Comment from Tammy
Time: March 14, 2010, 10:52 am

Which social-media conduits reach which audiences best? Are their certain crafts that appeal (don’t appeal) to audiences that read/use social media?

Comment from Kari Hudson
Time: March 14, 2010, 12:39 pm

What constitutes a good handemade product to sell?

Comment from Catherine
Time: March 14, 2010, 1:19 pm

I think I would have benefitted from having a clearer idea of my end goals when I started my business.

Comment from machen und tun
Time: March 14, 2010, 1:53 pm

right at the beginning i tended to calculate the postal fees for products with an unusual size than my usual pouches too low: always make sure not to go wrong there.. i know it sounds pathetic, but i learned this kind of the hard way :-)
claudia

Comment from Sierra Pelona Crochet
Time: March 14, 2010, 3:27 pm

I wish I had known how to do my own product photography, so I wouldn’t have to rely on a photographer to have images of my items to post on the web.

Comment from Sheri D. Maple
Time: March 14, 2010, 3:33 pm

I purchased Handmade Marketplace a few weeks and it has great information. In the process of starting a business with what the product line will be, pricing, and name and logo. One thing I have learned is the importance of of selling yourself and remember that this is a business, and getting your name out there through traditional and online marketing.

Comment from Julie Tiedens
Time: March 14, 2010, 3:47 pm

This is silly, but I wish I had known about the SCAN forms available when using PayPal’s multiorder shipping. If anyone isn’t familiar with it, if you print off labels using multiorder, you can also choose to print this form. When you do, your mailcarrier or postal person will scan this form so that when your customers look up their delivery confirmation numbers, they can at least see that their package was accepted at the post office. It’s saved me lots of frustration, I’m sure :)

Comment from Nordie
Time: March 14, 2010, 6:15 pm

My older sister (who is an artist) is just branching out to promote herself as a “maker and seller of hand made art items” (including paintings, mosaics etc).

People around her are all very supportive, have loads of ideas etc – in fact I think they have too many and she is being pulled in too many directions, and doesnt necessarily have a clear way foward.

Therefore my question(s) really are: What Must be done, and where do you need to start to then go forward and build/

Comment from Denise L. Reed
Time: March 14, 2010, 8:29 pm

Hello,
I seen you on PBS knitting daily, which led me to listening to your pod cast 113, Handmade Marketplace. REALLY ENJOYED IT.
I have been stuck, keep struggling with the dwindling tourist season here in Alaska or get over my fear of the WWW.
so one small step at a time. make a vision board, list and just DO IT. Thanks Denise

Comment from joann
Time: March 15, 2010, 12:35 am

To get repeat business, keep a detailed database of all your past customers’ addresses, email addresses, etc. so you can send out quarterly messages advertising your new creations. Or you could direct them to your website for a 10% off coupon, free shipping, or some other incentive. Quarterly advertising via email is cheap! Of course you should allow the recipient to “opt out” of emails.

Comment from Heather
Time: March 15, 2010, 11:04 am

I should have thought more about how to answer questions like custom sewing, and wholesale.

Comment from Stefani
Time: March 15, 2010, 1:13 pm

I think it’s very important to specialize. Even if you are making something that others make in general, make your version in YOUR style, that hopefully no one has seen before.

And have fun! I love the creative side, the business side – I live & breathe all of it. I work hard but it doesn’t feel like work, not for a minute.

Comment from Sheri
Time: March 15, 2010, 1:24 pm

I currently don’t have my own business but am looking in to it. The podcast was very informative. Thanks for doing it.

Sheri from KY

Comment from Verity
Time: March 15, 2010, 3:50 pm

I would have told myself not to be shy about talking about my work, and my ambitions with others (or to assume that they wouldn’t be interested)… after all, it’s what I love doing, something that I really want to talk about and, it has led to amazing opportunities, assistance with things like sourcing materials and connecting with like minded people!

Comment from Andrea
Time: March 15, 2010, 4:42 pm

Yeah – I was so excited when i opened iTunes and a new Craftsanity downloaded!

Although Made by Mauk is just a little side project, I would like to develop it into more in the coming year. Something I learned thus far is that you need to believe in your stuff and your pricing – don’t let the comments from people who think everything should be priced like WalMart make you second guess the value of your work.

Comment from cari-jane
Time: March 15, 2010, 4:53 pm

This was a great episode! Thank you so much. I am just beginning to set up my own etsy shop – CraftSanity has been a huge inspiration to me – it is fantastic to hear about people getting on doing their own thing (you included Jennifer!). I have already ordered the book on the strength of your interview.

