Is it worth it to be a craft show vendor? Best and Worst Sellers - First Time Seller Series 2021
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- čas přidán 29. 06. 2024
- This is the final installment of my first craft show video series. I will share some closing thoughts as well as my sales total and the best and worst sellers. If you have ever thought about selling your handmade items at a craft fair check out my series for some insights into what it is like to get ready for and attend your first craft show.
Hello and welcome to the Upcycle Design Lab my name is Cindy. I craft with recycled, repurposed, and unwanted materials. There is a lot of experimenting with trash and recyclables that happens in the lab. And my intentions to make old items "new" again sometimes turn out better than others but there is always something learned.
If you enjoy reusing repairing and re-imagining old items, I hope you will stick around and check out some of my other videos and join those of us who are rethinking the things we throw away.
▶️ Visit my store - www.ebay.com/str/clotheslinea...
▶️ Check out my favorite craft supplies in my amazon store.
www.amazon.com/shop/upcyclede...
If you would like more upcycling craft ideas please visit upcycledesignlab.com/
Other Video's in this Series
Craft Show Vendor Application - www.youtube.com/watch?v=FiwjC...
Product Photography for Beginners - Budget-Friendly Tips for Crafters - www.youtube.com/watch?v=CPsoH...
How to Calculate and Price Inventory - www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3DTH...
Taking Payment, Sales Tax, and Booth Expenses www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vGf-...
My Craft Show Booth Mock-up - www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZkD6y...
Live from the Recycle Santa Fe Art Festival - • Recycle Santa Fe Art F...
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Shop my Amazon store for all of my favorite craft supplies www.amazon.com/shop/upcyclede...
Project tutorials
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Watch Face Earrings - • Simple Watch Face Earr...
Dragonflies - • Dragonfly Christmas Or...
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Watch Parts Bracelets - • DIY Picture Charm Brac...
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Big Hoop Earrings - • Draft Top Can Opener C...
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Propagation Wall Hangers - • Upcycled Hanging Plant...
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![[ MY FIRST CRAFT SHOW! ] & WHAT I LEARNED!](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/FOOW0BMVI8M/mqdefault.jpg)
I tried selling my jewelry and tie dye in a handful of venues - it was the worst experience of my life, for so many reasons. Not the least of which was people telling me "I can get something like this cheaper at Walmart!" I also lost my shirt financially - supplies, labor and the cost to go (in gas and time), set up, eat, etc. I never came close to making anything, let alone a profit. I didn't enjoy it at all - it was very stressful before, during and after. I decided crafting needs to be a hobby, not a business. It is therapy and relaxation for me and my depression and anxiety - my time "in the booth" was neither of those things. My family and friends are always saying I should sell my stuff, but I only do that now if someone I love specifically asks me to make something for them for themselves or as gifts. Otherwise, I make them for me or to give as gifts.
Hi Connie - I understand what you are saying. My experience was definitely stressful but thankfully there were a lot of good things about it as well. I am sorry that people were unkind to you as well. The people at my craft show were all very polite and friendly but I have received a fair bit of criticism about my projects in comments on my videos and it doesn't feel good. It sounds to me like you know where you stand and I would never want anyone to lose the joy of crafting in pursuit of money. Thanks for watching and sharing your experience.
I think you could look at teaching your craft to others, either in person or online. I think popular teachers make more than just selling their work. Of course, you would want to give tutorials on completed pieces…as well as craft techniques…
did you try selling on Etsy ?
Hi Connie
I’m a DIYer and recycle and up cycle jewelry. I’ve been to 3 craft show and have done alright. One thing I go into the show with the attitude that not everyone will like my stuff. People who do, will pay for it. I do talk a lot and share why and how I make my jewelry. Some people will appreciate it, some won’t. Don’t focus on those ones. Just keep going and enjoy making it. Don’t lose hope! Keep going! ❤
i did a few craft shows in my younger years! it was an ok experience. the thing i learned was to have a 'grab your attention' priced item. at the events i went to, small town seasonal type events, $5 seemed to be the number. if you have a selection of $5 items, it grabs the attention and people will wander over. once people are there, other people need to come over and see what the fuss is about. if you have any kid friendly items, promote that as well because the kids bring their parents with them.
the last sale i did i made sure to stand outside my booth and smiled and nodded at people and asked general questions like 'have you seen anything interesting at the show today' etc. i am not a talk to random strangers type person. this was difficult for me.
is possible to have a little show and tell on how you make your items?
for the tie dye you could show people how you use the elastics to bunch up the shirts. the different ways you need to bunch it up to get different designs. you would not be giving away trade secrets, but instead you would be engaging people and if their interest is peaked, perhaps they would buy something.
for the jewelry perhaps you could have a few supplies and show how to put together a basic necklace or how to attach a loop to the top of a stone. or explain what stones are the most popular and what meaning they might have...
even if it doesn't increase your sales, it gives you something to do with your time there, helps you make contacts and spreads the word.. having one of the people you talked to telling their friend 'i met this really great person who sells jewelry and i can give you the number if you want to look at the items'.
i don't have much knowledge of either of your crafts so my examples might be off in the details. but i think you get the idea.
i never made back the cost of the table. as a crafter/quilter i am well aware that you make the craft because you love it and you get something rewarding out of it and you sell it to cover your costs and then a bit. if you are looking to get full wages for the hours you put into your work, i'm thinking craft shows might not be the right market.
i decided to stop the craft shows because of the cost of the tables. even if i did make back the cost of the table, there would still be no profit for me.
plus i work weekends so added to that i had lost wages.
craft shows were definitely not for me.
i sell to friends, co workers, word of mouth and that keeps me busy enough as i work full time.
good luck to you! i hope you find what works for you and most importantly.... keep on crafting!
My advice to newbies is to never make a decision based on your first show. Some shows you will sell nothing, some shows you will sell out. I always love doing shows alone, but I raised 6 kids and taught pre-k so I crave alone time 😂 Thanks for sharing and inspiring us with your creative ideas!
Thanks for watching and for sharing your experience. 🙂
Totally agree with this sentiment.
