Tips for Craft Festivals

Craft festivals represent one of the best opportunities for crafters to get their work seen and sold to the public. There are many crafters out there who have found an extremely lucrative operation as they have been able to get the format right. Unfortunately, being able to attend all the best ones and finding where to sell and make money from a festival is something of an acquired skill. So, here are a few pointers that might help you: and before you embark, you will need to make sure that your stall and your work are insured in case there are any accidents. This usually involves getting insurance, so it’s a good idea to ask yourself, “How much does craft insurance cost?” Having the peace of mind of knowing that you can trade legally and successfully will make the whole process seem a lot easier.

The first thing to do is to pick and choose the craft events and festivals that you are going to attend. Planning and organising are always important elements of any business, but giving yourself the time and space to be well prepared for an event such as a craft fair is crucial as it may need meticulous planning. Before anything else, you’re going to have to consider exactly what you’re going to sell. Make sure that you have a good seasonal range available to anybody coming to look at your stall. You should, however, always have one eye on the future as well. Don’t be afraid to feature Christmas products, even if you’re at a festival in August or September. It might be that this is the last opportunity that you’ll have to attend a fair before the festive season starts. In that case, how are people going to be able to buy your festive creations before the big day arrives? Many sites that only open during the summer season will happily launch Christmas cards in late August to try and catch that audience before the site closes. If you are the type of producer that uses the winter months to create stock, then you may not have an opportunity to push your Christmas lines during this period. It is certainly what many summer opening operations, like those run by the National Trust, for example, do, knowing full well that the shop will not be available over December and January. The same could also be true when dealing with Easter options. If you don’t think that you’re going to be active during the holiday, then seek out earlier festivals and shows to sell your Easter items. Whatever time of the year you decide to start your festival schedule, make sure that you check out getting adequate cover in case there are issues along the way. The answer to the question, “How much does craft insurance cost? needn’t be an enormous amount.

The next stage of looking at craft festivals is to make sure that you do your research first. It might even be an idea to spend a good few months studying the locations where the craft festivals are going to be. It also might be an idea to not exhibit at some of the ones you are thinking of attending so that you can get an idea of the layout. Customer flow in retail is an extremely important factor when planning a shop, and you should also take this into account with your positioning at the Craft Festival. Being one of the first stalls to be seen does carry something of a burden, as the organisers of the festival will be expecting you to make a statement with your stall. It could be that you are one of the defining features that set the tone for the visitors. That means you’re going to have to pay some attention to how the site actually looks and is presented.

Make sure that your name and company name are prominently displayed and ensure that you have printed cards out so that people can take away details if they need to contact you later for a more bespoke item that you can craft. Even in this age of digital contact, it’s surprising how a business card can make all the difference. Secondly, don’t be tempted to swamp your stall with all of the items that you make. The key to a good display is balance. Make sure that you have some prominent signature pieces on display to attract the eye, but also give thought to having some smaller and more affordable takeaway items that someone can buy on the day. Much of this depends on your actual output, but don’t be afraid to have something that people can handle if that’s the world that you work in in terms of crafting. Tactile touch and inspection of the product that the person is looking to buy are very important. The ability to be able to handle the product and engage with it first and foremost can increase sales. If something gets broken, you can always make a claim on your insurance, so it’s a good idea to ask yourself, “How much does craft insurance cost?”

Finally, don’t be afraid to engage with the people who are looking at your stall. While it might be fun to produce the craft, ultimately you do have to have a desire to sell it. This is where you have to engage your customer service side and also your salesperson side. Another old saying in retail is that people buy from people, and that certainly is true with what you’re looking to sell to the public. Don’t be afraid to talk about your engagement with your work. In fact, it can be quite an exhilarating experience to be able to discuss what you do with interested parties. Some of the magical things that you create through your crafting can only be conferred by you when you actually talk about them, and craft festivals give you the opportunity to do just that.

Free in 23…

We’ve all heard catchphrases for this time of year many times: “Your biggest year yet…” or “New year, new you…” which can either excite and inspire us or intimidate and freeze us into inaction!

We decided to put together 23 exciting, inspirational, (hopefully  not at all intimidating) ideas around how and where to sell handmade crafts in the UK and beyond and help set your creativity free in 2023…

1. Build an online community using Facebook.

It becomes your very own tribe in which to thrive. Rather than searching the internet for ‘where to sell handmade crafts UK’, think about what unifies your audience and then serve their needs via the group.

