Posted by Nancy Flynn on 2007-03-28 17:53:37
Post Subject: News & Events Page
Hello Craftistas!
We've started a new section on the homepage specifically for community news and events. We want this to be a place where you can find out about the latest news from fellow members and get the scoop on exciting crafty happenings all over the world.
The information in this section will be screened and posted by Christy and myself, and we want your input!
Feel free to send us:
*Your exciting crafty news-- did you publish an article or pattern in a magazine, zine or online publication? are you going to be on a tv show? anything else you want us to keep an eye out and give you a shout out for?
*Information about crafty events & happenings
*Calls for participants in craft fairs, shows or contests
This is *not* a space for:
*Advertising a business, promotion or sale (craft fairs or collective events are an exception)
Sound like you have some news or events for us? Please e-mail as much information as possible (including small thumbnail graphics if applicable) to:
nancy getcrafty com
We won't be able to reply to every e-mail or post every item we receive, but we'll be as inclusive as possible to keep everyone informed of the latest!
Posted by demarcothebeast on 2005-10-16 02:50:48
Post Subject: organizing a craft fair
Hi everyone,
I'm new at getcrafty and would like some advice on starting craft fairs in seattle area. I have a spot (indoor warehouse), location south of safeco. If anyone would like to share anything about the topic please do. I need help!
Tanya
Posted by sweet_tooth on 2007-04-26 09:53:49
Post Subject: AD: Julie's Jangles jewelry
Hi everyone!
I've been crafting for years now, but recently discovered my love of jewelry design, and I've run away with it! I use mostly vintage components, like pendants, charms, and beads, to create fun, pretty jewelry with a retro twist.
I just got my website up and running and want to get the word out. I am still working out some technical issues, ie. getting brighter, clearer pictures. Also, although I love the look of my website, I designed it on the iWeb program (for Macs), and can't integrate a shopping cart function. Therefore, I've set it up so the "buy" button e-mails me with the item the customer wants to buy, to which I reply with a Paypal invoice. The customer can then proceed to pay with credit card via Paypal. This isn't a favorable way for me be set up, but I really wanted to get my jewelry out there so I can sell some things and put money into a better website. I'm going to be doing craft fairs this summer, also.
Any feedback would be welcome and appreciated, be it on my jewelry and the site!
Posted by KonichiwaKay on 2008-09-23 17:48:07
Post Subject: Help! I''m writing a paper on crafting!
I''ve been glued to getcrafty for a few weeks now (I was just on Craftster until I found these forums), and this is my first post (what better time to register than now!?!)
I''m a college student and a crafter, so when I was assigned a research paper with a topic of my choice - I chose to write about \"The resurgence of Handcrafting\"! My assignment requires that I do a few interviews to supplement my research, so who better to interview than all of you expert crafters?
So here are my interview questions, and I''d really appreciate anyone who could take the time to answer them!
* What do you know about the history of crafting? (ie the arts and crafts movement in America in the 1890-1930s, crafting in the 1940s during WWII, etc.)
*What crafts do you do? Where did you learn them?
*Why do you craft?
*How do you think the internet has affected the popularity of crafting?
*Are you male or female? Do you think crafting tends to be more feminist?
*Do you sell your crafts? If yes, why? And where do you sell? (Craft fairs, Etsy? etc.)
*Do you think certain crafts are generation specific? (In other words, are there crafts that people of younger generations do that people in older generations don''t? Or vice versa)
Posted by lance on 2006-09-11 20:59:18
Post Subject: Welcome new co-editors!!
I would like to welcome Christy Petterson and Nancy Flynn as the two new co-editors of getcrafty.com! Effective immediately, Nancy and Christy will be taking over Jean's previous role on get crafty.
W had big shoes to fill. First of all, thanks to Jean for helping us by recommending Nancy and Christy. Based on the getcrafty.com’s members’ feedback, it was important for us to continue Jean’s vision for this website, and Christy and Nancy, both long time committed members of getcrafty.com, will be fantastic co-editors. I would also like to thank all of the community members who have offered to help and made suggestions over the past week. The caliber and commitment of members of the getcrafty.com community never ceases to amaze me.
I know many of you are familiar with Nancy and Christy, but I thought I would post some more information just to give you a bit of background on both Nancy and Christy.
Nancy Flynn has been a member of Get Crafty since October 2004, and has written the Dilettante Crafter column since August of 2005. She credits Get Crafty with inspiring her to quit her day job and follow her dream of a more creative life. Thanks to the inspiration and support of the Get Crafty community she has written a craft book for teens that will be published in 2007 and has another in the works for 2008. She also designs a line of handbags (which she sells in local boutiques and craft fairs in Northern California) named after her Get Crafty handle belle epoque.
Craftiness and Christy Petterson go way back. In the 80s she constantly had an in-the-works friendship bracelet pinned to her jeans. Today she creates clothes and accessories for her line called ‘a bardis’ and plans the Indie Craft Experience with two other Atlanta designers. The Indie Craft Experience is a craft market and fashion show that takes place twice a year with participants from all over the country. Christy has been a member of Get Crafty since November of 2003 and has written a column on the site called “how to by ceebee” since August of 2005. She also travels to shows in other cities to sell her creations and you can come meet her at the Renegade Craft Fair in Chicago (September 16 + 17) and Crafty Bastards in D.C. (October 1). www.abardis.com
Please join me in wishing all the best to Christy and Nancy!
Posted by IranMassiel on 2006-01-20 20:30:12
Post Subject: nyc designers trunk show!!!!
Hi,
I am planning a designer's trunk show in the Inwood section of manhattan Early August. I would like to know if anyone can give me any advice they can. I am confused about legality issues. Where do I find info on getting permits for craft fairs/trunk shows? Would any of you be interesting in becoming vendors? The reason I am aiming for Inwood is because most craft fairs in NYC are either in brooklyn or lower manhattan. I feel that we need to expand our market by moving uptown. I would also like to ask if anyone knows of a space that might be available for this type of event in Inwood?
