Showing posts with label craft fair. Show all posts
Showing posts with label craft fair. Show all posts
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Why We Will be Shopping Independent this Christmas
We do love a craft fair as I am sure you will know by now. But what we really love about them is discovering the people behind the brands who are always so lovely and the individual nature of the work. The best part is that you know all of the money you spend goes towards that designer/maker making more and learning more and experimenting more. Basically your paying for them to grow, it's not all about factories, profits and margins.
You may have seen the 'Just a Card' campaign, which aims to improve the fortunes of independent businesses and makers, as, if everyone bought just a card, then it could make a real difference to those people who make them. Cards are so easy to buy and the easy option at a craft fair, so why not aim to start buying handmade rather than production line cards, it could be your 2016 resolution if you don't want to start this Christmas of course!
Bust Craftacular was an altogether more colourful set of new (to us) finds, as you can see. These badge rosettes from dAKOTArAEdUST were super fun and so bright, then the cute face mitts (do you remember them from being a child!) from Terri Leahy and lastly were these cool patterned trays from Jonna Saarinen. We picked up some awesome gift ideas from both fairs for Christmas and beyond.
Another thing we are really enjoying about modern craft fairs at the moment is that they are introducing more workshops as well as stalls into the experience. We took part in a workshop by the lovely Helen Robinson at Bust Craftacular to make Macramé plant holders! I feel a new craft addiction coming on for both of us, watch out for more of this. Going back to the 70's is a big trend at the moment and so Macramé was always going to make a comeback!Another reason we love independent makers, is that they inspire us to try new things, learn more ourselves and have even more beautiful things in our lives! We just want all the pretty around us all the time!
Are you going to shop independent this Christmas? Or make your own, have you been inspired to try your hand at something yourself? Do check out our tutorials in the 'Make it' tab above to give you some inspiration. Also check out Sammy's post last week and this Friday for a few more handmade gift ideas.
H, xxx
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Makers Month: Claireabellemakes top 10 tips for selling at craft markets
Craft fairs and markets are our favourite way to connect and shop with designer/makers. We get to have a chat with the super talented folk that create the handmade things we love. But lets face it they can be daunting for sellers who spend a lot of time creating alone. We asked our lovely friend Claire, designer and blogger at Claireabellemakes, to share her top ten tips for getting organised and selling at craft markets to make the whole thing a little easier to navigate.
have sold there before to ask how they found it. The best markets I have done have been those that were recommended to me by others. Ask the organiser about footfall and what kind of marketing they will be doing to promote the event.
2. Do a mock set up – Each fair will have a different sized booth or table, so be sure to measure out the space provided to see how much stock you might be able to display. I like to tape out the table size in my studio then work out how I can arrange stock accordingly. Take a photo. Then, when you arrive at the fair, you will have a reference picture and it will be quick to set up!
3. Ask for help – Personally I find fairs to be one of the most exhausting aspects of my business and they can often be unpredictable. I did one market which was in a gazebo outside during December. I had anticipated it would be cold, but I didn't realise how cold I would get after 8 hours of standing behind a stall. Ask friends to bring you hot drinks and extra socks when needed! As I also have health issues, I often ask a friend to help with my stalls, especially if they require travel to the venue. Having someone there who can relieve you for a rest period or loo break is invaluable. You could offer to pay them a small fee or even make them something custom as a thank you. I will always pay my helper’s travel and give them lunch and then we decide between us how they would like to be repaid for their time.
4. Take a ‘useful box’ – I like to bring along a box of useful items that I could need for any fair. This box includes pins, string, tape, scissors, chalk, notepad, pens, pegs. It is invaluable to have these items on hand and although you may not need them for every market, you will make friends with people who are in desperate need of string or tape as they wont forget you! I also make sure to bring a stamp with my web address on in case any business cards run out. Sometimes you can never tell how busy a market will be!
5. Take water and snacks – Some markets can be long and with travel, set up and set down, you may work long periods without a proper break. Be prepared and take plenty of water with you, as well as snacks. You will be so pleased to find an apple in your bag once you hit the train home and your fair fatigue is setting in.
6. Keep cash safe – I used to take a cash tin to markets, but felt very uneasy about leaving it when visiting the ladies even though it had a little key. In comes the Bum Bag, or as the Americans call it, the Fanny Pack. I had one in the 80s and it rocked my world, so I made sure the one I use for markets is just as amazing. Cue this amazing glitter bum bag from Beksies Boutique. It helps to keep all cash on me as I then know where it is at all times.
7. Accept cards – As well as taking cash, I always make sure to accept card payments at any markets. Customers are likely to spend more if there is an option to use a card. Portable card machines such as this one from Payleven, are really easy to use and connect to smart phones via Bluetooth. There are even options to send receipts to customers and having a machine will provide your business with credibility.
