Six Crafty Venues To Promote Your Hand Made Craft Business
December 4th, 2008

You are the creator of lovely and impressive hand made crafts that always draw their share of glances. So you've decided that you want to start selling your hand made crafts and launch your own business, but you aren't sure where to start. Here's a list of six crafty venues to promote your craft business:

1. Get started with home parties. By far the easiest way to get your feet wet is by hosting a home party to promote your hand made craft business. Start by inviting close friends, family members, and co-workers who are supportive and have previously expressed an interest in your craft. You might want to consider putting on a demonstration, if this is feasible. Most people enjoy watching craftspeople at work, and this is no exception.

A home party is a good way to unofficially announce that you are in business. Enlist the help of your guests by asking them to spread the word about your new endeavor to anyone who might be interested. Create or purchase unique party favors, and attach your business cards to them.

2. Craft or Street Fairs. Another great starting point to launch your hand made craft business is by renting a booth at a local craft or street fair. Craft fairs generally receive a lot of street traffic, and are a great meeting point for individuals who like and appreciate handcrafted gifts and items. Have business cards printed up and give them out during the fair.

If you are just starting out, you may want to avoid the craft fairs that are aimed at more established businesses, as their booth rental fees can be quite high. Instead, focus on smaller fairs where you'll receive an equal share of attention, and where fees are generally more manageable.

3. Nonprofit agencies or local charities. Consider donating some of your crafts to your favorite nonprofit agency or local charity. This allows you to meet new people and make important contacts while doing something positive for your community. Donating your crafts can also boost your confidence in your work. Knowing that someone is enjoying your craft can add a whole new dimension to your business.

4. Set up your website and online store. These days, almost all well-established craftspeople sell their wares online. Setting up your own website is easier than ever. Provide potential customers with descriptions and large, clear pictures of your crafts. Be certain that your website is updated frequently.

The internet is also important in connecting with other members of the arts and crafts community. The internet has been instrumental in perpetuating a vibrant community of craftspeople. Websites dedicated to crafts and the business of crafts are innumerable, with busy bulletin boards and e-mail newsletters always going in full force. Become familiar with these valuable internet resources, and learn to use them to your advantage.

5. Brick and mortar retail stores. If you're serious about promoting your hand made crafts business, consider visiting a retail crafts store that carries items similar to your own. Make an appointment to meet with the store manager. Discuss your burgeoning business, and ask if the store would be willing to help you by carrying your products.

If the store personnel seem hesitant, try to reach a compromise. Ask them to carry your product for a limited run, just to see how customers react to your work. Even if the store decides not to carry your crafts, you will have received invaluable feedback on your work. Always be courteous and professional when dealing with store personnel-you're craft business depends on these kinds of professional relationships.

6. Open your own retail store. Yes, this is a big step, but if you're serious about your craft business, and you seem to be steadily growing, you may come to point where you will consider opening up your very own retail store. Remember that a large percentage of small businesses fail in their first year. You'll want to consider this decision very carefully, and make sure there's a market for the type of crafts you produce. Selling your home made crafts on a part-time basis is one thing, but running your own store full-time is quite another

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