Start A Craft Stall At The Markets

I would suggest that when beginning to sell your craft work that you do not spend a lot of money on set up costs, keep it to an absolute minimum until you are earning money from your craft.

Costing of products: It is entirely up to the individual seller how they price their items. 

If, after checking what other traders are asking for comparable items, you don't know where to place your prices, why not start off on the modest side? That way you won't price yourself out of the market and if you can't keep up with demand that may be a hint that you can afford to be a bit more pricey in future.

When costing out your products the general rule of thumb is the cost of the materials plus 60%, however, this may make some products unaffordable for your customers, so common sense is advisable, perhaps add a little more to your lower cost items, which would allow you to reduce your higher cost items? We would advise that you do not include your time in the costs as this can be impractical and can make your goods too expensive to market. 

Stock levels: Do not make too much. It is better to sell out or to take orders than to store a huge amount of stock.. You can make more in between events. As you get more experienced and attend more events you will have a better idea of what sells more quickly and what you should have in terms of stock.

Flyers and advertising: Always have some flyers to give out to your customers and prospective customers. These can be easily formatted on your computer and printed off at home, they should show your name, business name, contact details and any events you have booked for. These sometimes can be kept by people for a long time before they make a purchase, it is not unknown to get a phone call and order a year after an event.

Your best advert is word of mouth, so be friendly and helpful. Regular trading at one location gives your customers the feeling of security that you will be available should they have any problems or want to buy from you again. It can take a year or more to build up a customer base. 

Treat your stall as your shop window, a way to advertise your product. It is hard not be sensitive about products you make yourself, but just because you may not sell well at an event does not mean that there is anything wrong with your product, it may just mean that the customers are going away to think about it and then come back and purchase from you next time or ring you up to order from you and this may be months later.

Welcome your customers, be friendly even if you are having a bad day! It may turn out to be great day by the end of trading!