Just wanted to hop on her and thank you! I lost my job during covid and I'm a single mom with 2 kids. I bought a sewing machine before losing my income and now the child tax credit ended. So I'm stressed out so badly I've been losing sleep. I saw the title to this video and a light bulb went off. 💡 A-Ha! I should get my new sewing machine out and start sewing small items to sell in my community. Ive lived her long enough that they will know me and support what I'm trying to do.... Survive! Thank you for helping me look outside the vox and stop feeling powerless. I can do this! 💪 thank you!
Your hair bows that didn't sell, resell them as gift basket bows! Put a tie on them instead of a clip so people can tie them around the top of a cellophane wrap for covering the gift basket!
For your make-up removal pads having one out, maybe zip tied to the basket or something, would help sell it even more because people love touching things before buying because touch creates emotion to the product. I love this whole list 😍
@itsmeJennaL I think making this in a large size would be helpful. Maybe a 5 inch square. I like many of your ideas and will check out some of your videos.
As a mom of 3 girls, I buy tons of large bows! But none of them are patterned! It's best if they're solid in color in order to better match to existing outfits and can continue to be used as they grow with changing wardrobe. The only patterns I buy are holiday themed ones. Also, make bows that can be used for formal events, velvet, tule, with rhinestones/pearls etc. Hope this helps.
For the make up remover pads, have a sample piece out that is connected to the table. So customers can feel them, without getting germs on ones people purchase
I sold at Farmer's Markets for over 10 years, I just retired I was a studio production potter and also had a gourmet jam business. I did VERY well at farmer's markets and always had so much fun. I know quite a few people who did well with their sewing businesses at market as well. When my hubby and I were in college about 30 years ago (man time flies!) we made money to live by selling my sewn dolls and his wood doll furniture at art/craft shows. The best thing about markets is that our kids (who we homeschooled) grew up selling with us and learned business skills they couldn't have anywhere else.
Oh one thing I do suggest - is buy plastic bed risers (you can get them online or at Walmart, etc) and put them under the feet of all your tables. This will bring them up to a height that makes your products look more professional, is easier on people's backs and will make them more likely to shop your booth - having to bend over makes people feel vulnerable and awkward. The psychology of sales is so fascinating!
You need to have an expensive top end product, like the bags, so that people realise your worth. Then they will be glad to buy your other products that are more affordable.
Yes the big one sells the little one. I used to work in a Nursery, show them the 15 foot Orido Nishike that sells for $2000, and then they will buy the little one for $200.
I made some scrunchies for my daughter because her hair is THICK and curly and wavy, and the store bought hair ties burst or pull her hair as they are so thin, but the scrunchies I make work BEAUTIFUL with her hair
I like the fact that you include pros and cons of different items that you have tried. Info about the pros and cons of prices was also really eye opening too. You have given really good specific details that some business classes don't really cover.
Your happiness & excitement about your booth with your friend really comes through in this video. It made me smile hearing you talk with such joy. Fantastic ideas for project, too! Thank you so much. 😍
I'm so glad you mention the "buying ability of customers"!!!! This is my biggest issue and when I say anything about it on most Facebook pages, I'm told to go to a larger community. 🙄 I try really hard to keep my prices low so that most everyone in every economic situation can afford something.
Some other ideas that came to mind when you mentioned back to school period Handmade : pencil cases, Purses Pass holders Lanyards Key ring charms Library bags Cot cover sets for preschoolers
The way you display your Scrunshies in the horizontal rack makes them look like rows of colorful donuts ... So smart and a lovely surprise when everyone else stacks them on vertical poles ... I'll take a dozen please!!!🍩😍
You are soo clever. Everything is set up beautifully. 👌🏼 I live in a small town too and we all look forward to what will be for sale at the farmers market on the weekend. It feels good to know you’re supporting a local family and taking home , often , a one of a kind handmade item. The surprise bags are really fun. My daughter does surprise bags in her business and she sells a lot of them as well. People love the surprise. Another thing she does it bundling. If you buy a tote bag you get a free bow. Kind of like that.
Ah, thank you! I still need to add more items to my inventory - during fall I would like to do infinity scarves and some other fun warm items. The real challenge is to find a) useful items people want/need b) items that can be made quickly c) items that don't take a lot of fabric as that is one of the biggest expenses. Yes! Bundling is on my list - I just have to sit down and count out the margins and what can I offer as a bundle :) Thank you for sharing your daughter's ideas - super smart!
Just get scraps from apoulstry stores for your bags. It's amazing how much material they will give you, and you'll never have to pay a penny to make those bags. That's what a professional told me. And I was even given leather!!
How coincidental…. I’ve been thinking about making scrunchies, for a while now, for myself and my daughters and granddaughters…. But also a side thought for selling. Your enthusiasm really inspires me.
When I was selling at craft sales, having a few items at the lower price range draws in people. One Christmas sale a teacher bought out our clothes pin ornaments for gifts for her students. You have several items here that does this. 🎁🎀🎁
All good points. I want to suggest always including a plain neutral color. I often pass up items because there is not a plain neutral color. Shoe straps, the fabric that goes around a pump to hold it on or change from work to casual look. Using less expensive material and reversible, double-sided it will be stronger * flat bottomed.
I'd suggest having a photo in front of the item showing you modeling it's use- like for the bandana, or makeup removal pad. It stays cozy if you are the model!
One idea I've seen and love is vegetable/produce bags made out of recycled saris. It's usually an upcycled poly chiffon, but it's actually strong and so beautiful and almost weightless. They sold them at my co-op for a while as a fundraiser and then sold out. I get compliments on them every single time I use them. They bring joy and are very eco conscious because produce bags are not really recycleable and are difficult to wash and reuse. I think they would be a big seller at a farmer's market. Also a good source for fabric to upcycle are regional goodwill outlets that sell clothing by the pound. If you need a lot of lightweight fabric scraps they would be practically free there...