8. Offer deals - I want my market customers to feel as though it is worth visiting my stall, so will often offer exclusive deals for that day. For example, 3 cards for £6 instead of £2.50 each. Share these offers on social media prior to the event and it may make people want to visit you just for the deals!
9. Inventory – Prior to each market, make a list of all stock you wish to take along and print this out for your records. Each time an item is sold, tick it off on the corresponding inventory list. At the end of the day, you can check stock against items sold and ensure that each sale is accounted for. It takes a bit of preparation, but saves tons of time when cashing up at the end of the day and even when you are filing your accounts.
10. Network – Each market opportunity is a fantastic way to network across the community. Get to know your stall neighbours and follow them on social media after the event. Keeping in touch with other vendors could lead to collaborations and opportunities.
Thanks for having me today guys! I've really enjoyed sharing my tips on preparing for craft markets and I hope your readers will find them useful. Why not take a look at my visit to one of my favourite markets ever, Renegade in London or a video of my time as a vendor at BUST Craftacular.
Thanks for sharing your tips Claire.
Sammy, H and Claire xxx
Love it: Craftacular Haul
Love it: Renegade Haul
Once again there was so much to look at and instead of our usual post about the whole event, as you can read all about them in previous posts - we thought we would show you what we bought, much more fun!
Sammy's Stash; Bag and Succulent from Oh No Rachio, Candle from East Wick, Bag, Pencil cards, Fabric tag and note books from Oh Squirrel, midi ring from Star and Metal, 'We're all mad here' ring from The Silver Shed, cards from Emma Margaret Illustrations, the Paper Hare and Hello Harriet, Succulent from Geo-fleur, Camera print Pouch from Duck and Duffel, Window necklace from A Weathered Penny, Constellation bracelet from Fleur Caroline, Necklace made in the I am Acrylic workshop.
Phew! That was a lot of shopping, we did well. All new goodies for us! It was such a lovely day aswell so a pop to Rosa's for some Thai food (a favourite) and what a great post birthday day out for me too! yey. We really did have a truly magical day - Thanks Emma Margaret Illustrations for the very apt business card!
H
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#HandmadeChristmas Gift Guide
Sammy xxx
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Book Review: Craft, Show & Sell
One. It is Beautiful! I know I have said that already but it is probably the prettiest (useful) book I have ever owned. It is full of colourful photography of gorgeous crafty goodness. It has been on my desk for weeks and I cannot stop picking it up and looking at it, like, everyday.
Have you taken a look at this book? Do you already own it? I would love to hear what you think of it, leave a comment below or talk to us on Twitter @livelovemake
Sammy xxx
Disclaimer: ( for our lovely readers) I hate writing these because I feel that you already know, But as a little reminder. Our opinions are not for sale. We only write honest reviews. If we are sent products to review it does not guarantee a positive review or for that fact a review at all. We will always tell you if a review is sponsored, which means that the product has been loaned to us or given to us. This review is not sponsored. I bought this book of my own free will, not with the intention of reviewing it. Just wanted to share some joy.
Who's Who: Designosaur
Who are you?
We are Jacques and Karli the CEO's, founders, designers and
makers of designosaur.
What do you do?
We make fun, bright, brash, sometimes dinosaur inspired
laser cut jewellery and screen printed tights. We hope that we are creating
jewellery that stands out from the crowd and is exciting to wear. Everything we
design, is hand drawn, laser cut and assembled by us.
How did you start?
Jacques and I both have Product Design degrees, in fact
that's how we met. In the beginning Jacques started making children's mirrors
for the laser cutters he was working at. There was one shiny Brachiosaurus
which took my fancy, I held up to myself and suggested that it would look great
as a GIANT necklace. I was so excited about it that Jacques made it into the very
first designosaur necklace for me! I'm not really sure what happened between
then and now, we didn't really plan to have a handmade business but it's great
to be able to design and create everyday! We have so many ideas with very little
time!
We have achieved so much over the last (nearly) two years.
We have done craft fairs including Renegade London, a trade fair, we now have
around 30 stockists and things just keep getting bigger and better! We would
love to do one of the American Renegade Craft Fairs, have a Pop Up shop and
continue to take over the world ;)
Don't doubt yourself so much. I think this one still applies
and although it is good to look at your work with a critical eye. I don't think
we would have started our business if other people hadn't seen, and liked our
designs right at the beginning.
We love these guys work, it's just nice to see fun and interesting jewellery out there. One thing that H find's difficult is that she can't wear anything with nickel, so the plastic and wooden rings are great and the necklace chains can easily be replaced! What do you guys think of designosaur? Let us know in the comments below.
H & Sammy
Who's Who: Laurie King
This month we have Laurie King over for a chat. H first saw him over at The Lightbox Craft Fair and as he also learnt Screenprinting at the Ochre Print Studio (Local to Woking), it would have been rude not to show you what his work is all about.
Who are you?
I am Laurie King, thank you for asking me to be a part of
your blog.
