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The Sew What’s New Archive
This archived content is from Mary Wilkins’ sewing and
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From: momto7
Date: 09-10-2004, 10:29 PM (1 of 28)
(color=indigo)xxx)/color  I am starting to work craft shows and I would like to know how many of you are doing shows? I will be doing a lot of them between now and the end of November |
User: momto7
Member since: 09-02-2004 Total posts: 16 |
From: Bama
Date: 09-11-2004, 10:13 PM (2 of 28)
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What kind of crafts do you do? I love to go to craft shows. I've always wanted to try making things for one, but I've never had enough time. 
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User: Bama
Member since: 03-21-2000 Total posts: 2116 
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From: Loie
Date: 10-16-2004, 10:43 AM (3 of 28)
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(color=indigo)xxx)/color I am starting to work craft shows and I would like to know how many of you are doing shows? I will be doing a lot of them between now and the end of November I am responding to your question about doing craft shows. I have been doing a few craft shows each year for several years. Some shows are better then others, hard to say why. It is fun to get out there though and meet other crafters and see what is going on. My question to you would be, what seems to be the "hot" items this year??? I do decorative painting and some crafting of little dolls and bears. I am not always sure what to paint as to what people are buying.......haven't seen a definite theme this year, have you???? |
User: Loie
Member since: 10-15-2004 Total posts: 2 |
From: momto7
Date: 01-22-2005, 02:50 AM (4 of 28)
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Hi there I have not been on line for a while I have moved to a differeent town. I did pretty good doing craft shows during the months of Oct,Nov& Dec. I am now getting ready to start all over and get ready for more shows. I saw a lot of nifty ideas and my daughter liked going to the shows with me. She came up with an idea of taking a picture frame and putting soup lables on it and then spraying laqure on them. She made these for her sister for christmas. Since her sisters married name is Campbell she used the campbell soup lables.  I think that this year will be a good one. I plan to do a lot of things theres a flea mart here too I want to check out
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User: momto7
Member since: 09-02-2004 Total posts: 16 |
From: crazy4quilting
Date: 02-16-2005, 10:45 AM (5 of 28)
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Hi There! Yes, I do Craft Shows as well. Whenever I can schedule them, etc. One month I was literally working 7 days a week for the whole month. Craft Shows can be very lucrative. I find that I do best at Street Fairs, High School Fairs, Festivals, etc. On an average (for the bigger sales), I could pull in $500.00 or more a weekend. Granted those are kind of far and few between, but typically you can expect to make an extra $200.00 a weekend. That means more fabric money! $$$$ (smile) I've invested in folding tables, and props to help display items and draw people over to my booth. The best way to check out for events in your area is the web. Just do a "Google" search for Fairs and Festivals in your area. Most booth rental spaces are on average of $75.00 - $125.00. The High School Fairs you should expect to pay a little less. Hope this helps! A Girl Can Never Have Too Much Fabric!
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User: crazy4quilting
Member since: 03-14-2002 Total posts: 51 
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From: akire
Date: 03-18-2005, 07:47 AM (6 of 28)
| Hey Momto7 just wondered if you had an update on starting craft shows? Did you get to any, how were they... A friend of mine has been doing craft shows for a couple years now, but its with her antiques. We have decided to work together to make crafts too. In a week she takes our stuff to a craft show, so that will be my first...i'm very excited. We are making beach glass jewellery. Very basic stuff, but real cute and nice 'souvenier' kind of things. If she sells anything at all I'll be totally blown away. I've never sold anything before. I quilt, but have given them all away. Our next endeavor, if this show goes okay, is to prepare for next Christmas...wooden ornaments. |
User: akire
Member since: 03-06-2001 Total posts: 61 |
From: b*bees*boutique
Date: 08-16-2005, 01:05 AM (7 of 28)
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Hi - I'm new to the group. Loie, I live in the Central Coast too. Where do you do craft shows? Carol |
User: b*bees*boutique
Member since: 08-16-2005 Total posts: 8 
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From: SummersEchos
Date: 08-16-2005, 01:32 AM (8 of 28)
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Hi b*bees*boutique, Welcome to Sew Whats New. I myself do not do craft shows but I am sure you will find some very interesting things here. Summer
FREE FALLIN |
User: SummersEchos
Member since: 09-29-2004 Total posts: 884 |
From: tiedyejudy
Date: 08-16-2005, 09:47 AM (9 of 28)
