Second Pattern Today
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This is a doll-sized Rocking Horse pattern. It is just over 11" long.. The pattern calls for all 3/4" thick wood. If you want the horse to have extra strength, drill holes in the legs and use 1/2" dowel rods for extra strength at the glue joints.
The horse Head Statue is almost 10" tall. The pattern calls for 1/4" and 3/4" thick wood.
Craft show season is in full swing in some areas. November and December are the most profitable months for selling crafts. If you are thinking about moving your craft show experience up to a more professional level, then these tips may help. These tips are geared toward a more experienced show, but to some degree, they can help with all shows.
Gear Up for Success: Top Ten Tips to Prepare for a Craft Show with Your Woodworking Projects
Preparing for a craft show to sell your woodworking creations can be both exciting and daunting. From perfecting your products to creating an inviting booth, a well-thought-out approach can significantly impact your sales and overall experience. Here are the top ten tips to ensure you're ready to showcase your craftsmanship and make your next craft show a resounding success.
1. Curate a Diverse and Well-Priced Product Selection
Offer a variety of items at different price points to appeal to a wider range of customers.[1] Include everything from smaller, impulse-buy items like coasters and small toys to mid-range products like cutting boards and picture frames, and a few high-end, statement pieces. Researching your market is crucial for pricing. A common formula to consider is: Materials + Labor + Overhead + Profit = Price. Don't undervalue your work; factor in your time, skill, and the cost of your tools.
2. Create an Engaging and Professional Booth Display
Your booth is your storefront for the day, so make it inviting. Utilize vertical space with shelving and tiered displays to draw the eye upward and maximize your area. A cohesive theme and color palette can make your booth look more professional.[5] Ensure your setup is sturdy and, for outdoor shows, prepared for the weather with a canopy and weights. A well-organized and attractive display will entice customers to step in and take a closer look.
3. Clear and Consistent Pricing and Signage
Every item in your booth should be clearly priced. Customers are often hesitant to ask for prices and may simply walk away if the information isn't readily available. Use professional-looking tags or small signs that match your brand's aesthetic. Consider offering bundles or sets, as these can provide more value to the customer and increase your total sale.
4. Think About Branding and Packaging
Consistent branding across your booth, signage, and packaging helps customers remember you. Have professional-looking business cards readily available. Offering bags, even simple paper ones with your logo stamped on them, provides a convenient way for customers to carry their purchases and continues to promote your brand as they walk around the event.
5. Be Prepared to Accept Multiple Forms of Payment
In today's increasingly cashless society, being able to accept credit and debit cards is essential.[10] Services like Square or PayPal offer easy-to-use card readers that connect to your smartphone or tablet. Of course, you should also have a cash box with enough change for cash transactions.
6. Engage with Customers Authentically
Be present and engaging in your booth. Avoid sitting in the back, buried in your phone. A friendly greeting and a willingness to chat about your work can make a big difference. Share the story behind your pieces—the type of wood, the finishing process, or what inspired the design. This personal connection can turn a browser into a buyer.
7. Plan Your Inventory and Stock Levels
Having enough inventory is crucial, but knowing how much to bring can be tricky. A good starting point is to have enough to fill your display attractively and some back stock of your most popular items stored neatly under your table. Keep a list of your inventory to track what sells well, which will help you prepare for future shows.[14]
8. Create a Comprehensive Craft Show Checklist
Well before the day of the show, create a detailed checklist of everything you'll need. This should include not only your products and display elements but also practical items like a comfortable chair, snacks and water, a phone charger, and a toolkit with essentials like zip ties, scissors, and tape for any unexpected repairs.
9. Research and Choose the Right Craft Show
Not all craft shows are created equal. Research potential shows to ensure they attract your target audience.[16] Consider attending a show as a visitor first to get a feel for the crowd and the types of vendors present. Juried shows, which require a review of your work for acceptance, often have a higher quality of craftsmanship and attract more serious buyers.
10. Follow Up and Continue to Market After the Show
The end of the craft show isn't the end of your sales opportunity. Encourage interested customers to follow you on social media or join your email list. This allows you to notify them of future shows or new products available online. A business card with your website or social media information is a simple yet effective way to foster a connection that can lead to future sales.
Doll Rocking Horse Pattern
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