Start a Craft Business

How To Start A Photography Business On The Side: A Step By Step Guide

Starting a photography business on the side can be a great way to make extra money from your hobby without giving up the security of your full-time job.

Still, as exciting as it can be, making a success of your photography side hustle won’t be without its challenges.

To make life easier, I’ve drawn on my own experience as a small business owner and passionate photographer to create this simple, 12-step guide, teaching you everything you need to know to succeed.

How to Start a Photography Business on The Side: A Simple 12-Step Process

1. Choose a Niche

The first step towards starting your photography side business is deciding what kind of business you want to operate.

Sure, you could promote yourself as a general photographer for hire, but you’ll find that everything from creating a business plan to finding clients is much easier if you first pick a niche.

The best way to do this is to consider three things:

What you enjoy
What you’re really good at
What kind of competition exists.

For example, it’s no secret that wedding photography can be incredibly lucrative, netting qualified photographers an average of $55 per hour.

Still, wedding photographers typically charge so much because they have the photography skills and experience to not only deliver exceptional photographs but also provide stellar service throughout the happy couple’s big day.

So, if that’s a niche you’re considering breaking into, you’ll need to be fully confident that you’re good enough to succeed in a competitive market.

Another option is to pick a couple of closely-related niches.

For example, if you want to make money as a live music photographer, it makes sense to offer studio photography sessions for musicians. You could even draw on your experience of shooting at busy, lively concerts to provide services as event photography.

2. Create Your Business Plan

As a right-brained creative type, business planning may not seem like the most enthralling task in the world, but it’s an invaluable process for working out the who, what, where, and how of your new venture.

Some things you’ll need to include in your photography business plan include:

A. Type of Business Structure

The most common business structures for new startups are sole proprietorships and LLCs (Limited Liability Companies).

As a solopreneur, launching your business as a sole proprietor is a popular option, as it’s the most straightforward and affordable entity to establish.

B. Target Customers

The type of customers looking for portrait photography services will be different from those looking for real estate photography or nature lovers hoping to buy landscape photography prints for their homes.

This is why it was so important to determine your niche earlier. It will help tremendously in doing market research to identify your ideal customers, a process that will later prove essential for advertising your services.

C. Strengths and Weaknesses

Here’s where it pays to be very honest with yourself about what you’re good at and what you’re not so good at.

Identifying your strengths will help you create a compelling USP (Unique Selling Point) that enables you to stand out from the slew of other professionals in your niche.

Meanwhile, admitting your weaknesses can reveal anything you may need help with.

For example, if you’re a magician in the studio but have a hard time with administrative tasks like booking appointments and ensuring invoices get paid, those may be tasks you choose to outsource to someone else.

This exercise can also help you to think realistically about how you’ll cope with being a professional photographer.

Think about it:

Suppose you’re a shy introvert who doesn’t enjoy dealing with people. Are you really going to be OK doing weddings, family portraits, or other types of photography that involve a lot of interaction with clients?

D. How Will You Fund Your Business?

If you’re looking into starting a photography side hustle, then it’s reasonable to assume that you’re already a passionate photographer with at least some equipment.

However, you may need to upgrade some pieces of kit to shoot at a professional standard. Even if you don’t, you’ll still incur some unavoidable expenses like business cards, websites, and business registration fees.

So how are you going to pay for it?

To answer that question, write down a list of everything you need to pay for and research how much each item will cost.

Next, consider whether you can cover those costs with your savings or 9-5 earnings or by borrowing from family and friends.

3. Register Your Business

The last thing you want is for your business to fail only because you didn’t file the right paperwork, so these next three steps will ensure that everything is legitimate and above board.

As a sole proprietor, you’ll be required to register your Doing Business Name (DBA) in most states.

You can register this name, also referred to as an ‘assumed name’ or ‘assumed business name’ with your local County Clerk or Register of Deeds office.

Depending on where you’re based and how you plan to operate, there may be licenses and other officialities you need to register for before.

5. Open a Business Bank Account

You may have heard that sole proprietors aren’t legally required to have a designated bank account purely for their business.

Not only does the IRS recommend it, but keeping your business banking separate from your personal banking will also make life much easier for you when it comes to things like filing taxes and applying for funding.

6. Select the Right Insurance

As with any business, there are all kinds of things that could unexpectedly go wrong for professional photographers.

From expensive cameras being stolen or damaged to customers tripping over your backdrop and injuring themselves, such problems can be so costly that they can easily toll the death knell for your side hustle.

This is why it’s so essential to have the right insurance in place, ensuring that your business is well covered should the worst happen.

7. Buy or Upgrade Your Equipment

If your business plan revealed the need for new equipment, now’s the time to invest in it.

It may be that you need to upgrade your old camera to a newer model or stock up on props and backdrops for studio work.

Do you need to buy software such as Adobe Photoshop for editing your photos? If so, now’s the time to get it.

What you’re doing here is making sure that you have everything in place so that when those first potential clients do come calling, you’re ready to provide exactly what they need to the highest standards.

8. Showcase Your Best Work in a Portfolio

So, your photography side business is legitimate, and you’re well-prepared to start taking on clients.

The question, of course, is how do you find them?

To begin, you will need a portfolio of your best work that demonstrates what you’re capable of.

Although it’s a good idea to have a physical portfolio for face-to-face discussions with potential clients, any photographer hoping to run a successful business in the digital age will need an online portfolio too.

You can use portfolio builder tools like Format to create an attractive digital showcase for your photography, promote your services, and accept customer inquiries via an online contact form.

To avoid confusing customers, your portfolio should mainly focus on photographs relating to the niche you chose earlier.

After all, could you imagine looking up a wedding photographer you were considering hiring only to find that their entire portfolio consisted entirely of product photography?

9. Use Contests to Boost Your Reputation

The key to success in any business is to earn a reputation as being among the very best at what you do.

In time, you’ll be able to grow your own reputation as a photographer by delivering amazing work for your clients and getting positive reviews and referrals in return.

Until then, you can get the ball rolling by entering photography competitions.

Submitting a photo should mean that it’s displayed as part of the competition exhibit, exposing your work to a broader audience.

More importantly, if you win, or even if you only place, it can do wonders for your credibility.

Accoldates from photo contests that are determined by a jury rather than a public vote serve as a vote of confidence from industry professionals, something which can go a long way to establishing yourself as a photographer of some distinction.

Besides, what client wouldn’t want to work with an award-winning photographer?

Sites like Expert Photography are a massive help in finding large competitions. However, as a photography enthusiast myself, I often find that smaller, local contests are just as good for building your reputation in the area you want to get clients from.

Many such competitions tend to fly under the radar, so the best way to find out about them is by asking around at local libraries, art galleries, and other creative or cultural spaces in your area.

You may also want to join local photographers’ associations as they can be a great source of news on new photography competitions.

As an additional benefit, photography contests in which work is displayed in a physical location, such as a gallery, typically allow entrants to add a price tag to their work, making them another great source of revenue should you win.

10. Create a Marketing Plan to Attract Clients

Entering contests is a great way to start establishing yourself as a photographer, but if you’re going to make real money from your passion, then you’ll need a marketing plan that covers both online and offline marketing channels.

Some approaches to consider include:

A. Using Social Media

The visual nature of social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, combined with their enormous numbers of active users, make them essential marketing tools for any business.