Thanks,
Iran
Posted by sarabell on 2007-03-06 13:51:36
Post Subject:
very nice work!
why not try etsy - http://www.etsy.com/
and definitely try selling at some of your local craft fairs. if you don't know of any that are coming up, contact your local chamber of commerce. they'll be able to put you in contact with people that organize them. or perhaps a consignment shop!
Posted by bennieriot on 2005-04-08 01:36:35
Post Subject: craft fairs in CA
I thought it might be good to have a list of craft fairs in California--and other states for that matter. It's been hard trying to find good ones around--most of them don't have that cool young hip feel.
This is sad, but the only ones I know of are:
Bazaar Bizarre, Los Angeles, CA
Renegade Craft Fair, Brooklyn, NY
Renegade Craft Fair, Chicago, IL
Any others? California ones would be so good to know...
Posted by abigailamy on 2004-10-10 16:31:46
Post Subject: looking for crafty business advice! :)
Hello,
I'm thinking about starting a little crafty venture and would welcome words of wisdom from other crafters who have crafty businesses. Just a little part time thing. What do you think is important, what would you make sure to do etc?
My idea is to do something online and then to maybe sell my product through word of mouth. We don't have too many craft fairs in my area that I know about. So any suggestions, ideas or anything you would share with me - I would be so grateful!
Posted by hodge on 2004-04-27 01:59:00
Post Subject: advice on starting a stitch n bitch group
i got a letter today from a friend who is living in northern ireland. she has been living there for a couple of years and has had chronic fatigue syndrome for most of that time, so she has found it hard to meet people. she is starting to feel better and wants to hook up with other crafty types. i have been telling her about my own craft happenings like hosting stitch n bitches, founding the montreal chapter of the church of craft, participating in craft fairs, etc. so she asked me to send her along a diy guide to starting a craft group.
the thing is, a whole bunch of specific circumstances led to me becoming involved in these things, and i don't know how much of my situation would be applicable to hers - i was in school, she is working, i met my partner in craft crime on the glitter boards before moving to montreal, and she doesn't know anyone crafty over there, i was volunteering at a community center that hosted alterna-craft fairs, etc. etc.
can anyone think of some general advice to give someone re: meeting other young crafters in your hood?
Posted by brdgt on 2006-11-04 19:22:32
Post Subject: Art vs. Craft (Milwaukee)
Anyone at Art vs. Craft in Milwaukee this weekend? I stopped by today and it just gets better every time. I grew up doing traditional craft fairs with my mom and I love the fact that this kind of show can get so many quality vendors. I picked up some lovely holiday cards :)
Posted by Astrid on 2008-04-05 05:43:19
Post Subject:
What is your craft of choice? (sewing, knitting, etc)
Mainly crochet, then knitting and a bit of sewing. When necessary I DIY around the house, paint jobs etc.
Why do you make your own clothes/jewelry/knit/craft?
Grew up with crafty parents. Just don't know any better then try to make your own things before you buy. It's in my nature.
What age did you start doing your craft? What age are you now?
Started around 6-7, now 45.
How do you afford to do this type of thing? Is this your main source of income? Do you have another job?
I'm a working girl. Crafting is mainly a hobby, but one that I try to make some extra money with. Materials are all reused (often curb found). Haven't spent any money on it in years.
Approximately how many hours a week do you spend crafting/knitting/sewing/making stuff?
About 14? Well, at least I think.
Do you prefer to buy handmade stuff (clothes, bags, etc)? why? No, I try to make my own first. What I can't make I try to find for free in the trash or I buy second/hand. Maybe I would buy hand made if I could afford it.
Do you have a crafting/sewing/knitting (whatever your craft is) group you meet with? How often? Why do you like it?
No, I like to work on my own.
Do you sell the things you make? Where do you sell them?
I sell on craft fairs (not often) and online (Etsy).
Where do you go online to discuss/learn/share your craftiness? How do these sites inspire you in ways that real life conversations don’t?
I visit a lot of those sites. Getcrafty, Craftster, HGTV and some local Dutch ones. I don't know a lot of crafters in real life, I\m a bit of a 'Einzelganger', so these sites are great to look at what other people make, get opinions about my designs and business advice.
What other crafty things do you do?
As said above, a bit of DIY around the house. And oh yes, almost forgot I fix old bicycles. (make one working one out of several crappy ones)
Is there a subversive element to crafting/knitting/sewing? A punk rock element? DIY smugness?
I used to be a punky in the eighties, but considered my craft as my 'soft side', not really a part of my punkiness. Though I did make a lot of black sweaters.
Right now it has more to do with environmentalism and anti-consumerism for me, as I refuse to buy new shiny materials and rescue stuff instead (thrown away knitwear to unravel) from the landfill.
What are your thoughts on this DIY/handmade phenomena? How do you think it relates to capitalism? Is it a need to “nest”?
Crafting has been big since the seventies or even sixties and for me it has never been gone. I think it's through the internet, more people communicating around it and more possibilities to sell stuff that it just looks bigger. Because isn't it weird that all large stores in Holland have stopped selling yarn and other supplies? They had loads in the eighties and even their own pattern books. Now I read that in the US Wall-mart is going that direction too...
Posted by kkofibru on 2007-03-05 11:43:57
Post Subject: Craft Congress 2007 is here!
Local Contact: Kpoene' Kofi-Bruce 347-729-4326 or kkofibru@gmail.com
Pittsburgh, Pa. Contact: Gloria Forouzan, 412.583.8757 or gtforouzan@gmail.com
CRAFT CONGRESS IS IN SESSION
Indie/diy craft movement organizers holding first – ever worldwide conference
Craft Congress, the first-ever gathering of the diy/indie craft movement's leaders will be
held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on March 31 and April 1, 2007. The goal is to build
connections between the movement's organizers who have been primarily working in their
communities; Craft Congress attendees will share knowledge and experience, creating a
network and fostering the movement's growth.