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Hi! Just saw this thread and thought I would add my input. I have been doing craft shows for 7 1/2 years. From 1998 to 2002, I was a member of a Crafters association in Covina, Calif. They have a craft fair every Saturday there, and I would set up at least 2 Saturdays a month. It was a good place to start and learn how to set up my booth and how to market my crafts. Since we moved to Flagstaff, Arizona, I have slowed down a little. There are some craft shows here during the summer, but they are very expensive and you have to apply to be accepted. I found several small fund-raiser shows at the local schools and churches, and have participated in them the past couple of years. I actually did very well in most of them. This month, they opened an indoor swap meet in town, which is not just crafters, but we have a large body of crafters who are setting up, and I did very well on Saturday, considering the place just opened up. A friend of mine has put together a co-op of about 16 crafters who share a space during the month. Each weekend about 3 or 4 of them set up their merchandise, using the same displays so they don't have to completely break down the booth, just pack up their merchandise at the end of the weekend. Although we have long days(I got there to set up at 7am, and didn't get out of there until 6:30pm!), I enjoy selling my work at these events and encourage anyone who wants to try their hand to give it a whirl. Judy Judy Sall Originals
www.angelfire.com/retro/tiedyejudy |
User: tiedyejudy
Member since: 08-10-2005 Total posts: 78 
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From: b*bees*boutique
Date: 08-17-2005, 02:36 AM (10 of 28)
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Hi Judy - thanks for the info. I love your tye-dyed items. I bet you have fun creating them. Carol |
User: b*bees*boutique
Member since: 08-16-2005 Total posts: 8
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From: tiedyejudy
Date: 08-17-2005, 09:30 AM (11 of 28)
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Hi Judy - thanks for the info. I love your tye-dyed items. I bet you have fun creating them. Carol Hi, Carol. Thanks for your kind words. Yes, I do have a lot of fun with my tie-dye. Just wish I could find some different clothing blanks to use. I have made some dresses, but really don't have enough time to do as many as I would like. But I definitely get my 'color' needs satisfied! I just checked out your e-bay site and have to say I haven't seen any cuter kids clothing than what I just saw! Your designs are just adorable! Judy Judy Sall Originals
www.angelfire.com/retro/tiedyejudy |
User: tiedyejudy
Member since: 08-10-2005 Total posts: 78
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From: b*bees*boutique
Date: 08-18-2005, 01:18 AM (12 of 28)
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Oh, thanks Judy - I appreciate you taking a look. I love being creative. Have you tried tye-dying a shirt like these... http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0009GHFHQ/dealtime-clothing-20/103-9337264-2239037?dev-t=D2GPY4FLPNIDH9%26camp=2025%26link_code=xm2 I was wondering if the solid sleeve would give the shirt and interesting look, or just look strange? Carol |
User: b*bees*boutique
Member since: 08-16-2005 Total posts: 8
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From: tiedyejudy
Date: 08-18-2005, 08:54 AM (13 of 28)
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Oh, thanks Judy - I appreciate you taking a look. I love being creative. Have you tried tye-dying a shirt like these... http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0009GHFHQ/dealtime-clothing-20/103-9337264-2239037?dev-t=D2GPY4FLPNIDH9%26camp=2025%26link_code=xm2 I was wondering if the solid sleeve would give the shirt and interesting look, or just look strange? Carol I prefer starting with a white shirt - it would be difficult to get a good match on the colored sleeves. My dyes are very vibrant and intense, and those shirts have very pastel sleeves... would probably look like I dyed a shirt with colored sleeves, IYKWIM... Judy Judy Sall Originals
www.angelfire.com/retro/tiedyejudy |
User: tiedyejudy
Member since: 08-10-2005 Total posts: 78
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From: akire
Date: 08-31-2005, 07:17 AM (14 of 28)
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I'm finally getting ready to do my first craft shows in November, I'm nervous but excited. I've gone through a rollercoaster ride in terms of what I wanted to do at craft shows. At first a friend and I wanted to think of something new for each show, see if there is a 'trend' and cash in on it, I've always been creative and interested in trying things. But now I've swung the completely other direction and am going to stick with what I know and can do. So, its quilting (which scares me to death because I've only ever given away quilts I've made, never sold one) and making beach glass jewellery. My mom has been collecting beach glass for over 30yrs and I've fallen absolutely in love with making wire jewellery with it. At first I wanted to sell, sell, sell and just use up the glass (of which I have tons) but now, it all seems so valuable that my price keeps changing and I want to be able to sustain this jewellery making over a number of years...It's nerve wracking. Anyway...I have signed up for three in November...so I'll keep ya posted on my experience. Any advice for a first timer? Anyone? |
User: akire
Member since: 03-06-2001 Total posts: 61 |
From: MaryW
Date: 08-31-2005, 10:37 AM (15 of 28)
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Be well rested and well prepared. Long days can be gruelling. Have loads and loads of product. Make sure you have everything plainly priced and a change box for $$$.
