How to Sell at Craft Shows and Artisan Markets Without Spending a Fortune 

Your art is your passion, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be a good way to earn some extra income as well. Perhaps you’ve already invested in classes from The Sewing Room and now thinking about getting a start selling your products at local craft shows and artisan markets. These outlets can be a wonderful way to connect with your community. But before you start making any money, you need to put some effort into the following basic steps to set up your business and ensure success. As you venture into selling at craft shows and artisan markets, considering a more formal business structure could be beneficial. Exploring top-rated llc formation services might be a smart investment to help provide your business with legal protection and credibility, without breaking the bank.

Use Coupons to Save Money on Displays

Visual merchandising insight is crucial if you want to really “wow” customers at crowded markets and pop-ups. You need to start your merchandising and display plan by figuring out your target audience. Keep these customers in mind as you set up your display, but also use common retail tricks, like having a fun theme, grouping items into arrays of three, and allowing customers to touch products. If you need to pick up some displays or merchandising tools to attract more customers, you can do so without going over budget by shopping online from eBay or Amazon and using cash back offers to make items more affordable. 

Process Mobile Payments from Your Cell Phone 

In the past, you needed expensive credit card machines and plenty of change to satisfy market customers. With mobile hotspots, however, buying additional equipment is a thing of the past. A mobile hotspot allows you to process credit card payments and access other handy web features from just about anywhere without worrying about draining your phone’s battery and relying on spotty and unsecured WiFi networks at craft shows. You will also need a reliable method for processing credit card payments. Mobile card readers are available from various providers, so do your homework to see which one makes financial sense for your business. 

Accent Merchandise Displays with Attractive Signage 

In addition to product displays, you should think about having signage printed to raise awareness of your brand. The elements of brand identity include things like logos and signage — all of which can help your target customers really connect with you and your products. If you do not currently have a logo and plan to sell on a regular basis, consider whether DIY or professional services will best fit your needs. A graphic designer is the best option for custom logos, and you may even be able to barter services from fellow artists. However, if you can’t afford a graphic designer, you can always use your own skills and a logo generator instead. 

Ensure That All Products Are Priced Clearly and Appropriately 

Proper pricing is another critical step for success with local markets. Before you begin putting tags on your products, do some research to see what similar products are currently selling for online. Also, take into account the cost of materials used in your arts and crafts, as well as your time. Keep in mind that some customers at markets may try to haggle. How you handle hagglers is up to you, but if you are not entirely put off by lowering your asking prices, be sure to calculate the lowest price you can accept without cutting into your profits. 

Take Steps to Operate As A Real For Your Peace of Mind (and the Benefits)

You may only be selling your art on a part-time basis, but even if art shows are just a side hustle for you, you will still need to pay taxes on your earnings. If you’ll be setting up a booth at an art show soon, you’ll want to tackle a few business-related tasks before you go! From determining a realistic business budget to getting your receipts organized to setting up an LLC for your business, you’ll be glad that you checked these items off of your to-do list.

Why establish your art business as an LLC? This business structure will safeguard your personal assets while allowing for plenty of flexibility and granting you certain tax breaks. When filing for an LLC, California has its own set of regulations, so to save time and money, you can work with an online formation service.

Selling arts and crafts at local events, markets, and festivals can be quite simple. Plus, you don’t need a huge investment to get started, especially when you have a handy guide like this one. Just put your creativity to work when setting up your booth and table, put your best face forward for potential customers, and offer products your target customers will love. Best of luck and be sure to check out The Sewing Room’s Fashion Studies course and other classes to get a head start on your passion!

Photo Credit: Pexels & Canva