2. Leading from the heart is how you start.

Do that thing that excites you as a ‘side hustle’. That way you can test what works and what doesn’t. Creativity works best when you’re not under pressure.

3. Give value to your community.

If you are concerned about giving away knowledge for free, there’s no need to worry. Just keep learning, experimenting and discovering! There’ll always be someone following in your wake, needing a helping hand. Help to create empathy by reviewing your life experience and create a link between that and business.

4. Tell your story.

Your story is unique, even though your product might not be. So many people try and reinvent the wheel when in order to be original all they need to do is tell their story to capture their audience’s interest.

5. Think ‘show’ rather than ‘sell’.

Turn to the people who have bought from you. Get them to share their experiences with reviews and videos for your group. Videos help tell the truth and truth gets traction.

6. Collections keep attention.

Taking products and grouping them as limited editions make them worth more. From fine art to figurines, investors know the power of the ‘collective’ approach. Take an original piece of art and then create a set of limited prints. If Banksy can do it, you can too! We all have to start somewhere.

7. Product placement starts where you live.

The greatest studio you have is your home, so why not start sharing your work in its place? Whether it’s a family photo or a product shoot, start at home, because ultimately, a home is where the products that people buy will be housed.

8. Go LIVE for 5.

Give people 5 tips about your product. These could cover keeping it clean, boxing it, or even the best way to frame it. Use video to give simple tips for the top.

9. Themes and seasons are so important to us all.

The fashion industry have colours and seasons, so we in the crafting business can think the same way. The best brands and marketers in the world bring accepted strategies from one industry to another. Craft is no different.

10. Give something away.

Who do you know who would benefit from what you do? Maybe it’s a charity or a local school. Givers gain attention by impacting the community around them.

11. Location, location, location.

Go to a great location and take a shot of your product. I immediately think of Castle Coombe in the Cotswolds which is famous for its fantastic setting. Use images that combine a great location with your product then use the hashtag and location in posts. It will get you noticed.

12. Double up.

Find a brand or another crafter you love and share the love. Offer an incentive to your audience to buy from you both, such as a discount or another free item! Help each other by giving each other exposure. Rather than compete with each other, complete each other!

13. Email your buyers and thank them for buying.

If you offer to email them a receipt when they purchase from you it’s an open door to further conversation and a chance to say thank you for their business. Just be nice. Remember, it’s the last thing you said that you will be remembered for.

14. Network online.

Hundreds of networks have sprung up over the last few years. Invest in a network and it will increase your net worth. Talking to strangers isn’t scary.

15. Words create worlds.

So get used to talking about why you started, loads. From social posts to blogs and even a few podcasts! Comfortable never wins. Start talking about why you do it, as much as how and what you do.

16. Get fans rather than followers.

Fans buy from you. Simple. The size of your following is not the size of your business. They need to buy into you. They might not spend all the time BUT they can tell someone else about you! Reward those people!

17. Mix the medium.

Lately, there seem to be more and more artists who have realised that their work can translate onto high street fashion. Could your cushions become a jacket? Or you picture, wallpaper? You have the product, but what else could work?

18. Get chat on your website.

You can even link WhatsApp. Be available and when you’re not, add an email address. Chat can change you opportunities x10.

19. Join your audience.

If you’re googling ‘where to sell handmade crafts UK’ then why not join your audience? Find out where they hang out and be there. If they’re at an art launch, go. If they’re on Instagram, comment. Learn how to hang out with the crowd you know you can serve.

20. Replace fear with facts.

Whatever you fear, there are 10 reasons not to worry and things you can do to mitigate the risk of failure. Fear isn’t failure, failure is letting fear win.

21. Ask more.

Just ask. Ask for the sale. Ask for the promo. Ask for advice. Ask for help. Learn to ask and you’ll get answers. If you don’t ask, you only have questions.

22. Dont compare yourself.

The worst thing you can do is compare yourself to someone else because everyone has their own unique story. Focus on your story. Compliment others but don’t compare yourself to them. An overnight success takes 10 years at least, so keeps investing in you.

23. Invest wisely.

Your time, talent and treasure are your biggest resources. Spend them on the things that give you peace and turn a side hustle into a business with real muscle for the long term.

Hopefully you are now primed and ready, with a few more ideas  about where to sell your handmade crafts as well as inspired to do great business in the year ahead.

As we continue to support the craft industry with the very best craft insurance, we invite you to join the craft group and ensure that you’re part of building great craft businesses, now and for the future!