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542 
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From: tiedyejudy
Date: 09-03-2005, 09:55 AM (16 of 28)
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and making beach glass jewellery. My mom has been collecting beach glass for over 30yrs and I've fallen absolutely in love with making wire jewellery with it. At first I wanted to sell, sell, sell and just use up the glass (of which I have tons) but now, it all seems so valuable that my price keeps changing and I want to be able to sustain this jewellery making over a number of years...It's nerve wracking. Anyway...I have signed up for three in November...so I'll keep ya posted on my experience. Any advice for a first timer? Anyone? First off, I have never seen beach glass jewelry! Can you send pix? Second, plan how you will set up your booth, and make sure you can do it in the amount of time allowed for setup. I have my booth down to about 30-40 minutes for setup or breakdown. I have a friend whose setup is so elaborate that it takes 3-4 hours to setup or breakdown, with help! Bring something to occupy your time between sales - crosswords, book, hand-work, etc. Enjoy! It's not worth it if you don't like to people-watch, schmooze with your neighbors, etc. Price your work fairly... don't forget, your time is worth something too! Best of luck, and let us know how it goes! Judy Judy Sall Originals
www.angelfire.com/retro/tiedyejudy |
User: tiedyejudy
Member since: 08-10-2005 Total posts: 78
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From: akire
Date: 09-03-2005, 12:04 PM (17 of 28)
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Would love to show you a picture or two...but not sure there is anywhere on this site to do that...is there? Can I attach a photo to a post? Someone tell me if that's an option...or I can just send you a small pic by email if you'd like. I don't have a website or anything...yet! And I have a friend who has been doing craft shows with antiques for years now, so she will know about table setup. But I will remember to bring something to do in between sales...since I work with wire I thought I'd bring some and be working while I'm there...thought it might look sort of professional..lol...that's my theory anyway. |
User: akire
Member since: 03-06-2001 Total posts: 61 |
From: akire
Date: 09-03-2005, 12:48 PM (18 of 28)
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Hey..I'm going to set up my 'space' at MSN messenger tonight...the address is www.spaces.msn.com/members/amaritimegirl I started it, but put a photo on my profile which you might not be able to see well...I'll figure out tonight how to start a photo album and then post here. If you do look, the photo is of a bracelet, one pendant (without chain) and a pair of earrings. It's all sterling wire. Talk to ya later ... Gail/akire/amaritimegirl |
User: akire
Member since: 03-06-2001 Total posts: 61 |
From: akire
Date: 09-03-2005, 01:09 PM (19 of 28)
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I think I got it set up...if anyone has a look, let me know if it works! Gail R. |
User: akire
Member since: 03-06-2001 Total posts: 61 |
From: LeapFrog Libby
Date: 09-03-2005, 03:40 PM (20 of 28)
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akire, Yes, it works just fine.. I love your work.. I wish I had started years ago collecting beach glass instead of sharks teeth, and fossilized bone fragments only , along with pretty shells when I could find them.. Somehow the glass never was a craze down here til lately.. 