You can use these platforms to showcase highlights of recent shoots, provide behind-the-scenes insights to show customers what it’s really like to work with you as their photographer and offer discounts and special offers.

B. Distributing Print Marketing Materials

Flyers, brochures, and similar printed materials still have their place in the digital world.

To create your print marketing materials without the cost of hiring a professional designer, use graphic design tools like Canva or online print companies like VistaPrint.

Once printed, consider running a door drop campaign and partnering with other local businesses to leave flyers at their location.

The increased brand visibility alone can go a long way to ensuring potential customers remember your name when they come to need a photographer.

C. Optimizing for Local Search

Along with using search engine optimization techniques to ensure your portfolio site ranks for location-based keywords, it also pays to create optimized profiles on platforms such as Google My Business and Yelp.

Doing so significantly boosts your chances of appearing in search results when people search for things like “portrait photographer near me” or “professional photographer in Chicago.”

D. Registering for Freelancer Marketplaces

Plenty of freelance photographers advertise their services on freelance marketplace sites like Fiverr and Upwork.

Though you may not make as much from such platforms as you would if you and your clients worked directly together, they can be a good way to begin building your client base when you first get started.

You’ll also benefit by signing up for dedicated photographer marketplace sites such as:

11. Host a Launch Event

One great way to draw as much attention as possible to your new business is to officially launch it with an event.

Talk to local creative spaces, or even bars and restaurants, about hosting an event to celebrate the opening of your photography business.

Personally invite everyone you can and promote the heck out of it with flyers, posters, and even a press release to the local papers.

On the night, use the event space to display your work and marketing materials, and look at ways that you make the event even more memorable such as by providing food, drink, and entertainment.

12. Diversify Your Income by Selling Stock Photography

Providing photography services for clients isn’t the only way to make money from your talent.

Whether you’re just starting out and waiting for your marketing to take effect or you’re between clients, there are other things you can do to diversify your income streams, such as selling stock photography.

Stock photo sites like Alamy, Shutterstock, and iStockPhotos allow you to sell stock images to business owners and creatives for use on their blog posts, brochures, or other marketing materials.

Although payouts vary from platform to platform, this can prove to be a good source of passive income.

Personally, I’ve made over $600 on Alamy just by selling stock photos I took at various landmarks and locations while traveling on vacation. What’s more, almost $300 of that came from a single sale.

Other ways to diversify your income as a photographer include:

Teach local photography classes
Create an online photography course
Sell prints and original works at art fairs and vendor events
Sell your work on Etsy.

How to Start a Photography Business on the Side: Takeaways

If you’ve read this guide from start to finish, you now know exactly what it takes to start a photography business on the side.

For example, you’ve learned to:

Start by defining your niche – Knowing exactly what kind of photography services you want to offer will help you make important decisions when it comes to building your business and finding customers.
Tackle the business side first – Creating a business plan, registering and insuring your business, and opening a bank account aren’t nearly as exciting as being out there with your camera, but they’re vital for ensuring your side gig is a legitimate operation.
Use multiple approaches to attract clients – Websites, social media, and local search optimization will help you win clients online, whereas print materials and launch events can do the same offline.
Create several revenue streams – Selling stock photos, teaching photography, and selling your work directly are all fantastic ways to make additional income as a skilled photographer.

How to Start a Craft Business

https://craftyscrappyhappy.net/should-i-start-an-llc-for-my-craft-business/https://craftyscrappyhappy.net/my-creative-crafting-business-name-ideas/

The business of making and selling handcrafted products has become extremely popular over the last few years. With the growth of the craft industry, especially on online marketplaces like Etsy and Amazon Handmade, you could say that after decades of being seen as tacky or inferior, handmade has, at last, come into its own.

But how do you start your own craft business? Starting your own business can be one of the most exciting things you ever do, especially if handmade crafts is your passion. But it will also be a lot of hard work. Being self-employed is no easy feat, and it’s certainly not for everyone. There’s a reason people say, “Don’t quit your day job.” The key to being successful with your craft business is to think and plan ahead. As with any task or goal, a well-researched plan of action will get you off to a good start.

Here are some basic tips on how to start a craft business from the ground up.

1. Choose a niche

One of the first things you should do when starting a new craft business is to decide what it is you want to make and sell. Many new craft sellers make the mistake of trying to start with too many different types of ideas. The best way to build a business is, to begin with, one or two good unique products and then expand from there in time. Narrowing down your niche will help you to stand out as happy customers will do marketing for you as the person as the expert in whatever craft you choose. If you’re making things that appeal to everyone, it’s gong to be next to impossible for people to remember you.

Also see – How to make craft products that stand out from the crowd

To help you decide what products you will sell first, think about your specific skills. What crafts are you best at? For instance, if you are an expert at quilting but you also dabble in knitting or needle felting, start with quilted items. You want to put your best foot forward, so you should make your first available merchandise of the very best quality that you can produce. This will help your business to start off with a great public image, which will in time build your reputation. You can always add new product lines once you have been established for a while.

2. Write a business plan

While you may not think you need a business plan, this will force you to get ideas about the business out of your head and on paper. It covers important things like who I am selling to, how I market to them, whether this is a full-time business or a side project or hobby business to make some extra money, and how many items do I need to sell to actually make a profit. You know, the important stuff.

Also see – How much money can you make with a craft business?

A formal business plan may be overkill, especially if you aren’t needing funding for the costs to start a craft business, but don’t skip this step. There are craft business plan templates out there to help you get started so you aren’t just staring at a blank piece of paper.

3. Choose a business name

Your business name is generally the first thing that potential customers will see. It identifies you as a merchant, gives customers an idea of what you sell, and gives a little insight into your personality. You should think very carefully about your business name because you want it to make an impact.

A lot of new business owners like to use their own names in their business name –such as Katie’s Cute Quilts. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with this idea, ‘Katie’ is a wasted word. Why? Because no one knows or cares, who Katie is. Potential customers are not going to be searching for a business based on a first name. They are going to be looking for things like specific products, locations, crafting techniques, etc. ‘Cute’ is a wasted word as well, because the term is fairly subjective. What one person thinks is cute, another might just as easily think of as tacky.

Try to incorporate specific, descriptive words into your company name. This way, you will draw more traffic to your Web site or more customers to your craft table. Think about the impact of a business name like Greenville Country Quilts. This business name tells customers specifically where the company is located, what products they make, and the style of the products. It’s much more precise than Katie’s Cute Quilts.

Also see: My creative crafting business name ideas

4. Choose a selling venue

Where and how you choose to sell your handmade products is also a major decision to make for any new craft business owner. Many people choose to sell their crafts online exclusively, whether it be their own online shop or an online marketplace like an Etsy shop. Some will focus on their own retail shop, while others prefer to sell at craft fairs, flea markets, and other events. You may also be interested in getting your products into consignment shops. There are many different ways of selling your craft items. So, how do you decide which method of selling is best for you?

What Licenses do Crafters Need to Sell at Craft Shows?

Research is key to choosing the right selling venue. If you’re interested in selling online, look at several different online craft marketplaces or social media platforms, like Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest, and find out what makes each one unique. If you can, talk to other sellers on those sites to get an idea of how happy they are with their experience. You can also look at reviews of these Web sites around the Internet. Or you could join a crafting forum to talk to other crafters around the world about how and where they sell online.