Another tip, make sure the fair or event you plan to sell at actually exists. A lady in my city was conned out of 100$ table registration fee and had a large inventory or fudge on her hands when she realized there was no crafts market at the advertised venue.
For the canvas totes (and other canvas projects) I tend to buy all my canvas from the sale/clearance aisle, so I get them at cotton prices (or lower) and they’re still fun and amazing patterns. Then I can keep my sale price a bit lower for these items.
Ill buy drop cloths and make the prints myself, its not that hard and youll get exactly what you want. Im an artist, so I have all sorts of specialty tools for it, but you definitely dont need any! It all started when I sewed a bag for myself from an actual used drop cloth, it had been under my easel for years, splattered with paint.. and then my friends wanted some too. All because it was kinda pretty and I had hard time just throwing it out. Repetitive patterns are easy to make, stamps and stencils are great, and just paint and brush can do wonders. Only your imagination is the limit. If you have patience, you can carve wood or lino blocks, erasers, even apples or potatoes work. Just remember to carve mirror images if youre doing letters or numbers. Masking tape is your best buddy for clean lines, magic tape (the one you can write on with a pencil) if you need extra crisp lines or your paint/ink is really runny. You can dye the canvas first, just keep in mind what colors you want on top of it; if the base is very dark, test what paints will show on top of it. Tie dye will never go out, even when its supposed to be out, people love it too much. Check your home for different print makers, one of my greatest hits was a boot print. My mother-in-laws inherited crystal bowl made also really pretty chrysanthemum-like flowers, or the bottom of it. I bought super cheap foam alphabets when my goddaughter started school, between the letters I drew simple little kitties and doggies with textile markers, she used that backpack until it turned to dust.. I upholstered two chairs for a wedding gift, they turned out great. Ive saved all bigger off cuts, Ive used them to patch my jeans, made fabric roses and the rest wait for outdoor quilting project I had in mind. Simple pen or makeup baggies are asked the most, people have always need for them. Dont aim for absolute perfection, handmade should look like handmade; besides, perfection is boring. These are my best tips, I hope youll get something out of them. If you need help or troubleshooting buddy, Im here :)
Great Video! I did craft shows years ago. Your idea if small is smart! One thing you might want to do is consider custom work. I did more with that. People would like item and quality but wanted different size or color. I offered shipping and picked up more business because of people wanting to buy but not having room to carry on motorcycle. Grand parents usually with disposable income. Added bonus they wanted something for all grand kids. So I added boy themed items to my mix.
Custom work definitely takes better people skills and more patience. I did some custom knitting for a while but it was painful. Most of the customers loved the idea because they had no clue how to do it, but then had no understanding of the material costs, time, etc. Good for you finding a way to make custom work profitable.
This is awesome. I worked the vending life for 10 years. You meet great people. See awesome things. Travel. But it’s exhausting. Haha. I also did minimum 3 shows a week. I’m so glad to see you getting out there. Your bubble personality will do great!
I just was so impressed with ur presentation. I too use to sell every weekend and work too. Now retired and getting ready to move to a large graphic area. I do quilt, cross stitch, paint and whatever. So you have really gotten my creative juices going!!!! You wouldn't believe what I've already gotten rid of. Broke my heart but I had too.. You have given me the motivation I needed!!!!!!! How long have you been selling??????? From the bottom of my heart, God bless you❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
My little Griffon Bruxellious Louis wears a bow tie everyday one has blue on white stripes the other has blue stripes, people always comment about his knitted sweater (I made and designed) and his bow tie which is also his collar.
For the totes, you could buy the outdoor fabric at this time of year. Joanns in CA has theirs on at 70% off at the moment. You would have all winter to make them , then sell them out at lower prices in the spring.
This is really inspiring! I do a lot of crafts, and I'm quite good at some of them, but I never get around to sell anything. I've done some commissions for friends but I find it to be too stressfull. I give away a lot as gifts, which I truly enjoy doing, but it would be nice to earn some extra bucks. People always tell me I should sell my work but I always get tired just thinking about it. However, this way doesn't feel as daunting; I can make stuff at my own pace when I feel like it, and then sell at markets. I live in Sweden so there are probably a ton of regulations, but as markets are a thing, it should be doable. Thank you for yet another great video Alisa!
Wait I don't know who you are but I would've wrote exactly what you wrote 😭 I relate to what you wrote so much!! It's crazy! There's someone out there like me🥲💕
@@SD-qn5df Hi! I think you're really sweet for replying to my comment! It's a great feeling when another person just gets you. "I know what you mean" is probably one of the greatest sentences to hear 😄 💖 I hope you have a great day 🥰
Sounds like me, I knit, sew crochet, bake almost anything in the line of crafts but never feel confident enough to go out there and do it. I'm in Cape Town South Africa and since the pandemic our markets seem to have dwindled.
For the large bows, if your local area has a local sports team or university nearby, solid colors that match these team colors might sell better than patterned ones, as cheerleaders, moms etc. may use them to support their local team :)
Since you seem to enjoy watercolor, water color painted on tiles makes great coasters to sell. They are fun to do and beautiful. Just found you on Pinterest, off to watch more of your videos. Thank you. :)
For the makeup removal pads, could you put one on a string that is attached to the table that is just for customers to touch with a tag that says Makeup Removal Pad?
@@kristinatidwell6563 Of course, but she said they can't really tell what they are for, so I suggested having one out and secured with a string to something just so they could feel it and understand what they are for.
