography, videotaping, and/or note taking.
Arts and crafts shows are sometimes confused with art shows, although these two events are not the same. Generally, an art show is an event that allows for the display of paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Prices are usually awarded to the top exhibitors and not all items may be available for purchase.
Selling at Arts and Crafts Shows
If you're interested in turning your passion for crafting into a home-based business, selling at arts and crafts shows can be a wonderful opportunity. However, there are several factors you should consider before signing up for your first show. For example:
- Are my items unique? To be successful at an arts and crafts show, you need to have a product that will attract some attention. Holiday décor items are always popular, but if you're one of four crafters selling snowman wreaths, you're going to have a difficult job ahead of you.
- Are my prices affordable? Setting a price for your handmade items is a very tricky task. You want to earn a profit, but you also need to remain competitive. If the other crafters in your area are pricing their merchandise too low, you'll find it difficult to make many sales.
- Do I enjoy working in a hectic, fast-paced environment? Shows can be very busy at times, which can be difficult to take if you're naturally a shy and reserved person.
- Am I willing to spend a lot of time traveling in exchange for the chance to sell my products? Most areas only have a limited number of shows, so travel is an important part of success if you wish to build a strong business.
- Can I afford the start-up costs? There is usually an exhibitor's fee to participate in a craft show. You will also need tables for your display, business cards with your contact information, and packaging supplies.
Talking to people in your area who have been successful selling merchandise at craft shows is a great idea if you're considering becoming an exhibitor. As long as you're not planning to sell the exact same items, most crafters will be happy to share their knowledge and answer your questions. They will be able to offer very specific tips regarding issues such as what items are most popular and how to set up your display to attract customers.
Online message boards devoted to craft-related topics are also a great resource for learning about what it's like to start a craft business. Most boards have several members with experience in this area.
Additional Information
To learn more about how to earn extra money selling at craft shows, check out the following helpful resources:
- How to Sell at Craft Fairs and Shows
- How Do I Sell at Craft Shows?
- Holiday Craft Show Hints
- Copyrights, Trademarks, and Patents for Selling at Craft Shows
Learn More
This page has been accessed 1,432 times. This page was last modified 14:22, 5 November 2008.
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