If you want to sell at craft fairs, the best place to start looking for events is by searching online. However, don’t forget to look into local events that may not be advertised on the Internet. You can often find out about local fairs by checking newspapers, reading announcement boards at libraries, or simply asking around. A lot of fellow crafters are happy to share their experiences with various craft fairs. Be sure to have lots of business cards, so people can find you after the shows.

Also see – Where to market a craft business

Getting your handmade goods into local shops can seem intimidating. But it’s really not that difficult a process once you know where to start. Gather some good photographs of your work and create a portfolio, or pack some samples of your work neatly in a presentation case or box. Take your work or photos to any local shops you’re interested in and ask them if they take consignment. Many shop owners will happily look at your products and give you a form to fill out so that you can get started selling with them. If your products are good, there’s no reason to be timid about asking.

Also see – How to market a craft business

Keep in mind that in addition to knowing where you are going to sell your handmade business wares, you will need to also look at collecting sales tax if you are selling in a state that charges it. Sales tax tends to vary depending on where products are being sold, such as when selling at a craft fair or craft show.

5. Decide on a business structure

The final step, and probably the most important, is to get your business structure (sometimes called a legal structure or business entity) in order. Some states require you to register as self-employed (sole proprietorship) before you begin selling, while others will allow you to simply file your self-employment tax return at the end of your first year of business.

You may also want to look into separating your small business and personal assets in the unlikely but possible event that you could be sued. I’m a big fan of having a Limited Liability Company (LLC) since it’s easier to run than a Corporation. Learn more about business structures and try the quiz to find which one is right for you.

It’s vital that you follow the tax laws of your state and country if you want to run a successful business that will grow and thrive for years to come. There’s no excuse for not filing your taxes, no matter how much of a pain you may find it to be. It’s always better to have your paperwork in order.

In conclusion, the internet has made it easy for almost anyone to start a craft business. In fact, in today’s economy, many people are choosing self-employment as a more certain way of earning money. If you love crafting and you’re good at it, you’re in the perfect position to start your own business. Just remember to start with a good, solid plan.

Also see: Should I start an LLC for my craft business?

6. Source supplies

A consistent source of supplies is critical for a craft business. Without a reliable source, you may not have access to make more of your popular crafts. The right source will largely vary depending on the type of crafts made and how much is sold.

It’s very common to buy supplies from local craft stores or online retailers, which is perfect since there are no order minimums, and you can pick up what you need when you need it or have it quickly shipped. The downside of this convenience is that the price will be higher than purchasing in bulk. Fortunately, many craft stores have a loyalty program or offer discounts for their frequent shoppers, which will help save some money.

The other option is to purchase supplies in bulk directly from manufacturers, which is a great option if you need large quantities of supplies or need specific items that are hard to find in retail stores. While the pricing is better, the downside is that there is often a minimum order, and while the per unit cost is cheaper, there can be a significant upfront cost to cover.

7. Make sure your business is properly registered

Every state and community has different rules and regulations for starting a business. Many owners set up as a home-based craft business to keep their overhead low, so be sure to check at the local level to see if there if a home-based business needs to get a business license.

A nice resource with the steps to start a business in each state is located at StartingYourBusiness.com.

A Crafters List of Creative Crafting Business Names

Choosing the right name for your craft business is an important step in starting a business. After all, it’s often a reflection on the owner personally, but it is also how customers will come to find a business.

A good name will help to differentiate your business from the competition and be memorable enough for customers to come back and buy from you. But, with so many options out there, picking the perfect name can be a difficult process – but don’t worry! I’m going to be taking a look at some key things to consider when coming up with a craft business name and give a bunch of examples of names that may help if you are stuck.

Also see: How to start a craft business

Tips for Creating a Unique Crafting Business Name

Consider Your Craft Type

When coming up with a craft business name, it is important to consider the type of craft you are producing. If your craft is more artistic, like painting or sculpting, then you may want to think of something that conveys creativity and artistry. Likewise, if your craft is more functional, such as furniture making or jewelry design, then your name should convey quality and craftsmanship.

Think of Your Audience

Your crafting business name should reflect the type of audience you are targeting. If your target customers are younger, you may want to opt for a more modern and trendy name. If your customer base is older, then you may want to use words that convey quality and craftsmanship.

Think of Alliteration

Alliteration is a great way to create a catchy and memorable business name. Alliteration uses the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words, such as “Crafty Creations” or “Fabulous Fabrics.” This type of name is often catchy and easy to remember.

Use puns and rhyming names

Puns and rhyming words are another great way to create a unique craft business name. For example, you could have “A Needle in a Haystack” or “Pretty as a Button”. These types of names tend to be fun and memorable, making them perfect for crafting businesses.

Combine Words

Combining words, such as “Makers & Mends” or “Sew & So” can create a unique craft business name. Combinations like these tend to be creative and concise, making them great choices for crafting businesses.

Make it easy to remember

When coming up with a craft business name, it is important to make sure that it is easy to remember. If the name is too long or complicated, people may have a hard time remembering it. To make sure your business name is memorable, try using simple words and avoiding complex language.

Consider Location While Naming a Craft Business

Including a local reference in your craft business name can be a great way to make it stand out. Whether you include the city or state name, or even a specific landmark, having a location-based name can help customers identify with your business.

Ultimately, when crafting a unique craft business name, creativity and originality are key. Try to think outside the box and come up with something that is fun, memorable, and reflective of your business. With a bit of creativity, you can create a unique craft business name that stands out from the crowd!

Remember to Check the Availability

Once you have come up with a craft business name, it is important to make sure that the name is available to use.

To start off, check with your local government to make sure the name has not already been taken by another business in your area. In some states, each registered business has to be unique, while in others, there may not be any restrictions.

Additionally, you should also search online to make sure that the domain name and social media usernames are available to use. This will help ensure that the name you create is unique and available for your business.

Also see: Should I start an LLC for my craft business

Ideas for Naming Your Craft Business

If you are looking for some ideas to get started, here are a few potential names for your crafting business to give you some inspiration.

Craft Fair Business Names

Arts & Crafts Emporium
The Creative Collective
Handmade Haven
Local Artisans Market
Unique Boutique Bazaar
Maker’s Marketplace
Crafting Carnival
DIY Delights
Sewing Sensations
Festival of Funky Finds
Homegrown Happiness
Artisan’s Arcade
Crafty Extravaganza
Handcrafted Heavens
Uniquely You Marketplace
Perfectly Picked Pieces

Cute Craft Shop Business Names

Crafty Abode
Cute Creations Co.
Pretty as a Button Boutique
DIY Divas
Sew to Success
Creative Crafting Commune
Handmade Havens
Artfully Automated Arts & Crafts Shop
Buttons & Bows
Funky Finds Boutique
Happy Craft Shoppe
Fabric Fantasies
Rustic Country Crafts
Maker’s Marvels
The Funky Workshop
Woodworking Wonders
Craft House
Craft Magic
One-of-a Kind Creations
The Crafty Corner Store
Handcrafted Heavens Boutique
Paint & Palettes
Scrapbooking Superstars
Needlework Nirvana
The Creativity Corner
A Crafty Affair
Crafting Cafe & Boutique
The Creative Crafter’s Co-op
Handmade Havens Store
Arts & Crafts Emporium