I would definitely put the bananas on a mold/model/wig holder. You could display one set of the makeup removers like they do fabric swatches. You could offer the makeup removers in a bigger size and I would definitely market them as sustainable! Your advice is great and your products are beautiful 💕
Here is an idea that I haven't seen in craft fairs (and I've been to many over the years). How about glam button covers? It would be a great use of sparkly, satiny fabrics to make up a "slip cover" to go over an existing button. For me I had a wooden button (about 1") on a nice black jacket and thought the jacket would also be great for evening wear. The only problem was the button. So instead of buying a new jacket, why not just have a fancy cover to put over the button. It would only need some narrow elastic in a casing around the outer edge of a fabric circle to draw it in to fit snugly over the button. Hope you may give this a try.... Thanks for all your great videos too.
This is a very helpful video. Even if you will not sell your products, you can put together a gift stack, so you always have a gift ready when you need one. Thank you for your generosity :)
I am watching your vid at 2:12 in the morning and you mentioned the tooth fairy it reminded me to call her up for my daughter who just had a tooth pulled during the day! Thanks for the reminder 🧚♂️🧚♀️🧚💸
I LOVE THAT FOX HEADBAND FABRIC. Wow! This is a great, very useful video, and I'm so grateful to you. I don't sell in public, but I do feel like if they sell well, they'll probably also make welcome gifts! Double score for us!
as long as there are still dancers with buns? You will find scrunchies. I had a loose scrunchie and my cat wore it around her neck like a collar. So stylish lol
Thank you for this inspiring and amazing video! I've just taken up sewing myself and I'm already thinking about scaling to sell.. it's so fun.. and quick to make something beautiful... textile art! As a business major, I especially appreciated the honesty about to think with the customer and varying price points in mind. I will certainly be watching more of your videos in the future. Thank you for being so genuine and candid!
For the makeup removal pads you could have them in a basket and then have one out attached to the basket on a little string so people can see what it feels like.
I so love your videos and also admire your attitude and approach to life. I especially like the framed wording on your wall at the beginning of this video: Stay Humble - Be Kind - Work Hard
I just got a small surprise from the. “Sunbrella” type outdoor fabric- Ive previously been able to spot clean similar materials, but my project needed machine washing, and i chanced drying it on low in the dryer. I never would have guessed, but the fabric pilled noticeably! Now I know. The next iteration of my project will be a sturdy “cotton canvas”.
I love your ending comment about the treat it like a business and not a hobby. They said that at my Mary Kay zoom meeting when I first started. I use it for my craft fairs also. I do only crochet and like you said we have good days and others where it’s not as popular but I keep going. Thanks for all your tips.
Good to see you expanding your horizons and finding new ways to share your sewing with the rest of the world! I'm definitely feeling inspired :) Re: the tote bags - you could probably lower the cost by using thrifted fabric (like curtains) and it could be a selling point too - sustainable, recycled, Earth-friendly etc. All the best!
Old sheets and curtain fabrics from thrift stores are my staples for bag sewing #Beyondawesomebags is my project to promote #mentalhealthawareness #disabilityawareness #environment #VIOLENCEISNEVEROK and other community causes
This is like reading my mind. Ive been wanting to do a farmer's market stall for the longest while, but now that fabric stores have reopened, I'm looking into making that happen.
YOU are precious! Thank you for giving your wisdom, understanding and experience so generously! You are also SO encouraging. as you know, being filled with thoughts and ideas is something to be contended with, good and bad,
You are so generous with your information but what impresses me the most is your honesty. I have so much respect for you to go into so much honest detail in order to help others who may be considering going down the selling path. ❤
At a farmers market, you say... Grow bags. Get heavy duty landscape fabric and some UV resistant thread for outdoor cushions, etc. Make bags in sizes from 2.5 gallon/10 liter, 4 gallon/15 liter, 8 gallon/30 liter volime. Make bags with circle bottom, and a long strip of fabric for the walls. No need to hem anything, as the fabric does not ravel. Grow bags are great for home gardens, and will last for 3 or 4 years with some gentle handling. They are a very affordable alternative to clay pots, and have some benefits to the plants' growth.
Great ideas! All of your items are very nice. Your big bows would probably also sell well if you made them in your local school and football team colors. A lot of the cheerleaders and family members want to dress with their team colors. Thanks for sharing.
This! Cheerleaders, softball, volleyball and sometimes basketball all commonly wear bows with their ponies and braids. If you wanted to try selling online bows for sports is an easy one to market.
Yes! I make scrunches for my sister in her school colours! She loves them and is always asking for more, I used to do the same when I was in school. Would be very popular!
Add strip across to hold to fingers whe using pad ...this way you can have separate pads and separate exfoliating ones...making nice set of 1exfol and 4 pads ...you can make set the lux with sleeping mask with gel access pouch or moisturising socks ...all can be done from scraps. Don't overpack them sell separately abd if client want set just pack in fancy box with window . Flexibility is a must .
I am watching this several months after you posted this, but I love your content and presentation of your instructions. By now, you may have decided to continue to make your large bows to be able to use for ponytails. I used to love large bows for my ponytails when I had long hair.
Wow .. this is the reason you have been busy .. Thank you sharing .. this seems so exciting.. on the big bows if you want to sell them . I suggest not to display them flat instead put it in a Dolls’ Head or a Plush toys’s head .. This will be a catch getter for your customers and specialty on the girly kiddos ...also for the cotton make pad remover.. a nice sign would help customer understand the ideas ... I am so excited for you .. It will be nice to share some footage of your day at the market 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🤝🤝🤝🥳🥳🥳🥳❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
For the eco friendly reusable makeup removal pads I suggest maybe adding a little print out inside the packaging that says what they are and maybe care instructions such as if they are machine washable and etc.