Fifty participants from across the U.S., Canada, (and one from England), will attend this
gathering of leaders in the increasingly popular craft subculture. Many attendees will stay
in the homes of Pittsburgh hosts.
Local designer and organizer, Kpoene' Kofi-Bruce will be moderating a session on helping designers to sell - visit www.designleague.org.
Craft Congress is organized by the creators of Handmade Arcade,
(www.handmadearcade.com), Pittsburgh's first indie craft fair, which began in 2003. The
idea grew from the indie craft community that was forming across the country, primarily
via the internet. Countless websites, web stores, blogs and forums connect crafters. These
new crafters are mostly young women, in their 20's and 30's, who delight in combining
retro images with traditional craft techniques to produce practical items with an off-kilter,
humorous streak. There is no right or wrong. If anything, the movement is defined by its
eclecticism.
Knitting with Kool Aid dyed wool is new craft, using cocktail umbrellas to make lamp
shades is new craft, turning album covers into purses is new craft.
Fueled by internet relationships, the number of indie craft fairs across the U.S., has tripled
in recent years. Craft Congress' goal is to strengthen the indie craft community by sharing
ideas, experiences and discussing the future of indie crafting. Portions of the sessions will
be podcast for those who are not able to attend. Participants will discuss best practices
and explore ways to expand their markets, techniques for guerilla marketing, business
challenges, such as "big box" stores' attempts to rip off the diy aesthetic.
A recent survey of 100 indie crafters found that over 25% have recently switched from part
time crafting to full time. Almost 85% report their 2006 sales were up from 2005. They sell
via their own websites, (56%), at fairs (90%) and in brick and mortar stores (47%).
Details
When: Saturday, March 31 and Sunday, April 1, 2007
Where: Spinning Plate, 5720 Friendship Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15206.
#####
First Last City State Country Associate Group
Cristina Espiritu San Pedro CA USA indieentrepreneur.com
Rachel Hospodar San Francisco CA USA pandorastrunk.com
Sherry Huss Occidental CA USA CRAFT magazine & MAKE magazine
Marie Kare Sacramento CA USA www.homeofthesampler.com
Sara Dick Washington DC USA Crafty Bastards Arts and Crafts Fair & Craft Mutiny
Tamara Dourney Fort Pierce FL USA Independent Design and Craft Association /
Craft Revolution / Fort Pierce Craft Mafia
Shannon Mulkey Marietta GA USA Indie Craft Experience / Ice-atlanta.com /
ilovepatina.com
Christy Petterson Atlanta GA USA Indie Craft Experience / Ice-atlanta.com / co-
editor getcrafty.com
Amy Carlton Chicago IL USA DIY Trunk Show
Cinnamon Cooper Chicago IL USA DIY Trunk Show and Chicago Craft Mafia
Autumn Wiggins O'Fallon IL USA Strange Folk Festival
Mallory Whitfield New Orleans LA USA New Orleans Craft Mafia
Benjamin Claassen III Baltimore MD USA Crafty Bastards
Kimberly Dorn Baltimore MD USA Crafty Bastards
Rayne Grace Hoke Hollis Me USA Blissful Revolution Arts and Crafts Bazaar
Lish Dorset Plymouth MI USA Handmade Detroit / Detroit Urban Craft Fair
Stephanie Tardy Pleasant Ridge MI USA Handmade Detroit / Detroit Urban Craft
Fair
Kpoene Kofi-Bruce Brooklyn NY USA Ladies Independent Design League
www.designleague.org
Matthew Stinchcomb Brooklyn NY USA Etsy.com
Sarah Stoudt Brooklyn NY USA New York City Craft Mafia
Olivera Bratich Columbus OH USA Wholly Craft/ Columbus Craft Collective
Jesse Glover Columbus OH USA Craftin' Outlaws
Shannon Okey Cleveland OH USA Cleveland Bazaar Bizarre / anezkahandmade.com /
knit.1 magazine
Posted by SisterDG on 2007-01-25 14:07:09
Post Subject: New Crafty Website for Portland!
Hey, PDX crafters -
Come check out my new website, DIY Alert.com. (http://www.diyalert.com) It's a giant calendar of all the crafty events happening in P-Town, and a few choice destinations nearby. It encompasses classes, craft groups, craft fairs, conventions, book signings, and anything else crafty. You won't believe how much is going on in this town!
(Do you have an event or group that you'd like to list in the calendar? It's free! Just email me at sisterdiane@diyalert.com.)
Posted by Nancy Flynn on 2007-03-28 12:42:04
Post Subject:
Hi moderators! We've come up with a solution that I hope will work, at least as a transition-- we'll have a new section on the home page called "News & Events" which Christy & I will moderate. We will ask members to e-mail us with their exciting news (getting published, being on TV, etc) and events (craft fairs they are organizing etc) and post the information there. There will be no announcements about sales in people's shops or anything overtly commercial allowed (obviously craft shows are commercial, but more collective and of interest to more people), and since the information will be going through us before being posted, we can make sure that it is legit!
We may lock and phase out Girls Gone Crafty if it seems like the community approves (don't want to make too many changes at once!). We will try to find somewhere else for the "crafty business links" thread if we do this. I think we all do want to know about each other's crafty businesses, but need to find a better way to do it...
Posted by Katrin on 2005-02-24 00:47:00
Post Subject: Austin Craft Mafia?
My coworker just mentioned this to me today. The name sounds vaguely familiar, but I'm not sure if I've heard of it or seen it discussed here before. She says that SublimeStitcher and some other big-name craft people are in on it, and I told her that I "know" Jenny from these boards.
She (my coworker) and a few others are trying to get a similar group going here in Denver. They're scouting out venues to hold craft fairs at, but it sounds like they don't have very many people involved yet.