Catchy Craft Business Names

Creative Crafters Co.
Woodworking Wonders
Arts & Crafts Emporium
The Fabulous Factory
DIY Divas
Sewing Sensations
Handmade Havens Store
Unique Boutique Bazaar
Creative Minds
Maker’s Marvels
Fabric Fantasies
Crafty Kids
A Needle in a Haystack
Pretty as a Button Boutique
Cute Creations Co
Crafty Abode
Perfectly Picked Pieces
Artfully Automated Arts & Crafts Shop
Funky Finds Boutique
Festival of Funky Finds
Homegrown Happiness
Local Artisans Market

Art Business Name Ideas

Artistic Expressions
Creative Canvas
The Artist’s Corner
The Art Box
Picture Perfect Arts
Colorful Creations Boutique
Artisanal Arts & Crafts Shop
Masterpiece Makers
Gallery of Wonders
Wonderful Watercolors
The Drawing Board
Uniquely You Crafts
The Crafter’s Corner
Creativity Compound
Visionary Visions
Artist’s Alley Boutique
Artisanal Expressions Shop
Making Memories with Arts & Crafts
Creative Chaos Crafts
Creative Corner Studio
Artfully Designed Designs

Handmade Craft Business Names

Crafty Abundance
Handmade Havens
Artfully Automated Arts & Crafts Shop
Unique Boutique Bazaar
Maker’s Marvels
Sewing Sensations
DIY Delights
Handicraft Arts
The Crafty Kid
Craft Creation
Homegrown Happiness
Crafting Carnival
Fabric Fantasies
Artisan’s Arcade
Crafty Extravaganza
Handcrafted Heavens Boutique
Uniquely You Marketplace
Perfectly Picked Pieces Shop
Local Artisans Market
The Creative Collective
Maker’s Marketplace
Festival of Funky Finds
Handmade Heaven Store
The Crafty Crafter
Stitching Station
Woodworking Wonders
Pottery Palace
Creative Creations

Punny Craft Company Names

Knot Your Average Crafts
Just Sew Cute Boutique
Stitch ‘N Bitch
Wool You Believe It?
Yarn-tastic Crafts
A Seamless Creation
Needle in a Haystack Finds
Time to Weave
Piece by Piece Boutique
Wood U Believe It?
The Craft Flair
Crafting Confetti
A Stitch Above the Rest
Stick with it Boutique
Picture Perfect Creations
Paint it Up and Down
The Creative Closet
Fabricate Fun Boutique
Paint-tastically Crafty
Threads of Success
Crochet Me Away!

Quirky Crafty Names

Crafty Chaos
Sew Much Fun Boutique
Piece Together Paradise
Crafting Concoctions
Artfully Automated Arts & Crafts Shop
Homegrown Happiness Boutique
Stitch in Time Creations
Yarn-tastic Boutique
Make It Sew Shop
Fabric Fantasies
Crafting Confetti
Wonderful Watercolors
Paint & Palettes Boutique
Picture Perfect Creations
The Crafty Corner Store
Uniquely You Marketplace
A Crafty Affair
Maker’s Marvels
Scrapbooking Superstars
Creativity Compound Boutique
Creative Creations Emporium
Crafting Cafe & Boutique
A Stitch Above the Rest
Wood U Believe It?
Needlework Nirvana Boutique

Unique Names for a Craft Business

One-of-a Kind Creations
The Funky Workshop
Artisanal Expressions Shop
Fabrics of Fancy Boutique
Creative Canvas
The Artist’s Corner
Craft Angels
Picture Perfect Arts
Colorful Creations Boutique
Artisanal Arts & Crafts Shop
Masterpiece Makers
Lone Star Charm
Gallery of Wonders
Wonderful Watercolors
The Drawing Board
Uniquely You Crafts
The Crafter’s Corner
Creativity Compound
Visionary Visions
Artist’s Alley Boutique
Artisanal Expressions Shop
Making Memories with Arts & Crafts

Clever Names for A Craft Business

Crafty Abundance
Handmade Havens
Maker’s Marvels
Sewing Sensations
DIY Delights
Homegrown Happiness
Crafting Carnival
Fabrics of Fancy Boutique
Artisan’s Arcade
Crafty Extravaganza
Handcrafted Heavens Boutique
Uniquely You Marketplace
Perfectly Picked Pieces Shop
Local Artisans Market
The Creative Collective
Maker’s Marketplace
Festival of Funky Finds
Handmade Heaven Store
Knot Your Average Crafts
Just Sew Cute Boutique

Wood Crafting Business Names

The Woodworking Workshop
Crafted Creations Woodshop
Carpentry Cravings Boutique
From Trees to Treasures Shop
Woodworking Wonders
Homegrown Happiness Creations
Pottery Palace
Crafting Confetti
Wood U Believe It?
Woodworking Wonders
A Seamless Creation
Stick with it Boutique
Time to Weave
Piece by Piece Boutique
Just a Saw & Hammer Shop
Handmade Heaven Store
Saw It and Love It Boutique
Craftsman’s Corner Store
Carpentry Creations Emporium
Maker’s Marvels Woodshop

Soap Craft Business Name Ideas

Suds & Scents Boutique
Soapcraft Emporium
Bubble Bath Bliss
Marvelous Soap Making
All Natural Artisanal Soaps
Scent Sensations
Sweet Suds Shop
Simply Scrub A Dub Boutique
Suds & Soul
Soapy Solutions Emporium
Soap ‘n Such Shop
The Lathery Lounge
Bespoke Scrub Boutique
Simply Soaps
Scentsy Sensations
Suds ‘N Such
Marvelous Soap Making
Creative Creations Soaps
Bubbly Baths Boutique
Scent-sational Soaps Shop

Jewelry Craft Business Names

The Beaded Boutique
Jewelry Junction
Sparkle & Shine Boutique
Glitter Galore Shop
Adornment Artistry Emporium
The Bead Bar
Diamonds ‘R Us Boutique
Jewelry Jubilee
Glamour & Glitz Shop
Crystal Clear Creations
The Finest Finds
Creative Crafters Boutique
Jewels of Joy Shop
Beads and Beyond
Allure ‘N Adornments
Bead It Good Store
Sparkle and Shine Jewelry
The Jewel Box Boutique
Accessorize Me
Gemstone Galore
Jewels of Joyful Creations Store

Candle Craft Business Names

Enlightened Candle Shop
Glowing Creations Emporium
Bright Ideas Boutique
The Wax Works
Flicker & Flame Boutique
Illuminate Artistry
Twinkle ‘n Light
Enlightened Candle Shop
Melts & Memories Shop
Candle Crafters Boutique
Waxing Inspiration
Lighting Up Lives Store
Aromatherapy Artistry
Wicks and Wonders
Intoxicating Scents Boutique
The Candle Company
Flame of Inspiration
Illuminate Your Life Shop
Waxing Brilliant Store
Aromatic Candles Boutique

If these craft names didn’t spark any inspiration, be sure to check out the various craft business name generators to try more ideas!

H2 – FAQ

H3 – Should a craft logo include the company name?