Christmas Quiz

Welcome to this special Craft Insurance Christmas edition of our Crafters blog, in which we’ve put together our best Craft Insurance Christmas quiz for you, with a crafty twist! This is a busy time for all of us, and especially when you own a craft business, as you work flat out to meet your online orders, prepare and attend craft markets, obviously with the best craft insurance in place, and somewhere in between try to pull together your own Christmas preparations. We hope that in the midst of it all, maybe as the whirl settles down between Christmas and New Year, you might find time to make yourself a hot cup of tea, grab a treat to eat and settle down with the puzzle. Or, maybe you could use it as family entertainment, around the dinner table or for a cosy evening of games in front of the fire while the Christmas tree lights twinkle their festive cheeriness.

There are eighteen crafty questions; some you will know or can guess, some you will probably have to look up. Don’t worry if you have to check Google for the answers, at least you’ll come away with a few new fun facts which might come in useful at your next pub quiz!

Make a note of the first letter of each answer, as these will make up the winning phrase. You will need to unscramble them to make up three words. A clue; these could be a motto for our company. Happy puzzling and a very merry and peaceful Christmas to you! We wish you all the best from Craft Insurance.

QUIZ

1) What is the name of the German city which hosted one of the earliest Christmas markets?

2) What is the name of the city in the South West England which hosts a yearly Christmas market against the background of its gorgeous Georgian architecture?

3) The origin of the Christmas market is thought to be the “Dezembermarkt”, a winter market held in Vienna to allow the townsfolk to stock up on foods for the long winter ahead. The right to hold this market was granted to shopkeepers by a certain Emperor. What was his name? (You’ll have to Google this one!)

4)Franz Skarbina was a German artist. Look up his painting titled “Christmas Market in Berlin” (1892). How many trees are on the left of the scene? If you like this painting, take a look at “Berlin boy from the Christmas market” and “Christmas Market”.

5) In Finland, traditional lanterns are crafted from which natural material each Christmas?

6) What is the delicious sweet egg bread with candied fruit which originates from Saxony? It dates back to the fifteenth century and was given as a Christmas present.

7) What are the yellow buns called which are eaten in Sweden at Christmas time?

8) What is the traditional pudding eaten at Christmas time in Denmark?

9) Not quite a Christmas question, but related! What is the sauce which accompanies the turkey at Thanksgiving? We also eat it at Christmas time!

10) Our own Christmas pudding dates back to medieval times when it was more of a savoury pottage. Over the years more sweet fruits were added and by the Victorian era it looked much like the pudding we know and love today. Recipes use a variety of dried fruit, but they all have either sultanas, currants or _ _ _ _ _ _ _ .

11) What is the season which directly precedes Christmas? In the Anglican Church it starts on the fourth Sunday before Christmas? We open calendars to count down the days during this time.

12) Another one on the church theme. What is the name of the twelfth day after Christmas? In Mexico this is called Three Kings Day, and is also known as Twelfth Night.

13) What was the name of the underpaid clerk in Dickens’s “Christmas Carol”? (Looking for his surname).

14) Tchaikovsky wrote three famous ballets. One of them is often performed at Christmas time as it begins with a scene in which Uncle Drosselmeya presents Clara with a gift of the same name as the ballet.

15) Another literary one… What is the first word of the first line of the famous poem by Clarke Moore, written in 1822 telling of the exploits of Santa and his reindeer on Christmas Eve?

16) Onto some movies. What’s the name of the 2003 movie starring Will Ferrell, about one of Santa’s helpers who heads to New York to look for his father?

17) Movies one, two and three have this one word as their title. It’s also the original reason Christmas is celebrated, and includes Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus.

18) You might have a Christmas kiss _ _ _ _ _ the mistletoe.

Answers

  1. Frankfurt
  2. Bath
  3. Albrecht
  4. Two
  5. Ice
  6. Stollen
  7. Saffron
  8. Rice pudding
  9. Cranberry
  10. Raisins
  11. Advent
  12. Epiphany
  13. Cratchit
  14. Nutcracker
  15. T’was
  16. Elf
  17. Nativity
  18. Under

Hidden phrase: best craft insurance

Recognising the winds of change in the world of handmade goods

When running a handmade goods business, it makes sense to have a close watch on the seasons. Structuring goods, in regard to their release and production that is centred around the four seasons including the events they bring, is something that owners can capitalise on. With these changing seasons come new challenges as well. In all circumstances you should always consider insurance for selling at craft fairs, to be covered for any of the eventualities that can occur.