My dad used to get frustrated selling his art, people only want food he’d say, I sell sell paintings and corn dogs then! It’s gotta be hard and emotional too when you put your heart into everything you make, I love your creativity
HI thanks for watching and commenting. I don't have a lot of experience but it does seem like it is a bit of a roller-coaster ride.
Absolutely agree with your father about food.
I, too, agree on the food. So much so that I have decided to open a second business - a food stand at the markets. The profits/ease of earning there almost makes the other venture unworthy.
My daughter and I have done several artist vendor booths. We never have made a profit over material costs, hotel, gas, etc. Only a few times did my daughter get paid well for the amount of time spent making her crafts. However, it did offset the costs to attend the events, we spent time together, and it was a good learning experience.
Hi Eric - I obviously don't have a lot of experience but it seems like some folks have it figured out and the rest of us are are still learning. Thanks for watching. 🙂
I really like this video. I really love that you showed what you made and actually stated your prices. Usually no one tells you… thanks for sharing.
Hi thanks for watching and commenting. I happy to know you appreciated the information.
Crafting is art, it's taking an object and making something out of it, whatever that might be. Artists blend their own paints but they don't make them. They don't make the materials they paint on in most instances either. What you do is artistry and you do it with your imagination and by saving things from the landfill. You should be more proud of your talent and artistry.
Thanks Denise.
Yes!!!!! I agree!!!
Absolutely!!
Art is unique. Craft is repeatable.
Fine art is nothing like crafts. Crafts can be very high quality, but there is nevertheless a big difference. A fine art painting is one-of-a-kind. Crafts are sold in quantities, like a production line. I’ve bought beautiful earrings at arts festivals, hand made silver…high end crafting, for sure, but there was a whole rack of the same earrings. Crafters seem to resent artists. Of course a beautiful 18”x24” oil painting is going to sell g=for more than $10.
I have been told even if you think it's ugly someone will like it. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Very true thanks for watching.
"Step[ing] away from" the emotional attachment to the items we've made ..... OMGosh, I'm planning my 1st craft fair & this advice is highly valuable! Thank you! Keep up the good work!
Hi Melanie - Thanks for watching and best wishes for a great craft show experience. Congratulations on stepping out there and giving it a try. 🙂
Beautiful items! I think the tin can purses might be more practical if they were smaller, less like a tote bag and more like a crossbody purse, maybe 10” wide by 8” high with 2”-3” depth and a fold over flap with the tin cans too. We all need totes but a lot of us tend to use a parachute material tote that folds up super-tiny and tucks into our purse!
Hi thanks for the ideas and for watching. The purses are so silly but I had fun with them. Thanks for watching.🙂
I absolutely agree, as a Bagmaker that’s what I recommend as well.
That sounds like a great idea, and in the end, save on product, save on time... sounds like a win win!
I’d say you did extremely well for your first show. I was in an organization once that hosted craft shows and we saw lots of vendors come and go over the years. The ones who had the nice displays and as you said had the following did very well. Our tables were only $30 at the time and most vendors covered costs. We often made more than $1000 just on the food concession. Most of the table space for rent went to the facility and we tipped the janitor about $100 because it was an overtime day for them. We also gave them free food and drinks throughout the day.
Thanks Diana 😊 It sounds like you have a lot of experience.
Thank you for this. I love your openness and honesty and totally get your categorisations of sellers. I am planning to do a local craft fair in a few weeks, here in Cornwall, UK, for the first time in several years. Your costs seemed huge and your takings so good, it was such a shame you did not make any profit. The ones who make the profit are the organisers and the owners of the venues. Loved the things you had made.
Hi Vanessa - thanks for watching and commenting. Best of luck with your upcoming show.
Confidence, and never comparing yourself to anyone else. Comparisons are what kill everything. They can kill a business they can kill a relationship they can kill yourself esteem. It’s important to stand out and stand out alone and not worry about what anyone else is doing. There is always going to be someone that’s better smarter, and if you’re constantly looking for what everyone else is doing then your focus is not where it’s supposed to be. Keep the light on you and everyone else will continue to do what they’re doing. What they’re doing and what they think it’s none of your business. Like I learned in the military a long time ago, quotations stay in your lane. Not only is that a survival tactic but it is also a reinforcement to self. If I’m more worried about what my battle buddy is doing downrange than what I’m doing that’s an easy way to get killed. The same thing works in the business logistics department it doesn’t matter if you’re selling crafts or if you have a business that you’re running as a full-time gig, it all applies at the end of the day. The tone that you said at the beginning of this video just screamed lack of confidence. I understand that you were doing a comparison videos to help us try and figure out the pros and cons of being at the flea market but first impressions are everything and I can tell from not even watching that video 10 minutes in that she did not do very well. That you probably second-guess yourself and of course compared yourself and as long as you do that you will never get to where you’re supposed to be. Make a brand for yourself stand out from the others and do it in a way that’s unique and authentic to you. If you don’t know what that is it will come to you when it’s supposed to but never ever decide to sell yourself short, even if it’s your first craft show and you didn’t know what to expect go on there like you do. Go on there like you own the show and I guarantee you will see that back and profit. Be confident on what you’re selling and you’ll be surprised on how that confidence will come back 10 times fold.
Thank you for the up date. I think you were so brave to give this all a try and on your own ! Congrats 👍👍
Thanks. I did do it in part for some personal development. The funny thing is now that it is over it doesn't seem like that big of an accomplishment. 🙂
Sounds like you sold some products at profitable prices. However I would never travel out of state to do a show as a crafter. The expenses are simply too high plus the logistics are quite challenging. It’s so much easier to stay local. An $800+ first show isn’t a bad start! Congratulations!
Thanks 😊
Just found u you our channel and loved hearing about your experience. I had to give up on craft shows because it is SO MUCH WORK! I am single and 63 so the physical aspect of craft shows was beyond me. I decided to get a booth in an antiques mall (yes, they let me sell my crafts there) and my booth has done well this year. Keep going and don’t let ANYONE intimidate you! Happy New Year!
Hi thanks for watching. I have wondered how the sales and fees are in antique and craft boutiques. I am happy you are doing well.