Comment from Rita Domingues
Time: March 15, 2010, 5:12 pm

Pricing, pricing… How can I put a price on something that gives me so much pleasure to make? But it has to be done, and it’s the hardest part… Anyway, I wish I had charged a bit more for some products, while offering free shipping… One thing is free shipping to Portugal or Europe, the other very different thing, is free shipping to the US…
If I don’t win the book, I’ll certainly gonna buy it!

Comment from Jennifer Herbert
Time: March 15, 2010, 5:26 pm

First off- Jennifer, your podcast is so wonderful- I am working my way back through all your shows, and am loving them! I really love the casual style- you get a lot out of your interviewees because you let your guests get comfortable, finish their thoughts, it never feels rushed.
I recently started my own hand made business- if at all possible, wear what you make always (or in your case, since you can’t possibly wear your looms- carry a bag you made on your loom for example) and have business cards handy. When someone compliments your products, be ready to let them know where it came from, and that they could have it too!

Comment from Lisa Ridgely
Time: March 16, 2010, 1:43 pm

So excited to see this episode!

I’m a freelance artist who does mostly custom work, so I’m coming from a little different angle than someone who makes and sells products. One great tip I’ve picked up for those like me – always keep producing work. If you don’t have custom orders to fulfill at that moment, then create pieces to add to your portfolio…which will, in turn, hopefully generate more custom orders, as well as develop your skills. Creating for your portfolio, to your own specifications, is also a good way to find/define your own artistic style.

Comment from Jennie
Time: March 16, 2010, 6:50 pm

Hey! Your show has often inspired me to just go for it! I’m getting ready for my first Craft Fair — what is it I’ll wish I had known?

Thanks!

“mamajen” –

Comment from kelli
Time: March 16, 2010, 7:09 pm

Be sure to value your time and price accordingly.

Comment from Nina Bunin
Time: March 16, 2010, 7:28 pm

I’m a painter and my work doesn’t stay the same. I’m always moving myself according to what my “muse” brings out. How in the world do I market THAT?

Jennifer, I’ve been listening to you from the beginning — and it’s been a delight to watch you grow in your own art & craft goals, as well as your running:-)

Comment from Hannah Slaughter
Time: March 16, 2010, 9:27 pm

I’m great at selling things in real life but not online… how do you market an online shop? does an Etsy shop diminish credibility or help it?

Comment from Leigh Anne Chapple
Time: March 17, 2010, 7:43 am

How do you decide how much to charge?

Comment from Teri
Time: March 17, 2010, 9:55 am

Great podcast, as always. Very informative. Learning how to focus has been tricky for me…I love so many crafts, it’s difficult for me to find my niche.

Comment from Theresa Merkling
Time: March 17, 2010, 10:50 am

I’ve loved the podcast. Kari – your story is so inspiring. Right now, I have an online scrapbook store, but I do bring it to crops. I love the idea of bringing in some etsy creators products to my line as my croppers would love some unique items. I’d consider selling my own work, but not sure if I can focus enough to get into production. Would love to read this book and learn more.

Comment from Michele
Time: March 17, 2010, 11:34 am

I have this book on hold for me at our library – but from the reviews I’ve read it looks like one I should own. My question is if you are just starting out, what is the best way to market your product? Also is it better to specialize in just one type of product when first starting out, or to offer a small selection of things?

Comment from Lydia
Time: March 17, 2010, 1:50 pm

Great timing on your podcast. My copy of Kari’s book just came in from Amazon. I have crafted as far back as I can remember. The one thing I wish I knew in the beginning was, I wish I had taken more pictures. A lot of people are visual learners and pictures are very important.

thanks again Jennifer for another inspirational podcast.

Comment from turtle
Time: March 17, 2010, 5:35 pm

To not be shy! Talk about what you do and visit small businesses in your area to see about them carrying your goods and always always always carry your business cards on you!

Comment from Errin
Time: March 17, 2010, 6:34 pm

I really enjoyed this podcast. My advice is to have a thick skin and be proud of what you are doing. Just because one shop doesn’t think that it is the right fit for them doesn’t mean the next shop won’t love it.
Thank you Jennifer for your hard work of putting together a wonderful podcast.