You will probably have already planned out the year in terms of what products you are going to launch. For example, your main Christmas range ideas should ideally be completed by September time and then Spring lines, incorporating Valentines and Easter, can then be completed over the late Autumn/Winter months. Amongst all of this there is the need to attend the various craft fairs to sell your handmade items.

As we head into winter, here are some of the challenges you might face with the changing season that we can help you to avoid…

The weather

Living in the UK means getting used to weather that is notoriously unpredictable. As we live on an island our climate is regulated by the sea, with the Atlantic Ocean and North Sea determining rainfall and the Gulf Stream warming us in the summer months. Even though our temperate climate means moderate rainfall, spread over the year, and generally mild conditions, we are always susceptible to sudden and extreme changes. Many people remember particularly harsh winters and scorching summers with news and weather reporters using the word ‘unprecedented’ an unprecedented number of times! This lack of predictability means that you need to have some form of protection in place. If a show is cancelled at the last minute or you are unable to get to a planned event you may face a charge for a “no show”. You might also need to consider where equipment that you take with you to events such as gazebos, could become dangerous in high winds. Therefore, insurance for selling at craft fairs should be something that you can look into to cover yourself.

Floods

While it is unlikely that you’ll have to miss a show due to snow it is more likely that floods will cause an issue. Despite the recent drought we have experienced, we are told that milder, wetter winters are going to be a more common occurrence. It is a good idea to consider how you will replace lost stock and equipment in the event of a flooding. This also applies to how you store your stock and the materials that you use. Think about whether the structure is sound and regularly check for signs of damp or weaknesses in the roof and walls.

Accidents on the road

Ice is still an issue on our roads. Gritting salt has a shelf life and with the milder winters we are experiencing, its no wonder that local councils are loath to spend too much on buying huge amounts. This means that we can get caught out when the temperature really drops. Ice can be fatal to cars and their ability to grip roads’ surfaces. The same is true when it comes to vans. Therefore, you should make sure that you have insurance cover in place which means that if what you’re taking to sell has been damaged the finance can be provided to cover it. Also, be sure to plan extra time to get to your venues during the colder months and keep a blanket in the back of the car just in case!

Equipment seizing up

Depending on where you work, your equipment is vital to your success. You need to have decent materials and equipment to create the sellable masterpieces that your business produces. However, if you suddenly find that one seizes up in the colder months, what can you do to get back on track? It might be that you should look to getting some insurance for selling at craft fairs to cover yourself in case of sudden breakdown. It will work as a good contingency plan to provide you with the means to rebuild and repair the equipment and tide you over during the period of inactivity. Regularly checking your equipment for wear and tear is also a good idea so you can identify any issues quickly and resolve them. If your equipment or the items you produce require the use of water, make sure that the pipes are insulated to prevent them from freezing.

Becoming more sustainable

The changing seasons do bring challenges and worries but with them come opportunities as well. One such opportunity could be to look at how we can make our businesses become greener and more sustainable. For many businesses this has meant looking at the items that they use in their businesses and finding ways in which they can be more sustainable. Creative arts and crafts has always been ahead of the curve with this and there are many ways that homemade crafts are created from sustainable products or even from old disused items. With more and more people becoming eco-conscious they are looking for alternatives to their everyday items. This is where you can have an impact and, in doing so, even increase your sales. Think about whether there are any items that you make that could be made from more sustainable options. You should also consider your own packaging and whether this can be recycled easily. In some cases there aren’t any obvious changes that can be made and in these instances it’s nice to look at ways you can offset the carbon that is used. There are many organisations that will allow you to plant a tree for every sale you make or every profit milestone that you reach. This information can then be used in your marketing and help to show people that you care and that spending their money on your products is making the right kind of impact.

Consideration for the environment and protecting the future of our planet for future generations is a bit like preparing for seasonal change to protect our businesses and everything we work hard for. Both make a whole lot of sense.

‘Tis the season for making wreaths!

The concept of a wreath is generally credited right back to the Greco Roman era, where wreaths were made out of leaves, twigs, flowers and even small fruit. They adorned the heads of those who wore them and their make up signified rank, status, occupation etc. Probably the best known is the laurel wreath which was worn by victorious contestants of the Olympic Games.