Thank you!!! That was super helpful to heart about your experience! Thanks for sharing your feelings and thoughts and take aways. This is something I would like to do some day but definitely feel intimidated by!
Hi Ruth - Thanks for watching. I am happy to provide a little insight and hopefully little encouragement. 🙂
Thank you for this look back. I enjoyed listening to your insights - it was very informative and I’m glad that on the whole it was positive.. It was very brave of you to do it all by yourself. I know a few people in the uk that do craft fairs, and it’s always a bit of an emotional roller coaster.
Thanks for watching and for reminding me that it was actually an accomplishment. It is weird how the things that scare us once done seem quite mundane.
Sounds like you had a great show, especially as a newbie! You definitely hit the ball out of the park in preparation - knowing your customer base, having products of many price points, taking debit and credit cards, etc. My personal musts are : stand up. greet every person who comes by with a cheerful "Hello", make friends with your fellow vendors especially those right beside you - you can support each other during slow times, and watch each others booths for bathroom breaks etc. AND HAVE BUSINESS CARDS! I find it gets me lots of aftersales. And have a thick skin. There will always be people who want Walmart prices, 2 for 1, say unhelpful things about your wares, etc. Let it go. Enjoy the customers that value you. And don't give up. Having hotel bills definitely held you back so you should take that into consideration in the future. Add an extra night and make it a mini vacation.
Hi Teresa thanks for all of your insights. I did really enjoy the experience even though it was a little intimidating.
$840 in sales is amazing, my first show I sold $0 😂 there weren’t many people there, I tell myself... I think a few other people there out of 11 also made no sales. And maybe only 3 or 4 seemed to have sold enough to cover the table fee $25. I have another one coming up that I expect will be better, but anyway I have a few things I’ll do differently next time: more signs/labels. More variety of items, “something for everyone.” That plus the fact there will be hundreds of people instead of like 50 or less, hopefully I’ll make some sales.
Hi Claire - best of luck on your upcoming show. I too know what it is like not to sell anything my limited selling experience has been a bit of a roller coaster ride. Thanks for watching and commenting 🙂
Hello and greetings from southern California.....New subscriber here. I was blown away when I accidentally found your recycle channel. I am almost 73 and have been crafting since I was a young girl scout. My mother was a wonderful seamstress who made all of her childrens clothes even helping us after we left home. We always laughed that she was a sewaholic. She eventually became a nurse but would be at her machine sometimes all thru the night still able to do her shift at the hospital early the next morning. When we did craft show together her items sold out quicker than anyone. I always did pretty well. They were always local festivals within San Diego County. Funny how times change though....our entry fees were either 20 percent of what you sold or later up to $50.00 a booth which she and I split. After my mother passed away I have mostly sold my things in Mom and Pop Stores or Spas. My very first adventure was knitting baby booties and hats and blankets which I sold outright to stores and hospital gift shops. I eventually had 15 places I kept full of my product. i was 23 at the time and it helped with the family budget. Funny to think of it now but I sold the booties to the stores etc for $1.00 a pair and they in turn retailed them for $3.50 a pair. But I didn't care.....after all I was making a fortune at $1.00 a pair. So funny to look back now at those memories. Moral of the story....Keep your confidence as your work is beautiful. Try local festivals, church bazaars and selling outright to stores especially in tourist areas. Thank you and I'll be checking out all your videos. It was nice to have met you thru you tube. Sincerely, Debbie and Dexter-Dog my precious rescued tiny Chihuahua companion living a quiet crafty life in southern California.🙏👍🏄🏡🚴🎃🎅🎄🎅🌲💝💝😄😄
Hi Debbie it's so nice to meet you and to have you join my youtube family. I loved hearing your nostalgic memories. It sounds like you have had a lot of experience selling your hand made items. Thanks for your insight. We have a four dog two cat household so I share your love of four legged friends. 🙂
I love using old things to make new things ❤️ reuse reduce recycle is the best. Don't give up do more shows they are so much fun.
Thanks for the encouragement 🙂
I started selling my knitted hats, headbands and scarves along with my watercolor notecards about three years ago at craft shows. I keep it very small and local (within 15 miles) and have always made a good profit above my expenses. I don't have any intention of selling at the larger shows because I just don't have the inventory for them. One of the perks of selling locally is that within a few days of a show I will get one or two commission requests for items, which only adds to my profits.
Thanks for your insight and ideas. 🙂
This is the 3rd year I’ve done a craft show. I follow a very talented crafter who is very successful. I made a lot of her items & they turned out great. But at the 3 craft fairs I did, I went in the hole. I spent so much money & time & all my friends loved them. I’m not sure what I did wrong, but I won’t be doing anymore vendor shows.
I have heard a lot of people say it is an up and down ride. Sorry about the disappointment of your last show.
I had a booth at a craft show. While my recycled creations were beautiful, I didn’t sell anything . It was so disheartening, that I donated it all to salvation army and never did it again. It does hurt your feelings, when you work hard on something and no one appreciates it enough to buy it. Now that I’ve started learning silversmithing and am making jewelry-that nagging doubt of “what if no one likes my work?” comes back to bother me. I’m not sure how to overcome that. My friends tell me that I should be selling my work, but I’m unsure….
Hi Texas Gigi - I know how you feel it is very disheartening when you don't sell anything. You are definitely not alone. My experience has been that it is a roller coaster ride. If you want to try it again I hope you will not be discouraged from trying.
Someone will enjoy it. There's several Facebook groups you can join for support!
That sounds like imposter syndrome to me. You feel that somehow you don't have a right to be there, which isn't true. I've also found that other crafts people can contribute to these feelings as they are very good at making you feel inadequate and that you don't belong. It often starts with the people running the event as a lot of them will want to vet your stuff before they'll even let you book in. If you happen to be creating anything that they feel will rival their or their friends items, you don't get a look in.