Can anyone give me any more background on the group? How about others in the Denver (Boulder, Ft. Collins, etc.) area who are interested too? It definitely sounds like something I'd like to join.
Posted by kitchensqueen on 2007-02-11 20:45:58
Post Subject: Crafter's Insurance & Permits
Okay, as many of you know, I'm the process of launching my Etsy site and fledgling crafts business, and I'm wondering about the legality of it all. A few questions:
-- Do I have to report Etsy earnings on my taxes?
-- If I am selling food products on Etsy or at farmer's markets, do I need food service certification or permits?
-- To sell at craft fairs or farmer's markets, do I need to hold limited liabilty insurance?
Posted by catherine on 2007-05-15 14:11:48
Post Subject: Online sales vs. Craft fairs sales
Hello I was just wondering if anyone has had more than a few sales of thier crafts online.
I have gone on a few crafters forums and have spoken to quite a few crafters on this subject. Most have stated that they don't sell well on the internet, but are very successful at craft fairs in such.
I have decided to try a craft fair, this spring and also started displaying my handmade dream catcher on my lawn and what do you know I sold 2 in off my lawn.
Posted by meexie on 2007-02-19 23:21:43
Post Subject: Re: Crafter's Insurance & Permits
-- Do I have to report Etsy earnings on my taxes?
Short version: yes. Depending on how much you make, you may or may not have to pay taxes on your Etsy earnings. To be on the safe side, report your earnings. I keep track of my costs and earnings with accounting software and do my taxes with Turbo Tax. This can also come in handy later on if, say, you want to get a loan from your bank to expand your small business.
Check with your state government to find out how to register your business name, get a tax license, etc. You can generally do this online.
-- If I am selling food products on Etsy or at farmer's markets, do I need food service certification or permits?
Again, check with your state gov't. You pretty much always need some kind of permit; the sort you will need can vary from state to state and sometimes on the situation (one-time deal or long-term). Whether you sell on Etsy or at a farmer's market, you'll need to find out what your state (and possibly city/county) requirements are, like having the heath department inspect your cooking site.
-- To sell at craft fairs or farmer's markets, do I need to hold limited liabilty insurance?
Check with the individual fair/market. On a related note, you can register your business as an LLC (Limited Liability Corporation) for certain legal benefits and protections.
Posted by Breezy90 on 2006-11-12 05:35:36
Post Subject: Your help please?
My daughter-in-law and I had plans of doing local craft fairs together. We had purchased lots of materials to prepare things for the upcoming holiday season. Before we could get much done, she became very ill and she recently left us to take her place in heaven.
My son is determined to get all her crafts finished but he isn't very crafty so my granddaughter and I are taking up the challenge. We have figured out most of her projects but there are a couple that have got us puzzled.
She had purchased a 1" dowel and had asked him to cut it for her but she hadn't told him how to cut it yet. She had also purchased several boxes of candy canes. We found her shopping list and saw she had written "candle holders" next to the dowel and candy canes. I can come up with some ideas but they don't seem to work into anything that would work as a candle holder. Can anyone think of a pattern she might have been using? Any help would really be appreciated. Thank you and God Bless.
Posted by shabby on 2007-06-02 15:48:23
Post Subject:
I finally gave up craft shows years ago, as I got older they got harder...hmmm, I wonder if there is correlation here ;-) So these days my only sales are online.
And I agree an online presence is good even if you don't sell as you can put the address on your business cards and hand them out to everyone and at leaset they can see your work.
Unfortunately a lot of people thing if they "build a website they will come", and that just isn't so unless one is incredible lucky or already has a wonderful following. Building an online business takes a lot of hard work self promoting.
I finally have had the time this winter to do just that and I'm starting to see my Etsy sales pick up. So it does work. But it is time consuming and I myself still have not found the right balance between studio time and computer time. It seems I'm spending way more time on the comptuer than in my studio.
I also started a blog last year and that has helped a lot. (Plus it's a lot of fun and I've met some way cool people!)
Craft fairs are great in that you are at a venue that is drawing people who are looking to buy crafts and you get to talk to people about your craft. I think it wouldn't hurt to do both. Don't put all the eggs in one basket so to speak. :-)
Posted by cassiemae on 2006-03-02 19:24:27
Post Subject: Mommy Makes Roses on Etsy
Mommy Makes Roses will now be selling on Etsy. www.mommymakesroses.com will be used as a gallery to show roses that will be sold at local craft fairs and art walks,etc. in the Seattle Metro area.
Take a peek, you'll like what you see!
Posted by SusanR on 2006-10-15 17:31:31
Post Subject:
I've done 2 craft fairs before and have talked to people in booths near me that sold organic soaps. One woman said that when she starting putting out demos of her soaps/lotions that were in pump-bottles, it nearly tripled her sales.
If your bath goodies are in bar form, however, that might be a bit difficult.
As for quantity, bring as much as you can the first day. Depending on your area and quality of your product, you could easily sell out. I sold home-made piggy banks at my first craft fair and sold out in 3 hours. I had to drive home (an hour away) and lost nearly 3 hours where I could have been selling more.
After the first day you'll have a good idea as to how well your product will sell, but it's better to bring extra then to be stuck without any supply!
Posted by AbbieRoad on 2008-02-14 18:06:50
Post Subject:
Seriously! I''ve been wanting to do something like this for years, partly because I think it would be fun - partly because I get so fed up at *normal* craft fairs that end up having non handmade things, and partly because I want to meet up with other crafters!
Anyway - here''s the site:
<a> http://www.HandmadeFaire.com </a>
It''s in Ocean County, NJ - if you''re anywhere nearby - get a table! It''s only $40, there is onside lodging at a very reasonable price -
and!!!! All our proceeds go to Natural Resource Education Foundation (essentially - saving the Barnegat Bay & the critters that live there)
I''m on myspace too -
<a>http://www.myspace.com/handmadefaire</a>
I know this thread was made up a while ago - but if anybody pops in - I hope you''re interested!