In my opinion, a craft logo should include the company name. It helps to create a visual association with the business, as well as help customers recognize and remember your business. The company name should be displayed prominently on the logo, so that it stands out and is easily identifiable.

Additionally, by including the name of the business on the logo can help potential customers find your business more easily if they are searching for it online. A craft logo featuring a creative and memorable name helps to distinguish your brand from competitors, making it easier for customers to find you

H3 – How do you know if your craft business name is already taken?

Depending on the type of business and where you are registering it, there may be different regulations regarding the naming of a craft business. When your list has been narrowed down, check with your local and state government or online corporate registration websites, if you plan to register a corporation or LLC.

Additionally, it’s important to search for any existing trademarks related to the name to make sure that it is not already in use.

What Policies Do I Need For My Etsy Shop?

To have a successful Etsy shop, it’s important to be familiar with Etsy’s policies in addition to creating a few of your own.

While not required, having your own custom and easy-to-understand Etsy shop policies will reduce miscommunication between you and the buyer, resulting in better reviews, in addition to reducing refunds from dishonest Etsy customers.

Standard Etsy Store Policies

Every Etsy store owner is covered by some of Etsy’s site-wide fixed policies, too. These additional policies include things like estimated delivery dates, payment options, and fees, customs and import tax obligations, and instant digital download options. These policies are not editable or changeable for individual shops.

It’s worth noting that Etsy Payments are standard and can’t be changed. Payment methods can include credit or debit cards, Etsy Gift cards, PayPal, Google Pay, or Apple Pay.

Common Etsy Policies to Include

Etsy shop policies can and should be created by using the policy templates that are provided by Etsy. Many of these templates are super easy to fill out. For example, you can simply select a checkmark or x-mark next to “I accept returns” or “I accept exchanges.”

To change the policies on Etsy, shop owners will make their edits through Etsy’s “Shop Manager” on the “Settings” tab. This is found on the sidebar of the policy page.

Refund Policies

Perhaps the most important Etsy shop policies are the refund policies, specifically for items that are not going to be returned or exchanged. While this varies for every Etsy shop, a good refund policy will only offer refunds for items that have been damaged during shipping, which is out of control of the seller’s hands.

To protect the shop owner, buyers could be required to show photos of the damage done during shipping are required before issuing a refund.

Returns and Exchanges Policies

Another important Etsy shop policy is returns and exchanges.

First off, shops should state whether they accept returns or exchanges and the timeframe in which returns and exchanges are accepted. A good time frame you can use for this is a period of either 14, 21, or 30 days after an item has been received.

For example, a shopper that purchases from an Etsy storefront that doesn’t have a shop policy could demand a refund without a valid reason after a year or more. If this shop instead had a policy stating that refunds can only be given to customers who return an item within 14 days, they could then refuse to refund the shopper’s money.

Shops should also indicate what reasons exchanges and returns are accepted. For example, a damaged item could be an acceptable reason, while the customer changing their mind may not be.

Another piece of information to include in a return and exchange policy is whether or not the buyer is responsible for shipping costs to return or exchange an item to an Etsy shop.

Each Etsy shop can decide on its own shipping policies for returns and exchanges. Some Etsy shops make the buyer responsible, while in other instances, the seller may pay for return shipping. Most Etsy shops will put in their return policy that buyers will be responsible for paying return and exchange shipping charges.

Etsy shop owners are allowed to decline to accept returns of any kind. Sellers must have a “no returns” policy clearly stated in their shop policies.

Privacy Policies

The last policy type that Etsy will allow is a privacy policy. A privacy policy will outline how each Etsy shop will use and store the personal information of its customers.

If you would like to add a privacy policy to your Etsy shop, you will have to create this policy yourself, as a template is not provided by Etsy.

Should I Start An LLC For My Craft Business?

Pretty young creative female in apron sitting by workplace in front of laptop while making notes about her hobby

When you’re starting a small business, it’s important to choose the right business structure. One popular option you might consider is a Limited Liability Company (LLC). But is an LLC right for your craft business?

What is an LLC?

An LLC, or Limited Liability Company, is a separate legal entity that is created by state statute and offers its owners personal liability protection while providing them with the flexibility to choose how their company is taxed.

LLCs are relatively easy to set up and maintain, and they can be a good choice for small businesses and entrepreneurs who want the benefits of both a corporation with the ease of administration of a sole proprietorship or partnership.

Benefits of forming an LLC

There are a few things to keep in mind when deciding whether to form an LLC for your craft business.

First, an LLC can help protect your personal assets in the event that your business is sued. That’s because, with an LLC, your personal assets are not at risk if the business is liable for damages. If your craft business sells higher-risk handmade items such as children’s clothes, or candles, an LLC, along with product liability insurance needs to be considered.

Second, an LLC can give you flexibility when it comes to taxes. With an LLC, you can choose how you want to be taxed: as a sole proprietor, partnership, or corporation. This can be beneficial if you think the corporate tax rate will be higher than the individual tax rate.

Finally, an LLC can make it easier to raise capital by allowing you to sell ownership interests in your business.

Overall, there are many benefits of forming an LLC for a small business. However, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Also see: How to start a craft business

Downsides to forming an LLC

There are also a few downsides to consider before forming an LLC.

First, LLCs can be more expensive to set up and maintain than other business structures such as the sole proprietorship or general partnership. This is because you’ll need to file paperwork with the state to form the LLC and each year to maintain your LLC status.

Second, LLCs can also be more complex to operate than other business structures. This is because LLCs have more rules and regulations that they must follow.

Other Possible Business Entities for Craft Businesses

If you’re not sure whether an LLC is right for your craft business, there are a few other business structures to consider.

The sole proprietorship is the most common type of business structure and is a great choice for small businesses. This is because sole proprietorships are easy to set up and maintain, and they offer the owner complete control over the business. Set up is easy because there is no business entity to register, but if you plan to operate the business under a DBA (also referred to as a Doing Business As, Fictitious Business Name, Trade Name, or Assumed Business Name), you will probably have to register with the county where your business is located.

Also see: My list of creative names for a craft business

A general partnership is another option to consider. Partnerships are similar to sole proprietorships in that they offer the small business owners complete control over the business. However, with a partnership, there are two or more owners who share in the profits and losses of the business.

If you’re looking for personal liability protection but don’t want an LLC, a corporation might be a good choice. Corporations offer their owners limited liability protection, but they can be more complex to set up and maintain than other business structures.

Steps to forming an LLC

If you’ve decided that an LLC is the best choice for your craft business, there are a few steps you’ll need to take to get started. Every state is different, but here are the steps that you would generally take.

1. Choose a business name: When choosing a name for your LLC, you’ll want to make sure that it’s available in your state and that it meets your state’s requirements. Each state requires a unique LLC name so doing a business name search.

2. File Articles of Organization: This is the paperwork that you’ll need to file with your state to officially form your LLC.

3. Draft an Operating Agreement: This is a document that outlines the ownership and operating procedures of your LLC. It’s not required in all states, but it’s a good idea to have one anyway.

4. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN): This is a federal tax identification number that is assigned by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that you’ll need if you want to open a business bank account or hire employees. If the LLC will be only owned by one person and there will be no employees, the owner’s social security number is used instead.

