From jewelry to decorations, the options for crafts are endless. Do you have a talent for crafting? Have you ever thought about selling your unique craft items? It might be easier than you think! Many people prefer unique handmade items over factory-made goods. And you could be the one selling them those goods.
You will have many roles in your crafting business. Youll not only be a crafter, but also an advertiser, a salesperson, and a customer service specialist. Many of these skills will help you later in life. The creativity and hard work you put into your crafts can make your business dreams come true!
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Many people learn crafting skills through family members, friends, or by taking classes. Learn other crafts by reading books or watching online videos. But nothing perfects your skills like practice.
Chapter 1
Create the Next Craft Craze
What Craft to Make?
You may already have a great idea for your craft business. If not, what kinds of crafts do you like making? Or better yet, what things interest you? If you like being on your phone, maybe youd like to make cell phone cases. If you have good penmanship, maybe you could showcase your talent by making decorative signs.
Will your craft item be wearable, useful, or just nice to look at? Wearable creations can be anything from jewelry to clothing. Useful crafts are things such as handbags, shelves, or scarves. But some customers are drawn to crafts just because they are beautiful or unique. Theyll buy creations that can hang on their walls or be displayed in their yards.
Maybe its time to try a new craft technique or use different materials. Are there extra things around your house that could be used to create something wonderful? Maybe there are old game pieces, food containers, or CDs that can be re-purposed. Look in the recycling bin or in nature for possible craft materials.
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Still stumped? Think about the things you and your friends like to buy. Could you create them instead?
Borrowed Inspiration
If youre still stuck on what craft to make, look at the handiwork of others. Use their creations as a starting point for your own work. Look online, in books, or at craft fairs to see whats popular. Etsy, an online craft store, is a great place to start your search. But remember not to copy anyone elses products. Many crafters use the basic idea of others and play around with it. They rework it until it becomes different enough to be considered their own design. You too will need to come up with your unique twist.
Most importantly, create a craft item you enjoy making! Be sure you can make hundreds of them without getting bored.
Choosing a craft is equally important. And you have many options, including wood, beads, fabric, metal, or paper.
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Pet owners love their pets! If you love them too, you could make personalized pet dishes, leashes, collars, or clothes. Pet crafts are in high demand. In 2016, U.S. pet owners spent more than $60 billion on their pets!
Ask Around
Once youve chosen which craft item to make, create several samples. Choose your best four or five items and perfect them. Maybe they are different color combinations, designs, or styles.
Poll your friends and family in what big companies call a focus group. Gather them together or ask them individually which one of your designs they like best. Would they buy it or think it would sell? What would they change to make it better?
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Talk to others in businesses similar to yours. See what they charge and where they sell. Maybe theyll share their tips and secrets to business success with you.
Friendly Feedback
It may be hard to hear constructive criticism, especially when it comes from family and friends. But their suggestions might improve your craft item. Make sure you really listen to their comments. Dont be afraid to ask questions about what theyre saying. Its important to keep an open mind without getting your feelings hurt. If it helps, you can always write down their comments and go over them in a day or two when youre ready.
Chapter 2
Production Line
The Birth of a Workshop
You will need to find a spot to create. Working in your bedroom or on the kitchen table might seem like a good option. But it really depends on what you plan to do. If your craft involves painting or sanding, your work area could get messy. It would be better to work in the garage or in another area where messes would be easier to clean up.
The ideal workshop is an undisturbed, well-lit work area. Add a folding table or an unused desk to your workspace. This will give you a place to dry or assemble many parts.
You will also need storage for your supplies and tools. You could use plastic bins or shoeboxes. Keep it organized. Your materials should be separated from your finished products.
Make sure your workshop is functional. But more than that, make sure its a place you enjoy. Youll be spending a lot of time on your craft, and working in a drab space isnt good motivation. Decorate it with your favorite pictures or quotes anything to jump-start your creativity and imagination.
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Make sure your workroom has good ventilation. Open a window if you work with paints or materials that have strong fumes.
Start Small and Stick with It
When you first start out, start small. Only buy enough supplies to make a few of each item. Then see what sells. That way you wont end up with a lot of leftover materials youll never use.