Comment from Rachel
Time: March 17, 2010, 7:27 pm

I work for a small business, a craft food business, and we sell our products at a price that is much higher than the grocery store. I find that it is much easier to make a sale when I spend a little time with customers, explaining what is unique and special about our products, making them appreciate what their money is buying them. In some ways, you are selling the story as much as the product.

Comment from Missy
Time: March 17, 2010, 9:40 pm

This was a very inspirational podcast! I got my copy of the book ready to read on a long plane ride – and to take notes! I am excited for your family’s new kitty, too! And I look forward to the next episode with Built By Wendy!!!!!

Comment from Kaye Prince
Time: March 18, 2010, 8:00 am

I’m in the middle of getting everything together to open my own Etsy shop, so I have a question. What would you recommend to a new seller in terms of pricing? I don’t want to price my “stuff” to low because then I’m not being paid what I should be for my time or materials, but I also don’t want to price to high because then I may not attract any potential buyers…I’m really at a loss when it comes to pricing.

Comment from Kaisa Miller
Time: March 18, 2010, 11:04 am

There are a lot of great tips here – thanks! I was wondering if anyone has advice on getting your work into local stores / specialty shops? I’m terrible at making the sales pitch for my own stuff!

Comment from Jen
Time: March 18, 2010, 11:21 am

My biggest question is about how to price. I’m a knitter and the work takes many, many hours sometimes, but I feel like there is a limit to how much a person will spend on something. I’m pretty sure I’m going to price too low, but also want to avoid pricing too high and have no idea what to use as a guideline.

Comment from Jennifer Lynch
Time: March 18, 2010, 3:56 pm

When I started selling my crafts, I overpriced my things. I had just left a decent-paying career, and I guess I had an inflated idea of what my time was worth. I found that I needed to lower the prices and understand that part of my compensation was doing something that I love to do!

Comment from Jennie
Time: March 18, 2010, 4:05 pm

I wish I’d understood the postal system better. I spent a lot of time in the first weeks of my business figuring out how to package things to ship them and standing in line at the post office.

Comment from Debbie
Time: March 18, 2010, 8:30 pm

Welcome back! I’ve missed our “visits”. I really need this book. ;)

Comment from Angela M.
Time: March 19, 2010, 12:28 am

I think it’s important to be considerate of yourself. Make sure everything you do is sustainable and worthwhile to you. Doing too much for too little gain hurts creativity and eventually leads to burn-out.

Comment from LaNette
Time: March 19, 2010, 1:00 am

Thanks for another wonderful podcast. Listening to Kari’s story was so inspiring…what an interesting life she has led! Like others have mentioned here, I have questions about pricing.

Comment from Cynthia Devening
Time: March 19, 2010, 8:40 am

I’m just getting started with actually putting my business into action, but this has been a work in progress for 10 years now( I do a lot of over thinking!)

My tips are remember its the journey, all the people you meet, and all the hard times you get through that are important. Try to pace yourself and enjoy the process.

Learn all you can and try not to get overwhelmed.

Something that I wish I would have done was find my style earlier, its still something I struggle with.

Thanks :)

Comment from megan
Time: March 19, 2010, 1:56 pm

Hi, I’ve started organizing a couple of craft markets in my city ~ they started small and the response was amazing! I’m looking to expand the markets, as the community seems ready to support local arts and crafts ~ in doing so, I’d love to see if I can get some sponsors to help make the event even more inticing and interactive. My question then is, what sort of things should I consider when putting together a marketing/ promo package to attract sponsors (both local and international – I’m based in Hong Kong)? Thanks so much!! Meg ;)

Comment from megan
Time: March 19, 2010, 1:58 pm

ugh – sorry for the spelling error!! obviously I meant, “enticing” – typing too fast!
meg ;P

Comment from Janelle
Time: March 19, 2010, 2:00 pm

This podcast was fascinating, and I really look forward to reading the book. My sister-in-law is just launching a studio/gallery type of business and this book will be perfect for her.

I’m sure you address this in the book, but I want more information about pricing.

I’m also curious about the originality factor. I’m a knitter, and knitters talk about “unventing” techniques all the time. I think a lot of knitters get stuck thinking that what they do isn’t original “enough” to publish or to charge money for. (Maybe other artists, too?) If you take a stitch pattern out of a dictionary and put it on a sock, is that design? What if you have to change the pattern a little bit? Or a lot? What if (after you’ve done it) you see someone else has already taken that stitch pattern and put it on a sock? How different should yours be? These are details that swirl around my brain!

