Image via Pexels
Do you find deep enjoyment in crafting? Whether it's card making or crocheting, taking a creative concept and making it into a physical reality can be a highly enjoyable thing. So enjoyable in fact, that you have probably wondered if there’s a way to take your hobby full time and generate an income from it.
The good news is that the global market for handmade and personalised goods is expanding. The largest online platform for independent craft businesses is Etsy, which has been on a steady growth trajectory that shows no sign of slowing for the past four years. Other arenas such as Amazon Handmade and eBay are also booming. So if you're ready to take the next step and scale up what you love to do into a viable business, it could be a great time.
Set A Fair Price
A huge barrier that awaits hobbyists turning pro is knowing what to charge for their output. Charge too little and you don't have a sustainable business. Charge too much and you risk never making a sale. Start by making sure you understand exactly what your costs are. List out all the materials and other costs, from electricity to equipment, that go into creating your wares. This allows you to work out a bottom line hourly rate. From there, do some market research to find out what other makers are charging for similar items that people are willing to pay. If you produce commissions, you may want to be open to negotiating on the price, but at least you'll have a baseline figure that you know you can't reduce beyond without missing the break even mark.
Get Professional
Customers expect a certain standard from any commercially available goods, so you won't get away with cutting corners for long. Make sure you have equipment and tools that will allow you to produce commercial grade pieces. This may require a little investment in materials or tools. Use sites like www.vinylcuttingmachineguide.com to shop around for specific items of equipment and get the best deal. You could also try looking for second hand pieces of equipment and often forum sites for your particular craft can be a great source for these items, whether you're into sugarcraft or making handmade cards.
Develop Your Brand
Standing out in a crowded marketplace is something you must master if you want to create a successful business, and that means creating a consistent brand identity. Homemade does not have to mean unprofessional. Choosing a name for your business is the first step, as well as using a site like www.wix.com to set up a website, and perhaps setting up an Instagram or a Twitter account to connect with your customers as well. Use your online presence to illustrate the story behind your crafts and how unique they are - this is essential as customers are deliberately buying into something with a backstory that hasn't been mass produced. Spend time forging a real connection with those who are interested in what you do and not only are you more likely to pick up repeat custom but your loyal customers will also recommend you to others.
post may contain affiliate links
Post a Comment