5. Comply with state requirements: Once you’ve formed your LLC, you’ll need to comply with your state’s requirements for LLCs. This may include filing annual reports and paying annual fees.

6. Register your business: You may also need to register your LLC with the city or county in which you’re doing business. In some areas, a home occupation permit will be needed to legally operate a business from a personal residence.

7. Obtain licenses and permits: Depending on the type of craft business you’re operating, you may need to obtain certain licenses and permits from your state or local government.

Also see: What licenses do crafters need to sell at craft show?

Most commonly, a business license and sales tax permit (or seller’s permit) is all a craft business will need to register for, but be sure to check with requirements in your local area. Additionally, by registering for the sales tax permit, you will be able to start making purchases of your supplies that are used for resale without having to pay sales tax!

8. Open a business bank account: Once you’ve obtained your EIN, you can open a business bank account in the name of your LLC. This will help you keep your personal and business finances separate.

9. Start crafting! Once you’ve taken care of all the legalities, you can start crafting and selling to your heart’s content.

The Bottom Line

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of whether you should form an LLC for your craft business. The best choice for you will depend on a number of factors, including the size and scope of your business, your personal liability protection needs, and your tax situation.

If you’re still not sure which business structure is right for you, it’s a good idea to speak with an accountant or attorney who can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option.

What Licenses Do Crafters Need to Sell at Craft Shows?

When operating a business selling handcrafted items at craft fairs, flea markets, farmers market, and festivals there are some licenses and other requirements to be aware of.

Let’s look at a few of these!

Business License

There isn’t a business license specifically for crafting business or attending craft shows, however, some areas require a general business license in order to operate.

Licensing requirements vary by state and in some, a business license will be needed in order to operate, while in some, only the local municipalities require one. And this goes for home-based businesses as well, so it’s important to research the basic requirements to start a business in your area.

When you first get started, nobody is likely going to notice your business, but as you grow, the business is more visible, making you a bigger target.

Business Entity

Owning a business means needing to select a business entity (sometimes referred to as a business structure). Some entities are simply the individual (sole proprietorship). However, if a sole proprietorship (and general partnership) business is sued, the owner’s personal assets are at risk. While that isn’t a likely scenario for most businesses selling crafts, it is worth researching to make sure the correct entity is selected. Here is a brief summary of the different types of entities:

Sole Proprietorship

A sole proprietorship is a business entity for either an individual or a married couple who pursue entrepreneurship. This entity has benefits such as:

The least expensive business entity to form
No need for a FEIN (Federal Employer Identification Number) unless the sole proprietorship has employees

Sole proprietorships are one of the most chosen entities of the four, with an estimation of 73% of American businesses being sole proprietorships.

There is potentially more risk with sole proprietorship because, unlike a corporation, the owner and business are considered the same entity.

General Partnerships

A general partnership is when a group of two or more people go into business together. This entity is similar to a sole proprietorship in that there isn’t a formal filing requirement in most states. The income that is generated from a general partnership is subject to self-employment tax and does not pay tax through business income but instead personal losses of the group making up the general partnership.

Corporations

Corporations, as a business entity, are separate from the individual. Unlike previous business structures like sole proprietorships and general partnerships, operating your business as a corporation protects your personal finances if the company were to be sued.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An LLC or Limited Liability Company is a business entity that sits in between a corporation and a sole proprietorship in the way that an LLC provides the security of personal assets if anything were to happen to the company.

See: Should I form an LLC for my craft business?

Business Name

While most craft businesses will operate as a sole proprietorship, if they are operating under a business name that is different from the owner’s full first and last name, they may need to register to use their business name. In most states, a DBA sometimes referred to as a Doing Business As, Fictitious Name, or Assumed Name will need to be registered for in order to legally operate under that name.

Sales Tax Permit

Craft businesses selling their products at craft fairs and festivals will likely need to register for a sales tax permit (sometimes referred to as a seller’s permit sales and use tax permit, vendors license, or sales tax license) in order to collect sales tax. In some states, if a business is temporarily selling at events in different states they can get a one-time special event or temporary sales tax permit.

It’s important to note that the sales tax rate will vary on the location where the retail location is set up at.

The show organizers of craft shows are liable to the state for tax on sales made by their vendors, so they will be checking to make sure everyone is registered.

Sales tax requirements vary by state, so be sure to do your research before selling your crafts.

How Much Money Can You Make with a Craft Business?

So, you’ve decided to give up the rat race and start working from home running a craft business. The idea of working for yourself, creating your own hours, and having a much more flexible lifestyle, is appealing to many people. But have you considered how much money you will need to make for this new career choice or side hustle to really work for you?

A lot of people starting new businesses assume that it’s easy to make money and make ends meet. But in order to pay your bills, buy food, and afford any of life’s little luxuries, you will need to make a reasonable salary from your business. How much you need to make will depend on a lot of things, such as the cost of your rent and whether or not you have any dependents living under your roof.

Also see – How to start a craft business

Making money selling crafts is not an easy job. It often requires long hours that you would never have to work if you had a 9-5 office job. Many new craft business owners don’t even last a year before they decide that they can’t make a living this way.

So, how much money can you make with a craft business?

The answer to this question is not simple. But if I could quantify it, I would say that you get out of your business what you put in. In other words, if you are willing to work hard, dedicate yourself to long hours, and give up other time-consuming tasks and hobbies that may interfere, you can make enough to live on. If you are wanting to make some extra money in your spare time, a craft business can help with that as well.

It may not be a lot. In fact, it will probably be less than what you would make at most other jobs, especially for the first year or two. I’m not going to lie to you–in my first year of business, I only made around $100. But I wasn’t dedicating myself to the task and putting in the work that I could have. It can be done.

Here’s how to make enough money to live off your craft business.

1. Plan ahead

Know what you’re planning to do and how you’re going to do it. Decide how much you want to make in a year, then break that down to how much you need to make a month, week, or even day if that’s easier for you to concentrate on.

You will also need to work out how much you want to make per hour to help you determine prices for your handmade items. Don’t forget to take into account things like the cost of materials and time spent buying materials too.

Once you have priced items, you can figure out how many things you will need to sell in a day in order to make the monthly salary you require for your living expenses and bills. Knowing how many items you need to sell in a day can also help you to plan your productivity levels, because you will also need to make a certain number of items a day in order to keep your shop, Web site, or craft table well-stocked.

2. Make a schedule

One of the hardest things about working for yourself is staying motivated. Being your own boss is not always easy. Getting up early in the morning can seem unnecessary since you’re already at your place of work. Getting dressed can seem pointless too. Why make an effort when no one is going to see you?

First off you need a schedule. Yes, a schedule, as in a calendar. If you don’t plan out your workday, or at the very least plan a rough schedule for the week, you will find it difficult to get anything done. You, and only you, are responsible for every single aspect of this craft business and if you seriously want to make enough money to live on, you will absolutely need to whip yourself into shape.

One way to make a schedule is to choose certain days for certain tasks. For instance, you could reserve Monday to Thursday for creating new stock, Friday for listing that stock online, Saturday for going to the post office, and Sunday for marketing your business. This is just one example of how you can schedule your week. There are infinite options, of course, and you should choose whatever works best for you.