Posted by Jennyholiday on 2004-11-05 15:10:22
Post Subject: neeeeeed a craft show/fair in NYC or NJ..know of any???
Does anyone know of any good craft fairs coming up for the holidays??? I'm in NJ....not far from NYC....I am sooo jealous of them girls in Chicago.......Wicker Park is having all the fun!!!!!!!
Posted by bennieriot on 2006-03-17 14:13:10
Post Subject:
thanks for the advice, gals.
I really like the idea about offering free shipping. You're right. there definitely are ways to get around it.
I make all of my money at trunk shows and craft fairs (it's not bad money, either). This was the first time I decided to go the retail route because I thought the benefits of having exposure outweighed the actual profit.
It's turning out to be a little more trouble than its worth, maybe...
Posted by Rosanna Nevius on 2005-04-14 14:30:54
Post Subject:
Actually, I am very lucky that my stepson's girlfirend is a Graphic Artist and she laid out a very cute "catalog" or "sample book" using my pictures. I'm not real happy with how my purses look in the pictures. They are so much cuter in person :). I'd love to hire someone to do pictures but that is not fiscally possible.
My experience with cold calling is that boutique owners are always looking for something to set them apart from someone else...so they are generally receptive to taking a look at what you've got. And, eventhough handbag designers are a dime a dozen on the internet, it's very possible there aren't alot in the area that you live. I'm only in two stores now but if everything pans out, by fall I should be in 10 and that would be all that I can handle presently.
Do I make enough? Not really, but, once I am known and have been selling well, I'll start edging my prices up. I definately make more online or at craft fairs.
Posted by stella on 2006-11-13 16:05:51
Post Subject:
i agree with yardenxanthe. i don't think everyone who buys handcrafts is looking for a disposable item, i think some people are willing to pay top prices for something beautiful and well made. but, you have to set yourself up where they will find you! instead of huge christmas bazaars, try finding boutiques or small artist fairs that cater to, well, rich people.
i don't sell my stuff, but i grew up with a mom who sold her art, and she always did better in high-end shops, even consigning, than at craft fairs.
Posted by micrafty on 2006-11-24 11:37:40
Post Subject:
Maybe make up a few pieces and see if any local restaurants, shops, or even offices would like to display them. This is done all the time with paintings, why not centerpieces and wreaths?
I wonder about craft fairs when multiple people sell similar things. I've seen where the cheapest one wins, the best looking booth wins, the most clever designs win, the best quality wins, and the most congenial seller wins - it is truly dependent on the venue and even the weather (it puts us in a different state of mind on a pretty day or gray, cloudy day).
As someone who watched themselves outsold by price alone, by someone with a very less quality of product; it does tend to feed on itself. You watch the other booth and your dander raises and so does the scowl on your face. Not saying this was you - but, it certainly was me and is easy to do. Customers pick up on the scowl and think she's unfriendly - regardless of how nice you might be.
To be honest, when I look at buying a centerpiece, I don't need the seller to tell me that they use quality materials - I can tell that by looking at them. Some florals simply look like crap and others look so real you have to touch them to know they aren't. Perhaps instead of focussing on high quality focus on classy or something that sells a mood or emotion?
Posted by Christy Petterson on 2005-08-25 08:29:44
Post Subject:
we bought a matrix almost 3 years ago and I love it!
i can't tell how many people were in the car on delqc's skiiing trip (3 or 4?) and I guess in that situation it would seem cramped....BUT we have hauled a lot of stuff in our car. my husband is a drummer and he can get a TON of stuff in the back with the seats down. he can even haul all his stuff with just one seat down and then have a band mate in the back and me up front. and then there's craft fairs....we can just load it all up no problem. there's usually just the two of us up front, but we have made trips with 4 people in the car and our luggage in the hatch back....these weren't big trips where you'd be taking lots of stuff but there's room for everyone's suitcase and a little extra stuff.
the one we bought was the lot demo car so we got a good deal but that also meant it wasn't 100% new. i totally recommend it--it'd be nice if it were just a little more fuel efficient but it isn't a guzzler.
another cool thing is that it really is quite compact on the outside...we have to parallel park where we live and it can fit into some pretty cramped spots.
Posted by rgraceh on 2007-01-29 07:20:49
Post Subject: Try craft fairs & craft malls
I just joined so I am new to seeing your stuff, but it is really cute. You should try craft fairs in your area. Our church hosts one annually and I have been in charge of the vendors and also had a booth and sold stuff. I can safely say that in our area, there would be a good chance that you''d do quite well. Also, get a space in a craft mall in your area. I think your stuff looks really cute. I also sew and I really like your baby items.
Posted by erinina on 2006-11-08 18:25:47
Post Subject:
hello and welcome! don't worry about the english - nihongo wa amari hanase masen (i tried to do that phonetically - hope you understand what i meant!).
i don't have much advice for you either, but i checked out your website and love your bags. one of my favorite bag companies here in new york city is yukiko sato. they are a bunch of japanese girls (including yukiko sato herself - she went to JOSHIBI) who show their work at craft fairs, shopping parties, and sample sales. i think that is how they started, and now they have a great website and i think even a store. their link is www.yukikosato.com . if you are thinking about coming to the us, maybe you could contact them!
i agree with cackalackie - most people your age have no idea...i went back to school and graduated when i was 26, and still find it difficult to figure out. i have a regular job, but am trying to be a full-time illustrator. my regular job pays the bills! funny thing is, i'm thinking about learning more japanese and moving there! i went to kyushu (yamakuni and fukuoka) and tokyo in august and fell in love with nihon!
Posted by cassie on 2008-05-18 11:07:08
Post Subject: What are you making?
I've been making tote bags galore for ages for craft fairs but recently I've been doing cushions, headbands and different bag styles.