What do you do?
I draw a lot. I ride a bike. I run in the woods. I work as a
Graphic Designer. I screen print for fun.
How did you start?
I very rarely write much down. Normally it’s illustrated,
sometimes its photographed. Seeing ideas visually makes confusing stuff simple.
My degree is in Graphic design (my proper job) and interest
in the arts, creativity and good old hand drawn illustrations.
I was very lucky to have won a competition entitled "Surrey in 2012". Surrey
being home to Boxhill and the highlight of the Olympic Games and myself being a
keen cyclist it was not to be missed. The short edition of 40 was hand printed
by Julie and Annee at Ochre Print Studio in Guildford ,
and was shown at The Royal Albert Hall and sold out.
Now I had to learn how to hand screen print myself, I joined
one of Ochre's workshops and made loads and loads of mistakes, mess-ups and the
odd triumph. I still make plenty of mistakes but have learnt how to solve (most
of them). Personally I believe it is important to make things with my hands,
there are plenty of editioners out there but it’s not quite the same, if I put
my name on the bottom I need to have done it, the proper way!
2013 was exciting. I had the opportunity to present Sir
Bradley Wiggins with my print "Yellow Jersey". Seemed only
appropriate the man in the picture should have one of himself.
I also launched a cycling accessory. The water bottle.
What's Next?
I was contacted by The Lightbox and asked to exhibit this year. 8 pieces being hung in their cafe gallery - Taste of Art. A real
honour and nice to share some space with some great artists.
Laurie has a Screenprinting workshop coming up in June at Gorgeous Gerties in Dorking, you can go to his website to find out more information.
Laurie has a Screenprinting workshop coming up in June at Gorgeous Gerties in Dorking, you can go to his website to find out more information.
Looking beyond that my goal would be to build laurieking.co
portfolio.
Big goal: I've not got a clue.
What advice would you
give yourself if you could go back to the beginning?
Be more confident. Don't worry what others think.
One of the great things about Laurie's work is that it appeals to both men and women, something which you rarely find at craft fairs. There is alot out there for women, but not so much for men. Laurie's work would make a great gift for the bike mad person in your life.
You can also find him at the below places.
Twitter: www.twitter.com/laurie_king
Screen Print: www.laurieking.co
Graphic Design: www.openhousecreative.co.uk
It's all fuelling H's printing obsession.
H & Sammy
Please Note: All pictures are owned by the interviewee and so should not be copied without permission.
H & Sammy
Please Note: All pictures are owned by the interviewee and so should not be copied without permission.
Live it: The Lightbox Art & Craft Fair
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| The Lightbox Christmas Tree, donated by Squire's Garden Centres. |
Every year my work - The Lightbox, has an Art and Craft fair to showcase the designer/makers in the surrounding areas. The shop already showcases some local artists work, but the Art and craft fair gives a great excuse to show more and so I thought it was only fair to go have a look see.
The Art & Craft fair takes over the corridors, the meeting space and my usual work room - the education studio, so there was plenty of space for lots of different designer/makers.
The Art & Craft fair takes over the corridors, the meeting space and my usual work room - the education studio, so there was plenty of space for lots of different designer/makers.
These beautiful silver jewellery pieces were made by Jen Smith from Silver Labyrinth and are all bespoke and so no two pieces are the same.
Julie Barham from Talking Pots had these lovely seed pods and pots. The seed pods have chimes in them and you could also buy a vase in the same shape.
I found this little stall of personlise your own tote bags or T-shirts by Vicky at Mrs Cards. You get a chalk pen and the bag/t-shirt and you can write a shopping list or phrase on them, then wash it away.
One of The Lightbox Volunteers and a designer/Maker herself, Karen from Tilly's Magic Lantern mixes vintage with new for her Jewellery. You can find her work in The Lightbox shop all year around, but it was lovely to see her beautiful display stands with all the pretty things.
I got to meet the lovely girls from biroRobot, who were there with their prints and if you follow me on Instagram you may have noticed that I bought a cheeky little print! oops.
These lovely festive glass sculptures were by Joanna Lloyd Glass. This Art and Craft fair was starting to get me in the festive spirit - watch out!
Sew Make Me had a lovely vintage style stall with their kits and accessories they sell. Loved the snowman fabric that the sack was made out of.
Jane Cameron sells fused glass and hand painted silk. I loved the cat coasters, but as I don't have a house of my own or really like pink, I left them for someone else to pick up.
Laurie King had some lovely bicycle inspired prints for sale, alongside some printed water bottles for those on the road moments.
As a Silver jewellery obsessive, I loved Caroline Thomson's work. Her stall was set up so well with the stones and driftwood letting the silver jewellery shine, and it definitely shined!
So, all in all it was a day of very pretty things. There was also mulled wine and mince pies on offer! Have you been to any Craft fairs yet? or sold at any this year? Let us know in the comments below.
H
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