Many centuries later the wreath was recast in northern parts of Europe and became integrated into Christian folk lore. The story goes that when evergreen trees were first hauled from the outdoors into homes to deck them up at Christmas time, they would have been trimmed to ensure a good shape; maybe triangular as this represented the Trinity. The left over sprigs were then woven together and made into something similar to the wreaths we know today. Other symbolism was added to this tradition as time passed; evergreens were said to represent strength of life, as they could survive the harsh conditions of a long winter and the circle was said to illustrate eternity.

Onwards a few centuries again, and Advent wreaths were developed. Decorated with five candles, one for each of the four Sundays leading up to Christmas and one for Christmas Day itself, these evergreen wreaths sat within churches and were lit one candle per week during Advent. Now they are found in many Christian homes too, as a good way of introducing the themes of hope, joy, peace and love as each candle is lit during the Advent season.

Maypole wreaths are another twist on the theme. While closely linked in with Greek traditions, they are also enjoyed here in the UK on May Day, where they bedeck the maypoles and the heads of the May Day celebrants. In this instance they are made from spring flowers or herbs and add a colourful accent after a long grey winter.

In our times, the humble wreath has been given a multitude of makeovers and can be a wonderfully creative invention using buttons, yarn, pottery, felt, and many other mediums. The one essential tool for wreath making is a hot glue gun!

So how could you adapt the wreath around your own particular craft business? Here are a few suggestions.

One of the joys of living in a temperate climate is the changing seasons. As human beings we generally thrive best on stability and reliably, but also need a certain amount change to pep up our lives. The gentle rhythms of the seasons provides just this; we know that winter will gradually give way to the warmer, greener days of spring, and this will in turn lead to the longer days of summer until the solstice when the days shorten and we head towards the mellow abundance of autumn before entering the darker winter days again. This cycle provides just the right amount of change within a predictable pattern. So, why not create a wreath which picks up on this and reflects all four seasons in turn? This would be ideal to sell at craft fairs and could be sold at any time of year. Just remember to get your craft market insurance in place before you head out.

Firstly you will need a base. A quick scroll through Pinterest will reveal there are a number of materials you can use for this. Your choice will depend slightly on the medium you will be using to decorate it. For example, if you are crocheting flowers, why not try a willow one?

Secondly, how can your unique craft skill be adapted to adorn a wreath, and how can your basic idea be modified to reflect the four different seasons? You may choose to make four unique seasonal wreaths yourself and sell them as spring, summer, autumn and winter wreaths individually or with a discount for all four. Or, you could put together a package: four sets of decorations and one wreath base for the customer to festoon as the seasons change. Either can be sold at any time of year at craft fairs and are sure to be show stoppers as they will be both unique and eye catching. You will almost always need craft market insurance in place, so remember to give us a call alongside booking your market stall.

Each set of decorations will need to capture all the good things of that season with a splash of nostalgia intertwined. You will give your customers a sense of excitement and hope each time they decorate or hang up a new wreath. Whatever has happened in the previous season, a new one is beginning with all the beauty of the natural world and the fun of the celebrations we observe within it.

Spring will probably involve bright colours, yellows, blues and fresh greens to reflect the new leaves and spring bulbs. Summer could involve a warmer version of these colours, or could have a specific summery theme; beach huts, camping, boats etc. Autumn, as a season of abundance and harvest, oozes rich oranges, yellows, golds and reds with autumn leaves, an array of hedgerow foraging finds, pumpkins, harvest or a lavish mix of them all. Winter, as a more barren season offers less to visually process, so would be better represented by a plainer, predominantly white themed wreath. Or, it could be a colourful and celebratory Christmas themed wreath with loads going on!

If you’re working in yarn, your decorations could be a profusion of actual flowers, knitted or crocheted. Flowers or birds could also be crafted out of felt or ceramics, as could beach huts, shells, autumn leaves etc.   Or, you could use the colours associated with each season and create an ‘off piste’ freestyle work of art.

Finally, candles are a beautiful centre piece for any table, so if you own a candle making business, could you craft four different types of candle to adorn a seasonal table wreath? Maybe you could team up with a potter and design a seasonal wreath into which your candles could be placed.

I hope this blog has left you inspired! The months before Christmas are a perfect time for creative wreath making; so ensure your craft market insurance is in place, book some craft fairs and amaze your customers with your beautiful, seasonal wreaths.

Which hand made products sell best?

Wouldn’t it be great to know for sure the answer to the question “Which hand made products sell best?” To know exactly the market trends of the next six to twelve months and be able to produce the perfect products which will sell like hot cakes? Unfortunately, none of us can do this. And while we can certainly look back retrospectively at the hand made craft products that sold best in the previous year, and even look at what is currently trending, this should be a guide only, not a straight jacket with which to steer us in a pre-determined direction.

