Craft Show Overview

So, you want to do a craft show. Whether a seasoned veteran or a first timer, there are a lot of ways to prepare for your big day. You will first need to choose what show to attend. There are many craft shows, farmer’s markets, and flea markets to choose from. Ask any fellow crafter and they will tell you the best show to go to, but it is really just a matter of personal preference and most importantly budget.

A great way for beginners to start is to set up at a small craft show or church bazaar. Booths are very inexpensive, because the gatherings are usually small. Don’t let the size fool you, though! A small craft show has many, many benefits. First, there aren’t as many vendors there, so it is very likely that what you are selling will be unique. Also, customers who attend those types of markets are likely to be repeat customers, especially if they live in the same area as you do.

One of the best things about these small markets is that it is so inexpensive to set up shop. Booth rent can range from $10-20 per day or for the entire weekend in some cases. So even if it doesn’t go well by some chance, you will not have a lot of costs to make up for. It is especially good for beginners because it will give you a chance to make any changes that you need and to perfect your display for the larger markets.

Some great ways to find out about small craft markets near you is to look in the classified or events section of your local newspaper. You can also call around to different churches and see if they are having any bazaars or festivals coming up. Another great resource is schools. Many schools, even colleges, put on small craft shows. These shows are usually around the Christmas season, although you can see them anytime. Many times, they can be fairly busy, which is very good for your business!

Another great outlet for selling your crafts are flea markets and farmers markets. Booth rent for these markets is also very inexpensive, so it is also great for first timers. One of the only drawbacks is that you may not be able to sell your products at full price. But if you don’t mind selling your products a little cheaper than usual, you can do very well at these places. I love going to flea markets and selling at discount prices. It makes it easier for people to buy and test them. When they love the products that I make, they don’t mind paying a little more on my website or at a different show that I may attend.

Last but not least, you have your large advertised craft shows. Some can be relatively inexpensive, about $50-100 for the weekend. However some can be very, very pricey, reaching upwards of $700. These craft shows usually have a very large customer attendance, and are usually found in the fall or around Christmas, but some are at other times during the year.

Many of these shows require you to fill out an application and send in pictures of your products, and there is a lot of competition for good booths. If you can set up at a craft show like this, chances are you will do very well. Since these shows are for serious crafts people, you may sell your products for retail price. Some of these shows have free admission for customers, but many of them charge the public a few dollars admission to attend or they may charge for parking. In a way this is good for you because the people that pay admission are usually serious about purchasing items.

Another great thing is that these shows are usually during the holiday season, so there will be lots and lots of holiday shoppers. We all know how hard it is to go holiday shopping, and many people are desperate for the perfect presents for their friends and families. Gift baskets are an especially great item to offer at these shows. Any holiday theme products are great, too. If you plan to set up at these craft shows or are interested in more information, feel free to read on to the other articles. They are filled with useful information.