Arts and crafts shows can be great events for artists everywhere to showcase their pieces, building a fan base, and making some great money. Preparing for the show is very important, especially if you’re an artist just starting out. 

An arts and crafts show is not just about bringing your inventory and selling. If you don’t know what you’re doing, you might end up with a booth full of inventory, no sales, and a loss for the investment you made. Consider these points when preparing for an arts and crafts show.

Indoor or Outdoor

Based on the weather forecast and the type of product you’re selling, determine which setting is better for you. Outdoor shows can be great if the weather is mild and no extraordinary weather events are expected. Especially in the spring and fall, outdoor events can be great. 

If you are selling perishable items or items that can melt or get messed up with heat, sunshine, or rain, avoid outdoor events or make sure your booth is protected from the elements. Also, consider that not as many people may show up at outdoor events if it rains or if it’s too hot outside.

Fill Out Your Application

In order to get into a show, you will need to fill out an application. Be sure to complete this step as early as possible so you can get the opportunity to choose your booth and not have to take whatever is left. 

If you’re one of the first to choose a booth, you can get probably get an area with an expectancy of high traffic and, with this, ensure that more eyeballs are on your products. There are a few steps into securing a booth at an arts and crafts show, so be sure to not wait until the last minute to apply.

Stock Up on Product

Find out how many people are expected to show up at the event to have an idea of how much product you should make. You want to bring as many items as possible, because you don’t want to run out and miss out on potential sales. Knowing an attendance estimate will help you determine what’s a safe number of items to bring.

Booth Essentials

It’s always a good idea to do a mock-up booth at your home or business before the show. This allows you can practice how you want your booth to look. Most booths will have a table, tablecloth, banner, signage, displays, and the items for sale. Preparing for your arts and crafts show ahead of time will save lots of headaches. Start planning as soon as you learn your booth has been approved, and you’re sure to have a better time focusing on selling your products and enjoying yourself.