Then there's the issue of people wanting craft items for next to nothing, not understanding the costs and time involved. Now some art fairs are putting a cap on the selling price of the art. For example, at one of my local ones which is a fund raiser for a local school, they expect you to sell an original oil painting for under $300 (Australian $) and it must be professionally framed. They also tell you customers want large statement paintings. The cost of the framing runs at least around $100 for a small painting and the commission on the sale is going to be $100 plus $10-25 hanging fee, whether it sells or not. This has already cost you $200+.A quality canvas plus paint, mediums and varnish all has to come out of that last $75-90. A large canvas alone will cost you more than that, so in the end, it's just not worth entering a painting into the fair.
Yes… some like to ‘vet’ your stuff for a variety of reasons!
My jewelry teacher made beautiful hammered silver pieces that took her forever. I made inexpensive knotted necklaces. I sold $400 worth and she sold none. No reflection on her amazing work, but I was one of the only vendors priced at a level that even teens could afford ($12-$25) - everyone else was selling at "artist" prices. In a juried show, I'd NEVER be accepted, and my teacher would have done much better, probably
I did craft fairs with my family for 20 years. You did fantastic! To sell 11 of anything is wonderful! Congratulations!! Some fairs will be better than others depending on number of people who come.
Thanks much for watching and commenting. You must have a ton of experience and knowledge.
@@UpcycleDesignLab You’re welcome! You’re very talented and your jewelry is unique. Best wishes.
The most annoying comment i used to get was "I can make this myself". .. So, I worked on making simple knitting kits for hats and scarves. Each kit had enough hand-spun wool from our sheep, instructions, and a label. How many did I sell ? None ! I learned that sometimes it is best to try a range of goods, and see which ones the public like - it may not be your favourite, but if you want to make money, go with the sales. Simple things like cards take hours to make, and you can't add on your labour time - but, being cheap to buy, the public like them. And ignore nasty criticism - it always comes from ignorance !
Hi Trillia - I'm a little envious. In one of my alternate dream lives I have sheep and lamas and spend my days carding and spinning yarn.
I agree that you have to take some time to figure out what sells. Thanks for watching and commenting. 🙂
@@UpcycleDesignLab It takes time too to find the right group or organiser. Some are cheap to join, but you find the advertising or the venue is simply not up to scratch. if you are lucky, you will be "discovered", either by the better class of organiser, or shops that may want to stock your products. It is hard to sell items more cheaply to shops, but often a good move, because it can give a regular income. So much to learn ! I ended up sharing a shop space with others, then finally having a shop of my own - it can be done !
I commend you for getting out of your comfort zone and doing something different. As an Artist, it is never easy starting out. However, with each experience, things do get better. I appreciate you taking the time to make this video. I did push the subscribe button and I sincerely wish you the best.
Thank you so much! Happy to have you join my youtube family. 🙂
Loved your video. You're genuine and creative. Sharing your experiences is very helpful to others! Thank you.
Hi Diane - thanks for watching and for your kind comment.
Yay! I've been waiting for this!
Thanks for watching. I hope I addressed the topics you were interested in. 🙂
Hello how're you doing today hope you and your family are safe due to the covid 19 pandemic?
This was your first craft show? You did a fantastic job! I wish I did that well at my first craft show. Can't wait to see what else you craft up!
Thanks Vanessa, I was pretty nervous but I am really glad I did it.
Hello how're you doing today hope you and your family are safe due to the covid 19 pandemic?
Thank you for sharing your thoughts about craft/art fairs. Your description of the emotional side resonated.
Hi Christina,
Thanks for watching. I hope you found the information encouraging. Have a great day. 🙂
Love your video and your vibes. Thank you so much for sharing your experience.
Thanks for watching 😊
Thank you for sharing your self critique. It felt like a chat with a friend. I have just completed my second vendor show as a potter, and am going through all the pros and cons as I plan for the coming year. My first show was amazing! The second was a slow two day grind due to a lack of advertising. But it’s all good! I’m learning a lot. Thanks for sharing your work.
Hi Suzanne - thanks for watching. Best of luck with your next selling experience.
You did amazing!!!! I have done many shows and your results are awesome!!
Sometimes it just takes doing it a few times in the same area to get the following and interest in your product.
Many times people would tell their friends or family about my products and even if they didn’t buy anything the first time they would come back with their friends/family and I always enjoyed the interactions.
Making friends with other crafter/vendors always helped me to stay positive.
You did great!!
Thanks for watching and sharing your experience 😊
You did great for your first show ! Love your art !
Thank you so much! 🙂
Reading the comments I’ve learned you have a wonderful, helpful community of viewers and fellow crafters. Thank you for sharing your experiences. They will help you to grow! Good luck and thanks for your feed back on craft shows.
Hi Sandra - thanks for watching.
I love your work! Great projects.
Thanks 😊
See, I needed to hear this...I am worried about doing a booth, because I am a crafts person. This makes perfect sense to me.
Just be you and have fun. That's my only advise. :-) I am actually entering my second craft show at the end of April. I am sure I will have some of the same jitters but I am curious and hopeful. Best of luck to you and if you want to try it don't let that pesky fear and self doubt get in the way. Yes I know that is easier said than done.
I just found your videos and I absolutely love going thru them. You inspire me! In fact so much that i've been cutting up my cans in preparation to make the gorgeous earrings with the faux patina or rust. Those are stunners! Also love the watch earrings and garden stakes... all faves I am going to try! Thank you for sharing your hard work and your experience!
Ho Trei-Ann - Thanks for your lovely comment. I am so happy to hear you are inspired. Thanks for watching. 😊
Nice to hear your views of the experience. Have been a vendor at about 30 shows over several years, but none in the last 2 years. Was an artist at some and a maker (crafter?) at others. Difference for me being similar to what you suggested: a depth of focus and finesse as an artist, and a broader range of media and style and offerings as a maker. I did have a unique business-like experience at one show when I shared a booth with a friend. It was SO much easier for me to talk about what my friend created and sell her items - and it was a lot of fun too - I felt no pressure and no deep connection to the items I was talking to customers about, and I was thrilled every time I sold something.
Hi Vicki - Thanks for your insight and sharing your experience. It makes sense that it would be easier to talk about and sell someone else's work. I had a similar experience with my sister. Maybe we should all go in pairs and man each others booths. 🙂
Thank you so much for helping us with this topic
Hi Linda,
It was my pleasure. Thanks for watching. I know every show is different and everyone experiences things differently but I hope I provided some valuable insight.