Thanks for such a detailed and interesting interview, Jennifer and Kari.

Comment from Pamela
Time: March 19, 2010, 4:36 pm

Thanks Kari! Loved hearing about Muddys and Claire both of which I know. What is a good way to present flat collages, as prints or as originals. What is a cheap way to frame art?

Thanks, Pamela

Comment from Jennifer Maroney
Time: March 20, 2010, 9:45 pm

Hi! Great conversation Jennifer and Kari! I guess what I would like to know is how to get more traffic to my Etsy store and to keep building up my exposure to new audiences? Happy Spring!

Comment from Karen K
Time: March 21, 2010, 8:48 am

As an owner of a bricks and mortar shop, I can tell you that customer service is the most important thing. Whether its online or in person, if people like you, they will buy from you. Occasionally throwing in a little freebie goes a very long way. it definitely increases sales!

Comment from Emily Lindberg
Time: March 21, 2010, 11:22 am

Hi Jennifer! I love your podcast and all the wonderful, interesting people you interview. It’s been such an amazing inspiration for me.

For the last 16 months or so, I’ve been living and working as a Small Business Development Peace Corps Volunteer in Morocco. Though I have a strong background in craft and a little background in retail art making (in my past life I was a retail caricature artist), I find myself in the unique position of having to teach other women how to run a successful craft business, even though I have never done so myself. Really I’m learning right along with them and it isn’t always easy. Podcasts like yours help me to think about important aspects of craft businesses, such as standing out from the crowd and branding yourself.

I still have about 8 months left and before I go home and I want the cooperative ladies to see that it IS possible to support themselves through their crafting. And after I return to the States, it’s my dream to start a craft business of my own, and it’s resources like blogs, podcasts, and books like Kari’s that will help make that happen.

Comment from Jenny
Time: March 21, 2010, 11:59 am

Hate to repeat, but my question is about pricing as well. I have sold a few items, but cringe if I ever do the math about how many hours it took. Technically I’m working at the wage rate of most third world countries. Where is the balance between putting value on your work and pricing yourself out of a given market?

Thanks so much!

Comment from Margie Di Croce
Time: March 26, 2010, 2:49 pm

This was a great podcast, I need to get that book for myself and a few friends. I discovered craft sanity recently, and I am really enjoy it. You do such a great job. Thanks for all the inspiration.

Comment from Laura Bethmann
Time: April 2, 2010, 11:14 pm

Couldn’t tear myself away from this interview. I just got back from a working visit to Storey Publishing – outlining my new book, etc, – and got a copy of Handmade Marketplace there. It’s a unique and valuable book for Everyone in this field of making and selling crafts. As for advice, it seems all the questions above are covered in Kari’s book. So, please, get her book! It will serve you well.

Comment from Kendra
Time: April 10, 2010, 7:36 pm

Fantastic interview! Thank you for this wonderful podcast! I haven’t listened to any craft podcasts before today and now I wonder how I was surviving without this valuable resource.
Kari talked about the importance of community in creating a successful craft business and I feel just as strongly on this topic. Being inclusive is the only way to be! Other Etsy sellers and my customers have provided me with so many ideas, insight and support. I am always grateful and always ready to reciprocate.
I was impressed by Kari’s life story. So much experience and passion! I also admire her impulsive, yet confident and bold decisions to, for example, put her interviewer on the spot and demand to know if she got the job! Knowing what you want is the lesson that I learned from her story. She knows what she wants and from there organizes herself with vision boards and lists, one step at a time until she gets there. Thank you for showing me how this can be done and offering me this vision of how to accomplish my goals without overwhelming myself. Everyone I know on Etsy is always talking about needing to re-balance their lives. I feel very hopeful that some answers can be found inside this inspired book! Great work, Kari! Great podcast, Jennifer! Thank you both :)

Comment from Angie
Time: April 15, 2010, 4:17 am

This was the first time I have listened to your podcast, and I loved it! Subscribe.

I am in the process of getting my crafty business off the ground, and I have found the hardest part is figuring out all the little steps. It would be great to have someone tell me what I need to do, and in what order.

Pingback from Emilie Rebekah Designs » Blog Archive » Loving: Craft Sanity Podcasts
Time: June 9, 2010, 7:19 pm

[...] Today it’s all about inspiration. Get inspired by listening to any (and I mean any) of the podcasts from Jennifer Ackerman Haywood’s Craft Sanity Blog. A favorite: Kari Chapin’s interview about running a craft business. [...]