So, what has been trending over the last months/years? Health and beauty products and jewellery often come out at the front, alongside consumables, personalised clothing and art work.  However, market trends and consumer preferences fluctuate, so it cannot be guaranteed that these will always be at the top. A browse through Etsy or Pinterest and a quick Google search will reveal the top selling products at any one time. Maybe a more pertinent question to ask though,  is how this knowledge could impact your decision making. Do you jump onto the crest of the current trend, hoping your products will sell amongst all the others? Or do you step out and start up a completely different line, knowing it’s not amongst the top sellers? Will you try to find a niche within the trending markets?

Most crafters would agree that the business grows out of our passions, natural abilities and vision. It would simply not make sense therefore for someone who loves to work with wood and makes exquisite household utensils or children’s toys using this skill, to throw it all in and start making bath bombs instead, just because they rank highly in the selling tables.

On the other hand, what if you are already creating products in the top selling range? How can you make yours stand out from the rest? If you are selling at craft fairs, can you include demonstrations as part of your sales pitch? Could you allow for customers to be involved in a small part of the production process? For example could they choose the beads on a simple pair of earrings and watch you put them together? On social media, reels or videos are trending over pictures, so can you translate this enjoyment of watching action into your craft fair stall?  Your enthusiasm, expertise and love of your craft will shine through and act as a honeypot for the bees! Remember you will need insurance for crafters when attending fairs, so pick up the phone and we’re here to help find the best fit for your needs.

As with all small businesses, do the market research and find your niche within it. For example, hand made toys may not hit the trending list, but there is a market for them, and within that people will pay a premium for a product which is not only well made and has longevity, but also brings with it a comforting sense of nostalgia.

Whatever your chosen direction, ensure you get good competitive insurance quotes, which will not only give you the necessary foundations for your business, but will be cost effective. We are here to advise on the best insurance for crafters, and thus help you get your business onto a good footing.

Back to trending products. While it would not necessarily be a good idea to change your direction simply to be in line with current top selling craft products, you may be able to adapt your individual line in that direction. For example, if you know that jewellery sells well and you are a potter, could you make stands on which to hang necklaces or ear rings? Or burners for wax melts? Or could you expand your skills and make bath bombs to sell in gorgeously decorated bath shaped pottery receptacles?

Likewise, being aware of seasonal selling trends is also important to maximise on sales. Christmas, Easter, Mother’s Day and Father’s Day all need careful consideration, and although many of us might wish they were not so commercialised, it can work to your advantage. Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of our throw away culture, and may well be looking for gifts which are more sustainable, support small businesses and will last more than a few weeks (unless of course we’re talking about mouth watering handmade chocolate fudge!)

On the subject of sustainability … it’s on everyone’s lips at present and top trending products often capitalise on this. We are also a nation for whom the desire for authenticity is on the rise.  Consumers will value an item which has genuinely been made locally and with sustainable products. Even with the current squeeze on finances, customers will still pay a premium for such products. So, can you look at where your raw materials are sourced, how workers are treated, and what chemicals are used in the manufacturing process. Can you reduce the gap in some way between the producer and you the consumer? For example, if you make wax candles can you source your wax from local beekeepers? Or use locally grown herbs for beauty products? Ultimately, it’s more about what hand made products of yours sell best than about top selling products nationally. You can chase after the current trends, but if these do not reflect your abilities and passion then they will not work for you. So, be confident in your own skill set and vision for the direction of your business. Ensure you have good insurance for crafters in place, and then set about making the best products you possibly can with enthusiasm and enjoyment.

Setting up your crafting space ideas 2

How many crafters have scrolled through Pinterest or YouTube, looking longingly at the perfectly curated and colour coordinated craft work spaces? Both are great platforms to get ideas and inspiration, but for many of us, setting up a craft business from scratch, we simply do not have the available funds to create such beautifully coordinated spaces, with everything bought new and for purpose. At Craft Insurance we are always keen to help you save money…check out our competitive rates for craft fair insurance for stall holders for example… and so to this end we have come up with some more tips which might help you set up the perfect space in which you and your business can flourish, without breaking the bank.

