What crafter wouldn't like to know the "secret" to finding the crafts that sell? Especially the ones that sell most often, and for the highest dollar. It is a common question, and one that certainly cannot be answered easily. A number of factors will determine the success of your craft on the craft show circuit.
If you can imagine craft shows all across the country, you could probably imagine several different types of crafts at each show. This is just one reason why it is difficult to pinpoint the craft that will be successful in your area. But, if you want to sell crafts for a profit, then you are going to have to figure out which type of craft is already popular.
Go to craft shows and see what is selling Ask around at craft stores to find out what is really popular right now Find a niche for something that ISN'T offered at your local craft shows.
The first point is probably the easiest to do, because if you already like crafts, then chances are you don't mind going to the craft shows. Besides, it is always important to check out the competition before you even start your crafting business. Don't be afraid to ask questions of the retailer when you are out there. They may or may not be willing to answer some - but if you phrase them out of interest rather than fact finding you may have better luck.
Once again, if you are a crafter, you likely head to the local craft store on a regular basis, and you can gather a lot of information here as well. Ask the people at the checkout counter what has been moving really quick, or casually notice what other people are carrying out of the store. Make regular visits and you will see for yourself what moves in the stores, as they rotate their goods and change their displays.
The third point is high-risk, high reward. If you find a niche at the local craft shows, that doesn't necessarily mean that you are going to have the next hot-selling craft. With new products it is often hit and miss - with miss being more often. But, niche crafts - especially if they take advantage of other hot trends - can be very profitable. As it is in any business, those who stay on top of their market usually end up making more money and are more successful in the end.
Here are a few tips for creating a profitable craft:
• Find something functional. Most people would like to get some use (however limited it might be) out of a craft they see.
• Create something that is unique to your area - something that people can only get if they come to your region. This appeals to tourists and others just passing through and going to the craft show.
• Crafts that will make good gifts for others. Practical items are also excellent for this purpose as well.
Rarely is there a sure thing in crafts. But, you can take much of the guesswork out of finding the most profitable craft in your area with a little research.
Still, across the craft show world, some of the top craft show experts believe that the following craft areas are perennial best-sellers: In no particular order -
• Personal items (soaps, body lotion bars)
• Entertaining items (wine charms, coasters, place cards)
• Practical crafts (bread baskets, candles, placemats, anything people can put to use!)
If you can find something in these areas, I would say that you stand a much greater chance of selling your craft - and for top dollar - at your local craft shows!
Natalie Goyette shows you how to make your craft show business profitable in her best selling ebook: Craft Show Book
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