I like that you mentioned the not so great crafts. It shows that we ca create great things and ... ...well not so great things. I create greeting cards and most of the time they turn out good but some .... well... not so good. Fun sharing.
In 'my day' farmers markets were called craft shows .... and I always shared a table with my sister-in-law. I had a lot of fun doing them ..... now .... I enjoy going to the 'farmers market' !!!!!
Ah yes, we have craft shows too, but this one is a farmer's market, since we have local farmers and produce, honey, jams and etc. Craft shows in our area are so so expensive to apply for!
My first time here. Your enthusiasm is captivating. You have some really great ideas and I like how you let us know what hasn't worked. I am now retired and have gotten my trusty sewing machine out. I've been looking for some ideas for something to do. It's supposed to snow just west and north of us and my favorite thing to do during snowfalls or rainy days is sew. Keep up the good work.
I like that top on the ...whatchamacallit...behind you! I love sewing. I used to do all the bazaars and craft shows near my town. Tired me out! Thank you so much for sharing your works! Busy hands!
In my area of the U.S.A., Grab Bag fund raising (for a public library) has never gone well. Someone will always sneak the bags off somewhere else, rip them open, scatter out the objects that were inside the bags, and take what they want (without paying for anything). Using clear plastic bags does not stop it from happening either. I caught a woman in another room of the library trashing a clear plastic grab bag project. When I ask her what she was doing she informed me, "I only want these little blue books." All the little blue books were the same; and, there was one in each clear plastic grab bag. We never had a grab bag fund raiser project last for a full day before the bags were trash. We never made any money from the projects; and, the Grab Bags project always clost us money.
Ummm.... I am not sure what are you referring to, so sorry to hear that. But I never had any of these problems that you have described and I am standing right there to take care of the payment, no one walks off or trashes a grab bag...
You are such a joy to watch and learn from. Lovely personality and so smart. Not to mention very talented as well. Great video and I wish you much success.
Thank you so much for sharing your insight and ideas. Your enthusiasm is contagious 👍🏻 I especially love the idea of the larger elastic scrunchie. I have very long/thick hair and store bought hair ties snap after just a few uses - problem solved 👏🏻
The first 1,000 people to use this link will get a 1 month free trial of Skillshare: skl.sh/thoughtfulcreativitycraftsewdiy07211
I'm sorry but I couldn't understand what you said was on the other side of the makeup remover pads. Is it Terry cloth?
Great idea!!!☺
Do you do a template for the display cards?
Just wanted to hop on her and thank you! I lost my job during covid and I'm a single mom with 2 kids. I bought a sewing machine before losing my income and now the child tax credit ended. So I'm stressed out so badly I've been losing sleep. I saw the title to this video and a light bulb went off. 💡 A-Ha! I should get my new sewing machine out and start sewing small items to sell in my community. Ive lived her long enough that they will know me and support what I'm trying to do.... Survive! Thank you for helping me look outside the vox and stop feeling powerless. I can do this! 💪 thank you!
I was a dog groomer for 50 years and I made scrunchies for the pets since the bows were always popping off the ears. People loved them
How would you make those? I could use a couple my pup always has hair in her eyes and the bows don't stay.
@@UtahGmaw99 just make a size that doesn't squeeze her neck. lots of room better than not enough.
@@kathyburt3294 thank you. 😊
@@kathyburt3294 the scrunchie is like a collar?
@@goodtroublemaker143 that's what I was wondering.
Your hair bows that didn't sell, resell them as gift basket bows! Put a tie on them instead of a clip so people can tie them around the top of a cellophane wrap for covering the gift basket!
Thank you for ideas, you guys are the best!
@@ThoughtfulCreativity Or hair bows for dogs or bows for dog collars
There are also bows for wreaths for the different seasons !
For your make-up removal pads having one out, maybe zip tied to the basket or something, would help sell it even more because people love touching things before buying because touch creates emotion to the product. I love this whole list 😍
@itsmeJennaL I think making this in a large size would be helpful. Maybe a 5 inch square.
I like many of your ideas and will check out some of your videos.
As a mom of 3 girls, I buy tons of large bows! But none of them are patterned! It's best if they're solid in color in order to better match to existing outfits and can continue to be used as they grow with changing wardrobe. The only patterns I buy are holiday themed ones. Also, make bows that can be used for formal events, velvet, tule, with rhinestones/pearls etc. Hope this helps.
Good idea
"If you treat it like a business, you will see success!" - Spot on! Our own approach is key to everything, thanks for that reminder!
Absolutely!
For the make up remover pads, have a sample piece out that is connected to the table. So customers can feel them, without getting germs on ones people purchase
I sold at Farmer's Markets for over 10 years, I just retired I was a studio production potter and also had a gourmet jam business. I did VERY well at farmer's markets and always had so much fun. I know quite a few people who did well with their sewing businesses at market as well. When my hubby and I were in college about 30 years ago (man time flies!) we made money to live by selling my sewn dolls and his wood doll furniture at art/craft shows. The best thing about markets is that our kids (who we homeschooled) grew up selling with us and learned business skills they couldn't have anywhere else.
Oh one thing I do suggest - is buy plastic bed risers (you can get them online or at Walmart, etc) and put them under the feet of all your tables. This will bring them up to a height that makes your products look more professional, is easier on people's backs and will make them more likely to shop your booth - having to bend over makes people feel vulnerable and awkward. The psychology of sales is so fascinating!
You need to have an expensive top end product, like the bags, so that people realise your worth. Then they will be glad to buy your other products that are more affordable.
Yes! The Unicorn!