3. Eliminate distractions

Even if you plan to just operate online with your own website, Facebook page, or an Etsy shop, it’s important to stay focused. When friends and family learn you are working from home, they will stop by and interrupt you or ask you to do things for them. If you don’t have a long-term plan in place on how to deal with these interruptions, it’s going to be harder on you. You’ll also want a quiet place to work where you won’t easily be distracted or often interrupted. You don’t have to have an office but it helps if you can dedicate a specific area of your home to work.

Work in an area where you won’t be distracted by things like the TV, the phone, music, or even computer games or social media. If you use social media, E-mail, and Web sites for your business, try to dedicate a specific day, or time of day, to computer use so that you aren’t constantly switching back and forth between crafting and browsing the Internet.

Make sure you tell those you live with what your schedule is and that you expect that to be respected, as it would be with any other job. If you make this a priority from the beginning, family members and friends will be less likely to bother you during work hours.

4. Be professional

Professionalism and good customer service are vital to the success of your craft business. You need to present a professional image to your potential customers at all times. This means you need to be professional in your communication, your photography, your product descriptions, business cards, and your finances.

Good communication with your customers is key. Not only when you are selling at events like craft fairs, flea markets, farmers’ markets, but also with online stores or even your social media replies on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest as well. How you communicate with them can make the difference between a one-time purchaser and a regular, repeat customer. Make sure that you respond to questions in a timely manner. Always be polite and helpful. Customers will come back if they feel like they’ve been treated well and with individual care.

Put these tactics into practice when running your craft business and you will more than likely be able to make enough money to live on. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a few months, or even a year, to work up to a sales level that brings in enough. Keep putting the time and effort in and eventually, you have a successful business and make consistent money.

How To Market a Craft Business

One of the most important features of any successful craft business is a great marketing plan. How you choose to market can make or break your business. But how do you go about marketing your business? And what if you can’t afford to advertise?

When I first began my craft business, I knew very little about how to market my products. Although in the past I studied creative writing, corresponded for a newspaper, and even worked in the marketing department of a publishing house, I knew very little about advertising. I also had no money to invest in advertising my business, so I knew that all of my advertising was going to have to be done through my own persistent hard work. And I was going to have to teach myself almost everything.

Here are some things I have learned over the years on how you can start successfully marking a craft business. [keyword says ‘marking’ instead of marketing’]

1. Take advantage of social media.
Social media networks like Facebook, Twitter, Tumbler and Pinterest are a great way of marketing your craft business for free. It takes time to build up a network of people on these Web sites, but you can easily get started by adding everyone you know in real life. Ask your friends to share your photos or like your business page. The more you share on these social sites, the more traffic you will get to your page or store.

Keep in mind that social media is always changing, and while one platform may be popular right now, another may become more popular in time. For instance, when I first started marketing my craft business, Facebook was the be-all and end-all in social media marketing. However, the trend has now turned more toward Twitter and Pinterest. Keep your eyes open for changes, and instead of shying away from them, try to embrace them so that you can keep up with the trends.

You can also vary the kind of material you post based on the networks you use. For instance, Pinterest is best for images, such as photos of your latest line of products, while Twitter is great for short bursts of texts, such as a discount offer on one of your items.

2. Create a blog for your business.
A blog is another great way to market your craft business. Again, it’s free, and it’s a fun way to interact with your potential customers. When you sell online you can often use Google analytics to find out where your traffic is coming from. I’ve had a lot of traffic come to my Etsy shop straight from my blog, or from another crafting blog that has featured some of my work.

You can use your blog to talk about the process of your work, share photos of your products, and even host contests. Giving away free products is a great way to drive traffic to your blog.

To get your work featured on another blog, contact fellow craft sellers on social media networks, your preferred selling Web site, or simply ask a friend. Many bloggers are happy to do a feature for free, or in exchange for being featured on your blog. Some will also do product reviews if you offer them a freebie.

3. Network at local fairs and events.
Craft fairs and other local events are a great place to network with other crafters as well as potential customers. Hand out business cards or fliers with your business information on them so that everyone you meet can connect with you on Facebook or your Web site. Include any other relevant information too, such as if you take custom orders.

Make sure that you have plenty of business cards or fliers printed in advance. I have always felt that professionally done business cards are best, but there is no reason why you can’t make your own as long as they look good and do the job. Have a stack of cards or fliers on your craft table and be sure to slip one into every shopping bag too.

When you present your wares in a physical location to a live customer base, you can also talk to people to get feedback about your work. It’s a wonderful way to meet more people who are interested in the handmade business. Even if I don’t sell anything at one particular fair, I generally find that the networking I get done makes the experience worth it.

If you plan to sell, be sure to make sure your business is licensed to sell at craft shows.

4. Ask as many questions as you can.
The very best way to learn as much as you can about marketing your craft business is to ask questions. Every time you meet a new crafter or you find a new craft business that you admire, ask how they market their work. Some people may not wish to share the details with you, but many are happy to help. Be polite and explain that you’re new to the business and would like to try different advertising ideas.

Almost everything I learned about social media networking was learned from other crafters. I did gain a lot of insight by reading articles online and experimenting with my own ideas, but I would have to say that my most invaluable tips came from other successful craft business owners. You could fairly say that we’re all in this together.

5. Always put your best foot forward.
Finally, when marketing your craft business, always remember to present your very best work. Choose high quality photos, proofread your text and be professional at all times.
By showing your professionalism through your marketing plan, you will send a clear message to potential customers that you know what you’re doing and that you’re one of the best in the business.

I hope that these tips from my own personal experience will help you as you create a marketing plan for your craft business.

Where To Sell Your Craft Products

You’ve chosen a name for your business. You’ve designed some wonderful products. Maybe you’ve even built a Facebook page and a Pinterest account especially for marketing your craft business. But how do you know where to sell your products?

There’s much debate amongst craft business owners about where to sell your crafts. Some swear by selling online and only online. Others insist that selling in person works better for them. And even if you already know which method you prefer, there are many different specific options for selling online or in person, so how do you decide amongst those?

Here are some pros and cons of a few online and physical locations for selling your craft products. I hope that this will help you to decide the best place for selling your handmade wares.

1. Online Sales Venues

Online sales venues offer a lot of conveniences, and often fewer costs, that you wouldn’t get selling in a physical location. For instance, selling online doesn’t require paying rent for a shop space or paying a percent of consignment sales. But there can be some negative sides to online selling too, such as Paypal fees.

Etsy

Etsy is a very popular online selling venue with more than 800,000 registered users. The site ranked second in the 2014 Sellers Choice Top Online Marketplaces and also ranked second in overall profitability in the same study, Ebay being the only site ranking higher in profitability.

Advantages of Etsy:

• Low listing fees of $0.20 per item for four months.
• A community of fellow sellers who share tips and ideas.
• User friendly interfacing for buyers and sellers.
• A great reputation for the site worldwide.

Disadvantages of Etsy:

• Slow communication from help desk due to so many users.
• Percentage of sales taken by Etsy.
• More competition with products similar to yours.
• Links and content from other shops is always visible to buyers.

ArtFire

ArtFire is another popular online marketplace for handmade products. While it’s not as popular, it does have some advantages over Etsy.

Advantages of ArtFire:

• Not as much competition as larger handmade sites like Etsy.
• Buyers can post ‘wanted ads’, similar to Etsy’s former ‘Alchemy’ requests, which no longer exists.
• No listing fees for individual products.
• Lots of customization features for your shop.

