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.