How Many Items Do I Need To Head for Craft Fair

United States
April 10, 2008 8:07pm CST
So, I am thinking of making stuff to sell at craft fairs to help pay off my student loans. How many items should I make before I head off to the Fair? Just a general idea would help. I will probably make my Alien Yarn Buddies (see discussion and picture), yo-yo coasters, quilted table runners and baby quilts. Thanks.
1 person likes this
4 responses
@ryzach (1544)
• United States
11 Apr 08
I would take as much as you can. Your entire inventory if possible. If it does not fit on your display table you can always store underneath and still have it available for you customers if needed and you will have extra items to fill the spots where you have sold something so your display always looks full. I think the more choices you have the better you will sell. I do handcrafted as well and wish you the best of luck.
• United States
11 Apr 08
I guess I have not made myself clear. I need to know at what point I have enough inventory to go to a craft fair. Right now, my inventory consists of about 3 items. Obviously, I need more than that. So, how many before I spend the money on a table?
• Canada
11 Apr 08
I used to do craft fairs years ago. Without really knowing much information about the fair, where it is, how big is the town and how big the event is, I would suggest to figure out how much money you want to make at the event and take 1 1/2 times that amount of product in dollars. In other words, if you want to make $500 take $750 worth of merchandise or products. I hope this helps.
• United States
11 Apr 08
That is an excellent guideline. Thank you.
@cher913 (25781)
• Canada
14 Apr 08
i would have a good variety of stuff and alot of each item. you could get several hundred people looking and buying your stuff! its best to be prepared. Also, you might want to take business cards with you just in case you run out of anything.
• United States
11 Apr 08
I bring as much as I can, but it does help that I have an online craft/jewelry shop to sell my items after the show. I usually have quite a bit of overstock and often some of it is never seen by the public that day. I do add the over stock to my table as items begin to sell. It helps make the table look full. Make enough to have your table look full, and give your potential customers a range of items to look at. If they only see a handful of items, they'll either think that you've already sold your best items or you aren't prepared for the show. A professional appearance could mean the difference between a great show and just an okay show for you. If you have time, making business cards to hand out, could help you make sales after the show is over and if you are planning to do more shows, a flyer with a list of your next appearances, could also boost your fture sales. Good Luck to you !