Disadvantages of ArtFire:

• Less well known site which lacks the reputation of bigger sites like Etsy.
• Monthly fee of $12.95, regardless of if you sell anything in that time.
• Less media attention to the site as a whole.
• Less traffic to individual shops than bigger sites like Etsy.

DaWanda

DaWanda is a German based online marketplace that allows sellers worldwide to create shops and sell their handmade merchandise. It’s another venue that’s gaining popularity fast but still doesn’t rank as high as Etsy when it comes to customer traffic to the site.

Advantages of DaWanda

• No fees taken on postage costs.
• No listing fees for individual items at present (though this could change.)
• Free to create an account and a shop.
• Items can be listed in more than one category at a time.

Disadvantages of DaWanda

• Not as well known as Etsy.
• 5% commission on sales (increasing to 10% in July 2014.)
• Limitations on how much you can change the prices of your listed items.
• Buyers have 7 days to pay for an item that they purchase.

Other online handmade marketplaces you may want to look into include: Folksy, Not on the High Street, Bonanza, Zibbet and iCraft.

Alternatively, many crafters also sell a lot of products using social media and blogging platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Tumbler, Blogger, and WordPress, to name a few of the most popular options. Some people have even found success in selling handmade products on Ebay.

2. Physical selling venues.

Physical selling venues, such as craft fairs, offer some great advantages over online marketplace selling. There are, of course disadvantages too. Here are some pros and cons of various physical selling venues for your handmade products.

Craft Fairs

Craft fairs are one of the most popular physical selling venues for handmade products. But are they actually profitable? Here are some advantages and disadvantages of selling at craft fairs.

What Licenses do Crafters Need to Sell at Craft Shows?

Advantages of Craft Fairs:

• Customers can see your products in person and handle them. They can try things on.
• You can hand out business cards to everyone you meet, even if they don’t buy.
• You can change your prices based on the reactions you get from people looking at your products.
• You can network with crafters, other business owners and potential customers.

Disadvantages of Craft Fairs:

• You will pay a table fee, often ranging anywhere from $20 to $200, depending on the location and venue.
• You may have competition with other tables selling similar products in close proximity.
• You have to present a friendly and professional front at all times–there’s no computer screen to hide behind.
• You have little control over how much marketing gets done for the event.

Local Craft and Gift Shops

Another great option for selling at a physical location is to get your handmade goods into local craft and gift shops. Many local shops are happy to add handmade goods to their stock if you just ask them for more information about the process.

Advantages of Local Shops

• You have the benefit of someone else doing the selling and marketing for you.
• Your goods appear for sale next to other quality products.
• You can network when you leave business cards with your products.
• You can learn more about selling and marketing from the shop owner.

Disadvantages of Local Shops

• You will pay a percentage of the sale to the shop owner– often 40 to 50% of what you charge.
• Small shops don’t always get a lot of regular footfall.
• Items can sometimes become damaged over time from too much handling by customers.
• Items may sometimes get stolen through no fault of your own. You have to trust someone else to guard your goods.

Besides local shops, you can also try marketing your goods to gift and craft shops located outside of your town, state or even the country.

Other physical selling venues you many want to consider for your crafts include: school fairs, church bazaars, bake sales, festivals and concerts, and any other event where you can rent a table or stall.

What You Need to Know to Start a Craft Business

Crafting has probably never been a more popular hobby than it is today. And running your own crafting business is often the next natural step for those who love to make things. After all, why shouldn’t you make a living doing what you love?

Almost anyone can run their own craft business. But there are some things that you should know before you start so that you can be prepared to run an organized, profitable company. I certainly wish that I had spent a bit more time planning before starting my craft business.

So, what do you need to know to start a craft business? Here are some basic things you should know before you start.

1. Doing your books and filing self employed tax returns.

One of the most important things to know about starting a craft business bookkeeping and how to file self employment tax returns. Many people find taxes overwhelming, even without the added complication of being self employed. It pays to research the process well ahead of time so that you’ll be prepared to deal with the paperwork efficiently and in a timely manner.

First, you will need to find the relevant tax documents for your area of trade. You can find this information on the IRS Web site, or the relevant tax Web site for your country if you do not live in the USA. If you can’t figure out what forms you need, or how to fill them out, you can contact the IRS, use a tax filing computer program, or hire an accountant to assist you. BasicAccountingHelp.com has free spreadsheets and resources to better understand the accounting basics.

The main thing to remember about tax returns is that you can’t avoid them. You have to do them, so you may as well learn everything you can about how to do them correctly to save you trouble later.

2. Managing your time.

When you become self employed, regardless of what kind of business you start, you will soon realize that you suddenly have less time for leisure and spending time with your family. You will have to dedicate long hours to your work, which can alienate you from your spouse, put a damper on your social life, etc.

To keep yourself from becoming a workaholic hermit, you’ll need to learn to manage your time more efficiently. Try to plan out how much time you will spend on work in a day, and set aside at least one day a week to be your day off. You won’t always be able to stick to your schedule rigorously but if you at least have a schedule, you will be less likely to waste time, freeing up a few hours for family time during the day or evening.

Talk to your family, or whoever you live with, about your schedule so that they will know when to expect you to be busy with work and when you are free to hang out with them. Open communication is the key to making sure everyone understands how your business schedule works now that you plan to work from home on a permanent basis.

3. Living on a strict budget.

While you may dream of making a lot of money from your craft business, you should be aware when starting one up that it may take years to build up your income to a comfortable level.

You will more than likely have to live on a strict budget for at least the first year. This will probably also affect everyone in your household, unless your spouse or someone else in the house earns a full time wage at the same time.

You will need to talk to those you live with about how your income will be limited for some time. They may not understand why you are choosing to work for yourself when you won’t make as much money but they still need to be informed. Hopefully, in time, they will understand and you can prove to them that your income will increase as you invest time and effort into your business.

If you need some money to get started but not sure of the options, check out this site on small business funding.

4. Handling the disapproval of others.

Speaking of people not understanding, many times small business owners find that family members and friends vocally disapprove of their self employment choice. Those who don’t understand will often make fun of what you do, say you can’t hold down another job, or even ask you why don’t get a “real job.” You will have to develop a thick skin.

Develop confidence in why you do what you do. If it will help, create a standard response you will give when people question your work choices. This way you won’t ever have to be at a loss for words and you won’t be left defenseless when others disapprove.

You should also enlist the help of those friends and family who do support you. They can say positive things to support you and your business when others are don’t seem to approve or understand what you’re doing.

5. Learn to experiment with different methods.

Many who start a new business will stick with the usual methods for everything. For instance, many people always ship orders via the USPS when they could use UPS, Hermes or another private courier.
Learning to think outside the box when it comes to your business can really help you to stand out from the crowd.
Try different ways of making products, marketing your business and selling your wares. Any time you can learn something new, you are adding another tool to your business tool box. The Businesses that are open to changing and evolving with the changing times and trends are often the ones that succeed.

These are just a few of the things you should think through as you are starting your craft business. Of course there are other things to consider too.

Do further research to find out what other craft sellers are doing. Consider taking a business class or reading some books on the topic of self employment. No harm is ever done by spending time in planning. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.