Sew With Love
Libby |
User: LeapFrog Libby
Member since: 05-01-2002 Total posts: 2022 
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From: akire
Date: 09-03-2005, 06:03 PM (21 of 28)
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Ya...its crazy, my mom never even collected it for any reason other than to give her a reason to walk the beach. And years later...now she's thrilled someone is actually using it for something. Wierd how some things work out like that. The only problem is that there is soooo much beach glass that is man-made that is sold as beach glass, and most of the time the consumer doesn't know the difference unless they've picked enough of it themselves that they can spot it. Anyway..I'm glad to be making it, if I end up selling some, that'll be a bonus...otherwise everyone I know is getting it for Christmas! |
User: akire
Member since: 03-06-2001 Total posts: 61 |
From: tiedyejudy
Date: 10-09-2005, 12:35 PM (22 of 28)
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Hi, Gail. I just got a chance to look at your pix, and I love your jewelry! It should sell really well! Judy Judy Sall Originals
www.angelfire.com/retro/tiedyejudy |
User: tiedyejudy
Member since: 08-10-2005 Total posts: 78
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From: akire
Date: 10-10-2005, 08:57 AM (23 of 28)
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Thanks Judy, I'm getting lots of good feedback from family and friends, but I guess you never know what might sell in a craft show. Honestly, I think I'll either love it (and plan to hit lots of them) or hate it and be spurred on to go into business for myself (something I'm planning for 2006 but very apprehensive about). All I know is...I almost never wear jewelry, a bit of a tomboy...and I am now wearing dangly earrings and either a pendant or charm bracelet every day. So that's something! |
User: akire
Member since: 03-06-2001 Total posts: 61 |
From: MaryW
Date: 10-10-2005, 05:52 PM (24 of 28)
Very nice earrings. For heaven sakes girl, go for it will ya. 
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: akire
Date: 11-08-2005, 10:53 AM (25 of 28)
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Hi...well...craft show number one under my belt. I enjoyed interacting with the public, had lots of traffic to my table, lots of 'chats' with people about my stuff, lots of very positive feedback...but only a few sales. So...I am now on to starting a business instead. How's that for 'what to do when your craft show doesn't go as well as you'd hoped'! People seemed to be surprised that I wasn't already in business, and so I guess that's a compliment? I'm taking it as one anyway. And Mary...I know you've seen me talk about other crafts I'd like to make and sell over the last couple years...and so you'll be happy (well, happy might be a strong word, glad perhaps) to hear that I'm taking the plunge, and will be trying to make a living at a handful of crafts. My husband and I bought a building last year, to move his office to and to rent. And we've decided to give me a space in it to start a studio. I'll still try to sell in other stores, but I'll also open my studio to the public here and there, when I'm brave enough, and hopefully, eventually, have a store. The building is on our main street in Charlottetown, so if when I do get going, I know I have the best spot in town to try my hand at this. Thanks for all the great comments...will keep ya posted! Oh...and another craft show this weekend...a much larger one, so I'll likely do a bit better. |
User: akire
Member since: 03-06-2001 Total posts: 61 |
From: MaryW
Date: 11-08-2005, 11:06 AM (26 of 28)
I wish you tons of luck. You are going to do just fine. Especially with your husband giving you moral support too.  The only thing you lack is some self confidence. Go girl!!!
MaryW
owner/editor of Sew Whats New |
User: MaryW
Member since: 06-23-2005 Total posts: 2542
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From: jenny-o
Date: 11-08-2005, 12:46 PM (27 of 28)
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akire, I just love your jewelry, especially the bracelets! I grew up in a small town on the west coast, the beach just a short walk away. Beach glass has such sentimental value to me - practically brings tears to my eyes. I wish you all the best for your craft shows. I have found that I was much happier with the show if I had attended it in prior years as a customer first. I missed the deadline for the show here that I really like because they changed the date - made it two months earlier than usual. I'm p.o.'d but c'est la vie, I'll be there next year with that much more stuff. If you find the right ones for your type of craft you can do fewer and make more $$. I like talking to all the other vendors too, they always have good ideas where and which shows would be good for your type of craft. Let us know how your next one goes. Jenny |
User: jenny-o
Member since: 08-28-2005 Total posts: 132 |
From: akire
Date: 11-14-2005, 12:12 PM (28 of 28)
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Hey all...the show this past weekend went fairly well...what I came away with: since my things didn't sell really well, but I got tons of positive feedback on the quality...that I"m going into business. Lol. Does that make sense to anyone else but me? What really cinched it was two people who own businesses asking me to do up some product info, like in a brochure, and quote them prices, and they might buy/sell my stuff. So...I'm excited. And I'm going to set up a studio in a building my husband and I own...and open it some Fridays and SAturdays in the summer, otherwise just sell directly (wholesale) to other stores/businesses. So...it was a positive experience for sure...a great place to start I think, craft shows, you get lots of feedback from the public and make some important connections sale wise. Thanks for all the comments! |
User: akire
Member since: 03-06-2001 Total posts: 61 |
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