Craft fair question

[WolfmoonCT]

So I have been invited to be in a craft fair for Nov 5.. I've NEVER done a craft fair, as I've only got into scrolling back in like March/April. My question is how much stuff do you all normally bring. This is a simple church craft fair, and there will be tables.. Ones that they provide for the vendors. They are standard folding table size ones.

 

So would you all bring multiples of stuff, or do you just bring a single of each thing? I have like 10 items cut right now. They are all the first cuts of the trays I've posted here. Do you think I should try to bring multiples of each? I'm not sure how fast or how much I will sell. I was thinking of just bringing the singles of all the trays, with a book of high quality pictures of all the stuff I've made, so people can see what I can make, and let them order from it.

 

The trays take me about 4 hrs to cut each one. I'm kinda slow I think, but it is what it is for now. LOL

 

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. i also have 2 trays I have on order that I need to cut before I can even start cutting more for the fair...

[Old Dust]

I have done 100's of craft shows so perhaps I might be able to give you some ideas.

 

Since tables give limited display space I would:

1. Bring all you can but only display 1 of each. If it sells then bring out another.

2. Have a variety of price range from $1 to $50+.

3. Since this is a Church affair I would have some religious items: crosses, angels, sayings, etc.

4. Yes! Definitely have your album out.

5. Have business cards. You can order cheap cards at www.vistaprint.com.

6. It is not too early to have Christmas decorations out.

7. Be sure you have a lot of $1 bills for change.

8. Have a black table cloth for the table.

 

Just a few ideas to get started.

 

John

 

Old Dust

[WolfmoonCT]

Thanks old dust. My girlfriend has a black cloth that covers the long tables, I have business cards I got from vista print, as well as one of their 3' x 1.8' banners.

 

I probably wont' have many double's of much, since work is pulling me like 50 hrs a week right now, and since each tray that I tend to specialize in, takes me about 4 hrs to cut each one, and I only try to do like 2 hrs a night after work, so I dont' burn out on it. Unfortunately I was only asked to be there last week, so it's kinda short notice for me. You can only go by invite since space is limited. I charge $20 per candle tray, and $25 for the ones that are stained with the colors. it's simple easy pricing... I dont' really make much profit on my time, but I am not trying to make a living doing it. It's more for being able to afford more wood to make more stuff.

[Old Dust]

If it takes you 4 hours you are way low on price.

Remember, you are a craftsman.

However, if that is all you want then I would have a sign on the table--

"CLEARANCE SALE"

all items

ARE MARKED AT

HALF PRICE"

 

John

 

Old Dust

[Dan]

John covered a lot with what he said. Definitely a dark, solid-colored table cloth. I bought a black bed sheet for $3 at a dollar store. I sold a ton of ornaments two weeks ago. The sled ornaments were a big seller and I always sell out. I'm making 30 of them for my next show.

 

Protraits get a lot of attention and bring people to the table. If you have one that is framed, put it in a prominant place so curious people will come in and see the other stuff you sell too.

 

Have a blade or two with you. So many people asked what kind of laser I have. Haha!

 

If someone is eyeing something, tell them a little about it. Many times they don't want to be the ice breaker but they are interested in some stuff.

 

I always have a few cheap items in the $2 to $6 range. And I always say, "These make nice stocking stuffers." Bookmarks work well for me.

 

Dan

[don in brooklin on]

I don't do craft shows but from another site I got started doing birdhouses and angels from Diana Thompson. One lady sold 70 in one weekend at $10 each. WOW

 

http://www.scrollsawinspirations.com/default.asp?ID=7&action=detail&ProductCode=131

 

They are really fun to do and don't take too long to pop out a few. You get addicted to making them and so I have about 30 birdhouses so far and dozen angels. I am going to give my collection to my mother who is going to sell them at her retirement homes Christmas sale. All the money goes to charity.

 

On the other site some people are getting up to $10 for the birdhouses. I think that is a little rich but I think when my Mom sells them she is going to try $8 or 2 for 15. If it doesn't go we reduce the price. I also have a bunch of angels that she is going to sell.

 

Good luck.

 

PS: If you don't do well don't give up. A penturning friend took 3 years to figure out what sells and what doesn't.

[Joey]

Wolfmoon,

You have received a lot of good advice. I would like to add to it. Know the size of the area you will be allowed

to use. Set up the same area in your home and then place your items on the table. What you will learn from this

is awesome. When you go to the show you will be more then ready to participate.

Goog luck, Joey