I've also bleached a bright pink T-shirt and it's now a really pale colour with the pink overlocking thread showing through - it looks really cool! I want to alter it even further to make it into a vest style top and then I'll take pictures.
I want to make some buntin for my next craft stall this week and maybe my name in plushie letters!
Posted by brdgt on 2006-10-02 22:16:49
Post Subject:
My dad: Never really taught me anything directly, but he worked in construction so I grew up around everything that entailed. Carpentry, car repair, plumbing, electrical work, etc. - none of that intimidates me and if I have to call in a professional I can handle myself around them. My husband on the other hand? Terrified of mechanics :)
My Mom: Family vacations were craft fairs when I was growing up. She did leatherwork and was trained as a professional seamstress. Again, she never was inclined to teach me these things directly, but you pick things up and you grow up around that ethos. She is also an amazing gardener and while I have a black thumb with houseplants, I do very well with anything grown outdoors.
My biggest crafty influence as far someone who actually took the time to teach me specific things was definitely my grandmother. My parents sent me to stay with her for a week every year when they went deer hunting. She taught me knitting, needlepoint, cooking, etc. It felt like a new craft every year. A lot of things I forgot as I got older, but luckily she is one determined woman and is still alive and alert at 97 so I was able to go back to her when I wanted to relearn how to knit at 27.
Posted by brdgt on 2005-07-28 19:58:53
Post Subject: Craft Fair Etiquette
I know a lot of people on getcrafty have experience with craft fairs. I for one grew up going to half a dozen a year with my mother (she did tooled leather) and I still love to go to them. The last one we went to my husband talked about how guilty he feels because he's not buying something from everyone. I always just make sure to compliment what I like even if I'm not buying it, so the vendor has an idea of what appeals to people. I also try to make eye contact and say hi to each vendor.
So, what's your craft fair etiquette? From the vendors - what do you like people to say/do (other than buy ;)? From the buyers, what do you think is good craft fair etiquette? Horror stories? Favorite types of craft fairs/bazaars/flea markets?
Posted by sweetpea on 2005-07-28 20:11:02
Post Subject:
I guess what kills me at craft fairs is when someone says "I could make that, and for less money" right within earshot. That's kinda frustrating. People who wink and say "I'll be back!" and never return are also disheartening. Maybe they meant to, but in my experience it's a pretty rare bird that reappears.
That said, I do like compliments (who doesn't?) and I think my favorite was when someone commented that my finishing work on my bags was excellent. It's nice when someone who has an eye for what you do thinks you do it well :) The people who make a point of saying hello also brighten my day; the ones that try not to make eye contact are a tad unnerving.
Anyway, that's my two cents. I like doing craft fairs, but they certainly are exhausting. Holiday fairs seem to be the best; and so far my experience has suggested that city fair and country fair actually even out about the same.
Posted by lizzymahoney on 2005-07-30 13:23:08
Post Subject:
I'm not a Pollyanna. I get pissed off with surprising speed and unpredictability, but outside of a situation I can usually see multiple sides to it.
Someone walking by who says, "Oh, I could make that!" is generally not meaning it as denigration to the crafter. It could be that speaker is trying to impress a companion, or is trying to justify to herself why she shouldn't buy something. Yeah, it is a mean thing to say, but I don't think the intent is to malign. If you had a chatting relationship with the woman, or had exchanged greetings, she might be more inclined to say, "Gee I wish I had the time, I have this great machine at home and scads of fabric that I just don't get to. I bet that never happens to you..." And you can laugh and say, "You wouldn't think so, would you? But don't look in my boxes at my unfinished projects, and you don't want to be behind me at the cutting table when there is a sale on."
There is something I make that I never see made to the level of artistry i attain. I'll see versions of it every year, everywhere, but will take one look at the white pine cones and think, "Ew, you are in for major trouble once it gets warmer..." It took a few months and lots of effort forty years ago to learn what I needed to know about the materials I was using. Technique has changed, and I'm pretty adaptable to new base material, but I'm still way ahead of most people on concept and execution. This also comes from being in an extended family where artsy cousins were working with the same materials and we exchanged ideas and raw materials. There is no time when I see this sort of thing in craft fairs or high end boutiques that I don't know I could have done it way better. I just never say so.
I don't talk to every booth owner/operator. I may just nod as I come in, nod as I leave. Sometimes a wink and a smile. Sometimes a comment on something I find particularly lovely, or a question about the origin of the materials. I may ask for a card, but I always have notepaper and pen to write down whatever I need, such as where this dealer is showing next or if they ever work in spalted wood. I may give information such as, "Check out the rock and gem shop on Ferncreek, hidden behind an automotive body repair."
I may also tell someone that their quality and pricing is out of my league for now, but I'd like to see more when my finances improve.
Some of our regional craft fairs are trying for world recognition. This makes it hard to shop with the huge crowds. I will walk through as people are setting up and make note of who I need to revisit before the crowds get thick.
Posted by elizwong on 2005-12-22 16:33:19
Post Subject:
I have an online shop and have stuff on consignment and also sell through craft fairs. This is our third year in business. I have a BFA in Ceramics, but don't do any ceramics anymore (at one point I wanted to be a potter). My husband who is also part of the business is self-taught. Owning a shop seems way too complicated for me... I don't like the business part of the business enough to take that step. We both work full time and it's a challenge sometimes to juggle both.
Posted by quornflour on 2006-01-21 23:33:13
Post Subject:
I have a natural knee jerk reaction to the word craft. It makes me think of Church Basement craft fairs of my childhood...
I prefer textile arts, seemstress, or other more specific words.
However, since the word id defined as:
craft
n.
Skill in doing or making something, as in the arts; proficiency. See Synonyms at art1.
Skill in evasion or deception; guile.
An occupation or trade requiring manual dexterity or skilled artistry.