Very interesting, thank you for your honesty.
Thanks for watching 🙂
This video is the first I’ve heard/seen you. I think you posted a very informative and interesting video. As a crafter I’ve been convinced profit is very difficult. I still continue to craft , however. I’m going to subscribe as I thought many of the items you showed are very good and fun. Breaking even is good, profit is wonderful. Thank you.
Hi Stella, Welcome aboard. So happy to have you as a subscriber.
Hi from Texas. Awesome 👌. Thank you for sharing. Yea, for recycling.
Hi Connie - Thanks so much for watching and commenting 🙂
Hello from New Mexico! I'm an hour's drive outside of Santa Fe. This is the first of your videos to find my CZcams recommendations! I've seen great crafters' booths at our Rennaissance Fair; The Rancho de las Golondrinas has many events, in which crafters can apply to set up a vendor stand. I love that you got out of your comfort zone and tried. Don't give up; there are many different venues out there beyond craft shows and artist's markets. Thanks for sharing your experience. It's very inspiring.
Hi thanks for the information and for watching. 🙂
I like your new "Night Court" show! :)
I loved your pieces! I've been doing art/craft shows, for 5 years, only about 2 to 3 shows per year, but your stuff would fit well at the shows I do. I am a knitter, and I describe what I do as unique/small batch, because I am not trying to be a production knitter. I do have a range of things, from $5 ornaments to $90 shawls, all handmade by me. Some shows I've done well, and a few shows have been a big bust. What I've learned is that I cannot predict what will sell. At my first show, I sold 0 winter scarves. At a show 2 weeks later in the same area, winter scarves were my biggest seller, both in numbers sold & in revenue received. Go figure. I would recommend doing church & nonprofit arts & crafts sales-the booth rentals at shows I've done range from $25 to $50 for a single space, which may or may not include a table & chairs. I think you might be pleasantly surprised by the results, and such shows are often established, yearly events, so you get some built in returning customers. Best of luck at your next show!
Hi Cindy thanks so much for your insights. I certainly don't have a lot of experience but I can say it is a bit a a roller coaster ride with definite ups and downs.
I used to do dollhouse miniatures. My late husband crafted a tool for me to make pleated drapes and I decided to go to a show as a vendor and sell not only the drapes, but the tool. He also hand crafted swing sets for me to sell. My total sale was 7 sets of drapes, 1 swing set and 0 tools. Total waste of time. They were not junk, they were quality items. The tools made of stainless steel, the swings made with wired rope so you could pose the swings and the drapes made with cornice boxes. I never tried again.
Hi Sherrell - I am sorry that you didn't have a good experience my second craft show was a total bust so I know how disappointing it can be. Thanks for watching.
I'm sorry that your first and last show was such a disappointment. As someone who has a dollhouse, I'm not surprised. It's difficult to find your customers, or for customers for a specialty item to find you, at a show.
Thank you for some insights that you've had about your experience. I've done about a half dozen arts and crafts shows. And it's very difficult to know where things are going to sell when things are going to sell what things are going to sell how to display them etc etc. My very first show I did the best and it was an extremely rural show and in the spring. So you would not have thought that would have been my best show.
I agree if I have learned anything it is that its very hard to predict or know what to expect from any given show. Thanks for watching.
Those wreaths are so unique and cool!
Hi Pattie - Thanks 😊
I agree with your assessment of craft show participation. I have done a few over the years as a "crafter" which can be a broadly defined term to be labeled as. I have shared areas with all three types you presented and often felt like the square peg in a round hole. I did paper crafts such as cards, journals, ornaments, etc. and while in a local setting I did well enough to cover low end entry fees to say I made a true profit would be stretching it. I did much better selling word of mouth thru friends and repeat customers. I appreciate this share from you and no I no longer do shows but do sell on request and thru a local co-op booth. Good luck and don't stop what you do.
Hi Cheryl - Thanks for your comment and insight. I am not sure what the future holds for me and attending craft show. I hope to do it again but who knows.
I think you did an awesome job. I started doing shows about six years ago. I am a “sewist ” and use a lot of upcycled clothing. I have done as little as $0 and as much as several thousand$$$. You my dear are an artist so don’t sell yourself short. I live your tin can projects. Not everything is for everyone. What I have found is that you need to be selective about the shows you choose and when you “find your people” they will spears the word and each year you will do more as you build your tribe. I would recommend more local church craft shows to start and try to do one that have a high percentage of handmade vendors also one that limit the number of vendors with mass produced products. Good luck for future shows!
Hi Doris, thanks so much for watching and commenting. I definitely agree with finding your tribe. It makes a big difference. I appreciate your insight and encouragement. Thanks again 🙂
Your recommendation just described the craft show I am soon to attend this Sunday (2nd overall)
There is a man in NH that crafts beautiful and quite large fish sculptures from tin cans and such. They are so cool.
I like your creativity. Enjoyed the report of your show. Will be following. Good luck. I have not shown since the 90's.
Thanks for watching Ruth 🙂
You did fantastic! Wow! All recycled items!
A local craft show it seems might be a huge success! Save on expenses and way more profit.
I’m so impressed you sold so much!
Thanks Pamela, I had a lot of fun but definitely need to stay closer to home. I am looking at a show in April. So we will see how it goes. It will be a totally different environment and I expect that Christmas show are better for sales but live and learn. Right?
Hello how're you doing today hope you and your family are safe due to the covid 19 pandemic?
I love the tin can purse idea, it could the thought of how the consumer would use it everyday that you could demonstrate at the show. A purse may not be the way, maybe as a market bag or tote. Actually I love all of your repurpose work, thank you for sharing your experiences, glad I found your blogs on utube
Hi Shawn Thanks for watching and welcome to my crazy world of upcycling. The purses were a fun project that made me giggle. But they are definitely not mainstream 🤣😁
Hey Ms. Upcycle, thanks for the video, appreciate the honesty. And lol at your description of “artist, crafters and business people”, I’m an artist but hard to get people to buy $200 paintings🥴, again thanks for the video!