Yes the big one sells the little one. I used to work in a Nursery, show them the 15 foot Orido Nishike that sells for $2000, and then they will buy the little one for $200.
@@lindac6919 and think they are getting a great deal!
I made some scrunchies for my daughter because her hair is THICK and curly and wavy, and the store bought hair ties burst or pull her hair as they are so thin, but the scrunchies I make work BEAUTIFUL with her hair
I like the fact that you include pros and cons of different items that you have tried. Info about the pros and cons of prices was also really eye opening too. You have given really good specific details that some business classes don't really cover.
I did art fairs about 40-50 years ago. It was suggested we want patrons to ask "how many do I want", not "do I want one!"
That's good advertising!!!!!
Your happiness & excitement about your booth with your friend really comes through in this video. It made me smile hearing you talk with such joy. Fantastic ideas for project, too! Thank you so much. 😍
I thought so too!
Yes, I agree. I'm having a rather "blah" night at work, and this really cheered me up!!
I'm so glad you mention the "buying ability of customers"!!!! This is my biggest issue and when I say anything about it on most Facebook pages, I'm told to go to a larger community. 🙄 I try really hard to keep my prices low so that most everyone in every economic situation can afford something.
Hot glue the larger bows onto flip flops. Or onto a sun hat. Or a bag/tote. No giving up here Gal!!!
I love your idea! ❤
Some other ideas that came to mind when you mentioned back to school period
Handmade :
pencil cases,
Purses
Pass holders
Lanyards
Key ring charms
Library bags
Cot cover sets for preschoolers
The way you display your Scrunshies in the horizontal rack makes them look like rows of colorful donuts ... So smart and a lovely surprise when everyone else stacks them on vertical poles ... I'll take a dozen please!!!🍩😍
Store bought scrunchies can be"cheesey" & too many of duplicate colors in same package but not all the colors I need. Great idea !
You are soo clever. Everything is set up beautifully. 👌🏼 I live in a small town too and we all look forward to what will be for sale at the farmers market on the weekend. It feels good to know you’re supporting a local family and taking home , often , a one of a kind handmade item. The surprise bags are really fun. My daughter does surprise bags in her business and she sells a lot of them as well. People love the surprise. Another thing she does it bundling. If you buy a tote bag you get a free bow. Kind of like that.
Ah, thank you! I still need to add more items to my inventory - during fall I would like to do infinity scarves and some other fun warm items. The real challenge is to find a) useful items people want/need b) items that can be made quickly c) items that don't take a lot of fabric as that is one of the biggest expenses. Yes! Bundling is on my list - I just have to sit down and count out the margins and what can I offer as a bundle :) Thank you for sharing your daughter's ideas - super smart!
(^.^) this kind of information imparting is why I love to learn: simple, clear, good-natured teaching.
Just get scraps from apoulstry stores for your bags. It's amazing how much material they will give you, and you'll never have to pay a penny to make those bags.
That's what a professional told me. And I was even given leather!!
Oh wow!!! That’s a great idea!!!
Friendly spelling correction: it is upholstery, not apoulstry . (Yeah, I know, it's one of those oddball English words.)
I love the idea of using thicker elastic in your scrunchies. Thanks for all these tips
I'm going to upsize my elastic because it will sit firmer. Had used 6mm and 9mm but might go 12mm.
How coincidental…. I’ve been thinking about making scrunchies, for a while now, for myself and my daughters and granddaughters…. But also a side thought for selling. Your enthusiasm really inspires me.
When I was selling at craft sales, having a few items at the lower price range draws in people. One Christmas sale a teacher bought out our clothes pin ornaments for gifts for her students. You have several items here that does this. 🎁🎀🎁
Tell us what the clothespin ornaments look like...- another teacher.
All good points. I want to suggest always including a plain neutral color. I often pass up items because there is not a plain neutral color. Shoe straps, the fabric that goes around a pump to hold it on or change from work to casual look. Using less expensive material and reversible, double-sided it will be stronger * flat bottomed.
I'd suggest having a photo in front of the item showing you modeling it's use- like for the bandana, or makeup removal pad. It stays cozy if you are the model!
I agree totally. She should actually be wearing one of them!
Yes, you must be a very beautiful model and friendly 💃 😁
I love the grab bag idea. I think having a booth at a farmers market sounds so fun! I totally want to try that!!!
I remember getting grab bags when I was a kid. My Nana would buy them for me and my cousins. That was over 30 years ago…so nostalgic ☺️
Are the totes lined. Use waxed canvas on bottom half, box the base to make free standing.
What is waxed canvas?
Where do you find this?😊
One idea I've seen and love is vegetable/produce bags made out of recycled saris. It's usually an upcycled poly chiffon, but it's actually strong and so beautiful and almost weightless. They sold them at my co-op for a while as a fundraiser and then sold out. I get compliments on them every single time I use them. They bring joy and are very eco conscious because produce bags are not really recycleable and are difficult to wash and reuse. I think they would be a big seller at a farmer's market. Also a good source for fabric to upcycle are regional goodwill outlets that sell clothing by the pound. If you need a lot of lightweight fabric scraps they would be practically free there...
Another tip, make sure the fair or event you plan to sell at actually exists. A lady in my city was conned out of 100$ table registration fee and had a large inventory or fudge on her hands when she realized there was no crafts market at the advertised venue.
What? That's crazy!!! How horrible that people do that!
😢
For the canvas totes (and other canvas projects) I tend to buy all my canvas from the sale/clearance aisle, so I get them at cotton prices (or lower) and they’re still fun and amazing patterns. Then I can keep my sale price a bit lower for these items.
