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5 Things I Learned from Selling Handmade Items at a Stall

So I did my first market! Hoorah! Made one sale and really happy about that. You must be wondering what the hell I'm happy about? Continue reading and you might understand why.
handmade craft market

1. Know who you might be selling to
I heard about this 'market' a little late from a fellow team member of the Finland Handcrafters Team.
Although I had a rough guess that there will be lots of flea market, second hand stuff on sale, I went ahead as this was a good experience at an affordable price.

2. Come prepared with the knowledge of #1
But if I gave a little more thought to point #1  and was able to gather together other things I might want to have 'cleared off' I might have had a better game plan and be able to sell more than I did. I might have even sold some old supplies or prototype items that I normally just give out to anyone.

3. Bring water and some food
Since the market started at around 10 am and went on over lunch time, I'm glad I brought some cookies with me. It help to keep my day cost down, considering I did not sell much. But buying food while you are at the markets is a cost!

4. Have friends or make some
I am really thankful for the other crafter friends I attended this market with. We chatted sometimes and it felt like there were others with me 'on stage' and I was not alone. There was a lady at the opposite table who was promoting a special coffee, who then poured us a cup each! Make friends like these!

5. I tried, I won!
Yes the sales might have been just one, but I gained a lot in experience and better knowledge of how to be prepare in the future. Also I understand better what to expect or if to expect anything at all. If I didn't have done it I would still be wondering what it would have been like!

9 comments:

  1. Great post.good luck for the future sales.Have a great day :)

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  2. Great that you made one sale - boosts one's confidence! I've now done several since I began selling on Etsy in 2010 (say about two or three a year, nearer Christmas - when folks are most likely to be looking for "that original gift"). I love them - although the packing up, setting up and then pulling down and coming home does take a little glitter off the whole event! - precisely because of the people you meet. Crafting can be quite lonely: it's good to meet new people and one picks up all sorts of tips.

    Good luck for your future gigs!

    Isobel: www.ColdhamCuddliescalling.blogspot.com

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    1. Thank you! Yes crafting can be lonely, it's great to have friends

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  3. I always consider a show a success if I learn something and have a great time :) Love your positive attitude :)

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  4. This sounds like my first fair experience, I only sold one dress, but I thought it was awesome!

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  5. Great post, Yini!!

    xoxo,
    Raisa

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