Thanks for watching and commenting 🙂
Just ran into your video while scrolling through UTube craft videos. I, too, did my first show last year. It was an interesting experience. I consider myself an artist first, and was probably the only artist in this particular show. I felt like I was more of a show-er than a seller. Lots of oohs and aahs but not many sales even though many paintings were priced fairly cheap. I did have some craft items but they didn't sell that well as I had hoped either, but I learned a lot from the experience. I ended up making enough $ to cover my expenses. I think every show is different and attracts a different crowd. The people at this show making money were what you would call business people. The man in the booth next to me did a show nearly every weekend. I have already committed to do this show again later this year, but I have a better idea of what sells and have some new crafts I HOPE will sell. Also, having someone with you is a real bonus. I have 2 friends who will have booths next to me this year which will make it easier to take bathroom breaks, get lunch, etc. I really enjoyed your video and will look back at some of your others later. Thank you for making me feel better about being a novice at this. I hope your future experiences are better. Some of your crafts look very interesting and I too would have thought they would have sold better. I guess the big question now may be what the economy is going to do and how it will effect sales for discretionary items. Wishing you good selling in the future
Hi Charlotte, thanks so much for taking the time to comment. I have now done my second show and it was a total bust. I am far from seasoned at this but I do believe in finding the right show. Best wishes for your next show. Thanks again.
I love the wall hanger!!!
Thanks so much 🙂
Thank you for sharing your experience; I am part of a craft fair at our church every Advent (in Switzerland); I've seen some things sell like hotcakes one year, and nothing of that item the next! I am a crafter, of those three categories, and my display is eclectic, with quite a few upcycled crafts. I just try to keep track of what was sold, but as I said, you never know from year to year what will be popular! You have to go to such events with the mindset of enjoying the experience of creating, and if some items sell, making room for more creativity, the better!
Hi thanks for watching and for sharing your experience. I agree the most important part is to enjoy it. 🙂
New to you! Be watching! This video was such an inspiration ! Thanks
Hi Rita - thanks for watching 🙂
Thank you for including pics of your items. Tin can earrings???? So cool.😃
Thanks Jill 😊
Hi. Just subscribed to your channel. I do craft fairs and I if I make back my booth fee, I call it a win. Every fair is not a good one. The interactions with people and them also appreciating you work is always a plus. I enjoy it.
Like the shirt. Purple is my favorite color.
Hi thanks for watching and subscribing. I am so happy to have you join my youtube family.
I love this video I’m getting ready for my first expo and already have anxiety lol. Thank for the psychological side of it as well.
Thanks for watching. I hope that your expo is a joyful success. I am pretty sure everyone there is feeling some of what you are feeling. I have done a couple more shows since I made this video and the nervousness has always been there but that is a big part of the experience and the sense of accomplishment that comes with facing your fears. Best of luck. 🙂
Thanks so much for posting this and being so open about your experience. I have been doing a weekly flea market with crafters and junk dealers and artists in a rural area for 2 summers. I have done much better there than the Wednesday night farmers market/craft fair in the same area. I love the hodgepodge of all types of sellers at the flea market. High-priced items are not as common there, but there are regular customers who just love to come for a social outing, and buy whatever strikes their fancy each time. Fun and friendly! In the meantime, I'm working on setting up my online store, and a bricks and mortar Vintage Collectibles market with a plants nursery. I too am a proponent of reuse-repair-repurpose-recycle. I tend to offer a lot of different types of items - because there is joy (to me) in finding beauty and purpose in used stuff. I love your creativity and vision.
Hi Adele - it's nice to meet you I am always happy to find more folks that like to save things rather than toss them. It sounds like you are busy with all kinds of endeavors. Best of luck with all of them. Thanks for watching and commenting.
Thanks for this. One year later and still pertinent for sure. I'm so glad I stumbled upon your channel. You are a wonderful talent. Best wishes on your channel growth. I am too, now a follower.
Hi Barb - Welcome! I am so happy to have you join my youtube family. Thanks for your kind wishes and for watching. My best wishes to you as well. 🙂
I really like what you made & I think it would fit well into a regular craft show - the fact it's recycled would be a good ice-breaker. I've found from past (20-years or so) experience that if potential buyers have to pay to get into a craft show, they're less likely to put their hands in their pockets to actually buy anything - at least in the UK. It's a bit of a hobby for folks, I think, like browsing make-up counters or antique stores.
Hi Patricia - Thanks for watching and for sharing your experience 😊
Actually, I’ve found the opposite so long as the entrance fee wasn’t high. If they paid to get in, they intended to SHOP. Ironically, I also found that on rainy days I did better. People coming out in the rain (especially an outdoor show) are intending buy. But as I mention in my full comment, shows can be total crap shoots for reasons totally out of your control (not based on your products at all.)
Your Vid here is both candid and thorough and much appreciated by all interested in the field. So a good additional warning: beware of fund raising organisations that lean on the crafter for participation in shows they organise...promising customers that never come down to the atrium of their professional building full of well paid employees, organisations that charge for a table, for a percentage of your sales AND expect a donation to the silent auction where only bottom feeders dwell. Be sceptical of these requests and ask how many dentists and lawyers are donating their time first.
Your items are a great fit for most craft shows I've been involved in. You'll gain confidence in each show you do. I'm a crafter and do it as a hobby. When I make a few dollars I'm thrilled that someone would pay me to do something I love.
Hi thanks for watching and for sharing your experience 😊
This was wonderful video and for me very nostalgic. Thank you so much for putting video this together it brought a smile to my day. Good luck in future endeavors and stay crafty.
Advice for shows: I've been a vendor/Artist/crafts-person for 22 years now and have been the sole bread winner of the family for around 95% of that time. It is a challenge to get started, but once you get established it's the best job out there. The best piece of advice I can give any first time or just starting out craft-person or artist is to start with a few small local shows. Big shows are wonderful, but require a lot more in the way of product, money, and organization. If you start with a few small shows you can work out some of the kinks in your booth and display, figure out what works well for you possess wise, and is all in all way less stressful oh and WAY cheaper. You can go big after that, but there is nothing like real life experience to help you work the kinks out and help you figure out what your doing.