Ill buy drop cloths and make the prints myself, its not that hard and youll get exactly what you want. Im an artist, so I have all sorts of specialty tools for it, but you definitely dont need any! It all started when I sewed a bag for myself from an actual used drop cloth, it had been under my easel for years, splattered with paint.. and then my friends wanted some too. All because it was kinda pretty and I had hard time just throwing it out. Repetitive patterns are easy to make, stamps and stencils are great, and just paint and brush can do wonders. Only your imagination is the limit. If you have patience, you can carve wood or lino blocks, erasers, even apples or potatoes work. Just remember to carve mirror images if youre doing letters or numbers. Masking tape is your best buddy for clean lines, magic tape (the one you can write on with a pencil) if you need extra crisp lines or your paint/ink is really runny. You can dye the canvas first, just keep in mind what colors you want on top of it; if the base is very dark, test what paints will show on top of it. Tie dye will never go out, even when its supposed to be out, people love it too much. Check your home for different print makers, one of my greatest hits was a boot print. My mother-in-laws inherited crystal bowl made also really pretty chrysanthemum-like flowers, or the bottom of it. I bought super cheap foam alphabets when my goddaughter started school, between the letters I drew simple little kitties and doggies with textile markers, she used that backpack until it turned to dust.. I upholstered two chairs for a wedding gift, they turned out great. Ive saved all bigger off cuts, Ive used them to patch my jeans, made fabric roses and the rest wait for outdoor quilting project I had in mind. Simple pen or makeup baggies are asked the most, people have always need for them. Dont aim for absolute perfection, handmade should look like handmade; besides, perfection is boring. These are my best tips, I hope youll get something out of them. If you need help or troubleshooting buddy, Im here :)
Great Video! I did craft shows years ago. Your idea if small is smart! One thing you might want to do is consider custom work. I did more with that. People would like item and quality but wanted different size or color. I offered shipping and picked up more business because of people wanting to buy but not having room to carry on motorcycle. Grand parents usually with disposable income. Added bonus they wanted something for all grand kids. So I added boy themed items to my mix.
Custom work definitely takes better people skills and more patience. I did some custom knitting for a while but it was painful. Most of the customers loved the idea because they had no clue how to do it, but then had no understanding of the material costs, time, etc. Good for you finding a way to make custom work profitable.
This is awesome. I worked the vending life for 10 years. You meet great people. See awesome things. Travel. But it’s exhausting. Haha. I also did minimum 3 shows a week. I’m so glad to see you getting out there. Your bubble personality will do great!
Hello. Love your videos!
I have searched but can't find the video with the make-up removers 🤔
You, My Lady, are precious, sharing your knowledge with us! Thank you for the bountiful ideas. Now, I gotta get to workin' on my scraps!!
I just was so impressed with ur presentation. I too use to sell every weekend and work too. Now retired and getting ready to move to a large graphic area. I do quilt, cross stitch, paint and whatever. So you have really gotten my creative juices going!!!! You wouldn't believe what I've already gotten rid of. Broke my heart but I had too.. You have given me the motivation I needed!!!!!!! How long have you been selling??????? From the bottom of my heart, God bless you❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Hello
How are you today?
My little Griffon Bruxellious Louis wears a bow tie everyday one has blue on white stripes the other has blue stripes, people always comment about his knitted sweater (I made and designed) and his bow tie which is also his collar.
That is so sweet you make little bows, and you thought about mamas with a budget!
For the totes, you could buy the outdoor fabric at this time of year. Joanns in CA has theirs on at 70% off at the moment. You would have all winter to make them , then sell them out at lower prices in the spring.
Nice - thank you for letting me know, gotta use those coupons too! I bought mine in April, and it wasn't on sale at that point, thank you again :)
For sturdy bags I like canvas drop cloth. Wah them a couple of times and they are super to work with, also you can paint on them!
@@lindacain2240 great idea!
This is really inspiring! I do a lot of crafts, and I'm quite good at some of them, but I never get around to sell anything. I've done some commissions for friends but I find it to be too stressfull. I give away a lot as gifts, which I truly enjoy doing, but it would be nice to earn some extra bucks. People always tell me I should sell my work but I always get tired just thinking about it. However, this way doesn't feel as daunting; I can make stuff at my own pace when I feel like it, and then sell at markets. I live in Sweden so there are probably a ton of regulations, but as markets are a thing, it should be doable. Thank you for yet another great video Alisa!
Wait I don't know who you are but I would've wrote exactly what you wrote 😭 I relate to what you wrote so much!! It's crazy! There's someone out there like me🥲💕
@@SD-qn5df Hi! I think you're really sweet for replying to my comment! It's a great feeling when another person just gets you. "I know what you mean" is probably one of the greatest sentences to hear 😄 💖 I hope you have a great day 🥰
Sounds like me, I knit, sew crochet, bake almost anything in the line of crafts but never feel confident enough to go out there and do it. I'm in Cape Town South Africa and since the pandemic our markets seem to have dwindled.
For the large bows, if your local area has a local sports team or university nearby, solid colors that match these team colors might sell better than patterned ones, as cheerleaders, moms etc. may use them to support their local team :)
Thank you!
You are just the best, you know that? You're so helpful and so sweet and thoughtful and it really shows
Wow, thank you!
i agree!
Ya me two😝 ❤️😀
😁 yes, that is true
Since you seem to enjoy watercolor, water color painted on tiles makes great coasters to sell. They are fun to do and beautiful.
Just found you on Pinterest, off to watch more of your videos. Thank you. :)
You could sell your make-up removal pads in a little seethrough sack made to wash them in it.
I have used scrunchies since the 1st time they were popular because even coated hair bands cause my hair to break off.
Hospital workers like headbands with buttons on the sides for the mask earloops. Ears get sore wearing masks all day.
great tip!!