Before you start the hard work of number crunching, seeking out bargains and repurposing pre-loved furniture for your own use, begin by dreaming a little. In an ideal world, what would you like your crafting space to look like? What colours do you like to be surrounded by? Calming or invigorating? What type of visual layout do you like? The more clutter/ornaments we have in a room, the more we need to visually process. This is why very clear homes often feel calming. However, having beautiful and useful things on display can create a sense of cosiness and warmth and be equally relaxing.

Strike the right note

How about your auditory senses? If you are working alone, do you love listening to music or podcasts, or do you prefer silence? There is no right or wrong answer to any of these questions; we are all unique and our preferences for the type of environment we work in will all be different.

Next, you could do some research. This is where some internet searches can be helpful; we can gather ideas and get some great tips, but be mindful not to allow discontent or self doubt to cloud your judgement. You will be able to create a great space for your purposes, and as your business grows, you may well choose to plough some of the profits back into your work space and thus have the satisfaction of seeing the results of your hard work surrounding you.

Get in the zone!

Whatever space you have, whether it is a huge warehouse or a tiny back bedroom, it can be very helpful to divide it into zones for separate tasks. For example, you will probably need a place for your computer and other IT gadgets, including any  photography equipment for photographing your products. You will also need space for processing and packaging orders. Then, of course you will need your crafting space. For many kitchen table craft business, these zones may actually be in different parts of your home. For example, if you are a potter, your wheel will be outside, you may paint and package at the kitchen table and share the computer with the rest of the family in another room. If you have a knitting business, you will probably carry your needles and wool around with you, but again will need specific spaces for storage and processing orders.

More storage tips

One thing all crafters have in common is that you need plentiful supplies, be that paint, wool, clay, fabric or ingredients to make soap or candles. Therefore, you will need storage and plenty of it!  If you have a specific room, shed or workshop look at where the lighting is best, as this will be where you will probably want to work. You can then fit storage into a darker nook. There are so many options for storage, from purpose built units to repurposed shelves or dressers from a charity shop. It can be helpful to store products, tools and accessories you will need for craft fairs in their own boxes, so they are easy to transfer whenever you have a fair to attend. This will save you much time the night before as you will not need to scrabble around to find those labels which you know are somewhere….!

Making the most of your space

Think about what type of flooring will serve you best. If you will be on your feet most of the day, would rubber mats be more comfortable? If you are sitting at a chair, it’s worth finding one which is ergonomically good. Think about your posture and put in place what you can to prevent aches and pains. Likewise, if you are working with toxic materials, ensure you have enough ventilation.

If you have a small space, maybe even a cupboard to store your equipment, make sure you use vertical space well. This could be a pegboard, hanging rods on the wall or the back of the door. However small your space, make it your own. Ensure you put some things in place which will make you smile, whether it be a colour scheme, some inspirational quotes, photos on a clip board or a repurposed dresser which you have invested time in making just right for your use.

At the fair

It’s worth thinking about how you would set up your space at a craft fair. You will want your stall to stand out, so think about clear branding and ease of approach for your customers. You may be able to demonstrate your particular skills at the site, or even to enable your customers to individualise their purchases. You will need craft fair insurance for stall holders, so be sure to get this in place well before the event.

In the public eye

Finally, some of you will have studios or workshops which are open to the public, so your space is visible to your customers and will impact sales. Branding and ease of access might be particularly important here, alongside checking you have the best possible deal on craft fair insurers for stall holders. So, whatever your budget, have fun constructing the perfect crafting space, designed just for you, where you can be inspired and create to your heart’s content

Setting up your crafting space ideas 1

Turning your crafting hobby into a business gives rise to several questions that need to be answered. It can be an exciting time for you as you look to make a such a big change to your working life. However, as with most challenges, being prepared is the best way to approach it. If you can get these key elements correct then you may be well be set up for a successful business and you’ll feel fulfilled by it too.

Location

It can’t be stated enough that the location where you base your craft business is a key element to how well it’s going to perform. Most craft businesses are run single-handedly and if you don’t have a happy and relaxed workspace how are you going to be able to produce the best work that you can sell to prospective and existing customers? Therefore, you need to plan out your space carefully. There are so many factors to consider when it comes to location.

Making space work for you

Firstly, you need to manage the practicality of the space in relation to you own wellbeing. Consider how you want to work. Will you be sat down for long periods of time? If this is the case then you need to look at a comfortable chair for you to support your back and legs. Make sure that you have the time and space to move around at regular intervals to keep muscles moving. In contrast, if you are standing for long periods then you will need a comfy chair to rest in for a bit.

Is everything where you need it?