Hi Amy - thanks for watching and sharing insight from your experiences.
Interesting take on craft shows! After many shows with minimal large item sales,I put my larger priced items on Facebook market place and sold all but one! My lesson seemed to be that shoppers at shows were not prepared to purchase at this price point! I noticed that other vendors stocked a range of small, medium, and high priced items! My online sales at least showed my items were sales worthy! Never the less I love doing the shows!
Hi Alice- thanks for the info. I am not gearing up for any shows this season but my do it again sometime. Thanks for watching.
You're absolutely right about there being 3 categories of vendors at craft shows - businessmen/women, artisans and craftsmen/women (like me), and also that some people fall into more than one category. No one category is necessarily better or more talented than the others. After not doing shows for a dozen or so years, I did one small show in October. By most peoples' definition, it was a bust; but I had fun seeing and visiting with friends and family and checking out other vendors' crafts. So, for me, it was a success. I remembered some things about doing craft shows that I'd forgotten and learned a few new things. (Mainly remembered that I was OLDER and that I never would have gotten through the day without help from 2 of my 3 daughters!) 😊 Many thanks for your series and congratulations on your show; I found it very helpful. 💗 (BTW - love that shirt you're wearing, so I made a similar one last night!)
Hi Diana - Nice to meet you. Thanks for sharing your experience. I don't have a lot of experience selling at craft shows but I do know like most things they are what you make of them. And fortunately I was raised to try to find the good in things. It seems like you were too. Thanks for watching. 🙂
Thank you for this information
Thanks for watching Tammy. 🙂
Idk why CZcams suggested ur channel, but I’m glad to be here. U feel and sound so authentic and “human”. That’s kinda rare in social media. I’m not planning on doing sales nor do I even get to craft often. Mostly play in digital arts, but Years ago as a teen and in college, I made art from nature. I’d go down the road and find the piles of cut branches and bags of leaves to be picked up. I’d dig for the green-newly cut branches and bend them to make amazing “forest fairy” … diorama I guess lol. It was my escape. I’ve lost touch with that part of me and hope to find it again one day. Until then I’ll be supporting anyone who is out there expressing themselves in such a positive and relatable way.
Thanks so much for watching. I hope you find some time for crafting and creating if you find it enjoyable. I kind of think of it as therapy. 🙂
Thank you for sharing and you are so brave to take the risk to put yourself out there, both in front of a camera and in a show. I think your 3 categories is really spot on. Yes, all 3 blend -everyone is doing a business by selling -artists craft and crafters do art their way, but when you walk through the shows you can see the main focus of each booth. I agree with the other comments about needing more shows to get a feel for how your products appeal to various buyers. Also, seasons affect what will sell. At this time most are looking for gifts -so your child grab bag was perfect. Did you happen to figure out if folks were primarily buying your items as gifts or for themselves?
Hi Susan, Thanks for your insight. Your question is a good one. I do remember one couple talking about about buying an item as a gift other than that I didn't really pay attention but I should have. There is a lot to take in. 🙂
You have to be confident and believe your work us awesome nothing happen over night keep going you get there
Thanks 😊
For me personally, craft shows are always worth it. I always make what i like and then if it doesn't sell...I have gifts to give away. Also, things have a way of coming back around in selling. I also do the flea market, eBay, and easy.
Hi Tina - thanks for sharing. You have a lovely positive attitude. 🙂
Yes I’ve warned my family that what doesn’t sell will be Xmas gifts. I’m hoping to get my son,a professional salesman to come for a while.
I'm totally new to your channel but this video was very interesting. For sure I'll watch more of your videos in the very near future.
Some things you offered on the craft show where very interesting and I've never seen them anywhere before.
It's a pity you didn't tell more about the expenses. Travelling is expensive nowadays and the same counts for staying in a hotel.
Expenses for a selling booth vary on each craft show, I guess.
I wish you a lot of success with your YT channel and your future craft shows. You certainly deserve it.
Greetings from Slovakia.
Thanks so much for watching.
Your items are beautiful!
Thanks 😊
New Sub today
Thank you for the hard work making us videos about your experience 💜
Hi Rachel - Thanks for watching.
Hi I am from Australia and this is the first time seeing you. I also do upcycled crafts and attend craft shows and markets. Don’t get discouraged our kind of product is not for everyone , people still need educating regarding this kind of item. I generally find that younger people are more into this. Keep going and doing what makes you happy.
Hi Vera, thanks for your comment. Do you share your projects on social media anywhere i would love to see your work?
@@UpcycleDesignLab
Not at the moment but my daughters are pushing me to give it a go. When I do will send you a link.
I look forward to hearing from you. Best wishes. 🙂
Great video
Thanks 😊
Your products are amazing
Thanks so much Gwendolyn 🙂
I am surprised you didn’t sell the mirrors!! Gorgeous!
Thanks Chelsea I think they are fun and interesting but I haven't found anyone who wants to pay for them. 🙂
You did very well on your show, I've gone and not sold anything-I have sold wreaths and before that I use to make embroidered items, congrats, you have some -not ordinary stuff. It depends on the show.
Hi Eunice - thanks for watching and for sharing. For what it is worth my second craft show was a total bust.
Way to put yourself out there!
Thanks Molly 🙂
you did phenomenal for a craft show....really...
Thanks 😊
Excellent advice nit just for selling, but for life. There's room fir everybody and you do belong!
Thanks for watching 😊
Super cute stuff! I might make the purses half the depth! The bag is a bit too deep for most people.
Hi thanks for watching and commenting. 🙂
I think you are an artist.
Thanks Joyce 😊
Hi. Thanks for making this video. I found the point of categories of vendors really insightful. I have often struggled to find a fair to sell in due to the fact that I am neither a business vendor or an artist. I am based in London. Having struggled to fit in either one or other of these groups I am considering setting up a fair in north London (England) for us real crafty types. Thanks for making this point.