Great idea!
For the makeup removal pads, could you put one on a string that is attached to the table that is just for customers to touch with a tag that says Makeup Removal Pad?
This was my thought too.
You could have a picture of someone using one near the basket?
I'd guess thru the covid shutdown this is better being packaged to prevent passing any germs.
@@kristinatidwell6563 Of course, but she said they can't really tell what they are for, so I suggested having one out and secured with a string to something just so they could feel it and understand what they are for.
@@liz3684 I love that idea
Hello. Love your video!
Can you tell me what video of yours has the little wrist fanny pack?
Clare, last video of this playlist - th-cam.com/video/o3mVnBBInoA/w-d-xo.html
Thank you!!!!!!!!!!@@ThoughtfulCreativity
I would definitely put the bananas on a mold/model/wig holder. You could display one set of the makeup removers like they do fabric swatches. You could offer the makeup removers in a bigger size and I would definitely market them as sustainable! Your advice is great and your products are beautiful 💕
Here is an idea that I haven't seen in craft fairs (and I've been to many over the years). How about glam button covers? It would be a great use of sparkly, satiny fabrics to make up a "slip cover" to go over an existing button. For me I had a wooden button (about 1") on a nice black jacket and thought the jacket would also be great for evening wear. The only problem was the button. So instead of buying a new jacket, why not just have a fancy cover to put over the button. It would only need some narrow elastic in a casing around the outer edge of a fabric circle to draw it in to fit snugly over the button. Hope you may give this a try.... Thanks for all your great videos too.
This is a very helpful video. Even if you will not sell your products, you can put together a gift stack, so you always have a gift ready when you need one. Thank you for your generosity :)
I am watching your vid at 2:12 in the morning and you mentioned the tooth fairy it reminded me to call her up for my daughter who just had a tooth pulled during the day! Thanks for the reminder 🧚♂️🧚♀️🧚💸
I LOVE THAT FOX HEADBAND FABRIC. Wow! This is a great, very useful video, and I'm so grateful to you. I don't sell in public, but I do feel like if they sell well, they'll probably also make welcome gifts! Double score for us!
as long as there are still dancers with buns? You will find scrunchies. I had a loose scrunchie and my cat wore it around her neck like a collar. So stylish lol
Thank you for this inspiring and amazing video! I've just taken up sewing myself and I'm already thinking about scaling to sell.. it's so fun.. and quick to make something beautiful... textile art! As a business major, I especially appreciated the honesty about to think with the customer and varying price points in mind. I will certainly be watching more of your videos in the future. Thank you for being so genuine and candid!
For the makeup removal pads you could have them in a basket and then have one out attached to the basket on a little string so people can see what it feels like.
I so love your videos and also admire your attitude and approach to life. I especially like the framed wording on your wall at the beginning of this video: Stay Humble - Be Kind - Work Hard
I just got a small surprise from the. “Sunbrella” type outdoor fabric- Ive previously been able to spot clean similar materials, but my project needed machine washing, and i chanced drying it on low in the dryer. I never would have guessed, but the fabric pilled noticeably! Now I know. The next iteration of my project will be a sturdy “cotton canvas”.
Hmmm... interesting, because I pre-wash all my fabrics, including for the totes and all was fine, no color change, no pilling or anything else!
Big hair bows sell in our area in the school team colors. You might gift a set to a volleyball team and watch the others come buy!
I love your ending comment about the treat it like a business and not a hobby. They said that at my Mary Kay zoom meeting when I first started. I use it for my craft fairs also. I do only crochet and like you said we have good days and others where it’s not as popular but I keep going. Thanks for all your tips.
I hope you safely got out of that scam and are doing better now!
Good to see you expanding your horizons and finding new ways to share your sewing with the rest of the world! I'm definitely feeling inspired :) Re: the tote bags - you could probably lower the cost by using thrifted fabric (like curtains) and it could be a selling point too - sustainable, recycled, Earth-friendly etc. All the best!
Old sheets and curtain fabrics from thrift stores are my staples for bag sewing #Beyondawesomebags is my project to promote #mentalhealthawareness #disabilityawareness #environment #VIOLENCEISNEVEROK and other community causes
I love using thrifted fabrics!
This is like reading my mind. Ive been wanting to do a farmer's market stall for the longest while, but now that fabric stores have reopened, I'm looking into making that happen.
YOU are precious! Thank you for giving your wisdom, understanding and experience so generously! You are also SO encouraging. as you know, being filled with thoughts and ideas is something to be contended with, good and bad,
You are so generous with your information but what impresses me the most is your honesty. I have so much respect for you to go into so much honest detail in order to help others who may be considering going down the selling path. ❤
At a farmers market, you say...
Grow bags. Get heavy duty landscape fabric and some UV resistant thread for outdoor cushions, etc. Make bags in sizes from 2.5 gallon/10 liter, 4 gallon/15 liter, 8 gallon/30 liter volime.
Make bags with circle bottom, and a long strip of fabric for the walls. No need to hem anything, as the fabric does not ravel.
Grow bags are great for home gardens, and will last for 3 or 4 years with some gentle handling. They are a very affordable alternative to clay pots, and have some benefits to the plants' growth.
Great ideas! All of your items are very nice. Your big bows would probably also sell well if you made them in your local school and football team colors. A lot of the cheerleaders and family members want to dress with their team colors. Thanks for sharing.
This! Cheerleaders, softball, volleyball and sometimes basketball all commonly wear bows with their ponies and braids. If you wanted to try selling online bows for sports is an easy one to market.
Yes! I make scrunches for my sister in her school colours! She loves them and is always asking for more, I used to do the same when I was in school. Would be very popular!
