New opportunities for selling craft online.

Posted 12/10/2023 in Tips for Crafters

When it comes to finding places to promote your handmade crafts, there are lots of different options to choose from. Not only can you look at selling crafts online directly from your website, but you can also use some of the many social media channels to make sales. Some of the most popular social media platforms for selling products are Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest. They all have very similar styles, and it is possible to use them very effectively when it comes to getting your products in front of new people. 

However, there is a new social media platform that is worth looking at when you start out selling craft online – Threads.

Threads is a social media platform that empowers crafters and artisans to showcase and sell their handmade products in a visually engaging and community-driven way. It leverages the power of social media to create a unique and compelling space for crafters to connect with their target audience and turn their creative passions into profitable businesses.

At its core, Threads is designed to provide crafters with a user-friendly interface where they can easily upload photos and descriptions of their handmade products. These products can range from handmade jewellery and clothing to home decor, artwork, and more. Threads encourage crafters to also engage with their audience by commenting on other people’s threads. 

One of the critical features of Threads is its emphasis on storytelling. Crafters can share the inspiration behind their creations, the materials they use, and the craftsmanship that goes into each piece. This storytelling aspect adds a personal touch to the shopping experience, making customers feel more connected to the products and the artisans behind them. Crafters can also post updates and behind-the-scenes content to engage their followers and build a loyal customer base. This can be done by updating an existing Thread or starting a new conversation.

The platform also encourages interaction and community-building. Crafters can connect with other artisans, share tips and advice, and collaborate on projects. Customers can follow their favourite crafters, comment on posts, and ask questions about products, creating a sense of community and fostering trust.

At present, you need to have an Instagram account in order to have an account with Threads. The set-up is effortless, as it takes all of your existing Instagram information and sets up your profile. You can also follow all of the same people as you do on Instagram. This, therefore, speeds up the process of finding others to follow and also lets your existing followers find you easily. Your Thread profile will also be displayed on your Instagram page. 

Another option is that of X. This is the rebrand of Twitter, and it is a fast-paced social media platform that allows for the selling of products as well as building connections with your customers and your potential audience.

Crafters can effectively use X as a valuable platform to promote and sell their handmade products by implementing various strategies to reach a broader audience and engage potential customers. It is important that as well as posting on X, you engage with other people’s posts. This helps to boost your profile and enables you to build a community on the platform. 

 Crafters can make the most of X by working through the following steps:
1. Create a Professional Profile: Crafters should start by setting up a professional X profile. This includes using a clear profile picture, an engaging header image, and a concise bio that highlights their crafting expertise and products.

2. High-Quality Visual Content: Crafters should share visually appealing images and videos of their products. High-resolution photos that showcase details and craftsmanship can attract attention and entice potential buyers.

3. Engaging Descriptions: Crafters should pair their visuals with engaging and informative product descriptions. Explain the materials used, the creative process, and any unique features of each item.

4. Use Hashtags: Utilise relevant and trending hashtags in tweets to increase the discoverability of your products. Research popular hashtags within your crafting niche and incorporate them into your posts.

5. Consistent Posting: Crafters should maintain a consistent posting schedule to keep their audience engaged. Regular updates about new products, work in progress, or behind-the-scenes glimpses into their craft can help keep followers interested.

6. Engage with Followers: Interacting with followers is essential. Respond to comments, questions, and messages promptly. Building a personal connection with your audience helps to build up trust, and this can then lead to repeat business.

7. Promoted Tweets: Consider using X’s advertising options to promote key products or special promotions. Promoted tweets can help you reach a broader audience, and you can target specific demographics that align with your customer base. This can be perfect when you are looking at selling crafts online.

8. Run Contests and Giveaways: Organise contests or giveaways to boost the engagement on your posts and to increase your follower count. Encourage users to participate by sharing your tweets or tagging friends, which can help expand your reach.

9. Collaborate with Influencers: Working together with influencers can help you increase your followers by utilising the following that they have. Influencers can endorse your products through reviews or sponsored posts, driving traffic to your profile.

10. Pin Important Tweets: Use the pin feature to keep a specific tweet at the top of your profile. Pinning a tweet that features your most popular or newest product can ensure it’s the first thing visitors see when they land on your profile.

11. Share Customer Testimonials: Retweet and share positive feedback from happy customers. Authentic testimonials serve as social proof of your product quality and customer satisfaction.

12. Leverage Twitter Lists: Create X lists to organise and follow potential customers, influencers, and competitors in your niche. This allows you to stay updated on industry trends and engage with your target audience more effectively.

13. Track Analytics: Utilise X Analytics to monitor the performance of your tweets. Analysing data such as engagement rates, impressions, and click-through rates can help you refine your marketing strategies.

By employing these strategies, crafters can leverage X as a powerful tool to not only showcase their handmade products but also connect with a broader audience and drive sales. Building a strong X presence requires consistency, engagement, and a strategic approach to marketing and promotion. And, when you have become an ace at selling your craft online, why not call for some expert help with your Craft Insurance? We’d be delighted to help you.