The membership of such an occupation or trade; guild.
pl. craft A boat, ship, or aircraft.
tr.v. craft·ed, craft·ing, crafts
To make by hand.
Usage Problem. To make or construct (something) in a manner suggesting great care or ingenuity: “It was not the Chamber of Commerce that crafted the public policies that have resulted in a $26 billion annual subvention to the farmers” (William F. Buckley, Jr.).
I am getting over my aversion to the word craft, but it is hard.
Posted by lilpawsrescue on 2008-03-04 20:08:45
Post Subject:
I am in Jackson Center (near Bellefontaine area). I travel to Cincy and Columbus for the rescue... We are always looking for craft fairs to go to. We make our own items to sell to raise money for the foster pups in our care.
Posted by uproar on 2005-04-13 15:18:40
Post Subject:
If you live in a city or large community, make free weekly newspapers your friend! (I'm assuming most cities have some form of this.) Look for interesting things to do such as craft fairs/art markets/flea markets, theme nights at local bars or clubs, locals specials at museums and other tourist sites. If you live someplace with public transport, you could always get lost on purpose, hopping from bus to bus (or streetcar, train, subway, etc), and explore parts of your city you normally wouldn't visit.
If you are friends with another couple or two, go on double dates or group dates. Activities like rollerskating, iceskating or bowling are good for this.
Dress up in silly outfits or costumes and run around your city's business district, just to turn heads. Or dress up and have a Mad Hatter tea party!
Posted by kissmyknitz on 2005-04-21 14:49:24
Post Subject: Philadelphia SnB meet-ups
Would all the Philadelphia ladies like to decide on a day every week/month to get together? 5 of us have done Sunday afternoons in random places, but there are also some who would like to meet Tuesday nights at 8 at the Last Drop (13 & Pine). Imput here please!!! (Suggestion: one or two Sunday afternoons a month, and every Tuesday night?)
For the $$-minded craftistas, anyone want to plan/share a table at the Punk Rock Flea Market (is that the right name) later this summer? Or any other craft fairs?
Posted by brdgt on 2004-06-23 09:57:32
Post Subject:
I've never done them myself, but I grew up at them - my mother did leatherwork and traveled to at least 4 craft fairs a year. I love the culture of the craft fair, the swapping between vendors, the sharing of ideas, and the traveling.
Posted by CraftinFool on 2004-06-22 16:31:11
Post Subject: Ever do craft fairs?
Has anyone done craft fairs? What did you sell? Did you make much? Did you enjoy it?
I'm partly curious and partly seriously thinking about selling things at local fairs. Of course, I haven't actually figured out what I'd sell or anything.
Posted by appleseeds on 2006-04-23 22:50:46
Post Subject:
I would have to say Portland, Oregon!! I just moved from there (totally didn't want to and miss it tons!)...they even have Church of Craft there and tons of craft fairs/trunk sales..it pretty much rules. And on top of that it's such an amazing inspiring place, my creative juices have never flowed so freely and I've lived in Tampa, Atlanta, Miami and New York...not that those are particularly crafty places.
Posted by CraftyChicaAZ on 2004-06-24 00:59:30
Post Subject:
i love doing craft fairs! but you really have to find the right ones for you. i do mexican-y art and i've been at several that wanted the cutesy country stuff. so i was the weird booth. now i do research and check them all out before i sign up.
Posted by Katrin on 2005-07-30 14:49:24
Post Subject:
All this advice is really informative. I've never participated in a craft fair, only attended them, and many of these things wouldn't have occurred to me.
I do often think (or say) "I could make that" - but I certainly hope I've never said it within earshot of the person who made it. And I always remember that even though I could have made something, that person actually did make it, not just once but many times over, and is making money from it. I admire and envy those with that ability, because it's something I haven't learned yet.
I at least understand that it's not cool to take photos of other people's creations. But here's a question: What about taking notes? I sometimes do this - more often in retail stores than at craft fairs. I like looking at things that I wouldn't buy for whatever reason (too expensive, don't want to support that store's politics, etc.) but that I might like to make for myself.
If you saw someone looking at your crafts and writing down descriptions, would you be offended? Would you ask why they're doing it? If they assured you it was just for ideas for their own use or inspiration to do something different but similar - not to rip off and sell - would you be okay with that? (Would you even believe them?)
Posted by sarabell on 2005-07-29 14:24:41
Post Subject:
i always feel really bad when i go into a booth and am just completely uninterested or turned off by their work and really have nothing to say. what's the best way to deal with that? i just smile and tell them to have a good one.
unfortunately, i am guilty of saying (though definitely NOT within earshot!) that i could just make it myself. of course, it's rare that i ever do so! my main issue with craft fairs is just the fact that it is rare that things are actually reasonably priced. when i have done the few small shows i've participated in, i try to keep my prices fair, so people can actually buy instead of look. sure, i could make more $$ per item, but i've found that i have made more $$ total when i price things on the low side. of course, it all depends on the demographic..... i've had many people tell me that i priced my stuff too low, but then if i had priced it higher, would they have bought nearly as much?!? i just try to set prices with my cheapskate mindset - "what would i be willing to pay for this?" rather than "what could i get for this?" sorry for the little rant, but it's discouraging to go to a show and come out empty-handed because everything you liked was way too pricey!
Posted by brdgt on 2006-05-01 08:33:14
Post Subject:
Madison is a pretty crafty city. It has some great yarn stores, The Glitter Workshop sells DIY artists on consignment and hosts several craft fairs a year at a local bar, our farmer's market is huge, and as one of the most liberal cities in the country you are going to get your fair share of the DIY ethic and anti-corporate options (for example, there are several co-ops and locally owned small grocery stores and in addition to the large weekly farmer's market on the capital square each side of town has a smaller version). There are also a lot of sheep and wool festivals in the summer. I belong to two crafting groups and was just invited to join another - the only problem is finding the time to go to meetings.