@@lavendarcrash2941 I’m in
@@friedchicken3242 op guy ppp
You have such a charming personality
I am 8 years Old and I can sew
You are amazing! 💞💞💞
@@MadisonAmador-z4r Wow thats great getting to know your talent
Add strip across to hold to fingers whe using pad ...this way you can have separate pads and separate exfoliating ones...making nice set of 1exfol and 4 pads ...you can make set the lux with sleeping mask with gel access pouch or moisturising socks ...all can be done from scraps. Don't overpack them sell separately abd if client want set just pack in fancy box with window . Flexibility is a must .
I was actually just making a list of easy things I wanted to make to sell at a farmers market when I saw your video! Thanks for the ideas!
For the tote bags, price out using regular cotton with either fusible fleece or interfacing to make them sturdy. It may be a cost saver
Your energy and voice is so wonderful, I would buy anything from you! You are a natural at selling!
I am watching this several months after you posted this, but I love your content and presentation of your instructions. By now, you may have decided to continue to make your large bows to be able to use for ponytails. I used to love large bows for my ponytails when I had long hair.
This is just what I needed. A purpose for my in-between quilt making time. Also, you would make such a lovely motivational speaker! Thank you so much.
I dint skip a min of this video. It was so informative. Thank u so much for making this video
Wow .. this is the reason you have been busy .. Thank you sharing .. this seems so exciting.. on the big bows if you want to sell them . I suggest not to display them flat instead put it in a Dolls’ Head or a Plush toys’s head .. This will be a catch getter for your customers and specialty on the girly kiddos ...also for the cotton make pad remover.. a nice sign would help customer understand the ideas ... I am so excited for you .. It will be nice to share some footage of your day at the market 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🤝🤝🤝🥳🥳🥳🥳❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Great ideas, thank YOU so much!
For the eco friendly reusable makeup removal pads I suggest maybe adding a little print out inside the packaging that says what they are and maybe care instructions such as if they are machine washable and etc.
Maybe you could market the larger bows as backpack bows! I know big hair bows are sort of going out of fashion, but backpack bows are super cute
LOVE these ideas! Your channel is such a calm blessing to us. Thank you so much for sharing your ideas and experiences with us!
How about putting big bows with different designs like that on their purse strap/handle to break up solid color outfits or to accent the shoes
I like that you mentioned the not so great crafts. It shows that we ca create great things and ... ...well not so great things. I create greeting cards and most of the time they turn out good but some .... well... not so good. Fun sharing.
In 'my day' farmers markets were called craft shows .... and I always shared a table with my sister-in-law. I had a lot of fun doing them ..... now .... I enjoy going to the 'farmers market' !!!!!
Ah yes, we have craft shows too, but this one is a farmer's market, since we have local farmers and produce, honey, jams and etc. Craft shows in our area are so so expensive to apply for!
My first time here. Your enthusiasm is captivating. You have some really great ideas and I like how you let us know what hasn't worked. I am now retired and have gotten my trusty sewing machine out. I've been looking for some ideas for something to do. It's supposed to snow just west and north of us and my favorite thing to do during snowfalls or rainy days is sew. Keep up the good work.
Try big bow as a decoration for bag.
You could make matching adult/child bows and matching owner/doggie bows!
I like that top on the ...whatchamacallit...behind you! I love sewing. I used to do all the bazaars and craft shows near my town. Tired me out!
Thank you so much for sharing your works!
Busy hands!
Dressmakers dummy or form is one term for the oh yes mannequin
For the scrunchies you should put them on a paper towel holder from dollar tree.
I love all of your ideas!!! Can you give us an idea of how much you sell these items for?
This is a great question.
Please give us an idea of what ppl are willing to pay for items.
I've been requested a lot of messenger bags lately. They're a lot of work, but they're so nifty!
Yes please do another video follow up about the one headband cover. I think you could rock it.
I’ve worn scrunchies for long time now to keep my long hair out of my way.
Exactly! :)
Great ideas for the craft fair at church. Thank you.
I like ur headband so much 💕 really beautiful. Want a full tutorial of this one
Just your luck :) the fist project in this video is the headband - th-cam.com/video/1x8Cw-fj8Ic/w-d-xo.html
We need a pattern for your new method of making the hair scrunchies please!!
In my area of the U.S.A., Grab Bag fund raising (for a public library) has never gone well. Someone will always sneak the bags off somewhere else, rip them open, scatter out the objects that were inside the bags, and take what they want (without paying for anything). Using clear plastic bags does not stop it from happening either. I caught a woman in another room of the library trashing a clear plastic grab bag project. When I ask her what she was doing she informed me, "I only want these little blue books." All the little blue books were the same; and, there was one in each clear plastic grab bag. We never had a grab bag fund raiser project last for a full day before the bags were trash. We never made any money from the projects; and, the Grab Bags project always clost us money.
Ummm.... I am not sure what are you referring to, so sorry to hear that. But I never had any of these problems that you have described and I am standing right there to take care of the payment, no one walks off or trashes a grab bag...
I love your all works and it’s pleasure to hear you 💗 from Srilanka.
I am very interested in how you determine retail pricing. Please share.
Thank you so much for all your videos, I look forward to your videos every week. Do you have a video for the top you’re wearing?
Yes I do, you can find it on my channel.
Congratulations may your business grow larger!!!
You are such a joy to watch and learn from. Lovely personality and so smart. Not to mention very talented as well. Great video and I wish you much success.
Thank you so much for sharing your insight and ideas. Your enthusiasm is contagious 👍🏻 I especially love the idea of the larger elastic scrunchie. I have very long/thick hair and store bought hair ties snap after just a few uses - problem solved 👏🏻