If you have specialist equipment for your crafting, then this has to be allocated space. You will need to be able to navigate around the room easily. With that in mind, it’s also essential to make sure that you have you crafting equipment near to hand. The last thing that you will want is to waste valuable time moving from one side of the crafting room to another searching for materials. Ensure that your most used items are grouped together and are easily accessible. Also, if you have a pre-existing back condition you may want to consider asking an occupational therapist to come in and check your working environment for you. 

Light bulb moment

One factor that many people find is that having natural light coming into their work space is of paramount importance. If natural light is an issue you can buy bulbs that replicate sunlight, which may be a good option.

Many creatives do their best work with a view of nature or of something similarly inspiring. For example, a cityscape can be just as rewarding to look at as a landscape in some cases. If this is not an option, place art that you like or fresh flowers around the room. A word should also be said about secure storage of certain items. Some things that people work with need extra care and protection.  For example, craft insurance for candles is available to help support you in the creation and sale of these types of products.

Equipment

What you use to create your crafting masterpiece is also dependent on the tools and equipment you use. It may be tempting to try and cut costs at the start of the business by looking at buying cheaper or budget-based options. This may seem like a prudent financial approach, but it can work out to be a false economy in the long run. If you buy a cheap piece of equipment, you may well find that it breaks or needs replacing soon after you have bought it.

The best approach is to look at a decent piece of equipment that you know you will get many years of service out of. It will depreciate, but at a much slower rate than a budget option. The key element here is to shop around, look at testimonials from other users or speak to them directly. It’s ok to get a rep in to show you the benefits of the equipment and how it’s going to fit into your operation. Also remember that early equipment costs can be reclaimed through your tax filing.

Storage and stock control

There are 2 elements to address here. They relate to the location that we looked at earlier. Firstly, a computer based stock system for your materials and products may be needed. There are plenty on the market and it could be a simple spreadsheet. Secondly, how you store the products may have to be considered from a safety perspective. As we mentioned before when it comes candles, a popular crafting choice, there are several storage options to be aware of. Covering yourself for accidental loss through craft insurance for candles is a very good idea. General insurance for all of your crafting business should be a top priority. You will need to consider the physical storage options such as boxes and shelves.

Your wellbeing

Lastly, you need to consider yourself in all of this. This is your business and along with craft insurance for candles, cards or whatever items you choose to produce and sell, you should make sure that you look after your own health and wellbeing. This may mean taking time out during the day to relax and enjoy a nice walk or it may mean having items in your crafting space that inspire you and that bring you some joy. You should also think about ensuring that you have easy access to refreshments and water in particular. If you work on your own for long periods of time you may also want to consider the security that you have in your space. It might be appropriate for you to have an alarm or a camera installed that will allow you to see who is coming and going.

We talk to Chloe Haywood: milliner

Chloë Haywood (Designer and founder) has always had an interest in fashion, and this was confirmed when she won Young Clothes Show Designer of the Year when she was 16. Leságe himself offered her an opportunity to study at his school in Paris at the time.

Hatastic! founded in March 2009 as a hobby, and then went on to release three collections using reclaimed materials: Recreation, L’air du temps and Candy.

Chloës premiere A/W collection Cold Cocktail showed at Milan Fashion Week February 2012, and in the same year Sheerluxe SS13 showed at London Fashion Week Sept 2012 which successfully sold out at Fenwick, Bond Street in 10 days.

Board SS14 was the first collaborative project with another sustainable company called Thrashion. This was the first collection which showcased mens aswell as designs for women, and sustainable materials such as Fairtrade straw, upcycled skateboard (Thrashion), reclaimed acetate, plus a fabric made from 100% plastic bottles from Newlife™. Fenwick, Bond Street exclusively sold this collection in bespoke colourways.

Nominated as Accessory Designer of the Year 2011, Chloë was also prized with a Hatty Award in 2012 and then won BTAA Fashion Accessory of the Year ‘Made in Britain’ 2015 for the collection In The Shade. Then in 2016 Liquid SS16 was nominated in two categories at the BTAA awards and was awarded ‘Highly Commended’ Made in Britain Fashion Accessory of the Year 2016.

Apart from regular public appearances, Chloë was invited to No. 10 Downing Street to discuss how the Government can best assist the growing Designer Maker market.

Check out the full interview!

How to make Christmas Bunting

Amanda Brown of Cotton onto Sewing in Dorset shows us how to make festive Christmas Bunting in our latest video. This is a great sewing machine project and can be adapted for anytime of the year not just Christmas!!!