Despite the cold (but not really much snow) people love the outdoors here. Biking is incredibly popular (and I usually count at least half a dozen hybrids on any given shopping trip). I think Madison was one of the first cities to have a CSA program. The city is on an isthmus between two lakes and has a public terrace designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The city also actively controls sprawl and building codes (no building can be taller than the capital and businesses get incentives for building in the downtown area).
Milwaukee seems rather crafty as well - I've been to some yarn stores out there and a great craft fair (run by one of our getcrafty ladies).
Posted by riotous lioness on 2007-02-17 14:33:26
Post Subject:
As a new member, I can say I basically don't read it. I like the idea of being able to buy from someone I know, so to speak, but I do know how to get to etsy and I do have craft fairs I can get to if I don't know someone.
I guess that's a slightly rambly way to say that I agree.
Posted by delqc on 2005-08-01 12:37:36
Post Subject:
If someone is grabbing pics of your work, why not grab a pic of them doing it (with a flash so they know you've done it). Ha. Then if they start making knockoffs, you have some evidence against them. Plus, it will probably kill their bravery.
The etiquette questions parallel get crafty to some extent. People post their work in their blogs for others to scrutinize. We ask for help in finding suppliers, and in material suggestions. Some of us may even compete with each other in selling merchandise on Etsy (or elsewhere) ... I guess it's different scrutinizing from a pic as opposed to the real thing in front of you. I guess what I'm getting at is what are the etiquette parallels from the craft shows to get crafty?
Also, I am guilty of shopping and saying, "oh I could totally make this!" but usually it's in a big store and not from a small vendor selling their own wares. I don't attend many craft fairs, but when I do I am most often astounded by the workmanship in areas that I know so little about and could never hope to attain.
If I do see work similar to mine (in the needle arts for example) I will look closely, and ask questions. I do sometimes see items that I consider poorly made - but I would never rudely say so in front of a vendor. And if I saw something that was similar to things I have done, by definition it would be expensive: I put a lot of time and good materials into the things I make, and that costs money. And of course I could make it for cheaper - I would not have to spend $ to pay for labor. But, someone else's labour is worth more just as much as my own.
Where am I going with this? Hmmm ... I guess maybe if someone says, "I could make this for less!" we should remember that knock-offs are rarely made with good quality, so the person is probably simply being naieve! And hey, copying IS the highest form of flattery!
Posted by Nancy Flynn on 2007-03-28 15:45:26
Post Subject:
hello fellow craftistas-- just wanted to update you on how we're going to move forward:
*we'll be starting a new area on the home page for News & Events,
*This area will be for exciting news (i.e. a community member who is getting published, is going to be on TV, etc.) and events (craft fairs, crafty contests) the community should know about.
*This area will be moderated by Christy and me-- we will ask that you e-mail us with your news and events and we will post appropriate information (more details on this when we launch).
In addition, we'd love to get your feedback on starting a new forum specifically to talk about crafty business-- NOT advertisements, but discussion and feedback for the crafty entrepreneurs among us. The "crafty business links" thread would live in this new area as a reference point for people looking to "shop craftista."
From the feedback on this thread, it sounds like the community agrees that getcrafty is NOT a place for free advertising, and it makes sense to take a firm stand on that.
to that end, in the future:
*The Girls Gone Crafty forum may be locked and phased out
*From that point forward, anything that can be considered a blatant advertisement may be deleted by the moderators
please do post your thoughts & concerns on this thread-- we want a solution that the majority of the community can agree on happily.
Posted by copacetic on 2004-10-03 13:56:15
Post Subject:
* a cleaner, bigger, more organized sewing room!
* someone to take my crafts around to local boutiques and to sit for me at craft fairs 'cause i'm super-shy when meeting new people so i have a hard time doing this!
* a magical way to fuse interfacing to any fabric i desire...like a magic wand or something i can wave! ;) ta-da!!!
Posted by sewing stars on 2004-06-28 09:21:26
Post Subject:
I think right now there is a big overall crafty movement from the generation x'rs. A show with various crafty types showing their 'twist' on things would be pretty awesome. Showcasing craft fairs like the rengade craft fair, bizzare bazaar in boston & l.a., etc. would be pretty interesting too.
Posted by redheadedali on 2004-10-12 11:43:08
Post Subject:
i'm in! :-)
Cool :). I have a couple of craft fairs at the beginning of November, and I will be mad busy until then and not able to do much on this anyway, so why don't we say that anyone who wants to participate should post by November 6, and then I'll get the exchanges arranged based on the number of people who join up. If you have a preference between doing a one-to-one swap or a round robin, include that in your post.
Posted by freecraftfair on 2007-10-18 14:11:55
Post Subject: Hi - New here
Just thought I'd send out a little introduction.
I'm a WAHM to a 3yo and a 5yo - I started crafting years ago when I was in college. My dh and I made all kinds of things and sold them at the local and college craft fairs. My husband's talent is in art, photography, and clay figurines, while mine is candies and chocolates. Never a main source of income, it certainly helped the Christmas Fund.
Then life went on, I became a teacher, and I was no longer crafting to sell. Only close friends and family received our work. A friend who knew my past asked me to help her get started selling at craft fairs. Well, one thing led to another, and pretty soon I had created a website to help her. That was almost 4 years ago... Now my website is my main focus, and I am on the promotion end of the crafting business.
Either way, I love to meet new crafters. The talents that are out there are just amazing. I look forward to working with you all.
Posted by KonichiwaKay on 2008-09-23 17:56:51
Post Subject:
Hi everyone! I''m Kaylynne and I live in Colorado. I''m 18 and a freshman and a fine arts major in college. I like to make jewelry, knit, crochet, scrapbook, and sew. Right now I''m designing and making a bunch of products to sell at craft fairs and on Etsy (gotta repay those student loans somehow, might as well make the money doing something I love :P).
I always enjoy meeting fellow crafters and learning different crafty skills!
