How to Sell at Craft Fairs and Shows
Turn your art or craft hobby into a business by using the craft fair and show circuit to expose your work to a wide range of potential customers.
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You Will Need
- Art or craft items
- Fair or show application
- Cash or credit card machine
- Signs
- Display equipment
- Bags
- Canopy for outdoor shows
- Promotional materials
Steps
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Step 1
Target shows
Target shows and fairs which complement your work. Look for items of similar quality and pricing, ample booth space, and any needed utilities.
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Non-juried shows accept vendors on a first-come basis and are easier to gain entry than juried shows.
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Step 2
Submit show application
Submit a show application, making sure you follow instructions, meet deadlines, and include fees or any other requested item.
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Step 3
Decide payment methods
Decide how you will accept payment. Have a credit card machine, or have cash in small bills.
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Step 4
Take a variety of items
Take a variety of items to sell at craft fairs and shows, bringing twice as much as you think you may sell to avoid running short on product.
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Step 5
Pack and arrange
Pack your work, signs, table, a calculator, a chair, a canopy for outdoor craft fairs and shows, and items to demonstrate your skills. Arrange an attractive booth on site.
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Step 6
Market yourself
Market yourself at fairs and shows with a professional image, business cards and promotional, brochures, and don't forget to sell your work with a smile.
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Use shows to gather customer information to build a mailing list for future promotions.
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Step 7
Keep sales records
Keep sales records and document expenses for tax purposes and to evaluate profit levels at specific shows. Take heart if your first show fails to generate strong profits. Try again until you master the show success formula.
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In 2010, Pablo Picasso's 1932 Nude, Green Leaves, and Bust sold at auction for $106.4 million, becoming the world's most expensive painting.