Hi Diane - thanks for watching and commenting. I wish you well in your crafty endeavors in the new year.
Yes theres space for everyone but....your sucess comes from knowing where your items sell best. If you attend a lot of fairs, youll see where you fit in.
Hi Kim thanks for the advice. I am excited and a little nervous to try some other shows and make some comparisons.
Very good recap of the show experience. Thank you for being so open and honest. After 30+ years of doing shows (starting out definitely at the crafter glass level and now more on the glass artist level) here are a couple takes on what I’ve found. (Sorry long, but hopefully helpful to some of your audience…)
1) If at all possible, preview a show the year before you intend to enter. Get a feel for the level of work, how much is art/craft/buy& sell, is the show juried or anyone can set up a table, are customers walking around with bags of items they purchased or just walking around doing the show as more entertainment than intending on shopping,… How well does it seem to be organized: separate area for vendors to take a break, volunteers walking around helping vendors, show seems well put together or disorganized. Take all of this a bit with a grain of salt. Realize you may be seeing a show at its peak of the first rush of customers or at the end of a long tiring day. But you can still generally get a feel for how would the show be for you the following year. Also gives you a better idea what level of work to strive for (low budget spur of moment purchases or high end art).
2) Have a thick skin but graciously accept complements. It’s amazing what people will say kind or cruel.
3) Determine are your items more the Community Center show style or well juried art show style of pieces. It’s amazing the differences in the clientele that show up for the two types of shows. Personally, I aimed for the select juried level shows. Found the customers my work was aiming for were more on that end of the spectrum. Even if I had well priced (read low priced) items and a few high end art pieces, the person next to me selling marshmallow guns beat me hands down. This speaks back to number 1 as well. Look who your competitors for the hard earned dollars would be on the preview scope out.
4) Don’t write off a show that really should be perfect for you after one not as expected showing. Next year you’ll know what to focus your crafting/artistic endeavors on better. Like say a recycling art show for a Up Cycle Artist. 🤔
5) Always be aware that craft shows are a real crap shoot. Could be great one year and terrible the next. Solely based on weather, a new organizer learning the ropes, the economy, going into a pandemic or everyone coming out and shopping like crazy. There’s so much that can affect the outcome of a show.
I LOVE doing shows but now that health reasons have really limited how many I can do, I find I am making more “profit” now that I’m not doing shows. By only selling in a couple small art/boutique type gallery/shops than spending so much time twiddling my thumbs and picking up marshmallows (yes, blown in on purpose, every-time I had anyone even walk into my booth my show neighbor would shoot marshmallows into MY booth!)
Hi Linda - thanks for sharing all your years of experience. As I mentioned I am pretty much of a novice at craft shows but have learned a lot. Thanks so much for sharing a great watching. 🙂
I really enjoyed hearing your insight. I like how you defined the categories because there is a wide range of what might be found for sale at most craft shows/festivals. As an artist or hand maker myself, I can probably produce something from each category, but I'm like you and don't really enjoy mass production.
My husband and I have entertained the idea of becoming craft show venders. But this video definitely helped with the decision. First of all, I always feel very awkward when attending craft shows because the sellers look so eager/desperate for sales and I want to help them, but obviously can't buy from everyone. I always wonder how I would feel behind the tables. I'm not sure I have the right personality to go through all the work of making the products, paying all the expenses relating to the shows and then feeling the pressure of not being able to cover my costs, let alone my efforts. I would probably have a look on my face that would be rather off-putting!😒 But I'm impressed with those who can pull it off!!
We have found another way to sell. We found a shop whose owner started out by refurbishing furniture. She needed a space to do her work and rented a store front. She displayed her furniture there and then gradually bought things to sell and also took items on consignment from local artists. She gets 30% which might seem hefty, but compared to all the other expenses of selling, and even more - the ease of selling in comparison - I am grateful for our agreement.
So, I just wanted to throw it out there, that shops who sell on consignment might be a good option. Each shop has its own vibe and we found one who loved our work and who has a great location. My husband is a woodworker. I make fabric collage wall art primarily along with cross-body handbags, baskets and other things. Compared to craft shows and online selling with all the time spent on taxes and payments and such, I am very satisfied with our arrangement. We are not doing this for a living, just for fun and don't want to deal with a lot of the business end. Thanks again for reporting your findings! I am looking forward to watching your videos on how to make some of your items! Love them!
Hi thanks for all of your insights. I did sell a few things on consignment but the shop has now closed. I agree it is a much more low pressure way to sell. Thanks for watching. 🙂
@@UpcycleDesignLab If I was a few years younger, I would be working it like you are with multiple streams of income potential.
I like your work! GLTA.💙
Thanks 😊
I sell polymer clay earrings at a Farmer's Market type venue. Fifteen dollars seems to be the price point that sells. Congrats on your sales and a great video.
Thanks so much 🙂
Oh! I get it. Don't let others make you feel less than who you are. Yes, you are a crafter, that is a form of art, and you can make a name for yourself, don't let anyone steal your thunder
Thanks 😊
Your items would fit right in at the Portland Saturday Market in Oregon. I used to sell there and recycled items were always a big hit (not what I sold but I made friends with the other vendors and we traded info), your prices seem more than fair.
I definitely recommend starting local if it's an option, and also scout out fairs and markets ahead of time to see what the customer base wants, you could see if they have Facebook pages or websites to get a feel for who they are trying to attract. Some farmers markets have a crafter's corner, and those customers tend to be more eco minded.
Also, you might enjoy the Christmas/Holiday markets, those are people looking for gifts, small items under $30-$50 move quite well, plus people are in a time crunch and don't have time to DIY.
Nice videos by the way.
Hi - Thanks so much for your insight and encouragement. 🙂
I subbed today!!
Hi Diane - I so happy to have you join my youtube family. 🙂
I’ve had so many children gathered around my booth that vendors left their table to see what I was selling. I make fancy slimes for kids, parents hate it but the kids love it. Kids are often overlooked at craft shows. If you want a sure winner sell slime 🙌🏻
Hi thanks for your comment. I am happy for your success.
I think you did great. You made some money and you found out what sells.
Thanks Margie 😊